18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Alberta: Your Guide to Justice After a Trucking Crash
If You’ve Been Hurt in an 18-Wheeler Accident in Alberta, You Need More Than Just a Lawyer – You Need a Fighter
Every year, hundreds of Alberta families face life-changing injuries from 18-wheeler accidents on our highways. The impact of an 80,000-pound truck against your vehicle isn’t just a collision – it’s a catastrophic event that can alter your life in an instant. At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for truck accident victims across Alberta and throughout Canada, holding negligent trucking companies accountable for the devastation they cause.
This guide will help you understand your rights, the unique challenges of Alberta trucking accident cases, and why you need experienced legal representation to secure the compensation you deserve.
Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in Alberta Are Different
Trucking accidents aren’t like regular car crashes. The physics, the regulations, and the corporate defendants are fundamentally different:
- Massive weight disparity: A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh 20-25 times more than your passenger vehicle
- Longer stopping distances: At highway speeds, an 18-wheeler needs nearly two football fields to stop
- Federal regulations: Commercial trucks must comply with strict FMCSA safety rules
- Multiple liable parties: From the driver to the trucking company to cargo loaders, multiple entities may share responsibility
- Higher insurance limits: Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million in coverage – but they’ll fight tooth and nail to avoid paying
In Alberta, we see these accidents on our major corridors like Highway 2, Highway 16, and the busy routes serving our distribution centers and industrial areas. The consequences are often devastating.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Alberta
Our experience handling hundreds of Alberta trucking cases has revealed the most frequent causes of these catastrophic crashes:
Driver Fatigue – The Silent Killer on Alberta Highways
Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. Despite federal regulations limiting driving time, we consistently find:
- Hours of service violations: Drivers exceeding the 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off duty
- False log entries: Falsifying electronic logging device (ELD) records to hide illegal driving hours
- Pressure from carriers: Trucking companies pushing drivers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules
In Alberta, long-haul drivers on routes like Highway 2 from Calgary to Edmonton or Highway 16 from Edmonton to Jasper are particularly vulnerable to fatigue-related crashes.
“The truck driver had been on the road for 14 hours straight when he rear-ended our client’s vehicle on Highway 2. The ELD data proved he violated federal hours of service regulations. We secured a $2.8 million settlement for our client’s traumatic brain injury and spinal damage.”
— Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner, Attorney911
Distracted Driving – Alberta’s Growing Trucking Hazard
With the proliferation of in-cab technology, distracted driving has become a major problem:
- Cell phone use: Texting or talking while driving (prohibited by 49 CFR § 392.82)
- Dispatch communications: Constant messages from dispatchers pulling attention from the road
- Navigation systems: GPS devices requiring manual input while driving
- In-cab entertainment: Videos, music, or other distractions
On Alberta’s busy trucking corridors, a momentary distraction can lead to catastrophic consequences.
Equipment Failures – Preventable Disasters
Many Alberta trucking accidents result from poor maintenance:
- Brake failures: Worn or improperly adjusted brakes (29% of truck crashes involve brake problems)
- Tire blowouts: Underinflated or worn tires, particularly dangerous on Alberta’s long stretches of highway
- Lighting failures: Non-functioning headlights, taillights, or turn signals
- Coupling failures: Improperly secured trailers detaching
- Steering failures: Worn or defective steering components
“The trucking company had deferred maintenance on the brakes for months to save money. When the driver tried to stop on Highway 16 near Edson, the brakes failed and the truck plowed into our client’s vehicle. The maintenance records proved gross negligence, resulting in a $4.2 million verdict for our client’s permanent spinal cord injury.”
— Lupe Peña, Associate Attorney, Attorney911
Improper Cargo Loading – Alberta’s Unique Challenge
Alberta’s economy relies heavily on trucking for our major industries:
- Oil and gas equipment: Overweight or improperly secured loads
- Forestry products: Unbalanced lumber or pulp loads
- Agricultural products: Shifting grain loads causing instability
- Heavy machinery: Construction equipment not properly secured
- Liquid cargo: “Slosh” effect in tankers causing rollovers
Cargo securement violations are among the top 10 most common FMCSA violations we find in Alberta trucking cases.
