Fighting for Justice After an 18 Wheeler Accident

18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer New Orleans, LAOur New Orleans, LA 18 wheeler accident lawyer knows that truck driver fatigue is a prevalent issue. A tired commercial truck driver can be a dangerous factor that ultimately causes devastation to occur. These large trucks are an intimidating presence on the road, and many drivers do what they can to avoid them. But if a trucker is fatigued and falls asleep behind the wheel, it doesn’t matter how safe anyone else is driving. If you were hit by an 18 wheeler and sustained serious physical injury and property damage, then reach out to Kiefer & Kiefer for assistance. We can evaluate your case, offer advice on who may be responsible, and how to pursue monetary compensation for all you have endured.

Table of Contents

 

As a major port city, New Orleans sees plenty of consumer goods come through, and most of those goods leave the city on 18-wheelers. These giants of the road are anything but gentle, though, and if you’re unlucky enough to get into a wreck with one, there’s a good chance you’ll suffer grievous injuries. At Kiefer & Kiefer, we support the rights of people like you who were injured in semi-truck accidents, helping you get fair compensation for your medical bills and other losses. We have the resources and legal talent you need to pursue a successful suit against the driver and the trucking company. Call our New Orleans, LA 18-wheeler accident lawyer today for a consultation.

18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer New Orleans, LA

Semi-truck collisions can result in serious injuries, including brain trauma, broken bones, and paralyzing spinal cord damage. These injuries often leave victims with permanent disabilities and chronic pain, impacting all aspects of life. If you have experienced this, know that you are not alone. Our dedicated legal team can help you pursue maximum compensation, support your recovery, and protect your rights.

Our New Orleans 18-wheeler accident lawyer builds a case to recover damages from the negligent trucker and often the trucking company. We work to secure payment for all your medical bills, vehicle repairs or replacement, and other material losses. In addition, we fight for compensation for the significant non-material impacts of your accident, such as pain and suffering or a reduced quality of life.

As your legal advocate, we gather the evidence necessary to support your claims for compensation and represent you throughout the process, including speaking on your behalf in court. Our firm collaborates with transportation experts who can help pinpoint where the trucker or trucking company violated federal regulations, and with vocational experts who properly value the loss of earning power and income caused by your injuries. Without help, you can secure the money you need for top-quality medical care, and to give you the means to rebuild your life after the wreck.

Why Our Experience Matters In Semi-Truck Accident Claims

Our New Orleans 18-wheeler accident lawyer understands the complications of semi-truck accident cases, such as high-value damages and multiple defendants. We use proven strategies to maximize your compensation, handle all negotiations, and guide you through every step of the legal process. Our commitment is to recover the full value of your damages.

  • Firm founder Megan Kiefer is a third-generation litigator who took over Kiefer & Kiefer from her grandfather, Senator Nat G. Kiefer, Sr
  • Megan has been Top Rated by Thompson-Reuters’ Super Lawyers
  • We’re recognized among the Top Lawyers by New Orleans Magazine
  • Megan Kiefer maintains a perfect 10.0 AVVO rating, based on peer evaluations
  • Senior partner Nat G. Kiefer, Jr. has tried over 200 cases and has handled multiple personal injury matters resulting in recoveries exceeding 20 million for clients

Have you been hurt in a semitruck accident and need legal advice? Call Kiefer & Kiefer today for a consultation.

Understanding 18 Wheeler Accident Cases

18 wheeler accidents, also known as semi-truck accidents, involve collisions between large commercial trucks and other vehicles. These cases often involve seeking compensation for injuries and damages sustained due to the negligence or recklessness of truck drivers or trucking companies. 18 wheeler accidents are often more deadly than other type of vehicle collisions due to the size of the semi-trucks.

The Role of an 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer

An 18 wheeler accident lawyer plays a pivotal role in helping you navigate the legal complexities of your case. An experienced New Orleans 18 wheeler accident lawyer from our team can help by investigating your accident thoroughly, negotiating aggressively on your behalf, and litigating effectively.

We conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances of your accident, collect evidence, and determine liability. Our lawyers engage in negotiations with insurance companies, trucking companies, and at-fault parties to secure a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. While many 18 wheeler accidents are settled outside the court, sometimes it’s necessary for our legal professionals to represent victims in a courtroom in order to obtain compensation.

Types of Compensation in 18 Wheeler Accident Cases

Obtaining compensation following an 18 wheeler accident can mean gaining compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, property damage, and other potential losses. Compensation for medical expenses includes all current and future medical bills related to the accident, such as hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation. If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be eligible to seek compensation for lost wages, including future earning potential. It’s also possible to seek temporary or permanent disability or job rehabilitation.

Compensation for the physical and emotional pain and suffering endured as a result of the 18 wheeler accident, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), emotional distress, loss of enjoyment in life, and more. If your vehicle or personal property was damaged in the accident, you can seek compensation for repair or replacement costs. Additional damages may include loss of consortium, loss of enjoyment of life, and punitive damages, depending on the circumstances of your case.

Accidents Caused by Fatigue

Truck drivers are often put through intense pressure to get to their destination on time. A trucking company may knowingly create a work environment that promotes rushing on each route. But speeding, skipping rest breaks, and not getting enough sleep are all contributing factors for why fatigue happens. Trucking companies can do more to oversee their driver’s operating hours and hold them accountable for proper rest breaks and sufficient sleep. There are state and federal rules that guide the trucking field. This means that truckers are only permitted to drive a set amount of hours within one day and there is a maximum for a week period. However, despite these regulations, drivers may lie on their log books to make it seem like they are following the rules but are in fact in violation of them. If you think the truck driver who hit you may have been fatigued, please let a New Orleans 18 wheeler accident lawyer know right away.

Steps to Take After an Accident

If you were involved in an accident with a commercial truck, there are certain steps you can take now that will help your case. See a doctor immediately so that your injuries can be officially documented. This will go a long way in showing to what degree your health was affected from the accident. Hopefully you were able to gather evidence from the scene, such as taking pictures and video and writing down the trucker’s name and trucking company details. The more evidence you have to show how and why the accident occurred, along with your injuries and financial loss, the stronger your case will be against the offending party. If you aren’t sure who to take legal action against, let us consult with you. The truck driver, trucking company, and a third party may all share liability in what happened.

Professional Assistance for Your Claim

Truck accidents between a commercial truck and passenger car tend to be serious. This is due to the large size and weight of these trucks, and how this force can cause substantial damage. If you are wondering about your eligibility for compensation and who to pursue this from, contact our team at Kiefer & Kiefer. A New Orleans 18 wheeler accident lawyer is ready to come to your aid with legal advice and guidance at such a difficult time. We hope to support you today.

Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents

A New Orleans, LA 18 wheeler accident lawyer knows how devastating truck accidents can be for victims and their families. This is due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, which can cause severe injuries, fatalities, and extensive property damage. The following are some of the more common causes of these crashes.

  • Driver Fatigue

Fatigue is a leading cause of truck accidents. Long hours on the road, tight delivery schedules, and pressure from employers can lead truck drivers to push their limits and drive while fatigued. Federal regulations, such as the Hours of Service (HOS) rules, are in place to limit the number of consecutive hours a truck driver can operate a vehicle without a break. However, a New Orleans 18 wheeler accident lawyer knows that violations and non-compliance with these regulations still occur, contributing to driver fatigue.

Fatigue impairs a driver’s reaction time, decision-making abilities, and overall alertness. This increases the risk of accidents, especially when operating large and heavy trucks that require more time and distance to stop.

  • Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a widespread problem that affects all drivers, including truckers. Distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using in-cab technology divert a driver’s attention away from the road. For truck drivers, even a momentary distraction can have catastrophic consequences due to the time it takes to stop a fully loaded truck.

The use of electronic logging devices (ELDs) and other technology to monitor and communicate with truck drivers while on the road can contribute to distraction. Strict enforcement of laws against distracted driving and company policies promoting safe practices are crucial to reducing these accidents.

