Reports have come out that comedians Tracy Morgan and Walmart have reached a settlement over the New Jersey highway accident in June of 2014 that killed one and severely injured Morgan and two others. This accident involved a Walmart truck that slammed into the back of a limo carrying Morgan and several others.
Accidents involving trucks vs. cars are often the worst imaginable. The sheer weight and forces in these accidents often result in very serious injuries and/or deaths. As in this case, truck drivers are often pressured or forced to drive for extended periods of time in order to meet deadlines. The driver in Morgan’s case was awake for more than 24 hours.
Also of concern is insurance coverage for trucks that are responsible for these accidents. Currently, the Federal Motor Carrier Act of 1980 requires general freight carriers to have a minimum coverage of only $750,000. If this were the case in Morgan’s accident, those persons injured (and the one killed) would have to divide that $750,000 amongst themselves to compensate for all their injuries. With the cost of healthcare today, this is simply not enough to cover medical expenses.
Although this accident was tragic, luckily there appears to be enough coverage for all the victims to be fully compensated. “Walmart did right by me and my family, and for my associates and their families,” Morgan said in a statement. “I am grateful that the case was resolved amicably.” Walmart must have had enough coverage on this particular truck to cover all the injured party’s damages.
Finding enough insurance coverage to fully compensate those injured negligently by others is not always easy. The attorneys at the LaBovick Law Group understand how insurance companies work and are adept at finding coverage for those responsible for injuring others. If you have been injured in an automobile accident, call today for a free consultation.
