When a semi-truck or 18-wheeler collides with a smaller vehicle, the results can be catastrophic. The sheer size and weight of these trucks often lead to severe injuries, extensive property damage, and even fatalities. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, you need experienced legal representation to navigate the complexities of these cases and secure the compensation you deserve.
At Chaz Roberts Law, we specialize in representing victims of truck accidents throughout Louisiana. Our legal team understands the unique challenges posed by truck accident cases, from the multiple parties involved to the federal regulations that govern the trucking industry. We are committed to advocating for your rights and ensuring that you receive the justice and compensation you need to recover and rebuild your life.
How Do 18-Wheeler Accidents Happen?
Truck accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, many of which are preventable and stem from negligence. Some of the most common causes of 18-wheeler accidents include:
- Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers are often under pressure to meet tight deadlines, leading to long hours on the road without sufficient rest. Fatigued drivers are more likely to make critical errors, such as falling asleep at the wheel or failing to react quickly to changing traffic conditions.
- Speeding: Due to their size and weight, trucks require longer stopping distances. When truck drivers exceed speed limits, especially in adverse weather conditions or on congested roads, they increase the risk of losing control and causing a serious accident.
- Distracted Driving: Like any other driver, truck drivers can become distracted by their phones, GPS devices, or other in-cab activities. Even a momentary lapse in attention can result in a devastating crash.
- Improper Maintenance: Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring that their vehicles are properly maintained and safe to operate. Neglected maintenance, such as failing to check brakes, tires, or lights, can lead to mechanical failures that cause accidents.
- Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo: When a truck is overloaded or its cargo is not properly secured, it can affect the vehicle’s balance and handling, increasing the likelihood of rollovers or jackknife accidents.
- Reckless Driving: Some truck drivers may engage in aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, or making abrupt lane changes, putting everyone on the road at risk.
Who Can Be Held Liable After A Truck Accident?
One of the biggest questions in these types of cases is where is the money coming from? Whether you settle out of court or go through the entire cycle, understanding who is responsible for covering the damages is essential.
Unfortunately, determining liability in a truck accident can be more complicated than in a typical car accident, as multiple parties may be responsible for the crash. Potentially liable parties include:
- The Truck Driver: If the driver’s negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence, caused the accident, they can be held liable.
- The Trucking Company: The company that employs the driver may be held responsible if they failed to enforce safety regulations, encouraged unsafe driving practices, or neglected to maintain the vehicle properly.
- The Cargo Loader: If the accident was caused by improperly loaded or secured cargo, the company or individuals responsible for loading the truck could be liable.
- The Vehicle Manufacturer: If a mechanical failure, such as brake or tire failure, contributed to the accident, the manufacturer of the faulty part could be held accountable.
- Third-Party Maintenance Providers: If an outside company was responsible for the truck’s maintenance and failed to perform necessary repairs, they could also be liable.
Identifying all potentially liable parties is crucial to maximizing your compensation. A skilled attorney can investigate the accident and determine who is responsible.
How An Attorney Can Help Your Accident Claim
Navigating a truck accident claim is a complex process that requires legal expertise and a deep understanding of the trucking industry. At Chaz Roberts Law, our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through every step of your claim.
Possible Damages To Recover After A Truck Accident
Victims of truck accidents often face significant financial burdens, in addition to the physical and emotional toll of their injuries. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be entitled to recover various types of damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: This includes compensation for current and future medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and any necessary medical equipment or modifications to your home.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to recover lost wages, as well as compensation for any future loss of earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Truck accident victims often experience severe pain, emotional distress, and a diminished quality of life. Compensation for pain and suffering is intended to address these non-economic damages.
- Property Damage: If your vehicle or other personal property was damaged in the accident, you could be compensated for repair or replacement costs.
- Punitive Damages: In cases where the truck driver or company’s conduct was particularly reckless or egregious, you may be awarded punitive damages, which are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
Contact Our Firm Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. The experienced attorneys at Chaz Roberts Law are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (337) 504-3202 for a free consultation and let us help you navigate the legal process with confidence.