  • Speeding And Aggressive Driving

Speeding and aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating and improper lane changes, are common causes of truck accidents. Truck drivers may feel pressure to meet delivery deadlines, leading them to exceed speed limits and engage in aggressive driving to make up time.

Speeding reduces a truck’s ability to stop quickly, increases the severity of accidents, and makes it harder for drivers to react to unexpected situations. Proper training, adherence to speed limits, and a focus on safety rather than speed can help mitigate this issue.

  • Improper Loading And Cargo Securement

Improperly loaded cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable and leading to accidents. Overloaded trucks can also have difficulty stopping and maneuvering safely. Cargo that exceeds weight limits can lead to brake failure and tire blowouts.

Trucking companies and drivers must follow strict regulations regarding cargo loading and securement. Regular inspections and proper training are essential to ensure that cargo is loaded safely and securely to prevent accidents caused by shifting loads or equipment failures.

  • Mechanical Failures

Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, and engine problems, can lead to truck accidents. Poor maintenance practices and equipment failures can result in a loss of control over the truck, especially when traveling at high speeds or on steep descents.

Regular maintenance and inspections of trucks are essential to identify and address potential mechanical issues before they cause accidents. Trucking companies should prioritize safety by investing in well-maintained equipment and providing ongoing training for their drivers.

New Orleans 18 Wheeler Accident Infographic

Most Common Causes Of Truck Accidents

New Orleans 18 Wheeler Accident Statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, large trucks are involved in an average of 5,000 fatal crashes each year in the United States. The most common type of 18-wheeler accident is a rear-end collision. Due to the massive size and weight of these vehicles, 18-wheeler accidents are more likely to be fatal than car accidents.

18-Wheeler Accident StatisticsNew Orleans 18 Wheeler Accident FAQs

In the vibrant city of New Orleans, where the rhythm of life meets the pulse of commerce, 18-wheeler accidents can cast a shadow on the bustling streets, often requiring help from a New Orleans, LA 18 wheeler accident lawyer. As we delve into the intricacies of these incidents, our focus extends beyond the legal nuances to encompass the human impact, offering insight and support. We aim to shed light on common questions surrounding these accidents and provide guidance for those navigating through the aftermath.

What Should I Do Immediately After An 18-wheeler Accident In New Orleans?

Prioritizing your safety is the most critical thing to do following an 18-wheeler accident. Ensure that you and others involved receive medical attention promptly. Contact the police to report the incident, and if possible, gather information from the scene. Documenting details such as license plates, insurance information, and witness statements can be crucial. As 18-wheeler accident lawyers, we emphasize the importance of this immediate action to protect your well-being and lay a foundation for any potential legal proceedings.

How Can I Determine Liability In An 18-wheeler Accident Case?

Determining liability in an 18-wheeler accident involves a meticulous examination of the circumstances. A New Orleans 18 wheeler accident lawyer can investigate the accident thoroughly. We analyze factors such as driver behavior, vehicle maintenance records, and adherence to traffic regulations. By leveraging our expertise, we build a case that identifies responsible parties and seeks appropriate compensation for our clients.

What Types Of Compensation Can I Pursue After An 18-wheeler Accident?

You might be eligible to pursue various types of compensation. This may include medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and even emotional distress. We work to understand the full extent of your losses. We then advocate for comprehensive compensation that reflects both immediate and long-term consequences, aiming to alleviate the financial burden placed on our clients.

How Long Do I Have To File A Legal Claim After An 18-wheeler Accident In New Orleans?

The timeframe for filing a legal claim after an 18-wheeler accident is subject to statutes of limitations. In New Orleans, these limitations set a deadline for initiating legal action. It’s crucial to file a legal claim as soon as possible. Filing a claim within the stipulated timeframe ensures that your case is heard and allows us to build a robust legal strategy on your behalf.

Can I Negotiate With The Insurance Company Without Involving A New Orleans 18-wheeler Accident Lawyer?

