When an 18-wheeler, also known as a big rig or tractor-trailer, is involved in an accident, the results of truck crash can be catastrophic. Given their enormous weight and size, these vehicles are capable of causing extensive damage to other vehicles, trucks, and even pedestrians sharing the road. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2019, 4,119 people died in large truck crashes, and 67% of those fatalities were occupants of passenger vehicles.
The reasons for 18-wheeler accidents can vary. Some common causes include driver fatigue, distracted driving, improper truck maintenance, speeding, and improper cargo loading. An accident can result in serious injuries to truck drivers, such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, Traumatic Brain Injuries, and even death. The costs of medical treatment, lost wages, and ongoing care can quickly add up, placing a significant financial and emotional burden on accident victims and their families.
Importance of having a good attorney to protect your rights and interests
18-wheeler accidents can be devastating, causing serious injuries, property damage truck accidents, and even fatalities. If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident, having a skilled attorney on your side is crucial to protect your rights and interests.
One of the key reasons to have a good attorney in an 18-wheeler or truck accident your case is to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Collisions involving trucks can cause substantial medical expenses, decreased income, and other financial setbacks. A skilled attorney can work with you to understand the full extent of your damages and fight for a fair settlement covering all your losses.
Another important reason to have a good attorney is to have experienced truck accident lawyer
protect your legal rights. Trucking companies and their insurance providers tend to downplay their responsibility and evade compensating victims of accidents. An experienced attorney can protect your rights and interests by investigating the accident, collecting evidence, and building a strong case.
Finally, a good attorney can provide peace of mind and support during a difficult time. Trucking accidents can be traumatic and overwhelming, and having a skilled attorney by your side can help ease the burden. Your attorney can handle the legal aspects of truck accident litigation for your case, leaving you to focus on your recovery and getting your life back on track.
How an 18-wheeler accident attorney can help you
If you’ve been in an accident involving an 18-wheeler or another large commercial vehicle, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. This is where an experienced 18-wheeler accident attorney can be an invaluable resource. Here are just a few of the ways that a skilled, semi truck accident attorney can help you:
Investigating the accident and collecting evidence:
A good attorney will immediately start investigating the accident to determine what happened and who was at fault. This may involve gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, photographs, and video footage. The attorney may also consult with accident reconstruction experts to help build a strong case.
Identifying all potentially liable parties:
In many cases, an accident involving an 18-wheeler is not the driver’s fault alone. Multiple parties may share responsibility, such as the trucking company, the manufacturer of the truck or its components, or even other drivers who contributed to the accident. An experienced attorney will know how to identify and hold all potentially liable parties accountable.
Dealing with insurance companies on your behalf is notoriously difficult to deal with. They may pressure you into accepting a settlement that is less than you deserve. An attorney specializing in 18-wheeler accidents will know how to negotiate with insurers to ensure that truck accident victims receive fair compensation for your injuries and other damages.
Negotiating a settlement that covers all of your damages:
In addition to medical expenses and lost wages, you may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other damages. An experienced attorney will work to ensure that you are fully compensated for all of your losses.
Representing you in court if necessary
If a Fair Settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to trial. This requires a deep understanding of the legal system and the ability to argue persuasively before a judge and jury. With an experienced attorney, you can be confident that your rights and interests will be protected.
What to look for in an 18-wheeler accident attorney
When searching for an attorney to represent you in an 18-wheeler accident case, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key qualities to look for in an experienced truck accident attorney:
Experience with trucking accident cases:
You want an attorney who has successfully handled similar truck accident cases before. Trucking accidents can be more complex than car accidents due to the number of parties involved, so it’s important for truck driver to have an attorney familiar with this area of law.
Knowledge of federal and state trucking regulations:
Many regulations govern the industry, and your attorney and insurance company should be well-versed in these rules. Knowing the relevant regulations can help your attorney build a strong case and identify any violations that may have contributed to the accident.
Willingness to take your case to trial if necessary
While most cases settle out of court, it’s important to have an attorney willing and able to take your case to trial if needed. This can show the other side that you are serious about pursuing your claim and can help you achieve a better settlement.
Availability and communication skills:
You want a responsive and communicative attorney who will keep you informed throughout the process. Ask about their availability and how they prefer to communicate with clients.
Track record of success in trucking accident cases:
Finally, you want an attorney with a proven track record of success in 18-wheeler accident cases. Look for an attorney who has won significant verdicts or settlements for their clients and has positive reviews from past clients.
Conclusion
Having a skilled and experienced attorney by your side is crucial to protect your rights and interests. The aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming and confusing, but the right attorney can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
At Car Wreck Houston, we have a team of experienced attorneys handling trucking accident cases. We understand the complexities of these cases and have a track record of success in achieving favorable outcomes for our clients. We have the knowledge and resources to thoroughly investigate your accident, identify all liable parties, and negotiate a settlement covering all your damages.
Our attorneys are dedicated to providing personalized attention to each of our clients and keeping them informed throughout the entire legal process. We are always available to answer your questions and address any concerns.