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Offices4608 Rye St Metairie, LA 70006
PRACTICE AREASBig Truck Accident – Slidell & Metairie
When an 18-wheeler or commercial truck is involved in an accident, the consequences are rarely minor.
Commercial trucks weigh tens of thousands of pounds. When they collide with passenger vehicles, the results are frequently catastrophic — life-altering injuries, destroyed vehicles, and financial devastation that can last for years. At the Law Offices of Frank J. D’Amico, Jr., we’ve handled truck accident cases throughout Louisiana for decades, from the Northshore to the Greater New Orleans area.
We handle all truck accident cases on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing unless we win.
Why Truck Accident Cases Are Different
Truck accident claims are significantly more complex than standard car accident cases. Multiple parties can be held liable — not just the driver, but the trucking company, the cargo loader, the maintenance provider, and even the truck manufacturer. Federal and state regulations govern the industry, and trucking companies have experienced legal teams working immediately to limit their exposure.
You need an attorney in your corner just as fast.
Common Causes of Commercial Truck Accidents
- Driver fatigue — federal hours-of-service rules exist for a reason; violations are common
- Distracted driving
- Speeding to meet delivery deadlines
- Driving under the influence
- Unsecured or overloaded cargo
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Inadequate driver training
18-Wheeler Accidents FAQs
What should I do immediately after a truck accident?
Seek medical attention first — even if you feel fine, some injuries aren’t immediately apparent. Document the scene with photos if you’re able. Get the truck driver’s information, the trucking company name, and any witness contacts. Report the accident to police. Do not give a recorded statement to any insurance company before speaking with an attorney.
Who can be held liable in a truck accident?
Truck accident liability frequently extends beyond the driver. Depending on the circumstances, you may have claims against the trucking company, the cargo loading company, the truck manufacturer, or the maintenance provider. An experienced attorney will investigate all potential sources of liability.
What compensation can I recover?
A truck accident settlement can include far more than medical bills. Compensation typically covers medical expenses and ongoing rehabilitation, lost wages and reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, property damage, and in cases of gross negligence, punitive damages.
How long do I have to file a claim in Louisiana?
Louisiana’s statute of limitations for personal injury is one year from the date of the accident. Do not wait — evidence disappears, witnesses become harder to locate, and trucking companies begin building their defense immediately.
How are truck accidents different from car accidents legally?
The regulatory complexity alone makes truck cases fundamentally different. Trucking companies must comply with federal FMCSA regulations covering driver hours, vehicle maintenance, weight limits, and more. Violations of these regulations can be powerful evidence of negligence — but identifying and preserving that evidence requires acting quickly.