18-wheeler accidents can happen quickly and with devastating force. If you are on the receiving end of a big rig’s weight and velocity, the impact might cause extreme injuries. These potentially dangerous vehicles are the cause of many collisions every year.
A seasoned injury attorney may be able to help you recover financial compensation. A goal-oriented Kent truck accident lawyer is ready to help you with your case and protect your rights.
What Could Cause a Trucking Wreck?
Some factors in big rig crashes are similar to more common motor vehicle wrecks, while others are more uniquely associated with these collisions. Some of these causes may include:
- Intoxicated driving
- Distracted driving
- Excessive speed and reckless driving
- Exhaustion from overwork
- Improperly loaded cargo
- Lack of proper training
- Negligent hiring or driver
These causes that could occur may greatly harm another driver. Someone hurt in a collision like this should speak with a Kent 18-wheeler accident attorney to learn more about their options.
Common Injuries in Kent Truck Crashes
Big rigs may cause serious destruction in a crash because of their large size and weight. A wide range of harms and losses may result from an 18-wheeler accident including, but not limited to:
- Whiplash and soft tissue injury
- Vision or hearing loss
- Broken bones
- Disfigurement or disability
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Wrongful death
These are some of the types of harm are possible following a major 18-wheeler crash. If a person is on the receiving end of this type of high impact collision, they could be entitled to monetary damages. A local truck accident lawyer could help someone determine which injuries could constitute compensation.
Who Might be Responsible in Big Rig Accident Cases?
Responsible parties in a truck collision are financially liable for the claimant’s injuries. Liable parties could include drivers, big rig companies, and manufacturers. A well-versed 18-wheeler collision attorney in Kent could help the plaintiff determine which party is responsible for their damages.
Truck Drivers
A negligent big rig driver may be directly responsible for an accident depending on whether they are an independent driver or an employee of a company. Because they were operating the vehicle at the time of the collision, it is likely that they will be determined liable.
18-Wheeler Companies
Trucking companies can be responsible for the negligent acts of their employee drivers. They may also be responsible for negligent hiring, improper training, failure to maintain vehicles, and other actions directly attributable to the employer.
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of 18-wheelers and parts may also be liable for the wreck. If the design, part, or manufacture of the vehicle was the cause of the crash, the manufacturer could be financially liable for the plaintiff’s injuries.
Time Limitations in Truck Collision Cases
Most big rig wrecks must be filed within three years of the date of the accident, pursuant to the Revised Code of Washington § 4.16.080. If someone does not file within this time frame, they lose their opportunity to seek financial compensation. Speaking with a credible Kent trucking injury attorney soon after a crash could help avoid this potential issue.
Contact a Kent Truck Accident Attorney Today
Big rig wrecks are usually serious, and you may have suffered extreme injuries as a result of one, resulting in potential entitlement to compensation. An investigation and analysis of your case could be accomplished with the help of a knowledgeable attorney.
An experienced Kent truck accident lawyer is prepared to help you. Speak with one of our representatives today to learn about your legal options in your case.