18-Wheeler Accidents in Las Vegas, Nevada
18-wheeler truck accidents
If you got injured in an accident involving an 18-wheeler truck in Las Vegas or Nevada, call us at 702-432-1000 to discuss your case.
We don't charge for consultations.
What is an 18-wheeler truck?
An 18-wheeler truck is a large freight-carrying vehicle commonly used in transportation. These trucks typically have a tractor unit (front part) with two axles and 10 wheels, and they pull a trailer with two axles and another 8 wheels.
How are the 18-wheeler trucks used?
In the US, 18-wheeler trucks are indispensable for long-distance transportation of goods across state lines, serving as a backbone of the logistics and supply chain industry. These massive vehicles haul containers between ports, rail yards, and distribution centers, facilitating efficient movement of products nationwide. Freight companies rely on 18-wheelers to transport bulk goods, including liquids, grains, and raw materials. Specialized trailers, such as tanker trailers, are designed for liquids, while others are equipped to handle bulk solids. The large number of wheels on 18-wheelers helps distribute the weight of the cargo, allowing for the transportation of heavy loads.
Where do 18-wheeler accidents happen?
Highways and interstates: Due to the long distances traveled by 18-wheelers, highways and interstates are common locations for accidents. High speeds, frequent lane changes, and varying road conditions contribute to the risk.
Constrictions zones: Construction zones can be very hazardous. Reduced speed limits, lane closures, and changes in traffic patterns increase the likelihood of accidents in the construction zone.
Parking lots: Maneuvering large trucks in parking lots can be challenging, and accidents may occur while parking or navigating tight spaces.
Urban areas: Busy city streets with congested traffic, intersections, frequent stops and starts, and proximity to other vehicles and pedestrians increase the risk of accidents in urban areas.
Steep grades and descents: Mountainous terrain with steep grades can be challenging for 18-wheelers, especially during descents. Brake failures or difficulty maintaining control on downhill slopes can result in accidents.
Why do 18-wheeler accidents happen in Nevada?
Common causes of 18-wheeler accidents include:
Driver fatigue: Tired or drowsy drivers are more prone to making mistakes and poor decisions.
Distracted driving: Distractions (talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, texting, or using navigation systems) can divert a driver's attention from the road, increasing the risk of accidents.
Speeding: Excessive speed reduces the driver's reaction time and increases the severity of accidents. 18-wheeler trucks have longer stopping distances than smaller vehicles, making it crucial for drivers to maintain appropriate speeds.
Poor weather conditions: Adverse weather conditions can decrease visibility, contributing to accidents.
Improper loading or cargo securement: Incorrectly loaded or unsecured cargo can shift during transit, affecting the balance and stability of the truck. This can lead to accidents, especially during sudden maneuvers or stops.
Mechanical failures: Mechanical issues with the truck or its components, such as brakes, tires, or steering systems, can result in accidents.
Inexperienced or inadequately trained drivers: Lack of experience or training may lead to better decision-making and handling of the truck, increasing the risk of accidents.
Who is liable for an 18-wheeler accident?
Determining liability depends on the incident's specific circumstances. Multiple parties may share liability and could include:
Truck driver: If the truck driver's actions, such as negligence, distraction, impairment, or violation of traffic laws, contributed to the accident, the truck driver may be liable.
Trucking company: The owner or operator of the truck may be held liable for the actions of its employees (the truck drivers). This includes issues related to hiring, training, supervision, and maintenance of the vehicles.
Vehicle maintenance providers: If mechanical failure causes an accident, the party responsible for the truck (the trucking company or a third-party maintenance provider) could be held liable.
Cargo loading and shipping companies: If the accident was caused by improperly loaded or unsecured cargo, the companies that loaded and secured the cargo may be held liable.
Manufacturers of defective parts: If defective parts, such as faulty brakes or tires, caused an accident, the manufacturer may be liable.
Government entities: Government entities responsible for road maintenance and safety may sometimes be held liable.
Other drivers: If the actions of another driver on the road contributed to the accident, that driver could be held liable.
In many cases, multiple parties share responsibility for the accident.
If you're involved in or affected by an 18-wheeler accident, call us at 702-432-1000 to discuss your case. We don't charge for consultations.
18-wheeler accident settlements in Las Vegas
The settlement amount will be influenced by:
- the specific circumstances of the 18 wheeler accident,
- the extent of the victim injuries and
- the related damages.
If you want to know what settlement to expect in your case, call us to speak with a personal injury attorney.
What to do if you get injured
If you are the pedestrian injured in an accident involving an 18-wheeler truck, first and foremost, seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor.
Then:
• Report the accident to the police.
• Collect information from the scene (the truck driver's contact and insurance information, the truck's license plate number, and any eyewitness accounts.)
• Don't admit fault, and don't apologize. Let the authorities and insurance investigators determine liability based on the evidence.
• Preserve any evidence of the accident, such as clothing worn during the incident, photos of injuries, and any damaged personal belongings.
• Keep detailed records of doctor visits, surgeries, therapy sessions, and prescribed medications.
Challenges of 18-wheeler accident lawsuits
18-wheeler accident lawsuits can be complex. Common challenges include:
• Multiple parties involved: 18-wheeler accidents often involve numerous parties. Determining the extent of each party's liability can be challenging.
• Insurance company involvement: Trucking companies typically have powerful insurance companies with legal teams experienced in handling accident claims. These insurers may try to minimize payouts or shift blame, making it challenging for victims to receive fair compensation.
• Federal regulations and compliance: The trucking industry is subject to numerous federal regulations. Ensuring that all relevant rules were followed and gathering evidence of violations can be complex but crucial for building a solid case.
• Evidence collection: Gathering evidence (e.g., accident reports, eyewitness statements, surveillance footage, and data from the truck's black box (Electronic Control Module or ECM)) can be challenging.
We can help
Call us at 702-432-1000 to discuss your accident involving the 18-wheeler truck.
Your consultation will be informative and free.
We work on a contingency basis. If we cannot settle your case or win at trial, we don't get paid, and you don't owe us anything.
We serve clients in Las Vegas and Nevada.
Last updated on July 12, 2024.
