Truck Accident Attorneys Protect You!
Big truck accidents often result in significant personal injury cases. These cases differ from regular car accidents because semi-trucks require higher insurance coverage and adhere to different rules.
Joel and I are fully cognizant of the profound repercussions associated with semi-truck accidents and their potential to irrevocably alter lives. Such incidents frequently culminate in grave or life-changing injuries. We believe that, as lawyers specializing in truck accidents, it is incumbent upon us to aid as many victims of tractor-trailer truck accidents as possible.
After a big rig accident, the drivers are trained to immediately inform their dispatch. Soon after, their lawyers and investigators arrive at the scene to protect the trucking company’s financial interests.
It’s crucial that your attorney gets the opportunity to visit the 18-wheeler accident site as soon as possible. Once we are retained, we start working right away! Our personal injury law firm uses highly regarded accident reconstruction experts who use advanced methods to investigate and document the evidence at the accident scene.
According to tripnet.org, even though large trucks only make up 5% of registered vehicles on the road, they are involved in 13% of accident fatalities. From 2017 to 2021, the number of deaths in large truck crashes increased by 18%, from 4,906 to 5,788.
In 18-wheeler wrecks, most deaths occur in the passenger vehicle involved. Truck braking capability can be a factor in these crashes. Loaded tractor-trailers require 10–40% more distance to stop, and this increases on wet and slippery roads or if the truck has poorly maintained brakes. Truck driver fatigue is also a risk factor. Government regulations allow drivers of large trucks to drive up to 11 hours at a stretch, but many drivers violate these rules and work longer than they should (McCartt et al., 2008).
According to the Alabama Department of Transportation, in 2022 there were 10,452 truck crashes resulting in 162 fatalities and 2,417 injuries. Improper lane changes or failing to yield the right-of-way accounted for over 25% of recorded crashes. Thirty percent of the accidents took place on interstates, and 55 of those 3,117 crashes led to fatalities.
If you’re interested in big truck wreck statistics and where and how they occur, you can visit truckinfo.net, which lists Alabama as the 8th highest state for truck accidents per capita.
Who Is Liable In A Truck Crash?
Liability in a tractor-trailer truck accident can be complex and may involve multiple parties. The primary liable party is often the truck driver if negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence, is proven. However, the trucking company can also be held liable if it is found that they failed to properly maintain the vehicle, did not adequately train the driver, or violated regulations regarding driver hours and rest periods. Additionally, liability can extend to the manufacturer of the truck or its parts if a mechanical failure due to a defect caused the accident. In some cases, other drivers involved in the accident may share liability if their actions contributed to the crash. Determining liability requires a thorough investigation of the accident circumstances, including reviewing the truck’s maintenance records, driver logs, accident scene investigation, and any available video footage or witness testimonies.
Responsible parties may include:
- Truck Driver: Negligence such as speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence, or violating traffic laws.
- Trucking Company: Failure to maintain the vehicle, inadequate driver training, violations of regulations regarding driver hours and rest periods.
- Truck Manufacturer: Defective parts or mechanical failures that lead to the accident.
- Cargo Loaders: Improperly loaded or secured cargo causing instability or shifting during transit.
- Maintenance Providers: Faulty or neglected repairs and maintenance that result in mechanical failure.
- Other Drivers: Actions of other drivers that contribute to or cause the accident.
- Government Entities: Poorly maintained roads, inadequate signage, or traffic control issues.
- Third-Party Contractors: Any outsourced service providers responsible for aspects like truck maintenance, repairs, or cargo loading.
Causes of Tractor Trailer Accidents
Semi-truck accidents in Alabama are often caused by driver fatigue, distracted driving, speeding, and aggressive driving. Inadequate vehicle maintenance, such as brake failures and tire blowouts, also play a significant role. Adverse weather conditions and poorly maintained roads further heighten the risk of accidents. Improper cargo loading, leading to shifting loads and instability, is another common cause of accidents in the state.
Common Truck Wreck Causes
- Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road without adequate rest.
- Distracted Driving: Using mobile phones or other electronic devices while driving.
- Speeding: Exceeding speed limits to meet tight delivery schedules.
