About 18 Wheeler Accident Negligence
When an 18-wheeler crashes into a smaller passenger vehicle, the results are often devastating. Victims may suffer life-altering injuries, face long hospital stays, or even lose a loved one, all due to the careless actions of a party who was legally obligated to uphold safety standards. Such collisions are far more than minor fender-benders since the disparity in size and weight of commercial trucks makes them uniquely dangerous. Also, the legal issues surrounding 18-wheeler crashes are far more complex than ordinary car accidents.
If you or your family is dealing with the reality of a serious trucking collision in Jacksonville, Texas, you have the right to explore your legal options. At Richards Penn Bonner, LLP, our Jacksonville truck accident attorneys are familiar with the unique rules, regulations, and corporate interests involved in commercial vehicle crashes. We work to identify every liable party and pursue the maximum compensation our clients need to recover and move forward. Contact our office today to discuss your legal rights.
Statewide Service, East Texas Roots
Jacksonville Truck Accident Guide
Why Choose a Truck Accident Lawyer From Richards Penn Bonner, LLP
Truck accident cases require a level of legal and investigative attention that goes beyond ordinary car wrecks. This is because of the possibility of having to investigate multiple parties for responsibility in the accident. To establish fault in Jacksonville 18-wheeler accidents, you must also assess critical sources of evidence such as driver logs, black box data, and maintenance records and evaluate compliance with FMCSA regulations.
At Richards Penn Bonner, LLP, we boast over 80 years of combined legal experience advocating for the rights of victims injured in various traffic crashes. We understand how commercial carriers and their insurers operate, and we know how to counter the tactics they may use to shift blame to the victims or other parties so as to limit liability. We also work with a team of professional investigators who are available on demand to inspect accident scenes, secure time-sensitive evidence, and identify key factors others might overlook.
Also, you can reach our team 24/7 to report your crash or inquire about the progression of your case. When you engage us, we conduct immediate scene inspections, obtain black box data from the truck, preserve dashcam footage, and interview witnesses before evidence is lost or altered. This early investigation is key, as trucking companies often dispatch their own teams within hours of a crash and potentially overlook some details.
Importantly, we make sure we can be accessed conveniently. Our office is located at 516 E Commerce St. in Jacksonville, Texas, which allows us to represent truck accident victims throughout the region. Consultations are always free, so don't shy away from visiting us due to your current financial situation.
Which Injuries Are Common in a Jacksonville 18-Wheeler Accident Case?
An 18-wheeler usually weighs up to 80,000 pounds when loaded, which means that crashes involving these trucks can be catastrophic due to the immense force involved. As such, victims are more likely to suffer devastating injuries that require long-term care. Even those who survive these crashes may face permanent disabilities or significant changes to their quality of life. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Collisions can cause head trauma, leading to concussions or more severe brain damage. These injuries may lead to issues such as cognitive impairments, memory loss, or long-term neurological issues.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: The magnitude of the truck accident can damage the spine, potentially causing partial or complete paralysis. Such injuries often necessitate lifelong care and significant lifestyle adjustments.
- Fractures and Orthopedic Injuries: Broken bones, particularly in the limbs, pelvis, or ribs, are frequent due to the intense impact. Medical professionals may recommend surgical intervention for these injuries, which may mean a prolonged recovery period.
- Burns and Scarring: Fires caused by truck fuel tanks or chemical cargo can result in disfiguring burns and may require skin grafts or reconstructive surgery.
- Internal Injuries: Blunt trauma can cause damage to internal organs, leading to internal bleeding. These conditions are often life-threatening and demand immediate medical attention.
- Wrongful Death: In fatal 18-wheeler crashes, the legal dependents of the deceased may have grounds to pursue wrongful death benefits from the at-fault parties.
Due to the fatal nature of these injuries, it is important to seek comprehensive compensation to cover all the pain and suffering. At Richards Penn Bonner, LLP, we meticulously document the extent of your injuries to build a strong case. This approach ensures that your claim reflects the full impact of the accident on your life to support your full recovery.
How Can a Truck Accident Lawyer in Jacksonville Help?
When someone suffers an injury in a crash with an 18-wheeler, the company that owns the truck is usually quick to respond, often before the injured party has even left the hospital. These companies may send representatives to the scene, begin shifting blame, or try to settle before a full investigation takes place.
At Richards Penn Bonner, LLP, we step in quickly to protect our clients from these tactics. We gather the documents and evidence that tell the whole story, such as:
- Driver logs and hours-of-service compliance
- Vehicle maintenance and inspection records
- Black box (ECM) data and dashboard camera footage
- Company safety policies and training records
- Cargo loading records and weight reports
- Any prior violations or safety concerns involving the company
We also assess the full financial impact of the injuries—past and future medical costs, missed work, loss of earning potential, and the physical and emotional toll of the crash. Insurance companies may attempt to downplay these losses. Our role is to present a full and well-supported claim that reflects what you have been through as a result of the crash.
If the trucking company refuses to resolve the matter fairly, we prepare the case for trial. This preparation begins from day one and allows us to present strong, well-documented arguments in the courtroom if necessary. Our Jacksonville truck accident attorneys will manage all filings, discovery, and procedural steps to keep your case compliant with the two-year statute of limitations.
Contact A Truck Accident Attorney at Richards Penn Bonner, LLP
When dealing with Jacksonville 18-wheeler accidents, we advise victims to act swiftly because time matters a lot in these cases. Importantly, timely action is key to ensuring that important evidence is well preserved to avoid its disappearance. Richards Penn Bonner, LLP offers free consultations to those hurt in a commercial trucking collision. Therefore, you are welcome to ask questions about your case and know your legal recovery options at no cost. Call (903) 225-5772 to book a free case evaluation with a Jacksonville personal injury lawyer.