Accident Lawyer

Things to know if Involved in 18 Wheeler Accident to Get Compensation

You deserve compensation if you have been involved in an 18-wheeler accident and suffered injuries or property damage. Find out how the best 18 wheeler accident lawyers can help you get the compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident, it can be a traumatizing experience. The size and weight of these vehicles make them incredibly dangerous on the road, and accidents involving 18-wheelers often result in severe injuries and fatalities. In such cases, we must seek the help of an experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyer.

Here’s everything you need to know about 18-wheeler accident lawyers:

What is an 18-wheeler accident lawyer?

An 18-wheeler accident lawyer is a specialized personal injury lawyer who represents clients involved in accidents with commercial trucks, such as tractor-trailers, big rigs, and semi-trucks. These attorneys have experience handling the unique legal and logistical challenges of 18-wheeler accidents, including investigating the accident scene, identifying liable parties, and negotiating with insurance companies.

Why Hire the Best 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer?

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident, you may face significant medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. An experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyer can help you recover compensation for these damages by filing a personal injury claim on your behalf. They can also help you navigate the legal process, deal with insurance companies, and protect your rights.

When it comes to 18 wheeler accidents, the stakes are high. These accidents often involve multiple parties, including the driver, trucking companies, and insurance companies.

Navigating the legal system and negotiating with these parties independently can be challenging.

Here are some reasons why hiring the best 18 wheeler accident lawyer:

  1. They have experience: A good 18 wheeler accident lawyer has experience dealing with these types of cases. They understand the complexities involved and know how to navigate the legal system to get you the compensation you deserve.
  2. They can help you get the compensation you deserve: A good 18-wheeler accident lawyer can help you get compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. They can also help you recover damages for property damage, including your vehicle.
  3. They can negotiate with insurance companies: They will try to minimize their liability and pay you as little as possible. A good 18-wheeler accident lawyer can deal with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure that you get a fair settlement.
  4. They can represent you in court: If your case goes to court, a good 18-wheeler accident lawyer can represent you and fight for your rights.

What kind of damages can I recover in an 18-wheeler accident case?

The damages you can recover in an 18-wheeler accident case will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. However, common injuries include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and other related costs. In some cases, you may also be able to recover punitive damages, which are meant to punish the at-fault party for their reckless or negligent behavior.

How do I choose an 18-wheeler accident lawyer?

When choosing an 18-wheeler accident lawyer, looking for someone with experience handling these cases is important. It would be best to look for an attorney with a track record of success in recovering client compensation. Additionally, you should consider their communication style, fees, and availability.

What should I do if I’m involved in an 18-wheeler accident?

If you are involved in an 18-wheeler accident, you should first seek medical attention for any injuries you or your passengers have sustained. Then, you should call the police to report the accident and document the scene. You should also take photos of the accident scene and exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved. Finally, you should contact an experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyer immediately.

What should I expect during an 18-wheeler accident case?

During an 18-wheeler accident case, your attorney will investigate the accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to recover compensation for your damages. Depending on the case’s complexity, this process can take several months or even years. In some cases, your attorney may recommend settling the point out of court, while in others, they may recommend taking the case to trial.

How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit?

The statute of limitations for filing an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit varies by state. In most states, you must file a lawsuit two to three years from the accident date. However, there may be exceptions depending on the circumstances of your case, so you must consult with an experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyer as soon as possible.

How much does an 18-wheeler accident lawyer cost?

Most 18-wheeler accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they recover compensation for you. Typically, the fee is a percentage of the amount recovered, ranging from 33% to 40%. Discuss fees and payment arrangements with your attorney before hiring them.

What should I look for in an 18-wheeler accident lawyer?

When looking for an 18-wheeler accident lawyer, you must find someone experienced, knowledgeable, and compassionate. They should have a track record of success in handling 18-wheeler accident cases and be able to provide references from previous clients. They should also explain the legal process in a way that you can understand and be willing to answer any questions you may have.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?

In some states, you may still be able to recover compensation for your damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. This is known as comparative negligence, meaning that your injuries will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. An experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyer can help you understand the laws in your state and how they may affect your case.

Can I negotiate with the insurance company myself?

While you can negotiate with the insurance company, it is not recommended. Insurance companies are for-profit businesses whose goal is to pay out as little as possible for claims. An experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyer can help you navigate the complex insurance claims process and negotiate for the maximum compensation you deserve.

What if the other driver was not an employee of the trucking company?

Suppose the other driver involved in the accident was not an employee of the trucking company. In that case, you might still be able to recover compensation from the trucking company if they were negligent in hiring or supervising the driver. An experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyer can investigate the circumstances of the accident and determine the liable parties.

What if the trucking company denies liability?

If the trucking company denies liability for the accident, your attorney may need to file a lawsuit to recover compensation for your damages. During the lawsuit, your attorney will present evidence to prove that the trucking company was at fault for the accident. Sometimes, the trucking company may settle the case out of court to avoid a lengthy and expensive legal battle.

How to Find the Best 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer:

Now that you understand the importance of hiring the best 18 wheeler accident lawyer, here are some tips on how to find one:

  1. Look for experience: Look for a lawyer who has experience dealing with 18-wheeler accident cases. They should have a track record of success and be able to provide references from past clients.
  2. Check their credentials: Make sure the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with the state bar association. You can also check their online reviews to see what past clients say about their experience.
  3. Schedule a consultation: Most 18 wheeler accident lawyers offer free consultations. Take advantage of this and schedule a consultation with a few lawyers to find the best fit for your case.
  4. Ask questions: During your consultation, ask the lawyer about their experience, fees, and how they plan to handle your case. Make sure you feel comfortable with their approach and communication style.

How can I prevent 18-wheeler accidents?

To prevent 18-wheeler accidents, one must follow safe driving practices, such as maintaining a safe distance from commercial trucks, avoiding blind spots, and not driving in their no-zones. You should also ensure your vehicle is properly maintained and equipped with safety features like airbags and anti-lock brakes.

Conclusion

Being involved in an 18-wheeler accident can be a traumatic experience, but with the help of an experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyer, you can recover the compensation you deserve for your damages. When choosing a lawyer, look for someone knowledgeable, professional, and compassionate. They should be able to guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights every step of the way. Remember, you have limited time to file a lawsuit, so don’t wait to seek legal help if you have been involved in an 18-wheeler accident.

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