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Need Help 18 Wheeler, Big Rigs Accident Attorney
18 wheelers, tractor trailers, big rigs or semi trucks are a common sight on the 101, I-10, and 1-5. Across the country, over 3 million big rigs drive more than 94 billion miles a year to deliver goods and food.
Unfortunately, semi trucks also pose a serious risk as accidents involving commercial vehicles can lead to extensive injuries and fatalities and that include death. Semi trucks account for nearly 60,000 injuries and represent more than 3,400 traffic fatalities every year, and California has one of the country’s highest number of registered semi trucks and the second-highest number of fatal 18 wheeler accidents, and with that comes victims.
Big rigs account for only 3% of motor vehicles on our roadways but result in 12% of traffic fatalities. One-quarter of semi truck accidents occur on highways. If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a Los Angeles 18-wheeler accident, an injury lawyer can help you with representation and explore your legal options and seek compensation for your injuries and losses.
18 Wheeler Accidents in Los Angeles
There are many potential causes of 18 wheeler accidents on Los Angeles roadways. As with car accidents, most truck accidents are caused by negligent or reckless driving, but sometimes the accidents are caused by poor truck maintenance, improper loading, road conditions, safety violations and other factors.
In some cases, fault may involve one or more parties which can make your claim for compensation more complex. An experienced 18-wheeler accident injury attorney will work on your behalf to investigate the accident, determine who was at fault, and build your case for compensation. Common causes of a commercial truck accident include:
- Poor truck service, maintenance, including the tires and brakes. 18 wheeler require a great deal of space to brake, and worn brakes can easily lead to an accident. A single blown tire can also cause the truck driver to lose control and rollover.
- Driver fatigue, fall asleep
- Driver negligence, such as improper lane change, speeding, or tailgating
- Aggressive driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Under ride collisions, which occur when a vehicle slides underneath the trailer on impact
Driver fatigue is an especially big cause of 18 wheeler accidents across the country or on long hauls. Truck drivers are required to take a short break within the first eight hours of their shift and log those hours, but the average maximum week a driver can work is 70 hours.
Drivers who are fatigued have reduced reaction time and difficulty assessing situations quickly. Many do not notice when they are drifting between lanes and that is when the crash occurs and when a big rig is involved the damages are greater.
Contact an 18 Wheeler Accident Injury Lawyer in Los Angeles
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If you have been injured in an 18 wheeler accident in California, its important to seek legal representation from an experienced personal injury attorney, the law firm knows what needs to happen as these cases are notoriously complex.
While the truck driver may be responsible for the accident, blame may also lay with the trucking company, a third party company responsible for truck maintenance, the truck manufacturer or another driver. The insurance company wants to get you to settle fast, don’t.
Contact the Los Angeles Injury Group today for a free consultation with a 18 wheeler accident lawyer to explore your legal options, help you receive compensation and protect your rights.