The screeching tires, crushing metal, and feeling of helplessness—surviving an 18-wheeler accident is a nightmare few can imagine. But the aftermath is all too real. Severe injuries, disability, lost wages, and emotional trauma plague victims long after the wreckage is cleared. Facing the insurance claims, medical bills, auto repairs, and legal battles alone can quickly become overwhelming on top of coping with injuries. That’s why partnering with an experienced law firm is crucial after an 18-wheeler crash.
This article explains why semi-truck accidents are uniquely dangerous and outlines the benefits of having a dedicated firm like Karns & Karns on your side. We detail what to do following a crash, the risks of handling your claim alone, and why contacting Karns & Karns Truck Accident Attorneys for a free case evaluation could be the call that finally puts your life back on track after a devastating collision with a big rig.
The Dangers of 18-Wheeler Accidents
18-wheelers, also known as semi-trucks or tractor trailers, pose unique risks compared to standard passenger vehicles. Here are some key factors:
- Weight – Loaded 18-wheelers can weigh 20-30 times more than typical cars. This means the trucks have much more momentum in a collision.
- Size – The average 18-wheeler is 70-80 feet long. Their height and width make visibility difficult.
- Stability – These large trucks are prone to rollover accidents because of their high center of gravity.
- Driver Fatigue – Truckers operate on tight delivery schedules, leading to driver fatigue. Drowsy driving amplifies accident risks.
- Equipment Failure – Semi-trucks have complex mechanical systems. Defective brakes, tires, or other parts can lead to wrecks.
- Hazardous Cargo – Some 18-wheelers transport flammable chemicals, explosives, or other dangerous materials, raising the stakes in a crash.
These factors, combined with the sheer speed and weight of a loaded tractor trailer, are why accidents with 18-wheelers often lead to catastrophic injuries like brain trauma, spinal cord damage, amputations, severe burns, orthopedic injuries, and even wrongful death.
Taking Action After an 18-Wheeler Accident
If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident, you’ll need to take certain steps while still at the scene:
- Assess Injuries – Seek medical attention, even for minor cuts and bruises. Adrenaline can mask serious harm.
- Document Evidence – Take photos of property damage, skid marks, debris, injuries, and traffic signs if safe to do so.
- Get Witness Info – Record the names and contact details of any witnesses to the crash. Their accounts can support your claim.
- Call the Police – Alert law enforcement to create an official accident report. Be sure to get a copy of the report.
- Notify Your Insurer – Inform your insurance provider about the collision and start a claim if needed.
- Consult a Lawyer – Contact a truck accident attorney as soon as possible after the crash for a free consultation.
While needing to handle all those steps, the physical, mental and emotional trauma of a serious truck wreck can feel overwhelming. An experienced attorney at Karns & Karns Truck Accident Attorneys can take care of accident response procedures for you while you focus on recovering from injuries.
Why Hire a Truck Accident Law Firm?
Handling the legal aftermath of an 18-wheeler collision requires extensive resources and expertise. Truck accident law firms have the skills and knowledge to build a strong injury claim or wrongful death case on your behalf. Here are some key reasons to have a specialized attorney like Karns & Karns represent you:
- Navigate Complex Laws – Specialized federal and state laws regulate the trucking industry. An attorney well-versed in these rules can best protect your rights.
- Handle Insurance Negotiations – Tractor trailer policies involve high liability limits and multiple insurers. Lawyers can handle these complex negotiations.
- Investigate Accident Causes – Attorneys have access to crash reconstruction experts, engineers, and other specialists to identify factors like truck defects or driver errors.
- Calculate Case Value – Experienced truck accident lawyers have handled many similar cases. They can accurately assess the potential value of your claim.
- Level the Playing Field – Powerful trucking companies and insurers have vast resources. Knowledgeable attorneys help level the playing field.
- Avoid Delays – The statute of limitations for injury claims is usually 1-3 years. Law firms promptly file cases to avoid missing deadlines.
- Reduce Stress – A qualified law firm handles all legal matters so you can concentrate on your health.
One key benefit of hiring a truck accident law firm is they typically work on a contingency fee basis. This means no payment is required upfront. The attorneys receive an agreed upon percentage of any settlement or court award.
Choosing the Right Truck Accident Law Firm
Not all attorneys have in-depth knowledge of truck accident cases. When searching for representation after an 18-wheeler collision, look for a firm with specific experience in this field, such as Karns & Karns Truck Accident Attorneys. Warning signs of an inexperienced lawyer include:
- No proven track record with large trucking cases
- Focus on quick, low-value settlements
- Lack of resources to fully investigate the accident
- Failure to explain legal options and case prospects
- Reluctance to take a case to trial if needed
- Lack of empathy and caring for the client
An accomplished truck accident firm will have a record of delivering maximum compensation for clients. They understand how to prove liability, calculate life-long damages, and tenaciously negotiate with insurers. Their attorneys provide personalized counsel and legal support throughout the case.
Why Choose Karns & Karns?
With a proven history of success with truck accident claims, Karns & Karns has the skills and dedication to help you recover damages after an 18-wheeler collision. Key benefits of choosing Karns & Karns include:
- Years of truck accident experience
- Record of maximizing case compensation
- National reputation as leaders in the field
- Comprehensive legal resources and experts
- Caring team dedicated to each client
- No-cost, no-obligation case evaluations
- Contingency-based fees
The award-winning attorneys at Karns & Karns know how traumatic it is to suffer major injuries from a trucking accident. They make it their mission to ease that burden by providing determined legal representation focused on you and your needs.
Take Action Today
Don’t try to handle an 18-wheeler accident claim alone. The experienced team at Karns & Karns Truck Accident Attorneys is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and legal options. We are ready to answer your questions, investigate your accident, and fight to get you maximum compensation. Call 800-4THE-WIN (800-484-3946) now to schedule a free case review.
