18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer
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18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer servicing Texas. According to the IIHS, there were a total of 3,514 fatal 18 wheeler accidents in 2012. This number is 12% higher than it was in 2009. The total number of people who died in 18-wheeler accidents also increased 32% from that same time period. If Have you been injured in an 18-wheeler accident, call us at 713-829-4317. First, please get medical attention. If you need help finding medical attention, Attorney John D. Pascoe might be able to help you with this process. Driver errors, or the errors from the company that owns the 18 wheeler, can cause deadly accidents and are common causes for 18 wheeler crashes. 18 Wheeler drivers and 18 Wheeler companies are under pressure to deliver goods on time no matter what the increased risk maybe from meeting the deadline. Unfortunately, that often means that safety can suffer as a result.
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Experienced 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer
Our 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer can handle a wide variety of commercial 18 wheeler accident cases. The following are some of the most common causes of 18-wheeler accidents: an 18-wheeler driver may drive too many hours and not get appropriate rest, this is a result from drowsiness, and sometimes drugs that combat drowsiness can cause accidents too. Another common cause is due to an improperly secured or unsecured load causing the 18 wheeler to be dangerously unbalanced, especially when combined with rapid lane changes and aggressive driving. Maintenance is critical, especially for an 18-wheeler carrying tons of cargo. Tires must be secured and monitored. Brakes and other crucial equipment must be in good repair. Side mirrors and other visibility tools must be in good repair and properly placed. Additionally, driver inattention or driver error at highway speeds or on city streets is one of the most common causes of 18-wheeler accidents. The driver may be checking an on-board computer, a GPS system or talking or texting on a cell phone.
Common Types of 18 Wheeler Collisions
An accident with a large 18-wheeler can happen in many different ways. However, there are six that are the most common in causing fatalities. It is important to know the dangers of sharing the roads with these 18-wheelers so that we as motorists can recognize and try to avoid the most common causes of accidents driving next to them on the roads, highways, and interstates. According to a vehicle accident survey, the report surveyed 22,000 18-wheeler accidents to learn the most common types of collisions. They found that six occurred more often than others.
The six most common types of 18 wheeler collisions include:
- Straight Collision- is the most deadly type of 18-wheeler accidents accounted for 3,189 deaths on the roadways. These accidents occur when the 18-wheeler goes straight into the other vehicle.
- Head-On Collisions- was the second most common type of accident that occurred. There were 2,980 deaths from head on collisions were the 18-wheeler and the vehicle collided into the front of another vehicle. This could be from sharing a narrow two lane road with these vehicles and encroaching into the middle or opposite lane while trying to pass.
- Side-Swipe Accident- the second most common type of accident was were the 18-wheeler or vehicle collision occurred on the side of the vehicle. Many of these are because of the vehicle coming into the 18-wheeler. There were 1,808 fatal 18-wheeler accidents that involved vehicles that were side swiped. This statistic remained about constant across all types of commercial vehicles.
- Vehicles Turning into 18 Wheeler- vehicles need to learn to give these large 18-wheelers space while on the roadway. Vehicles turning into or cutting off the 18-wheeler accounted for 1,450 fatalities while driving. Vehicles will often try to get in front of an 18-wheeler because they are in a hurry and do not want to be traveling behind them because they believe they are slow. Unfortunately, many of these accidents are caused by the vehicle not providing the 18-wheeler with enough space.
- Rear-End Collisions- there were 1,329 fatal accidents on the roadway involving a rear-end collision with an 18-wheeler. It is very common for cars to actually rear-end the 18-wheeler to cause the fatal accidents. To be fair there were a fair amount of cases that have an 18-wheeler that rear ended the vehicles in front of them as well. These are often tragic accidents that have deadly results. Please remember to give large 18-wheelers space while on the road. Cutting of these big rig 18-wheelers can have deadly results.
- 18-Wheeler Turning Accidents- this type of accident accounted for 822 fatalities. 18 Wheeler turning accidents occur when the vehicle is turning and collides with the car or SUV trying to make the turn. Many large 18-wheelers turn very slowly and need space to maneuver in narrow areas. Many 18-wheeler drivers have blind spots in what they can see while driving so it is best to give plenty of room while sharing the road.
