How Long Does an 18-Wheeler Accident Claim Take?

The time it takes to resolve an 18-wheeler accident claim can vary widely depending on several factors. While some cases might be resolved relatively quickly, others can take months or even years to reach a resolution.

Here are some factors that can influence the timeline of resolving an 18-wheeler accident claim:

1. Severity of Injuries: Cases involving serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation tend to take longer to resolve. This is because it’s important to fully understand the extent of the injuries and their long-term effects before reaching a settlement.
2. Complexity of Liability: If there are disputes over who was at fault for the accident or if multiple parties share liability (such as the truck driver, trucking company, and other involved vehicles), it can prolong the resolution process.
3. Investigation: A thorough investigation is necessary to gather evidence, examine accident reports, analyze black box data, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the accident. This process can take time, especially if there are challenges in obtaining evidence.
4. Negotiations: Negotiating a fair settlement between the parties involved can be a time-consuming process. Both sides may need to engage in negotiations, counteroffers, and discussions to reach an agreement.
5. Insurance Companies: Insurance companies representing the trucking company or other involved parties might delay the process by disputing 18-wheeler accident claims, offering low settlements, or engaging in other tactics.
6. Medical Treatment: The duration of medical treatment and recovery for the injured parties can significantly impact the timeline. It’s important to have a clear understanding of the long-term impact of injuries before settling an 18-wheeler accident claim.
7. Litigation: If the case cannot be resolved through negotiation and requires a lawsuit to be filed, the legal proceedings can add considerable time to the resolution process.
8. Court Schedule: The court’s schedule and the backlog of cases can affect the timing of legal proceedings if the case goes to court.
9. Settlement Offers: The speed at which settlement offers are made and accepted can impact the timeline. Sometimes, it takes time for parties to evaluate their options and make informed decisions.

Some cases might be settled within a few months, while others may take a year or more, especially if litigation is involved. It’s crucial to work closely with an experienced semi-truck accident personal injury attorney who can guide you through the process, negotiate on your behalf, and ensure that your rights are protected while pursuing maximum compensation.

Typical Injuries in 18-Wheeler Accident Claims

18-wheeler accidents can result in a range of injuries, some of which can be severe and life-altering. The size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and smaller vehicles often contribute to the seriousness of injuries. Common injuries in 18-wheeler accident claims include:

1. Whiplash: Sudden impact can cause the head and neck to jerk forward and backward, leading to whiplash injuries. These can range from mild to severe and may involve muscle strain, ligament damage, and neck pain.
2. Fractures and Broken Bones: The force of impact can result in broken bones, particularly in the limbs, ribs, and pelvis.
3. Spinal Cord Injuries: Severe accidents may lead to spinal cord injuries, which can result in paralysis or other long-term disabilities, depending on the location and severity of the injury.
4. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries, can occur if the head strikes the steering wheel, windshield, or other parts of the vehicle.
5. Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma from an accident can lead to internal injuries, such as damage to organs, internal bleeding, or ruptured blood vessels.
6. Lacerations and Abrasions: Broken glass, sharp metal, and debris can cause cuts, scrapes, and lacerations.
7. Amputations: In severe cases, a limb may be severed during the accident or require surgical amputation due to severe injuries.
8. Burns: If the accident leads to fires or explosions, burns can result from contact with flames, hot surfaces, or chemicals.
9. Crush Injuries: Being trapped inside a vehicle or pinned between vehicles can cause crush injuries, which may lead to severe tissue damage and long-term complications.
   • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Emotional and psychological trauma resulting from the accident can lead to conditions like PTSD, causing anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
   • Joint Injuries: Dislocated joints, torn ligaments, and other joint injuries can result from the impact of a truck accident.
   • Facial Injuries: Injuries to the face, including fractures, lacerations, and damage to the eyes, nose, and mouth, can occur due to the force of impact or contact with objects.
   • Organ Damage: The impact of a collision can cause damage to internal organs, requiring medical intervention and possibly surgery.
   • Death: In the most tragic cases, 18-wheeler accidents can result in fatalities.

