Choosing an 18-wheeler accident lawyer is important when you have been involved in an accident that is caused by the negligence of another party. An 18-wheeler accident lawyer can provide the assistance you need to get the compensation you deserve. However, choosing the right one can be a challenge. Here are some common traps to look out for.
Common causes of 18-wheeler accidents
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident, you may have a legal claim against the driver. It is important to understand the causes of these accidents to get a fair shake when pursuing a claim.
The most common cause of these accidents is speed. These large trucks are heavy and take a long time to stop. This makes them a dangerous vehicle to be in.
Another common cause of these crashes is poor road conditions. Heavy rains, snow, and wind can make it difficult for the truck to stop in a timely fashion. Similarly, if the driver is tired, the chances of an accident increase.
Defective parts in the truck can also be a cause of an accident. If the trucking company knowingly sent out faulty parts to a driver, they can be held liable.
Aside from driver negligence, many other factors contribute to 18-wheeler accidents. For example, if the cargo is not secured properly, it can lead to catastrophic damage.
Common injuries caused by 18-wheeler accidents
If you have been injured in an 18-wheeler accident, you may be suffering from a variety of injuries. Depending on the nature of the crash, these injuries can be serious and life-changing. In addition, they can result in high medical expenses.
While an 18-wheeler accident is different from a typical car accident, they are still very dangerous. As a result, you should get checked out immediately. The emergency room will be able to provide you with the care you need and keep your medical records for any lawsuits you file.
Survivors often experience ligament and muscle injuries. They may also have soft tissue damage to their back and neck.
Broken bones are another common injury in 18-wheeler accidents. These bones can be crushed, infected, or even amputated. Amputations can be very difficult to recover from and are emotionally and physically challenging.
Chemical leaks from big rig trucks can also result in serious burns and infections. Burns can be very painful and require a blood transfusion. Patients also need pain medication and antibiotics.
Common lawsuits involving 18-wheeler accidents
In 2017, over 5,000 people were killed in collisions involving 18-wheelers and other large trucks. While these crashes can be deadly, they also represent a great opportunity for a lawsuit. If you or a loved one was injured in a crash, contact an experienced attorney to learn more about the law and your options.
Depending on the severity of the accident and who was at fault, settlement amounts for 18-wheeler accidents can vary. Insurance companies have to be informed of the accident, and they will consider the type of damages involved. Besides the actual damages, the insurance company will also look at the driver’s history, whether he or she was driving negligently and whether he or she was under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Some state laws can affect the course of a case, such as the Louisiana statute of limitations. Typically, a victim’s claims must be filed within one year of the date of the accident.
Common traps for 18-wheeler accident lawyers
If you’re in an 18-wheeler accident, it’s important to know what common traps to avoid. If you don’t take the proper precautions, you may suffer serious injuries. These injuries can take months or even years to recover from. To ensure that you’re not caught in one of these traps, you should consult a trucking injury attorney to represent you in court. You should also be careful to choose a lawyer who is experienced in handling complex cases.
Most 18-wheeler trucks are equipped with event recorders. The data from these records can be analyzed to determine whether a driver was driving safely. When a driver is overloaded, he or she may not be able to balance the trailer properly and can overturn it with a sharp turn.
If your 18-wheeler has a defective part, you may be able to hold the manufacturer liable for the damages. An expert in car accidents can also help you prove your case to a jury. This will include economists, accident reconstruction experts, and forensic toxicologists.