18 Wheeler Accidents

Oklahoma City 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer

Types of 18 Wheeler Trucks

An "18-wheeler" is a type of commercial truck that is made of up a tractor and a trailer with a combined total of 5 axles and 18 wheels, hence the term "18-wheeler". These motor vehicles are also referred to as tractor-trailers, big rigs, Mack trucks and semi-trucks.

Some of the most common types of 18 WHEELERS INCLUDE:

Auto Transportation Truck
Box Truck
Bucket Truck
Bus Truck
Dump Truck
Flatbed Truck
Lowboy Truck
Refrigerator Truck
Tanker Truck

The tractor part of the vehicle, which houses the engine and driver, has 3 axles. The front axle has 2 wheels and each of the 2 rear axles has tandem wheels, or 4 wheels per axle. The tractor therefore has 10 wheels. The trailer typically has 2 sets of tandem axles at the rear, making a total of 8 wheels on the trailer. With the 10-wheel tractor and 8-wheel trailer, you then have a vehicle with 18 wheels. The tandem wheels and double axles on 18-wheelers make them able to carry extremely heavy loads.

Help for Victims of 18-Wheeler Crashes in Oklahoma

The legal limit in our state is 80,000 pounds as the gross vehicle weight, but an 18-wheeler may travel the roads with a heavier load if a special permit is obtained. The extreme size and weight of an 18-wheeler make it potentially deadly for any passenger car or light truck occupant. The smaller object in any collision will sustain the most damage, and that is true in an 18-wheeler accident as well.

What Happens When a 18 Wheeler Hits You?

After an 18-wheeler hits you, you should immediately call 911 to request emergency response is highly vital to determining any injuries you've endured.

In addition, contacting a truck accident attorney is crucial after getting the truck driver's information, employer, or trucking company information. Hence, you have the right to significant financial compensation for your injuries.

Still, you may find that your ability to recover the money you need is limited without proper legal counsel.

Benefits of Hiring a Lawyer After an Accident With an 18-Wheeler

If you've been seriously injured in an accident with an 18-Wheeler, it is highly recommended that you hire an experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyer to represent your interests. Trucking companies and their insurance carriers will immediately begin investigating the accident to minimize their liability. A truck accident lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure that your interests are protected.

At the Law Offices of Stipe & Belote, our experienced attorneys can thoroughly investigate the accident to determine the true cause and liability. We can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with experts to build a strong case on your behalf. A truck accident can result in serious injuries and significant damages. We will work to help you understand the extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Trucking companies and their insurance carriers often have high-powered legal teams working to minimize their liability. Our law firm can negotiate with these companies on your behalf to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we will work to file a lawsuit and take your case to court. Our team of zealous attorneys can represent you in court and fight for your rights to compensation.

Contact an Oklahoma City trucking accident lawyer from our team at the Law Offices of Stipe & Belote today to learn how you can seek fair compensation.

WHY HIRE Law Offices of Stipe & Belote?