Being involved in a semi truck accident is one of the most dangerous and traumatic types of collisions on South Carolina roads. In 2022, South Carolina reported 135 fatal crashes involving large trucks, according to the NHTSA Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS). These incidents often involve serious injuries, massive property damage, and long legal battles.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a semi truck crash, here’s what you need to know to protect your health, your legal rights, and your future.
What Is Considered a Semi Truck Accident?
A semi truck accident involves large commercial vehicles like:
- 18 wheelers
- Tractor trailers
- Delivery trucks
- Box trucks
These trucks often weigh 20–30 times more than a passenger vehicle. When a truck crash occurs, the smaller vehicle usually takes the brunt of the damage.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in South Carolina
Several factors can lead to a serious truck crashes, including:
- Driver fatigue (especially due to long-haul schedules)
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Overloaded or improperly loaded cargo
- Mechanical failure or poor truck maintenance
- Distracted driving
- Poor weather and road conditions
According to statustics, South Carolina’s major highways like I-26, I-85, and I-95 are commonly used by freight trucks, these roads see a higher number of semi truck crashes.
What to Do Immediately After a Semi Truck Crash
If you’ve just been in a truck crash, follow these critical steps:
- Call 911 immediately – report injuries and request police presence.
- Seek medical attention – even if you feel fine, get checked.
- Document everything – take photos, write down what happened, and get witness contacts.
- Do not speak with the trucking company or their insurer – they may use your words against you.
- Contact an experienced attorney – to protect your rights and preserve evidence.
How Long Do Semi Truck Accident Cases Take?
Claims involving 18 wheeler accidents tend to take longer than regular car accidents because:
- Trucking companies have large insurance policies
- Multiple parties may be liable (driver, company, manufacturer)
- Federal regulations and logs must be reviewed
- Injuries are usually severe, which increases settlement complexity
While minor cases may settle in a few months, serious claims often take 6 months to 2 years or more. An experienced attorney can help speed up the process and keep your case on track.
Do I Really Need a Lawyer for a Truck Accident Case?
Absolutely. Trucking companies move fast to protect their interests. Having your own legal representation ensures that your rights are protected, your injuries are fully documented, and no money is left on the table.
At Spartan Law, we know what to look for and how to fight back. We investigate:
- Black box data
- Driver’s hour logs
- Truck maintenance records
- Past safety violations
- Surveillance and dashcam footage
This gives us leverage to negotiate or file suit on your behalf.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Semi Truck Crash?
Liability in semi truck accidents can be complex. It’s not just the driver. We often investigate:
- The trucking company
- The truck owner
- The maintenance contractor
- The manufacturer (if a defective part contributed)
- The cargo loading company
Establishing fault requires experience and deep investigation. That’s where Spartan Law comes in.
Common Injuries in Truck Accidents
Because of the size and weight of trucks, injuries tend to be severe, including:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Spinal cord damage
- Broken bones
- Internal bleeding
- Long-term disability or paralysis
If your loved one died in a semi truck crash, you may have a wrongful death claim.
Why Choose Spartan Law for Your Truck Accident Case?
- Local Experience : We handle truck accident cases across Greenville, Spartanburg, Charleston, and throughout South Carolina.
- Aggressive Representation : We stand up to large insurance companies.
- No Fees Unless We Win :You only pay if we recover compensation for you.
- Personalized Attention : We treat every case like it’s our only case.
Contact Us Today for Free Consultation
Even if you think your case is simple, it’s worth talking to a lawyer. Call 864-777-1000 to speak with Spartan Law today. The consultation is free, and we’ll make sure you’re fully informed before making any decisions.
