Tractor-Trailer Accident Attorneys: Protecting Victims of Rear-End Collisions

If you or a loved one has been involved in a rear-end collision with a tractor-trailer, semi-truck, big rig, or 18-wheeler, you need an experienced legal team on your side. At Henderson Law, our attorneys have a proven track record of successfully representing clients in complex commercial vehicle accident cases.

Tractor-Trailer Accidents: Unique Challenges and Complexities

Rear-end collisions involving tractor-trailers, semi-trucks, and other large commercial vehicles present unique challenges due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. The immense force and momentum of a big rig can cause catastrophic injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and life-altering disabilities.

Our team of tractor-trailer accident lawyers understands the complexities of these cases. We know how to navigate the legal system, negotiate with insurance companies, and secure the maximum compensation for our clients. We have a deep understanding of the federal and state regulations governing commercial vehicles, and we use this knowledge to build a strong case on your behalf.

Don’t Face the Insurance Companies Alone

When you’ve been involved in a rear-end collision with a tractor-trailer, semi-truck, or big rig, the insurance companies will do everything in their power to minimize your claim. That’s why it’s crucial to have an experienced legal team on your side, fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

Catastrophic injuries

Rear-end collisions involving tractor-trailers can result in a range of injuries, some of which may be severe due to the significant size and weight difference between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles. Common injuries associated with these types of accidents include:

• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: The sudden impact from a rear-end collision can cause the head to jerk back and forth violently, leading to neck strain and soft tissue injuries commonly referred to as whiplash.
• Back Injuries: The force of impact can cause injuries to the spine, including herniated discs, spinal fractures, and spinal cord injuries, potentially leading to chronic pain or paralysis.
• Head Injuries and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Occupants of the vehicle may hit their heads against hard surfaces or be struck by flying debris, leading to concussions, contusions, or more severe brain injuries.
• Broken Bones: The force exerted by a tractor-trailer hitting a smaller vehicle can easily break bones, particularly in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis.
• Internal Injuries: The impact can cause internal bleeding and damage to internal organs, which might not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
• Lacerations and Abrasions: Glass from shattered windows and metal from twisted car frames can cause cuts and scrapes, which may seem minor but can lead to significant blood loss or infection.
• Psychological Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, victims of rear-end collisions with tractor-trailers may suffer from psychological issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.

It’s important for victims of such accidents to seek immediate medical attention, even if no injuries are apparent immediately following the collision. Some injuries, particularly internal ones or traumatic brain injuries, may not show symptoms until hours or days after the accident.

Liability in Rear-End Collisions with Tractor-Trailers

In cases of rear-end collisions involving tractor-trailers, determining liability and calculating compensation involve several key considerations. Here’s a breakdown of how these aspects typically work:

Presumption of Fault: Generally, in rear-end collisions, there’s a presumption that the driver who rear-ended the vehicle in front is at fault due to not maintaining a safe following distance. However, this presumption can be challenged, especially in cases involving commercial vehicles like tractor-trailers.

Negligence: Establishing liability often hinges on proving negligence. For the tractor-trailer driver, this could involve demonstrating that they were driving distractedly, speeding, or violating other traffic laws. For the trucking company, liability might stem from inadequate maintenance of the vehicle, insufficient driver training, or violations of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs).

Contributory Negligence: Maryland follows contributory negligence principles, which can affect compensation. If the victim is found even partially at fault, they may be barred from receiving any compensation (contributory negligence).

Vicarious Liability: Trucking companies can be held vicariously liable for the actions of their drivers if the driver was acting within the scope of their employment at the time of the accident. This principle can significantly impact the determination of liability.

Compensation in Rear-End Collisions with Tractor-Trailers

Types of Damages: Victims may be entitled to various types of damages, including but not limited to: medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. The specific damages available can vary based on the specifics of the case.

Calculating Damages: The calculation of damages involves assessing the direct and indirect costs incurred by the victim. This can include current and future medical expenses, lost earning capacity, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering. Expert testimony may be required to accurately quantify some of the facets of a client’s claim for damages. 

Insurance Negotiations: Compensation is often initially offered by the insurance company of the liable party. Negotiating with insurance companies can be a complex process, and the initial offer is not always reflective of the full value of the claim. Legal representation can be crucial in securing a fair settlement.

Litigation: If a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, the case may proceed to litigation. In court, absent a stipulation, liability and damages will be determined based on the evidence presented, which can include, but not be limited to: eyewitness testimony, expert analysis, and photographs. 

Impact of Federal and State Regulations: The trucking industry is heavily regulated, and violations of these regulations (such as hours of service violations) can be used as evidence of negligence. Familiarity with these regulations is essential for effectively arguing liability and compensation.

In summary, liability and compensation in rear-end collisions with tractor-trailers are determined through a combination of negligence laws, specific facts of the case, and negotiations with insurance companies. Given the complexities involved, individuals seeking compensation are advised to consult with legal professionals who have experience in handling such cases.

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a rear-end collision with a tractor-trailer, semi-truck, big rig, or 18-wheeler, don’t hesitate to contact Henderson Law for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our team of tractor-trailer accident attorneys is here to help you navigate the legal process and get the justice you deserve.