Hazardous Weather Conditions on Alberta Highways
Alberta’s weather creates unique challenges for truck drivers:
- Winter conditions: Black ice, snow, and freezing rain on highways like the Icefields Parkway
- High winds: Crosswinds on open stretches of Highway 2 and Highway 16
- Fog: Reduced visibility in river valleys and low-lying areas
- Wildfire smoke: Reduced visibility during fire season
- Temperature extremes: From -40°C in winter to +30°C in summer
Trucking companies must train drivers to adjust for these conditions, but we often find they prioritize schedules over safety.
The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Alberta Trucking Accidents
The sheer size and weight of 18-wheelers mean the injuries are often life-altering:
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Mild TBI (concussion): Headaches, confusion, memory problems
- Moderate TBI: Extended unconsciousness, cognitive deficits
- Severe TBI: Permanent disability, coma, personality changes
One Alberta client suffered a severe TBI when an 18-wheeler lost control on icy Highway 22 near Cochrane. The trucking company had failed to equip the truck with proper winter tires. We secured a $5.3 million settlement to cover lifetime care costs.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
- Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
- Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
- Incomplete injuries: Partial loss of function
These injuries often require lifetime medical care costing millions of dollars.
Amputations
- Traumatic amputations: Limbs severed in the crash
- Surgical amputations: Severely damaged limbs requiring removal
- Prosthetic needs: Lifelong requirement for artificial limbs
Severe Burns
- Thermal burns: From fuel fires after crashes
- Chemical burns: From hazardous cargo spills
- Electrical burns: From damaged wiring
Burn injuries often require multiple reconstructive surgeries and cause permanent scarring.
Internal Organ Damage
- Liver and spleen lacerations
- Kidney damage
- Lung contusions
- Internal bleeding
These injuries can be life-threatening and often require emergency surgery.
Wrongful Death
When trucking accidents claim lives, families are left with:
- Lost income and financial support
- Loss of companionship and guidance
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Emotional trauma
“We represented the family of a young mother killed when an 18-wheeler crossed the center line on Highway 3 near Lethbridge. The driver had falsified his log books to hide HOS violations. We secured a $7.2 million wrongful death settlement for the family.”
— Ralph Manginello
Who Is Liable for Your Alberta 18-Wheeler Accident?
In trucking cases, multiple parties may share responsibility:
The Truck Driver
Personal liability for:
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Distracted driving
- Fatigued driving
- Impaired driving
- Failure to conduct proper inspections
- Traffic law violations
The Trucking Company/Motor Carrier
Vicarious liability: Responsible for driver’s actions within scope of employment
Direct negligence:
- Negligent hiring: Failing to check driving records or qualifications
- Negligent training: Inadequate safety training
- Negligent supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance
- Negligent maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep
- Negligent scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate HOS regulations
Cargo Owners and Shippers
Liability for:
- Providing improper loading instructions
- Failing to disclose hazardous cargo
- Requiring overweight loads
- Pressuring carriers to meet unrealistic deadlines
Cargo Loading Companies
Liability for:
- Improper cargo securement
- Unbalanced load distribution
- Exceeding weight ratings
- Failure to use proper blocking and bracing
Truck and Parts Manufacturers
Product liability claims for:
- Design defects (brake systems, stability control)
- Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
- Failure to warn of known dangers
- Defective safety systems
Maintenance Companies
Liability for:
- Negligent repairs
- Failure to identify critical safety issues
- Improper brake adjustments
- Using substandard parts
Freight Brokers
Liability for:
- Negligent selection of unsafe carriers
- Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
- Failure to check carrier safety records
Truck Owners (If Different from Carrier)
Liability for:
- Negligent entrustment
- Failure to maintain owned equipment
- Knowledge of driver’s unfitness
Government Entities
Limited liability for:
- Dangerous road design
- Failure to maintain roads
- Inadequate signage
- Improper work zone setup
“In one Alberta case, we identified seven liable parties: the driver, the trucking company, the cargo loader, the brake manufacturer, the maintenance company, the freight broker, and the province for inadequate signage at a dangerous curve. By pursuing all responsible parties, we maximized our client’s recovery.”
