Each year in America, more than half a million big truck accidents occur on roadways across the nation. If you are riding in a passenger vehicle, or even an SUV, you are much more vulnerable than the driver of an 80,000 pound tractor trailer. If you are fortunate enough to survive the 18-wheeler accident, you may have sustained severe injuries. An experienced truck accident attorney can help you recover damages to pay for your medical bills, lost wages and compensate you for emotional damage such as pain and suffering.
The Devastating Aftermath
The enormous size of an 18-wheeler is the main reason that these collisions are so devastating. As the trucking industry grows increasingly competitive, there is additional pressure for truck drivers to make tight deadlines. The pressure of unrealistic schedules often causes drivers to speed and drive aggressively, sometimes under extreme fatigue. All of these factors can be deadly behind the wheel of an 80,000 pound vehicle.
The size of a tractor trailer requires drivers to allow more time to stop and more caution when making turns. Therefore, careless or negligent truck drivers can easily lose control of their massive vehicle. Also, many large trucks transport hazardous chemicals or flammable materials can cause significant injuries to other drivers and passengers if a collision occurs.
The most common causes of 18-wheeler accidents include:
- Driver fatigue
- Driver negligence or excessive speeds
- Brake failure, tire failure and other defective parts
- Failure to see and accommodate blind spots
- Road debris
- Use of illegal or legal stimulants to stay awake
- Unsecured freight or overloaded cargo
- Inclement weather
Dealing With the Trucking Company
If you are involved in an eighteen-wheeler accident, the trucking company will send a representative to the scene of the accident to survey the damage and estimate the company’s liability. Keep in mind that the representative’s job is to limit the liability of the company. Be sure that you do not make a statement, as you may say something that can jeopardize the potential for a successful personal injury claim. You do not have any duty to speak to the truck company, so be sure to consult a truck accident attorney before making any type of statement.
Hiring a Truck Accident Lawyer
If you become hurt in an 18-wheeler accident, it is a good idea to hire a truck accident attorney. These types of personal injury claims are often complex, and you can expect the truck company to work against you every step of the way. A semi-truck accident lawyer can help you protect your rights and collect the compensation to cover your injuries so that you can heal and move on with your life.
If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed in a large truck accident, please call our 18-wheeler accident attorneys at 1-877-LOSS RECOVER (567-7732). The initial consultation is free, and there is no fee unless we get money for you. Please call today to make sure that you do not waive your right to possible compensation by waiting too long.