Charleston 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer
18-wheeler accidents can have devastating consequences, often resulting in severe injuries or even fatalities. The sheer size and weight of these massive trucks make them a significant hazard on the road, and they can be deadly in a collision with a smaller vehicle. Crashes with 18-wheelers are complex events, and holding the responsible party or parties accountable for the damage they caused can be challenging. The Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm exists for the very purpose of helping people in need by combining big law firm experience in personal injury litigation with a small firm approach to client service, tailoring our representation to meet your specific needs. Contact our Charleston 18-wheeler accident lawyer today to pursue the compensation you deserver.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Charleston
18-wheeler accidents can occur for many different reasons on Charleston roads and highways. Some causes of crashes are common to all motor vehicle accidents, while others are unique to the particular hazards of operating an 18-wheeler. Some of the most common causes of 18-wheeler accidents in Charleston include:
- Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road without adequate rest can lead to drowsy driving, a major factor in many 18-wheeler accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Texting, phone calls, and other distractions can divert a truck driver’s attention from the road.
- Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for road conditions increases the risk of accidents. Long-haul truckers under pressure to complete deliveries as soon as possible may driver faster than is prudent under the circumstances.
- Improper Maintenance: Failure to maintain trucks properly can lead to mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts. It is estimated that about one in five 18-wheelers on the road are operating with serious safety defects.
- Overloading: Exceeding the truck’s weight limit can affect its stability and handling, making accidents more likely. Failing to properly balance or secure a load can be equally dangerous.
- Substance Abuse: The use of alcohol or drugs by truck drivers can impair their ability to operate the vehicle safely. 18-wheelers require a higher degree of skill and attention to control, and any amount of drugs or alcohol can cause tragic errors in judgment or reaction time.
Injuries Commonly Sustained in 18-Wheeler Accidents
The impact of an 18-wheeler accident can cause severe injuries due to the truck’s size and weight. Some common injuries include traumatic brain injuries, which can have long-term effects on cognitive and motor functions. Spinal cord injuries, meanwhile, can result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting the victim’s quality of life. The tremendous force of a collision between an 18-wheeler and a passenger car can easily lead to fractures and broken bones, as well as damage to internal organs that can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. Even at slower speeds, the sudden impact of a crash can cause neck strains and whiplash injuries.
Steps to Take After an 18-Wheeler Accident
If you are involved in an 18-wheeler accident, it is crucial to take the following steps to protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety are the top priority. Get medical help immediately, even if you do not feel injured right away.
- Document the Scene: If you are physically able, take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
- Report the Accident: Notify the police and ensure an accident report is filed. Obtain a copy of the report for your records.
- Avoid Making Statements: Do not admit fault or provide detailed statements to the trucking company’s insurance representatives without consulting an lawyer.
- Contact an Lawyer: Reach out to the experienced lawyers at the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
How the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm Can Help
At the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm, we understand the challenges that come with 18-wheeler accident cases. Our dedicated team of personal injury lawyers is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to accident victims in Charleston. We conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence, including accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony when needed. While you focus on your physical recovery, we negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our experienced and successful litigators are prepared to take your case to court to pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.
Contact Us Today After a Charleston 18-Wheeler Accident
If you or a loved one has been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident in Charleston, don’t try to handle your claim on your own and wind up getting less than you deserve or nothing at all. Call the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm today at 843-310-5555 for a free consultation. Our experienced lawyers will guide you through the legal process and fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you need to recover and move forward with your life.
At the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm, we are dedicated to helping accident victims in Charleston, South Carolina, seek justice and fair compensation. Let us put our experience and resources to work for you. Call us now or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation.
