18-wheelers are the largest trucks on the road. They usually have two parts; the front is the tractor unit, the back is the semi trailer with the cargo space. The cargo capacity of these big rigs can be over 40,000 pounds and gross weights up to 80,000 pounds. The trucks need all those 18 wheels and tires to spread the bulk over the largest area possible. Accidents involving these large 18-wheeler trucks cause serious, life-threatening injuries due to their size and weight.
Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents
Often, truckers are pressed by deadlines and long hauls. Fatigue is prevalent, leading to drivers falling asleep at the wheel or lacking sufficient attention to be able to react in that split second to avoid an accident.
Drivers tailgate. They drive recklessly, not following the speed limit or rules of the road. They may not be properly trained or licensed.
Equipment fails or it might not have been properly maintained. Bad weather causes challenging driving conditions and hampers visibility.
Other causes:
- Distracted driving
- Maintenance errors
- Shipment loading errors
- Extreme weather
- Driving under the influence
- Truck driver negligence
- Negligence from the trucking company
Whatever the reason, a crash between an 18-wheeler and a passenger vehicle often results in the smaller car being crushed by the sheer force of the truck’s weight and speed.
Becoming familiar with what causes 18 wheeler trucking accidents can help both drivers and companies prevent the occurrence of a catastrophic incident.
Injuries Caused in 18-Wheeler Accidents
Big rig, 18-wheelers are typically huge trucks that carry tons of cargo on the roads through our cities and through rural areas. Because of their size and weight, it takes these vehicles much longer to stop and when they collide with another vehicle, they carry a lot more force.
Generally, an 18-wheeler accident at highway speeds results in a combination of injuries and/or fatalities for the occupants of the smaller vehicle.
- Fractures and broken bones
- Loss of limbs
- Internal injuries
- Back injuries and herniated discs
- Spinal cord injuries
- Head wounds, concussions and traumatic brain injuries
- Paralysis
Because of the severity of these injuries and potential long-term treatment needed, medical bills can mount quickly.
HAVE YOU BEEN SERIOUSLY HURT IN A TRUCKING ACCIDENT? CALL NOW.
Have you been seriously injured in an accident with an 18-wheeler or other large commercial truck? Call Nash & Franciskato at (877) 284-6600 We have a successful track record helping accident victims collect the compensation they deserve.
In the Kansas City area and across Missouri, the Nash & Franciskato Law Firm will fight for your rights. Contact our lawyers today for a free, no-obligation evaluation of your case.
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Complexity of 18-Wheeler Truck Accidents
There are many reasons why 18-wheeler truck accidents are more complex. Having an experienced attorney, one who knows the state and federal regulations, can take the burden off your shoulders.
Determining fault in an 18-wheeler accident can be challenging. You might think it is solely the truck driver’s responsibility but there actually may be multiple responsible parties depending on the circumstances of your accident.
For instance, the cause might be due to operator error, such as speeding or failure to yield. In this case, the driver is probably at fault.
Mechanical problems, poor maintenance and overloaded trucks are more complicated and responsibility could be shared by the truck driver, the owner of the truck, the manufacturer of the vehicle or even the shipper or loader of the truck’s cargo.
When you have questions, our team is here to answer them for you.
Experienced Trucking Accident Attorneys Build Your Case
The most important stage in any accident is the initial research and investigation. The experienced truck accident attorneys at Nash & Franciskato handle this for you by gathering the evidence needed to show how your accident occurred and who is liable for your injuries. This includes analyzing:
- Evidence collected at the scene of the accident
- Data about the truck, such as log books, trucking company records, electronic on-board recordings
- Police reports, photographs and other information
Our goal is to help you and your family put your lives back together by obtaining the compensation you deserve to restore your health, pay medical bills, recover lost wages and take care of other serious consequences such as a wrongful death.
Receive a Free Evaluation from Experienced Truck Accident Attorneys
In the Kansas City area and across Missouri, when you have been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident, you need a trusted and experienced resource who will fight for your rights. Contact the truck accident attorneys at Nash & Franciskato at (877) 284-6600 and one of our truck accident attorneys will provide you with a free, no-obligation review.
Contact Us Today for Your Free Case Evaluation
Editor’s Note: This page was reviewed for content and accuracy on April 25, 2024 and was republished.