Filing A Claim For An 18-Wheeler Truck Crash (2025)

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Sarah Edwards

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Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.

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Summary

  • The force trucks exert can cause catastrophic injuries in a crash
  • Truckers, trucking companies and part manufacturers could be liable
  • An attorney can evaluate whether you’re eligible to file a lawsuit

Commercial trucks are vital for the economy, but they can also pose a significant danger on the road. If you sustained property damage or injuries in a truck accident, you may be entitled to file a lawsuit and recover your losses. Here’s what you should know about the process of filing a claim for an 18-wheeler truck crash.

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Truck accidents can leave you with serious injuries. Even if you live in a no-fault state, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim against the trucker if they were to blame for the accident. You can then receive compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.

Immediate Steps to Protect Your Claim After an 18-Wheeler Accident

To protect your claim for an 18-wheeler truck crash, make sure to contact emergency services immediately. This establishes a record of your injuries and ensures you receive the treatment you need.

Get law enforcement to the scene so that they can create a police report. Gather any evidence at the scene you can, such as photos of damage. As soon as you’re able, reach out to a truck accident lawyer to assist you.

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Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents

Truck accidents often occur because of driver negligence, including speeding, distracted driving and fatigue. In some instances, the truck may malfunction, or road conditions may cause the crash. Cargo loading problems could also cause collisions.

Why 18-Wheeler Crashes Are So Dangerous

These are massive vehicles that exert a tremendous amount of force. They can easily crush passenger cars, leading to catastrophic injuries and fatalities.

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Who May Be Liable in an 18-Wheeler Crash?

The trucker is usually liable for the accident, but the company that employs them could be responsible via vicarious liability. If a truck part is defective, the manufacturer could be liable, while a cargo problem could make the company in charge of loading it responsible.

What Determines the Value of an 18-Wheeler Settlement?

The severity of your injuries, how they impact your life and the amount of evidence available all impact how much your claim is worth. Your own degree of liability and the number of parties matter, too.

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Average Claim Worth for an 18-Wheeler Accident

The average truck accident settlement is $103,654, but the factors in your specific case will impact the exact number.

When to Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer About Your Claim

If you’re dealing with the devastating aftermath of a truck accident, you need assistance from an experienced attorney. The team at ConsumerShield can connect you with a local lawyer to represent you. Contact us to get started today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Where you live will play a role in how much time you have. If you live in Tennessee, for example, you may only have one year to begin the claim.

  • Most claims are settled out of court. If reaching a fair settlement isn’t possible, you may need to go to trial.

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