Amarillo 18 Wheeler Accident Attorney

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Although accidents of this type are less common, they still happen and when they do it is often times tragic. They can turn your entire life upside down and usually result in serious injury, catastrophic injuries, and totaled vehicles. An 18 wheeler accident is a type of commercial vehicle accident, which is often far more complex and severe than a typical car accident. Moreover, once the initial accident is over you have to face medical obligations, missed work, and sometimes other challenges which may arise.


After any commercial vehicle accident, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention and consider visiting the emergency room, even if injuries are not obvious.


If you have suffered from an accident involving an 18 wheeler due to driver negligence or the fault of others, you deserve full compensation for your troubles.

You will need adequate legal representation and should consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer who is skilled in dealing with accidents of this type.


Mike Warner is just that person; his years of experience have given him the expertise needed to take on cases of this type and severity. He is highly respected in the Amarillo Texas area and is ready to take on your case and get you the compensation you deserve.

Causes of 18 Wheeler Accidents


18 wheeler accidents, also known as semi truck accidents, are among the most serious incidents on Amarillo’s highways. With the Texas Panhandle serving as a major corridor for commercial vehicles, understanding the causes of these truck accidents is crucial for public safety and for those seeking fair compensation after a crash.

  • Fatigue

    One of the leading causes of truck accidents is driver fatigue. Truck drivers often face demanding schedules and long hours behind the wheel. Despite federal regulations that set strict hours of service limits, some trucking companies pressure drivers to meet tight deadlines, resulting in fatigued drivers with slower reaction times and impaired judgment. When a truck driver is too tired to operate a semi truck safely, the risk of a catastrophic accident increases dramatically.

  • Improper Loading

    Improper loading is another significant factor in trucking accidents. When cargo is not properly secured or a truck is overloaded, the stability of the semi truck is compromised. This can lead to rollovers, jackknife accidents, or loss of control, especially at high speeds or during sudden maneuvers. Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring that all loads are balanced and secured according to federal regulations, but service violations and inadequate training can lead to dangerous situations on the road.

  • Equipment Failure

    Equipment failure is a common cause of truck crashes as well. Semi trucks and other commercial vehicles require regular maintenance to operate safely. Neglecting routine inspections or repairs can result in brake failures, tire blowouts, or steering malfunctions—any of which can cause a devastating truck wreck. When a trucking company fails to maintain its fleet, it puts everyone on the road at risk.

  • Distracted Driving

    Distracted driving is an increasing concern in the trucking industry. Truck drivers may be tempted to use cell phones, GPS devices, or other electronics while driving, diverting their attention from the road. Even a momentary distraction can lead to a serious truck crash, especially when operating such large and heavy vehicles. Aggressive driving behaviors, such as speeding, tailgating, or unsafe lane changes, further increase the likelihood of an accident involving multiple vehicles and severe injuries.

  • Negligent Parties

    Negligent parties, including unqualified drivers and those with inadequate training, also contribute to the high rate of trucking accidents. Trucking companies have a legal obligation to hire qualified drivers and provide comprehensive training. Regulatory violations, such as failing to conduct background checks or ignoring hours of service rules, can result in unqualified drivers behind the wheel of commercial vehicles, endangering everyone on the road.

18 Wheeler Accident Compensation


Compensation in this type of accident is always at a maximum. Often times there are larger companies or corporations involved, and these truck accident cases require special attention due to the involvement of multiple parties, such as vehicle owners, drivers, transportation companies, and insurance providers, which increases complexity. The following are the types of damage to be compensated for:


  • Special Damages (Economic Damages) – These are quantifiable financial losses resulting from the accident. Economic damages can include time missed from work (lost wages), all medical bills, property damage sustained during the accident, and special income losses. Health insurance may cover initial medical expenses, but the legal process can help recover these costs from the responsible parties.


  • General Damages (Non-Economic Damages) – This refers to non-monetary losses that are not easily measured. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and debilitating or long-lasting medical conditions resulting from the accident.


  • Punitive Damages – In cases of severe negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be available to punish wrongdoers and deter future violations.


Seeking prompt medical treatment after an accident is crucial for both your health and to support your legal claim. Dealing with the insurance company is a key part of the compensation process, as claims and settlements are often negotiated with them.


Attorney fees are typically only owed if your attorney recovers compensation for you, and the firm may advance case costs, which are reimbursed from your recovery. The attorney’s goal in your truck accident case is to recover compensation for all damages you have suffered. Sometimes, taking legal action is necessary to secure full compensation and protect your rights.


The compensation is always dependent upon the severity of the accident and injuries sustained.

Types Of 18 Wheeler Accidents


Since these accidents happen fast and out of nowhere, there are several situations in which you may find yourself involved in a semi truck accident or 18 wheeler accident. The following are some different times you may face this type of accident:

  • Pile Ups

    An accident of this type usually happens on freeways and highways. It can be devastating when it does happen. They result in numerous vehicles and significant injuries varying in every type and degree.

  • Rear Ends

    Often times an 18 wheeler driver will fail to hit the brakes soon enough and careen into a stopped car. The results are catastrophic and can cause very serious injury like spinal damage or traumatic brain injuries.

  • Head On Collision

    This one of the worst case scenarios when involved in an accident, the car on the receiving end is rarely recognizable and the injuries sustained are often times the worst types, sometimes even resulting in paralysis and death.

  • T-Bone

    This can also happen at an intersection when a massive semi runs a stop sign or red light. The results are similar to a head on collision in the degree of severity, and there are often multiple vehicles and passengers affected by the accident, with severe resulting injuries.

Why The Warner Law Firm?


If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a 18 wheeler accident, it’s essential to work with an experienced personal injury attorney who understands the complexities of 18 wheeler truck accident cases. Amarillo truck accident lawyers with a proven track record can help you collect evidence, identify all responsible parties, and navigate the legal process to recover maximum compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Dealing with insurance companies and multiple defendants can be overwhelming, but a skilled truck accident lawyer will fight for your legal rights and ensure you receive the fair compensation you deserve.



Understanding the causes of 18 wheeler accidents is the first step toward protecting yourself and your loved ones. If an accident occurred due to driver fatigue, improper loading, equipment failure, or any other form of negligence, don’t hesitate to seek a free consultation with Mike Warner of the Warner Law Firm a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer in Amarillo. Your path to financial recovery and justice starts with the right legal support.