When you are involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler truck, the injuries can be devastating. Not only are the trucks much larger than traditional passenger vehicles, but the drivers working for commercial trucking companies often have less experience behind the wheel.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident with an 18-wheeler, it is important to speak with a qualified attorney who can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
At Farahi Law Firm, we have years of experience representing accident victims and their families. We understand what you are going through, and we will fight tirelessly to get you the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
Contact our experienced attorneys today for a free consultation. We would be happy to discuss your case with you.
What Causes Truck Accidents in California?
Accidents involving massive commercial trucks can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Driver fatigue or impairment: Commercial drivers are often required to go for long hours, which can lead to fatigue and impaired judgment. Driver drowsiness can increase the risk of truck accident injury.
- Poorly maintained vehicles: 18-wheelers require regular maintenance and repairs to remain in safe working order. Brake failure and other types of equipment failures can lead to a motor vehicle crash and, worse, fatal collisions.
- Careless or distracted driving: Truck drivers are often subject to tight deadlines and intense delivery schedules, which can lead to them taking unnecessary risks on the road and other preventable driver errors.
- Improperly loaded cargo or overloading: 18-wheelers are designed to haul specific amounts of weight, and any discrepancy can result in an accident.
- Defective truck parts: Vehicle defects can lead to truck crashes, and the manufacturer may be held liable.
- Unqualified drivers: 18-wheelers are very difficult to operate, and trucking companies need to ensure that their drivers are properly licensed and trained. Inexperienced drivers can increase the risk of a commercial truck accident.
- Inclement weather: Poor weather can reduce visibility and make these massive vehicles more difficult to control.
- Poor road conditions: Negligent road maintenance, construction, or erroneous design of public roads can lead to 18-wheeler accidents. In this case, liability may lie with a government agency that holds responsibility for managing the roadway.
These and other factors can lead to serious 18-wheeler truck accidents that result in catastrophic injuries or even death. Commercial trucking companies are required to carry liability insurance for these types of accidents. If you or a loved one is injured in an 18-wheeler accident, you may be entitled to insurance claims for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Common Injuries From 18-Wheeler Truck Wrecks
In 18-wheeler trucking accidents, the driver and passengers of traditional passenger vehicles typically suffer the most severe injuries. These may include:
- Head trauma
- Spinal cord injuries
- Organ damage
- Broken bones
- Internal bleeding
- Burns
- Neck and back injuries
These types of accidents can be overwhelming and life-altering. If you are the victim of an 18-wheeler truck wreck, it is important to contact a qualified 18-wheeler crash attorney who can help you understand your legal rights and options.
What Victims of Truck Accidents Can Recover From Insurance
If you are involved in a commercial vehicle accident involving a truck, there are a few things you may be able to recover from insurance. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills, including hospitalization and rehabilitation
- Lost wages due to missed work
- Loss of future income
- Loss of consortium
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Punitive damages
- Wrongful death claim (in cases of fatal truck accidents)
- Funeral expenses
Pain and suffering can be difficult to prove, but 18-wheeler wreck attorneys are familiar with the process and can help you get the maximum compensation for your losses. Pain and suffering can include emotional trauma, physical pain, mental anguish, depression, and other losses.
Determining Compensation Value From a Truck Wreck
Determining the value of a truck wreck case can be complicated, and it is important to speak with truck injury lawyers who understand the complexities of commercial trucking accidents. An attorney will review all relevant evidence and build your case to obtain a fair settlement.
Typically, 18-wheeler wreck cases involve extensive financial damages and emotional tolls. If the accident leads to death, family members may also be entitled to wrongful death damages.
The average 18-wheeler truck accident case can also involve multiple defendants and insurance companies, so it is important to speak with an 18-wheeler wreck attorney who understands the complexities of these cases. Insurance carriers may attempt to minimize their liability and find ways to reduce your compensation, but a skilled truck accident attorney can help ensure that you receive the full amount of compensation you are entitled to.
The statute of limitations for filing 18-wheeler truck accident lawsuits against commercial firms in California is two years. If the truck is government-owned, the time frame is even shorter (usually six months).
What A Personal Injury Attorney Can Do
Truck accident victims can benefit greatly from speaking with a California truck accident lawyer who understands the ins and outs of truck accidents. A truck accident law firm can provide invaluable advice, resources, and assistance to victims of truck wrecks, including:
- Assisting with the insurance claims process and filing a lawsuit, if needed
- Negotiating with insurance companies and liable parties for an appropriate settlement amount
- Fighting for your legal rights
- Investigating and gathering evidence, such as medical records, police reports, and witness statements, to prove fault in the 18-wheeler truck wreck
- Consulting with medical experts, accident reconstructionists, and other professionals
- Keeping you informed of all developments in your truck accident claim
Need An 18 Wheeler Wreck Attorney? Call Farahi Law Firm Today
If you or a loved one is injured in an 18-wheeler truck accident, it is crucial to contact an experienced 18-wheeler wreck attorney. At Farahi Law Firm, our personal injury lawyers are dedicated to helping accident victims and their families navigate the legal process. We understand what you are going through. You can count on our experienced truck accident lawyers to fight tirelessly to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.Call us today to discuss your personal injury claim. We are here for you.
