18 Wheeler Accidents Attorneys It's Not As Hard As You Think
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 the damages. An attorney who has truck accident experience can guide you through the procedure. A crash involving 18 wheels is more likely to result in serious injuries than a typical collision between two vehicles. These larger trucks can be difficult to stop and difficult to control. The causes of 18-wheeler accidents If you've ever been in an 18-wheeler crash you're aware of how scary it can be. These massive vehicles are packed with dangerous cargo that can be deadly in the wrong hands. These big trucks have to be driven by drivers who are extremely vigilant and experienced, but they still can get into accidents. Drivers under pressure to deliver their goods at a specific time may over-exceed the limit of safety for an 18-wheeler. They might choose to drive beyond the speed limit that is posted or ignore traffic warnings that warn them of tight curves and turns. This puts innocent motorists at risk of being hit by a truck. Braking Problems Due to the size of their trailers, 18-wheelers have more time to stop than passenger vehicles. 18 wheeler accident lawsuit centennial is the case, particularly if they are traveling at a high rate and carrying heavy loads. If their brakes fail they're not able to slow down enough to avoid collision. Drowsy Driving/ Falling Awake at the Wheel Driver fatigue is another main factor in accidents involving 18-wheelers. Truckers may work long hours in order to make money, and may not have enough rest. They may also be taking prescription medications to help treat allergies or cold symptoms that can cause tiredness. They may not be familiar with the road they're on and may try to consult an electronic or map system without removing themselves from 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 roads are particularly hazardous for 18-wheelers. They could trap trucks in places they shouldn't and cause them slide or roll over. This can be particularly challenging for truckers who typically spend much of their time driving on unmarked roads at night. It can also be dangerous when a trucker is faced with conditions that are not suitable for driving on these roads. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration states that a third all accidents involving 18-wheelers involve unsafe road conditions. These conditions can be caused by poor design, a lack of pavement or maintenance as well as conditions like heavy snow or rain. Common injuries that occur in 18 Wheeler Accidents The size and weight of an 18-wheeler — a fully loaded semi truck that weighs up to 80,000 pounds or more could make collisions with this type of vehicle extremely risky. This is especially true when the 18-wheeler has chemical or liquids. A traumatic brain injury is one of the most frequent injuries that happen in 18-wheeler crashes. Tiny lesions in the brain are difficult to detect on regular X-rays. However, they can cause havoc to the patient's health and quality of life. These injuries are defined as an alteration in mental state, mood and behavior. They can also lead to physical disability or even death. In 18-wheeler accidents, brain injuries are common particularly in the course of an accident. The force of the collision can cause brain injury, which can lead to serious health issues, cognitive difficulties memory loss, as well as problems in making decisions and communicating. Spinal cord injuries are another kind of injury that is quite common in collisions with big trucks. These injuries can result in paralysis or even death for victims and their family members. Broken bones and fractures are also a common injury that happens in truck crashes. Simple fractures can require an entire week or more in a cast, whereas complicated fractures may require extensive surgeries and lengthy recovery periods. Amputating a limb that has been severely damaged can help prevent further injury. This can be a difficult and painful 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, it is important to speak to a doctor to discuss your options. Many victims of truck accidents have suffered facial injuries, such as burns, cuts, and lacerations as well as blunt force trauma. It can result in permanent disfigurement, scarring and psychological problems. In addition to physical injuries as well as physical injuries, the families of victims of a collision with a truck typically have significant medical bills loss of income, as well as future damages resulting from their injuries. This is why it's important to seek the counsel of a skilled lawyer who can help obtain the compensation you require for medical expenses, lost wages and other damages. What to do After an 18-Wheeler Collision If you or someone you love is injured in a crash with an 18-wheeler, it could be a bit difficult to determine what to do next. There are several steps you can follow following an accident. It is important to stay in a calm state and collect the facts regarding what happened. You could unintentionally reveal details to the insurance company of the truck driver company, or use it against you if you don't. In the event of a collision it is recommended to get the names and contact details of all the parties involved as well as their insurance and driver's licenses. It is also advisable to speak with 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. You and any passengers should also seek medical assistance. This will allow you recognize any injuries which are not immediately obvious, for instance, internal blood. After being examined by a medical professional, ensure that you get x-rays and any other tests that may be necessary for you to receive the right treatment. This will allow you to prove that your injuries were caused by the accident. It is also important to hire an attorney in Houston who is specialized in 18-wheeler collisions as soon as you can following the accident. A lawyer can help collect evidence that is crucial and seek the maximum amount of compensation. The right attorney can determine the value of your claim and calculate damages. This will ensure you receive the maximum amount of compensation for your losses and injuries. A traumatic injury sustained during an accident involving an 18-wheeler could be devastating. You must ensure that your family's financial needs are taken care of. The Callahan Law Firm, a Houston personal injury lawyer, can assist you to find the financial relief you need to recover and move on with your life. The truck accident lawyers at Morrow & Sheppard LLP are skilled in representing injured clients in commercial vehicle accidents throughout Texas. We will fight for your rights as we understand the complexities involved in these kinds of cases. Settlements for 18-Wheeler accident settlements Families of victims of accidents involving 18-wheelers often receive substantial settlements. These settlements be as high as millions dependent on the circumstances. There isn't an “average settlement” for a truck-related accident It's important to know that the amount you receive is contingent upon a variety of factors like your injuries, the parties at fault and the insurance coverage that is available. These variables can also be affected by the degree of liability you took in the accident, also known as contributing negligence. Insurance companies often contact victims of accidents to offer them offers before filing a lawsuit. These offers may look appealing, but they are frequently significantly less than what victims deserve. If you've been involved in an accident involving trucks you should seek an experienced lawyer as quickly as possible. They can help you comprehend your situation and negotiate a settlement that is fair. The first step in settling your claim for an 18-wheeler crash is to gather all the evidence you have. This includes medical records, witness testimony and any other information you may have regarding the accident. Having this evidence will allow your lawyer to determine the actual value of your losses. The value is determined by both economic and non-economic damages that includes things like suffering and suffering, as well as loss of future earnings. Intangible losses, including emotional and mental trauma are also frequently left out of personal injury cases, but they can have a significant impact on your financial recovery. These damages include loss of companionship, mental anguish and support. In a settlement for trucking accidents, damages may range from medical expenses and property damage to the compensation for wrongful death. They may also include non-economic damages, such as mental and emotional stress and pain. Truck accidents typically result in more settlements than car accidents due to the severity of injuries. Severe injuries may cause people to be off work for a prolonged period of time and result in costly medical treatment and other expenses.