An 18-wheeler, also known as a semi-trailer truck, a big rig, a tractor-trailer or a transfer truck is a vehicle consisting of a tractor (a towing engine) and a semi-trailer or several trailers carrying the freight. A semi-trailer is attached to the towing vehicle at a point that is forward of the rear-most axle of the towing unit. Most semi-trailers have from two to five axles for hauling heavy-duty material. The U.S. trucks are subject to a weight limit. 80,000 pounds is the maximum allowable truck weight without a permit. The operator of a truck is legally responsible and must make sure that the weight is distributed in a way that does not exceed 12,000lbs. on the steer axle, 34,000 lbs. on the drive axle, or 34,000 lbs. on the trailer axle. Such trucks can usually haul payloads of up to 50, 000 lbs. and configuration of payloads cannot exceed gross weight of 80,000 lbs.
When 18-wheeler trucks and passenger vehicles crash the results are usually major and in most cases cause devastating life-threatening injuries and even wrongful deaths. If you or a family member has suffered a personal injury or a tragic loss as a result of an accident or collision with an 18-wheeler truck, you and your family may be entitled to money damages. These damages can include the cost of medical expenses, burial costs, mental anguish, pain and suffering, lost wages, bodily impairment, future damages, future cost and property damage to your vehicle or personal property. In some cases punitive damages are available.
Hark & Hark, New Jersey truck crash attorneys, represents victims and the families of victims in trucking accidents. If you need advice or counsel on a trucking accident case or just have questions as to your legal rights call attorney Jeffery S. Hark today for a free consultation.