Helping Victims of Tractor-Trailer, Semi-Truck, and 18-Wheeler Crashes Across Wisconsin
A collision with a large commercial truck can change your life in an instant. Unlike standard car accidents, crashes involving 18-wheelers, semi-trucks, and other heavy trucks often cause catastrophic injuries or fatalities due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, Jacobs Injury Law, S.C. is here to help. With over 20 years of experience, we have the knowledge and courtroom expertise to hold negligent trucking companies and drivers accountable. We are dedicated to helping injured victims recover the compensation they deserve.
No Fee Unless We Win or Settle Your Case!
(414) 306-8999
Why Choose Jacobs Injury Law?
Selecting the right lawyer to handle your case can significantly affect the results of your claim. At Jacobs Injury Law, S.C., we offer clients dedicated support, in-depth legal knowledge, and a strategic plan designed to achieve the highest possible compensation. Unlike some larger firms where clients may feel overlooked, we prioritize personalized representation so you receive the focused attention and guidance your case requires.
Our method for handling personal injury claims involves detailed investigation, strong negotiation tactics, and the readiness to take your case to trial when necessary. Because insurance companies recognize that we reject unfair settlements, we are able to negotiate from a position of strength. We know the financial strain and emotional stress a truck accident can cause, and our goal is to lessen that burden by recovering the compensation you need to move forward.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait—call us today at (414) 306-8999 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Why Truck Accident Cases Are Different
Truck accident claims are not just bigger car accident cases. They require a different approach, specialized legal knowledge, and a willingness to take on well-funded corporate defendants. Commercial trucks are governed by a complex set of federal and state regulations, including rules from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules govern driver hours, vehicle maintenance, licensing requirements, cargo limits, and more.
Unlike standard car crashes where liability is usually limited to the drivers involved, truck accident cases often involve multiple parties – each of whom may share responsibility for the crash. Moreover, evidence in these cases can disappear quickly. Trucking companies may erase or overwrite onboard data (such as black box records), or begin repairs on the vehicle before it can be inspected. That’s why early legal intervention is critical. At Jacobs Injury Law, we move quickly to secure critical evidence and build the strongest case possible for our clients.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Understanding the cause of a truck accident is essential to proving liability. Many of these crashes are the result of preventable human error, regulatory violations, or profit-driven negligence. Some of the most common causes include:
Driver Fatigue
Long-haul truck drivers are under constant pressure to meet tight delivery schedules. Although the FMCSA restricts the number of consecutive hours a driver can spend on the road, some companies encourage – or turn a blind eye to – violations. Fatigued drivers may suffer from slowed reaction times, impaired judgment, or even fall asleep behind the wheel.
Distracted Driving
Despite widespread public awareness campaigns, distracted driving continues to be a leading cause of crashes. For truck drivers, distractions can include texting, checking dispatch devices, eating, adjusting GPS systems, or reviewing manifests while driving.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Speed limits for trucks are often lower than those for passenger vehicles, especially on narrow or curved roads. When truck drivers exceed these limits or drive too fast for conditions – such as in rain, snow, or heavy traffic – the results can be disastrous.
Mechanical Failures and Poor Maintenance
Brakes, tires, steering systems, and trailer couplings are all critical components that must be inspected and maintained regularly. When trucking companies cut corners or neglect regular inspections, vehicles can malfunction in dangerous ways.
Improperly Loaded or Overloaded Cargo
Improper cargo securement can lead to shifting loads that cause rollovers or jackknifes. In some cases, cargo may even fall from the truck and strike other vehicles.
Drug or Alcohol Use
The use of stimulants to stay awake – such as amphetamines or cocaine – remains a documented problem among some commercial drivers. While rare, alcohol and illegal drug use still contribute to crashes in the trucking industry.
Who Can Be Held Responsible in a Truck Accident?
Truck accidents often involve multiple layers of liability. Identifying each potentially responsible party is critical to ensuring that victims are fully compensated. At Jacobs Injury Law, we conduct thorough investigations to determine all sources of legal and financial responsibility, which may include:
The Truck Driver
The driver may be held liable for speeding, fatigue, distraction, intoxication, or reckless operation of the vehicle. Logs, onboard diagnostics, and dashcam footage can be key to proving driver negligence.
The Trucking Company (Carrier)
Companies that hire drivers and operate fleets are responsible for ensuring proper training, maintenance, compliance with safety regulations, and monitoring hours of service. They may also be held liable under the legal principle of “vicarious liability” for the acts of their drivers.
The Cargo Loader or Shipping Contractor
In cases involving dropped loads, shifting cargo, or overloaded trailers, a third-party shipping contractor may bear responsibility. These companies must follow federal cargo securement rules and ensure that weight limits are not exceeded.
Maintenance Contractors or Repair Shops
If a truck was improperly repaired or maintained by a third-party mechanic or maintenance company, they may be liable for failures in critical vehicle systems.
Vehicle or Parts Manufacturers
In some crashes, defective brakes, tires, or coupling devices may be to blame. In those cases, product liability claims may be filed against the manufacturer or distributor of the defective part.