While it’s possible to negotiate on your own, it’s generally not recommended. Insurance companies often prioritize minimizing payouts, and navigating their tactics can be intricate. As 18-wheeler accident lawyers in New Orleans, our expertise lies in negotiating on behalf of our clients. We understand the nuances of insurance processes, ensuring that our clients receive fair and just compensation without falling prey to common pitfalls.

In the aftermath of an 18-wheeler accident, the path to recovery involves comprehensive support and expert legal guidance. If you or a loved one has been involved in such an incident, reach out to us, your trusted legal team. Our team is here to provide a confidential consultation, assess your case, and advocate for your rights. Together, let’s navigate the complexities, secure the compensation you deserve, and work towards a brighter post-accident future. Your well-being is our priority so reach out to Kiefer & Kiefer today to work with a New Orleans 18 wheeler accident lawyer.

18 wheeler accident lawyer truck crash scene

18 Wheeler Accident Glossary

If you’ve been involved in a serious collision with a commercial truck, working with a New Orleans, LA 18 wheeler accident lawyer can be vital to managing the legal and logistical aftermath. These cases often involve specific trucking laws, safety standards, and unique evidence that aren’t common in regular car accident claims. On this page, we explain several key terms and phrases that frequently come up in 18 wheeler accident claims, helping you better understand your rights and options.

Hours Of Service Regulations

Federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations are rules that limit how many hours a commercial truck driver can operate their vehicle before taking a break. These laws are enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and are intended to reduce the risk of accidents caused by driver fatigue. The rules specify daily driving limits, required rest periods, and weekly caps on total driving hours. Despite these regulations, violations still occur, often when drivers alter logbooks or ignore mandatory breaks to meet tight delivery schedules.

Violating HOS rules can be a critical element in a legal claim involving an 18 wheeler crash. If a driver was operating beyond their legal hours, this information may help support a claim for compensation, especially if fatigue played a role in the accident.

Electronic Logging Device (ELD)

An Electronic Logging Device, or ELD, is a digital system used by commercial drivers to automatically track their driving hours and compliance with HOS regulations. It records information such as engine start and stop times, vehicle movement, and driving duration. These records are often reviewed in truck accident investigations to determine whether the driver exceeded their legal driving time or took proper rest breaks.

ELD data can be crucial in identifying fatigue-related accidents. A driver may claim they followed the rules, but their ELD can tell a different story. This data can help a legal team establish a timeline and evaluate the driver’s behavior before the accident occurred.

Cargo Securement Standards

Cargo securement standards refer to federal guidelines that dictate how freight must be loaded, secured, and inspected on commercial trucks. These standards are in place to prevent shifting loads that can destabilize the truck, cause it to overturn, or result in flying debris during transit. Accidents caused by improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can lead to serious injuries for those in nearby vehicles.

Failure to meet these standards can implicate not just the driver, but also third parties such as cargo handlers or freight companies. Reviewing the cargo securement process is a standard part of investigating 18 wheeler crashes, especially when the accident involves jackknifing, rollovers, or lost cargo.

Brake System Inspection Reports

Brake system inspections are routine checks performed on commercial trucks to verify the condition and functionality of braking components. These inspections are critical because malfunctioning brakes can drastically reduce a truck’s ability to stop or slow down, leading to high-impact collisions. Inspections must be conducted according to FMCSA standards, and records are kept in the truck’s maintenance file.

When a brake failure contributes to a crash, the inspection history can be reviewed for missed red flags or skipped maintenance. This evidence may be used to hold a trucking company accountable for ignoring safety measures or deferring repairs to cut costs.

Black Box Data (Event Data Recorder)

Most commercial trucks are equipped with a device similar to an airplane’s black box, formally known as an Event Data Recorder (EDR). This tool captures key information such as speed, throttle position, braking patterns, and steering inputs just before and during a crash. It helps reconstruct the sequence of events leading up to the accident.

