Ohio 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers: Holding Trucking Companies Accountable

Every year, thousands of Ohio families are devastated by catastrophic 18-wheeler accidents on our highways. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in Ohio, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a team of Ohio trucking accident specialists who understand the complex federal regulations, aggressive insurance tactics, and unique challenges of holding trucking companies accountable.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for Ohio truck accident victims for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. We know Ohio’s trucking corridors—from the busy I-70/I-71 interchange in Columbus to the distribution hubs in Cleveland and Cincinnati—and we know how to build cases that win.

Why Ohio Trucking Accidents Are Different

Trucking accidents in Ohio aren’t like regular car accidents. The physics alone make them more dangerous:

• A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—20-25 times more than your passenger car
• At highway speeds, an 80,000-pound truck carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a car
• A truck traveling at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields
• Ohio’s winter weather conditions on I-80 and I-76 create additional hazards for truck drivers

These factors explain why trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries or wrongful death. The Ohio Department of Transportation reports that large truck crashes account for a disproportionate number of fatal accidents on our highways.

The Most Dangerous Ohio Trucking Corridors

Ohio sits at the crossroads of America’s freight network, with several high-risk trucking corridors:

• I-70/I-71 Corridor (Columbus): The interchange at Columbus is one of the busiest in the Midwest, handling massive volumes of east-west and north-south freight. This area sees frequent jackknife accidents and rear-end collisions.

• I-75 (Cincinnati to Toledo): This major north-south route connects to Canada and sees heavy truck traffic year-round. The stretch through Dayton and Toledo is particularly dangerous.

• I-80/I-90 (Ohio Turnpike): The Ohio Turnpike carries transcontinental freight and is notorious for winter weather accidents. The toll road’s long straight stretches can lead to driver fatigue.

• I-76 (Akron to Youngstown): This corridor serves the manufacturing and distribution centers of Northeast Ohio and sees significant truck traffic.

• Rickenbacker Air Cargo Hub (Columbus): One of the fastest-growing cargo hubs in the country, this area sees concentrated truck traffic and unique cargo-related hazards.

Our attorneys understand the specific dangers of these corridors and how to investigate accidents that occur on them.

Common Causes of Ohio 18-Wheeler Accidents

Ohio trucking accidents happen for predictable reasons—most of which violate federal safety regulations:

1. Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)

Federal regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

• Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
• 30-minute break required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70 hour weekly limits

Yet fatigue remains a leading cause of Ohio trucking accidents. In our cases, we routinely find:

• Drivers exceeding 11-hour driving limits
• Falsified electronic logging device (ELD) records
• Pressure from dispatchers to meet unrealistic deadlines
• Drivers working second jobs during off-duty periods

Case Example: We represented an Ohio family whose loved one was killed when a fatigued truck driver fell asleep at the wheel on I-70 near Cambridge. ELD records showed the driver had been on duty for 18 consecutive hours. We secured a multi-million dollar settlement.

2. Improper Maintenance and Brake Failures

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. Ohio’s hilly terrain and winter conditions make proper brake maintenance especially critical.

Common violations we find:

• Worn brake pads not replaced
• Improper brake adjustments
• Air brake system leaks
• Deferred maintenance to save costs
• Failure to conduct pre-trip inspections

FMCSA Requirement (49 CFR § 396.3): “Every motor carrier and intermodal equipment provider must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all motor vehicles subject to its control.”

3. Cargo Securement Failures

Improperly secured cargo causes rollovers, jackknife accidents, and road debris hazards. Ohio’s agricultural and manufacturing industries create unique cargo securement challenges.

FMCSA Requirements (49 CFR § 393.100-136):

• Cargo must be secured to prevent shifting that affects vehicle stability
• Tiedowns must withstand 0.8 g deceleration forward, 0.5 g lateral and rearward
• Minimum number of tiedowns based on cargo length and weight

We’ve handled cases involving:

• Shifting steel coils on flatbed trailers
• Agricultural equipment that became unsecured
• Liquid cargo “slosh” causing rollovers
• Debris falling from unsecured loads

4. Distracted Driving

Ohio law prohibits texting while driving for all motorists, but truck drivers face additional federal restrictions.

