Big Rig Truck Accident Lawyers

Big rig trucks are found on almost every highway in the U.S. Truck wrecks involving big rigs can have catastrophic effects on victims.

If you or a loved one were involved in an accident with a big rig, you may feel overwhelmed and have many questions. How will you pay for your medical bills? Will you be able to provide for your loved ones? What if your injury is permanent? Who will pay for the repair or replacement costs of your car? Will you ever go back to work?

At Nix Patterson, our big rig truck accident lawyers can answer all your questions. We are committed to helping injured victims with their truck accident cases.

What Is the Difference Between Big Rig Accidents and Car Accidents?

So how are big rig accidents different from car wrecks?

Most passenger vehicles weigh around 3,000 pounds. But when it comes to semis, these trucks can weigh up to 80,000 by law. Our smaller vehicles, including SUVs, are no match for these big semi trucks.

The regulations that govern the trucking industry are also more stringent that car regulations. For example, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) doesn’t permit commercial truck drivers to drive for more than 11 hours. Tired or overworked truck drivers can be very dangerous.  FMCSA is the federal agency that regulates the trucking industry and passes regulations to help minimize risks.

Big rig accidents are also unique for the following reasons:

• There are typically multiple liable parties, such as the company that owns the truck and the driver of the truck.
• There is more insurance coverage for 18-wheelers, which is required by law.
• Catastrophic or life-threatening injuries are more common in a collision with a big rig due to the weight and severity of the impact.
• More damages may be awarded for big rig accident victims due to all of the reasons above.

Truck accidents can be very complex since they may involve multiple insurance companies, various at-fault parties, and complicated regulations. It’s advisable to speak to an experienced big rig truck accident attorney as soon as possible.

What Are the Common Truck Accident Injuries?

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), 4,842 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes in 2020, representing 9% of all fatal crashes involving motor vehicles. Approximately 107,000 large trucks were involved in accidents that led to injuries. Some of the injuries these victims sustained include:

• Burns
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Lacerations
• Internal injuries
• Vision and eye injuries
• Broken bones
• Back and neck injuries

Big rig accidents can cause severe injuries or even death. They may also leave victims paralyzed or in excruciating pain. Individuals may also be at an increased risk of psychological problems including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

What Should I Do While at the Scene of the Accident?

Here’s what our attorneys recommend:

• Keep calm
• Ensure your hazard lights are on
• Call 911 immediately — don’t underestimate your injuries
• Get medical attention
• Stay at the scene until the police arrive
• Get the details of all involved parties, including their insurance
• Get the contact information of witnesses
• Get the details of the police officers at the scene
• Take videos and pictures of the scene – the more the better
• Don’t admit fault or apologize to anyone
• Call Nix Patterson

Who May Be At-Fault for My Truck Accident?

The question of who’s liable for your tractor-trailer accident is a complicated one since various individuals or companies may share the blame. Some of the parties that may be at fault include:

• The truck driver
• The truck owner
• The trucking company
• The freight owner of the goods being shipped
• The truck or trailer manufacturer
• The trucking company could be vicariously liable for the negligence of contractors or employees.
• The truck maintenance company
• Other drivers

It’s possible for various parties to share varying degrees of fault in a big rig truck wreck case. Consulting a law firm like Nix Patterson is the best way to identify who may be held responsible for the result of a big rig truck accident.

How Can a Truck Accident Lawyer Help?

In many cases, your best path in a big rig truck accident case involves working with experienced injury lawyers. These kinds of cases require proper guidance from lawyers who can protect your interests. Some of the roles our legal team will take on include:

• Determining liability in your truck accident case
• Investigating and collecting evidence to build a compelling case, including:
  • Photos and videos from the scene
  • Eyewitness statements
  • Police reports
  • Black box data
  • Footage from dash cams and CCTVs
  • Vehicle damage
• Compiling all your accident-related medical bills to prove damages
• Sending demand letters
• Negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf
• Working with expert witnesses to build your case
• Taking your case to trial if necessary

What If the Insurance Company Contacts Me?

Even if an insurance representative seems friendly or concerned about your accident (and they are trained to sound friendly and be nice), keep in mind that they are working in the interest of their own employer. Insurance companies often try to minimize or deny accident claims so they don’t have to pay our as much money.

If an insurance company representative calls you before you talk to a semi-truck accident lawyer, DO NOT TALK ABOUT THE WRECK. You can politely decline to talk to them, but do not discuss what happened at all. They may attempt to persuade you not to talk to a lawyer by saying that lawyers make things more complicated and drag the process out. But please know, it is ALWAYS in your best interest to talk to a lawyer before speaking to any insurance company representative after a wreck.

Call Nix Patterson if an insurance company tries to get in contact with you. Allow us to handle the negotiations on your behalf.

How Much Will It Cost to Hire a Big Rig Truck Wreck Lawyer?

Experiencing a truck accident can be a life-altering moment for the injured person, their family, and friends. One of the stressful aspects after an accident is the financial burden.

Our firm works on an arrangement that doesn’t require you to pay any upfront costs. We only get paid once we win or settle your case. Nix Patterson is known for crafting legal solutions that are best for each individual case, no matter how complex. We will do everything in our power to help you through the trying time you’re experiencing.

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today With Our Big Rig Accident Lawyers

If you or a loved one has been injured in a big rig wreck, call Nix Patterson to discuss your options. Our attorneys can help you find out who may be liable for your injuries, handle settlement talks, and fight for the justice you deserve.

Now that you know what we can do, the ball is in your court. Contact us now to learn more about your legal options. Let us deal with insurance companies while you focus on your recovery.