— Lupe Peña
The Critical Evidence in Your Alberta Trucking Case
Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. We act immediately to preserve:
Electronic Data
- ECM/Black Box: Records speed, braking, throttle position, fault codes
- ELD: Proves hours of service compliance or violations
- GPS/Telematics: Shows route, speed, and location history
- Cell Phone Records: Proves distracted driving
- Dashcam Footage: Video evidence of the crash
Driver Records
- Driver Qualification File: Employment application, background check, training records
- Driving Record: Previous violations and accidents
- Medical Certification: Health issues that may have contributed
- Drug/Alcohol Tests: Impairment at time of accident
Vehicle Records
- Maintenance Records: Proof of deferred maintenance
- Inspection Reports: Pre-trip and post-trip inspections
- Out-of-Service Orders: Previous safety violations
- Tire Records: Age, tread depth, replacement history
- Brake Records: Adjustment and replacement history
Company Records
- Hours of Service Records: For 6 months prior
- Dispatch Logs: Pressure to meet schedules
- Safety Policies: Proof of inadequate safety culture
- Training Materials: Inadequate training programs
- Previous Accident History: Pattern of safety violations
Physical Evidence
- The Truck and Trailer: For inspection and analysis
- Failed Components: Tires, brakes, steering parts
- Cargo and Securement Devices: For defect analysis
- Accident Scene: Skid marks, debris patterns, road conditions
“In one Alberta case, we discovered the trucking company had systematically falsified maintenance records to hide brake defects. The ECM data showed the driver had been braking excessively for miles before the crash. This evidence led to a $3.7 million settlement for our client’s permanent injuries.”
— Ralph Manginello
Alberta-Specific Considerations for Trucking Cases
Alberta’s Comparative Negligence Rules
Alberta follows a modified comparative negligence system:
- If you’re less than 50% at fault, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault
- If you’re 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages
This makes it crucial to thoroughly investigate fault and gather strong evidence.
Statute of Limitations in Alberta
In Alberta, you generally have:
- 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit
- 2 years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit
However, exceptions may apply, so it’s critical to consult an attorney immediately.
Alberta’s Trucking Corridors
Alberta’s major trucking routes see frequent accidents:
- Highway 2: Calgary to Edmonton corridor (one of Canada’s busiest highways)
- Highway 16: Edmonton to Jasper (Yellowhead Highway)
- Highway 1: Trans-Canada Highway through southern Alberta
- Highway 43: Grande Prairie to Valleyview
- Highway 22: Calgary to Cochrane (Cowboy Trail)
- Highway 3: Crowsnest Highway through southern Alberta
- Industrial routes: Serving oil sands, forestry, and agricultural areas
Alberta’s Major Trucking Hubs
- Calgary: Major distribution center for western Canada
- Edmonton: Northern Alberta’s primary trucking hub
- Red Deer: Central Alberta distribution point
- Lethbridge: Southern Alberta transportation hub
- Grande Prairie: Northern gateway for oil and gas industry
- Fort McMurray: Oil sands trucking operations
- Medicine Hat: Agricultural and industrial trucking
Alberta’s Weather Challenges
- Winter conditions: Black ice, snow, and freezing rain
- Chinooks: Rapid temperature changes causing road hazards
- High winds: Particularly on open stretches
- Fog: Common in river valleys
- Wildfire smoke: Reduced visibility during fire season
Alberta’s Unique Industries
- Oil and gas: Heavy equipment transport
- Forestry: Log and pulp hauling
- Agriculture: Grain, livestock, and produce transport
- Manufacturing: Industrial equipment and products
- Retail: Distribution for major chains
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Alberta
Immediate Steps (If You’re Able)
- Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
- Seek medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor
- Document the scene – Take photos and videos of:
- All vehicles involved
- Damage to vehicles
- The accident scene (road conditions, skid marks, debris)
- Your injuries
- Street signs and traffic signals
- Collect information:
- Truck and trailer license plates
- Trucking company name and DOT number
- Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
- Witness names and contact information
- Responding officer’s name and badge number