It’s important to note that injuries can vary widely depending on factors such as the speed of the vehicles, the angle of impact, the use of seatbelts, and more. If you’re involved in an 18-wheeler truck accident, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial, even if you feel fine initially, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Additionally, consulting with a personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and options for seeking compensation for your injuries and losses.

What Makes an Experienced, Successful 18-Wheel Tractor-Trailer Accident Lawyer?

An experienced 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer possesses a combination of legal knowledge, specialized expertise, and practical skills that make them well-equipped to handle the unique complexities of truck accident cases. When seeking an attorney to represent you in an 18-wheeler accident claim, here are some qualities that indicate their experience in this field:

1. Specialization in 18-wheeler Tractor Trailer Accident Law: Look for a lawyer who specializes in personal injury law with a specific focus on truck accidents. Trucking laws, regulations, and the dynamics of these accidents differ from standard car accidents, and a specialized attorney will have in-depth knowledge of these nuances.
2. Understanding of Trucking Regulations: An experienced attorney should be well-versed in the federal and state regulations that govern the trucking industry, such as hours-of-service rules, weight restrictions, and maintenance requirements.
3. Investigative Skills: Truck accidents often require thorough investigation to determine liability. Experienced lawyers know how to gather and analyze evidence, such as black box data, logbooks, maintenance records, and accident reports for the 18-wheeler accident claim.
4. Accident Reconstruction: They should be capable of working with accident reconstruction experts to recreate the events leading up to the accident. This can help establish fault and strengthen your case.

5. Knowledge of Insurance Practices: Truck accidents often involve multiple parties and complex insurance issues. A skilled lawyer understands how trucking companies and their insurers operate and can effectively negotiate the 18-wheeler accident claim on your behalf.
6. Strong Negotiation Skills: An experienced lawyer knows how to negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement. They can assess the value of your 18-wheeler accident claim and fight for maximum compensation.
7. Trial Experience: While many cases settle out of court, a seasoned truck accident attorney should have trial experience. This demonstrates their willingness and ability to take your 18-wheeler accident claim case to court if necessary.
8. Understanding of Injuries: Truck accidents can result in severe injuries. A knowledgeable lawyer should understand the medical aspects of these injuries to assess damages and work with medical experts accurately on your 18-wheeler accident claim.
9. Reputation and References: Research the lawyer’s reputation in the legal community and among past clients. Positive reviews and recommendations can indicate a track record of success.
   • Client-Centered Approach: An experienced lawyer should prioritize your well-being, keeping you informed about the progress of your case and addressing your concerns.
   • Resources: Handling truck accident cases may require financial resources for investigations, expert witnesses, and other expenses. A reputable attorney should have the resources to properly handle your case.
   • Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential. Look for a lawyer who can explain legal concepts clearly, answer your questions, and keep you informed throughout the process.
   • Empathy and Compassion: Dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident can be emotionally challenging. An experienced lawyer should show empathy and compassion while advocating for your rights.

Positive Evidence for The Injured or Deceased

Accident fault in Texas is determined by calculating the extent of each driver’s responsibility for the accident versus the truck driver’s fault. If it’s determined that the driver of the vehicle struck by the truck is more than 50% responsible for the accident, the truck driver may not be required to pay compensation. However, the truck driver will be found at fault for the incident if the truck driver’s responsibility is found to be more than 50% in the 18-wheeler accident claim.

Get a Texas Attorney Who Specializes in 18-Wheeler Accident Claims!

 When choosing an attorney for your 18-wheeler accident claims, it’s essential to schedule consultations, ask about their experience, and assess whether you feel comfortable working with them. Hiring an experienced Truck Accident lawyer can significantly increase your chances of obtaining the most compensation for your injuries and losses.

Experience in truck accidents in personal injury litigation is a huge advantage in complicated, high-stakes 18-wheeler accident claims.

Get the Best! Call Lindsey McKay at McKay Law, a Personal Injury Law Firm in Texas specializing in 18-wheel accident claims. 

Call now: (903) INJURED / (903) 465-8733 or (903) ABOGADA / (903) 226-4232 – or submit your case for a free case review.