Our highways are full of large trucks. Unfortunately, there is no small 18-wheeler accident. If you are involved in an 18-wheeler accident, then consult a truck accident attorney. A wrongful death lawyer can assist those who have lost a loved one to a traffic accident.
Most accident cases are resolved through settlements, as insurance companies are reluctant to bear the costs of going to trial as well as the possible judgments that may result. When a victim proves their case by a preponderance of the evidence, they could be entitled to compensatory damages, which are usually a combination of economic damages and noneconomic damages. Economic damages refer to tangible losses a victim has incurred or will incur, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Noneconomic damages are much more subjective and typically cannot be quantified, including awards such as pain and suffering, loss of consortium, and disfigurement. Washington Pattern Instructions (WPI) § 348.02 states that a jury can also award punitive damages. Punitive damages are not intended to compensate a plaintiff but rather to punish a defendant and discourage similar acts in the future. The plaintiff has the burden of proving that punitive damages should be awarded because the defendant's conduct either was motivated by evil motive or intent or involved reckless or callous indifference to the rights of others.
Shawn Briggs and Marie Docter of The Law Offices of Briggs & Briggs were born, raised and educated in the Puget Sound area. They take pride in helping build a stronger and safer community. Their education and service on various boards and panels gives them a unique approach towards achieving better outcomes for their personal injury clients.