FMCSA Prohibition (49 CFR § 392.82):

• No hand-held mobile phone use
• No reaching for phone in manner requiring leaving seated position
• No texting while driving

Despite these rules, we see cases where:

• Drivers were texting at the time of the crash
• Dispatchers were communicating via text or app
• Drivers were using GPS or other in-cab electronics

5. Speeding and Reckless Driving

Ohio’s speed limits vary by location, but truck drivers must always adjust for conditions. We see cases where:

• Drivers exceed posted speed limits
• Drivers fail to reduce speed for weather conditions
• Drivers follow too closely (violating 49 CFR § 392.11)
• Drivers make unsafe lane changes

6. Driver Qualification Violations

Trucking companies must maintain Driver Qualification Files (DQF) for each driver. We frequently find:

• Missing or incomplete employment applications
• No background check of driving record
• No verification of previous employment
• Expired medical certifications
• No drug and alcohol test records

FMCSA Requirement (49 CFR § 391.51): “A motor carrier must maintain a driver qualification file for each driver it employs.”

7. Underride Collisions

Ohio sees too many underride accidents where passenger vehicles slide underneath trailers. These accidents are often fatal or catastrophic.

Federal Requirements:

• Rear impact guards must be installed on trailers manufactured after 1/26/1998
• Guards must prevent underride at 30 mph impact
• NO federal requirement for side underride guards (despite safety advocates’ efforts)

We’ve represented families in underride cases where:

• Rear guards were missing or improperly installed
• Side underride occurred during lane changes or turns
• Trailers had inadequate reflective markings

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Ohio Trucking Cases

The size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles means Ohio trucking accidents often result in life-altering injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Ohio’s trauma centers see severe TBI cases from trucking accidents. Symptoms range from mild concussions to permanent vegetative states.

Ohio TBI Resources:

• Ohio Brain Injury Program (Ohio Department of Health)
• Ohio Valley Center for Brain Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation
• Brain Injury Association of Ohio

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Ohio’s rehabilitation centers treat many spinal cord injury patients from trucking accidents:

• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
• Incomplete Injuries: Some nerve function remains

Ohio Spinal Cord Injury Resources:

• Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
• MetroHealth Rehabilitation Institute of Ohio
• Drake Center (Cincinnati)

Amputations

Crushing injuries often require surgical amputations. Ohio’s prosthetic centers help patients adapt:

• Upper limb amputations
• Lower limb amputations
• Multiple amputations

Severe Burns

Ohio’s burn centers treat trucking accident victims from:

• Fuel tank ruptures and fires
• Hazardous material spills
• Electrical fires
• Friction burns

Ohio Burn Centers:

• Ohio State University Burn Center (Columbus)
• MetroHealth Burn Center (Cleveland)
• Shriners Hospitals for Children (Cincinnati)

Internal Organ Damage

Trucking accidents often cause:

• Liver and spleen lacerations
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusions
• Internal bleeding

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents kill Ohio residents, surviving family members can pursue wrongful death claims. Ohio law allows recovery for:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship)
• Mental anguish
• Funeral expenses
• Pain and suffering before death

Who’s Really Responsible? Multiple Parties Can Be Liable

Ohio trucking accident cases often involve multiple liable parties. We investigate all potentially responsible entities:

1. The Truck Driver

• Direct negligence (speeding, distraction, impairment)
• Violations of FMCSA regulations
• Failure to conduct pre-trip inspections

2. The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

Vicarious Liability: Employers are responsible for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment.

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent Hiring: Hiring unqualified or dangerous drivers
• Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
• Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance
• Negligent Maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate HOS rules

3. Cargo Owners and Shippers

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous cargo
• Requiring overweight loads
• Pressuring carriers to expedite shipments

4. Cargo Loading Companies

• Improper cargo securement
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Failure to use proper blocking and bracing

5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

• Defective brake systems
• Defective stability control systems
• Defective underride guards
• Manufacturing defects

6. Parts Manufacturers

• Defective tires causing blowouts
• Defective steering components
• Defective lighting systems

7. Maintenance Companies

• Negligent repairs
• Failure to identify safety issues
• Using substandard parts
• Improper brake adjustments

8. Freight Brokers

• Negligent selection of unsafe carriers
• Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
• Failure to check carrier safety records

9. Truck Owners (If Different from Carrier)

• Negligent entrustment of vehicle
• Failure to maintain owned equipment

10. Government Entities

• Dangerous road design
• Failure to maintain roads
• Inadequate signage
• Improper work zone setup

Ohio Government Notice Requirements: Claims against government entities in Ohio have strict notice requirements and shorter deadlines. You must act quickly to preserve these claims.

