It is unfortunate, but semi-truck accidents are difficult in Texas where are extensive road systems and a thriving trucking industry. In these cases, some individuals can get severely hurt, much property may be lost, and many people may even die. If either of you or your relative has had a semi-truck accident in Texas, a legal representative who specializes in this field would be needed so that all the legal claims, settlements or lawsuits are as well managed.
This article outlines all the necessary factors that will enable someone to understand what a legitimate semi-truck accident lawyer does in Texas, the factors leading to truck accidents and the need to obtain such legal services. We will also detail the steps to follow after an accident and what you need to prepare yourself for concerning legal action.
What is a Semi Truck Accident Lawyer?
A semi-truck or an 18-wheeler accident lawyer is a person who provides legal services to personal injury law and who has acquired necessary knowledge in the field of accidents with commercial vehicles. These lawyers are familiar with trucking statutes, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) laws, and accident insurance in the trucking business.
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Why You Must Have a Semi Truck Accident Lawyer When Suing in Texas
Unlike other kinds of accidents, the trucking sector is highly controlled, and accidents involving commercial vehicles such as semi-trucks tend to be more crimes. A Semi truck accident lawyer in Texas specializes in dealing with multi-party claims as in most instances of trucking accidents, there is not only the driver of the truck but also the trucking company the manufacturer or the maintenance company as well.
Important Features of a Semi-Truck Accident Lawyer in Texas:
Understanding of State and Federal Laws: Given the scope of its operations, Accident Lawyer Texas takes into both the federal law and Texas state laws governing the trucking sector.
Multi-Party Litigation: In most cases, more than one person is at fault for the accident, and a capable lawyer will find all responsible parties.
Dealing With Insurance Companies: Most of the time the lawyers representing the trucking company’s insurance providers are affiliated with a corporation with professional lawyers. It is wise to have experience dealing with such corporations on your behalf.
Factors Leading to Semi Truck Wrecks in Texas
To develop a strong strategy, it is necessary to factors leading to semi-truck accidents. These accidents can be attributed to the following common causes:
Driver Fatigue
Due to time constraints and schedules, truck drivers often work long hours, which causes fatigue and an increased likelihood of an accident. Even though federal laws stipulate that there shall be breaks, some drivers or some companies break these regulations risking the drivers on the highway.
Distracted Driving
Dramatic statistics are the number of distracted driving accidents recorded in the years that have exploited Texas roads and highways. Truck drivers can also get distracted during a drive; they can use their mobile phones, eat, or even change their GPS.
Negligent Vehicle Maintenance
It is ensured and regulated that trucks and trailers for commercial purposes are subject to certain maintenance practices. When trucking companies do not take adequate care of the maintenance of their trucks, then such neglect and negligence can cause accidents in the form of brake failures, tyre bursts, and related malfunctions.
Overloading or Improperly Secured Cargo.
Trucks with too much or loosely secured cargo have poor balance and may be hard to control when turning or stopping.
Weather Conditions
Predicting the weather in Texas is not an easy task as it may be hot or it may rain heavily. Bad weather conditions affect the drivers especially those operating big trucks such as semi-trucks posing a heightened risk of accidents.
Steps to Take After a Semi Truck Accident in Texas
Being involved in an accident in Texas often with a semi-truck requires you to take a few to safeguard your rights from legal trouble and your health.
i. Seek Medical Attention
Taking care of your health is the spreading priority. Even if you feel okay some of the injuries sustained might not be seen on time, so you must see a medical professional.
ii. Contact Law Enforcement
Make sure that the police are called at the place where the accident occurred so that an official report can be made in the form of an accident report which can be advantageous in your case.
iii. Gather Evidence
If you are in a position to do so, collect some evidence that you might find at the place of the incident. It could be photographed the vehicles involved, the location and any injuries sustained. It is also imperative that the contact details of witnesses and other drivers are extracted.
iv. Seek the Services of a Semi Truck Accident Law Firm
A semi-truck Accident attorney in Texas as soon as possible. An attorney will be useful at this stage in that they come in handy when there is a need to liaise with the insurance companies, present enough evidence, and file the case within a specific period.
