Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Commercial vehicle accidents can have many causes, most of which can have serious consequences for all parties involved. Some of these include:
- Truck driver error: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has found through recent studies that drivers of large trucks are 10 times more likely to be the cause of trucking accidents than other factors such as weather and road conditions. In many cases, unreasonable expectations from trucking companies and the incentive to deliver loads quickly are key factors in accidents involving driver negligence.
- Impairment: Unfortunately, alcohol is not the only way a truck driver can be impaired while on the road. Over-the-counter drugs and prescription medications are one of the main causes of impairment among truck drivers. These are often used in excess to try and keep drivers awake during their long driving shifts. In fact, a federal study of large truck crashes over a three-year period suggested alcohol, prescription medications and over-the-counter medicine may have contributed to as many as 29,000 large vehicle accidents.
- Poorly maintained or faulty equipment: By law, trucks must be inspected regularly and maintained constantly. Issues such as faulty brakes, an unbalanced load or a defect in the steering mechanism can lead to serious accidents. According to the same federal study, brake and tire problems were involved in as many as 49,000 commercial vehicle accidents.
- Speeding: Excessive speed is often a major contributing factor to serious truck accidents. Due to the inherent handling and braking limitations of most trucks, drivers simply do not have the time to react to sudden changes in their driving environment if they are driving too fast for the conditions.
- Fatigue: Many truck drivers spend long periods of time behind the wheel while trying to make cargo and passenger delivery deadlines. In order to keep to strict delivery schedules, they often need to stay awake and focused on driving for many continuous hours without sleep. This can have a serious impact on the reaction times of most drivers.
- Driver Distractions: Adjusting a radio, talking on a cellphone, sending a text message, looking at scenery while driving and other related incidents can take a driver’s attention away from driving just long enough for a driver to lose control of his or her vehicle, especially in bad weather conditions or other hazardous environments.
Truck accidents can often result from several acts of neglect. Victims who are unfamiliar with the commercial transportation industry are unaware of the multi-level process involved in a long-distance truck delivery.
That is why an experienced and well-informed Sacramento truck accident lawyer will work to identify the cause and party that was responsible for your accident.
Call (916) 777-7777 to speak with one of our reputable truck accident attorneys.
Types of Injuries from Commercial Vehicle Crashes
Due to the large size of most trucks, whenever they are involved in an accident, the amount of energy that is exerted at the point of impact can be enormous.
Unfortunately, many victims often do not survive the force of the impact, or if they do, they often sustain serious, life-changing injuries that not only affect themselves, but also the lives of their families and other dependents.
Some common injuries that survivors of truck accidents have been known to receive include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage/paralysis
- Broken bones
- Facial damage
- Lacerations
- Internal injuries
- Whiplash
- Rib and torso bruising
- Mental fatigue
As with many automotive injuries, the associated medical costs can be crushing for the injury victims and those who are involved. Loss of wages, pain and suffering, and mental trauma can also contribute to the amount of losses that victims may encounter, which further exaggerates the problem.
As a law firm that focus our practice on personal injury cases, we have strong ties to Sacramento’s medical community and will be able to connect you with some of the city’s leading health practitioners.
Our office is located four miles from UC Davis Medical Center, which has a level I trauma center that has been verified by the American College of Surgeons.
If the you or your loved one’s injuries require future medical treatment and rehabilitation, our office is also located just three miles from Mercy General Hospital’s rehabilitation center, where victims of major multiple trauma are given professional help to recover from their injuries.
The injuries victims sustain from truck accidents are often serious and require years of treatment and rehabilitation. Filing a claim with our Sacramento truck accident attorneys may provide you with some financial relief for the expenses to undergo these medical procedures.
Fill out a Free Case Evaluation form to leave a detailed description of your claim.
18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Sacramento, CA
Recovering after an 18-wheeler accident can feel daunting, especially when faced with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about your next steps. Arnold Law Firm is dedicated to guiding truck accident victims in Sacramento through these challenging times. As a trusted 18-wheeler accident attorney in Sacramento, CA, we bring years of experience handling complex cases involving 18-wheelers, semi-trucks, and other large commercial vehicles.
Our legal team has a proven track record of securing substantial settlements for clients by addressing the unique challenges that truck accident claims present. From uncovering evidence of negligence to holding trucking companies accountable, we focus on delivering justice and maximum compensation for our clients. We understand the significant impact these accidents have on your life and are committed to providing compassionate, results-driven representation.