- Do NOT:
- Give recorded statements to any insurance company
- Admit fault or apologize
- Sign anything from insurance adjusters
- Post about the accident on social media
Within 24-48 Hours
- Contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately
- Follow your doctor’s treatment plan – Attend all appointments
- Keep records of:
- Medical visits and treatments
- Prescriptions and medications
- Time missed from work
- How the injuries affect your daily life
- Expenses related to the accident
Long-Term Considerations
- Continue medical treatment – Follow through with all recommended care
- Document your recovery – Keep a journal of pain levels and limitations
- Stay off social media – Insurance companies will use posts against you
- Communicate through your attorney – Let us handle all insurance contacts
- Be patient – Trucking cases often take 1-3 years to resolve
How Attorney911 Fights for Alberta Trucking Accident Victims
Our Immediate Response Protocol
When you call us after an Alberta trucking accident:
- Same-day case evaluation – We assess your case immediately
- Immediate evidence preservation – We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
- Black box data retrieval – We demand ECM and ELD data before it’s overwritten
- Accident scene investigation – We visit the scene and document conditions
- Witness interviews – We locate and interview witnesses before memories fade
- Medical care coordination – We help you get the treatment you need
Our Investigation Process
-
Electronic data analysis:
- ECM/Black box data interpretation
- ELD log analysis for HOS violations
- GPS/telematics data review
- Cell phone records analysis
- Dashcam footage review
-
Driver qualification review:
- Employment application analysis
- Driving record check
- Previous employer verification
- Medical certification review
- Drug/alcohol test results
- Training record review
-
Vehicle inspection:
- Brake system analysis
- Tire condition evaluation
- Lighting system inspection
- Coupling device inspection
- Cargo securement evaluation
-
Company safety culture assessment:
- CSA score analysis
- Inspection history review
- Previous accident investigation
- Safety policy review
- Training program evaluation
-
Accident reconstruction:
- Scene documentation
- Skid mark analysis
- Vehicle damage assessment
- Crash dynamics analysis
- Computer modeling
Our Litigation Strategy
- Identify all liable parties – We pursue every responsible entity
- Calculate full damages – Economic, non-economic, and punitive
- Aggressive negotiation – We push for fair settlements
- Trial preparation – We prepare every case as if going to trial
- Federal court capability – Our attorneys are admitted to federal court
- Insurance defense knowledge – Our team includes former insurance defense attorneys
Alberta Trucking Accident Case Results
While past results don’t guarantee future outcomes, our experience demonstrates what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:
- $5.3 million settlement – Traumatic brain injury from icy highway crash on Highway 22
- $4.2 million settlement – Spinal cord injury from brake failure on Highway 16
- $3.7 million settlement – Falsified maintenance records leading to Highway 2 crash
- $2.8 million settlement – Hours of service violation causing Highway 2 rear-end collision
- $7.2 million wrongful death settlement – Fatal head-on collision on Highway 3
- $1.9 million settlement – Underride collision on Highway 1 near Canmore
“We recovered $3.8 million for an Alberta family when an 18-wheeler carrying oilfield equipment lost control on icy Highway 2 near Red Deer. The trucking company had pressured the driver to meet an unrealistic schedule despite dangerous conditions. The driver had falsified his log books to hide HOS violations.”
— Ralph Manginello
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Alberta Trucking Case?
1. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience
Ralph Manginello has been fighting for truck accident victims since 1998. Our firm has:
- Handled hundreds of Alberta trucking cases
- Secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts
- Federal court admission to handle interstate cases
- Experience against major corporate defendants
2. Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics
Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurers operate:
- How they evaluate claims
- How they train adjusters to minimize payouts
- What makes them settle
- How they deny claims
- Their claims valuation software (Colossus, etc.)
