An 18-wheeler colliding with a passenger vehicle can inflict devastating and long-lasting harm. If you have been involved in this type of accident and sustained severe injuries as a result, you may have legal grounds to seek compensation. In order to be successful in truck accident settlements in Columbus, you may wish to speak with a knowledgeable attorney. Our team of skilled truck accident lawyers will ensure you do not settle for an unfair settlement offer and can will by your side in trial if necessary.
Factors that Can Impact a Columbus Truck Collision Settlement
There are a wide variety of factors that could impact the value of someone’s settlement after a truck wreck in Columbus. One of these factors is whether there are one or multiple parties against whom the injured individual is filing a claim for damages. Failing to file a claim against the correct defendant could result in a reduced settlement award.
Another significant factor that can impact a settlement is Ohio’s statute of limitations, found under Ohio Revised Code § 2305.10. This law requires that any lawsuit for a personal injury claim be filed within two years of the date that the incident occurs. So, if someone waits more than two years after a truck crash to pursue a claim for compensation, the defendant’s insurers can refuse to compensate the claimant.
The extent of the claimant’s injuries also impacts the settlement award. For example, if a plaintiff’s catastrophic injuries require extensive long-term care, such as physical therapy and other treatment, and require that the person take considerable length of time off work, they could seek compensation for past and future medical bills and lost wages.
A person who suffers only very minor injuries in a truck accident and incurs a lesser financial loss might not be entitled to the same amount of compensation they would if more serious injuries and damages were sustained. Our local attorneys can review your case to help determine what types and amounts of damages you may be entitled; property damage, pain, suffering, and other losses.
Can You File a Truck Wreck Lawsuit After Accepting a Settlement Offer?
This is a common question that arises in the context of truck crash settlements in Columbus. Generally, once the case is settled a lawsuit cannot be filed regarding the same claim. They are very rare instances where it may be possible to initiate legal proceedings after a case has been settled. The reason for this, is that when someone settles their claim they sign a release which means that the negligent truck driver is no longer legally responsible for the damages.
However, if a claim was settled with one liable party (such as the truck driver), but another party is identified as bearing legal responsibility for the claimant’s damages, it may be possible to initiate separate legal proceedings against that individual or entity.
Ask Our Attorneys About Truck Accident Settlements in Columbus
Our team of attorneys will answer any additional questions you may have about truck accident settlements in Columbus. If you believe you may have a valid claim for damages, it is vital not to delay in seeking competent legal representation to handle your claim. Reach out to our office today to book a confidential legal consultation and find out more about pursuing financial compensation for your injuries.
