Lawyer for 18-Wheeler Truck Accident: How a Lawyer Can Help with Your 18-Wheeler Accident Claim
When involved in an 18-wheeler truck accident, the aftermath can be devastating. The sheer size and weight of these massive vehicles often lead to catastrophic consequences for those involved in the collision. If you or a loved one has been injured in such an accident, it is crucial to have a skilled lawyer for 18-wheeler truck accident claims by your side to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
At Tennessee Accident Law, we have years of experience representing victims of truck accidents and fighting for their rights in the face of corporate and insurance giants. This article will outline how a lawyer can assist you in navigating the complexities of an 18-wheeler accident claim and help you secure the compensation you need to recover.
Call us now at 615-212-9866 or complete our free case evaluation form to get started.
What Are 18-Wheeler Truck Accidents and Why Are They Dangerous?
Characteristics of 18-Wheeler Trucks
18-wheeler trucks, also known as semi-trucks or tractor-trailers, are large commercial vehicles that can weigh up to 80,000 pounds or more when fully loaded. These trucks are designed for transporting goods across long distances, and their massive size and weight pose unique challenges on the road. The 18 wheels provide stability for these vehicles, but they also contribute to the length, making them difficult to maneuver. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can be over 70 feet long, which is nearly the length of a basketball court. This makes them prone to wider turns, longer stopping distances, and greater potential for accidents, especially in busy traffic conditions.
The Severe Consequences of 18-Wheeler Accidents
The consequences of an 18-wheeler truck accident are often far more severe than accidents involving smaller vehicles. Due to the weight and size of the truck, accidents frequently result in serious injuries or fatalities for those in passenger vehicles. Common injuries from such accidents include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and internal injuries. In addition, the physical damage to property is typically extensive. The aftermath of these accidents often leads to lengthy hospital stays, rehabilitation, and significant emotional distress for the victims and their families. Due to these severe consequences, having a lawyer for 18-wheeler truck accident cases becomes essential to help you through the process of obtaining the compensation you need.
How an Experienced Lawyer Can Help with Your 18-Wheeler Accident Claim
An experienced lawyer for 18-wheeler truck accident claims can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Below are some ways a skilled attorney can assist you in securing the compensation you deserve after an accident.
Investigating the Cause of the Accident
One of the first steps in handling an 18-wheeler truck accident claim is identifying the cause of the accident. This process can be complicated, as there may be multiple contributing factors, such as driver error, mechanical failure, or poor road conditions. An experienced lawyer will have access to the necessary resources and expert witnesses to conduct a thorough investigation. They will examine the truck’s maintenance history, analyze driver logs, review surveillance footage, and work with accident reconstructionists to determine liability.
In many cases, the cause of an 18-wheeler accident is not immediately clear. However, a skilled lawyer will ensure that every angle is explored, which may reveal negligence on the part of the trucking company, driver, or other parties. This detailed investigation is crucial to building a strong case and securing the compensation you deserve.
Ensuring You Receive Full Compensation for Your Injuries
Truck accidents often result in significant injuries, and victims are entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. However, insurance companies and trucking companies will often try to minimize the payout to protect their bottom line. A lawyer for 18-wheeler truck accident cases will fight to ensure that you receive full compensation for all of your damages, not just the immediate medical bills.
Your attorney will carefully assess your situation, including future medical needs, lost earning potential, and long-term rehabilitation costs. They will ensure that your compensation reflects both your current and future needs, helping you secure a stable future after the accident.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Truck Accidents and How a Lawyer Can Address Them
Understanding the causes of 18-wheeler truck accidents is vital in building a strong legal case. Several factors contribute to these accidents, and a skilled lawyer for 18-wheeler truck accident cases can pinpoint the root causes to determine liability. Identifying the cause of the crash is crucial in ensuring that the responsible parties are held accountable.
Driver Fatigue and Hours-of-Service Violations
One of the leading causes of truck accidents is driver fatigue. Due to long working hours and tight deadlines, truck drivers may feel pressure to exceed federally mandated driving limits. These violations of hours-of-service regulations can lead to dangerously tired drivers who may fall asleep at the wheel, react slower to traffic conditions, or make poor decisions.
A lawyer for 18-wheeler truck accident claims will investigate the driver’s logbooks and other records to determine if they were complying with federal driving regulations. If the driver was fatigued or overworked, your attorney will use this information to strengthen your case and hold the trucking company or driver responsible for their negligence.
Improper Truck Maintenance
Another common cause of 18-wheeler accidents is poor maintenance of the truck. Semi-trucks require regular maintenance to keep them running safely. Failure to inspect and repair critical parts, such as the brakes, tires, or lights, can result in serious accidents. Brake failure, for instance, is a leading cause of many truck crashes.