At Arnold Law Firm, our priority is to alleviate the stress of the legal process so you can focus on healing. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait to seek help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.
Why Are 18-Wheeler Accidents More Dangerous Than Other Truck Accidents?
The immense size and weight of 18-wheelers make them far more dangerous than other types of truck accidents. These massive vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, which is about 20 times the weight of an average passenger car. This immense mass increases the force of impact in a collision, often leading to catastrophic injuries and extensive damage to both vehicles involved, and even surrounding cars. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), there were over 4,000 fatalities in crashes involving large trucks in the U.S. in 2021 alone, with many of these caused by 18-wheelers.
Unlike smaller vehicles, 18-wheelers require much longer stopping distances. At highway speeds, it can take an 18-wheeler over 500 feet to come to a complete stop, depending on road conditions and the load it’s carrying. This makes it difficult for truck drivers to avoid accidents, especially in emergency situations where sudden braking is necessary. Their limited maneuverability also increases the risk of rollovers and jackknife accidents, which are highly dangerous for both the truck driver and other road users.
Additionally, 18-wheelers have large blind spots, especially on their right side and directly behind the vehicle. When a driver cannot see other vehicles in these zones, it increases the likelihood of unsafe lane changes and collisions. Mechanical failures, such as tire blowouts or brake malfunctions, can also contribute to serious accidents. Moreover, accidents involving hazardous materials or spills from the truck’s cargo can escalate the danger significantly.
These factors make 18-wheeler accidents particularly deadly, especially in high-traffic areas where multiple vehicles are involved. The severity of the injuries and damages often requires significant legal expertise to navigate. An experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyer in Sacramento, CA, from Arnold Law Firm can help you understand your rights, pursue compensation, and manage the complexities of filing a claim in these high-stakes cases.
What Compensation Can You Receive After an 18-Wheeler Accident?
If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident, the resulting damages can be overwhelming, but you may be entitled to compensation for various losses. Victims often face extensive medical expenses, including emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, and long-term rehabilitation. Compensation may also cover future medical needs, such as ongoing therapy or specialized treatments.
In addition to medical costs, victims can seek reimbursement for lost wages and diminished earning capacity, especially if injuries prevent them from returning to work or limit their ability to perform previous job duties. Property damage, such as repair or replacement costs for your vehicle, is another common area of compensation.
Non-economic damages like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are also significant components of claims. These damages address the physical and emotional toll accidents take on victims and their families.
Navigating the truck accident settlement process can be complex, which is why hiring an experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyer in Sacramento, CA, is crucial. At Arnold Law Firm, we understand the challenges victims face and work tirelessly to secure maximum compensation for truck accident injuries.
If you’re searching for a big rig accident attorney near you, or need help with filing an 18-wheeler accident claim, our team is here to provide support every step of the way.
What Is the Average Settlement for an 18-Wheeler Accident?
The amount you can receive from an 18-wheeler accident settlement can vary significantly, ranging from a few thousand dollars to millions of dollars. Several key factors play a crucial role in determining the final settlement amount, depending on the specific circumstances of your case.
- Severity of Injuries and Long-Term Care Needs: The severity of your injuries is one of the most significant factors in determining settlement value. Victims who suffer catastrophic injuries, such as spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or amputations, often require long-term care and rehabilitation. This ongoing need for medical attention can increase the settlement amount, as it must account for both past and future medical expenses. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), serious injuries resulting from truck accidents often lead to larger settlements due to the substantial costs associated with care and rehabilitation.
- Degree of Liability and Fault: The extent to which the trucking company, truck driver, or other parties are at fault plays a major role in determining compensation. If there is clear evidence of negligence, such as violations of federal hours-of-service regulations, improper maintenance, or unsafe driving practices, the liable party may be required to pay more in damages. A skilled 18-wheeler accident attorney in Sacramento, CA, can help prove negligence and ensure you are compensated fairly for the harm you have suffered.
- Insurance Policy Limits: Trucking companies typically carry significant insurance policies to cover accidents involving their vehicles. The size of these insurance policies can significantly influence your settlement. However, larger insurance policies do not always guarantee a larger payout. The strength of the case, such as the evidence supporting your claim and the quality of legal representation, can play a more critical role in securing a higher settlement.
- Strength of Evidence and Quality of Legal Representation: The more compelling the evidence you present, such as truck driver logs, black box data, accident scene photos, and expert testimony, the stronger your case will be. This is why hiring a skilled 18-wheeler accident lawyer in Sacramento, CA is essential. At Arnold Law Firm, we work tirelessly to collect and preserve evidence that can help maximize your settlement. Our experienced attorneys have a proven track record of negotiating and litigating cases to secure the best possible outcome for our clients.
