Truck Accidents

18-wheelers and other large commercial vehicles are an important part of Louisiana's economy. They deliver the goods we use every single day. Sadly, the way in which these vehicles are operated results in an unreasonably high number of serious traffic accidents. Each year, approximately 4,000 people in the United States are killed in 18-wheeler accidents, with thousands more suffering serious and life-changing injuries.

At Shanklin Sosa Injury Law, we have seen many times just how consequential trucking accidents can be. If you've suffered catastrophic injuries or lost someone you love, our attorneys will fight to hold the at-fault parties financially accountable.

There are times when trucking accidents are caused by drivers in smaller vehicles. However, in many cases, these crashes are the result of negligence on the part of the truck driver, the trucking company or both. Common causes of 18-wheeler accidents include:

• Fatigued or drowsy driving by truckers who have spent too many hours behind the wheel
• Distracted driving
• Trucking companies with unreasonable delivery deadlines that force truckers to speed and drive aggressively
• Truck drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs
• Cargo that is improperly loaded, unbalanced, unsecured or too heavy
• Vehicle problems like worn-out brakes and blown tires due to inadequate inspection and maintenance
• Failure to respond to changing traffic and weather conditions

If the truck driver was to blame for causing your accident, the driver's employer will also likely be held liable for negligent hiring, training and monitoring of the employee.

The truck's driver and the trucking company may both be liable. If the accident was caused by improperly secured cargo, the loading company may also be at fault. If a defect in the truck contributed to the wreck, the manufacturer or maintenance provider could also be responsible.

The damages you can claim include:

• Medical expenses: Current and future medical costs, including hospital bills, surgeries, rehab, medications and medical equipment.
• Lost wages: Both actual lost wages and, if you are unable to return to work, future lost wages.
• Property damage: Your vehicle and other personal items destroyed in the wreck.
• Noneconomic damages: Pain and suffering, mental anguish and loss of companionship.