The losses victims of trucking accidents in the state of Louisiana face are often significant. If truck driver negligence is to blame, these losses are not anything that victims have to shoulder alone. Recently, it was reported that a Lake Charles man, who suffered injuries in a truck accident over two years ago, was able to successfully prove that the trucking company should be held liable for his losses. He was awarded $4.4 million in damages as a result.
On Sept. 4, 2017, the victim was operating his vehicle on a very busy Interstate 10. As he slowed to come to a stop due to traffic congestion, the driver of a tractor-trailer rear-ended his SUV, which caused him to hit a light pole. First responders were called to the scene, and the victim was transported to an area hospital with a seemingly minor head injury. He was treated and released. Two weeks later, another medical exam found extensive injuries to his whole body.
Trucking giant, Landstar, claimed the victim’s injuries were the result of previous accidents. It also claimed that the victim was at fault for several reasons. However, after about a week-long trial, the jury sided with the plaintiff in this case and awarded him compensation for his past and future medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It is unclear if Landstar is going to appeal.
It can be intimidating to go up against a big company when wanting to seek compensation for losses suffered in a truck accident. Thankfully, Lake Charles residents do not have to fight their battles for compensation alone. With the assistance of counsel, those injured in trucking accidents may be able to successfully hold truck drivers and their employers accountable for their losses. Sometimes, this requires going to court, as in the case discussed above, and sometimes, cases may be settled through out-of-court negotiations.