Car accidents involving commercial motor vehicles (CMV), often result in significant damage and serious injuries. Beyond the physical devastation and severe implications, victims also face prolonged battles for compensation, leading to financial strain from mounting bills.
Getting through these lawsuits requires more than having a great attorney; exploring your options for financial support can make a big difference during this time. With expert legal help and the right financial solutions, you can recover without the weight of financial worries slowing you down.
Understanding Commercial Vehicle Accidents and Their Impact
Commercial vehicles are those registered to businesses, not individuals, and include everything from small delivery vans to large semi-trucks used to transport goods. They also encompass of buses, shuttles, coaches, and other automobiles that carry passengers for a fee.
CMV’s often tip the scales at more than 10,001 pounds, as per the Motor Carrier Safety Act of 1984, making them giants compared to regular cars. Because of their size, these vehicles must follow stricter regulations than lighter, privately owned cars for personal use. Any accidents involving these heavy-hitters can lead to serious, sometimes catastrophic consequences.
Over the years, legislative updates in each jurisdiction have continued to refine these standards for safety and accountability in commercial transport.
Causes Behind Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Accidents involving commercial motor vehicles can happen for several reasons, each affecting victims uniquely:
- Driver Error. Tiredness, distractions, or reckless driving are frequently the cause to these accidents.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance. Skipping regular checks can result in mechanical problems that contribute to these crashes.
- Weather Conditions. Bad weather such as rain, snow, or fog makes driving these large vehicles more hazardous.
- Overloading. Overloading can make it difficult to steer the vehicle, increasing the chance of an accident.
- Lack of Experience. Drivers without proper training might make poor decisions on the road.
- Unsecured Cargo. If cargo isn’t properly secured, it can shift during transport and cause the vehicle to become unstable.
When Does a Commercial Vehicle Accident Lead to a Lawsuit?
The aftermath of a commercial vehicle accident can be life-changing, typically resulting in severe injuries or the loss of a loved one. If you’re thinking about taking legal action, here are key factors to consider:
- Negligence. Was the accident caused by careless actions, like a driver breaking traffic rules? A big part of these cases is proving reckless behavior. For example, if a truck driver is found to have been speeding or not following rest requirements, this could be grounds for a lawsuit.
- Liability. Commercial vehicle drivers employed by companies aren’t the only ones who can be blamed for the accident. The manufacturers of the vehicle or its parts, and even loading companies might share the fault if their actions (or inactions) also led to the crash. However, if the driver is an independent contractor, determining liability can be more complicated.
- Harm Suffered. For a personal injury lawsuit to be viable, you’ll need to show you were harmed, whether that’s through injuries, property damage, or emotional stress. The more severe the damages, the stronger the case for a lawsuit.
- Evidence. Strong cases are built on solid evidence, like accident scene photos, witness accounts, or records showing rule violations by the driver.
- Violation of Federal Regulations. Commercial vehicles must follow a range of federal regulations, from weight restrictions to mandatory rest periods for drivers. If an investigation reveals that these were violated, like overloading or insufficient driver rest, it could be grounds for a lawsuit.
Financial Implications of Commercial Vehicle Crashes
If you find yourself injured in an accident involving a commercial vehicle, you’re likely facing not only physical recovery but also financial stress. Medical bills for treatments ranging from emergency care to long-term rehabilitation can quickly accumulate, especially when extended care or specialized equipment is necessary for recovery.
In addition to healthcare expenses, the inability to work post-accident introduces another layer of financial stress. This situation becomes even more troublesome if you were a primary provider. The loss can extend to future earnings if you can’t resume their previous occupation due to permanent injuries. Property damage also adds to the economic strain, which requires out-of-pocket expenses for repairs or replacements.
Beyond these, you might also be experiencing non-economic losses such as emotional distress and diminished quality of life. And while these aren’t directly measurable, they can still influence the settlements you claim in your lawsuit. If you have long-term care needs or ongoing health issues from the accident, you might also need to consider the costs associated with future medical treatments or accommodations, alongside potential increases in insurance premiums.
Securing a successful settlement can offer some relief by covering medical costs, compensating for lost wages, and providing for your future needs and the pain you suffered. However, this process is extremely complicated, which is why reliable legal and financial support is crucial during this time.
How Pre-Settlement Funding Offers Relief for Victims of Commercial Motor Vehicle Accidents.
Facing a commercial vehicle accident can lead not only to physical trauma, and disability but also to financial strain, especially if the injuries prevent you from working. Insurance companies may try to settle your case quickly for a lower amount than what you truly deserve, leaving you struggling to cover your expenses.
During this time, pre-settlement funding offers immediate financial relief by providing a portion of the anticipated settlement in advance. Also known as a lawsuit loan, this type of funding is designed to help individuals who are involved in legal battles due to accidents with commercial motor vehicles—like 18-wheelers, tractors, buses, and other heavy-duty vehicles—manage their financial obligations while their case is still pending.
Here’s how it works:
- Non-Recourse Loan. A commercial motor vehicle accident lawsuit loan is a non-recourse advance, meaning if you don’t win your lawsuit or receive a settlement, you aren’t required to repay the money you borrowed. This makes it a risk-free financial solution for you.
- Eligibility. To qualify for legal funding, you typically need to have an attorney representing you on a contingency basis, a strong case worth over $50,000 with clear liability against a commercial entity, and substantial damages or injuries.
- Application Process. Your attorney’s cooperation in providing case details is your key to quick funding approval, usually within 24 hours. The process involves your attorney submitting information about your case to Baker Street Funding. We then evaluate the strength and potential value of your lawsuit to determine the amount we can advance. Once approved, you and your attorney will obtain a legal funding contract to complete, with funds disbursed hours after contract completion.
- Use of Funds. You can use pre-settlement funding to cover any expenses you may accrue, such as medical expenses, living costs, rent or mortgage, and more.
Apply for Pre-Settlement Legal Funding Today.
When you’re involved in a commercial vehicle accident lawsuit and need financial support, Baker Street Funding has you covered. Our expert underwriters—specialized personal injury attorneys—work with your law firm to assess your case and decide on the funding amount within one business day.
With competitive rates, starting at 2.95% per month, with caps to prevent overcharging, even if your case extends beyond the capped period, our pre-settlement loans let you keep more of your settlement for your recovery and future needs.
Additionally, our commitment to non-recourse funding guarantees that if you don’t win your commercial vehicle accident case, you’re not obligated to repay Baker Street Funding.
Take the First Step Toward Financial Stability
Don’t let a commercial vehicle accident disrupt your financial well-being while your personal injury lawsuit is pending. With Baker Street Funding, help is fast and fair, so that you can focus on the things that matter the most to you, and reach a fair insurance settlement.
Apply for a car accident lawsuit loan today and take the first step toward securing the support you deserve. Prequalifying takes just a few minutes.