Las Vegas, with its vibrant nightlife and bustling streets, is no stranger to traffic congestion. Amidst this urban chaos, accidents involving 18-wheelers can have devastating consequences. In fact, two of seven documented semi-truck accidents that occurred in Las Vegas in 2023 resulted in fatalities.
If you or a loved one was hurt in an 18-wheeler accident, it is crucial to understand your rights and the steps to take for rightful compensation. A Las Vegas truck accident lawyer, from Van Law Firm can help you seek the compensation to which you are entitled.
Benefits of Hiring a Las Vegas, NV 18-wheeler Accident Lawyer
Hiring a Las Vegas personal injury lawyer has several benefits. For one thing, handling the aftermath of an 18-wheeler accident requires a deep understanding of state and federal trucking regulations. Retaining an attorney specializing in this complex legal landscape ensures your case is built on a solid foundation of applicable laws.
Other benefits include:
- Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Proving fault in an 18-wheeler accident often involves extensive investigation and gathering of evidence. A seasoned attorney has the resources and skills needed to build a strong case by collecting crucial evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and black box data from the truck.
- Negotiation Skills with Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies and the claims process can be challenging because they often seek to minimize payouts. A skilled 18-wheeler accident lawyer knows how to negotiate effectively, ensuring that you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
- Litigation Experience: In cases where negotiation fails, having a lawyer with litigation experience is invaluable. At Van Law Firm, our knowledgeable tractor-trailer accident attorneys can represent your interests in court by presenting a compelling case. This improves your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.
For a free legal consultation with a 18-wheeler accidents lawyer serving Las Vegas, call (725) 900-9000
Who May Be Liable in an 18-wheeler Trucking Accident?
According to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) research, three primary critical events lead to truck accidents: veering from the travel lane, losing control of the 18-wheeler, and rear-end collisions.
Determining liability in an 18-wheeler accident involves a thorough analysis of various factors. Potential parties that may be held legally responsible include:
- Truck Driver: If his or her negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or fatigue caused or contributed to the accident, the truck driver may be liable.
- Trucking Company: The company employing the truck driver can be held responsible if it neglected proper maintenance, forced unrealistic schedules leading to driver fatigue, or failed to adequately train its drivers.
- Vehicle Manufacturer or Maintenance Provider: In some cases, faulty equipment or improper maintenance can contribute to an accident. In such instances, the manufacturer or maintenance provider may share liability.
- Third Parties: Other entities involved in the supply chain, such as cargo loaders or maintenance contractors, may also be held liable if their actions contributed to the accident. In some cases, the municipality where the accident happened could be held liable if poorly maintained roads contributed to the accident.
Determining liability is a critical step in building an 18-wheeler accident case. It requires a thorough investigation. A truck accident attorney from Van Law Firm can identify all responsible parties and take comprehensive legal action if you or a loved one is injured in an 18-wheeler accident.
Las Vegas 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer Near Me (725) 900-9000
Types of Injuries and Damages You Might Recover After an 18-wheeler Crash in Las Vegas
18-wheeler accidents can result in severe physical injuries, including severe injuries such as:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Broken Bones and Fractures
- Internal Injuries
- Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries
Recovering compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation, and ongoing care is critical for victims facing these life-altering injuries.
Emotional Distress and Mental Health
The emotional toll of an 18-wheeler accident can be profound, leading to conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Big rig accident victims may seek compensation for therapy and counseling to address these emotional damages.
Lost Wages and Diminished Earning Capacity
Victims of 18-wheeler accidents often face extended periods of recovery, impacting their ability to work. In these circumstances, they may seek financial compensation for lost wages. In cases where the victim’s earning capacity is permanently diminished, long-term financial support may also be warranted.
Property Damage
In addition to personal injuries, you can seek compensation for property damage, including the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle.
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What You Can Do to Support Your 18-wheeler Accident Case
Recovering from the aftermath of an 18-wheeler accident hinges on a strategic approach. Here are some of the things you can do to help your case.
- Seek Medical Treatment Immediately: After an accident with an 18-wheeler, your well-being is the top priority. Seek medical attention promptly, even if your injuries seem minor, because some symptoms may surface later. You want to ensure that your injuries and symptoms are tied directly to the accident and that your medical records include all the details. Otherwise, the at-fault party’s insurance provider can claim otherwise and reduce their settlement offer.
- Document the Accident Scene: If possible, gather evidence at the scene. This includes photographs, videos, witness statements, and contact information. If you can’t do this yourself, but someone you trust is on the scene, have them do this for you.
- Do Not Admit Fault: When speaking with anyone at the scene, avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Let the investigation determine liability. Anything you say will be written in the police report and can later be used against you.
Working with a lawyer in Las Vegas who has experience with 18-wheeler accidents can take the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on healing from your injuries.
Your lawyer can also guide you through the next steps, ensuring your rights are protected from the outset.
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Filing a Wrongful Death Case After an 18-wheeler Crash
If you lost a loved one in an 18-wheeler accident, you may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death case to recover compensation for:
- Medical Expenses before your loved one’s passing
- Funeral and Burial Expenses
- Loss of Financial Support
- Loss of Companionship and Consortium
- Emotional Distress
These types of compensation aim to provide financial support and recognition for tangible and intangible losses experienced by the surviving family members. Keep in mind that each case varies and the compensation you may get depends on your specific circumstances and applicable laws. Van Law Firm’s experienced tractor-trailer accident attorneys can explain your rights during a free initial consultation.
Call a Las Vegas 18-wheeler Accident Attorney in Las Vegas, NV Today
If you suffered injuries in an 18-wheeler truck accident in Las Vegas, contact Van Law Firm today for a free consultation. Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to ensure justice is served.
Nevada law gives you a limited amount of time from the accident to seek legal action. Don’t wait. Call us today.
No obligation consultations are always free.
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