18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers
18-wheelers—also called big rigs, tractor-trailers, and semi-trucks—are among the most dangerous vehicles on our roads. When these 80,000-pound giants cause accidents, the results are often catastrophic.
Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are So Devastating
The physics are simple but deadly: an 80,000-pound 18-wheeler traveling at 60 mph carries 20 times more force than a 4,000-pound car. This massive weight disparity means that when collisions occur, the occupants of passenger vehicles suffer the overwhelming majority of injuries and fatalities.
18-wheelers also have unique handling characteristics that make them more prone to certain types of accidents:
Jackknife Accidents
When the trailer swings out at a 90-degree angle from the cab, often caused by sudden braking or slick roads.
Rollover Accidents
High center of gravity makes 18-wheelers prone to tipping during sharp turns, especially when overloaded.
Underride Collisions
Smaller vehicles slide under the trailer in rear-end or side collisions, often decapitating occupants.
Blind Spot Crashes
18-wheelers have massive blind spots on all four sides, making lane changes particularly dangerous.
Tire Blowouts
Exploding tires can cause loss of control or send debris into other vehicles at highway speeds.
Wide Turn Accidents
Trucks swing wide during right turns, crushing vehicles in adjacent lanes.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents
Who Can Be Held Liable?
18-wheeler accidents often involve multiple liable parties, each potentially carrying separate insurance policies:
- Truck driver - For negligent driving
- Trucking company - For negligent hiring, training, supervision
- Cargo company - For improper loading
- Maintenance company - For negligent repairs
- Truck/parts manufacturer - For defective equipment
Compensation Available
Due to the severity of injuries and higher insurance limits, 18-wheeler accident settlements are often substantial:
- ✓ Medical expenses (current and future)
- ✓ Lost wages and earning capacity
- ✓ Pain and suffering
- ✓ Disability and disfigurement
- ✓ Emotional distress / PTSD
- ✓ Loss of enjoyment of life
- ✓ Property damage
- ✓ Punitive damages (in egregious cases)
Hit by an 18-Wheeler?
Trucking companies have teams of lawyers working against you. Get an experienced 18-wheeler accident attorney on your side—for free.
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