Truck accidents often result in severe injuries, leaving victims with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and uncertainty about their financial future.
Many individuals search for an “average truck accident settlement in Texas” to estimate their potential compensation.
However, there is no fixed average settlement amount for these cases because each claim is unique.
The severity of injuries, liability disputes, and available insurance coverage all influence potential payouts.
In this guide, our experienced El Paso, Texas truck accident lawyers explain why online calculators fail to provide accurate estimates, how settlements are determined, and which factors impact truck accident compensation in Texas.
For a free, no-obligation consultation, please don’t hesitate to call (575) 222-1000 or fill out our online form today.
Can You Calculate an Average Truck Accident Settlement in Texas?
It is difficult to pinpoint an exact commercial vehicle accident settlement in Texas because truck accident cases vary significantly. Some claims resolve for tens of thousands of dollars, while others reach multi-million-dollar verdicts.
To provide a general idea:
- Minor injuries—compensation often ranges between $20,000 and $100,000, covering medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering;
- Moderate injuries—cases involving surgeries or long-term rehabilitation may settle between $100,000 and $500,000; and
- Severe or catastrophic injuries—claims exceeding $500,000, sometimes reaching millions, are common when victims suffer life-altering disabilities or fatalities.
Each case has distinct elements affecting value. Relying on generalized figures can lead to unrealistic expectations. Seeking legal counsel offers a more accurate estimate based on case-specific factors.
What Factors Affect a Truck Accident Settlement?
Several elements determine truck accident compensation, influencing a victim’s total payout.
Severity of Injuries
Compensation increases when injuries result in:
- Spinal cord damage or paralysis,
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs),
- Amputations, or
- Severe burns or disfigurement.
Medical costs, rehabilitation expenses, and long-term disabilities impact settlement values. Individuals facing lifelong impairments typically receive higher compensation.
Liability and Comparative Negligence
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that if a victim shares responsibility for an accident, compensation decreases based on their percentage of fault. Those found more than 50% responsible cannot recover damages. Therefore, establishing liability is essential in 18-wheeler accident settlements to secure full compensation.
Economic vs. Noneconomic Damages
A truck accident settlement includes two primary types of damages:
- Economic—medical expenses, lost wages, ongoing treatment, and property repairs; and
- Noneconomic—pain and suffering, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
If a trucking company acted with gross negligence, such as violating safety regulations, courts may award punitive damages to penalize the at-fault party. These additional amounts significantly increase total settlements.
Insurance Policy Limits
Texas requires commercial trucks to carry high insurance coverage.
Minimum liability requirements include:
- $750,000 for most commercial vehicle accident settlements, and
- Up to $5 million for hazardous material transporters.
If damages exceed policy limits, attorneys may pursue additional compensation from multiple liable parties, including truck manufacturers or maintenance providers.
Strength of Evidence and Legal Representation
Successful claims rely on strong evidence, including:
- Police reports,
- Witness statements,
- Medical records,
- Expert testimony, and
- Black box data and trucking logs.
The right legal team ensures thorough investigations and negotiates aggressively for full compensation. Without proper representation, victims risk settling for less than they deserve.
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Truck Accident Case?
The duration of an 18-wheeler accident settlement depends on:
- The severity of injuries and required medical treatment,
- Whether liability is contested,
- The cooperation of insurance companies, and
- Whether litigation becomes necessary.
Most cases resolve within a few months to two years. However, disputes over liability or extensive medical treatment often extend timelines.
Factors That Speed Up a Truck Accident Settlement
Some truck accident cases resolve faster than others.
Several factors that can contribute to a quicker resolution include:
- Clear liability. Insurers may offer a settlement rather than risk litigation when strong evidence establishes fault.
- Maximum medical improvement (MMI). Once a victim completes treatment, the full extent of damages can be assessed, allowing for accurate compensation calculations.
- Cooperative insurers. When an insurance company is willing to negotiate in good faith, settlements can be reached more efficiently.
Although these factors can speed up the process, victims should still be cautious about accepting the first settlement offer. Insurers often attempt to settle quickly for less than the claim is truly worth. Consulting a lawyer helps ensure fair compensation.
Factors That Slow Down a Truck Accident Settlement
Not all cases resolve quickly. Delays can be frustrating, but they are often necessary to secure the compensation a victim truly needs.
Common reasons for extended settlement timelines include:
- Liability disputes. Trucking companies frequently challenge fault, prolonging negotiations.
- Severe injuries. When a victim faces long-term medical care or permanent disability, settlement discussions often take longer to account for future damages.
- Trial proceedings. If an insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, taking the case to court may be necessary, adding months or even years to the process.
While delays can be difficult, they are sometimes unavoidable when fighting for fair compensation. A strong legal strategy ensures victims do not settle for less than they deserve, even if negotiations take time.
Why Hiring a Lawyer Matters in a Truck Accident Case
Online tools may claim to estimate truck accident compensation, but they fail to consider case-specific factors.
An attorney offers crucial assistance by:
- Investigating the accident and gathering evidence,
- Calculating the true value of damages,
- Negotiating aggressively with insurers, and
- Pursuing litigation if necessary.
Trucking companies and their insurers work to minimize payouts. Victims risk settling for less than their claim is worth without legal guidance. Let our experienced truck accident attorneys help you get every dollar you deserve.
Contact Tawney, Acosta & Chaparro P.C. for a Free Consultation
After a truck accident settlement in Texas, the right legal team makes all the difference.
At Tawney, Acosta & Chaparro P.C., our attorneys fight for maximum compensation for injured clients. We have extensive experience handling 18-wheeler accident settlements across Texas, securing results for those facing medical expenses, lost income, and long-term suffering.
Holding negligent parties accountable is our priority. Do not let an insurance company undervalue your claim.
Call (575) 222-1000 or reach us online today for a free consultation, and let us fight for the compensation you deserve
Alejandro Acosta
Mr. Acosta is a lifelong resident of El Paso. He graduated from Cathedral High School in 2000 and graduated from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio in 2004. Mr. Acosta went on to attend Sandra Day O’ Connor College of Law (Arizona State Law School). He graduated in 2008, receiving his J.D. and his Indian Legal Certificate for his work in Indian Law and dealings with various tribal nations throughout Arizona. Alejandro has been licensed to practice law in Texas since 2008 and has been licensed in the State of New Mexico since 2011.
Rate this Post
Loading...