The Critical Evidence in Ohio Trucking Cases

Evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. Ohio trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours. If you don’t act fast, critical evidence will be lost.

Electronic Data (Must Be Preserved Immediately)

• ECM/Black Box Data: Can be overwritten in 30 days
• ELD Records: May be retained only 6 months
• GPS/Telematics Data: Shows route, speed, stops
• Dashcam Footage: Often deleted within 7-14 days
• Cell Phone Records: Prove distracted driving
• Dispatch Communications: Show schedule pressure

Our Protocol: We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained to preserve this evidence.

Driver Records

• Driver Qualification File: Employment application, background check, training records
• Hours of Service Records: ELD data, paper logs (if applicable)
• Drug and Alcohol Test Results: Pre-employment and random testing
• Previous Employment History: 3-year driving record investigation
• Medical Certification: Current DOT medical examiner’s certificate

Vehicle Records

• Maintenance Records: Inspection and repair documentation
• Inspection Reports: Pre-trip, post-trip, annual inspections
• Out-of-Service Orders: Previous violations and repairs
• Tire Records: Purchase, rotation, and replacement history
• Brake Adjustment Records: Critical for brake failure cases

Company Records

• Safety Policies and Procedures: Training materials, safety manuals
• Dispatch Logs: Trip records, delivery schedules
• Bills of Lading: Cargo documentation
• Insurance Policies: Coverage limits and exclusions
• CSA Scores: Carrier safety performance history

Physical Evidence

• The Truck and Trailer: Must be preserved for inspection
• Failed Components: Tires, brakes, steering parts
• Cargo and Securement Devices: Chains, straps, tarps
• Accident Scene Evidence: Skid marks, debris, road conditions

Ohio-Specific Legal Considerations

Ohio Statute of Limitations

Ohio has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims. This means you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, you should never wait this long.

Why Act Immediately?

• Evidence disappears quickly
• Witness memories fade
• The trucking company’s legal team is already working
• Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days

Ohio Comparative Negligence Rule

Ohio follows a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar rule.

This means:

• If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages
• Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you’re more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover anything

Example: If you’re found 20% at fault and your damages are $100,000, you can recover $80,000.

Ohio Damage Caps

Ohio has specific rules about damages:

Non-Economic Damages (Pain & Suffering):

• Capped at $250,000 or 3 times economic damages (whichever is greater)
• Maximum cap is $350,000 per plaintiff or $500,000 per occurrence

Punitive Damages:

• Capped at 2 times compensatory damages

Exceptions: These caps don’t apply to catastrophic injuries (permanent disability, loss of limb, etc.).

Ohio Insurance Requirements

Ohio requires:

• Minimum liability insurance: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident for injuries
• Property damage: $25,000

However, commercial trucks must carry higher federal minimums:

• $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
• $1,000,000 for oil, large equipment
• $5,000,000 for hazardous materials

This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.

The Attorney911 Advantage: Why We Win Ohio Trucking Cases

1. Our Team Includes a Former Insurance Defense Attorney

Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working at a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how trucking insurers evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for Ohio accident victims.

What This Means for Your Case:

• We know all the tactics insurance companies use
• We anticipate their arguments before they make them
• We know when they’re bluffing about settlement offers
• We understand their valuation formulas
• We know how to counter their lowball offers

2. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, which gives us experience handling complex federal cases. Many interstate trucking cases can be filed in federal court, and our federal experience translates to stronger Ohio cases.

3. Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve secured significant verdicts and settlements for Ohio trucking accident victims:

• $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement (workplace case with trucking elements)
• $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement (with trucking company defendant)
• $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
• Millions recovered for Ohio families in wrongful death cases

4. Ohio-Specific Knowledge

We understand:

• Ohio’s trucking corridors and high-risk areas
• Ohio’s courts and judges
• Ohio’s comparative negligence rules
• Ohio’s damage caps and exceptions
• Ohio’s local trucking companies and their safety records

5. Bilingual Services for Ohio’s Hispanic Community

Ohio has a growing Hispanic population, and many truck drivers and accident victims speak Spanish as their primary language. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

Hablamos Español. Si usted o un ser querido ha sido lesionado en un accidente de camión en Ohio, llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratuita.

