18 Wheeler Accidents Attorneys: 11 Thing You're Forgetting To Do
What to Do If You Are Injured in an 18-Wheeler Accident
If you've been injured as a result of an 18-wheeler collision, you deserve to get compensation for your injuries and injuries. A truck accident lawyer with expertise can guide you through the process.
A collision involving an 18-wheeler is more likely to cause serious injuries than a collision between two cars. These bigger trucks can be difficult to stop and are difficult to control.
Causes of 18-Wheeler accidents
You know how terrifying it can be to be in a crash involving an 18-wheeler. These massive vehicles are typically loaded with dangerous cargo that could prove deadly in the wrong hands. The drivers of these massive trucks are expected to be highly skilled and careful behind the wheel, but they're still at risk of accidents.
Drivers who are under pressure to get their goods to their destinations by the earliest possible time may go over the limit of what is safe for an 18-wheeler. They might decide to drive beyond the speed limit that is posted or ignore traffic signs that warn them of sharp turns and curves. This puts innocent drivers at risk of being hit by trucks.
Braking Problems
18-wheelers take longer to stop due to the size of their trailers. This is the case, particularly when they travel at high speeds and carrying heavy loads. If their brakes fail, they're unable to slow down enough to avoid collision.
Sleepy driving or falling asleep at the Wheel
Another major reason for 18 wheeler accidents is driver fatigue. Truckers work for long hours to earn a profit and might not get enough rest. Some truckers are taking prescription medications to treat allergies or colds which can lead to drowsiness.
They may not be familiar with the route they're traveling on and may attempt to consult an electronic or map system without taking off the highway. This could lead to an accident as they might not be able react in time to sudden changes in traffic.
Unsafe Road Conditions
Poorly maintained roads are particularly hazardous for 18-wheelers. They can trap trucks in areas they shouldn't, and cause them to slide or roll over.
This is especially challenging for truckers who typically spend many hours traveling down unknown roadways at night. It is also risky in the event of weather problems on these roads.
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration reported that a third all accidents involving 18 wheelers are caused by unsafe road conditions. These include poor pavement, design errors or maintenance, as well as weather issues like snow or heavy rain.
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 -- makes collisions with this vehicle risky. This is especially the case when it is transporting dangerous chemicals or hazardous liquids. require extra care.
One of the most common injuries sustained in an 18-wheeler collision is the TBI, or traumatic brain injury (TBI). Tiny brain lesions are difficult to spot on regular X-rays. However, they can cause havoc to the victim's health and quality of life.
These injuries are described as changes in the mental state, mood and behavior. They can also lead to physical disabilities or even death.
Traumatic brain injuries are a frequent injury that can be found during 18-wheeler accidents, specifically when they occur during the head-on collision. The force of the impact can cause brain damage that could lead to serious health issues, cognitive issues, memory loss, and difficulties in communication and decision-making.
Another kind of injury that happens often in collisions with large trucks is spinal cord injuries. These injuries can be devastating for the victims and their families which can result in paralysis or death.
Broken bones and fractures could be a frequent injury in truck accidents. Simple fractures can require a cast for up to a week while more complicated fractures can require extensive surgical procedures and a lengthy recovery time.
Amputating a damaged limb will prevent further injury. This can be an extremely painful and difficult procedure.
Amputations of certain types are possible due to infection or nerve damage, while other types are not. It is essential to speak with a doctor and look at your options before deciding to have any surgery.
Many of the victims of truck crashes have experienced facial injuries, such as burns, laceration, and blunt force trauma. This could lead to permanent disfigurement, psychological issues and scarring.
In addition to physical injuries, victims and their families of a crash involving a truck often suffer significant medical expenses along with lost income and future damages related to their injuries. It is crucial to talk with an attorney who has the right qualifications and can assist you in obtaining the compensation you require for medical expenses, lost income and other damages.
What to do following an 18-Wheeler Car Accident
It can be a challenge to know what to do in the event that you or someone else close to you is injured in an accident with a 18-wheeler. There are a few steps you could do following an accident.
It is crucial to remain in a calm state and collect the facts regarding what happened. You may accidentally reveal information to the insurance company or make it available to you if you do not.
It is recommended that you take all names, contact details and insurance details of all the parties involved. You should also talk to any witnesses and police officers who are at the scene.
Also, you should take pictures of the damages to both vehicles as well as other important details at the scene. These photos can be used as evidence in the future.
It's also recommended to seek medical attention for yourself and any passengers in the vehicle. This will help you identify any injuries which are not immediately apparent, like internal blood.
After being examined by an expert doctor, you must obtain x-rays and any other tests that you may require to receive the proper treatment. This will allow you to establish that the crash caused your injuries.
It is also important to hire a Houston attorney that specializes in 18-wheeler collisions as soon as possible after the accident. A lawyer can assist you gather evidence important to seek full compensation.
An experienced attorney will be able to determine the value of your injury claim and calculate your damages. This will ensure you get the maximum amount of compensation for your injuries and losses.
Injuries suffered in an 18-wheeler collision can be catastrophic, and you need to ensure that your family members are taken by the financial side. A Houston personal injury attorney from The Callahan Law Firm can assist you in obtaining the financial relief you need to heal from your injuries and get on with your life.
The truck accident lawyers at Morrow & Sheppard LLP are skilled in representing injured clients in commercial vehicle accidents across Texas. We will defend your rights because we are familiar with the complexities in these kinds of cases.
Settlements for 18-Wheeler accident settlements
18-wheeler accident victims and their families usually receive significant settlements. Settlements can be as high as millions dependent on the circumstances.
While there isn't an "average" settlement for a truck accident It's important to realize that the amount you'll receive depends on a number of factors that include your injuries, the liable parties and the amount of insurance coverage. Contributory negligence may also affect these factors.
Insurance companies frequently reach out to victims of accidents to offer them offers before filing a lawsuit. These offers might appear plausible, but they're typically significantly less than what victims are entitled to.
If you have been in a trucking accident, it's important to get an experienced lawyer as quickly as possible. These attorneys can help you determine the circumstances of your case and negotiate the best settlement.
Gathering all evidence is the first step to settling an 18-wheeler accident case. This includes medical records, witness statements, and any other information you can gather regarding the crash.
This evidence will help your lawyer calculate the true value for your losses. 18 wheeler accident lawyer massachusetts will be basing on your economic and non-economic damages, which can include things like the loss of future earnings, as well as pain and suffering.
Intangible losses like emotional and mental trauma, are also frequently overlooked in personal injury cases, however they can have a significant impact on your financial recovery. These damages can include loss of companionship, mental anguish and support.
Damages that are included in a settlement for trucking accidents can range from medical expenses to property damage as well as compensation for wrongful deaths. They can also include noneconomic damages, like emotional or mental stress, and pain.
Truck accidents usually result in larger settlements than car accidents due to the severity of injuries. The severity of injuries can cause the person to miss work for a long period of time and cause costly medical care and other expenses.