18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer in Beaumont, CA

Accidents involving 18-wheelers, also known as semi-trucks or tractor-trailers, often cause catastrophic injuries and extensive property damage due to their immense size and weight. As a result, victims may be entitled to significant compensation with the help of our Beaumont truck accident lawyer.

Who is Liable for 18-Wheeler Accidents?

Determining liability in an 18-wheeler accident in California can be complex due to the multiple parties that can be involved. Here’s an overview of potential liable parties:

• Truck Driver: The driver may be held liable if the accident resulted from their negligence, such as driving under the influence, speeding, or distracted driving.
• Trucking Company: Companies are responsible for hiring qualified drivers, maintaining their vehicles, and adhering to federal and state regulations. They can be held liable for failing to meet these obligations.
• Vehicle Manufacturer: If the accident was caused by a defect in the truck or its parts (e.g., brakes, tires).
• Cargo Loaders: Improper loading of cargo can lead to imbalances or spills, causing accidents. In these cases, the company responsible for loading the truck may be held accountable. 
• Maintenance Providers: If poor maintenance or faulty repairs contributed to the accident.
• Government Entities: In cases where road conditions or signage contributed to the accident, the government entity responsible for maintaining the roads might be partially liable.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Beaumont

18-wheeler accidents can occur due to various factors, including:

• Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to signs of truck driver fatigue, impairing reaction times and decision-making abilities.
• Distracted Driving: The use of mobile phones, GPS systems, and other distractions can divert a truck driver’s attention from the road, leading to devastating crashes.
• Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speed and aggressive driving behaviors increase the risk of severe accidents, especially for large commercial vehicles.
• Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drug use, whether prescription, over-the-counter, or illegal, can severely impair a truck driver’s ability to operate their vehicle safely. Our Beaumont drunk driving accident attorney can help in these trucking accident situations.
• Improper Maintenance: Poorly maintained trucks are prone to mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions and tire blowouts, which can result in serious accidents.
• Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo: Incorrectly loaded or overloaded cargo can cause an 18-wheeler to become unstable and difficult to control.

Types of Compensation Available for 18-Wheeler Accidents

Victims of 18-wheeler accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: Reimbursement for medical bills, including emergency services, surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
• Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: Compensation for lost income due to the inability to work, as well as diminished earning capacity resulting from long-term or permanent injuries.
• Pain and Suffering: Damages for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and resulting injuries.
• Property Damage: Reimbursement for the repair or replacement of your damaged vehicle and other personal property.
• Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the loss of companionship, support, and affection experienced by the victim’s spouse or family members.

In cases involving particularly egregious or reckless conduct by the at-fault party, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. Not all cases are eligible for punitive damages, however, our Beaumont car accident attorney will do their best to recover all possible compensation for your injuries.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Beaumont, you do not have to face this difficult time alone. Contact Hanson & Mouri today for a free, no-obligation consultation.