Truck accidents can cause serious injuries and deaths, and determining who is liable depends on the facts of the accident. Williams Hart & Boundas, LLP represents victims of truck accidents and helps them pursue compensation from responsible parties.
Why Choose Williams Hart & Boundas, LLP for Truck Accident Cases
Williams Hart & Boundas, LLP has experience handling truck accident cases and understands how to identify liable parties. The firm says it works on a contingency fee basis and offers free consultations.
Types of Truck Accidents and Liable Parties
Driver Negligence
Truck drivers may be liable if they operate vehicles negligently, including speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence, or violating traffic laws. Driver negligence is a common cause of truck accidents.
Trucking Company Negligence
Trucking companies may be liable for accidents caused by their drivers if they failed to hire qualified drivers, failed to provide adequate training, failed to maintain vehicles, or failed to enforce safety policies. Companies may also be liable for negligent hiring or retention of drivers with poor safety records.
Equipment Failure and Maintenance
Truck accidents may result from equipment failure, including brake failure, tire blowouts, steering failure, or other mechanical problems. If a trucking company failed to maintain equipment properly, they may be liable for accidents caused by equipment failure.
Manufacturer Defects
Truck manufacturers may be liable if a truck contains a design defect or manufacturing defect that contributed to an accident. Product liability claims may be available against manufacturers.
How to Prove Truck Accident Liability
Proving liability in a truck accident case typically requires evidence showing that a defendant owed a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused an injury. Evidence may include police reports, witness statements, dashcam footage, maintenance records, and expert analysis.
In truck accident cases, discovery may reveal important evidence such as driver logs, maintenance records, hiring records, and training materials. This evidence can help prove negligence or inadequate safety practices.
Damages Available in Truck Accident Cases
If you are injured in a truck accident, you may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, permanent disability, and, in fatal cases, wrongful death damages.
The amount of compensation depends on the severity of your injuries, the strength of the liability evidence, and the insurance coverage available. Some truck accident cases result in substantial settlements or verdicts.
Steps to Take After a Truck Accident
If you are injured in a truck accident, these steps can help protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek immediate medical attention
- Call police and report the accident
- Document the scene with photos or video
- Gather witness information
- Preserve evidence, including dashcam footage and maintenance records
- Contact Williams Hart & Boundas, LLP for legal guidance
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accident Liability
Can I sue a trucking company for a truck accident?
Yes, if the trucking company or its driver was negligent. Potential claims may include negligence, negligent hiring or retention, negligent maintenance, and product liability if equipment failure contributed to the accident.
What damages can I recover from a truck accident?
Potential damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, permanent disability, and, in fatal cases, wrongful death damages such as loss of companionship and funeral expenses.
How long do I have to file a truck accident claim?
Texas law generally gives injured people two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. It is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible so evidence can be preserved and the investigation can begin promptly.
What if I was partially at fault for the truck accident?
Texas follows a comparative negligence rule. A person may still recover damages if less than 51 percent responsible, but the recovery is reduced by the person’s percentage of fault.
Can I recover damages if the truck driver was an independent contractor?
Yes, depending on the facts. Even if a driver is an independent contractor, the trucking company may still be liable under certain circumstances, such as negligent hiring or retention.
Contact Williams Hart & Boundas, LLP for a Free Consultation
If you were injured in a truck accident, Williams Hart & Boundas, LLP says it can help. Call (713) 230-2200 for a free consultation and to discuss your legal options.
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