Accessing black box data can provide critical facts that may contradict a driver’s account of the crash. For example, if the driver claims to have braked suddenly but the EDR shows no such input, that discrepancy could support a stronger claim for compensation.

If you’ve suffered harm in a crash involving a large truck, it’s important to work with a legal team that understands these key technical issues. At Kiefer & Kiefer, our team is ready to review the evidence, explain your legal rights, and help you pursue the compensation you need to move forward after an 18 wheeler accident.

Let us help you take the next step. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and discuss your case with a dedicated attorney.

Damaged passenger vehicle after collision with commercial truck

Types Of 18 Wheeler Accident Cases We Handle

When an 18-wheeler collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. These massive commercial trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—roughly 20 times more than a typical car—and that size difference means even relatively minor trucking accidents cause serious injuries or death to people in smaller vehicles. Louisiana’s highways and interstates see constant commercial truck traffic moving goods across the state and nation, and when trucking companies, drivers, or maintenance providers cut corners on safety, innocent motorists pay the price. We represent individuals and families who’ve been harmed in collisions with large commercial vehicles, pursuing compensation from all parties whose negligence contributed to these devastating crashes.

Rear-End Collisions: Trucks that strike vehicles from behind often cause severe injuries due to the force of impact from such massive vehicles. Driver inattention, following too closely, brake failures, and distracted driving contribute to these crashes that leave occupants of struck vehicles with spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and broken bones. We investigate whether trucks were properly maintained and if drivers followed safe following distance requirements.

Jackknife Accidents: When a truck’s trailer swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the cab, it creates a deadly barrier across multiple lanes of traffic. Excessive speed, improper braking, slippery road conditions, and driver error cause jackknife accidents that trap and crush multiple vehicles. We examine driver training records, speed data, and road conditions to determine liability for jackknife crashes.

Underride Collisions: Passenger vehicles that slide beneath a truck’s trailer often result in catastrophic head and neck injuries to vehicle occupants. Inadequate or missing rear guards, poor visibility, and sudden stops by trucks contribute to underride accidents that cause severe trauma and death. We pursue claims against trucking companies and manufacturers whose failures allowed vehicles to slide under trailers.

Rollover Crashes: Top-heavy trucks that tip over on curves, ramps, or during evasive maneuvers crush adjacent vehicles and block entire roadways. Improper loading, excessive speed, driver inexperience, and cargo shifts cause rollover accidents that affect multiple vehicles. We investigate loading practices, driver qualifications, and speed data to prove liability in rollover cases.

Tire Blowout Accidents: When truck tires fail at highway speeds, the resulting loss of control can send trucks careening into other lanes or cause debris to strike nearby vehicles. Inadequate tire maintenance, overloaded trucks, and worn tread contribute to blowouts that cause serious multi-vehicle crashes. We examine maintenance records and inspection reports to prove negligent tire maintenance caused your accident.

Blind Spot Collisions: Large trucks have substantial blind spots on all sides where drivers cannot see smaller vehicles, leading to sideswipe accidents and merging collisions. Drivers who fail to check mirrors properly, change lanes without adequate clearance, or merge unsafely cause crashes with vehicles in their blind spots. We prove that proper mirror checks and safe driving practices would have prevented your collision.

Lost Load Accidents: Cargo that falls from trucks creates deadly hazards for following traffic and causes crashes when drivers swerve to avoid debris. Improper loading, inadequate securing, and failure to inspect cargo restraints result in lost loads that injure and kill innocent motorists. We pursue claims against trucking companies, loading crews, and shippers whose negligence caused cargo to fall onto roadways.

Wide Turn Crashes: Trucks making right turns often swing left first to navigate the turn, creating hazards for vehicles on the right side. Drivers who fail to signal properly, check for vehicles before turning, or swing too wide cause crashes with vehicles trapped in the turn radius. We prove that proper turn execution would have prevented these avoidable collisions.