The truck accident settlement process can be complex, but with the right legal representation, you can navigate it confidently and ensure the compensation you deserve for truck accident injuries. If you are searching for a Big rig accident attorney near me or a semi-truck accident law firm in Sacramento, Arnold Law Firm is here to help.
How Do 18-Wheeler Accident Claims Work in Sacramento?
Filing an 18-wheeler accident claim in Sacramento involves a detailed and multi-step process. Each phase is critical to securing the compensation you deserve. Here’s an overview of the typical steps involved:
- Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation: The first step is to meet with an experienced 18-wheeler accident attorney in Sacramento, CA, who will review the details of your case. During this consultation, we assess the facts, explain your legal options, and help you understand the potential outcomes. Our goal is to ensure you are fully informed before moving forward with your claim.
- Investigation: A thorough investigation is key to building a strong case. This includes collecting crucial evidence such as truck driver logs, black box data, and witness statements. Additionally, we may examine vehicle maintenance records and other documents to establish liability. This thorough investigation lays the foundation for a successful truck accident settlement process.
- Filing a Personal Injury Claim: Once the evidence is gathered, we file a personal injury claim against the trucking company, the driver, or other responsible parties. Whether it’s a semi-truck accident law firm in Sacramento or a big rig accident attorney near me, filing the claim properly is essential to ensuring you are compensated for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
- Negotiation or Trial: After filing the claim, we move into the negotiation phase, where we advocate on your behalf to reach a fair settlement. If an agreement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take the case to trial. A skilled 18-wheeler accident lawyer in Sacramento, CA, can negotiate effectively to ensure you receive the maximum compensation for truck accident injuries.
What Evidence Is Important in 18-Wheeler Accident Cases?
In any 18-wheeler accident case, gathering and preserving strong evidence is vital to securing the compensation you deserve. At Arnold Law Firm, we understand the critical role evidence plays in ensuring a successful claim. Here are the key types of evidence we rely on to strengthen your case:
- Accident Scene Photos and Videos: These are essential for documenting the accident’s aftermath. Photos and videos help capture vehicle positions, damage to property, skid marks, road conditions, and other important details that can provide insight into the cause of the crash.
- Police and Accident Reports: These official documents often provide crucial details about the crash, including the responding officer’s observations and any citations or violations issued at the scene. This documentation serves as an authoritative record that can support your claim.
- Truck Driver Logs and Black Box Data: Logs detailing the driver’s hours of service and black box data, which records vehicle speed and braking patterns, are pivotal in determining if the truck driver violated regulations, such as driving while fatigued. These records can reveal critical information about the driver’s actions leading up to the crash.
- Maintenance Records: The condition of the truck and whether it had been properly maintained are key to understanding the cause of the accident. Maintenance records can uncover safety violations, such as failed inspections or neglected repairs, that may have contributed to the crash.
- Expert Testimony: Professional accident reconstruction specialists and medical experts play an essential role in interpreting complex data, such as vehicle dynamics and the long-term impact of injuries. Their insights can help demonstrate liability and the full extent of the damage caused.
As a skilled 18-wheeler accident attorney in Sacramento, CA, we at Arnold Law Firm meticulously gather and preserve this critical evidence to build a strong case on your behalf. Whether you’re filing an 18-wheeler accident claim or seeking compensation for truck accident injuries, our team ensures that every detail is handled efficiently to give you the best chance at a favorable settlement. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your claim.
How Long Does It Take to Resolve an 18-Wheeler Lawsuit?
The timeline for resolving an 18-wheeler lawsuit can vary significantly based on several key factors. As experienced 18-wheeler accident attorneys in Sacramento, CA, we understand how these elements can impact the speed at which your case is resolved. Here are the primary factors that influence settlement timelines:
- Case Complexity: If the accident resulted in severe injuries or if there is a dispute over liability, the process can take longer. Complex cases often require thorough investigations and more time to gather all necessary evidence.
- Number of Liable Parties: When multiple parties are involved, such as the truck driver, trucking company, and equipment manufacturers, the case becomes more intricate. Each defendant may have their own legal team and insurance company, which can lengthen the negotiation process.
- Insurance Company Cooperation: Insurance companies often seek to minimize payouts, which can result in delays. If the insurer is resistant to offering a fair settlement, the case may take longer to resolve as your 18-wheeler accident lawyer in Sacramento, CA fights for your rightful compensation.
