18-WHEELER ACCIDENTS

Since 1966 the Burke name has been synonymous with aggressive, experienced, legal representation, tempered only by an honest, compassionate, client focused practice.
Since 1966 the Burke name has been synonymous with aggressive, experienced, legal representation, tempered only by an honest, compassionate, client focused practice.

An Experienced 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney Serving Abilene, TX

We always expect semi-truck drivers to safely transport and deliver the goods we buy and consume. This is often true, as 18-wheeler drivers go through extensive training to be some of the safest drivers on the road. However, they are driving very large vehicles that make it difficult to see other drivers at times or loads may shift during transport causing the vehicle to make unexpected movements. There also can be equipment malfunctions, driver errors, and adverse weather conditions that can contribute to auto accidents. When an 18-wheeler is involved in an accident, the results are often devastating. If you were involved in a trucking accident, our auto accident attorney can help you get financial compensation for your injuries and property damage. 
Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Complicated
Auto accidents involving semi-trucks are not like normal commuter accidents. Truck drivers work for a business, they may have been traveling between states, and much more. This makes these types of cases unclear. It also makes it much more difficult to prove who is at fault for the accident. Learn why else these accidents are complicated below:
  • Commercial Driver Licenses: Truck drivers must adhere to strict requirements under Texas and federal law. If a driver does not adhere to these rules, they are risking the safety of other drivers on the road.
  • Equipment Failures: Even when drivers are practicing safe driving habits, the unexpected can happen. All vehicles are a large, complex system of parts and components that work together to move and stop your vehicle. Unfortunately, sometimes these components fail and result in an accident. The cause of these equipment failures can be several things such as manufacturer defects or maintenance issues.
  • Maintenance Requirements: Laws and regulations require rigorous maintenance schedules for 18-wheelers. This does not mean that trucking companies always follow these regulations or keep detailed records of their maintenance. When maintenance is not performed promptly, parts may fail while driving.
  • Cargo Being Transported: Truckers can be transporting any kind of cargo you can think of, including hazardous materials. If these materials get leaked out of the truck, they can injure others and damage vehicles.
  • Insurance Companies: In an 18-wheeler-involved accident, there can be numerous insurance companies involved. There may be different insurance providers for the trucking company, the cargo loader, the cargo shipper, and the truck equipment manufacturer. This can mean that you must communicate with and file paperwork with numerous potential insurance agencies.
  • State & Federal Laws: The laws and regulations that impact the truck driver and what they can do will depend on if they are driving between states and what they are licensed for.
Contact Abilene's Trusted 18-Wheeler Attorney Today!
Burke Law Firm is an 18-wheeler accident lawyer serving the Abilene, TX area. If you were involved in a collision or accident with a semi-truck, you likely experienced personal injuries and vehicle damage. You may be eligible for financial compensation for your injuries and property damage that was done to your vehicle. However, proving liability can be challenging. Hiring an auto accident lawyer, like Burke Law Firm, will help take that burden off your shoulders. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation!
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