Why You Should Hire a Truck Attorney If You Have Been Involved in an Accident With an 18 Wheeler
In the event you or someone you know has been involved in an accident with a large truck, such as an 18 wheeler, you should be aware that you may be entitled to compensation. If this happens, you should contact an attorney who specializes in such cases.
Accidents involving large trucks and 18 wheelers
If you have been involved in an accident involving a large truck or 18 wheeler, you have likely suffered serious injuries. This can be devastating for you and your loved ones. It can cause you to lose a great deal of money, and it may result in permanent disability. A skilled attorney can help you seek compensation for your damages.
There are a number of reasons why a large truck or 18 wheeler can be involved in a crash. These include driver errors, poor road conditions, and unexpected weather. In addition, trucks are more difficult to stop than typical cars. They can take up to 20-40 percent more time to come to a complete stop.
Most people who are involved in accidents involving big rigs are killed, although the number of accidents is decreasing. For instance, in 2009 there were fewer fatal crashes involving large commercial vehicles.
Regulations governing drivers
If you are a truck driver, you are subject to regulations governing your driving hours and your safety. These regulations are designed to keep you safe and to prevent accidents. They also help to ensure that the transportation industry runs smoothly.
There are different federal and state regulations that govern how many hours a driver can drive. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSA) apply to drivers who operate a commercial vehicle, including 18 wheeler trucks.
During an eight-day period, a driver can drive up to 70 hours. But, if they break the law, they can be penalized. It is possible for a trucker to be fined over $16,000. This is a serious offense.
Drivers who are on duty for more than 14 consecutive hours are required to rest for 30 minutes. However, they may extend this time limit by two hours.
Maintenance requirements for 18 wheelers
In order to operate a big rig safely, it’s important to meet certain maintenance requirements. This includes proper lighting and other mechanical aspects. Sadly, some companies fail to do their share of the required maintenance, and may be held liable for damages when a trucking accident occurs.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has developed guidelines to ensure that the commercial transportation industry meets safety standards. These regulations can be found in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
One of the most important maintenance requirements for 18 wheeler trucks is proper lighting. Having a well-lit truck can reduce the risk of a crash, and can make it much easier to see other motorists and pedestrians. If a big rig’s lights are malfunctioning, it can lead to a deadly high-speed crash.
Non-economic damages
If you have been involved in a trucking accident, you may be entitled to non-economic damages. These are not monetary, but rather represent the emotional and physical tolls that the accident has caused. A knowledgeable attorney can help you determine whether you are eligible for any of these damages.
Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, psychological trauma, and loss of companionship. They are generally awarded in cases where the accident was the result of the at-fault party’s negligence.
Getting compensation for these damages can be difficult. You may need a skilled trucking accident lawyer to help you calculate the full extent of your losses. Your attorney can also gather evidence to support your claim.
The first step in obtaining compensation is to determine who is at fault for your injuries. This can be a difficult task, especially when the at-fault party is a big trucking company.
Negotiating with insurance companies
There are many things to look for when negotiating with insurance companies after a semi-truck accident. While there are no guarantees, working with an experienced lawyer can increase your chances of success. Here are the most important points to consider.
The most important first step is to call 911 and get medical attention. If the crash was serious, you may want to remain seated until help arrives. A good lawyer will be able to tell you if you are likely to have long-term medical issues, and can explain what you should expect in terms of costs.
Another important step is to make a demand package. This includes documentation of your lost wages, medical bills, and other expenses. It is also a good idea to send a letter to the insurer outlining your demands.