What to Do If You Are Injured in an 18-Wheeler Accident
If you've suffered injuries in an 18-wheeler accident, you are entitled to compensation for your injuries and the damages. A skilled truck accident lawyer can assist you in the process.
A collision involving a 18-wheeler is more likely cause serious injuries than a collision between two cars. These trucks are difficult to stop and are difficult to control.
Causes of 18-wheeler accident
You know how terrifying it can be to be in a crash involving an 18-wheeler. These massive vehicles can be loaded with dangerous cargo that could cause harm in the wrong hands. The drivers of these large trucks are expected to be highly competent and cautious behind the wheel, however they're still vulnerable to accidents.
Drivers who are pressured for delivering goods to their destinations at the earliest possible time may push themselves beyond what's safe for an 18-wheeler. They might choose to drive above the speed limit that is posted or ignore traffic signs warning them of sharp turns and curves. This puts innocent pedestrians at risk of being struck by a truck.
Braking Problems
Due to the huge size of their trailers, 18-wheelers need more time to stop than passenger vehicles. This is especially true if they're travelling at high speed and carrying heavy loads. If their brakes fail they won't be able to slow down enough to avoid collision.
Drowsy driving/Failing to fall asleep at the Wheel
Another reason for 18 wheeler accidents is driver fatigue. Truckers could work for long hours to earn a profit and may not have enough rest. They could also be taking prescription medications to help treat allergies or cold symptoms that can lead to drowsiness.
They might not be acquainted with the road and try to use a navigation system or map without stopping. This could lead to an accident because they may not be able to react in time to sudden changes in traffic.
Unsafe Road Conditions
Poorly maintained roads can be particularly hazardous for 18-wheelers. They could trap trucks in places they shouldn't be, causing them to skid or even roll over.
This can be especially difficult for truckers, who frequently spend many hours traveling down unknown roadways at night. This is particularly risky for truckers who spend much of their time on roads that are not well-lit at night.
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration states that a third of all accidents that involve 18-wheelers have unsafe road conditions. This includes poor road design, inadequate pavement or maintenance, and climate problems such as heavy rain or snow.
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 could make collisions with this type of vehicle extremely risky. This is especially true when the 18-wheeler has chemical or liquids.
A traumatized brain injury is among of the most common accidents that occur in 18-wheeler crashes. Even though they're difficult to detect with a standard X-ray, small lesions on the head can have a devastating impact on the victim's quality of life and health.
These injuries are defined as an alteration in mood, mental state, and behavior. They can also result in physical disability or death.
In 18-wheeler accidents, traumatic brain injuries are quite common, especially when they happen in the course of the course of a collision. The force of the impact can cause brain damage, which could lead to serious health issues, cognitive difficulties memory loss, as well as issues in making decisions and communicating.
Spinal cord injuries are a different type of injury that is frequently found in collisions with large trucks. These injuries can be catastrophic for the victims and their families that can result in paralysis, or death.
Broken bones and fractures are another common injury that occurs in truck accidents. Simple fractures may require at least a week in a cast. However, complex fractures can require lengthy surgeries and lengthy recovery periods.
Amputation of a limb with a severe injury can help prevent further damage. This is a difficult and painful procedure.
Certain types of amputations may be possible because of infection or permanent nerve damage, but other types of amputations aren't. Before deciding whether to undergo any surgery, it's important to consult with a doctor to discuss your options.
Many victims in truck crashes have suffered facial injuries, such as burns, laceration, and blunt force trauma. This could lead to permanent disfigurement, psychological issues and scarring.
In addition to suffering physical injury, the victims and their relatives of a car accident are often faced with substantial medical bills, lost wages and future losses resulting from their injuries. It is important to consult a lawyer who is qualified and can assist you with getting the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, lost income and other damages.
What to do After an 18-Wheeler Car Accident
If you or someone you love is injured in a collision with an 18-wheeler, it may be a bit difficult to determine what to do next. There are a few steps you could take after an accident.
It is essential to remain at peace and take note of the facts regarding what happened. You may accidentally reveal information to the truck driver's insurance company, or use it against you if you don't.
Therefore, you should try to collect all the names, contact information and insurance details of all the parties involved. It is also advisable to speak with any witnesses and police officers that are at the scene.
Take photos of the damage on both vehicles as well as other important details. These photos can be used as evidence later on in the case.
It's also a good idea to seek medical attention for yourself as well as any passengers in the vehicle. This will help you recognize any injuries that aren't immediately obvious like internal bleeding.
After being examined by a medical professional ensure you obtain the x-rays as well as any other tests necessary to get the appropriate treatment. This will help you prove that the crash caused your injuries.
It is also crucial to retain an attorney in Houston who specializes in 18-wheeler collisions as soon as you can following the accident. An attorney can help you gather evidence that is crucial and pursue a full compensation claim.
The right attorney can determine the worth of your claim and calculate damages. This will ensure that you receive the most compensation for your losses and injuries.
Injuries caused by an 18-wheeler crash can be catastrophic and you have to ensure that your family members are taken to financial security. A Houston personal injury lawyer from The Callahan Law Firm can help you get the financial relief you need to heal from your injuries and move forward with your life.
The truck accident attorneys at Morrow & Sheppard LLP have expertise in representing clients who have been injured in commercial vehicle crashes across Texas. We understand the complexities of these kinds of cases and will fight hard for your rights.
Settlements in 18-Wheeler Car Accidents
18-wheeler accident victims and their families frequently get substantial settlements. These settlements range from thousands to billions depending on the circumstances.
While there is no "average" settlement for a truck crash it is crucial to know that the amount of compensation you receive is contingent on a variety of factors, including your injuries, the responsible parties, and the amount of available insurance coverage. These elements can also be affected by the amount of responsibility you played in the accident, which is known as the contributory negligence.
Insurance companies frequently contact victims of accidents to make offers before they file a lawsuit. These offers might seem reasonable, but are often substantially less than what the compensation that victims deserve.
It is crucial to speak with an experienced attorney immediately after an accident with a truck. They can help you learn more about your case and negotiate the best settlement.
The collection of all evidence is the first step in settle an 18-wheeler accident case. 18 wheeler accident lawyer longmont includes medical records, witness testimony as well as any other information related to the incident.
This information will assist your lawyer in calculating the actual value of your losses. The value will be calculated built on your financial and non-economic damages, which can include things like the loss of future earnings as well as suffering and pain.
Intangible injuries, such as psychological and mental trauma, are often not considered in personal injury cases, but can be significant to your financial recovery. These damages could include the loss of companionship and support, and mental distress.
Damages that are included in a trucking accident settlement can range from medical expenses to property damage and compensation for wrongful demise. They may also include non-economic damages, such as emotional or mental stress and pain.
Settlements for truck accidents tend to be higher than those in car crashes due to the seriousness of the injuries that are involved. A serious injury can force the person to miss work for a lengthy period, and they can cause costly medical treatment and other expenses.