18 Wheeler Accidents Attorneys: What No One Is Talking About
What to Do If You Are Injured in an 18-Wheeler Accident
If you've been injured by an 18-wheeler driver, you have the right to receive compensation for your injuries and damages. A skilled truck accident lawyer can assist you through the process.
A collision involving an 18-wheeler is more likely to cause serious injury than a typical collision between two vehicles. These bigger trucks are usually more difficult to control and can be extremely difficult to stop.
The causes of 18-wheeler accidents
If you've ever been in an 18-wheeler crash you're aware of how scary it can be. These massive vehicles can be loaded with dangerous cargo that could be deadly in the wrong hands. The drivers of these big trucks are expected to be skilled and careful behind the wheel, however they're still vulnerable to accidents.
Drivers under pressure to deliver items at a particular time might over-exceed the limit of safety for an 18 wheeler. They might choose to exceed the speed limit posted or ignore traffic signs that warn them of tight turns and curves. This puts innocent drivers at risk of being hit by trucks.
Braking Problems
18-wheelers require longer time to stop due to the size of their trailers. This is particularly true if they're traveling at high speeds and hauling large loads. If brakes fail, drivers are unable to stop fast enough to prevent an accident.
Drowsy Driving / Falling Awake at the Wheel
Driver fatigue is a major cause of accidents involving 18-wheelers. Truckers might work long hours to make money, and may not have enough rest. 18 wheeler accident lawyer allen might be taking over-the counter drugs to treat colds or allergies which can lead to drowsiness.
They may not be familiar with the road and may try to consult the map or navigation system without stopping. This could lead to an accident since they may not be capable of reacting in time to sudden changes in traffic conditions.
Unsafe Road Conditions
Poorly maintained roadways are particularly hazardous for 18-wheelers. They can trap trucks in places they shouldn't be, causing them to skid or rollover.
Truckers who spend a lot of time at night on unmarked roads may have trouble. It could also be risky when a trucker is faced with conditions that are not suitable for driving on these roads.
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration revealed that a third of accidents involving 18 wheelers are caused by unsafe road conditions. These conditions can include poor quality pavement, inadequate maintenance or design, or weather issues such as heavy rain or snow.
Common injuries that occur in 18 Wheeler Accidents
The size and weight of an 18-wheeler, a fully loaded semi truck that weighs up to 80,000 pounds or more can make collisions with this type of vehicle extremely dangerous. This is especially true when it is traveling with a load of hazardous liquids or chemicals that require extra caution.
A traumatized brain injury is one of the most common accidents that occur in 18-wheeler crashes. Although they're difficult to detect on a normal X-ray scan, the smallest lesions that can be found in the head can have a devastating impact on the patient's quality of life and overall health.
These injuries are described as an alteration in mood, mental state and behavior. They may also cause physical disability or even death.
Traumatic brain injuries are a common injury that can be found in 18-wheeler crashes, particularly when they occur in head-on collisions. The force of impact can cause brain damage, which can cause serious health problems, cognitive issues memory loss, and difficulties in communication and decision-making.
Spinal cord injuries are another type of injury that is frequently found in collisions with big trucks. These injuries can be devastating for the victims and their families, resulting in paralysis or death.
Broken bones and fractures can also be common injuries in truck accidents. Simple breaks may require an entire week or more in a cast. On the other hand, complex fractures can involve extensive operations and long recovery times.
If a limb is severely damaged, it may be removed to prevent further damage. This is a painful and difficult procedure.
Certain types of amputations can be performed due to an infection or a permanent nerve damage. Others aren't. Before deciding to undergo any surgery, it's important to consult a physician to discuss your options.
Many victims in truck crashes have suffered facial injuries including laceration, burns, and blunt force trauma. This can result in permanent disfigurement, scarring, and psychological issues.
In addition to physical injuries the victims and their families of a trucking accident often face significant medical bills along with lost income and the possibility of future damages due to their injuries. This is why it's important to seek advice of a skilled lawyer who can help you obtain the compensation you need to pay for your medical expenses, lost wages and other damages.
What to do after an 18-Wheeler Car Crash
If you or someone you love is injured in a crash with an 18-wheeler, it may be a challenge to figure out what to do next. There are several steps you can take after an accident.
It is crucial to remain calm and focused on obtaining the facts of what transpired. If you don't be careful, you could accidentally reveal information that can be used against you by the truck driver or his insurance company.
Therefore, you should try to collect the names and contact details of all the parties involved and their insurance and drivers' licenses. You should also talk to witnesses and any police officers present at the scene.
Take photos of the damage to both vehicles, as well as other important details. These photographs could be used as evidence in the future.
It is also an excellent idea to seek medical treatment for yourself and all passengers in the vehicle. This will allow you identify any injuries which are not immediately apparent, such as internal blood.
After being examined by a doctor, you should undergo x-rays, or any other tests you might require to receive the appropriate treatment. This will allow you establish that your injuries resulted from the accident.
Finally, it is important to retain an Houston attorney who specializes in 18-wheeler accidents as soon as possible after the accident. An attorney can help you gather evidence that is crucial and pursue a full compensation claim.
An experienced attorney will be able to determine the value of your injury claim and calculate your damages. This will ensure you receive the maximum amount of compensation for your injuries and losses.
Injuries caused by an 18-wheeler crash can be catastrophic and you must make sure that your family members are taken by the financial side. A Houston personal injury lawyer from The Callahan Law Firm can assist you in obtaining the financial relief you require to recover from your injuries and continue with your life.
The truck accident lawyers at Morrow & Sheppard LLP have expertise in representing clients who have suffered injuries in commercial vehicle accidents throughout Texas. We are aware of the complexities of these types of cases and will fight hard to protect your rights.
Settlements in 18-Wheeler Car Accidents
Families of victims of accidents involving 18-wheelers typically receive substantial settlements. They can range from tens of thousands to millions of dollars depending on the specifics of the case.
While there isn't an "average" settlement for a trucking accident It is important to recognize that the amount you are awarded will depend on a variety factors, including your injuries, the responsible parties, and the amount of available insurance coverage. Contributory negligence can also affect these factors.
Insurance companies often contact victims of accidents to offer them offers prior to filing a lawsuit. The offers might appear reasonable, but are often significantly less than the victims deserve.
It is crucial to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as you notice the accident with your truck. These attorneys can help you understand your case and negotiate the best settlement.
The first step to settle your claim for an 18-wheeler crash is to gather all of the evidence you have. This includes medical records and witness testimony as well as any other information related to the accident.
The evidence you gather will enable your lawyer to calculate the true value of your losses. This value will be based on your economic and non-economic damages, which can include things like loss of future earnings as well as pain and suffering.
Intangible injuries, such as mental and psychological trauma, are often not considered in personal injury cases, but can significantly impact your financial recovery. These damages could include the loss of companionship, support, and mental distress.
Damages that could be included in a settlement of a trucking accident include everything from medical expenses to property damages and the compensation for wrongful death. They can also include noneconomic damages, such as mental or emotional stress and pain.
The settlements from truck accidents tend to be higher than those of car accidents because of the seriousness of the injuries that are involved. A serious injury can force an individual to miss work for a lengthy period and can cause costly medical treatment and other costs.