If you have ever experienced a massive 18-wheeler truck swerve into the next lane on a highway, you know how loud the impact is—spinning metal and hearts racing, moments before disaster.
This is the sad reality of driving on the highway: you can get into an accident involving a large truck. And while most accidents are terrifying, there is nothing like the impact of an 18-wheeler because it weighs 20 to 30 times more than a passenger vehicle. This is why the injuries and hospital stays that follow the accident are also so much worse.
If you have been in an accident like this, you need to call an 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer to help you with the complexity of truck accident cases. These cases involve multiple people, shared responsibility, and trucking companies. You might have to navigate federal safety rules to determine if there were any violations, as well as talk to insurance adjusters.
This is all overwhelming for someone who has just been in a terrifying accident.
Why You Need an 18 Wheeler Truck Accident Lawyer After a Crash
Everything you know about regular car accidents goes out the window when an 18-wheeler truck is involved. These types of cases are far more complex because the vehicle isn’t just driven by one person. In some instances, liability falls on the whole business operation.
This means you could be fighting against a truck driver who was speeding because their employer pushed them to meet unrealistic delivery deadlines.
It is possible that the trucking company isn’t the only responsible party. Sometimes the cause of the accident can be traced back to the manufacturer or maintenance provider.
Here are some of the possible liabilities in an 18-wheeler truck accident:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The insurance provider
- The cargo loader
- The truck or parts manufacturer
When these types of cases go to court, evidence such as maintenance records, employment contracts, and safety reports is essential. In many cases, the driver is overworked, or the crash is linked to mechanical failure or neglect.
This is why it is important to have an experienced 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer alongside you. At the Law Offices of John C. Ye, we have handled many cases like this. We understand how to communicate effectively, protect your rights, and minimize delays. We also know how to dig for key pieces of evidence to build a strong case for you.
Understanding Compensation in Truck Accident Cases
So, if there are multiple liable parties, how does compensation work in cases like this? That’s a good question. Let’s break down how we handle claims at the Law Offices of John C. Ye.
Medical Bills and Future Care
The most important thing after a crash is your health and safety. From emergency care, surgeries, and ongoing physical therapy, medical bills are included in the compensation.
In truck accidents, victims often need long-term treatment and ongoing medical care. Compensation should cover both current medical bills and the care the victim may need in the future.
Lost Wages & Reduced Earning Capacity
After the crash, you are likely in the hospital recovering from your injuries. You can’t possibly work, which leads to lost income. Compensation will include all missed paychecks, and it will also account for reduced earning capacity if the victim cannot perform certain jobs after the accident.
For example, if the victim worked in a warehouse or suffered severe spinal injuries, they may no longer be able to lift heavy objects, reducing their ability to earn the same income.
Pain and Suffering
Sometimes the damage is not physical but emotional. Truck accidents are harrowing, and you may experience anxiety, sleep problems, or fear of driving after the event. These factors take a toll on your life. You shouldn’t have to bear the cost of living with crippling fear and anxiety for years. This is why non-economic damages are included as part of compensation.
Who Pays for a Truck Accident
Who pays for your compensation is an important question; however, the answer is not straightforward. Liability is often determined using a legal concept called comparative fault.
The Truck Driver’s Insurance
In most cases, a commercial truck driver carries insurance. That insurance does not always pay personal bills first. If the driver is covered under a large commercial policy owned by the trucking company, responsibility will be determined based on the cause of the accident—for example, whether the driver was speeding or distracted.
Third Parties
The driver may share responsibility with other parties, such as the cargo loading company or maintenance providers. If the crash was caused by something under their control, they will have to shoulder part of the liability.
For example, if faulty brakes caused the crash, the manufacturer is responsible for the defective equipment they supplied.
Ready to Take The Next Step?
At the Law Offices of John C. Ye, we help you collect evidence and build a strong case so that you can stand up to trucking companies and get the compensation you deserve.
Whether it is navigating complex legalities or negotiations with insurance adjusters, we are here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer do?
An 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer investigates crashes, identifies liable parties, and fights for your compensation. They handle insurance claims and guide you through complex legal steps.
When should I contact a semi truck accident attorney?
You should contact a semi truck accident attorney as soon as possible after the crash. Early involvement ensures evidence is preserved and your rights are protected.
Who can be held responsible in a big truck crash?
Liability may fall on the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loader, maintenance provider, or even the truck manufacturer. Fault is often divided based on each party’s contribution.
How much is my truck accident claim worth?
A truck accident injury attorney calculates compensation based on medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs. Every case is unique, depending on the severity of injuries.
How long do 18-wheeler accident claims usually take?
Cases can take a few months to several years. Factors like injury severity, liability disputes, and insurance negotiations all affect the timeline.
Can I sue a trucking company after a semi-truck crash?
Yes, you can. If the company’s actions or negligence contributed to the crash, a commercial truck accident attorney can help you hold them accountable.
What evidence is needed for a tractor-trailer accident case?
Important evidence includes driver logs, vehicle maintenance records, accident reports, dashcam footage, and eyewitness statements. An experienced lawyer ensures nothing is missed.
Are early insurance settlement offers fair?
Not always. Insurance companies often offer less than your true damages. A truck accident injury attorney can evaluate the offer and negotiate for full compensation.
What is the difference between economic and non-economic damages?
Economic damages cover measurable costs like medical bills and lost wages. Non-economic damages cover pain, suffering, and emotional distress. Both are included in truck accident claims.
How do I choose the best 18-wheeler accident lawyer?
Look for experience with truck accident cases, a track record of settlements or verdicts, and lawyers who communicate clearly. The right attorney makes the process much less stressful.
