What to Do If You Are Injured in an 18-Wheeler Accident
If you've been injured by an 18-wheeler, you have the right to receive compensation for your injuries and the damages. A skilled truck accident lawyer can help you with the process.
A crash involving an 18-wheeler is more likely to cause serious injuries than a collision involving two cars. These bigger trucks are usually more difficult to control and may be very hard to stop.
Causes of 18-wheeler accident
If you've ever had to deal with an 18-wheeler accident you're aware of how terrifying it can be. These large vehicles are often loaded with dangerous cargo that could prove fatal if handled improperly. The drivers of these big trucks are expected to be competent and cautious behind the wheel, however they are still susceptible to accidents.
Drivers who are pressured to get goods to their destination at a certain time may exceed the limits of safety for an 18-wheeler. They may decide to drive above the speed limit posted or ignore traffic signs that warn them of sharp turns and curves. This puts innocent pedestrians at risk of being hit by trucks.
Braking Problems
Due to the huge size of their trailers and trucks, 18-wheelers require more time to stop than passenger vehicles. This is especially true when they're driving at high speeds and carrying heavy loads. If brakes fail, drivers cannot stop fast enough to prevent an accident.
Drowsy driving / Falling asleep at the Wheel
Driver fatigue is another major factor in accidents involving 18-wheelers. Truckers work long hours to earn money and may not be able to sleep enough. They may also be taking prescription drugs to treat allergies or cold symptoms which can cause sleepiness.
They might not be familiar with the road and may try to consult an online navigation system or map without stopping. This could result in an accident because they may not be able to react in time to sudden changes in traffic.
Unsafe Road Conditions
Roads that are not maintained properly are particularly dangerous for 18-wheelers. They could trap trucks in places where they shouldn't be, causing them to skid or roll over.
This is especially challenging for truckers, who frequently spend long periods of time traveling through uncharted roads at night. This can be especially dangerous for truckers who spend a lot of time traveling on unlit roads at night.
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration revealed that a third of accidents involving 18 wheelers are caused by unsafe road conditions. These conditions can be caused by poor pavement, improper design or maintenance, and climate problems such as heavy rain or snow.
Common injuries in 18-wheeler accidents
Accidents involving an 18-wheeler a semi truck that is fully loaded and weighs at least 80,000 pounds are very dangerous. This is especially true when the 18-wheeler is carrying hazardous chemicals or liquids.
One of the most frequent injuries that occur in an accident involving an 18-wheeler is a trauma to the brain (TBI). Tiny lesions in the brain are difficult to spot in regular X-rays, but they can wreak havoc on the health of the victim and their quality of life.
These injuries are characterized as changes in the mood, mental state, and behavior. They can also result in physical disabilities or even death.
Traumatic brain injuries are a frequent accident that can occur in 18-wheeler accidents, particularly when they occur during an accident that is head-on. The force of the impact can result in brain damage, which can result in serious health issues, cognitive problems memory loss, as well as difficulties with communication and decision making.
Another type of injury that occurs frequently in collisions involving large trucks is spinal injuries. These injuries can cause paralysis or even death for the victims and their family members.
Broken bones and fractures may be a common injury in truck accidents. Simple breaks can require a week or more in a cast. However, complex fractures can involve extensive surgeries and long recuperation times.
Amputating a limb that has been severely damaged can prevent further injury. This is a painful and complicated procedure.
Certain types of amputations may 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 with a doctor to discuss your options.
Many victims of truck crashes have suffered facial injuries, including burns, lacerations, and blunt force trauma. This can cause permanent disfigurement, psychological issues and scarring.
In addition to physical injuries, victims and their families of a crash involving a truck often face significant medical bills, lost income, and future damages due to their injuries. It is crucial to talk with an attorney who has the right qualifications and can assist you with getting the compensation you require for medical expenses, lost income and other damages.
What to do after an 18-Wheeler Crash
It can be challenging to know what to do if you or someone around you is injured in an accident involving an 18-wheeler. There are a few steps you can follow following an accident.
It is crucial to remain in a calm state and collect the facts about what transpired. You could unintentionally reveal details to the insurance company of the truck driver company or make it available to you if you do not.
It is therefore recommended to take all names, contact details and insurance information of all those involved. Also, you should speak to witnesses and any police officers at the scene.
Take photos of the damage on both vehicles, in addition to other important details. These photographs could be used as evidence in the future.
It is also a good idea to get medical attention for yourself as well as any passengers in the vehicle. This will help you identify any injuries which are not immediately apparent, such as internal blood.
After being examined by an expert doctor, you must get x-rays or any other tests that you may require to get the right treatment. This will allow you establish that your injuries were caused by the accident.
Finally, it is important to engage an Houston attorney that specializes in 18-wheeler accident cases as soon as you can after the accident. A lawyer can help you collect important evidence and pursue a full compensation claim.
An experienced attorney will be able to assess the value of your injury claim and calculate your damages. This will ensure you get the maximum amount of compensation for your losses and injuries.
Injuries caused by an 18-wheeler crash can be devastating and you must make sure that your family is taken care of financially. The Callahan Law Firm, a Houston personal injury lawyer, can help you achieve the financial assistance you need to recover and continue living your life.
The truck accident lawyers at Morrow & Sheppard LLP are adept at representing clients who have been injured in commercial vehicle accidents throughout Texas. We will fight for your rights because we understand the complexities involved in these types of cases.
Settlements in 18-Wheeler Accidents
Families of victims of accidents involving 18-wheelers often receive significant settlements. They can be anything from tens to thousands to millions of dollars, depending on the specifics of the case.
There is no "average settlement" for a truck crash however it is important to be aware that the amount you get is contingent on many factors, including your injuries as well as the fault of the parties involved, and the insurance coverage available. Contributory negligence can also affect these elements.
One common tactic employed by insurance companies is to reach out to victims of accidents and offer offers before filing a lawsuit. 18 wheeler accident claim rochester might appear reasonable, but they are usually substantially less than what the victim deserves.
If you have been in a trucking accident it is crucial to speak with an experienced lawyer as quickly as possible. These lawyers can help understand your case and negotiate a settlement that is fair.
The first step to settle your 18-wheeler accident claim is to gather all the evidence you have. This includes medical records as well as witness testimony as well as any other details regarding the accident.
Having this evidence will allow your lawyer to determine the true value of your losses. The value will be determined based on your economic and non-economic damages, which can include things like loss of future earnings, as well as suffering and pain.
Intangible injuries, such as mental and psychological trauma, are often not considered in personal injury claims, however they can be significant to your financial recovery. These damages can include loss of companionship and support and mental anguish.
In a settlement agreement for an accident involving a truck, damages can range from medical costs and property damage, to the wrongful death compensation. They can also include noneconomic damages, like emotional or mental stress as well as pain.
Truck accidents typically result in higher settlements than car accidents due to the seriousness of injuries. Injuries that are severe can cause the person to miss work for a prolonged period of time and may cause expensive medical care as well as other expenses.