When an 18-wheeler and a car collide, the results are often nothing short of catastrophic. When a massive semi-truck crashes into a much smaller vehicle, it typically results in some sort of significant damage. Thankfully, when you have a Denver 18-wheeler accident lawyer on your side, you know what the next step to take is.
You’re dealing with serious injuries, piles of medical bills, time away from work, and just a huge amount of physical and emotional pain. It’s a lot for anyone to handle on their own, and that’s where a good Denver truck accident lawyer can really help. Having someone in your corner who knows the legal jargon and deals with these types of cases consistently can make a world of difference.
Federal Rules and Regulations to Be Aware Of
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates that motor carriers systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all vehicles under their control, ensuring parts like brakes remain in safe operating condition at all times. Carriers must keep detailed maintenance records for each vehicle they control for 30+ days. Drivers are also required to complete post-trip inspection reports daily, and carriers must certify in writing that any defects have been repaired or don’t require immediate attention.
FMCSA regulations stipulate that all commercial vehicles undergo a thorough yearly inspection at minimum, with records kept for 14 months. There are extensive technical requirements for the various brake systems and components used on commercial trucks. For example, all brakes a truck is equipped with must be fully operational, automatic slack adjusters are required on air brake systems on vehicles made after October 20, 1994, and brake lining or pad thickness must meet specified minimums.
The carrier holds responsibility for guaranteeing that all brake inspections, maintenance, repairs, and service are performed by qualified personnel in accordance with the regulations.
Brake inspectors must meet training and experience requirements, such as completing an approved training program or having a year of combined brake-related training and experience. Carriers are required to maintain records substantiating each brake inspector’s qualifications for the duration of their employment.
Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents
The distinct characteristics of large commercial vehicles, such as semi-trucks, can lead to especially hazardous accident scenarios. While the circumstances surrounding each incident may vary, there are several types of accidents that are known to occur more frequently. Some of the most frequent types of crashes include:
- Rear-end collisions
- Rollover accidents
- Jackknife accidents
- Underride accidents
Rear-end collisions involving 18-wheelers often result from factors such as driver distraction, following too closely, or failing to account for the truck’s longer stopping distance. In a rollover accident, the truck may tip onto its side due to issues like excessive speed, sharp turns, or unstable loads. Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer swings out to one side, forming a 90-degree angle with the cab, often due to improper braking or swerving. Underride accidents, on the other hand, involve smaller vehicles sliding underneath the trailer, which can be particularly dangerous due to the height difference between the vehicles.
When More than One Party Is at Fault
In some 18-wheeler accident cases, the responsibility for the crash may be shared among multiple parties. While the truck driver’s actions, such as speeding or reckless driving, may have directly contributed to the accident, other factors can also come into play. For instance, if the trucking company failed to conduct proper background checks when hiring the driver or neglected to maintain the vehicle adequately, they may also be held liable.
Another scenario where multiple parties might share fault is when the accident involves other motorists. For example, if a car driver was distracted or driving aggressively, they may be partially responsible for the collision, even if the truck driver also made errors that contributed to the crash. In such cases, the fault may be apportioned among the involved parties based on the extent of their respective negligence.
Determining fault in these complex situations requires a thorough investigation by a skilled Denver personal injury lawyer and potentially accident reconstruction experts. They will examine evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and vehicle data to piece together a clear picture of what happened and who should be held accountable. By identifying all the responsible parties, your 18-wheeler accident lawyer in Denver can help you pursue the maximum compensation available for your injuries and losses.
Injuries Often Associated with 18-Wheeler Accidents
The force generated when an 18-wheeler crashes into a passenger vehicle can result in many types of injuries, some of which may have life-long consequences. While every accident is unique, certain types of injuries are more commonly associated with these devastating collisions. Some of the common injuries are the following:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Crush injuries and amputations
- Severe burns and disfigurement
- Internal organ damage
The emotional trauma of experiencing such a catastrophic event can be immense. You may struggle with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health difficulties as you come to terms with your new reality. The financial burden of medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing care can also be overwhelming, adding to the stress and uncertainty faced by victims and their families.
Damages You Can Possibly Claim
When you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation for the losses you’ve suffered. These losses, known as damages, can cover various types of financial, physical, and emotional hardships. While the specific damages available will depend on the unique circumstances of your case, some of the most common types of damages pursued in 18-wheeler accident claims include:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and income
- Property damage
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
In certain situations, if the actions of the at-fault party were especially egregious or reckless, you might also have the option to pursue punitive damages. Punitive damages are designed to penalize the wrongdoer and discourage similar conduct in the future. Determining the full extent of your damages often requires the help of a Denver 18-wheeler accident attorney who can thoroughly investigate your case and consult with medical and financial experts.
