Reno Truck Accident Attorneys

Injured in a Truck Accident?

Through their sheer size and weight, big rigs, 18 wheelers, and other large commercial vehicles present a significant risk on Reno roads. Not only can these vehicles obstruct drivers’ lines of sight, but when an accident occurs, the outcome is often catastrophic for other motorists and their passengers.

When collisions occur due to truck driver error or negligent practices by trucking companies, victims may be entitled to compensation. These cases involve unique challenges that benefit from the support of an experienced big rig accident lawyer in Reno.

At the Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates, our legal team has over 37 years of personal injury law experience. During that time, we have helped many big rig accident and 18 wheeler accident victims receive the compensation needed to recover and move forward with dignity.

We are prepared to provide aggressive, skilled representation for your big rig or 18 wheeler accident claim today. As a trusted 18 wheeler accident attorney in Reno, we are committed to holding responsible parties accountable for your injuries.

You and your loved ones deserve answers after a truck accident. Call us at (775) 573-0229 or contact us online today to explore your legal options with a Reno big rig accident attorney.

Common Causes of Big Rig & 18 Wheeler Accidents in Reno

Big rig and 18 wheeler accidents in Reno, Nevada, often result from unique local infrastructure, traffic patterns, and climate. Among the most prevalent causes are driver fatigue on long-haul routes such as Interstate 80, distracted driving, inadequate vehicle maintenance, and unsafe lane changes in congested areas like the Spaghetti Bowl interchange. 

Trucking in the Reno area is further complicated by harsh weather; icy winter conditions dramatically increase risks on the Sierra Nevada corridor. Other contributing factors include improperly loaded cargo and violations of state or federal safety standards, which can heighten the potential for catastrophic accidents. Local agencies, such as the Nevada Department of Transportation and Nevada Highway Patrol, enforce these trucking laws, but violations unfortunately persist.

Our team at Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates thoroughly investigates every case detail, drawing from decades of experience and our deep knowledge of Reno roadways. By working with accident reconstruction professionals, we can uncover evidence from incidents along South Virginia Street, Kietzke Lane, or U.S. 395, ensuring we address root causes. As your big rig accident lawyer in Reno, we leverage our understanding of local trucking dangers and legal nuances to hold liable parties accountable in every 18 wheeler case.

What Should You Do Immediately After a Truck Accident?

According to the National Safety Council, 5,837 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes and 120,200 large trucks were involved in accidents resulting in injuries in 2022. Most of these injuries were sustained by occupants of other vehicles (73%), with truck occupants comprising 26% and non-occupants 1%.

Unfortunately, a truck accident can occur at any time, particularly in areas with high commercial vehicle traffic like Reno. To protect your rights and maximize your opportunity for compensation, it’s essential to know exactly what steps to take:

• Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries.
• Call 911: Report the accident and request medical help if needed.
• Exchange Information: Gather names, contact details, and insurance information from all parties involved. Collect contact information from any witnesses if possible.
• Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible.
• Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, get checked by a healthcare professional.
• File a Police Report: Obtain a copy of the police report for your records.
• Consult a Truck Accident Attorney: Speak with an experienced personal injury attorney, especially if there are significant damages or injuries.

If you are involved in a big rig or 18 wheeler collision on major routes such as Interstate 80 or Highway 395 in Reno, documenting your experience is crucial. Consider keeping a journal of how your injuries impact daily life, as this serves as strong evidence for your truck accident claim. Retain all receipts, travel costs, and correspondence related to the accident. For incidents within Reno or Washoe County, engage with local law enforcement agencies like the Reno Police Department or Nevada Highway Patrol to secure official accident records. Timely and thorough documentation, combined with guidance from a knowledgeable Reno 18 wheeler accident attorney, can have a lasting impact on your case’s success.

What Can Be Recovered in a Truck Accident Case?

When a big rig or 18 wheeler accident occurs, serious injuries and life-altering consequences are common. Victims and families often wonder what types of compensation a claim against a trucking company may provide.

Surprisingly, truck accident claims frequently allow recovery far beyond just medical expenses. A successful claim handled by a skilled 18 wheeler accident lawyer in Reno can pursue a variety of damages:

Truck accident compensation can help cover:

• Medical bills
• Expected future medical expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Property loss and damage
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Permanent or long-term disability
• Lost wages and future capacity to earn

Even if you believe you were partially at fault for your accident, Nevada’s comparative negligence law may still allow you to recover compensation. Consult a Reno big rig accident attorney familiar with these statutes for specific guidance.