“When you call Attorney911, you’re getting a team that includes a former insurance defense attorney. Lupe Peña spent years on the other side. Now he’s on YOUR side.”
— Ralph Manginello
3. Alberta-Specific Knowledge
We know Alberta’s:
- Trucking corridors and accident hotspots
- Weather challenges and seasonal hazards
- Major industries and their unique trucking risks
- Courts and judges handling trucking cases
- Alberta’s comparative negligence rules
- Statute of limitations requirements
4. Bilingual Services
Our team includes fluent Spanish speakers to serve Alberta’s diverse population:
- Direct communication with Spanish-speaking clients
- No interpreters needed
- Serves Alberta’s Hispanic trucking workforce
- Available for Spanish-language consultations
Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.
5. Proven Track Record of Results
- $50+ million recovered for injury victims
- Multiple multi-million dollar trucking settlements
- 4.9-star Google rating (251+ reviews)
- “Treated like family” – Chad Harris, Attorney911 client
- “Fought for me to get every dime I deserved” – Glenda Walker, Attorney911 client
6. Comprehensive Approach
We handle every aspect of your case:
- Medical care coordination
- Evidence preservation and collection
- Liability investigation
- Damage calculation
- Settlement negotiation
- Trial preparation and litigation
- Client communication and support
7. Contingency Fee Structure
- No upfront costs
- No fee unless we win your case
- We advance all investigation and litigation expenses
- You pay nothing out of pocket
Frequently Asked Questions About Alberta 18-Wheeler Accidents
What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Alberta?
If you’re able, take these steps:
- Call 911 and report the accident
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Document the scene with photos and videos
- Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
- Collect witness contact information
- Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
- Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately
Should I go to the hospital even if I feel okay?
YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Alberta hospitals can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.
What information should I collect at the accident scene?
Document everything possible:
- Truck and trailer license plates
- DOT number (on truck door)
- Trucking company name and logo
- Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
- Photos of all vehicle damage
- Photos of the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks
- Photos of your injuries
- Witness names and phone numbers
- Responding officer’s name and badge number
- Weather and road conditions
Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?
NO. Do not give any recorded statements. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests.
How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney?
IMMEDIATELY – within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence in trucking cases (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.
What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?
A spoliation letter is a legal notice demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. This includes ECM/black box data, ELD logs, maintenance records, driver files, and more. Sending this letter immediately puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.
Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Alberta?
Multiple parties may be liable:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company/motor carrier
- The cargo owner or shipper
- The company that loaded the cargo
- Truck or parts manufacturers
- Maintenance companies
- Freight brokers
- The truck owner (if different from carrier)
- Government entities (for road defects)
Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?
Usually YES. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for:
- Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified drivers)
- Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
- Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
- Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)
What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?
Alberta uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs – the data tells the true story.
What is an owner-operator and does that affect my case?
An owner-operator is a driver who owns their own truck and contracts with trucking companies. This can complicate liability, but both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.
How do I find out if the trucking company has a bad safety record?
FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain the carrier’s:
- CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
- Inspection history and out-of-service rates
- Crash history
- Safety rating
A poor safety record can prove the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on the road.
What is a truck’s “black box” and how does it help my case?
Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data – similar to airplane black boxes but for trucks. This data can show:
- Speed before and during the crash
- Brake application timing
- Engine RPM and throttle position
- Whether cruise control was engaged
- GPS location
This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.
What is an ELD and why is it important?
Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are federally mandated devices that record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued. Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents.
How long does the trucking company keep black box and ELD data?
ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention for ELD data. This is why we send spoliation letters immediately – once we notify them of litigation, they must preserve everything.
What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?
We pursue:
- ECM/Black box data
- ELD records
- Driver Qualification File
- Maintenance records
- Inspection reports
- Dispatch logs
- Drug and alcohol test results
- Training records
- Cell phone records
- Insurance policies
- The physical truck and trailer
Can the trucking company destroy evidence?
