Midwest states are considering reforming regulations regarding non-economic damages compensation in accidents
The states in the upper Midwest region of the United States are considering reforming regulations regarding non-economic damages compensation in accidents involving large trucks. Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, and Washington are addressing issues associated with road transportation through new legislative proposals.
Illinois: Limitation on non-economic damages in wrongful death cases
In 2023, a civil liability bill was approved by Governor J.B. Pritzker, allowing unlimited compensation for non-economic damages in cases of wrongful death, including compensation for pain and suffering.
Currently, Representative Ryan Spain is leading the HB4992 bill proposal, which seeks to limit non-economic damages in civil lawsuits against common carriers to a maximum of $2 million per plaintiff. So far, 118 people have testified in favor of the bill, while five have opposed it. The OOIDA urges Illinois residents to contact their state legislators to support this civil liability bill.
Indiana: Seatbelt usage in traffic accident trials
In Indiana, Governor Eric Holcomb signed a bill authorizing civil trial juries in traffic accident cases to consider whether the victim was wearing a seatbelt, which may influence the assessment of damages.
Jim Pressel, Chairman of the Transportation Committee, emphasizes the importance of allowing jurors access to this information without state interference, ensuring that it does not affect liability or the cause of the accident, but only the determination of damages. The American Trucking Association supports this reform, highlighting its role in promoting fairness and transparency in the civil judicial system. The law will take effect on July 1.
![En la imagen se muestra un accidente de camión](https://www.sgibinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/2-17-768x728.png)
Iowa: Damages in commercial vehicle-related lawsuits
In Iowa, legislation was introduced in 2023 that limited moral damages indemnities to $5 million. While non-economic damages such as pain and suffering are limited, economic damages such as lost wages or medical expenses are unlimited. Punitive damages, if awarded, are also not limited.
However, a Senate bill introduced this year aims to reverse these modifications by removing the restriction on compensation for non-economic damages and encompassing a wide range of liabilities and damages in civil actions related to large vehicles. This bill would overturn the state’s defendant superior law and hold employers accountable for the negligence of their employees. It would also repeal the $5 million limit on non-economic damages set the previous year.
Wisconsin: Truck insurance reform
In Wisconsin, state lawmakers have proposed a truck insurance reform aimed at countering exorbitant verdicts. Bill SB613 establishes a limit of one million dollars on non-economic damages related to injuries, death, or other losses in truck incidents. While it does not affect direct medical expenses, it aims to address the growing issue of disproportionate verdicts negatively impacting the trucking industry.
This measure is endorsed by the Wisconsin Motor Carriers Association and the OOIDA, who believe it will help mitigate problems associated with insurance rate increases and supply chain difficulties.
![En la imagen se muestran dos personas con un contrato de seguro de vehículo](https://www.sgibinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-16-768x728.png)
![The story of the first car race in Paris: a historic hit in 1894](https://www.sgibinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/1-27-300x284.png)
The story of the first car race in Paris: a historic hit in 1894
Paris stands not only as a cultural and artistic epicenter but also as a pioneer in car racing In the history of automotive racing, Paris
![En la imagen se muestra una carretera de Estados Unidos](https://www.sgibinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/1-26-300x284.png)
Top states for driving in the United States in 2024
A WalletHub study compared all 50 states to determine the best driving conditions Road safety and quality are central concerns for drivers. And while the
![En la imagen se muestra un vehículo eléctrico](https://www.sgibinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/2-25-300x284.png)
Briefs: marijuana reclassification, vehicle fees, and climate grants
The trucking industry goes through new legislation, taxes and subsidies Questions about the proposed reclassification of marijuana The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) supports the
![En la imagen se muestra la contaminación del tráfico](https://www.sgibinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/2-24-300x284.png)
Impact of traffic pollution: study reveals increase in blood pressure
A study from the University of Washington in Seattle reveals that the main cause of significant increases in blood pressure might be traffic-related gasses A
![En la imagen se muestra un conductor de camión](https://www.sgibinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/3-13-300x284.png)
The benefits and careers of a Commercial Driver’s License
Having a CDL opens multiple doors within the trucking and transportation industry Having a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) opens multiple doors within the trucking industry,
![En la imagen se muestra un camión con vehículos en la carretera](https://www.sgibinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/2-22-300x284.png)
Sharing the road with a truck: steps to ensure your safety
Caution around blind spots and anticipating truck maneuvers are essential to ensuring everyone’s safety Truck drivers face significant challenges on the road due to their