- Aggressive Driving: Tailgating, frequent lane changes, and other reckless behaviors.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Issues such as brake failures and tire blowouts.
- Adverse Weather Conditions: Heavy rain, fog, snow, or ice impacting driving conditions.
- Improper Cargo Loading: Shifting loads leading to vehicle instability.
- Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drug impairment affecting driver performance.
- Poorly Maintained Roads: Potholes, uneven surfaces, and lack of proper signage.
- Inexperienced Drivers: Lack of adequate training and experience in handling large vehicles.
Injuries Sustained In Semi-Truck Accident
In Florence, Alabama, semi-truck accidents often result in severe injuries due to the size and weight of these large vehicles. Common injuries include traumatic brain injuries (TBI), which can occur when victims hit their heads against hard surfaces or from the violent shaking during the crash. These injuries can lead to long-term cognitive impairments, memory loss, and personality changes. Spinal cord injuries are also prevalent, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis depending on the severity and location of the damage. Victims might face a lifetime of medical care and rehabilitation, significantly impacting their quality of life.
Common Truck Accident Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Cognitive impairments, memory loss, and personality changes.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Partial or complete paralysis.
- Multiple Fractures: Broken bones requiring surgeries and lengthy recovery.
- Crush Injuries: Severe damage to limbs or other body parts.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to organs, internal bleeding, and punctured lungs.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Severe lacerations, bruises, and whiplash.
- Burns: Resulting from fires or explosions during the accident.
- Amputations: Loss of limbs due to severe impact or crush injuries.
- Facial Injuries: Broken facial bones, dental damage, and eye injuries.
- Psychological Injuries: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
Additionally, semi-truck accidents frequently cause multiple fractures and crush injuries, particularly to the limbs. Broken bones can be complex and require surgeries, lengthy recovery periods, and physical therapy. Internal injuries, such as damage to organs, internal bleeding, and punctured lungs, are also common due to the force of impact. Soft tissue injuries, including severe lacerations, bruises, and whiplash, can cause chronic pain and mobility issues. The psychological impact of such traumatic events should not be overlooked, as victims often suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression, necessitating mental health support alongside physical recovery.
Types of Compensation for Losses in 18-Wheeler Wrecks
Alabama, victims of 18-wheeler wrecks may be entitled to substantial compensation for their losses. This compensation can cover a range of damages, including medical expenses for immediate and ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, and therapy. Victims can also seek compensation for lost wages if the injuries prevent them from working, as well as for loss of earning capacity if they are unable to return to their previous employment. Additionally, compensation may include pain and suffering, addressing both physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. In cases where a loved one is lost in an 18-wheeler wreck, family members may pursue wrongful death claims to cover funeral expenses and the loss of companionship. Given the complexity of these cases, involving multiple liable parties and significant damages, victims are often advised to seek legal assistance to navigate the claims process and ensure they receive the full compensation they are entitled to.
Common Compensation Awards
- Medical Expenses: Costs for immediate and ongoing treatment, including surgeries, hospital stays, and medications.
- Rehabilitation and Therapy: Expenses for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitative services.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to the inability to work during recovery.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: Financial support for reduced ability to earn income in the future.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident.
- Property Damage: Costs for repairing or replacing damaged vehicles and other personal property.
- Disability and Disfigurement: Compensation for long-term or permanent disabilities and disfigurement.
- Loss of Consortium: Damages for the impact on marital relationships and loss of companionship.
- Funeral and Burial Expenses: Costs associated with the death of a loved one in the accident.
- Punitive Damages: Additional compensation in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct by the responsible party.
Do I Need A Truck Accident Lawyer?
Hiring a truck accident lawyer in Florence, Alabama, is crucial due to the complexity and severity of such cases. Truck accidents often involve significant damages and multiple liable parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturers, and others. A skilled truck accident lawyer can navigate these complexities, ensuring all responsible parties are held accountable. They have the expertise to handle the intricate legal and regulatory issues specific to trucking accidents, such as federal safety regulations and insurance requirements. Additionally, a lawyer can gather and preserve critical evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for the maximum compensation you deserve. Without legal representation, victims may struggle to secure fair compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. Therefore, having a knowledgeable lawyer on your side significantly increases the likelihood of a successful outcome.