6. Aggressive Evidence Preservation

We move fast to preserve critical evidence:

• Spoliation letters sent within 24-48 hours
• Black box data downloaded before it’s overwritten
• ELD records preserved to prove HOS violations
• Dashcam footage secured before it’s deleted
• Physical evidence preserved for expert analysis

7. Access to Top Experts

We work with Ohio’s leading experts:

• Accident reconstructionists to analyze crash dynamics
• Trucking industry experts to evaluate carrier practices
• Medical experts to document injuries and future care needs
• Economic experts to calculate lost earning capacity
• Life care planners to develop comprehensive care plans

What to Do After an Ohio 18-Wheeler Accident

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Ohio, follow these steps:

1. Call 911 Immediately

• Report the accident and request police and medical assistance
• Ohio law requires reporting accidents with injuries or property damage over $1,000

2. Seek Medical Attention

• Even if you feel okay, get checked out
• Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents
• Some injuries (TBI, internal bleeding) may not show symptoms immediately
• Medical records create critical evidence for your case

Ohio Trauma Centers:

• Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (Columbus)
• Cleveland Clinic
• University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
• MetroHealth Medical Center (Cleveland)
• Miami Valley Hospital (Dayton)
• University of Cincinnati Medical Center

3. Document the Scene

If you’re able, collect evidence at the scene:

• Photograph all vehicle damage (inside and out)
• Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks
• Photograph your injuries
• Get the truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
• Get the trucking company name and DOT number
• Get contact information from witnesses
• Note the responding officer’s name and badge number

4. Do NOT Give Statements

• Do not give recorded statements to any insurance company
• Do not sign anything without consulting an attorney
• Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you

5. Contact an Ohio Trucking Accident Attorney Immediately

• Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases
• We can send spoliation letters to preserve critical data
• The sooner we start investigating, the stronger your case will be

Ohio Trucking Accident Case Results

While every case is unique, these Ohio and national examples demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

• $462 Million (2024, Missouri) – Underride accident where two men were decapitated
• $730 Million (2021, Texas) – Oversize load killed 73-year-old woman
• $160 Million (2024, Alabama) – Rollover left driver quadriplegic
• $150 Million (2022, Texas) – Two children killed on I-30
• $141.5 Million (2023, Florida) – Nuclear verdict against defunct carrier
• $90 Million (Houston, TX) – Truck driver burned in explosion
• $37.5 Million (Texas) – Trucking verdict for catastrophic injuries

These verdicts show that juries are willing to hold trucking companies fully accountable for negligence.

Ohio Trucking Industry Facts

Understanding Ohio’s trucking industry helps build stronger cases:

• Major Ohio Carriers: Ohio is home to numerous trucking companies, including some with national operations
• Ports and Hubs: Ohio has several major logistics hubs:
  • Rickenbacker Air Cargo Hub (Columbus)
  • Port of Cleveland
  • Port of Toledo
  • Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport
• Key Industries: Ohio’s trucking industry serves:
  • Manufacturing (automotive, steel, aerospace)
  • Agriculture
  • Retail distribution
  • Energy (oil and gas)
• Seasonal Factors: Ohio’s trucking patterns vary by season:
  • Winter: Snow and ice create hazardous conditions
  • Spring: Agricultural shipments increase
  • Fall: Retail shipments peak for holiday season
• Regulatory Environment: Ohio follows federal FMCSA regulations but has additional state requirements for intrastate carriers

The Trucking Company’s Playbook: How They Try to Avoid Responsibility

Trucking companies and their insurers use predictable tactics to minimize claims. We know their playbook because our team includes a former insurance defense attorney.