Head-On Collisions: Trucks that cross center lines into oncoming traffic cause some of the deadliest accidents on Louisiana roads. Driver fatigue, distraction, impairment, and medical emergencies contribute to wrong-way crashes that often prove fatal. We investigate hours of service violations, drug and alcohol testing results, and medical qualification records to establish liability.

Intersection Accidents: Trucks that run red lights, fail to yield, or cannot stop in time at intersections cause devastating T-bone and angle collisions. Brake failures, distracted driving, and miscalculation of stopping distances lead to intersection crashes with severe consequences. We examine traffic signal data, witness statements, and truck maintenance records to prove fault.

Brake Failure Crashes: Trucks with defective or poorly maintained braking systems cannot stop safely, leading to rear-end collisions and runaway truck accidents. Inadequate maintenance, defective components, and overloaded trailers contribute to brake failures that cause catastrophic crashes. We pursue claims against trucking companies for maintenance failures and manufacturers for defective brake systems.

Driver Fatigue Accidents: Drowsy truck drivers have impaired reaction times and judgment equivalent to drunk driving, making fatigue-related crashes particularly dangerous. Violations of hours of service regulations, pressure from companies to meet deadlines, and falsified logbooks contribute to fatigued driving crashes. We obtain electronic logging device data and logbook records to prove hours of service violations.

Distracted Driving Collisions: Truck drivers who text, use phones, eat, or engage in other distracting activities while driving cause crashes that destroy lives. Federal regulations prohibit handheld phone use by commercial drivers, yet many drivers violate these rules daily. We subpoena phone records and obtain cab footage to prove driver distraction caused your collision.

Impaired Driving Crashes: Truck drivers operating under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription medications pose extreme dangers on Louisiana roads. While commercial drivers face stricter blood alcohol limits than regular drivers, some still choose to drive impaired. We review toxicology reports, drug testing records, and company drug screening policies to prove impairment caused your crash.

Improper Maintenance Accidents: Trucking companies that defer maintenance or conduct inadequate inspections put trucks on roads with defective brakes, worn tires, faulty lights, and other dangerous conditions. Federal regulations require regular inspections and maintenance, yet many companies cut corners to save money. We obtain maintenance records, inspection reports, and mechanic testimony to prove maintenance failures caused your accident.

Unsecured Cargo Crashes: Shifting cargo can cause trucks to lose balance, tip over, or veer into other lanes, creating multi-vehicle accidents. Improper weight distribution, inadequate restraints, and failure to inspect cargo during transit contribute to crashes caused by moving loads. We investigate loading procedures and secure testimony from loading dock personnel to establish liability.

Collisions with commercial trucks typically involve multiple potentially liable parties including drivers, trucking companies, maintenance providers, cargo loaders, and vehicle manufacturers. Insurance companies representing these parties will deploy teams of adjusters and attorneys to minimize their exposure, often while you’re still recovering from serious injuries. As an experienced New Orleans 18 wheeler accident lawyer, we at Kiefer & Kiefer have the resources and determination to take on large trucking companies and their insurers. We immediately preserve evidence including electronic logging devices, maintenance records, and black box data before it disappears. Don’t face corporate legal teams alone—contact us today to discuss your truck accident case and learn how we can fight for the substantial compensation you deserve for your injuries, lost wages, and pain.

Kiefer & Kiefer, New Orleans 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer

1100 Poydras St, Suite 1300, New Orleans, LA 70113

Contact Our New Orleans 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been involved in an 18 wheeler accident in New Orleans, LA, don’t face the legal process alone. A New Orleans, LA 18 wheeler accident lawyer can help you or your loved obtain the compensation necessary following an unfortunate event. At Kiefer & Kiefer, we are your dedicated legal partners, committed to advocating for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve after a traumatic accident, even if it means having to take your case to court. Contact Kiefer & Kiefer today to schedule a consultation with our experienced 18 wheeler accident lawyers. We are here to provide you with unwavering support, protect your rights, and help you pursue the compensation and justice you rightfully deserve. Start your path toward recovery and resolution by working with a New Orleans 18 wheeler accident lawyer from our team today!