Columbia 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer
Large trucks like 18 wheelers are a common sight in and around Columbia. These rigs are also called tractor-trailers or semi-trucks. They haul freight around the country and deliver all sorts of consumer goods to grocery stores and other retailers in Columbia. Any collision with an 18 wheeler is a dramatic event, and victims usually come away with horrifying injuries. Call The Stanley Law Group today to discuss your capacity to file a lawsuit. A Columbia 18 wheeler accident lawyer at our firm can delve into the facts of your case. Below, we identify basic information you need to know about these wrecks.
How to Win an Accident Claim
Anyone struck by an 18 wheeler will probably suffer significant car damage. These trucks often weigh up to 40 tons when fully loaded, which will easily destroy a smaller, lighter vehicle. Occupants will probably suffer long-lasting, painful injuries, including:
- Fractures
- Chest injuries
- Neck injuries
- Brain injuries
- Whiplash
- Paralysis
- Crush injuries
To succeed on a personal injury claim, we’ll need to prove fault for the accident. Essentially, that means identifying why the accident happened and who is to blame. Many big rigs crash due to trucker error, including:
- Driving while fatigued
- Intoxication or other drug impairment
- Confusion or distraction, including cell phone use
- Speeding
- Following too closely
- Backing up without mirrors
- Illegal lane changes
We rely on all sorts of evidence, including your memories of the wreck. Unfortunately, many victims are so shaken up they don’t really remember what happened. They wake up in the hospital in excruciating pain, but their memories are blank.
We can put on our investigator’s hat to uncover useful evidence, including evidence from the truck. Many 18 wheelers have so-called “black boxes” which contain data, such as how long the truck was in motion. This evidence might prove the trucker was driving well past the allowable limit.
We might also inspect the truck to find a defect. Various problems with brakes or steering systems can lead to an accident. Defective tires might also explode, rendering the truck hard to control. When a defect contributes to an accident, the following might be to blame:
- Trucking company for failing to perform necessary maintenance on the vehicle;
- Mechanics for performing substandard repairs or for failing to identify a problem with the truck;
- Truck manufacturers for selling a defective truck to consumers.
As you can see, 18 wheeler accidents are complicated. The facts matter and will determine who you can sue and what compensation you can receive. Let us pull together all the necessary information to make your case.
Talk to an Experienced Lawyer Today
The Stanley Law Group has effectively obtained financial compensation for accident victims and their families to cover medical expenses, car damage, and lost wages. We also fight to obtain the most money possible for your pain and inconvenience. Big trucks often leave our clients with permanent disabilities, so we also seek compensation for ongoing expenses.
Contact us today to get started with a consultation with a Columbia 18 wheeler accident lawyer at our firm.