Overview of Texas Trucking Laws
In matters concerning truck operations, Texas also has state-specific regulations, unlike the federal laws alone. Regulatory policies for the trucking sector at the state level such as weight restrictions, allowable routes, and other areas within the Telates are instituted by the TxDot.
Federal Motor Carrier SafetyAdministration FMCSA Regulations
Many semi-truck accident attorneys are also very knowledgeable of FMCSA. Rules such as those governing the driver’s hours of service, truck maintenance standards and even who is accredited to drive could be present. Some of these rules by the truck involved in your accident could make your case stronger.
What to Expect from a Semi Truck Accident Lawyer in Texas
Texas semi-truck accident lawyers from a predetermined legal outline while working. Here’s what you can expect:
Case Evaluation
Your assignment will begin with assessing your claim and looking into the circumstances surrounding your accident by studying accident details such as police reports, and even medical records.
Evidence Collection
Your lawyer will collect key evidence comprising the truck, driver logbooks, maintenance records of the vehicle, and eyewitness evidence. These facts are essential in establishing negligence.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Most truck accident cases require dealing with huge insurance companies due to the complexity of the cases, which brings costs and most of the time victims are not paid. You may rest assured that these negotiations will be handled by your lawyer so that all settlements are as fair as possible.
Filing a Lawsuit (If Necessary)
Most of the time settlement negotiations become unproductive. This however does not mean that the aggrieved party salads on this time frame as in Texas, an individual is allowed two years from the date of an accident to pursue an injury claim.
Going to Trial
It is agreed that the truck crash litigation is handled by way of settlement but a handful of such litigation is taken to court. A qualified lawyer is aware that some cases may be taken to court therefore he/she will stand in court in your place to seek the compensation expected from the injury.
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Compensation You Can Claim in a Semi Truck Accident Case
In case you sustained injuries in a semi-trailer accident in Texas, you might be entitled to a wide range of compensation:
Medical Expenses: Past, present and future medical expenses that arise from the injuries.
Lost Wages: If you are prevented from earning from the accident, you are eligible for lost income and loss of income-generating potential.
Pain and suffering: These are non-economic damages that consist of non-economic reasons such as emotional distress or physical pain that might accompany the injury.
Property Damage: You can seek compensation for the damage to your vehicle or other personal belongings.
Punitive Damages: These would be additional damages that aim to punish the offender and prevent future wrongdoing if they were grossly negligent or willful.
External and Internal Resources for Further Information
If the first trucking accident claims you are filing goes beyond your interest, don’t worry here are a few useful links to turn your dream into a reality.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)
Legal Resources on Personal Injury Law in Texas
Summary
A semi-truck accident attorney in Texas can be your best fighting partner after a crash with a commercial vehicle. These lawyers know the federal and state laws concerning trucking and will do their best to get you your compensation whether a settlement or trial is reached.
After a Truck Accident Lawyer in Texas, the road can be challenging. However, with the right legal representation, you can navigate the complexities of the legal system and get the compensation you deserve. Remember, seeking the help of a specialized attorney is not just an option: it is an important step in ensuring justice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Semi Truck Accident Lawyer in Texas
Can I claim damages in a truck accident?
Damages may include compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
How soon after an incident should I contact a truck accident attorney?
It is up to an attorney as soon as possible to ensure timely action and preserve important evidence.
How does hiring a speciality attorney differ from hiring a general personal injury attorney?
Specialized attorneys have specific knowledge of trucking industry regulations, which provides a strategic advantage in truck accident cases.
What happens if the truck driver does not have insurance?
Your attorney will explore alternative avenues for compensation, such as going after the shipping company or other responsible parties.
Can I still sue if the accident happened outside Texas and involved a Texas-based trucking company?
Yes, as long as the trucking company operates in Texas, you can sue the state.
