A new trucking liability law has arrived. West Virginia’s recent enactment of legislation imposing a cap on noneconomic damage awards in civil lawsuits involving commercial motor vehicles has stirred considerable discussion within the trucking industry. As legal advisors specializing in transportation law, Hughes Lawyers, LLC, recognizes the significance of this development and the implications it
Transportation Law: Bills in Wisconsin and Indiana to Curb Lawsuit Abuse
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In a move to address lawsuit abuse impacting the trucking industry, Wisconsin and Indiana have recently passed legislation aimed at curbing excessive damages and promoting safety on the roads. These measures arrive against a backdrop of escalating nuclear verdicts in civil litigation. State legislators to take action to protect trucking companies and ensure fairness in legal proceedings.
Legislators Take Steps in Wisconsin and Indiana
In Wisconsin, Senate Bill 613, passed on Feb. 21, seeks to limit noneconomic damages to $1 million in court claims involving injury, death, or other losses resulting from acts or omissions by employees of commercial motor vehicle carriers. This transportation law is a response to the growing concern over rampant lawsuit abuse hindering the operations of the trucking industry. Proponents of the bill highlight the critical role of the trucking industry in the state’s economy. Industry experts emphasize the need to combat frivolous lawsuits to maintain fairness in civil litigation.
In Indiana, House Bill 1090 is awaiting the governor’s signature. It proposes amendments to transportation laws to allow evidence of non-compliance with passenger restraint system laws to be admitted in civil suits. This measure aims to mitigate damages for personal injuries or death experienced by plaintiffs involved in motor vehicle incidents. The bill’s authors and supporters point to the vital role of the trucking industry in delivering essential goods safely and efficiently and call for swift enactment of the bill to address growing obstacles posed by lawsuit abuse.
Read statements from industry stakeholders and more context from Transport Topics: State Truckers Urge Governors to Enact Legislation
Industry Support and Advocacy
State and national trucking industry stakeholders have applauded both bills and urged Govs. Tony Evers of Wisconsin and Eric Holcomb of Indiana to sign the bills into law. Advocates argue that these legislative reforms are essential to deterring frivolous lawsuits and maintaining fairness in civil litigation. Others emphasized the broader implications of these legislative reforms, noting that they contribute to justice, fairness, and safety on the roads. These measures highlight the risk of nuclear verdicts and settlements for trucking companies. These trucking companies are significant providers of middle-class jobs and vital to their respective economies.
Transportation Law: Seek Expert Legal Guidance
As these legislative changes unfold, it’s crucial for trucking companies to stay informed. Seek expert legal guidance to navigate the evolving legal landscape. At Hughes Lawyers, LLC, we specialize in transportation law. We are committed to helping our clients understand and comply with these new regulations. Contact us today. Learn more about how we can support your legal needs and ensure your continued success in the industry.
