What to Do If You Are Injured in an 18-Wheeler Accident
If you've been injured in an 18-wheeler collision, you are entitled to compensation for your injuries and damage. A skilled truck accident lawyer can assist you through the process.
A crash involving an 18-wheeler is much more likely to result in serious injuries than a collision between two cars. These trucks are difficult to stop and are hard to control.
The causes of 18-wheeler accidents
If you've ever had to deal with an 18-wheeler wreck, you know how frightening it can be. These large vehicles can be packed with dangerous cargo that could be deadly if it gets into the wrong hands. The drivers of these large trucks are expected to be highly proficient and cautious behind the wheel, but they're still vulnerable to accidents.
Drivers under pressure to deliver their goods at a specified time can over-exceed the limit of safety for an 18 wheeler. They may choose to exceed the speed limit that is posted or ignore traffic signs that warn them of sharp curves and turns. This puts innocent motorists at risk of being hit by trucks.
Braking Problems
Because of the large size of their trailers, 18-wheelers need more time to stop than passenger vehicles. This is the case, particularly when they travel at high speeds and carrying large loads. When their brakes fail, they're not able to slow down enough to avoid collision.
Sleepy driving or falling asleep at the Wheel
Another reason for 18 wheeler accidents is fatigue. Truckers may work long hours in order to make a profit, and they may not get enough rest. Some truckers are taking prescription drugs to treat colds or allergies which can lead to drowsiness.
They may not be familiar with the road they're driving on and may try to consult a map or electronic navigation system, without turning off the highway. This could result in an accident because they may not be able to react in time to sudden changes in traffic.
Unsafe Road Conditions
Poorly maintained roads can be especially dangerous for 18-wheelers. They can trap trucks in places they shouldn't and cause them slip or even roll over.
This is especially challenging for truckers, who usually spend a lot of time traveling through uncharted roads at night. This can be particularly dangerous for truckers who spend lots of time on unlit roads at night.
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration states that a third all accidents involving 18-wheelers result from unsafe road conditions. These conditions can include poor pavement quality, inadequate design or maintenance, and weather issues such as snow or heavy rain.
Common injuries in 18 Wheeler Accidents
The weight and size of an 18-wheeler - a fully loaded semi truck that weighs 80,000 pounds or more could make collisions with this vehicle risky. This is particularly true when transporting dangerous chemicals or liquids that require extra care.
One of the most common injuries that can occur in an 18-wheeler crash is a TBI, or traumatic brain injury (TBI). Small lesions in the brain are difficult to detect in regular X-rays, but they can wreak havoc on the health of the victim and their quality of life.
These injuries are manifested by changes in mood, mental state and behavior. They can also cause physical impairment or even death.
Traumatic brain injuries are a common accident that can occur in 18-wheeler crashes, particularly when they occur in the head-on collision. The force of the impact can cause damage to the brain which could lead to serious health issues, cognitive problems, memory loss, and difficulties in decision-making and communication.
Spinal cord injuries are a second kind of injury that is quite common in collisions with big trucks. These injuries can result in paralysis or even death for the victims and their family members.
Broken bones and fractures are another common injury in truck crashes. Simple fractures can require at least a week in a cast, while complex fractures could require extensive surgeries and long recuperation times.
If a limb is severely damaged, it could be amputated to stop further damage. This is a difficult and painful procedure.
Certain types of amputations are able to be done due to an injury to the nerve or an infection. Other types of amputations aren't. It's important to consult with an expert doctor and weigh your options before you decide to undergo any procedure.
Many victims of truck accidents have suffered facial injuries, which include burns, lacerations and blunt force trauma. This could lead to permanent disfigurement, psychological problems and scarring.
In addition to physical injuries, victims and their families of a crash involving a truck often face significant medical bills along with lost income and the possibility of future damages due to their injuries. This is why it is essential to seek out the counsel of a skilled lawyer who will help you get the compensation you need to pay for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
What should you do following an 18-Wheeler Collision
If you or someone you love is injured in a crash with an 18-wheeler vehicle, it can be difficult to know what to do next. There are some steps you can follow following an accident.
It is first important to remain at peace and focused on obtaining the facts about what happened. You could accidentally divulge information to the insurance company or use it against you if you don't.
It is therefore recommended to get all the names, contact details and insurance details of everyone involved. Also, you should speak to witnesses and any police officers present at the scene.
You should also take photos of the damage to both vehicles and other important details on the scene. These photos could serve as evidence later on in the case.
The person who is in the vehicle should also seek medical treatment. This will help you recognize any injuries that aren't immediately obvious like internal bleeding.
After you've been examined by a doctor, it is recommended to undergo x-rays, or any other tests that you may require in order to receive the correct treatment. This will help establish the cause of the injuries you suffered.
It is also essential to engage an attorney in Houston who specializes in 18-wheeler accident cases as quickly as you can after the accident. A lawyer can help you collect evidence that is crucial and seek full compensation.
An experienced lawyer can determine the value of your claim and calculate 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 should make sure that your family is taken by the financial side. A Houston personal injury lawyer from The Callahan Law Firm can help you pursue the financial relief you need to recover from your injuries and move on with your life.
The truck accident lawyers at Morrow & Sheppard LLP have the experience of representing clients who've been injured in commercial vehicle crashes throughout Texas. We will defend your rights because we understand the complexities involved in these types of cases.
Settlements in 18-Wheeler Accidents
18-wheeler accident victims and their families typically receive significant settlements. Settlements can range from thousands to billions dependent on the circumstances.
There isn't an " 18 wheeler accident law firm lancaster " for a truck accident but it's important know that the amount you'll get is contingent upon a variety of factors including your injuries and the responsible parties and the insurance coverage that is available. These elements can also be affected by the degree of responsibility you played in the accident, which is referred to as contributory negligence.
One common tactic employed by insurance companies is to reach out to victims of accidents and offer them deals well before they even file an action. These offers might appear like they're reasonable, but they're typically significantly less than what victims deserve.
If you have been in an accident with a truck you should seek an experienced lawyer as quickly as you can. These attorneys can help you determine the circumstances of your case and negotiate the most favorable settlement.
The first step in settling your 18-wheeler accident claim is to gather all the evidence you have. This includes medical records, witness testimony as well any other information about the accident.
This information will help your lawyer calculate the actual value of your losses. The amount will be basing on your economic and non-economic damages, which include things like loss of future earnings as well as pain and suffering.
Intangible losses, such as emotional and mental trauma, are often ignored in personal injury cases. However, they can have major effects on your financial recovery. These damages could include the loss of companionship, support, and mental anguish.
In a settlement resulting from trucking accidents, damages can range from medical costs and property damage to the compensation for wrongful deaths. It can also include non-economic damages, such as emotional and psychological stress and pain.
The settlements in truck accidents are usually higher than those for car crashes because of the seriousness of the injuries that are involved. Injuries that are severe can cause an individual to be absent from work for a long amount of time, and could lead to expensive medical care and other costs.