18 Wheeler Accidents Attorneys Explained In Fewer Than 140 Characters
What to Do If You Are Injured in an 18-Wheeler Accident
If you've been injured by an 18-wheeler, you are entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages. A lawyer for truck accidents with experience can help you navigate the process.
A collision involving a 18-wheeler is much more likely to cause serious injuries than a collision involving two cars. These larger trucks are typically more difficult to control and can be very hard to stop.
Causes of 18-wheeler accidents
You are aware of how frightening it can be to be in an 18-wheeler crash. These huge vehicles are loaded with hazardous cargo that can be deadly in the wrong hands. These massive trucks must be driven by drivers who are cautious and skilled, however they are not immune to accidents.
Drivers who are under pressure for delivering goods to their destinations by a certain time may overdo it to the point of being unsafe for an 18-wheeler. They may choose to drive over the speed limit that is posted or ignore traffic signs that warn drivers of the dangers of tight turns and curves. This puts innocent passengers in danger of being hit by trucks.
Braking Problems
18-wheelers need more time to stop due to the size of their trailers. This is especially true if they're driving at high speeds and carrying large loads. When brakes fail, drivers are unable to stop in time to avoid an accident.
Drowsy Driving / Falling Awake at the Wheel
Driver fatigue is another major cause of 18-wheeler accidents. Truckers work long hours to earn a profit and might not get enough rest. Some truckers may be taking prescription drugs to treat colds or allergies that can cause drowsiness.
They might be unfamiliar with the road they're on and might attempt to use the map or electronic navigation system without removing themselves from the highway. This could result in an accident because they may not be able react in time to sudden traffic changes.
Unsafe Road Conditions
Poorly maintained roads can be dangerous for 18-wheelers. They could trap trucks in places they shouldn't and cause them slip or even roll over.
18 wheeler accident lawsuit ventura can be particularly challenging for truckers, who often spend many hours traveling along unmarked roads at night. It can also be dangerous if a trucker encounters weather problems on these roads.
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration stated that a third of accidents involving 18 wheelers is caused by unsafe road conditions. These could include poor pavement quality, inadequate maintenance or design, and climate problems like heavy snow or rain.
Common injuries in 18 Wheeler Accidents
Collisions with an 18-wheeler, semi truck that is fully loaded and weighs at minimum 80,000 pounds, are extremely risky. This is especially true when the 18-wheeler is carrying dangerous chemicals or liquids.
One of the most frequent injuries sustained in an 18-wheeler collision is a trauma to the brain (TBI). Even though they are 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 often described as changes in the mood, mental state and behavior. They can also lead to physical impairment or even death.
Traumatic brain injuries are a common injury that is seen during 18-wheeler accidents, specifically when they occur in an accident that is head-on. The force of the impact can cause damage to the brain, which can lead to serious health issues, cognitive difficulties memory loss, problems in decision-making and communication.
Spinal cord injuries are a different type of injury that is often the result of collisions with big trucks. These injuries can lead to paralysis or even death for victims and their families.
Broken bones and fractures can be common injuries in truck accidents. Simple fractures might require a cast for a week or even longer while more complex fractures can require extensive surgery and a lengthy recovery period.
If a limb is badly damaged, it might be amputated to stop further damage. This is a difficult and painful procedure.
Certain types of amputations may be performed due to an infection or a permanent nerve damage. Others are not. It is essential to speak with a doctor and look at your options prior to deciding to have any surgery.
Many victims of truck crashes have suffered facial injuries, which include burns, lacerations and blunt force trauma. This can lead to permanent disfigurement, psychological issues, and scarring.
In addition to physical injuries the victims and their families of a trucking crash often suffer significant medical expenses along with lost income and future damages related to their injuries. This is why it's important to seek the counsel of a skilled lawyer who can assist you to get the compensation you require for medical expenses, lost wages and other damages.
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Crash
If you or a loved one is injured in a crash with an 18-wheeler, it could be a bit difficult to determine what to do next. There are a few steps you could do following an accident.
It is essential to remain calm and gather the facts regarding what happened. If you don't, you could inadvertently reveal information that could be used against you by the truck driver or his insurance company.
In the event of a collision it is important to take down the names and contact numbers of all parties involved and their insurance and driver's licenses. Also, you should speak to witnesses or police officers who are present at the scene.
You should also take pictures of the damage to both vehicles and other important details on the scene. These pictures can act as evidence later on in the case.
All passengers and you should also seek medical treatment. This will allow you to identify any injuries that aren't immediately apparent like internal bleeding.
After being evaluated by a medical professional, ensure that you receive x-rays and any other tests necessary to get the right treatment. This will allow you to prove that your injuries resulted from the accident.
Finally, it is important to retain a Houston attorney who specializes in 18-wheeler accidents as quickly as you can after the accident. A lawyer can assist you collect important evidence and seek full compensation.
An experienced attorney can assess the worth of your claim and calculate damages. This will ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Injuries that result from an accident involving an 18-wheeler can be devastating and you should make sure that your family members are taken seriously financially. A Houston personal injury lawyer from The Callahan Law Firm can help you get the financial relief you require to recover from your injuries and continue with your life.
The lawyers for truck accidents at Morrow & Sheppard LLP have expertise in representing clients who have suffered injuries from commercial vehicle accidents throughout Texas. We will fight for your rights because we know the complexities in these types of cases.
Settlements for 18-Wheeler accident settlements
18-wheeler accident victims and their families usually recover substantial settlements. These vary from tens of thousands to millions of dollars, dependent on the circumstances of the case.
While there isn't an "average" settlement for a truck accident it is crucial to know that the amount you are awarded will depend on a variety factors which include your injuries, the responsible parties, and the amount of insurance coverage. Contributory negligence may also affect these aspects.
One common tactic employed by insurance companies is to reach out to victims of accidents and offer to pay prior to filing a lawsuit. They may appear appealing, but they are typically significantly less than what victims are entitled to.
If you've been involved in an accident involving a truck you should seek an experienced attorney as soon as possible. These attorneys can help to analyze your case and negotiate an agreement that is fair.
Gathering all evidence is the initial step to solving an 18-wheeler collision case. This includes medical records as well as witnesses' testimony as well as any other information about the accident.
The evidence you gather will enable your lawyer to determine the actual value of your losses. The value is determined by both economic and non-economic damage such as suffering and suffering, as well as loss of future earnings.
Intangible losses, like emotional and mental trauma are often ignored in personal injury cases. However, they can have significant effects on your financial recovery. These damages include the loss of companionship, mental anguish, and support.
Damages that can be included in a settlement for trucking accidents can range from medical expenses to property damage, as well as the compensation for wrongful death. They can also cover non-economic damages, like emotional or mental stress, and pain.
Settlements for truck accidents are typically larger than those from car accidents due to the severity of injuries involved. Injuries that are severe can cause individuals to be absent from work for a prolonged period and could cause costly medical treatment and other costs.