When cars collide with commercial trucks on the road, the resulting damage can be immense. The sheer size and weight of semi-trucks and tractor-trailers create an increased risk of serious bodily injury and death to all those involved in the crash. In addition, the accident could result in the partial or total destruction of the vehicles.
If you are involved in a collision with a tractor-trailer, speaking with a Cape May County truck accident lawyer may be beneficial for many reasons. A compassionate personal injury attorney could help you determine whether you have a viable claim against one or more parties involved in the crash as well as what kind of compensation you might be able to receive.
Obtaining Compensation after a Local Truck Crash
Most truck accidents in Cape May County occur because of human error. When truck drivers, trucking companies, or truck manufacturers make mistakes that lead to an accident, those who were injured or who suffered property damage have the right to recover compensation for their losses. An injured person may do this by filing a claim with the negligent party’s insurance carrier or by filing a civil lawsuit against him or her. Deciding which avenue to pursue may be difficult, as there are pros and cons to both. For this reason, it is best to consult with a local lawyer before making a decision.
Insurance Claims
Insurance claims are typically processed more quickly, resulting in faster payouts to claimants. However, the amount of money awarded through insurance claims is capped at the party’s insurance policy limit. This means that insurance claim payouts might not be enough to cover an accident victim’s total losses, especially if serious bodily injury, death, or complete vehicle destruction occurs.
Personal Injury Lawsuit
Because lawsuits take time to develop and litigate, these actions tend to be more drawn-out than insurance claims. This means that a person might not receive compensation as quickly. However, because the amount of damages that a person could be awarded is not dictated by insurance policy limits, this type of action could procure a fuller compensation for his or her losses.
A local truck collision lawyer could help a plaintiff understand the benefits and drawbacks of pursuing either action in his or her particular case.
Recoverable Damages in Commercial Vehicle Accident Cases
People injured in commercial vehicle accidents who file a lawsuit could receive many types of compensation to cover their losses. New Jersey law generally permits claimants to recover compensatory damages to cover the actual costs sustained because of the accident, both economic and non-economic. Recoverable compensatory damages include, but are not limited to:
- Costs of past and future medical bills
- Rehabilitative costs
- Lost wages
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs
- Loss of consortium or enjoyment of life
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
In rare circumstances, New Jersey also allows a person to recover punitive damages. Punitive damages are designed to punish and deter defendants, and all others, from engaging in the same harmful activity in the future. To be awarded punitive damages in truck accident cases, plaintiff must prove that the defendant either acted maliciously or willfully or wantonly disregarded others’ safety, such as driving while drunk.
An experienced truck wreck attorney in Cape May County could assess a person’s case and help them determine what types of compensation they should seek relief for.
Schedule an Appointment with a Cape May County Truck Accident Attorney
Truck accidents have the potential to cause catastrophic harm to drivers. If you were injured in this type of collision, you should speak with a Cape May County truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. Our team could explain your options for pursuing compensation and guide you through the complicated claims process. Contact us today to book an introductory appointment.
Testimonials
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This team is incredible. They are friendly and knowledgeable. I appreciate everything they have done for me and would recommend them to anyone. Overall great experience
Testimonial from Paul D. -
My case settled recently after lasting 4 years. Grungo and Colarulo’s law firm were able to secure a large settlement award for my slip and fall accident. This money will help secure my future for the permanent injury I received as a result of the slip and fall. Everyone was very caring, and kept me informed throughout the entire process. Christine Lafferty is an excellent litigation lawyer. I highly recommend using them if you have been injured or in an accident. I hope I am never in a situation again to need their services, but I know who to go to if I, or any of my family members are ever injured. Thanks Grungo and Colarulo and staff for your compassionate service!
Testimonial from Pamela A. -
Thank you so much Grungo and Colarulo for helping me with my case. Special thanks to Erica Domingo, Esquire and her team. Erica Domingo and her team was very nice and helped me tremendously throughout my case like more than one year and half. They gave me the right advice and guided me through every step of my case. They gave me prompt and clear responses to all my questions. In addition, Erica and her team provided me with all the what if scenarios so that I can have a clear vison of the steps ahead.
I would definitely recommend Grungo and Colarulo.
