Accidents With Commercial Vehicles: What To Understand
Posted on: 10 November 2020
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When a wreck with a careless driver puts you in the hospital, who caused the accident may not be of immediate concern. Accidents with commercial vehicles are different than those with private vehicles, though. Read on to learn more about what to expect when a business is involved and at fault in a motor vehicle accident.
Deep Pockets and Liability
If you can prove that a commercial vehicle driver was responsible for the wreck and your injuries, you may be facing a situation that can be both good and bad. As far as the good goes, many businesses have coverage for the work vehicles driven by their employees. Even if it was the employee that caused the accident. It is the insurance on the vehicle itself that is used to pay victims. It goes without saying that these companies, no matter the size, are responsible for their vehicles and employees.
Another contributing factor is the so-called "deep-pockets" factor when dealing with large, well-known companies. Big companies like UPS and others have more than enough resources to pay settlements to accident victims. They usually don't allow things to come to court since that might create bad publicity for the company and that can prompt a fast, easy, and valuable settlement.
As far as the bad part goes, these companies can also afford to fight cases that might have no merit. Most businesses of any size have insurance and it is the insurer that may decide to challenge the claims of fault or damages. If you go up against a deep-pockets company, you should have an unassailable case showing that the other driver caused the accident and solid proof of your damages.
When Punitive Damages Happen
Another unique aspect of an accident with a commercial vehicle is the potential for the judge to impose additional penalties on the business. Particularity for businesses that are known for having vehicles on the road, punitive damages may be ordered to set an example for other businesses to ensure their employees are better trained to avoid accidents. Also, some businesses base their models on driving practices that could cause wrecks. For example, a business might fire a driver who fails to make enough deliveries during a given period. Accident victims cannot ask for punitive damages, which may be double or triple your other losses. Instead, the judge may add them onto a lawsuit.
When it's you against a big company, don't go it alone. Contact a personal injury law firm and have your case evaluated.