Guide for Dealing with Injuries Sustained in a Texas 18-Wheeler Accident
Get Medical Attention As Soon As Possible
First, please get medical attention you are hurt. Medical treatment is important part of a car accident case. The adjuster will evaluate your case based upon your injuries. If you do not go to the doctor the insurance company will assume that you were not injured. Think of the chiropractor or medical doctor as the author of your story of how this 18-wheeler accident impacted your body. Their medical records will be the story how you were injured and your treatment and recovery.
Call the Police and Get a Police Report Following an 18 Wheeler Accident
If possible, please remember to get a police report every time you have been in a motor vehicle accident. It is important to take photos of the collision before moving the vehicles, if safe to do so. Often times, the person who hit your vehicle might seem trustworthy and they might not want to go through insurance process. Make sure you protect yourself by getting the police report and taking photos.
Don't Admit Fault
The truth is that you don't know if a person you just met is trustworthy or not. You may be in shock from having been just hit by an 18 wheeler. You might not know how all the laws might apply to different facts. Never admit fault, even if pressed to make a statement declaring your responsibility. Be honest about the facts. But be a journalist—do not editorialize. Make sure to protect yourself by not agreeing to anything until you know the full scope of your damage.
Exchange Information and Gather Information
Additionally, make sure to record the other driver's license number and insurance information to make sure they are not just giving you false information. Trade your telephone, address, insurance carrier, full legal name, license plate number, and additional contact information with all other drivers involved in the crash. Take Photos of your vehicle and the other driver's vehicle. Gather names and telephone number of any witness that might have seen the 18-wheeler accident take place.
Lawyer For 18 Wheeler Accidents
After an 18 Wheeler Crash, call our Houston/Galveston area 18 Wheeler accident Lawyer. 18-wheeler and other big rigs involved in accidents often cause very serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, lost limbs, back and neck, or even spinal cord injuries due to the collision. These life-changing injuries can interfere with your obligations to your family and your job, which in turn can limit your ability to pay your bills and even to do things you once enjoyed. 18-wheeler accident in the Houston and Galveston area, you can count on the Pascoe Law firm in the League City, Texas area. Attorney John D. Pascoe understands the complex causes that can make commercial 18-wheeler accident injuries so devastating. He will do everything possible to help you recover after a collision with an 18-wheeler or other large vehicle.
18 Wheeler Accident Reports and Statistical Information
Large 18 Wheeler- about 1 in 10 highway deaths occurs in a crash involving a large 18 Wheeler.
Large 18 Wheeler and Bus Crash Facts - 2011
Large 18 Wheeler and Bus Crash Facts - 2010
Large 18 Wheeler and Bus Crash Facts - 2011
Large 18 Wheeler and Bus Crash Facts - 2010
Common Types of 18 Wheeler Crashes |
Causes of 18 Wheeler Accidents |
The 18-Wheeler Accident Process
The Accident
18-Wheeler accidents can change your life in an instant. Before you assume the worst, find a safe place and seek medical attention. When you’ve been hurt in an 18-Wheeler accident, your first concern should be your health. The impact could have left you with serious injuries of the spine, neck, back, or more. Your injuries could disrupt work, family, and personal obligations. However, they don’t have to have a long-term negative impact.
Your Medical Care
Treating your injuries is a priority following an 18-wheeler accident. Try not to feel overwhelmed with the thought of paying for your medical expenses – focus on getting healthy first. If your injuries require immediate medical attention, you may find yourself in a hospital or a doctor’s office. This may cause some anxiety, and that’s completely natural. At this point, you’re likely wondering how you’re going to pay for your medical care and how much your insurance will cover. To make matters more stressful, you may be visited by members of law enforcement in order to complete their accident report. Remain calm and do not admit fault for the accident. If you have questions about what you should disclose in your accident report, contact us to learn more about your rights.
The Scene, the Police Report, and Notification
The accident scene tells a story. The at-fault insurance company will have their side. Make sure you gather enough information to tell your side. If you don’t have to immediately leave the scene to tend to injuries, you should gather contact information and document everything: take pictures, talk to witnesses, etc. During this time, stay calm and don’t admit fault. Always report the accident to police and then your insurance provider. Most importantly, once you are able, talk to an auto accident lawyer at the Pascoe Law Firm. We recommend talking to a lawyer before speaking with an insurance company.