A lawyer for 18-wheeler truck accident cases can request maintenance records from the trucking company to ensure that the truck was properly inspected and maintained. If the trucking company failed to meet these obligations, they may be held liable for any accidents caused by faulty equipment.
Driving Under the Influence
While most truck drivers are required to maintain sobriety, drug or alcohol use still remains a contributing factor in some accidents. Whether the driver was under the influence of illegal drugs, prescription medication, or alcohol, driving while impaired can have disastrous consequences on the road.
If substance use is suspected to have played a role in the 18-wheeler truck accident, your attorney will ensure that the appropriate tests are administered and that the results are included in your case. Evidence of impairment can significantly strengthen your claim and increase the likelihood of receiving a favorable outcome.
Distracted Driving
With the advent of technology, distracted driving has become a growing concern in the trucking industry. Whether it’s using a cell phone, adjusting the radio, or eating while driving, distractions can severely impair a driver’s ability to react quickly to changing road conditions.
A lawyer for 18-wheeler truck accident claims will obtain cell phone records, GPS data, and any available surveillance footage to determine if the driver was distracted at the time of the accident. If this is the case, it can help build a strong argument for the driver’s negligence and improve the chances of securing maximum compensation.
Weather Conditions and Road Hazards
Though not always preventable, weather conditions and road hazards also play a significant role in 18-wheeler accidents. Heavy rain, fog, snow, and icy roads can make driving conditions hazardous. However, truck drivers are trained to adjust their driving techniques to accommodate these dangers.
If the weather or road conditions contributed to the accident, a lawyer for 18-wheeler truck accident claims will review weather reports and gather evidence to determine if the driver or trucking company failed to adjust appropriately. If their negligence in handling adverse conditions caused the accident, they may be held liable for damages.
By thoroughly investigating these potential causes, a skilled lawyer for 18-wheeler truck accident cases can identify which party is responsible for the accident, whether it’s the driver, the trucking company, or another entity. Understanding these causes and holding the appropriate parties accountable is key to winning your case and securing the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler truck accident, do not hesitate to contact Tennessee Accident Law for a consultation. Our team will thoroughly investigate your case and ensure that all potential causes are addressed in the pursuit of justice.
Legal Steps in Handling Your 18-Wheeler Accident Case
Navigating the legal process after an 18-wheeler truck accident can be overwhelming, especially while recovering from serious injuries. A qualified attorney will guide you through each step of the process to ensure your rights are protected.
Filing the Claim and Negotiating with Insurance Companies
The first step in the legal process is filing a claim with the responsible party’s insurance company. However, insurance companies often attempt to settle claims quickly and for less than they are worth. This is where a lawyer for 18-wheeler truck accident cases becomes invaluable. An experienced attorney will handle all communications with the insurance company, ensuring that you are not taken advantage of during this vulnerable time.
They will also negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair settlement. If the insurance company offers an insufficient settlement, your attorney will be prepared to take the case to trial if necessary.
Representing You in Court if Necessary
If negotiations with the insurance company break down or if the offer is too low, your attorney will represent you in court. A lawyer for 18-wheeler truck accident claims will prepare a strong case to present before a judge and jury. They will present all evidence, including expert testimony, accident reports, and witness statements, to prove that the trucking company or driver was at fault for the accident.
Having a lawyer by your side during trial increases your chances of receiving the full compensation you are entitled to. A skilled attorney knows how to present the case effectively and will fight aggressively to ensure that your rights are upheld in the courtroom.
How a Lawyer Can Help You Win Your 18-Wheeler Accident Case
If you have been involved in an 18-wheeler truck accident, seeking legal representation is crucial to securing the compensation you deserve. At Tennessee Accident Law, our experienced attorneys specialize in handling 18-wheeler truck accident claims. We understand the complexities of these cases and will fight tirelessly on your behalf to ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries.
Our team will investigate the cause of the accident, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. We are committed to helping you navigate this difficult time and get the justice you deserve. If you have been injured in an 18-wheeler accident, don’t wait—contact us today.
To get started, complete our free case evaluation form or call us now at 615-212-9866.
Sources:
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): This governmental resource provides comprehensive information on trucking regulations and safety statistics. It is an essential reference for understanding the legal requirements for truck drivers and the trucking industry. FMCSA
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): The NHTSA publishes data on traffic accidents and vehicle safety. Their reports on truck accidents provide valuable insight into the frequency and severity of 18-wheeler accidents. NHTSA
- American Trucking Associations (ATA): The ATA is a national organization representing the trucking industry. Their reports and studies provide insight into the operations of trucking companies and industry best practices. ATA
