As you deal with the consequences of an 18-wheeler accident in Celina, you’re likely facing a multitude of physical, emotional, and financial challenges. We understand that recovering from such an incident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies and trucking companies that may prioritize their interests over yours.
At The Texas Law Dog, our 18-wheeler accident lawyers in Celina recognize that you need a trusted ally who is well-versed in trucking regulations and accident laws to ensure your rights are protected and your voice is heard. Our experienced Celina truck accident lawyer is committed to providing you with the experience and support you need.
Common Causes of Semi-Truck Crashes in Celina
One common cause of semi-truck crashes is driver fatigue. When truckers don’t get enough rest, they can fall asleep at the wheel or lose focus, leading to accidents. Improper vehicle maintenance is another major contributor to semi-truck crashes.
Failing to check and maintain brakes, tires, and other systems can lead to mechanical failures that cause accidents. Additionally, speeding, reckless driving, and failure to follow traffic laws can also contribute to semi-truck crashes.
If you’ve been involved in an accident with a semi-truck, it’s important to consult with an experienced Celina personal injury lawyer to determine the cause and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Injuries and Damages in 18-Wheeler Accidents
A collision with an 18-wheeler can lead to severe and life-altering injuries, as well as significant property damage. You may suffer from various injury types, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and internal injuries.
These injuries can result in costly medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Additionally, your vehicle may be severely damaged or even totaled, leaving you without transportation. It’s important to conduct a thorough damage evaluation to determine the full extent of your losses.
This includes documenting your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and property damage. By accurately evaluating your damages, you can build a stronger claim and seek the compensation you need. A skilled 18-wheeler accident lawyer in Celina can help you through the claims process and fight for your rights.
Celina 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer Near Me (817) 775-5364
Our 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer in Celina Can Prove Negligence in a Trucking Accident Case
When trying to prove negligence in a trucking accident case, you’ll need to gather evidence. Here’s what to know:
Investigating Crash Scene Evidence
You’ll likely need to act quickly to preserve necessary evidence at the crash scene, as it can be lost, destroyed, or tampered with if not properly documented and collected in a timely manner. A thorough investigation involves crash scene reconstruction, which helps recreate the events leading up to the accident.
This process involves documenting the scene through photographs, videos, and measurements. Your lawyer will work with experts to analyze skid marks, tire tracks, and other physical evidence to determine the sequence of events.
Evidence preservation is imperative, as it can provide important clues about the cause of the accident and help establish liability. By acting quickly, you can guarantee that evidence is preserved and used to build a strong case.
Analyzing Driver Logbook Records
Driver logbooks can provide a treasure trove of information in a trucking accident case, offering valuable insights into the driver’s activities leading up to the crash. As you investigate the logbook records, you’ll want to scrutinize the accuracy of the entries and guarantee the driver complied with federal regulations. Here’s what to check for:
- Accuracy: Check for discrepancies in the recorded hours of service, miles driven, and rest breaks to identify potential falsifications.
- Driver compliance: Verify that the driver adhered to the hours of service rules, including the 11-hour driving limit and 30-minute break requirements.
- Patterns of behavior: Analyze the logbook records to identify patterns of behavior that may indicate negligence, such as consistently driving long hours without adequate rest.
Identifying Violations of Regulations
Identifying violations of regulations is an important step in building a strong case against a negligent trucking company or driver. You’ll need to investigate whether the trucking company or driver failed to comply with regulatory standards, such as those set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
This may involve reviewing documentation, such as maintenance records, driver logs, and safety inspection reports, to identify any discrepancies or red flags.
What to Expect From the Insurance Company in Celina
When you file a claim with the insurance company, you can expect them to make an initial lowball offer, which is often considerably lower than what you need.
Initial Lowball Offers
After an 18-wheeler accident, you’ll likely be contacted by the insurance company representing the at-fault party, and they’ll probably make you an initial offer to settle your claim. Here are three things to keep in mind when dealing with initial lowball offers:
- Don’t rush to accept: Take time to evaluate the offer and consult with an 18-wheeler accident lawyer.
- Know your worth: Calculate your losses, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, to determine a fair settlement amount.
- Develop a negotiation strategy: Work with your lawyer to craft a counteroffer and negotiate a better settlement.
Our founding attorney previously owned insurance agencies, so our team has the necessary knowledge to better defend against insurance tactics.
Delaying Tactics Used
Insurance companies often employ delaying tactics to minimize payouts or avoid liability altogether. You may encounter these tactics during the negotiation process. One common delaying tactic is requesting excessive documentation or evidence, which can prolong the negotiation process.
Another tactic is stalling or ignoring your communications, forcing you to wait for a response. Insurance companies may also use negotiation strategies like making lowball offers, which can lead to prolonged negotiations.
Be prepared for these tactics and don’t be afraid to push back. Remember, you have the right to fair compensation for your injuries. A skilled 18-wheeler accident lawyer in Celina can help you through these delaying tactics and fight for the compensation you are entitled to.
Contact Our 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer in Celina
You’ve been through a traumatic experience, and now it’s time to focus on recovery and seeking justice. Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you. Our team at The Texas Law Dog will level the playing field.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
