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Accidents involving large trucks, 18-wheelers, semi trucks, or commercial vehicles can lead to catastrophic outcomes, with drivers and passengers in smaller vehicles particularly vulnerable to significant injuries. In the most tragic circumstances, these accidents can result in fatalities.
From big-rig accidents in Lafayette, La., to accidents in Southwest Louisiana, to delivery truck accidents nationwide, we’ve seen it all.
However, our reliance on large trucks has a caveat: they’re dangerous. When a semi-truck crashes, these car accidents are serious and often fatal for the occupants of other vehicles. This is because trucks are large, heavy, and incredibly difficult to stop.
Many law firms claim to handle 18-wheeler accident cases, but few can claim the level of experience and expertise it takes to successfully represent accident victims. Accidents involving commercial trucks and large 18-wheelers should only ever be handled by a lawyer with a record of success taking on big transportation companies and holding them liable after a truck accident. Craig Davis is that lawyer.
At the law office of Craig A. Davis, we know commercial vehicle accident cases can be complicated. We work on them often. Truck carriers and insurance companies will do whatever it takes to avoid responsibility. Because of this, you need an attorney who knows how to win and will fight to hold the employer or business financially responsible. An attorney that will aggressively fight for your rights.
Have you or a loved one been injured in a Lafayette truck accident? There’s only one 18-wheeler accident law firm that you should call. Whether you’ve been injured by accidents involving dangerous drivers or poorly maintained vehicles, we can help.
Our office takes an aggressive approach to every case we handle. This means we research, investigate, and develop the case as it’s headed to trial. We pride ourselves on not settling. We fight, and we fight for YOU!
For over 30 years, Craig and his team have helped thousands of personal injury victims pursue compensation for damages owed to them. We are dedicated to providing competent, compassionate legal support and giving you and your family the personalized attention you deserve. Our lawyers are committed to fighting for your rights and helping you recover maximum compensation for your injuries and losses. Give us a call today. Our conversations are always free, and you don’t pay anything unless we win your case!
The imposing size of big rigs doesn’t necessarily make them dangerous, but when they’re driven irresponsibly, maintained improperly, or thrust into a chaotic situation on a busy interstate, they pose a risk to us all. Vigilance, whether driving, maintaining, or troubleshooting, is crucial.
The margin of error for an 18-wheeler is much smaller than for your Toyota Camry. A moment’s inattention by the driver, and the truck has drifted into another lane and sideswiped a car. A panic stop by a big rig going 65 miles requires 525 feet (that’s roughly a tenth of a mile) from the time of driver awareness to a full stop. By comparison, a car traveling that same speed would need 316 feet.
The responsibilities of operating and owning an 18-wheeler are significant and should never be taken lightly. When they are, catastrophe can ensue.
Truck drivers have a duty to follow strict trucking regulations to keep others on the road safe. Unfortunately, truckers are frequently under immense pressure to meet deadlines, meaning they drive and work for long periods and engage in reckless driving behaviors.
Truck accidents have been on the rise in not just Lafayette but throughout Louisiana. The Center for Analytics & Research in Transportation Safety (CARTS), which is part of LSU, publishes statistics on almost every type of accident in the state of Louisiana.
Most attorneys who handle accident cases are hired on what’s called a contingency fee basis. Essentially, this means they are paid and their case expenses are reimbursed only if the client makes a financial recovery in the case—either through settlement or trial.
At Craig A. Davis, APLC, we handle all personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help. There is no charge for the initial consultation, and we are paid only if you win.
Truck accidents, and more specifically crashes involving tractor-trailers, often result in more serious injuries. This is because an 18-wheeler is much bigger and heavier than any car, pickup truck, van, or SUV. While many passenger cars weigh 2,000-3,000 pounds and SUVs can weigh around 5,000-6,000 pounds, a semi-truck hauling an empty trailer generally weighs around 30,000-35,000 pounds. If the truck is pulling a loaded trailer, it may weigh up to 80,000 pounds.
This additional weight means that an 18-wheeler in motion has tremendous energy and momentum, which is transferred to any object it hits.
You should seek medical attention as soon as possible following a truck, car, taxi, motorcycle, or bicycle accident. A doctor will be able to treat your immediate injuries and assess any health issues that may arise in the future as a result of an accident.
The value of your accident claim can vary greatly since the specifics of each case differ widely. However, the most common factors that affect the value include the following:
Severity and Nature of Your Injuries: The more severe and debilitating the injuries, the higher the potential value of the claim. An injury claim is valued based on the harms and losses suffered by the person injured or the family that has suffered the loss.
Insurance Policy Limits: The at-fault party’s insurance policy limits are a factor, as that informs the amount of compensation available.
Strength of Evidence: The stronger the evidence of negligence, the greater the likelihood of success in proving liability after a truck accident. This can lead to a higher settlement value or a larger jury verdict if the case goes to trial.
Experience of Your Attorney: Having an experienced lawyer in your corner will undoubtedly impact the value of your claim and the amount recovered.
These are just some of the factors that will affect the value of your claim. Ultimately, it is always determined on a case-by-case basis, and an experienced attorney will be able to review your case and evaluate these factors to provide a better idea of what you can expect.
At Craig A. Davis, APLC, we serve the following areas. Lafayette, Youngsville, Broussard, Scott, New Iberia, Abbeville, Breaux Bridge, Carencro, Duson, Crowley, Rayne, Maurice, Erath, Jennings, Lake Charles, Grand Coteau, Houma, Delcambre, Iota, Jeanerette, Meaux, Sulphur, Opelousas.
Disclaimer: The legal information presented at this site should not be construed to be formal legal advice, nor the formation of a lawyer or attorney client relationship. Any results set forth herein are based upon the facts of that particular case and do not represent a promise or guarantee. Please contact a Personal Injury Attorney for a consultation on your particular matter. Please read our Privacy Policy