What to Do If You Are Injured in an 18-Wheeler Accident
If you've suffered injuries in an 18-wheeler crash, you have the right to receive compensation for your injuries and the damages. A lawyer who has truck accident expertise can guide you through the procedure.
A crash involving an 18-wheeler is much more likely to cause serious injuries than a collision between two cars. The larger trucks are generally more difficult to control and can be very hard to stop.
Causes of 18-Wheeler accidents
If you've ever been involved in an 18-wheeler wreck you're aware of how scary it can be. These large vehicles are often packed with dangerous cargo that could be fatal if handled improperly. The drivers of these massive trucks are expected to be competent and attentive when they are behind the wheel, yet they're still vulnerable to accidents.
Drivers who are pressured to get goods to their destinations by an agreed-upon time can exceed the limits of safety for an 18-wheeler. They may choose to go over the speed limit that is posted or ignore traffic signals warning them of tight turns and curves. 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. This is particularly true when they're moving at a high speed and carrying large loads. If brakes fail, drivers can't stop in time to avoid an accident.
Drowsy Driving/ Falling Awake at the Wheel
Another main cause of 18 wheeler accidents is fatigue. Truckers work long hours to earn money and may not have enough sleep. They may also be taking prescription medications to treat cold symptoms or allergies which can cause insomnia.
They may not be familiar with the route they're traveling on and might try to consult an electronic map or system without pulling off the highway. This can lead to an accident as they might not be able to react in time to sudden changes in traffic conditions.
Unsafe Road Conditions
Poorly maintained roads can be especially dangerous for 18-wheelers. They could trap trucks in places they shouldn't be, causing them to skid or rollover.
This can be particularly difficult for truckers who typically spend much of their time driving along 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 estimates that a third all accidents that involve 18-wheelers have unsafe road conditions. These include poor design, a lack of pavement or maintenance as well as weather issues like heavy rain or snow.
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 are very dangerous. This is especially true when transporting hazardous liquids or chemicals that require extra care.
One of the most common injuries that occur in an accident involving an 18-wheeler is the TBI, or traumatic brain injury (TBI). Even though they are difficult to detect on a regular scan, even tiny lesions inside the head can have a devastating effect on the victim's quality of life and overall health.
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, traumatic brain injuries are frequent particularly during the course of a collision. The force of impact can cause brain damage, which can lead to serious health issues, cognitive issues memory loss, difficulties with communication and decision-making.
Spinal cord injuries are another type of injury quite common in collisions with large trucks. These injuries can be devastating for the family members of the victims, resulting in paralysis or even death.
Broken bones and fractures could be common injuries in truck accidents. Simple fractures may require the use of a cast for up to a week while more complicated fractures may require extensive surgery and a long recovery time.
Amputating a damaged limb will help to prevent further injury. This is a difficult and painful procedure.
Certain types of amputations may be done due to an injury to the nerve or an infection. Others cannot. Before deciding to undergo any type of surgery, it's essential to consult a physician to discuss your options.
Many victims of accidents involving trucks have suffered facial injuries such as burns, lacerations and blunt force trauma. This can result in permanent scarring, permanent disfigurement and psychological problems.
In addition to physical injuries victims and their families of a collision with a truck typically suffer from significant medical bills along with lost income and future damages due to their injuries. This is why it's crucial to seek the advice of a reputable lawyer who will help you get 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 some steps you can follow following an accident.
First, it is important to remain calm and focused on gathering the facts of what happened. It is possible to accidentally disclose details to the insurance company of the truck driver company, or even use it against you if you don't.
As a result, you should try to take down the names and contact details of everyone involved and their insurance and drivers' licenses. You should also speak with witnesses and any police officers at the scene.
Photograph the damage to both vehicles as well as other important details. These photos can be used as evidence in the future.
It's also a good idea to seek medical treatment for yourself and any passengers in the vehicle. This will allow you identify any injuries that aren't immediately apparent, like internal blood.
After you've been examined by an expert doctor, you must obtain x-rays and any other tests you might require in order to receive the correct treatment. This will allow you establish that your injuries were caused by the accident.
It is also important to hire a Houston lawyer who is specialized in 18-wheeler collisions as soon as possible after the accident. A lawyer can help collect important evidence and get the maximum amount of compensation.
The best lawyer will be able to determine the value of your injury claim and calculate your damages. This will ensure that you get the most compensation for your injuries and losses.
Injuries that result from an accident involving an 18-wheeler can be catastrophic, and you need to ensure that your family members are taken care of financially. The Callahan Law Firm, a Houston personal injury lawyer, can assist you to achieve the financial assistance you need to recover and get back to your life.
The truck accident attorneys at Morrow & Sheppard LLP have experience in representing clients who have suffered injuries from commercial vehicle accidents across Texas. We will defend your rights because we know the complexities in these types of cases.
Settlements for 18-Wheeler accidents
Families of 18-wheeler accident survivors typically receive substantial settlements. These settlements can vary from thousands to millions depending on the circumstances.
While there's no "average" settlement for a truck accident It is important to recognize that the amount you'll receive depends on a number of factors, including your injuries, the liable parties and the amount of insurance coverage. These factors are also affected by the amount of responsibility you took in the accident, which is referred to as contributory negligence.
Insurance companies frequently reach out to accident victims to make them offers before filing a lawsuit. These offers may look appealing, but they are usually significantly less than the victims deserve.
It is essential to contact an experienced attorney right away following the accident with your truck. They can help you analyze your case and negotiate an acceptable settlement.
Collecting all evidence is the first step in solving an 18-wheeler collision case. This includes medical records, witness testimony and any other information you can gather about the accident.
18 wheeler accident attorney kansas will help your lawyer determine the actual value of your losses. The value is determined by both economic and non-economic damages, including things like the suffering and pain, as well as the loss of future earnings.
Intangible losses, such as psychological and mental trauma, are often overlooked in personal injury claims, however they can have a significant impact on your financial recovery. These damages could include the loss of companionship, support, and mental stress.
In a settlement of a trucking accident, damages could range from medical bills and property damage, to the compensation for wrongful death. It can also include non-economic damages, such as emotional or mental stress as well as pain.
The settlements in truck accidents are usually higher than those in car crashes due to the seriousness of the injuries involved. A serious injury can force people to be off work for an extended period of time and can result in costly medical treatment and other expenses.