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18 Wheeler Collisions
Houston witnesses thousands of 18-wheelers and commercial vehicles navigating its roads daily. With weights exceeding 70,000 pounds, these trucks pose a significant threat, capable of causing severe damage in collisions. If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler collision you may be entitled to financial compensation. Reach out to Calderon Legal Group today to explore your options and pursue justice through a personal injury claim.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Collisions in Texas Navigating the complexities of a personal injury claim can be challenging, but our experienced 18-wheeler collision attorneys in Houston are well-versed in guiding clients through the legal process. Recognizing that each situation is unique, we understand that these accidents can occur due to various reasons.
Some common causes of 18-wheeler collisions include:
- Unsafe Driving (Commercial Vehicle): Despite extensive training requirements, truck drivers may make mistakes such as pulling in front of a passenger car, failing to use blinkers, or engaging in dangerous driving behaviors, all of which can lead to accidents.
- Driver Fatigue & Impairment: Fatigued or impaired truck drivers pose significant dangers on the road. Reduced reaction times and impaired motor functions increase the risk of accidents, emphasizing the importance of regulations to ensure proper breaks and regular testing for alcohol or drug use.
- Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo: Overloaded or improperly loaded trucks can be challenging to maneuver, and unsecured cargo may spill onto roadways, creating hazards. Trucking companies have a responsibility to ensure proper loading to minimize the risk of accidents.
- Defective Parts & Equipment: Defective auto parts and equipment are common culprits in truck accidents. Even minor defects can lead to devastating consequences, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance.
- Improperly Trained Drivers: Inadequately trained drivers are more prone to errors, and with 80,000-pound vehicles, small mistakes can have significant consequences. Trucking companies are obligated to provide proper driving and safety training to their employees.
- Adverse Weather Conditions: Poor weather conditions, including rain, snow, and strong winds, often contribute to truck accidents. Proper training is essential for drivers to handle adverse weather conditions or follow protocols for pulling off the road when necessary.
In addition to various causes, there are different types of 18-wheeler accidents, including jackknife accidents, rollover accidents, tire blowout accidents, and underride accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident, let a Houston 18-wheeler collision lawyer from Calderon Legal Group review your case.
Recovering Compensation for 18-Wheeler Collision Expenses & Losses
Even at relatively low speeds, 18-wheeler collisions can result in serious damage and injuries. Catastrophic injuries, such as those to the spine or brain, may have lasting effects, impacting the victim’s ability to work and leading to financial burdens.
A successful claim can provide compensation for:
- Medical treatment expenses
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Physical and emotional suffering
Determining the cause is crucial to proving liability and securing full compensation. If you’ve been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler collision, it’s important to contact an experienced attorney promptly and gather evidence of the accident. Here’s a guide on what to collect after an 18-wheeler collision.
FAQ REGARDING 18-WHEELER COLLISION CLAIMS
- What is an 18-wheeler?
The term “18-wheeler” refers to a type of commercial truck with 18 wheels. It is a large freight-carrying truck commonly used for transporting goods. - How are 18-wheeler collisions different from typical car crashes?
18-wheeler collisions pose a higher likelihood of severe injury and death due to the size and weight of the trucks. Their weight, often up to 80,000 pounds, makes maneuvering and stopping challenging, leading to more catastrophic outcomes. - Can I sue the trucking company for my injury?
Each case is unique, but victims often seek to hold trucking companies accountable for damages. If the driver was an official employee, the company may be held responsible for negligent hiring, poor vehicle maintenance, or other violations contributing to the accident and injuries. - I am partially responsible for the accident. Am I still eligible for compensation?
Yes, you can pursue compensation even if partially at fault. Generally, you must demonstrate that the other party is more than 50% responsible for your injury to file a successful claim. - How much is my 18-wheeler collision case worth?
The value of your case depends on various factors, including medical expenses, missed wages, and pain and suffering. While it’s challenging to predict the exact amount, a Houston 18-wheeler collision lawyer can help you understand your possibilities through a free case evaluation.
Factors to Consider:
- Medical Expenses: Detailed records of hospitalization, ongoing care, ambulance fees, physical therapy, and doctor visits.
- Missed Wages: Compensation for temporary loss of earning capacity due to injuries preventing work.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain connected to the accident, both past and future.
While the exact recovery amount can’t be predicted, our attorneys can help you assess your case’s value. Schedule a free case evaluation with a Houston 18-wheeler collision lawyer from our firm to discuss your legal rights and options.
Establishing responsibility for the accident is a crucial element of your personal injury claim. Whether the truck driver acted recklessly or the trucking company was negligent, holding the responsible party accountable is essential. Calderon Legal Group possesses the knowledge and experience to assist clients in building a strong case. If you’ve suffered serious injuries in an 18-wheeler collision, you don’t have to face the future alone. Our legal team can help alleviate your financial burdens, allowing you to focus on healing.
Our attorneys adopt a personalized, hands-on approach to each case, preparing for both settlement negotiations and trial scenarios.
Drawing from William Calderon’s previous experience as an attorney for large businesses, our legal team understands how trucking companies may approach injury claims. This dual perspective allows us to build a compelling case and anticipate the opponent’s strategies.
