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(512) 910-2000Written by TK Injury Lawyers, reviewed by Trent Kelly on August 24, 2023
Truck accidents are often more complex than typical vehicle accidents because of the size and weight of the trucks and the various regulations governing the trucking industry. But once the initial shock wears off, many accident victims’ primary concern is, “How long will it take to resolve my truck accident case?” Our legal team presents an overview of the estimated timeline for a truck accident case in Austin, Texas.
The initial phase immediately after the accident is critical. It involves seeking medical treatment, reporting the accident to the police, and notifying your insurance company. Documenting everything at this stage, including injuries and property damage, is vital. Some victims might consider contacting an attorney during this phase, especially if the injuries are severe or if there’s a dispute about the accident’s cause.
In collaboration with experts, your attorney will conduct an in-depth investigation to establish fault and determine the extent of damages. This phase involves collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, examining trucking logs, and possibly reconstructing the accident. Gathering medical records and documentation of lost wages can also take time.
Once sufficient evidence has been gathered, your attorney will typically approach the at-fault party’s insurance company with a demand letter outlining your case and the compensation you seek. The insurance company may respond with a counteroffer. This back-and-forth negotiation can stretch over weeks or even months. Many issues are settled during this phase without going to trial.
You may need to file a lawsuit if a satisfactory agreement isn’t reached during negotiations. Once the suit is filed, there’s a discovery period where both sides exchange information. Depositions, or sworn testimonies, are taken from all involved parties, including the victim, the truck driver, and witnesses. Depending on the case’s complexity, this phase can last several months.
Before the case goes to trial, both parties might engage in mediation, where a neutral third party helps facilitate a settlement discussion. If successful, a problem can be avoided. This process can take a few days to a couple of months.
If all attempts at resolution fail, the case will proceed to trial. The trial might only last a few days to numerous weeks, but getting a court date and waiting for the trial’s conclusion can significantly extend the timeline. Due to court backlogs and complexities of truck accident cases in Austin, waiting for difficulty can sometimes take over a year.
In Austin, a truck accident case timeline can range from a few months to several years, depending on its complexities and various factors. While it’s natural to want a quick resolution, it’s essential to prioritize a thorough and fair settlement. An Austin truck accident attorney from TK Injury Lawyers can help navigate the process more efficiently and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Trent Kelly obtained his law degree from the University of Arkansas in 2007. He is licensed to practice law in Texas and regularly assists clients with their legal matters. Trent’s practice is primarily focused on personal injury matters – particularly those involving motor vehicles (such as cars, commercial trucks, 18-wheelers, and motorcycles) and wrongful death – but he also handles various business litigation matters as well. Click here to take a look at some complex cases Trent has resolved.
Years of experience: +15 years
Location: Austin, TX
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