When the Trucking Company Is at Fault
Trucking companies have a legal duty to operate safely and ensure their vehicles are properly maintained. But some carriers cut corners to boost profits, putting everyone on the road at risk. If a company’s negligence led to your 18-wheeler accident, it can be held accountable.
Examples of trucking company negligence include allowing or encouraging drivers to violate hours of service regulations, hiring drivers with poor safety records, failing to perform required maintenance and inspections, and overloading trailers. Proving this negligence is essential for holding the company responsible and recovering the compensation you deserve. You will need to take the time to make sure you have solid proof for this.
Your lawyer can gather important evidence before it’s lost or destroyed. This may include sending a spoliation letter to the trucking company requiring it to maintain records like driver logs, black box data, dispatch instructions, and maintenance reports. An attorney can also interview witnesses, consult with experts, and take other steps to build a strong case on your behalf.
How to Submit a Claim if It’s a Faulty Mechanical Issue
If a defective or malfunctioning truck part caused your 18-wheeler accident, you may have a claim against the manufacturer. These complex product liability cases require proving that the component was unreasonably dangerous and that the defect caused the crash. Types of mechanical issues that commonly lead to wrecks include faulty brakes, defective tires, transmission failure, broken tie rods, and more.
To pursue a product liability claim, your attorney may work with engineering and trucking industry experts to inspect the wreckage, identify the defect, and trace it back to the manufacturing process. This requires an understanding of complex state and federal vehicle regulations. Your lawyer can also investigate whether the manufacturer knew of the defect and failed to issue a recall or warning.
Product liability claims are subject to strict statutes of limitations, so it’s important to consult with a 18-wheeler accident lawyer in Denver as soon as possible. Don’t let a negligent manufacturer off the hook for putting a dangerous truck on the road. Hold them accountable with help from an 18-wheeler accident attorney in Denver.
How Zinda Law Can Help You
At Zinda Law Group, our attorneys have the skills, resources, and dedication to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. We understand the immense physical, emotional, and financial strain a serious trucking crash can inflict on you and your family. Let us handle the legal aspects of your claim while you focus on healing.
We can investigate the accident, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with experts to build the strongest case possible. Our attorneys will deal with the trucking and insurance companies on your behalf. We will work diligently to get you full and fair compensation for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Don’t wait to get the legal representation you need. Reach out to our team as soon as you can for the best potential results. We can never guarantee anything, but we will work hard towards the outcome you’re looking for.
Why You Should Always Wait for Legal Representation Before Statements
After an 18-wheeler accident, the trucking company’s insurance carrier may contact you seeking a statement about the crash. They may seem friendly and express concern for your well-being. However, don’t fall for it, as their goal is to get you to say something that can be used against you to minimize or deny your claim.
That’s why it’s critical to politely decline to give a statement and refer the insurance adjuster to your 18-wheeler accident attorney in Denver instead. Even an innocent misstatement or inconsistency can damage your case. Let your lawyer communicate with the insurer on your behalf to protect your rights.
A lawyer can also advise you on other steps to take. They can help with missteps to avoid and how to support your claim and form strong evidence from the crash scene. With legal representation, you can avoid common mistakes and position yourself for the best possible outcome.
How Long You Typically Have to File a Claim
In Colorado, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including those involving 18-wheeler accidents, is typically two years after the injury occurred, according to the Colorado Legislature. However, this time limit may be extended in certain circumstances, such as when the injury is not discovered until later. It’s important to work with an attorney as soon as possible after an accident to ensure your claim is filed within the applicable deadline.
If you miss the statute of limitations, you will likely be exempt from recovering any compensation for your injuries and losses, no matter how strong your case may be. The trucking company’s insurer may even try to drag out negotiations until the statute of limitations expires, hoping you’ll miss the deadline. That’s why it’s so important to have a knowledgeable lawyer on your side who can keep your case on track and file a lawsuit if necessary to protect your rights.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to take action after an 18-wheeler accident. Contact an 18-wheeler accident lawyer in Denver to discuss your case and learn how to proceed. The sooner you get started, the better your chances of securing the full and fair compensation you need to rebuild your life.
Work with a Denver 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney
You should never attempt to handle a truck accident case on your own if you want to get the best possible results. You may be entitled to compensation, and the dedicated attorneys at Zinda Law are here to help you fight for it. We have the knowledge, experience, and resources to stand up to the trucking and insurance companies and demand the justice you feel you deserve.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Tell us your story and learn how we can help you move forward after a devastating truck accident. Let us help you create the strongest case possible with the evidence you have.

John (Jack) Zinda
Founder / CEO
Over 100 years of combined experience representing injured victims across the country.
Available 24 / 7|Free Consultation
Neil Solomon
Partner
Real results matter. We do not get paid unless we win your case.
Available 24 / 7|Free Consultation