What to Do After a Truck Accident
If you’ve been involved in a collision with a commercial truck, the steps you take in the hours and days afterward can significantly affect your claim. Here’s what you should do:
- Call 911 Immediately
Always report a truck accident to law enforcement and request emergency medical assistance. A police report is a key piece of evidence and may include witness statements, preliminary fault assessments, and crash diagrams. - Seek Prompt Medical Attention
Even if you feel okay, get evaluated by a medical professional. Adrenaline can mask serious internal injuries such as head trauma, organ damage, or spinal injuries. - Document the Scene (if you are able)
Take photographs of vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, the door of the truck (to document any license or ownership information) and your injuries. Collect names and contact information from witnesses and other involved parties. - Do Not Speak to the Trucking Company’s Insurance Adjuster
You may be contacted quickly by the truck driver’s or trucking company’s insurance representative. Their goal is to minimize or deny your claim. Never give a recorded statement or accept a quick settlement without legal advice. - Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney
The sooner you reach out to an attorney, the sooner critical evidence can be preserved – such as vehicle logs, black box data, and dashcam recordings. At Jacobs Injury Law, we take immediate steps to protect your rights and investigate your case.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Truck accident injuries are often severe, and the financial toll can be overwhelming. We help our clients pursue full compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future medical needs
- Lost income and loss of future earning potential due to disability
- Pain and suffering, including physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Vehicle and property damage
- Wrongful death damages, including funeral costs, loss of companionship, and loss of income support for surviving family members
Because commercial trucks are typically covered by large insurance policies, the available compensation in truck accident cases is often significantly higher than in standard car accident claims. We work with medical experts, vocational specialists, and financial analysts to quantify the full impact of your injuries.
We Fight Back Against the Trucking Industry
Trucking companies have powerful defense teams and insurers on their side. Their goal is to limit liability and preserve profits. At Jacobs Injury Law, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. That approach gives us maximum leverage in negotiations and ensures we are always ready to advocate aggressively in court when needed. We have experience standing up to national carriers, insurance adjusters, and defense attorneys – and we won’t back down from a fight.
Contact Jacobs Injury Law Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a collision with a semi-truck, 18-wheeler, or commercial freight vehicle, time is of the essence. Evidence can disappear quickly, and the trucking company’s legal team is already working on a defense. Let the attorneys at Jacobs Injury Law stand up for your rights and help you pursue justice.
We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis – meaning you don’t pay us unless we win your case.
Call (414) 306-8999 or contact us online to speak with a Milwaukee truck accident lawyer today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents
What should I do if I’m contacted by the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?
You should avoid speaking to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster before consulting with an attorney. Anything you say can be used to minimize or deny your claim. These adjusters are trained to elicit statements that could shift blame or downplay your injuries. Politely decline to discuss the case and refer them to your lawyer at Jacobs Injury Law.
How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Wisconsin?
In most cases, Wisconsin law provides three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, there are exceptions, such as cases involving government-owned vehicles or minor children, which may have shorter or longer time limits. Because critical evidence can be lost early on, it’s best to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after the crash.
How are truck accidents investigated differently than car accidents?
Truck accidents involve multiple layers of investigation. In addition to reviewing police reports and witness statements, we gather:
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data (driver hours)
- Black box (ECM) data (speed, braking, engine function)
- Driver qualification and training records
- Maintenance and inspection logs
- Cargo manifests and loading records
- FMCSA safety violation history
We often work with accident reconstruction experts, engineers, and forensic analysts to build the strongest case possible.
Can I sue the trucking company as well as the driver?
Yes, in many cases. Under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior, employers can be held liable for the negligent acts of their drivers when those acts occur within the scope of employment. In addition, if the company hired an unqualified driver, failed to enforce hours-of-service rules, or neglected truck maintenance, it may face direct liability as well.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Wisconsin follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault – as long as your share of fault is less than 51%. However, your damages will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault and your damages totaled $100,000, you would still recover $80,000.
What types of injuries are most common in truck accidents?
Due to the sheer size and force of tractor-trailers, injuries in truck accidents tend to be more severe than in passenger vehicle collisions. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and crush injuries
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Burns and lacerations
- Wrongful death
Many victims require long-term medical care or are unable to return to their previous line of work. Our firm works to ensure all current and future damages are accounted for in your claim.
How much does it cost to hire Jacobs Injury Law for a truck accident case?
We handle truck accident cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no upfront costs and no attorney fees unless we recover money for you. Your initial consultation is always free, and we only get paid if you do. This allows you to get the legal representation you need without worrying about legal fees during an already difficult time.
Contact a Milwaukee Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At Jacobs Injury Law, S.C., we are committed to fighting for accident victims and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait – call us today at (414) 306-8999 for a free, no-obligation consultation, or contact us online. We have offices in Milwaukee and the Wisconsin Dells. We take cases state-wide.
You pay nothing unless we win your case. Take the first step toward justice today!