Vehicle Repairs
Understanding the damage to your vehicle and whether it can be fixed is important. The first thing to assess is whether your vehicle is drivable, which also gives you a sense of the repairs needed. If the damage is minor, then having the vehicle repaired may be the best step. If you have adequate car insurance coverage, you may be able to be reimbursed for a vehicle rental expenses while your vehicle is being repaired. If not, we may be able to make a claim against the other driver’s insurance company. Some vehicle damage is so severe that fixing the vehicle isn’t the best option. The repair shop and your insurance provider may not have your best interests in mind when it comes to repairing your vehicle. Call us so we can fight to help you get what you deserve.
Paperwork and Phone Calls With Insurance Company
You’re going to get an incredible amount of mail and phone calls related to your accident, insurance claim, and bills. Let us take care of that for you. When you have been hurt in a car accident, it’s inevitable that you’re going to be hit with an onslaught of paperwork – most of which will seem completely foreign to you. This is where hiring a personal injury lawyer who values open communication is incredibly important. At the Pascoe Law Firm, we think it’s important to minimize the stress you feel due to your accident. We go to painstaking efforts to handle all communication with the insurance companies, law enforcement, and medical professionals related to your accident. We also strive to keep you informed throughout the process, so you know exactly where your case stands.
A Denied Insurance Claim or a Settlement Offer
After investigating your accident, the insurance company may offer you a settlement. Don’t sign it. If your claim is denied, don’t give up. Insurance providers are in the business of making money. It’s common for insurance carriers to offer a settlement that is well below what you deserve. The amount owed to you should be based upon medical bills, car repairs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We can help you make sense of what has been offered and determine whether the insurance offer should be accepted, or if a counter demand should be made. If your claim has been denied, you may still have options. There are a number of valid reasons why an insurance company might deny your claim. However, there are also situations where your claim is unjustly denied.
Demanding Appropriate Compensation
Your claim is likely worth more than you’ve been offered. We can help determine the true value – and then work to get you what you’re owed. Once all of your damages and expenses related to your accident are understood, then your personal injury lawyer will put together an initial demand or a counter demand, if an initial settlement offer was presented by the insurance carrier. The insurance provider then must decide to accept the demand, continue to negotiate with your lawyer, or deny the demand. Let the experienced 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer at Pascoe Law Firm handle this for you.
Settling Your Case or Going to Trial
Many cases can be settled without having to go to trial. However, when negotiations break down, a trial may be necessary. A settlement occurs when both parties are able to come to terms on a dollar amount. When this happens, the case does not go to trial. Instead, an agreement is signed by both parties and you are issued a settlement check. If the case goes to court, the judge or jury will decide whether or not you should receive compensation. The court will render a judgment against the other party if the case is found in your favor. Remember, you don’t pay until we win.
18 Wheeler Accident Checklist
Individuals who have suffered personal injury due to an 18 wheeler accident in Texas have a right to litigate for damages. To assure the best chances of maximum compensation for Texas 18 wheeler accidents, it is worthwhile to follow several simple steps following the accident. An accident checklist will minimize the risk of lessened compensation. At Pascoe Law Firm, we can answer any questions you may have with regard to 18 wheeler accidents
Attend to medical needs – Health is always of primary importance, and if needed, assures that immediate health needs are met. Contact 911 if needed, and assure maximum safety by moving away from a dangerous situation. If possible, record the time and the location of the accident, the 911 contact and any other details for your immediate care.
Record driver information – Record as much information as you can from the 18 wheeler driver, including name, license, insurance, 18 wheeler registration, company worked for, and any other relevant data.
Record witness information – if there were any witnesses to the event, record their names and contact information.
Take pictures and other records – If you can, write a summary of the events that happened. Take pictures of your damaged vehicle, the 18 wheeler, points of impact, damaged surrounding material and more.
Be careful with 18 wheeler claim adjusters – 18 wheeler companies frequently dispatch an adjuster following 18 wheeler accidents. They take pictures, records, statements etc. to help in the 18 wheeler company’s defense. Do not talk with the adjuster regarding the accident or the events leading up to it – explain that you will seek legal counsel and the adjuster can talk to them.