- Expert Testimony and Accident Reconstruction Reports: In many cases, expert testimony is crucial in proving fault and assessing the full extent of damages. Experts such as accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals may need time to provide reports that strengthen your case.
While some truck accident settlement processes can be resolved in just a few months, more complex cases may take a year or longer, especially if they go to trial. At Arnold Law Firm, we are committed to moving your case forward as efficiently as possible while ensuring every detail is handled with care. If you’re filing an 18-wheeler accident claim, our team works tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve, no matter how long the process takes.
If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident, don’t navigate the legal complexities alone. Arnold Law Firm is here to help you understand your rights, build a strong case, and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced truck accident attorney.
Sacramento Big Rig Accident Lawyer
A fully loaded big rig can weigh more than 15 times as much as a typical car. The average weight of a passenger vehicle is about 2.5 tons, while a semi with a full trailer can legally weigh up to 40 tons.
The stark weight disparity between a commercial tractor-trailer and a passenger vehicle can cause complex accidents involving multiple victims and resulting in fatalities and/or serious injury. Victims of an at-fault truck driver or trucking company can face enormous medical bills, an extended recovery period, and even drastic life changes.
The massive weight of a tractor-trailer also requires more time to stop than a passenger vehicle. If a vehicle and a big rig are both driving at 40 mph and start braking at the same moment, the tractor-trailer will travel about 45 feet further before coming to a complete stop.
Increased Risk and Trucking Industry Trends
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), large trucks are more likely to cause fatal multiple-vehicle crashes. Reflecting this increased risk, trucks that haul freight must carry insurance coverage based on the weight of the truck and the hazards of the material being hauled.
In 2018, 82 percent of fatal crashes involving large trucks were multiple-vehicle crashes, compared with 62 percent for fatal crashes involving passenger vehicles. Statistics for the same year showed a three percent increase in fatalities from truck accidents.
As an emergency response to the global pandemic, the State of California issued truck overweight permits for transporting essential goods. This permit allows up to a maximum of 88,000 pounds gross vehicle weight, instead of the usual 80,000-pound limit.
Americans for Safe and Efficient Transportation, a coalition representing truck companies and freight shippers, is pushing for a national increase of truck weight limits. The group advocates raising the current maximum to 97,000 pounds, spread over six axles.
Common Causes of Big Rig Collisions
Multiple factors can contribute to a collision involving a big rig, including vehicle failure, overcompensating while steering, tailgating, and driver fatigue. According to an FMCSA crash causation study:
- 27 percent of trucks were found to have brake problems
- 19 percent of drivers were unfamiliar with the route
- Speeding was the most frequently reported factor in driver-related fatalities
- Distraction or inattention was the second most commonly given cause for large truck fatalities
Why Heavier Freight Trucks Increase the Risk of Serious Accidents
The trucking industry transports about 96 percent of commercial goods consumed in the Sacramento region, according to a 2015 Caltrans analysis. According to the American Trucking Association, virtually everything that is consumed or purchased travels by truck at some point on its journey to the consumer. Trucks not only serve as a primary method of transportation but also as a key link for rail and water shipments.
The nation’s freight transportation industry is expected to increase over the next 30 years. The demand for cheap products and a national “just-in-time” delivery network has placed trucking companies under pressure to move heavier and heavier loads.
While half of the large freight trucks operate within just 50 miles of their origination, trucks used for long-distance freight movement usually haul multiple trailers, are heavier, and drive five times more miles per year than single-unit trucks. When these massive vehicles are involved in crashes, the consequences for drivers and passengers in smaller cars can be devastating.
COVID-19 Trucking Issues
Due to reduced traffic congestion on roadways from shelter-in-place orders, freight trucks have been traveling faster. Increased vehicle speed is playing a bigger role in the crashes that are taking place.
In response to freight demands due to the global pandemic, the FMCSA suspended some longstanding restrictions on work hours. Truckers moving essential goods, such as health care supplies and food supplies, are no longer are prohibited from working more than 70 hours in an eight-day period and are not required to take a 30-minute break, every eight hours. Independent truckers are calling for full deregulation of all shipments, not just commodities deemed essential, to eliminate confusion.
Amid concerns about the spread of COVID-19, truckers are also facing long hauls with few available bathrooms, limited access to food, and a lack of places to park when tired, since many rest areas have been closed. Fatigued drivers are at a higher risk of causing a collision.