Insurance carriers and trucking companies defending big rig and 18 wheeler accident claims often deploy teams to reduce or challenge compensation. Our experience representing victims throughout Reno shows that injuries can lead to daunting medical costs, lengthy rehabilitation, and long-term income loss. 

Damages can include both the economic costs of treatment and the emotional toll these events take. If your accident happened near the Spaghetti Bowl, McCarran Boulevard, or another local landmark, there may be complex liability issues. At Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates, we’re versed in the intricacies of Nevada law and local insurance practices, ensuring we pursue every available avenue for compensation in your Reno truck accident case.

The Truck Accident Claim Process in Reno, NV

Pursuing a big rig or 18 wheeler accident claim in Reno, NV, involves several critical legal steps. The process starts with an in-depth investigation—gathering driver logs, witness statements, surveillance footage, and black box data from the commercial truck. As your trusted 18 wheeler accident attorney in Reno, we prioritize securing crucial evidence quickly, knowing that information at busy intersections can be lost or recorded over.

Once evidence is collected, we help clients complete legal filings with the appropriate Washoe County court, ensuring compliance with Nevada statutes and procedures. Throughout your case, Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates maintains open lines of communication, so you receive clear updates and direct answers to your questions. Insurance company negotiations are often challenging; their representatives can be aggressive in defending trucking firms. Our experience as Reno big rig accident attorneys allows us to anticipate these tactics and build a case that is both thorough and resilient. From icy foothill roads to high-traffic distribution centers in Reno, we tailor every strategy to your unique local circumstances, helping you secure the most favorable outcome possible under Nevada law.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident Case?

Many parties may share liability for a big rig or 18 wheeler accident in Reno, depending on the facts. Typical liable parties include:

• Truck Driver: When driver negligence or reckless driving causes a crash.
• Trucking Company: For accidents caused by unsafe policies, negligent hiring, or poor training.
• Truck Manufacturer: If mechanical defects lead to failure and cause the accident.
• Cargo Loaders: If improper cargo loading makes a truck unstable or unsafe.

The specifics of your Reno truck accident case will determine the right path for investigation. Liability can also reach third-party maintenance providers or contractors in northern Nevada who failed to properly service a big rig or 18 wheeler. A thorough review of driver logs, black box data, maintenance records, and routes—such as those traveled on Interstate 580—is essential. Since Reno is a distribution hub, accident cases here may involve multiple companies and insurance carriers across state lines. Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates collaborates with local investigators and professionals to build a clear, comprehensive liability profile in every Reno truck accident case.

Nevada Laws & Regulations Impacting Reno Truck Accident Claims

Commercial trucks in Nevada, including big rigs and 18 wheelers, are governed by strict state laws and regulations. The Nevada Revised Statutes, particularly Chapters 484D and 706, specify requirements for vehicle weight, driver rest, and regular inspections. Both the Nevada DOT and federal DOT oversee operations, requiring compliance with daily log documentation and strict maintenance schedules. Law enforcement, including the Nevada Highway Patrol, regularly checks vehicles at commercial inspection stations—especially on I-80 and Hwy 395 running through Reno. Trucking companies failing to follow these mandates can be held liable for resulting accidents and injuries.

As your Reno big rig accident lawyer, Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates evaluates every aspect of your claim for regulatory compliance. We review maintenance and logbook records and investigate weigh station data for red flags. Whether a truck operator or trucking company violated local or federal rules, we bring the full power of Nevada’s regulatory framework into building your case. Our familiarity with Reno’s court system and local regulatory agencies strengthens your position—maximizing your options for a positive claim resolution and the financial recovery you deserve after a Reno truck accident.

How Long Do You Have to File a Truck Accident Claim in Nevada?

Nevada’s statute of limitations for personal injury—including big rig and 18 wheeler accidents—is typically two years from the date of the incident. Some cases may involve shorter or longer deadlines based on unique circumstances, so it is critical to speak with a Reno truck accident attorney as soon as possible after your accident.

