The 10 Most Terrifying Things About 18 Wheeler Accidents Attorneys
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 help you navigate the process.
A collision involving a 18-wheeler is more likely cause serious injuries than a collision involving two cars. These trucks are difficult to stop and hard to control.
The causes of 18-wheeler accidents
It is terrifying can be to be in an 18-wheeler crash. These massive vehicles are typically packed with dangerous cargo that could prove dangerous if handled incorrectly. These massive trucks must be driven by drivers who are cautious and skilled, however they still can get into accidents.
Drivers who are pressured to get their goods to their destinations at an agreed-upon time can push themselves beyond what's safe for an 18-wheeler. They might choose to drive over the speed limit that is posted or ignore traffic signs that warn about tight curves and turns. This puts innocent passengers at risk of being hit by a truck.
Braking Problems
Due to the massive size of their trailers, 18-wheelers require more time to stop than passenger vehicles. This is particularly true when they travel at high speeds and carrying heavy loads. If brakes fail, drivers are unable to stop fast enough to prevent an accident.
Drowsy Driving/ Falling Awake at the Wheel
Another major reason for 18 wheeler accidents is fatigue. Truckers work long hours to make a profit and may not be able to sleep enough. Some truckers may be taking prescription medications to treat allergies or colds and can result in drowsiness.
They might not be familiar with the road they're driving on and might try to consult an electronic or map system without removing themselves from the highway. This can lead to an accident since they may not be prepared to react in time to sudden changes in traffic conditions.
Unsafe Road Conditions
Roads that are not maintained properly are particularly dangerous for 18-wheelers. They can trap the trucks in places should not be there and cause them to skid or roll over.
Truckers who spend lots of time at night driving on unfamiliar roads might have a difficult time. This can be particularly dangerous for truckers who spend lots of time on roads that are not well-lit at night.
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration states that a third of all accidents involving 18-wheelers result from unsafe road conditions. These include poor road design, inadequate pavement or maintenance, as well as climate issues such as heavy snow or rain.
Common injuries in 18-wheeler accidents
The weight and size of an 18-wheeler -- an fully loaded semi truck that weighs 80,000 pounds or more -- makes collisions with this type of vehicle extremely risky. This is particularly true when traveling with a load of dangerous chemicals or liquids that require extra caution.
A traumatized brain injury is among of the most frequent accidents that occur in 18-wheeler crashes. Small lesions in the brain are difficult to detect in regular X-rays, but they can wreak havoc on the health of the victim and their quality of life.
These injuries are characterised by changes in mood, mental state and behavior. They may also cause physical disability or death.
Traumatic brain injuries are a frequent injury that is seen in 18-wheeler accidents, particularly when they occur in head-on collisions. The force of impact could cause brain damage, which could cause serious health issues such as cognitive impairment memory loss, as well as difficulties in 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 the victims and their families.
Broken bones and fractures are a frequent injury in truck crashes. Simple fractures can require a week or more in a cast. However, complex fractures can require lengthy surgeries and lengthy recovery periods.
18 wheeler accident settlement mission viejo of a limb with a severe injury can prevent further damage. This is a difficult and painful procedure.
Certain types of amputations are able to be done due to an injury to the nerve or an infection. Others are not. Before deciding on any surgery, it's important to consult a physician to discuss your options.
Many of the victims of truck crashes have suffered facial injuries including laceration, burns, and blunt force trauma. This can cause permanent disfigurement, psychological problems and scarring.
In addition to physical injuries the victims and their families of a trucking accident often suffer from significant medical bills along with lost income and future damages related to their injuries. This is why it is essential to seek out the counsel of a skilled lawyer who can assist you to find the money you need to pay for your medical expenses, lost wages and other damages.
What to do after an 18-Wheeler Car Crash
It can be a challenge to know what to do in the event that you or someone else close to you has been injured in an accident with an 18-wheeler. There are a few steps you can follow following an accident.
It is important to stay calm and gather the facts about what happened. You could accidentally divulge details to the truck driver's insurance company, or even use it against you if you don't.
In the event of a collision you should gather the names and contact numbers of all involved parties and also their insurance and driver's licenses. You should also talk 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 could be used as evidence later on in the case.
It is also a good idea to seek medical treatment for yourself and any passengers in the vehicle. This will help you determine any injuries that aren't immediately apparent like internal bleeding.
After being examined by a doctor, you should get x-rays or any other tests you may need in order to receive the correct treatment. This will allow you to prove that your injuries were caused by the accident.
It is also crucial to hire an attorney in Houston who specializes on 18-wheeler accident cases as soon as you can following the accident. A lawyer can help you collect evidence that is crucial and seek full compensation.
An experienced lawyer can determine the worth of your claim and calculate damages. This will ensure that you receive the maximum amount of compensation for your injuries and losses.
Injuries sustained in an 18-wheeler accident can be devastating and you have to ensure that your family is taken care of financially. A Houston personal injury lawyer from The Callahan Law Firm can help you pursue the financial relief you need to heal from your injuries and get 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 understand the complexity of these types of cases and will fight for your rights.
Settlements for 18-Wheeler accidents
18-wheeler accident victims and their families usually receive significant settlements. These settlements can be as high as millions depending on the circumstances.
While there isn't an "average" truck accident settlement, it's important to understand that the amount you are awarded depends on a number of factors that include your injuries, the responsible parties, and the amount of available insurance coverage. Contributory negligence may also affect these elements.
Insurance companies often contact accident victims to make them offers before filing a lawsuit. These offers might seem reasonable, but they are often substantially less than what the victims deserve.
It is crucial to contact an experienced attorney as soon as you notice the accident with your truck. These lawyers can help learn more about your case and negotiate the best possible settlement.
The first step to settle your 18-wheeler accident claim is to gather all the evidence you have. This includes medical records, witness testimony, and any other information that you have about the crash.
The evidence you gather will enable your lawyer to calculate the actual value of your losses. This value is based on the economic and non-economic costs which includes things like the suffering and pain, as well as the loss of future earnings.
Intangible damages, such as psychological and mental trauma are often not considered in personal injury claims, however they can have a significant impact on your financial recovery. These damages include the loss of companionship, mental anguish and support.
In a settlement agreement for the aftermath of a trucking accident, the damages may range from medical expenses and property damage, to the compensation for wrongful death. They can also include noneconomic damages, like mental or emotional stress and pain.
Accidents involving trucks typically result in higher settlements than car accidents due to the severity of injuries. Severe injuries can cause individuals to be absent from work for long periods and result in costly medical care and other costs.