18 Wheeler Accidents
Getting into 18 wheeler accidents can be very dangerous. The driver may have fatigue, there may be a defective equipment, and there may be other problems within the truck itself. All of these things can lead to an accident, which can cause you serious injuries. If you’re ever involved in an accident, it’s best to contact an attorney as soon as possible. Having a lawyer on your side can help you get the compensation you need to cover your losses.
Truck driver fatigue
Having a truck driver that is fatigued behind the wheel is a risky situation. It can increase the chances of an accident and cause injuries to other people.The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is responsible for ensuring the safety of commercial trucks. The organization has developed Hour of Service rules to reduce the number of big truck accidents. The rules cover a number of aspects of the operations of a trucking company, including the hours that drivers can work.
Truck drivers have to drive for long periods of time without rest breaks. In order to ensure the safety of their passengers and the public, trucking companies need to implement programs that promote truck driver safety.
Some truckers may feel pressure from their employers to deliver a load at a faster rate. They may be financially driven to do so, despite the physical and mental toll it takes on their body.According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, fatigue is the cause of 13 percent of fatal crashes and 14 percent of injury crashes. This can be especially true of 18-wheeler accidents.
Studies have shown that drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Drowsy driving leads to poor decision-making and lack of alertness. It also affects reaction times and can lead to a loss of control of the truck.
The truck driver’s job is to be alert and focused at all times. When fatigued, he can become drowsy or even fall asleep behind the wheel. This is a very serious threat to the safety of other people and the public.If you or a loved one is involved in a crash with a tired truck driver, contact an attorney. You may be able to sue the company for negligence.
Defective equipment
Whether you are driving an 18 wheeler or a passenger vehicle, defective equipment can cause you to be seriously injured. An experienced product liability attorney can help you recover compensation for your injuries.If you are involved in a truck accident, you should seek medical attention and collect evidence of the crash. You should also keep a record of your medical expenses. You should get a copy of the police report, too.If you are a victim of a truck accident caused by faulty equipment, you may be able to hold multiple parties accountable for your injuries. You may be able to make a claim against the driver, the motor carrier, the trucking company, the mechanics, or the manufacturer of the defective part.
There have been several large-scale recalls for vehicles and truck parts. These have included more than 390 vehicles and 46 million tires. There have also been 42 million child safety seats recalled.If you are a victim of an 18 wheeler jackknife accident, faulty brakes can be one of the most common causes of these accidents. Faulty brakes can increase your stopping distance and reduce your ability to control the vehicle. Having a faulty brake can be especially dangerous in large, heavy 18 wheeler trucks.
If you have been involved in a crash caused by a faulty tractor trailer steering system, you may be able to sue several entities. You should check the steering system for any cracks or non-factory welds. You should also check the lubrication level of the system.If you are a victim of defective equipment in an 18 wheeler accident, you may be able to file a claim against the trucking company, the manufacturer, or the trucker.
Brake failure
Whether a passenger vehicle or a truck, brake failure can cause devastating injuries or even death. This is particularly true for 18 wheeler accidents. The size of these large commercial vehicles make them more difficult to control than a passenger car.A good way to prevent brake failure is to have your vehicle inspected regularly. In addition, it may help to train your truck driver on how to properly use the brakes. The proper use of brakes can save wear and tear on your vehicle and reduce your fuel consumption.Another way to avoid a brake failure is to have your trucking company maintain the brakes on your truck. The company is required by law to inspect the braking systems on your commercial vehicle.
There are many factors that can contribute to a semi-truck brake failure. A few of these include poor maintenance, defective parts, and improper operation.Brake failure in large commercial trucks poses a real danger to both motorists and pedestrians. In addition to injuries, the faulty braking system can cause property damage or fatalities.
If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident due to a faulty brake, you might have a case against the trucking company that was responsible. A personal injury attorney can help you hold the negligent parties accountable.The best way to prevent a brake failure is to have your trucking business inspect the braking system regularly. A routine inspection is the quickest way to avoid a malfunction.The trucking company should also provide training for their drivers. If a driver fails to properly use the brakes, the driver could end up destroying the braking system and the truck.
Other problems within the vehicle
Whether you are a newbie or a seasoned pro, it is recommended that you perform a comprehensive inspection of your truck or hauler before hitting the road. Getting your rig to pass a safety inspection is no small feat. It is also worthwhile to keep an eye out for impropriately parked vehicles, loose or missing lug nuts and a host of other vehicular hazards. One might even wish to take the time to read a vehicle manual prior to embarking upon a journey in the wild.
The above mentioned 18 wheeler o’ the road has its own list of woes. The best way to avoid the hazards of the road is to ensure that your rig is up to date with the latest safety equipment and is properly maintained.
Compensation for damages
Whether you are in an 18 wheeler accident, or any other motor vehicle accident, you may be able to receive compensation for your injuries. These damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and loss of earning capacity.The amount of compensation you are entitled to depends on the severity of the accident. A simple accident can result in hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages. A more serious accident can result in damages in the millions.
You should not accept a settlement offer unless you have been fully informed of the damage to you and your family. A lawyer can help you understand the offer and advise you on how it is fair. It is important to consult a professional truck accident attorney to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.In order to receive compensation, you need to show that you were not at fault in the accident. In Texas, you must file your claim within two years of the accident. If you do not, you lose your right to file a lawsuit.
Depending on the extent of the injury, you may need to seek medical treatment for a long period of time. You also may be unable to engage in some of your favorite activities. These losses can affect your quality of life. Getting compensated for your losses can help you move forward with your life.You may also be able to claim punitive damages for your injuries. These damages are designed to punish the negligent party and discourage him or her from doing it again. It is very difficult to determine how much you are owed in punitive damages. If you have been involved in 18 wheeler accidents call us now for a free consultation.