18 wheeler accident lawyer san antonio

18 wheeler accident lawyer san antonio - It is true that many drivers take for granted that most other motorists will follow the rules of the road. However, it is important for all drivers to be aware of the potential dangers that can arise while driving, especially when sharing the road with large vehicles such as 18-wheelers. These vehicles can pose a significant risk to other drivers due to their size and weight, and accidents involving 18-wheelers can often result in serious injuries or fatalities. It is important for all drivers to be cautious and vigilant while driving, and to always be aware of their surroundings in order to stay safe on the road.

How Common Are 18 Wheeler Accidents in the U.S.?

It is difficult to determine the exact frequency of 18-wheeler accidents in the United States, as data on these types of accidents is not consistently collected and reported. However, it is widely recognized that accidents involving large commercial trucks, including 18-wheelers, are a significant problem on American roads. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), large trucks were involved in 4,136 fatal crashes in the United States in 2019, representing 12% of all fatal crashes that year. Additionally, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) estimates that there were over 500,000 police-reported crashes involving large trucks in the United States in 2019, resulting in over 140,000 injuries and over 4,800 deaths. It is worth noting that these figures only include crashes that were reported to the police, and the actual number of 18-wheeler accidents that occur in the United States is likely higher.

Reasons Why Semi Trucks Are More Dangerous Than Passenger Vehicles

There are several reasons why semi trucks, also known as 18-wheelers or big rigs, can be more dangerous than passenger vehicles on the road. Some of the main reasons include:

1. Size and weight: Semi trucks are much larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, which can make them more difficult to maneuver and stop. This can increase the risk of accidents and make the consequences of a collision more severe.
2. Blind spots: Semi trucks have large blind spots on all four sides, which can make it difficult for the driver to see other vehicles. This can increase the risk of accidents, especially when the truck is changing lanes or making turns.
3. Long braking distances: Semi trucks require more time and distance to stop than passenger vehicles due to their size and weight. This can be a problem if the truck driver does not allow enough space between their vehicle and the one in front of them.
4. Fatigue: Truck drivers may be more prone to fatigue due to long hours on the road and strict delivery schedules. This can lead to drowsy or distracted driving, which can increase the risk of accidents.
5. Unsecured loads: If the cargo on a semi truck is not properly secured, it can shift or spill during transit, which can cause the truck to lose control or create a hazard for other drivers.

Overall, it is important for all drivers to be aware of the potential dangers posed by semi trucks and to exercise caution when sharing the road with these large vehicles.

Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents

There are many potential causes of semi-truck accidents, and the specific cause of a particular accident will depend on the circumstances of the case. Some common causes of semi-truck accidents include:

1. Driver error: Many semi-truck accidents are caused by driver error, such as distracted driving, reckless driving, or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
2. Fatigue: As mentioned earlier, truck drivers may be more prone to fatigue due to long hours on the road and strict delivery schedules. This can lead to drowsy or distracted driving, which can increase the risk of accidents.
3. Poorly maintained equipment: If a semi-truck is not properly maintained, it can lead to mechanical problems or equipment failure, which can increase the risk of accidents.
4. Inclement weather: Poor weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or ice, can make driving more difficult and increase the risk of accidents.
5. Unsecured loads: If the cargo on a semi-truck is not properly secured, it can shift or spill during transit, which can cause the truck to lose control or create a hazard for other drivers.
6. Traffic violations: Some semi-truck accidents are caused by traffic violations, such as speeding or failure to follow traffic laws.

It is worth noting that many semi-truck accidents are caused by multiple factors, and determining the cause of an accident can be complex and require a thorough investigation.

Common 18 Wheeler Accident Injuries

Accidents involving 18-wheelers can often result in serious injuries due to the size and weight of these vehicles. Some common injuries that may result from an 18-wheeler accident include:

1. Head injuries: Head injuries, such as concussion or traumatic brain injury, can occur as a result of the impact of a collision or from being struck by flying debris.
2. Neck and back injuries: Neck and back injuries, such as whiplash or spinal cord injuries, can result from the force of a collision or from being thrown around in the vehicle.
3. Fractures: Fractures, or broken bones, can occur as a result of being struck by a large vehicle or from being involved in a collision.
4. Internal injuries: Internal injuries, such as punctured organs or internal bleeding, can occur as a result of the force of a collision or from being struck by flying debris.
5. Soft tissue injuries: Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and bruises, can occur as a result of the force of a collision or from being thrown around in the vehicle.
6. Burn injuries: Burn injuries can occur if a vehicle catches fire after a collision.

