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 in an 18-wheeler accident, then you deserve to get compensation for your injuries and damage. A lawyer for truck accidents with experience can guide you through the process. A collision with an 18-wheeler is much more likely to result in serious injuries than a collision between two cars. These larger trucks are often more difficult to control and can be very difficult to stop. Causes of 18-Wheeler accidents If you've ever had to deal with an 18-wheeler accident, you know how frightening it can be. These huge vehicles are packed with dangerous cargo that could be deadly in the wrong hands. The drivers of these large trucks are expected to be extremely proficient and cautious when they are behind the wheel, yet they're still prone to accidents. Drivers who are pressured for delivering goods to their destinations at a certain time may overdo it to the point of being unsafe for an 18-wheeler. They might decide to exceed the speed limit posted, or ignore traffic signs warning them of tight turns and curves. This puts innocent motorists at risk of being struck 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 if they're travelling at high speed and carrying large loads. If their brakes fail they're not able to slow down enough to avoid the possibility of crashing. Drowsy Driving / Falling Awake at the Wheel Driver fatigue is a major cause of accidents involving 18-wheelers. Truckers may work long hours in order to earn a profit and do not get enough rest. They could also be taking prescription medications to treat allergies or cold symptoms that can lead to insomnia. They may not be familiar with the route they're traveling on and may try to consult a map or electronic navigation system without pulling off the highway. This could result in an accident since they may not be able to react in time to sudden changes in traffic conditions. Unsafe Road Conditions Poorly maintained roadways are particularly hazardous for 18-wheelers. They could trap trucks in areas where they shouldn't be and cause them to slide over or roll. Truckers who spend a lot time in the dark on unlit roads may have trouble. It can also be risky if a trucker encounters weather problems 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 include poor road design, inadequate pavement or maintenance, as well as conditions like snow or heavy rain. Common Injuries in 18-Wheeler Accidents Collisions involving an 18-wheeler, a semi truck that is fully loaded and weighs at least 80,000 pounds, can be very dangerous. This is especially the case when it is transporting dangerous chemicals or liquids that require extra caution. One of the most common injuries that occur in an accident involving an 18-wheeler is the TBI. (TBI). Tiny lesions in the brain are difficult to identify in regular X-rays, but they can wreak havoc on the health of the victim and their quality of life. These injuries are caused by changes in mental state, mood and behavior. They can also lead to physical disabilities or even death. In 18-wheeler accidents, brain injuries are common particularly in the course of collisions. The force of the collision can result in damage to the brain, which can lead to serious health issues, cognitive difficulties memory loss, and difficulties with communication and decision making. Spinal cord injuries are a second kind of injury that is quite common in collisions with big trucks. These injuries can be devastating for the victims and their families which can result in paralysis or death. Broken bones and fractures can also be a common occurrence in truck accidents. Simple fractures may require at least a week in a cast. On the other hand, complex fractures could require 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 are possible due to infection or permanent nerve damage, while other types of amputations aren't. Before deciding on any procedure, you need to consult with a doctor to discuss your options. 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 victims and their families of a trucking accident often suffer significant medical expenses as well as lost income and the possibility of future damages due to their injuries. It is important to consult a lawyer who is qualified and can assist you with getting the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. What to do after an 18-Wheeler Car Crash If you or a loved one is injured in a collision with an 18-wheeler, it could be difficult to know what to do next. There are a few steps you need to follow following an accident. It is essential to remain calm and gather the facts regarding what happened. You may accidentally reveal details to the insurance company, or even use it against you if you don't. It is therefore recommended to get all names, contact details and insurance information of everyone involved. You should also speak to any witnesses and police officers who are at the scene. It is also important to take photographs of the vehicle damage and other important details at the scene. These photos can be used as evidence later in the case. All passengers and you should also seek medical assistance. This will allow you recognize any injuries which are not immediately obvious, for instance, internal blood. Once you've been evaluated by a medical professional ensure that you get an x-ray and any other tests that may be required to ensure you receive the right treatment. This will help prove that the crash caused your injuries. It is also crucial to retain an attorney in Houston who specializes on 18-wheeler accidents as soon as you can after the accident. An attorney can help you collect important evidence and seek full compensation. A competent attorney will be able to determine the worth of your claim and calculate damages. This will ensure you receive the most money for your losses and injuries. Injuries that result from an accident involving an 18-wheeler can be catastrophic and you have to make sure that your family members are taken by the financial side. The Callahan Law Firm, a Houston personal injury lawyer, can assist you to get the financial relief that you require to heal and continue living your life. The truck accident attorneys at Morrow & Sheppard LLP have experience representing clients who have been injured in commercial vehicle accidents throughout Texas. We are aware of the complexities of these types of cases and will fight to protect your rights. Settlements for 18-Wheeler accidents 18-wheeler accident victims and their families often receive substantial settlements. These can vary from tens of thousands to millions of dollars dependent on the specifics of the case. While there's no “average” settlement for a truck crash it is crucial to know that the amount you are awarded is contingent on a variety of factors such as your injuries, the responsible parties, and the amount of insurance coverage. Contributory negligence can also influence these elements. Insurance companies often reach out to victims of accidents to make offers before filing a lawsuit. These offers might appear plausible, but they're often significantly less than what victims are entitled to. It is important to contact an experienced attorney immediately after the accident with your truck. They can help you comprehend your situation and negotiate an acceptable settlement. The first step to settle your claim for an 18-wheeler crash is to collect all of the evidence you have. This includes medical documents, witness testimony, and any other information you can gather regarding the crash. This evidence will allow your lawyer to calculate the true value of your losses. The value is determined by both economic and non-economic damages which includes things like suffering and pain and suffering as well as loss of future earnings. Intangible losses, including mental and emotional trauma, are also frequently overlooked in personal injury cases. However, they can have significant effects on your financial recovery. These damages include the loss of companionship, mental distress, and support. Damages that may be included in a trucking accident settlement comprise everything from medical bills to property damage as well as compensation for wrongful demise. It can also include other damages that are not economic, like mental and emotional stress and pain. The majority of truck accidents result in more settlements than car accidents due to the seriousness of injuries. 18 wheeler accident attorney east orange can force an individual to be off work for a long time and result in expensive medical care and other costs.