What to Do If You Are Injured in an 18-Wheeler Accident
If you've been injured by an 18-wheeler vehicle, you have the right to receive compensation for your injuries and the damages. An experienced truck accident lawyer can assist you in the process.
A collision involving a 18-wheeler is more likely to cause serious injuries than a collision between two cars. These larger trucks are often more difficult to control and can be extremely difficult to stop.
Causes of 18-Wheeler accidents
It is terrifying is to be involved in a car crash that involves 18 wheels. These large vehicles are often loaded with dangerous cargo that could be dangerous if handled incorrectly. 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 under pressure for delivering goods to their destinations by the earliest possible time may overdo it to the point of being unsafe for an 18-wheeler. They might choose to drive over the posted speed limit or ignore traffic signs warning them of sharp curves and turns. This puts innocent passengers 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 travel at a high rate and carrying large loads. If their brakes fail, they're not able to slow down enough to avoid an accident.
Sleepy driving or falling asleep at the Wheel
Another main cause of 18 wheeler accidents is fatigue. Truckers can work for long hours to make a profit, and do not get enough rest. They may also be taking prescription medications to treat allergies or cold symptoms that can result in drowsiness.
They might be unfamiliar with the route they're traveling on and might try to consult an electronic or map system, without turning off the highway. This could result in an accident since they might not be able react in time to sudden changes in traffic.
Unsafe Road Conditions
Poorly maintained roads can be especially dangerous for 18-wheelers. They can trap the trucks in places where they shouldn't be, and cause them to rollover or skid.
This can be particularly difficult for truckers, who usually spend a lot of time traveling through uncharted roads at night. It could also be risky when a trucker is faced with weather problems on these roads.
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration revealed that a third of accidents involving 18 wheelers is caused by unsafe road conditions. This could be due to poor pavement condition, faulty maintenance or design, or weather issues such as heavy snow or rain.
Common injuries in 18-wheeler accidents
The size and weight of an 18-wheeler -- a fully loaded semi truck that weighs 80,000 pounds or more can make collisions with this vehicle dangerous. This is especially the case when it is carrying dangerous chemicals or liquids that require extra care.
One of the most frequent injuries that can occur in an 18-wheeler crash is a TBI. (TBI). Although they're difficult to detect on a regular X-ray scan, the smallest lesions that can be found in the head can have a devastating impact on the person's quality of living and overall health.
These injuries are characterized by changes in mood, mental state and behavior. They can also result in physical disability, or even death.
Traumatic brain injuries are a common injury that can be found in 18-wheeler accidents, particularly when they occur in the head-on collision. The force of impact can cause brain damage, which can lead to serious health issues, cognitive issues memory loss, and difficulties with communication and decision-making.
Another type of injury that is seen often in collisions with large trucks is spinal injuries. These injuries can cause paralysis or even death for the victims and their families.
Broken bones and fractures may be a common occurrence in truck accidents. Simple fractures can require at least a week in a cast. On the other hand, complex fractures can involve extensive procedures and long recovery times.
Amputating a severely damaged limb will help to prevent further damage. This can be a difficult and painful procedure.
Certain types of amputations may be possible due to infection or nerve damage, but others aren't. Before deciding whether to undergo 18 wheeler accident attorney miami of surgery, it's essential to consult with a doctor to discuss your options.
Many victims of accidents involving trucks have suffered facial injuries such as lacerations, burns and blunt force trauma. This can result in permanent disfigurement, psychological issues and scarring.
In addition to suffering physical injuries in addition to physical harm, victims and their family members in a vehicle accident often face substantial medical expenses, lost wages and the potential for future damage resulting from their injuries. It is important to consult an attorney who is competent and can assist you in obtaining the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, lost income and other damages.
What to Do Following an 18-Wheeler Crash
It can be a struggle to know what to do if you or someone close to you has been injured in an accident with an 18-wheeler. There are, however, some steps you need to follow following an accident.
It is crucial to remain calm and gather the facts of what happened. You could accidentally divulge information to the truck driver's insurance company, or use it against you if you don't.
In the event of a collision it is recommended to take down the names and contact information of all the parties involved and also their insurance and drivers' licenses. You should also speak with witnesses and any police officers at the scene.
Take pictures of the damage on both vehicles, in addition to other important details. These photos could serve as evidence later in the case.
It is also recommended to seek medical treatment for yourself and any passengers in the vehicle. This will help you identify any injuries that aren't immediately obvious, such as internal blood.
After being examined by a doctor, it is recommended to get x-rays or any other tests that you may require in order to receive the correct treatment. This will help you establish that your injuries were caused by the accident.
In the end, it is crucial to hire an Houston attorney with expertise in 18-wheeler accidents as quickly as you can following the accident. A lawyer can help you collect important evidence and pursue a full compensation claim.
The right attorney will be able to determine the value of your injury claim and calculate the damages. This will ensure that you get the most amount of compensation for your injuries and losses.
Injury sustained in an accident involving an 18-wheeler can be devastating. You must ensure that your family's financial needs are fulfilled. The Callahan Law Firm, a Houston personal injury lawyer, can assist you to obtain the financial help you need to recover 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 across Texas. We will fight for your rights as we know the complexities in these types of cases.
Settlements for 18-Wheeler accidents
18-wheeler accident victims and their families typically recover substantial settlements. These settlements can range from thousands to millions depending on the circumstances.
There is no "average settlement" for a truck-related accident however it is important to be aware that the amount you receive is contingent on many factors, such as your injuries, the parties at fault and the insurance coverage that is available. These factors are also affected by the level of responsibility you had in the accident, which is known as contributory negligence.
Insurance companies often reach out to accident victims to make them offers before filing a lawsuit. These offers may appear reasonable, but they are usually much less than the victims deserve.
It is crucial to speak with an experienced attorney immediately after an accident with a truck. They can help you understand your case and negotiate the most favorable settlement.
The collection of all evidence is the first step to solving an 18-wheeler collision case. This includes medical records and witness testimony, as well as any other details regarding the incident.
This information will assist your lawyer in calculating the true value for your losses. This value will be built on your financial and non-economic damages, which can include things like loss of future earnings, as well as suffering and pain.
Intangible losses, such as psychological and mental trauma, are often not considered in personal injury cases, but can significantly impact your financial recovery. These damages could include the loss of companionship and support and mental anguish.
Damages that are included in a settlement for a trucking accident comprise everything from medical bills to property damage, as well as compensation for wrongful demise. It can also include non-economic damages, like emotional or mental stress, and pain.
The settlements in truck accidents are usually higher than those for car crashes because of the severity of injuries that are involved. Injuries that are severe can cause an individual to be off work for a lengthy period and could cause costly medical treatment and other costs.