Our truck accident lawyers in Reno help victims gather all needed documentation, medical records, and expert evidence to connect injuries to the accident. Prompt action ensures critical evidence—such as accident scene photos, electronic log data, and eyewitness statements from roads like Keystone Avenue or Neil Road—is preserved and available for your claim.

Keep in mind, claims in Washoe County courts must be filed within the allowed timeframe or you may forfeit your right to compensation. Even if your accident involved a government-owned vehicle or an on-the-job collision, unique Nevada deadlines may apply. At Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates, we act quickly, ensuring clients are fully protected and deadlines are never missed on their 18 wheeler or big rig accident case in Reno.

Our team will develop a comprehensive legal strategy based on evidence and Nevada law to support your claim and pursue the compensation you deserve. Call us at (775) 573-0229 for a legal consultation with a Reno big rig accident attorney!

Get the Compensation You Deserve. Contact Our Reno Truck Accident Lawyers Now!

At Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates, we understand the complex legal landscape facing big rig and 18 wheeler accident victims in Nevada. Our attorneys provide guidance and support at every step, helping clients to:

• Understand your rights under Nevada law.
• Conduct detailed investigations, collecting critical evidence and consulting local experts.
• Negotiate assertively with insurance companies.
• Identify all possible liable parties to maximize your recovery.
• Represent you in Washoe County courts if your case goes to trial.

You do not have to let your injuries go unanswered. Our team will help you pursue all available remedies for the impact on your life and your family’s future.

Our hands-on approach as a Reno big rig accident attorney means we frequently partner with local accident reconstruction professionals, safety consultants, and Nevada law enforcement to strengthen our investigation process. If your crash occurred on I-80, near a distribution center, or inside a Reno school zone, our region-specific insight can make a substantial difference. With more than three decades serving Reno and the surrounding communities, we bring unwavering commitment to each truck accident case—pursuing justice and fair compensation for every client we serve.

Every client at Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates can be confident that we explore all possible options and remedies in pursuit of their recovery after a truck accident.

Get started today. Explore your legal options with a free case evaluation with our proven and dedicated Reno, NV big rig & 18 wheeler accident attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do If the Trucking Company’s Insurance Contacts Me After a Big Rig Accident in Reno?

If you are contacted by the trucking company’s insurance provider after a big rig or 18 wheeler accident in Reno, be cautious. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize the value of claims and may seek statements that can harm your case. You are not required to speak to the insurer before consulting with a qualified Reno big rig accident attorney. At Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates, we recommend that you avoid providing any recorded or written statements or signing any settlement documents until you have sought legal guidance. Our experience with insurance companies in Nevada allows us to protect your rights and communications. We can handle all interactions with insurance companies on your behalf, helping you focus on your recovery and improving your prospects for a full, fair financial recovery after your Reno truck accident.

Are Commercial Truck Accident Claims Different from Standard Car Accident Cases in Reno?

Yes, big rig and 18 wheeler accident claims in Reno are fundamentally different from standard car accident cases. The damages are often more severe, and multiple parties—such as truck drivers, transportation companies, cargo loaders, and manufacturers—may be involved. Federal and Nevada state trucking regulations add layers of complexity, requiring in-depth review of driver qualifications, maintenance records, and cargo logs. Evidence collection is more extensive, often including data from electronic logging devices and on-board cameras. Local Reno conditions—like high-volume freight corridors, mountainous terrain, and changing weather—make these cases even more challenging. Our team at Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates has decades of experience navigating these complex legal landscapes, ensuring our clients’ cases are built on strong factual and regulatory foundations.

How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Big Rig or 18 Wheeler Accident Claim in Reno?

The length of time to resolve a big rig or 18 wheeler accident claim in Reno varies based on numerous factors. Case resolution depends on the seriousness of the injuries, clarity around who is at fault, number of parties involved, and how much evidence must be collected. While some straightforward cases settle in months, others—particularly those involving litigation—can take a year or more. The scheduling of Washoe County courts, cooperation among attorneys, and the timing of required expert evaluations all play roles. At Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates, we make it our goal to streamline each step, keep our clients informed about expected timelines, and ensure that their rights are always protected throughout the legal process. Our familiarity with local courts and insurance practices helps us navigate roadblocks, keeping your case on track toward an effective resolution.