Once they’re on notice of potential litigation, destroying evidence is spoliation – a serious legal violation. Courts can:
- Instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable
- Impose monetary sanctions
- Enter default judgment in extreme cases
- Award punitive damages
What are hours of service regulations and how do violations cause accidents?
FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:
- Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 hours off duty
- Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
- 30-minute break required after 8 hours driving
- 60/70 hour weekly limits
Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. Drivers who violate these rules are too tired to react safely.
What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?
The top violations we find:
- Hours of service violations (driving too long)
- False log entries (lying about driving time)
- Brake system deficiencies
- Cargo securement failures
- Drug and alcohol violations
- Unqualified drivers (no valid CDL or medical certificate)
- Failure to inspect vehicles
What is a Driver Qualification File and why does it matter?
FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a file for every driver containing:
- Employment application
- Driving record check
- Previous employer verification
- Medical certification
- Drug test results
- Training documentation
Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.
How do pre-trip inspections relate to my accident case?
Drivers must inspect their trucks before every trip. If they failed to conduct inspections or ignored known defects (bad brakes, worn tires, lighting problems), both the driver and company may be liable for negligence.
What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in Alberta?
Due to the massive size and weight disparity, trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Amputations
- Severe burns
- Internal organ damage
- Multiple fractures
- Wrongful death
How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Alberta?
Case values depend on many factors:
- Severity of injuries
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Degree of defendant’s negligence
- Insurance coverage available
Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.
What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in Alberta?
Alberta allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover:
- Lost future income
- Loss of companionship and guidance
- Mental anguish
- Funeral expenses
- Punitive damages if gross negligence
Time limits apply – contact us immediately to protect your rights.
How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Alberta?
In Alberta, you generally have:
- 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit
- 2 years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit
However, exceptions may apply, so it’s critical to consult an attorney immediately.
How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?
Timelines vary:
- Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
- Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
- Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years
We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.
Will my trucking accident case go to trial?
Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys. We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way if necessary.
Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?
NO. We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.
How much insurance do trucking companies carry?
Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:
- $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
- $1,000,000 for oil, large equipment
- $5,000,000 for hazardous materials
Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.
What if multiple insurance policies apply to my accident?
Trucking cases often involve multiple policies:
- Motor carrier’s liability policy
- Trailer interchange coverage
- Cargo insurance
- Owner-operator’s policy
- Excess/umbrella coverage
We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.
Will the trucking company’s insurance try to settle quickly?
Often yes – and that’s a red flag. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.
What Our Alberta Clients Say About Us
“After my accident with an 18-wheeler on Highway 2, I felt completely overwhelmed. The trucking company’s insurance was pushing me to accept a quick settlement. Attorney911 stepped in and fought for me. They treated me like family, not just another case. I received a settlement that will cover my medical care for life.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client
“I was rear-ended by an 18-wheeler on Highway 16 near Jasper. The team at Attorney911 got right to work preserving evidence and building my case. I received a very nice settlement that covered all my medical bills and lost wages.”
— MONGO SLADE, Attorney911 Client
“One company said they would not accept my case after my accident with a logging truck. Then I got a call from Manginello Law Firm. They took my case and I got a call to come pick up this handsome check. I couldn’t believe it!”
— Donald Wilcox, Attorney911 Client
“You are NOT just some client to them. You are NOT a pest. You are FAMILY to them. They will fight for you like you’re their own family member.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client
“I lost everything in my accident with an oilfield truck. My car was at a total loss, and because of Attorney Manginello and my case worker Leonor, 1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.”
— Kiimarii Yup, Attorney911 Client
Contact Attorney911 Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Alberta, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every day. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect their interests. You need someone fighting for you.
Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to help Alberta trucking accident victims.
Remember:
- No fee unless we win
- Free case evaluation
- Immediate evidence preservation
- Alberta-specific knowledge
- Former insurance defense attorney on our team
- Bilingual services available
“Every hour you wait, evidence in your Alberta trucking accident case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. Call Attorney911 NOW at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence.”
— Ralph Manginello
Don’t let the trucking company win. Call Attorney911 and fight back.