It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after an 18-wheeler accident to properly diagnose and treat any injuries that may have been sustained.

How Are 18 Wheeler Accident Cases More Complicated Than Average Car Accident Cases?

18-wheeler accident cases can often be more complicated than average car accident cases for a variety of reasons. Some of the ways in which 18-wheeler accident cases may be more complicated include:

1. Multiple parties involved: 18-wheeler accident cases may involve multiple parties, including the driver of the 18-wheeler, the trucking company, the owner of the cargo, and any other drivers involved in the accident. This can make it more complex to determine liability and apportion fault.
2. Complex regulations: The trucking industry is regulated by federal and state laws, which can make it more complex to determine whether any regulations were violated in the accident.
3. Expert testimony: 18-wheeler accident cases may require the testimony of experts, such as accident reconstructionists or safety engineers, to help determine the cause of the accident and assess damages.
4. Extensive damages: Accidents involving 18-wheelers can often result in significant damages, including physical injuries, property damage, and lost wages. Calculating these damages can be complex and may require the assistance of experts.
5. Insurance issues: Insurance issues can be complex in 18-wheeler accident cases, as the trucking company and the driver may have different insurance policies that apply to the accident.

Overall, 18-wheeler accident cases can be more complex than average car accident cases due to the multiple parties involved, the regulatory landscape, and the potential for extensive damages. It is important to work with an experienced attorney who is familiar with the unique challenges of 18-wheeler accident cases.

Types of Damages for 18 Wheeler Accidents

Accidents involving 18-wheelers can result in a wide range of damages, including physical injuries, property damage, and economic losses. Some of the types of damages that may be recoverable in an 18-wheeler accident case include:

1. Medical expenses: This can include the cost of medical treatment, such as hospitalization, surgery, and rehabilitation, as well as the cost of any ongoing medical care that may be required as a result of the accident.
2. Lost wages: If an accident victim is unable to work due to their injuries, they may be able to recover damages for the wages they would have earned if they had not been injured.
3. Property damage: This can include damages to a vehicle or other property that was damaged in the accident.
4. Pain and suffering: This can include damages for the physical pain and suffering caused by the accident, as well as for the emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life that may result from the accident.
5. Punitive damages: In some cases, a court may award punitive damages if the conduct of the 18-wheeler driver or trucking company was particularly reckless or negligent.

It is important to note that the specific damages that may be recoverable in an 18-wheeler accident case will depend on the circumstances of the case and the laws of the state where the accident occurred. An experienced attorney can help assess the damages that may be available in a particular case.

Why Injured Parties Should Hire a San Antonio 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer

If you have been injured in an 18-wheeler accident, it is important to consider hiring a San Antonio 18-wheeler accident lawyer to represent your interests. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Experience: 18-wheeler accident cases can be complex, and it is important to work with an attorney who has experience handling these types of cases. A San Antonio 18-wheeler accident lawyer will have the knowledge and expertise to navigate the legal process and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.
2. Knowledge of local laws: The laws governing 18-wheeler accident cases can vary from state to state, and it is important to work with an attorney who is familiar with the laws in San Antonio and the surrounding areas.
3. Ability to negotiate with insurance companies: Insurance companies may try to minimize the amount of damages they pay out after an 18-wheeler accident. An experienced San Antonio 18-wheeler accident lawyer will have the skills and resources to negotiate with insurance companies and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
4. Ability to hire experts: 18-wheeler accident cases may require the testimony of experts, such as accident reconstructionists or safety engineers. A San Antonio 18-wheeler accident lawyer will have the resources to hire the necessary experts to strengthen your case.

Overall, hiring a San Antonio 18-wheeler accident lawyer can help ensure that you receive the best possible representation and the maximum possible compensation for your injuries and damages.