What to Do If You Are Injured in an 18-Wheeler Accident
If you've been injured by an 18-wheeler, then you are entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages. A skilled lawyer for truck accidents can assist you through the process.
A crash involving an 18-wheeler is more likely to cause serious injuries than a collision involving two cars. These trucks are difficult to stop and hard to control.
Causes of 18-wheeler accidents
If you've been in 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 big trucks are expected be highly competent and attentive behind the wheel, however they're still at risk of accidents.
Drivers under pressure to deliver items at a particular time might go beyond what is safe for an 18 wheeler. They may choose to drive beyond the speed limit that is posted or ignore traffic signals warning them of sharp curves and turns. This puts innocent pedestrians at risk of being struck by trucks.
Braking Problems
18-wheelers require longer time to stop due to the size of their trailers. This is true, especially when they're moving at a high rate and carrying large loads. If their brakes fail, they're not able to slow down enough to avoid the possibility of crashing.
Drowsy driving/Failing to fall asleep at the Wheel
Another major cause of 18 wheeler accidents is fatigue. Truckers work for long hours to earn a profit and may not have enough sleep. They may also be taking prescription drugs to combat allergies or cold symptoms that can result in drowsiness.
They may not be familiar with the road, and they may attempt to consult maps or a navigation system without stopping. 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 are particularly dangerous for 18-wheelers. They can trap the trucks in places where they shouldn't be, causing them to skid or roll over.
This can be particularly challenging for truckers, who often spend a lot of time traveling along unmarked roads at night. This is particularly risky for truckers who spend long periods of time on roads that are not well-lit at night.
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration estimates that a third all accidents involving 18-wheelers result from unsafe road conditions. These conditions include poor road design, inadequate pavement or maintenance, as well as climate issues such as heavy snow or rain.
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 extremely hazardous. 18 wheeler accident lawyer frisco is especially true when transporting dangerous chemicals or hazardous liquids that require extra care.
A traumatized brain injury is one of the most frequent injuries that occur in 18-wheeler accidents. Small lesions in the brain are hard to detect even in X-rays that are routinely taken, but they can wreak havoc on the patient's health and quality of life.
These injuries are manifested by changes in mental state, mood and behavior. They can also lead to physical disabilities or even death.
Traumatic brain injuries are a common injury that is seen in 18-wheeler crashes, particularly when they occur during a head-on collision. The force of the impact can cause brain damage, which could cause serious health problems and cognitive issues memory loss, as well as issues with communication and decision-making.
Spinal cord injuries are yet another type of injury very common in collisions with large trucks. These injuries can result in paralysis or even death for the victims and their family members.
Broken bones and fractures are also a common injury in truck crashes. Simple fractures may require an entire week or more in a cast. However, complicated fractures may require extensive procedures and long recovery times.
Amputating a severely damaged limb can prevent further injury. This can be a difficult and painful procedure.
Certain types of amputations are able to be performed because of an infection or permanent nerve damage. Others cannot. It is crucial to consult an expert and think about your options prior to deciding to undergo any surgical procedure.
Many victims of truck accidents have suffered facial injuries including burns, lacerations, and blunt force trauma. This can result in permanent disfigurement, psychological issues, and scarring.
In addition to suffering physical injury, the victims and their family members in a vehicle accident are often left with significant medical expenses, lost wages and other future damages resulting from their injuries. This is why it's important to seek the counsel of a reputable lawyer who can help obtain the compensation you require for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
What should you do following an 18-Wheeler Auto Accident
If you or a loved one is injured in a crash with an 18-wheeler, it could be a challenge to figure out what to do next. There are a few actions you should take following an accident.
It is first important to remain at peace and focused on obtaining the facts of what transpired. If you do not, you could inadvertently reveal details that could be used against you by the truck driver or his insurance company.
As a result it is important to get the names and contact details of all involved parties as well as their insurance and driver's licenses. Also, you should speak to witnesses and any police officers at the scene.
You should also take photos of the vehicle damage and other important details on the scene. These photos can be used as evidence in the future.
The person who is in the vehicle should also seek medical care. This can help you identify any injuries that aren't immediately apparent, such as internal bleeding.
After you've been assessed by a medical professional, make sure to get an x-ray and any other tests essential to receive the right treatment. This will enable you to prove that the crash caused your injuries.
Additionally, it is essential to find an Houston attorney with expertise in 18-wheeler accidents as soon as possible following the accident. A lawyer can help you collect evidence that is crucial and seek full compensation.
The right attorney can determine the value of your claim and calculate damages. This will ensure that you receive the maximum amount of compensation for your losses and injuries.
A traumatic injury sustained during an accident involving a 18-wheeler can be devastating. It is essential to ensure that your family's financial requirements are satisfied. The Callahan Law Firm, a Houston personal injury lawyer, can help you obtain the financial help you require to recuperate and move on with your life.
The lawyers for truck accidents at Morrow & Sheppard LLP have experience representing clients who have suffered injuries in commercial vehicle accidents across Texas. We understand the complexities involved in these kinds of cases and will fight to protect your rights.
Settlements in 18-Wheeler Car Accidents
18-wheeler accident victims and their families typically recover substantial settlements. Settlements can be as high as millions depending on the circumstances.
There isn't an "average settlement" for a car accident but it's important know that the amount you'll get is contingent on a variety of factors, including your injuries, the parties at fault, and the insurance coverage that is available. Contributory negligence can also impact these aspects.
A common strategy used by insurance companies is to call victims of accidents and offer offers well before they even file lawsuits. These offers might seem reasonable, but they are often substantially less than what the compensation that victims deserve.
It is crucial to contact an experienced attorney right away following a trucking crash. These lawyers can help analyze your case and negotiate a fair settlement.
The first step in settling your claim for an 18-wheeler crash is to gather all of the evidence you have. This includes medical records as well as witness testimony, as well as any other details regarding the accident.
The evidence you gather will enable your lawyer to determine the true value of your losses. This value will be based on your economic and non-economic damages. These include things like the loss of future earnings, and pain and suffering.
Intangible damages, such as psychological and mental trauma are often not considered in personal injury lawsuits, but can be significant to your financial recovery. These damages include loss of companionship, mental anxiety and emotional stress.
Damages that are included in a settlement for trucking accidents include everything from medical costs to property damage as well as wrongful death compensation. They can also cover non-economic damages like emotional and mental stress as well as pain.
The settlements in truck accidents are typically larger than those for car crashes due to the severity of injuries that are involved. A serious injury can force individuals to be absent from work for a lengthy period and could result in costly medical treatments and other expenses.