These types of vehicles feature different dynamics, stemming primarily from the size difference between them and other vehicles on the road. Trucks can be 25x larger than the average vehicle, which increases the size of the driver’s blind spots. In turn, this creates a potentially hazardous situation on the roadway. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds while a typical personal vehicle weighs less than 5,000 pounds. The weight of a loaded tractor-trailer causes significantly more damage than a personal vehicle because it carries significantly more momentum, making it harder to stop and causing greater impact force in collisions.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) are standards set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), an agency within the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). These regulations enhance highway safety by setting the rules for the operation of 18-wheelers, including driver qualifications, vehicle maintenance, hours of service, cargo securement, and more. An attorney who is experienced in 18-wheeler accidents and trucking negligence will be aware of these regulations and how they can affect your case, which can elevate your claim.

The Federal minimum insurance coverage for an 18-wheeler is $750,000. However, the company hauling the load does not typically own the trailer, and there may be additional insurance available from the business that owns the trailer. An experienced truck accident attorney can evaluate whether the trucking company is involved in a joint venture or similar arrangement with another company that is responsible for your injuries to secure additional compensation.

18-wheeler accidents often result from a combination of factors. Frequent causes include driver fatigue, often exacerbated by long hours on the road, and distractions like texting or using electronic devices. Equipment malfunctions, like brake failures or tire blowouts, and lack of vehicle maintenance further elevate the risks. Added challenges arise from improperly loaded cargo, which can affect the truck’s stability. Weather conditions, inadequate training, and the influence of drugs or alcohol can also play detrimental roles in causing truck accidents. Speeding and aggressive driving, often due to tight schedules, further compound the potential hazards.

Don’t panic. If a police report places you at fault in an accident with an 18-wheeler, remember that this report isn’t the final determinant of liability. Seeking experienced legal counsel is a crucial first step, as they can help review the report and pinpoint any inaccuracies or overlooked details. Additional evidence from surveillance footage to witness testimonies can provide a broader perspective on the incident. Modern 18-wheelers often carry electronic logging devices, which can shed light on the truck’s activities leading up to the crash. With new insights, it may be possible, with legal assistance, to contest the initial findings of the police report.