Accidents Unique to 18-Wheeler Crashes
Accidents involving 18-wheelers are far more complex and devastating than typical car crashes. These massive vehicles, also known as big rigs, semi-trucks, or tractor-trailers, can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. Due to their size, weight, and specialized operation, 18-wheeler accidents often involve unique factors that don’t apply to regular motor vehicle collisions. For victims in Texas, understanding these distinct dangers is crucial to protecting their rights and seeking fair compensation.
Learn more below about accidents unique to 18-wheeler crashes. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a collision with a big rig in Texas, contact McLemore, Reddell, & Story, P.L.L.C., to speak with a skilled and experienced Houston truck accident lawyer.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents
While many of the same factors that cause regular car accidents can also apply to 18-wheelers, these large commercial trucks present additional hazards, including:
- Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often spend long hours on the road, sometimes pushing beyond legal limits to meet delivery deadlines. Fatigue reduces reaction time and impairs decision-making, leading to serious accidents.
- Improper Loading: If a truck’s cargo is improperly loaded or secured, it can shift during transit, causing the driver to lose control or the truck to tip over.
- Equipment Failure: Due to the heavy usage of 18-wheelers, parts such as brakes, tires, and lights can fail if not properly maintained, increasing the risk of catastrophic accidents.
- Blind Spots: 18-wheelers have large blind spots, also known as "no-zones," around the front, back, and sides of the vehicle. Cars in these zones are at a higher risk of being involved in a collision when a truck driver executes an unsafe lane change.
Types of Accidents Unique to 18-Wheelers
Some crashes are unique to large trucks due to their size, design, and mechanics. These accidents often result in severe injuries and require specialized legal knowledge to address liability effectively.
- Jackknife Accidents
- A jackknife occurs when the trailer of the truck swings out to form an acute or 90-degree angle with the cab, often caused by incorrect braking methods or sudden braking on slippery roads. This type of crash can block multiple lanes of traffic and lead to multi-vehicle pileups.
- Underride Accidents
- These tragic accidents happen when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the rear or side of an 18-wheeler, often resulting in fatal injuries. Underride guards are designed to prevent this, but not all trucks are properly equipped or maintained with effective guards.
- Rollover Accidents
- Given their high center of gravity, 18-wheelers are more prone to rollovers, especially during sharp turns, sudden maneuvers, or when overloaded.
- Tire Blowouts
- A sudden tire blowout can cause a driver to lose control of the truck, sending debris across the roadway and endangering nearby drivers.
- Lost Load Accidents
- When cargo isn’t secured correctly, it can fall onto the roadway, creating hazards for other vehicles and sometimes causing chain-reaction crashes.
Injuries Associated with 18-Wheeler Crashes
Given the size and force of an 18-wheeler, accidents can cause severe, life-altering injuries. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis
- Severe burns from fires or chemical spills
- Broken bones and crush injuries
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
These injuries often result in extensive medical treatment, lost income, and long-term rehabilitation, making it vital for victims to seek the help of an experienced lawyer to recover full compensation.
How McLemore, Reddell, & Story, P.L.L.C. Can Help
If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Texas, the legal challenges can be overwhelming. These cases often involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, and vehicle manufacturers. At McLemore, Reddell, & Story, P.L.L.C., we have the experience and resources needed to investigate complex truck accidents, determine liability, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Our team understands the unique dangers of 18-wheeler crashes and is committed to helping injury victims navigate the legal system. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you pursue justice.
