The Representation You Need From A Baytown 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Lawyer

When an automobile collides with an 18-wheeler, the resulting injuries are almost always devastating and life-changing. Even when there is an obvious liability in a crash, there is still no guarantee that you will receive the compensation you need. Thankfully, there is help you can rely on for your compensation claim.

At Law Offices of Mark D. VanCleave, PLLC, we offer our clients aggressive representation in their injury claims. We do not let trucking companies and their legal teams bully us into accepting minimal settlement offers. Our process is to build your compensation claim by thoroughly investigating the collision and understanding what caused the accident. Then we fight tenaciously to protect your best interests and get you the compensation you deserve.

The Differences: 18-Wheeler Accidents Versus Car Accidents

18-wheeler accidents differ considerably from typical car crashes, often resulting in more serious consequences. The key differences are:

• Injury severity: Because of their size and weight, 18-wheelers often cause much more serious injuries or even fatalities compared to accidents involving only cars.
• Case complexity: These cases can involve many different parties, such as the truck driver, the trucking company, and sometimes even the manufacturers of the truck or its parts. This makes the legal process more complicated.
• Federal regulations: There are strict federal rules for 18-wheeler operations. These rules cover driver hours, vehicle maintenance, cargo loading and safety inspections. These regulations are far more comprehensive than those for standard passenger vehicles.
• Insurance coverage: Trucking companies usually have much larger insurance policies than individual car owners. This affects how insurance companies handle claims and the amount of compensation you might receive.
• Evidence gathering: Investigating an 18-wheeler accident requires specific trucking knowledge and resources. It’s important to collect and analyze specific evidence, like data from the truck’s “black box” and the driver’s logs.
• Damage to property and infrastructure: 18-wheelers need more space to stop and make wider turns, which can result in extensive damage to other vehicles and even roads or other structures.

These factors show why you need experienced lawyers for 18-wheeler accident cases. At Law Offices of Mark D. VanCleave, PLLC, we’ve handled many of these complex accidents and know how to address the challenges they bring.

What Causes 18-Wheeler Accidents?

While 18-wheeler accidents are not as common as collisions between two cars, they can cause much greater damage and involve very serious injuries. While 18-wheelers are highly regulated, that does not always prevent trucking companies from employing cost-saving tactics that ultimately make sharing the road with them unsafe.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the majority of 18-wheeler accidents are caused by driver error. Over half of the accidents caused by driver error involved drivers who were fatigued and/or taking prescription or over-the-counter medication.

Common Injuries After 18-Wheeler Crashes

Because of how big and heavy 18-wheelers are, collisions with these vehicles often lead to more severe injuries than typical car accidents. These injuries can range from relatively minor to life-threatening or even fatal. Common injuries seen in 18-wheeler accidents include broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), internal organ damage and severe burns.

The force of impact in these crashes can also lead to soft tissue injuries, such as whiplash or severe muscle strains, which, while not always immediately apparent, can cause intense pain and disability over time.

Who Is Responsible For Your Injuries After A 18-Wheeler Accident?

In 18-wheeler accidents, the driver of the truck may be liable for your injuries. However, trucking companies may also be liable and pay damages for your injuries. Damages can include compensation for physical, emotional and financial losses that were caused by the accident.

Law Offices of Mark D. VanCleave, PLLC, can help you get the compensation you deserve in order to help you pay for your injuries and their follow-up care. Call us at 281-720-6881 or complete this online form for a free consultation.

Your Next Steps After An 18-Wheeler Accident

After an 18-wheeler accident, taking the right steps can greatly affect both your health and any potential legal claim you might have. Here’s what you should do:

• Seek medical attention immediately
• Call the police
• Document the scene. Photograph the damage to all vehicles involved.
• Gather the truck driver’s company and insurance information
• Don’t admit fault
• Do not give a statement to the trucking company adjuster
• Contact your insurance company
• Seek follow-up medical care
• Keep medical and other expense records

After taking these initial steps, call our firm. An 18-wheeler accident lawyer can protect your rights and guide you through the often complex legal process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents In Texas

At Law Offices of Mark D. VanCleave, PLLC, we understand you’re likely feeling overwhelmed and have many questions. Here are some of the most common concerns our clients share with us after a truck accident: 

What is the statute of limitations for truck accidents in Texas? 

In Texas, you can file a personal injury suit two years from the date of the accident. While this may seem like a long time, it can pass quickly, especially when dealing with injuries and recovery.

How much is my truck accident case worth? 

Every case is unique, and the value depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. While we can’t guarantee a specific amount, your life has been turned upside down. We can help set it right.

How is fault determined in a truck accident? 

Determining fault in a truck accident means looking at many different pieces of the puzzle. This includes investigating the accident scene, reviewing police reports and, sometimes, consulting accident reconstruction professionals. It’s a complex process, but our experience helps us put all the pieces together.

Why do I need a truck accident lawyer? 

Truck accident cases are far more complex than typical car accidents. You’re up against big trucking companies with teams of lawyers. You need someone in your corner who understands complex trucking laws and regulations. Mr. VanCleave can advocate for your rights and your future.

Why should I get an attorney for a truck accident? 

A personal injury attorney with experience in 18-wheeler accidents can make all the difference in your case. We know the tactics insurance companies use to minimize payouts. We understand the complexities of truck accidents. Most importantly, we allow you to focus on healing while we handle the legal battle. You’ve been through enough – let us shoulder this burden for you.

You Need Help Figuring Out An 18-Wheeler Accident

If you or someone you love has been injured in a collision with a commercial truck, reach out to Mr. VanCleave, a lawyer who has the experience and knowledge needed to gather the evidence about a car or truck accident necessary to bring an effective injury claim.

Call 281-720-6881 or use our website to set up your free consultation in our Baytown, Texas, office. We welcome inquiries from people throughout Harris County, Chambers County and beyond. Clients from communities such as Highlands, Crosby, Channelview, La Porte, Liberty, Dayton, Mont Belvieu and Anahuac can start getting help today. We offer service for personal injury cases on a contingency basis. You only pay if we recover damages.