PRACTICE AREAS

18 Wheeler Accident

Did you know that one out of every eight traffic-related deaths involves a large commercial truck, such as a tractor trailer, delivery truck or an 18 wheeler?  This alarming statistic has been revealed by the National Traffic Highway Safety Administration and shows just how serious truck accidents can be, especially accidents that involve the largest vehicle on the road – the 18 wheeler.

Here are some interesting facts about 18 wheelers that may shed light on why collisions with these massive trucks result in so many injuries and deaths throughout the United States:

1. In the US, the legal weight for all 18 wheelers is 80,000 pounds, which equates to roughly 40 tons. The average car weighs approximately 5,000 pounds, meaning that 18 wheelers weigh 16 times more than your average passenger vehicle.
2. The average 18 wheeler is 70 to 80 feet long. However, 18 wheelers can vary in length and the actual size will depend upon the type of cab that is attached.  Most cabs measure between 245 feet to 265 feet.  This measurement is derived by measuring from the center of the wheel to the center of the steer.
3. Smaller cars have a unique advantage in that these vehicles are capable of making quick and sudden stops whereas 18 wheelers take about 40% longer to reach a full stop. That time may increase depending on the weight of the vehicle’s cargo, whether the vehicle is bobtailing, weather conditions as well as other factors. The key thing to remember is that it takes an 18 wheeler much longer to reach a full stop compared to smaller automobiles. 

All of these factors contribute to the lethal nature of 18 wheeler accidents and explain why so many collisions with 18 wheelers result in catastrophic injuries and wrongful deaths on an annual basis.

Legal Representation Makes a Difference

If you were hit by an 18 wheeler in Houston, you should take the time to set up a case review with Joel A. Gordon, a Houston 18 wheeler accident attorney with 17+ years of legal experience.  Joel A. Gordon & Associates offers free initial consultations to all clients and will take the time to answer any questions you may have related to your case.  If you are wondering how you will pay for you medical bills or how you can hold negligent third-parties responsible, Attorney Joel A. Gordon can give you the answers you need to regain some peace of mind.

After your free consultation, if you decide that it is in your best interests to move forward with filing an 18 wheeler accident claim, Joel A. Gordon & Associates will stand by you every step of the way.  Our firm will take on the task of negotiating with insurance companies and make sure that you receive compensation for your physical, emotional and financial losses.  Since 1993, we have been helping victims like you win their cases against negligent 18 wheeler drivers, trucking companies and large insurance corporations. 

[ Return to Top ]

If you and/or a family member have suffered serious or fatal injuries due to an accident, you and/or the family member may be eligible to file a claim. However, persons seeking to preserve any potential legal claims should contact an attorney promptly because Texas has mandatory time periods ("Statute of Limitations") in which a lawsuit must be filed.