Common Insurance Tactics:

1. Quick Lowball Settlement Offers

   • Offer a small settlement before you understand your injuries
   • Pressure you to accept before consulting an attorney

2. Denying or Minimizing Injuries

   • Claim your injuries are pre-existing
   • Argue you’re exaggerating your symptoms
   • Question your medical treatment

3. Blaming the Victim

   • Claim you were partially or fully at fault
   • Use Ohio’s comparative negligence rules to reduce your recovery

4. Delaying the Claims Process

   • Take months to respond to requests
   • Request unnecessary documentation
   • Hope you’ll give up or accept a low offer

5. Using Recorded Statements Against You

   • Ask leading questions during recorded statements
   • Take your words out of context
   • Use your statements to deny your claim

6. “Pre-Existing Condition” Defense

   • Argue your injuries existed before the accident
   • Claim the accident didn’t cause your current condition

7. “Gap in Treatment” Attacks

   • Argue that gaps in your medical treatment mean you’re not really injured
   • Claim you’re making your injuries worse by not following treatment

8. Sending Surveillance Investigators

   • Follow you and record your activities
   • Try to catch you doing something inconsistent with your claimed injuries

9. Hiring “Independent” Medical Examiners

   • Send you to doctors who work for the insurance company
   • These doctors often minimize injuries to help the insurer

10. Drowning You in Paperwork

    • Overwhelm you with requests for documents
    • Hope you’ll make mistakes or miss deadlines

How We Counter These Tactics:

• Never accept early settlement offers – We calculate the full value of your case
• Obtain comprehensive medical documentation – We work with your doctors to document your injuries fully
• Investigate thoroughly – We gather evidence to disprove fault allegations
• File lawsuit when necessary – We don’t let insurance companies delay indefinitely
• Never let you give statements without us – We prepare you for any recorded statements
• Apply the “Eggshell Skull” doctrine – We argue that the trucking company must take you as they find you
• Document all treatment – We help you explain any gaps in treatment
• Expose unfair surveillance – We challenge surveillance that misrepresents your activities
• Counter with our own experts – We retain independent medical experts
• Use aggressive litigation – We file motions to force resolution

Ohio Trucking Accident FAQ

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Ohio?

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Ohio, take these steps immediately if you’re able:

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
• Document the scene with photos and video if possible
• 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

How quickly should I contact an Ohio trucking 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.

What evidence should my Ohio trucking accident attorney obtain?

We pursue all critical evidence in Ohio trucking cases:

• ECM/Black box data
• ELD records
• Driver Qualification File
• Maintenance records
• Inspection reports
• Dispatch logs
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Cell phone records
• The physical truck and trailer
• Cargo securement records
• GPS/telematics data

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Ohio?

Multiple parties may be liable in Ohio trucking accidents:

• 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?

Ohio 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 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
• 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. We prove HOS violations with ELD data in every Ohio trucking case.

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. We subpoena these records in every Ohio trucking case.

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, unlike typical car accidents where coverage may be limited to $30,000-$100,000.

What if multiple insurance policies apply to my Ohio trucking 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 Ohio trucking accident attorney first.

What injuries are common in Ohio 18-wheeler accidents?

Due to the massive size and weight disparity, Ohio 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 Ohio 18-wheeler accident cases worth?

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

Ohio’s damage caps apply to non-economic damages (pain and suffering), but these caps don’t apply to catastrophic injuries. 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 an Ohio trucking accident?

Ohio 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

Ohio’s statute of limitations for wrongful death is 2 years from the date of death.

How long do I have to file an Ohio trucking accident lawsuit?

Ohio has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

How long do Ohio 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 Ohio 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.

What if I was partially at fault for the Ohio trucking accident?

Ohio follows a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar rule. This means:

• If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages
• Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you’re more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover anything

Our job is to investigate thoroughly and minimize any fault attributed to you.

Can I still recover if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Possibly. We investigate all potentially liable parties, including:

• The truck driver (personal assets)
• Cargo owners
• Loading companies
• Maintenance providers
• Manufacturers
• Freight brokers

We also explore all available insurance policies.

What if the truck was carrying hazardous materials?

Hazmat trucking accidents create additional liability:

• Higher insurance requirements ($5 million minimum)
• Additional regulatory violations
• Environmental cleanup costs
• Increased risk of severe injuries

Hazmat cases often involve multiple liable parties and higher potential recoveries.

How do I prove the truck driver was fatigued?

We prove fatigue with:

• ELD data showing hours of service violations
• Dispatch records showing unrealistic schedules
• Cell phone records showing late-night communications
• Witness testimony about driver behavior
• Truck stop receipts showing late-night fueling
• Driver’s work history showing excessive hours

What if the truck’s dashcam recorded the accident?

