What damages can I recover in a delivery truck accident? You can recover various damages in a delivery truck accident, including medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, wrongful death benefits, and other unexpected out-of-pocket costs related to the accident.
An experienced Las Vegas delivery truck accident lawyer will help you get the compensation you deserve so you can move forward.
Potential Economic Damages in a Delivery Truck Accident
These are the losses that affect your finances directly. They include the money you have already spent, or will need to spend, because of the crash.
Medical Bills
You can get reimbursed for doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, rehab, and any other medical costs related to the accident. If you will need care in the future, those costs may be included too.
Lost Wages
If you had to miss work while recovering, you can ask for the money you would have earned. If you can not return to the same job, or any job, you may be able to get more to cover lost future income.
Car and Property Damage
If your car was damaged or totaled in the crash, you can ask for the cost of repairs or replacement. The same goes for other personal items that were damaged in the crash, like your phone or laptop.
Non-Economic Damages You May Recover in a Delivery Truck Accident
These damages do not come with a receipt, but they can impact your life just as much, if not more, than financial losses:
- Pain and Suffering: Accidents can cause a lot of physical pain. If your injuries have made daily life harder, you can get money for that suffering.
- Mental or Emotional Stress: A crash with a large truck can be scary and upsetting. Some people deal with anxiety, fear, or even post-traumatic stress afterward. These effects matter and can be part of your claim.
- Loss of Enjoyment: If you can not do things you used to enjoy, like playing sports, walking your dog, or spending time with your kids, you may be able to recover damages for that change in your lifestyle.
- Permanent Scars or Injuries: If the crash left you with a visible scar or life-long injury, you may also be able to get compensation for how that affects your confidence and daily life.
How Out-of-Pocket Costs Can Be Part of Your Recovery
Not every financial loss fits neatly into categories like medical bills or property damage. After a crash, you may find yourself spending money in unexpected ways. These out-of-pocket costs are recoverable, too.
You may be able to recover for:
- Transportation costs, like rideshares to doctor appointments or rental cars while yours is in the shop
- Necessary home or vehicle modifications, such as ramps, handrails, or lifts, if your injuries affect mobility
- Medical supplies, including crutches, wheelchairs, braces, or over-the-counter items recommended by your doctor
- Childcare or household help, if your injuries prevent you from handling daily responsibilities
Even small expenses can add up quickly. Make sure to keep all your receipts and records so your attorney can include them in your claim.
What You are Entitled to if a Delivery Truck Accident Causes a Wrongful Death
In the most tragic cases, a delivery truck crash can result in the loss of a loved one. If that happens, certain family members may be entitled to wrongful death damages. These help cover both financial losses and emotional grief. Possible wrongful death damages include:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Medical bills from before your loved one passed
- Loss of future income and benefits
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support
While no amount of money can undo the pain, a wrongful death claim can ease the financial burden and hold those responsible accountable.
Why Delivery Truck Accidents Can Affect the Value of Your Claim
The more complex the case, the harder it is to get full compensation. There is often more than one person or company involved, and more than one insurance policy, which can affect what damages you can recover in a delivery truck accident.
More Than One Person Could Be At Fault
In some cases, the truck driver made a mistake. However, the company that owns the truck may also be to blame. Maybe they skipped safety inspections or did not load the cargo correctly.
Sometimes, even a third party, like a repair shop or shipping service, shares responsibility. Working with a qualified attorney will help you know who is liable in a commercial truck accident.
Nevada’s Comparative Negligence Law
Nevada uses comparative negligence law, which means that if you are less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages, but they will be reduced by the percentage of liability that you have. This can further complicate your case.
Big Insurance Policies Can Be Hard to Deal With
Delivery truck companies usually carry large insurance policies. That sounds like a good thing, but their insurance companies often fight hard to avoid paying. They might try to blame you, downplay your injuries, or offer a small settlement quickly to minimize what damages you can recover after a delivery truck accident.
Their Legal Team Will Be Ready, You Should Be Too
Going up against a trucking company often means going up against their lawyers, too. Their job is to protect the company, not to help you. That is why having your own Las Vegas truck accident lawyer is key to recovering the full amount you deserve.
Mistakes that Could Hurt Your Chances of Recovering Damages
Even if your case is strong, certain missteps can lower the value of your claim or stop you from recovering damages at all.
Talking to the Other Insurance Company
They might seem polite, but they are not on your side. If you say something like “I am fine” or “I am sorry,” it can be used against you later. Let your lawyer speak on your behalf.
Accepting the First Offer Too Soon
The first settlement offer is often way too low. It might cover your current bills, but it likely will not cover everything, like future care or lost earning potential. Once you accept, you usually can not go back and ask for more.
Waiting Too Long to File a Claim
In Nevada, you only have a limited time to file a personal injury claim. If you miss the deadline, you might lose your right to compensation altogether. It is best to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible to protect your case.
Contact H&P Law for a Free Consultation
If you would like to know what damages you can recover in a delivery truck crash, do not wait to get help. You may be facing extensive medical bills, missed work, and lasting pain. Our team of experienced attorneys is ready to listen and explain your options at no cost to you.
Call H&P Law today or use our contact form to set up your free consultation. We are here to help you take the next step forward.
