Average Settlement After Being Hit By a Company Vehicle in California
Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Short answer: The average settlement after being hit by a company vehicle in California is approximately $30,000 – $100,000. Settlement amounts vary due to the severity of injuries from each accident. Accidents involving minor injuries can expect approximately a $30,000 settlement. Accidents with more severe injuries can expect settlements to be approximately $100,000 or more with some cases settling for seven figures.
Average Company Vehicle Accident Settlement
| Severity of Accident | Average Settlement |
| Minor | Approximately: $15,000 – $50,000 |
| Moderate | Approximately: $50,000 – $150,000 |
| Severe | Approximately: $150,000 – $500,000 |
Factors That Can Result in a Higher Settlement Amount
When seeking a settlement after being hit by a company vehicle, some important factors below can help maximize your settlement amount:
- Documenting the incident,
- Gathering evidence like photos and witness statements,
- Reporting to the authorities,
- Obtaining medical records if injured, and
- Consulting with a lawyer to navigate the process effectively.
Factors That Might Result in a Lower Settlement Amount Than What You Could Get
Several factors could contribute to a lower settlement amount after being hit by a company vehicle. These may include:
- Unclear liability,
- insufficient evidence,
- Pre-existing medical conditions,
- Delayed medical treatment,
- No legal representation, and
- Comparative negligence.
It’s crucial to address these issues to maximize the chances of a favorable settlement.
What Types of Vehicles Are Company Vehicles?
Company vehicles can vary widely depending on the nature of the business and its operational needs. Common types of company vehicles include:
- Sedans and Cars: Often used by sales representatives, executives, or employees who require personal transportation for work purposes.
- Vans: Utilized for transporting goods, equipment, or personnel. Common in delivery services, catering, or construction.
- Trucks: Ranging from light-duty trucks for deliveries to heavy-duty trucks for transporting goods or equipment in construction and logistics.
- SUVs: Used for various purposes, including transporting employees, carrying equipment, or serving as a company vehicle for executives.
- Buses: Employed for employee transportation, shuttle services, or in industries that require the movement of large groups.
- Specialized Vehicles: Depending on the industry, companies may use specialized vehicles such as ambulances, construction vehicles, or service vehicles.
- Fleet Vehicles: Companies may maintain a fleet of various vehicles for specific business needs, including maintenance trucks, service vehicles, or rental cars.
Documentation Tips That Can Help Maximize Settlement Amounts
To maximize settlement amounts after being hit by a company vehicle, document the incident thoroughly. This includes:
- Obtaining the other driver’s information,
- Taking photos of the accident scene and damages,
- Collecting witness statements,
- Obtaining a copy of the police report,
- Seeking immediate medical attention,
- Keeping all medical records, and
- Preserving any additional evidence related to the accident.
This comprehensive documentation can strengthen your case and contribute to a more favorable settlement.
What to do After Being Hit By a Company Vehicle
After being hit by a company vehicle, consider these steps to protect yourself:
- Ensure Safety: Check for injuries and move to a safe location if possible.
- Call Authorities: Dial emergency services to report the accident. Obtain a copy of the police report.
- Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance details with the company vehicle driver.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, damages, and license plates. Gather witness information.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, see a doctor promptly. Document your medical condition for potential claims.
- Notify Your Insurance: Inform your insurance company about the accident, providing details and documentation.
- Avoid Admitting Fault: Refrain from admitting fault or making statements that could be used against you.
- Consult an Attorney: Consider consulting a personal injury attorney for guidance on your rights and potential legal actions.
Taking these steps can help protect your interests and help you provide necessary documentation.
What Not to do After Being Hit by a Company Vehicle
After being hit by a company vehicle, avoid these actions to protect your interests:
- Admitting Fault: Refrain from admitting fault or making statements that could be interpreted as accepting responsibility for the accident.
- Delaying Medical Attention: Don’t postpone seeking medical help. Prompt medical attention is crucial for your well-being and can strengthen your case.
- Skipping the Police Report: Always report the accident to the police. A police report can be valuable documentation for insurance claims and legal actions.
- Neglecting Documentation: Avoid neglecting the collection of evidence. Take photos of the scene, damages, and gather witness information to support your case.
- Settling Too Quickly: Don’t rush into settling with the insurance company without considering the full extent of your injuries and damages. Consult with an attorney for guidance.
- Talking to Insurance Alone: Avoid discussing the details of the accident with the at-fault party’s insurance company without consulting your own legal representation.
- Ignoring Legal Advice: If you seek legal advice, don’t ignore it. Follow the guidance of your attorney to navigate the claims process effectively.
By steering clear of these actions, you can better protect your rights and improve your chances of a fair settlement.
How Long Do Commercial Vehicle Accident Claims Take?
The duration of commercial vehicle accident claims can vary widely, ranging from a few months to several years. Factors influencing the timeline include the complexity of the case, the extent of injuries, negotiations with insurance companies, and potential legal proceedings.
Working closely with a legal professional can help navigate the process and obtain a more accurate estimate based on the specific details of your case.
Do Company Vehicles Carry Larger Insurance Policies?
Company vehicles often have larger insurance policies due to the potential for more significant liability. While a larger insurance policy may provide more resources for compensation, whether it results in a larger settlement depends on various factors. Some of these include:
- The specific details of the accident,
- Extent of your injuries, and
- The effectiveness of legal representation.
Having a skilled attorney can help navigate negotiations and increase the chances of obtaining a favorable settlement, regardless of the insurance policy size.
What are the Benefits of Hiring an Attorney?
Hiring an attorney after being hit by a company vehicle can offer several benefits. An attorney can:
- Assess the case,
- Navigate complex legal procedures,
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf,
- Help gather and present evidence,
- Ensure proper documentation, and
- Provide legal expertise to strengthen your claim.
Additionally, having a lawyer may increase the likelihood of a favorable settlement and relieve you from stress of handling legal complexities on your own.
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