Accidents involving 18-wheelers can be devastating, causing serious injuries, damage, and emotional trauma. These types of accidents are more complex than typical car collisions because of the sheer size of the vehicles involved and the potential for significant impact. In the moments following an accident with an 18-wheeler, knowing the right steps to take can help protect your health, your rights, and your future.

If you or a loved one has been in an accident with an 18-wheeler, The Anastopoulo Law Firm is here to assist you. Available 24 hours a day and offering free consultations, The Anastopoulo Law Firm can be reached at 800-777-7777. With offices across the Carolinas, help is close by whenever you need it.

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

The first and most important step after an accident is to focus on your health. Even if you don’t feel severely hurt right away, some injuries may not show symptoms immediately but could worsen over time. Getting prompt medical attention is critical for your well-being and also provides documentation of your injuries, which is essential if you decide to seek compensation.

Why Prompt Medical Attention Matters

Accidents with 18-wheelers often result in more severe injuries due to the size and weight of these vehicles. Common injuries in these accidents can include fractures, traumatic brain injuries, whiplash, internal bleeding, and spinal injuries. Some of these injuries might not be immediately apparent, and ignoring them could lead to long-term complications. By seeing a healthcare provider promptly, you can identify any hidden injuries early and receive the treatment you need.

If emergency responders are on the scene, allow them to evaluate you. If they recommend a trip to the emergency room, consider following their advice, as delaying treatment can lead to complications and hinder your recovery.

Document Your Injuries

During your medical visit, ensure that your injuries are well-documented. Keep all records, including any X-rays, MRIs, prescriptions, and notes from your doctor. These documents may play a crucial role if you pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault party.

2. Document the Accident Scene and Gather Evidence

The aftermath of a collision with an 18-wheeler can be chaotic, but if you’re physically able to do so, gathering evidence from the scene can significantly support your case. The information you collect can help provide a clear picture of what happened, how it happened, and who may be responsible.

Take Photos and Videos

Use your phone to capture photos and videos of the accident scene, including:

  • Damage to your vehicle and the 18-wheeler.
  • Any skid marks, debris, or damaged structures nearby.
  • Road and weather conditions at the time of the accident.
  • The positioning of both vehicles and any other involved vehicles.

Try to take multiple angles to give a comprehensive view of the accident. These visuals may help reconstruct the accident and provide support for your version of events if your case goes to court.

Gather Contact Information and Witness Statements

Exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver. If there were any witnesses to the accident, get their contact details as well, as they may provide valuable insights into the events leading up to the accident. Witness statements can be instrumental in establishing what occurred and who may be at fault.

Report the Accident to Law Enforcement

Calling law enforcement to the scene is crucial after an accident with an 18-wheeler. The police will investigate, document the incident, and file an official accident report. Request a copy of this report when it becomes available, as it will serve as a key document if you pursue a claim. The report may contain essential details about the accident, contributing factors, and preliminary determinations of fault.

3. Contact an Attorney

Accidents involving 18-wheelers often entail a more complex legal process due to the regulations surrounding commercial trucks, potential involvement of multiple parties, and the trucking companies’ resources. These companies frequently have legal teams and insurers ready to protect their interests. Seeking legal representation can help level the playing field and ensure you’re not navigating the process alone.

The Anastopoulo Law Firm is available 24 hours a day to help guide you through the legal aspects of your case. They can be contacted at 800-777-7777 for a free consultation, with offices conveniently located across the Carolinas.

Why You Shouldn’t Delay Legal Help

After an accident, time is of the essence. Evidence can deteriorate, memories can fade, and there are legal deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, that restrict the time frame in which you can file a claim. The sooner you contact a lawyer, the sooner they can start building a strong case on your behalf by gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, and negotiating with insurance companies.

How a Lawyer Can Assist You After an 18-Wheeler Accident

Navigating the legal aftermath of an accident with an 18-wheeler can be challenging. Here’s how an attorney can support you in the process:

  • Investigating the Accident: Your lawyer can conduct a detailed investigation to determine the cause of the accident and identify all responsible parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, and potentially even the vehicle manufacturer if a mechanical failure was involved.
  • Handling Communication with Insurers: Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement, often for far less than what you deserve. Your attorney can handle all communications, ensuring that your interests are prioritized and that you’re not pressured into accepting an inadequate settlement.
  • Negotiating a Fair Settlement: An experienced attorney can negotiate with the trucking company’s insurers to seek fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Potential Compensation After an 18-Wheeler Accident

If you decide to pursue a personal injury claim after an accident with an 18-wheeler, you may be eligible for various types of compensation, depending on the specifics of your case. Here are some of the common forms of compensation victims pursue:

  • Medical Expenses: This includes both current and future medical bills related to your injuries, such as hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and follow-up appointments.
  • Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from returning to work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. If the injuries have long-term impacts on your ability to work, this could also include future earning potential.
  • Pain and Suffering: The physical pain and emotional distress caused by an accident can be significant. Compensation for pain and suffering seeks to address the non-economic toll the accident has taken on your life.
  • Property Damage: Compensation for damage to your vehicle and any personal belongings affected in the accident may also be included in your claim.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents

Understanding the causes of 18-wheeler accidents can provide insight into what factors may have contributed to your collision. While each accident is unique, some common causes include:

  • Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often operate under tight deadlines, which can lead to fatigue. Fatigued driving is a major factor in many 18-wheeler accidents, and federal regulations mandate rest breaks to reduce these risks.
  • Mechanical Failures: Issues with brakes, tires, or other critical components can lead to devastating accidents. Both trucking companies and drivers have a responsibility to maintain their vehicles properly.
  • Improper Loading: Cargo that is improperly loaded or unsecured can shift during transit, causing the driver to lose control. Overloading can also create additional hazards on the road.
  • Driver Error: Distracted driving, speeding, and other negligent actions on the part of the truck driver can lead to accidents. The driver’s conduct is often closely examined in any investigation.

Conclusion

An accident involving an 18-wheeler can have serious consequences for you and your loved ones. By taking the right steps, such as seeking medical care, documenting the scene, and contacting a lawyer, you can protect yourself and pursue fair compensation.

The Anastopoulo Law Firm is here to help you navigate this challenging time, ensuring your rights are upheld and that you receive the guidance you need. Available 24 hours a day, The Anastopoulo Law Firm can be reached at 800-777-7777 for a free consultation. With offices across the Carolinas, they’re ready to assist you whenever you need them.