What to Do If You Are Injured in an 18-Wheeler Accident
If you've been injured by an 18-wheeler, you are entitled to compensation for your injuries and the damages. An attorney who has truck accident experience can guide you through the procedure.
An 18-wheeler crash is more likely to cause serious injuries than a standard collision between two cars. The larger trucks are generally more difficult to control and can be extremely difficult to stop.
The causes of 18-wheeler accidents
You are aware of how frightening it can be to be in a car crash that involves 18 wheels. These massive vehicles are typically filled with dangerous cargo that could prove deadly if handled in the wrong way. The drivers of these large trucks are expected to be highly competent and cautious when they are behind the wheel, yet they're still at risk of accidents.
Drivers who are pressured for delivering goods to their destinations at an exact time could overdo it to the point of being unsafe for an 18-wheeler. They might decide to drive beyond the speed limit posted, or ignore traffic signs warning about tight curves and turns. This puts innocent motorists in danger of being hit by trucks.
Braking Problems
18-wheelers need more time to stop due to the size of their trailers. This is the case, particularly when they travel at a high rate and carrying large loads. If brakes fail, drivers won't stop in time to avoid an accident.
Sleepy driving or falling asleep at the Wheel
Driver fatigue is another major factor in accidents involving 18-wheelers. Truckers work long hours to make a profit and might not get enough rest. Some truckers might be taking prescription drugs to treat allergies or colds which can lead to drowsiness.
They may not be familiar with the road they're driving on and might attempt to use an electronic map or system without removing themselves from the highway. This can cause an accident because they may not be able react in time to sudden traffic changes.
Unsafe Road Conditions
Roads that are not maintained properly can be particularly hazardous for 18-wheelers. They can trap the trucks in areas where they shouldn't be, causing them to slide over or roll.
This can be especially difficult for truckers, who usually spend much of their time driving through uncharted roads at night. It can also be risky when a trucker is faced with conditions that are not suitable for driving on these roads.
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration found that a third of all accidents involving 18 wheelers is caused by unsafe road conditions. These conditions can include poor pavement condition, faulty maintenance or design, or weather issues such as heavy snow or rain.
Common injuries in 18 Wheeler Accidents
Collisions with an 18-wheeler, semi truck that is fully loaded and weighs at least 80,000 pounds are extremely hazardous. This is true especially when the 18-wheeler is carrying hazardous chemical or liquids.
A traumatized brain injury is one of the most common injuries that happen in 18-wheeler crashes. Tiny lesions in the brain are difficult to spot in regular X-rays, but they can wreak havoc on the health of the person and quality of life.
These injuries are manifested 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 during an accident that is head-on. The force of the impact can cause brain damage, which could cause serious health problems as well as cognitive issues memory loss, as well as problems with communication and decision-making.
Another type of injury that is seen often in collisions with large trucks is spinal cord injuries. These injuries can lead to paralysis or even death for victims and their families.
Broken bones and fractures may be a common occurrence in truck accidents. Simple fractures can require an in-hospital cast for up to a week, while more complex fractures can require extensive surgery and a lengthy recovery period.
If a limb is badly damaged, it can be removed to avoid further damage. This can be an extremely painful and complicated procedure.
Certain types of amputations can be performed because of an infection or a permanent nerve damage. Others are not. Before you decide to undergo any surgery, it's important to consult a physician to discuss your options.
Many victims in truck crashes have suffered facial injuries such as burns, laceration, and blunt force trauma. This can lead to permanent disfigurement, psychological problems and scarring.
In addition to suffering physical injury, the victims and their family members of a truck accident are often left with substantial medical expenses, lost earnings, and future losses resulting from their injuries. It is crucial to talk with an attorney who has the right qualifications and can assist you in getting the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, lost income, and other damages.
What to do following an 18-Wheeler Crash
If you or a loved one is injured in a crash with an 18-wheeler vehicle, it can be a challenge to figure out what to do next. There are a few steps you could follow following an accident.
It is essential to remain in a calm state and collect the facts regarding what happened. If you do not do this, you could reveal information that could be used against you by the truck driver or his insurance company.
In the event of a collision, you should try to gather the names and contact numbers of everyone involved as well as their insurance and drivers' licenses. Also, you should speak to witnesses and any police officers at the scene.
Take photographs of the damage on both vehicles, in addition to other important details. These photos can be used as evidence in the future.
The person who is in the vehicle should also seek medical assistance. This will allow you identify any injuries which are not immediately obvious, for instance, internal blood.
Once you've been evaluated by a medical professional ensure that you get an x-ray and any other tests necessary for you to receive the appropriate treatment. This will allow you prove that your injuries were caused by the accident.
It is also essential to retain an attorney in Houston who is specialized in 18-wheeler accident cases as soon as possible after the accident. An attorney can help you gather evidence important to pursue a full compensation claim.
An experienced attorney can determine the value of your injury claim and calculate the damages. This will ensure that you receive the maximum amount of compensation for your injuries and losses.
The injuries sustained in an accident involving an 18-wheeler may be devastating. You need to ensure that your family's financial requirements are taken care of. A Houston personal injury attorney from The Callahan Law Firm can assist you in obtaining the financial relief you require to recover from your injuries and continue with your life.
The truck accident lawyers at Morrow & Sheppard LLP are adept at representing clients who have been injured in commercial vehicle accidents throughout Texas. We understand the complexities of these kinds of cases and will fight hard for your rights.
Settlements in 18-Wheeler Car Accidents
Families of victims of the 18-wheeler crash typically receive substantial settlements. They can be anything from tens to thousands to millions of dollars, dependent on the circumstances of the case.
There isn't an "average settlement" for a car accident however it is important to know that the amount you get is contingent on many factors, such as your injuries and the liable parties, and the insurance coverage that is available. Contributory negligence may also affect these variables.
A common strategy used by insurance companies is to reach out to victims of accidents and offer to pay prior to filing a lawsuit. The offers may seem like they're reasonable, but they're typically significantly less than what victims deserve.
If you have been in an accident involving a truck it is crucial to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as you can. These attorneys can help you comprehend your situation and negotiate the best settlement.
18 wheeler accident case gary in settling your 18-wheeler accident claim is to gather all the evidence you have. This includes medical records as well as witness testimony as well any other information regarding the incident.
Getting this evidence will allow your lawyer to calculate the true value of your losses. This value is based on damages that are both economic and non-economic such as suffering and suffering, as well as loss of future earnings.
Intangible damages, such as psychological and mental trauma, are often omitted in personal injury claims, however they can be significant to your financial recovery. These damages could include the loss of companionship and support, and mental distress.
In a settlement of trucking accidents, damages could range from medical bills and property damage to the compensation for wrongful death. They may also include non-economic damages, such as emotional and mental stress as well as pain.
The majority of truck accidents result in larger settlements than car accidents due to the severity of injuries. Injuries that are severe can cause people to be off work for a prolonged period of time, and could cause expensive medical care and other expenses.