Dashcam footage can be powerful evidence. We demand preservation of all video evidence immediately. Footage can show:

• The moments leading up to the crash
• Driver behavior (distraction, fatigue)
• Road conditions
• Traffic signals
• Other vehicles’ actions

Can I get the truck’s GPS data?

Yes. GPS and telematics data can prove:

• The truck’s route and speed
• Stops and their duration
• Hours of service compliance
• Driver behavior patterns

We send spoliation letters to preserve this data immediately.

What if road conditions contributed to my Ohio trucking accident?

Government entities may be liable for:

• Dangerous road design
• Failure to maintain roads
• Inadequate signage
• Improper work zone setup

Ohio has strict notice requirements for government claims. You must act quickly to preserve these claims.

Can I sue for PTSD after an Ohio trucking accident?

Yes. PTSD (Post-traumatic Stress Disorder) compensation is available. Victims may experience:

• Flashbacks and nightmares
• Fear and anxiety
• Depression
• Sleep disturbances
• Avoidance of driving or certain locations

Documentation from psychologists and therapists is essential.

What is the FMCSA and how does it help my Ohio case?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates commercial motor vehicles. FMCSA regulations help your case by:

• Establishing clear safety standards
• Requiring record-keeping that proves violations
• Creating liability when companies fail to comply
• Providing public safety records (CSA scores)

We use FMCSA violations to prove negligence in every Ohio trucking case.

Can I access the trucking company’s safety record?

Yes. 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 Ohio’s roads.

What experts do you use in Ohio trucking cases?

We work with Ohio’s leading experts:

• Accident reconstructionists to analyze crash dynamics
• Trucking industry experts to evaluate carrier practices
• Medical experts to document injuries and future care needs
• Economic experts to calculate lost earning capacity
• Life care planners to develop comprehensive care plans
• Vocational experts to assess disability impact

What is loss of consortium?

Loss of consortium is the impact of injuries on your marriage/family relationships. It includes:

• Loss of companionship
• Loss of affection
• Loss of sexual relations
• Loss of household services
• Impact on children’s relationship with injured parent

Ohio allows spouses to recover for loss of consortium.

When are punitive damages available in Ohio trucking cases?

Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company or driver acted with:

• Gross negligence
• Willful misconduct
• Conscious indifference to safety
• Fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence)

Ohio caps punitive damages at 2 times compensatory damages.

How are future medical expenses calculated?

We work with medical and economic experts to calculate:

• Future surgeries and hospitalizations
• Ongoing rehabilitation
• Medications
• Medical equipment
• Home modifications
• In-home care
• Life expectancy

These calculations ensure you’re compensated for all future care needs.

Ohio Trucking Accident Resources

Ohio Government Resources:

• Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT): transportation.ohio.gov
• Ohio State Highway Patrol: statepatrol.ohio.gov
• Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles: bmv.ohio.gov
• Ohio Department of Public Safety: publicsafety.ohio.gov

Ohio Medical Resources:

• Ohio Brain Injury Program: odh.ohio.gov
• Ohio Valley Center for Brain Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation: wexnermedical.osu.edu
• Brain Injury Association of Ohio: biohio.org
• Ohio Spinal Cord Injury Model System: wexnermedical.osu.edu

Ohio Legal Resources:

• Ohio State Bar Association: ohiobar.org
• Ohio Supreme Court: sc.ohio.gov
• Ohio Attorney General: ohioattorneygeneral.gov

Federal Trucking Resources:

• FMCSA: fmcsa.dot.gov
• NHTSA: nhtsa.gov
• FMCSA Safety Measurement System: safer.fmcsa.dot.gov

Contact Ohio’s Trucking Accident Specialists

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Ohio, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every day. The trucking company’s legal team is already working to protect their interests. You need a team that will fight for you.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Our Ohio trucking accident attorneys offer:

• Free case evaluations – No obligation
• Contingency fee representation – You pay nothing unless we win
• 24/7 availability – We answer calls immediately
• Bilingual services – Hablamos Español
• Ohio-specific expertise – We know Ohio’s courts and trucking corridors

Remember: Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget. The sooner you call, the stronger your case will be.

“The trucking company has lawyers. So should you.”

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today to schedule your free consultation with an Ohio 18-wheeler accident attorney. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and help you understand your legal options.

Don’t let the trucking company win. Call Attorney911 now.