Thanks again Erica Domingo, Esquire and her team
Testimonial from Ahmed A. -
My wife and I reached out to Grungo Colarulo in 2020 for advise on a legal matter. After a meeting with the Attorney and Paralegal, we decided to go forward with a case. This case required a lot of documentation, and expert review of the documentation which was aquired. Throughout the process, we were kept up to date monthly, and Grungo Colarulo was always responsive to any questions that we had. The entire staff at Grungo Colarulo are very professional, caring, and willing to go the extra mile. This firm is a definite recommend!
Testimonial from Patrick G. -
I left five (5) stars only because that’s as many as I could leave. If I could, I would have left 100 stars. Bob & Christine are the absolute best! My settlement far exceeded what I ever imagined. They are professional, friendly, and really listened to what I had to say. They kept me up to date with the progress of my case every step of the way. I can’t recommend them highly enough.
Testimonial from Sheila L. -
Very professional, communicates well, makes me feel like they have my best interest at heart, and overall just a great company. Christine and the whole team has been on top of everything. Would definitely recommend!! 10/10
Testimonial from Michael M. -
First and foremost I would like to thank the whole team at Grungo Colarulo!! In addition to that, Stephanie & Riley & Drenna have done such an outstanding job taking care of me in such a difficult and low point of my life. I was in a bad car accident & did not know how to move forward with what to do and how to process. Those ladies were there every step, every inch, every mile & beyond with helping me when I had no idea how to navigate. I will forever be thankful for them and for the outcome of my case! If you ever need assistance I highly recommend this practice!!! Beyond professional, helpful, precise, caring, knowledgeable & humble!!!
Testimonial from Rachel F. -
From my first phone call to the end of my case this firm was on the ball!! Always responsive and professional and kept me up to date and informed. This is my firm for any future needs!
Testimonial from Jeffrey F. -
This was my first time ever having to have a lawyer for an automobile accident. From the beginning they took care of everything. They put me at ease so I could concentrate on my medical needs. Everyone I spoke to during the process were always extremely pleasant and knowledgeable.
Thank you to Grungo Colarulo for representing me and getting the settlement you did to help me move forward. I would highly recommend Grungo Colarulo to anyone who wants outstanding legal representation.Testimonial from Pat G. -
This team has been nothing but gentle an generous. Being as this was my first time dealing with a worker’s compensation case I was lost and nervous. But the Grungo Colarulo team has made me feel as comfortable as possible. My needs were addressed with care in a timely fashion. I knew what was going on every step of the way.
Oh, did I mention, WE WON …This teams knowledge of the industry is TOP NOTCH!
Testimonial from Aminah M. -
A dear family friend referred us to a young attorney named Rich Grungo, Jr. We wanted answers and if necessary, justice for our father. From day one of a five-year journey, Mr. Rich Grungo, Jr. made our family and our pain his own. The man never stopped working for us. He kept us informed every step of the way. Questions were answered quickly and with great compassion and expertise. Even though Rich was always busy, he was never too busy for us. We always felt like we were his only clients
Testimonial from Mickey -
I had the opportunity to observe Mr. Grungo work in this case, both in the courtroom on the technical matters of the motions and also as his presentation to the jury in opening and presenting witnesses as well as utilizing animations… and drawings and films that were necessary for a proper understanding of the case…At all times during the presentation, Mr. Grungo operated mostly without notes and questioned the witnesses in a conversational manner which made it most effective. **
New Jersey Superior Court Judge Testimonial -
Thank you for everything. I honestly felt like you treated my son like he was your own son, for that I am grateful. I would recommend your services to anyone. Thanks for being so awesome to both of us.
Testimonial from HD -
It was a pleasure working with Bill. He constantly kept me informed. I would recommend Bill and his firm to anybody I know. They’ll be in good hands.
Testimonial from Gregory -
I had the opportunity to retain Mr. Colarulo for a vehicle accident I encountered. I give him my highest recommendation for anyone in need of an excellent Personal Injury Attorney. Not only does he have an in depth knowledge of the legal field, but he emanates a sense of trust-worthiness that makes you feel secure during the entire process. Mr. Colarulo has the knowledge, drive and enthusiasm that will get the job done for you. He comes highly recommended.
Testimonial from Denise -
Hi Rich, Well I’m on my way up to college to finish packing my son’s stuff up and to go to his Graduation tomorrow. It’s hard to believe how fast and how slow, at the same time 5 years can go by. I was just thinking of you as I am getting ready to leave and wanted to thank you once again for everything you have done for my son’s future. You are a good and just man. God Bless to you and your family.
Be Well,
Testimonial from Bob
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