Thousands of 18-wheelers barrel down Texas highways daily, hauling goods and keeping the economy moving. But when things go wrong, the consequences can be catastrophic. A momentary lapse in judgment, a poorly maintained truck, or a reckless decision can turn these massive vehicles into unstoppable forces of destruction.
What causes these devastating accidents? Whether you’re a cautious driver wanting to stay safe or looking for answers after a crash, understanding the common causes of 18-wheeler accidents can make all the difference.
At Daws Legal, PLLC, we know how devastating a trucking accident can impact your life. We’ve seen firsthand how quickly medical bills pile up and how insurance companies often fight to avoid paying fair compensation. That’s why we’re here—to fight for your rights and help you get back on your feet.
If you or a loved one has been affected by an 18-wheeler accident, don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Contact us for a free consultation today, and let us fight to get you the justice and compensation you deserve.
Keep reading to learn about the common causes of 18-wheeler accidents, what to do after an 18-wheeler accident, and average 18-wheeler accident settlement values.
What Are the Most Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents?
18-wheeler accidents can happen for various reasons, often involving multiple contributing factors.
Driver Fatigue
Trucking companies often pressure drivers to meet tight delivery schedules, leading to long hours behind the wheel with minimal rest. Fatigue severely impairs reaction time, judgment, and concentration, increasing the risk of accidents.
Despite federal regulations limiting driving hours, drivers sometimes exceed this limit to meet deadlines. Trucking companies may even encourage this behavior to maximize productivity.
At Daws Legal, we know how to investigate driver logs, GPS data, and other critical evidence to prove negligence in fatigue-related accidents and hold trucking companies accountable for unsafe practices.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving includes texting, using in-cab communication devices, adjusting the radio, and eating behind the wheel. Trucking companies often equip vehicles with communication systems intended to improve productivity. However, when misused, these devices become dangerous distractions. A momentary lapse in attention can have catastrophic consequences.
Daws Legal has extensive experience securing electronic communication records and in-cab video footage to build a strong case against distracted drivers.
Speeding
Speeding increases the risk and severity of accidents, especially for 18-wheelers that require longer stopping distances. At Daws Legal, we investigate these accidents by analyzing electronic logging devices (ELDs) and event data recorders (EDRs), which capture speed and braking patterns before collisions.
Improper Loading and Cargo Shifting
Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can shift during transit, causing a truck to tip over, jackknife, or spill debris onto the road. Proving improper loading requires thoroughly investigating shipping records, loading protocols, and inspection reports. At Daws Legal, we analyze these details to identify all responsible parties and maximize your compensation.
Mechanical Failures and Poor Maintenance
Brake failures, tire blowouts, and steering malfunctions are common mechanical issues that can lead to devastating accidents. 18-wheelers require regular maintenance and detailed inspection records. However, sometimes, companies neglect necessary repairs to cut costs, and unstable 18-wheelers are left on the roads.
We will examine maintenance logs, repair records, and inspection reports to identify mechanical failures and hold negligent companies accountable.
Driving Under the Influence
Drunk or drug-impaired driving diminishes judgment and coordination, which can affect a driver’s ability to react to road changes timely. The sheer size and weight of an 18-wheeler make even minor mistakes deadly. When a truck driver is under the influence, they put everyone on the road at risk. Daws Legal works with toxicology experts to analyze test results and establish liability against impaired drivers and their employers.
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident
An accident with an 18-wheeler can be overwhelming, leaving you shaken and unsure of your next steps. However, what you do immediately following the crash can significantly impact your health, safety, and ability to pursue a legal claim. Here are the crucial steps to take after an 18-wheeler accident:
- Ensure Safety. Your safety and well-being should always be the top priority. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic to prevent further injuries.
- Call law enforcement and report the accident. Contact emergency services as soon as you can. The responding officer will create an accident report, which will be essential for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
- Seek medical attention. Prompt medical evaluation helps ensure your health and safety and provides valuable evidence that can strengthen your personal injury claim.
- Gather evidence. If you can do so safely, gather as much evidence as possible at the accident scene, including photos, contact information, vehicle details, and the location of any video surveillance.
- Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters. Insurance companies representing the trucking company may reach out to you. Their primary goal is to minimize payouts, so be cautious when talking to them and avoid making statements without a lawyer.
- Consult with an experienced attorney. 18-wheeler accidents often involve complex legal issues. Therefore, working with an attorney experienced in handling trucking accident claims is crucial.
At Daws Legal, we have extensive experience fighting for the rights of accident victims. We thoroughly investigate the accident while you focus on your recovery.
What Is the Average Settlement for an 18-Wheeler Accident?
The average settlement for an 18-wheeler accident can vary widely depending on factors unique to each case. Several key factors impact the potential settlement value, such as:
- Severity of injuries,
- Medical expenses,
- Lost wages and earning capacity,
- Pain and suffering,
- Degree of fault, and
- Strength and availability of the evidence.
Trucking companies and insurers aggressively defend these claims, often using tactics to minimize or eliminate payouts. At Daws Legal, we fight to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.
Contact Daws Legal for a Free Case Evaluation
An 18-wheeler accident can be life-changing, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Daws Legal, we provide personalized, compassionate representation tailored to maximize your recovery. Led by Judson Daws, a board-certified attorney in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, we have a proven track record of fighting insurance giants and winning for our clients. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay unless we recover your compensation.
Don’t face the aftermath of an 18-wheeler accident alone. Contact Daws Legal today for a free consultation, and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.