Trucking is essential for the U.S. economy to ensure the efficiency of everyday goods transportation throughout the nation. However, many accidents occur during the process, especially for 18-wheelers or semi-trucks. Therefore, 18 wheeler accident lawyers are needed so the affected people can get their due compensation.
About 18 Wheeler Accident
Why are there so many trucking accidents? Driving trucks like 18-wheelers always poses inherent risks due to their large size and speed, which might cause significant damage on the road. These trucks weigh more than 10,000 pounds. When fully loaded, the weight can increase up to 80,000 pounds.
Thousands of trucking accidents happen every year, leading to many injured people. Although the implementation of stricter regulations is apparent within the industry, trucking accidents rise continuously. The most prevalent reason for these accidents is desperate trucking companies wanting to cut scots, fill seats, and meet deadlines.
5 U.S. States with the Most Trucking Accidents
18-wheeler accident cases are different from other auto accident cases. These semi-trucks get into different types of accidents, and the problems are often varied and more complex. Therefore, understanding the particular aspects of 18-wheeler accidents can be valuable in winning your claim. Some of those aspects are:
- Having commercial truck insurance.
- More damages during the accident.
- Trucking laws and regulations may complicate the cases.
According to Varghese Summerset Injury Law Group analysis, five U.S. states have the most trucking accidents. Based on 2022 data, those states are Texas, California, Florida, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. Following this is the explanation and a list of 18 wheeler accident lawyers available in each state.
1. Texas
Texas is on top of the list as the state, with an astounding 18,607 truck accidents and 784 fatalities. Notably, the bustling industrial sectors and vast and sometimes remote expanse of highways make it the center for dangerous trucking.
Many big oil and gas industries dominate Texas’ industrial sectors. They operate non-stop, as seen from the constantly moving trucks in and out of drilling sites. These reasons contribute to a high volume of trucks, causing the state to be prone to accidents.
So, to handle the accident case swiftly, here is a list of names of recommended 18 wheeler accident lawyers in Texas:
- Kelly E. Cook
- Anna Greenberg
- Cory D. Itkin
- Donald Kidd
- Anna McMullen
2. California
The second place belongs to California’s ports and bustling cities. In total, there are 13,292 accidents involving large trucks and 489 fatalities. The state’s scenic yet congested passages are dangerous for truck drivers and commuters, especially around cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Nearly 1 million commercial trucks, including 18-wheelers, are registered in California. Those many trucks contribute the most to the high number of accidents occurring from year to year. Many municipalities have tried to reduce the number of trucks by applying strict restrictions.
The restrictions are to control how long operation of trucks on several holidays, such as New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Labor Day, and Memorial Day. Specifically in San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Sacramento, those restrictions are in effect.
Further, here is a list of professional 18 wheeler accident lawyers to help you fail a claim in California:
- Yoni Weinberg.
- Ari Friedman.
- Mike Alder.
- Mark Bloom.
3. Florida
The state of Florida ranked third by having 8,915 truck accidents and 279 fatalities. Widely known for its agricultural exports and tourism, this state has a considerable flow of trucks carrying all kinds of products.
The main factor behind the high number of accidents is due to the central part of the state as a large-scale warehousing and logistic hub. Unfortunately, many of the highways in Florida have a hard time supporting the increase in truck traffic.
If you have suffered from trucking accidents, below is a list of experienced 18 wheeler accident lawyers you may contact to consult about your case.
- George Mencio Jr.
- Jeffrey S. Tenen.
- Shawn Brooks.
- Jacob J. “Jake” Liro.
- Vanesa Romero-Molina.
- Alison Sausaman.
- Taira Towne.
- Kyle Weaver.
- Brain Yasiniac.
4. Illinois
This state acts as a vital intersection for trucks to travel across the country with its central location. Illinois reported having 7,454 accidents and 215 fatalities, ranking the fourth as the state with the most trucking accidents in the United States.
Moreover, Chicago, Illinois, has a role as the primary connector between the East and West coasts. In addition to the bustling interchanges around this city, it intensifies the flow of truck traffic and increases the chance of accidents. The list of law firms to find your best 18 wheeler accident lawyers are as follows:
- Flanagan Injury Law Group, LLC.
- Power Rogers, LLP.
- Salvi & Maher, LLP.
- Hupy and Abraham S.C.
- Sam Adam Jr. Law Group.
5. Pennsylvania
In the last place is the Pennsylvania state, situated at the crossroads of the Northeast. Reportedly, this state had 7,388 trucking accidents and 177 fatalities. Pennsylvania’s role as the connector of major cities and industrial areas has dense road networks and changing terrain from mountain regions to urban hubs.
Those characteristics may contribute to the many trucking accidents occurring within the state. Truck drivers must be vigilant when traveling the state from the ports of Philadelphia to the coal regions and beyond. Then, here is a list of recommended law firms to look for 18 wheeler accident lawyers:
- Cordisco & Saile LLC.
- Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys.
- Reiff Law Firm.
- Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLP.
- Thomas, Conrad & Conrad Law Offices.
- Stark & Stark.
Causes and Damages of 18 Wheeler Accidents
In general, there are nine causes why 18-wheeler accidents are disturbingly common, such as:
- Distracted driving
- Fatigued driving
- Improperly loaded trailers
- Under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Speeding
- Bad weather
- Lack of training
- Truck defects
- Failing to keep up with inspections and maintenance
Many people suffer from pain and emotional distress caused by trucking accidents. On the other hand, some economic damages include lost income, medical bills, and property damage. Also, you can make documentation of the damages you have experienced as evidence to help your lawyers win the claim.
Have You Decided on Your 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyers?
When you choose your 18 wheeler accident lawyers, make sure to look at the records and experiences they have had dealing with similar cases. Always keep in mind that the cooperation of you and your chosen lawyers is crucial. Therefore, you can eventually get your deserved financial compensation.
