18 Wheeler Accident Attorney in Arkansas

In a collision involving a car and an 18-wheeler, occupants of the smaller passenger vehicle are likely to be seriously hurt. The sheer size and weight of these massive commercial trucks can lead to severe, catastrophic, or fatal injuries. Many semi-truck accidents occur due to the negligence of truck drivers or trucking companies. If you or your loved one has been severely injured in a crash involving a big rig, speak with an experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyer in Little Rock as soon as possible.

How Common are 18-Wheeler Accidents?

Due to the explosion of e-commerce and increased demand for freight transportation, large trucks are even more prevalent on U.S. roadways than in the past. Highways in Arkansas are congested with 18-wheelers hauling goods across the state and the country. More semi-trucks on the road have led to more truck accidents, as evidenced by the following statistics:

In 2021, the U.S. saw a 17% increase in fatal large truck crashes, with 5,788 people killed, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Among these fatalities, 72% were occupants of other vehicles, 11% were pedestrians or bicyclists, and 17% were occupants of large trucks.
From 2020 to 2021, the number of large trucks involved in injury crashes in the U.S. increased by 11% to 117,000, as stated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
155,000 people were injured in crashes involving large trucks in 2021.
The rate of injury crashes per 100 million large truck vehicle miles traveled was 33.6 in 2021, compared to 29.5 in 2015.

What are the Leading Causes of 18-Wheeler Crashes?

Like all motor vehicle crashes, semi-truck accidents have various contributing factors, many associated with trucking companies and their drivers. The following are some causes of 18-wheeler accidents:

Fatigued driving

Federal hours of service regulations limit the time truck drivers can spend behind the wheel without proper rest. Nevertheless, when truckers are under pressure to make delivery deadlines, they may drive fatigued, putting others on the road at risk.

Improper vehicle maintenance

FMCSA regulations require trucking companies to routinely inspect and maintain their big rigs. When they fail to do so, it can lead to brake failure, tire blowouts, and other equipment failures that can cause 18-wheelers to crash.

Distracted driving

Truckers travel for long stretches of roadway and spend many hours behind the wheel. They are as likely as other drivers if not more so, to be distracted by cell phones and other mobile devices, eating, drinking, checking navigation systems, or any activity other than safely operating the truck.

Speeding

Truck drivers may be tempted to exceed the speed limit when they are under pressure from employers to drive a minimum number of miles per day and to meet delivery quotas.

Overloaded or improperly loaded cargo

Overloading a big rig and exceeding cargo weight limits can affect the truck’s braking ability and stability. Cargo that is unsecured or loaded improperly can cause an 18-wheeler to jackknife – when the trailer swings out at a right angle to the cab, potentially crushing other vehicles in adjacent lanes.

Driving under the influence of drugs

In a recent analysis of self-reported studies, researchers found that 27.6% of truck driver respondents used drugs, according to the American Addiction Centers. Among these substance-abusing truckers, 21.3% consumed amphetamines, and 2.2% used cocaine. Although these stimulants may help drivers stay awake and put more miles behind them, they can also impact driving skills, increasing the risk for other motorists.

truck on long road with sunset in background

What Makes 18-Wheeler Accidents More Complex?

Truck accidents are more complicated than other motor vehicle collisions. An 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, compared to 4,000 pounds for the average passenger vehicle. This disparity in weight can lead to catastrophic injuries in an impact. Large truck crashes are often high-stakes cases with significant damages. Trucking companies and their insurers will fight harder to avoid large payouts. Truck accidents involve state and federal regulations and multiple potentially liable parties. Your best chance of recovering the maximum compensation available is to have a seasoned 18-wheeler accident attorney in Little Rock handling your claim.

Why Contact Us After an 18-Wheeler Accident?

McMath Woods has been delivering exceptional service and outstanding legal results since 1953. After 70 years of caring for injury victims, we continue our legacy of quality over quantity, putting our clients first. After an 18-wheeler accident that left you with severe injuries, our experienced trial lawyers can stand by your side and fight for the compensation you deserve. Our 18-wheeler accident attorneys have offices in Little Rock and Fayetteville. We have been named among Mid-South Super Lawyers®, rated AV® by Martindale-Hubbell®, and named among the “Best Lawyers in Arkansas” by the Arkansas Times. Contact our office today for a free consultation.