Two Trucking Accidents End With Large Settlements

On behalf of Lovett Law Firm posted in Truck Accidents on Friday, June 28, 2013.

Truck accidents can have catastrophic consequences for their victims. Because large trucks carry so much weight and take up so much space, the potential for destruction is that much greater when compared to crashes between smaller vehicles. When trucking accidents happen due to the negligence of the truck drivers, the costs can be great for the driver and the company.

Two lawsuits against trucking companies responsible for hauling water to hydraulic fracturing sites have recently been settled, costing a total of over $11 and a half million. The first of those accidents took place back in June of 2011, when a semitrailer blocked the right of way on a state highway near Carthage, causing a motorist to crash into the truck, which had apparently stopped on the road without turn signals or flashing lights.

As a result of the accident, the man was no longer able to financially support his wife and young daughter, due to injuries sustained in the accident. His settlement came in at $8.7 million, possibly the largest lawsuit settlement in the history of Panola County.

The second settlement involved an accident that took place back in September of 2011. A driver from Phillips Trucking, reportedly attempted an illegal U-turn, causing a collision that ultimately caused brain damage to a 32-year-old motorist who broadsided the tractor-trailer.

That case settled $3 million, the maximum payout available from the trucking firm’s insurance carrier. Those who are involved in such accidents often live with their injuries for the rest of their lives. Receiving compensation may not take away the suffering involved dealing with catastrophic injuries, but it can help victims support their families and offset medical costs.

Source: Truckinginfo.com, “Two Texas Truck Wreck Lawsuits Settled for $11.7 Million,” June 27, 2013.