Obtain records of medical attention – when you get medical attention, make sure you do so from a qualified physician. Make sure the physician records all symptoms and provides you with a full report of injuries, related as clearly as possible to the effects of the 18 wheeler accident.
Engage the services of a Texas 18 wheeler accident attorney – the process of receiving fair compensation for the personal injury you suffered due to the 18 wheeler accident can be complex and difficult. Utilize the services of an Texas 18 wheeler accident attorney to assure that the right steps are taken and followed to enable the receipt of the maximum possible compensation for your personal injury.
Record driver information – Record as much information as you can from the 18 wheeler driver, including name, license, insurance, 18 wheeler registration, company worked for, and any other relevant data.
Record witness information – if there were any witnesses to the event, record their names and contact information.
Take pictures and other records – If you can, write a summary of the events that happened. Take pictures of your damaged vehicle, the 18 wheeler, points of impact, damaged surrounding material and more.
Be careful with 18 wheeler claim adjusters – 18 wheeler companies frequently dispatch an adjuster following 18 wheeler accidents. They take pictures, records, statements etc. to help in the 18 wheeler company’s defense. Do not talk with the adjuster regarding the accident or the events leading up to it – explain that you will seek legal counsel and the adjuster can talk to them.
Obtain records of medical attention – when you get medical attention, make sure you do so from a qualified physician. Make sure the physician records all symptoms and provides you with a full report of injuries, related as clearly as possible to the effects of the 18 wheeler accident.
Engage the services of a Texas 18 wheeler accident attorney – the process of receiving fair compensation for the personal injury you suffered due to the 18 wheeler accident can be complex and difficult. Utilize the services of an Texas 18 wheeler accident attorney to assure that the right steps are taken and followed to enable the receipt of the maximum possible compensation for your personal injury.
Attorney for 18 Wheeler Accidents in Houston Area
Many 18-wheeler accidents can cause severe damage even at lower speeds. An 18-wheeler can exert a powerful amount of force and pressure. Many are designed with different features in mind and this can greatly impact the scope of your 18-wheeler accident. An accident with 18 wheeler can cause extensive damage and injuries to the those involved in the accident. It is always horrible to hear that someone has been in injured as the result of an 18 wheeler accident. The driver who gets hit by 18-wheeler can be seriously injured and could face a length recover time from their personal injuries associated with a crash. Unfortunately, 18 wheeler accidents are fairly common in Galveston, League City, and around the Houston area. Many drivers might never see the other vehicle coming towards them before they get hit. Many may never able to fully recover from their injury and may even pass away from the catastrophic injuries that can occur in more tragic 18-wheeler accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured or suffered property damage because of an 18 wheeler accident please contact our lawyer who can help guide during through this difficult period in your life.
Protect Your Legal Rights Following An 18 Wheeler Accident
At the Pascoe Law Firm, we fight to protect your legal rights following an 18 Wheeler Accident. If you or someone you love was injured in an 18-wheeler accident in the Houston and Galveston area, you can count on the Pascoe Law firm in the League City, Texas area. Attorney John D. Pascoe understands the complex causes that can make 18 wheeler accident injuries so devastating. He will do everything possible to help you recover after a collision with an 18-wheeler or other large vehicle. Call our 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer at 713-829-4317.
Areas We Service For 18-Wheeler Accidents
Frequently Asked Questions
Steps For After A 18 Wheeler Accident
How Long Does It Take To Settle A 18 Wheeler Accident Case Involving Involving Injuries?
How To Hire A Texas 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer
How Much Does It Cost For A Texas 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer To Represent Me?
Federal 18 Wheeler Regulations
What to Do When You are Contacted by an Insurance Company After a 18 Wheeler Crash
What Are the Most Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents?
18 Wheeler Insurance Claims
How Long Does It Take To Settle A 18 Wheeler Accident Case Involving Involving Injuries?
How To Hire A Texas 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer
How Much Does It Cost For A Texas 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer To Represent Me?
Federal 18 Wheeler Regulations
What to Do When You are Contacted by an Insurance Company After a 18 Wheeler Crash
What Are the Most Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents?
18 Wheeler Insurance Claims
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