What Is 18 Wheeler accident lawsuits Wheeler Law?

Accidents involving commercial truck drivers, their rigs and 18 wheeler accident lawsuit wheelers are covered by the 18 wheeler law. These massive vehicles are subject to federal regulations regarding maintenance, safety and training.

Unfortunately, trucking companies frequently force their drivers to work longer hours and alter log books. This can cause accidents that happen in trucks to be catastrophic.

Weight Regulations

Understanding the weight limits for semi trucks is essential. Weight limits for single axles as well as group axles are determined by most states. It is common to see weigh stations on interstates where drivers are weighed to verify that they aren't exceeding the maximum limits for their vehicle and load. If a trucker is caught breaking these limits and is fined, they could be penalized and even sentenced to jail subject to their criminal history and the state.

Axle groups have an increased limit because spreading the weight over more axles makes the vehicle more secure and allows for more cargo to be transported. A single tire on an wheel can weigh up to 700 pounds per inch, but when two tires are mounted on the same axle, they could be weighed up to 1300 pounds.

There are limitations on the types of trailers which can be used with the tractor. Some states only allow one trailer, whereas others only permit twin or triple trailers. Furthermore, many states require a fifth wheel on the trailer. This is a circular plate over the drive wheels which joins (hooks) the trailer to the tractor unit. Day cab tractor models as well as sleeper cabs can be found. They both include an area for sleeping inside the tractor unit.

Lane Restrictions

Truck drivers must obey speed limits and traffic signals in addition to lane restrictions. Trucks aren't permitted to operate at the same speed as cars used by passengers. If they do, accidents could occur. In most cases, it is the driver of the truck at fault. This is because truck drivers often drive longer than they are allowed to or violate the hours-of-service regulations, or become tired or distracted behind the driving.

Truck drivers are also forbidden from driving in the left the lane. Trucks brake much slower than cars for passenger use. This could be a dangerous situation, especially for cars that are smaller and could get stuck behind trucks when they suddenly slow down or stop.

Certain states specifically single out large trucks and prevent them from using the left lane, and other states limit the use of the lane under specific circumstances. These laws can be based on axel or weight limits. In other instances, they could be solely based on the vehicle's description.

Even if there's no statewide law that you can follow, you should be aware of local regulations regarding the lane restriction and adhere to them. It is also recommended to move to the right if you see trucks passing in the lane in order to not hinder faster cars from approaching you.

Ownership

The trucking and 18-wheeler businesses have an abundance of resources to employ to pressure accident victims into accepting less than they are entitled to. They have teams of lawyers and insurance adjusters who represent them before they even know if the accident victim will take legal action.

Due to their massive load and are much larger than passenger vehicles, 18 wheeler accident law firms wheelers frequently cause massive injuries and property damage when they are involved in accidents. This is particularly relevant when these trucks are involved in collisions with other motor vehicles. It is essential to find an attorney who is experienced in fighting for your rights against these powerful, large corporations.

Large vehicle accidents require an understanding of the most complex concepts in the fields of physics and chemistry, biology as well as federal regulations for trucking and medicine, driving standards and related fields. Our lawyers are able to discover any infringements of these laws and explain to the jury what led to your accident.

18-wheeler truck accidents are often caused by the negligent or reckless acts of a number of parties. Our NY attorney for accidents involving 18 wheels will investigate all liable parties and make sure they are liable for their fair portion of your current and anticipated expenses. This includes trucking companies and owners, maintenance contractors and even the drivers themselves. Our team will also analyze weather conditions that could have contributed to your accident.

Insurance

Trucking companies can send large teams of lawyers, adjusters engineers, experts and adjusters quickly. They start this process before they even know whether you will to pursue legal recourse. That is why it is essential to get an experienced attorney who will match their resources and bring them down to size.

A lawyer with experience in handling 18-wheeler crashes will ease your burden and help you get the compensation you're due. The money will cover costs like steep medical bills, vehicle damage, loss of wages due to absence from work, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.

18-wheelers are a complex vehicle which require sophisticated, systematic maintenance to keep them on the road. Inability to keep detailed records and perform this maintenance can lead to disastrous accidents.

Tractor-trailers are often carrying hazardous materials, which requires special training and special licensing for transport. The material is explosive, flammable, radiological or toxic, all of which pose significant risks to other drivers on American roads. A catastrophic accident could also happen if the load is not properly labeled and secured.

A qualified 18 wheeler crash lawyer can determine the precise causes of your accident and hold any responsible parties who are responsible. This may include the driver of the truck, the trucking firm, the owner or the trailer and the manufacturer of the truck and 18 wheeler Accident lawsuits its components. This is referred to as vicarious liability.