Being involved in an accident with a commercial truck can be a life-altering experience. The size, weight, and power of these vehicles make even minor collisions potentially life-threatening. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, you need the help of our Houston truck accident lawyers as you tryto recover financial relief for your injuries.
At Williams Hart & Boundas, our Houston truck accident lawyers understand the complexities of these cases and are dedicated to fighting for compensation for the injuries you sustain after a collision with a large commercial vehicle. Our attorneys are skilled in managing the unique challenges involved in these cases and have the resources to investigate them thoroughly.
Our Houston truck accident lawyers will fight to hold all liable parties accountable for your injuries. We will provide personalized attention, support, and clear communication throughout the legal process. Contact our truck accident attorneys in Houston today to schedule a free consultation and discuss how we can aggressively advocate for you.
Types of Truck Accident Cases
The National Safety Council (NSC) defines large trucks as any vehicle with a gross weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds, not including buses or motor homes. The large variation of truck types, sizes, and uses can lead to many types of truck accidents. Our legal team at Williams Hart & Boundas has extensive experience in handling all types of truck accident cases throughout Houston and the rest of Texas, including:
Semi-Truck Accidents
A collision involving a large commercial truck, such as a tanker truck, can result in devastating injuries and fatalities due to their size, weight, and maneuverability.
Tow Truck Accidents
A tow truck accident can be particularly dangerous due to not only the size and weight of the vehicle but also the unique circumstances in which it operates. Working in high-traffic environments increases the risk of collisions related to improperly secured or balanced vehicles being transported.
Delivery Truck Accidents
Accidents involving delivery trucks can occur on Houston’s busy streets and highways. A collision with a heavy box truck full of packages can result in severe injuries to a pedestrian, cyclist, or other motorist.
Construction Vehicle Accidents
A collision involving a construction vehicle, such as a dump truck, cement truck, or bulldozer, can occur on a Houston roadway or at a construction site. Construction sites are already inherently dangerous, so it is especially important to have effective communication between construction vehicle operators, spotters, and other workers to prevent accidents.
Garbage Truck Accidents
An accident involving a garbage truck can occur with another motorist or pedestrian when the driver fails to exercise caution while navigating residential neighborhoods and busy streets.
Rollover Accidents
Large trucks have a high center of gravity and often carry unstable loads, which can leave them vulnerable to rollover accidents that occur when their loads shift. A truck rollover can be deadly for the truck driver and other motorists or pedestrians in the truck’s path.
Jackknifing Accidents
A jackknife accident can occur when a truck’s trailer travels faster than the cab and the tractor-trailer folds on itself, forming a 90-degree angle between the cab and the trailer. This can crush or trap vehicles under the truck’s trailer, resulting in catastrophic or fatal injuries.
Underride Accidents
An underride accident can occur when a smaller vehicle that sits lower than a commercial truck collides with the rear or side of a truck. If it becomes trapped underneath the trailer, occupants in the smaller vehicle can experience severe crushing injuries or death.
Rear-End Accidents
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 32% of fatal truck collisions involve rear-end accidents. Trucks require a 40% greater stopping distance than regular passenger vehicles, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which increases their chances of being involved in rear-end accidents.
Blind Spot Accidents
Commercial trucks have large blind spots, known as no-zones, immediately in front, directly behind, beside the driver’s door, and on the passenger side, because of their large size. These blind spots limit truck drivers’ visibility and increase the chances of accidents with smaller motor vehicles and pedestrians.
Runaway Trailer Accidents
When a truck and its trailer move at different speeds, the trailer can become detached from the truck and cause a runaway trailer accident. A runaway trailer collision can be caused by a shifting load, improper cargo securement, brake failure, or several other factors and can lead to devastating or fatal injuries to other motorists or pedestrians in the trailer’s path.
Cargo Accidents
Trucks carry a wide variety of cargo, and accidents can occur if the cargo is not secured properly. Improperly loaded cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable and potentially roll over or leading to spills of supplies, liquids, or hazardous substances.
Truck Driver Fatigue Accidents
Federal regulations limit the number of hours truck drivers can be behind the wheel without a break, but some drivers do not follow these hours-of-service regulations and continue driving when they become tired, which can lead to devastating accidents.
NHTSA reports that nearly 15% of fatal large truck accidents occurred in Texas in the most recent reporting year, with the state leading the rest of the country. If you have been injured in a truck accident, seek help from an experienced truck accident attorney in Houston. We can investigate the type of accident you were involved in, how it happened, and what damages you may be entitled to based on your injuries.
The Legal Process of Filing a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Texas
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Texas, you can seek compensation from the liable parties for your injuries. Filing personal injury claims in Texas involves the following steps, beginning at the time of the collision:
- Seek medical attention: Immediately after your accident, seek medical care for your injuries.
- Contact law enforcement: Report the truck accident to the appropriate authorities. In Texas, you must report accidents that result in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000 to the police.
- Gather evidence: Collect as much evidence as possible from the accident scene.
- Notify your insurance company: Inform your insurance company about the crash. However, avoid discussing fault or providing recorded statements with any insurance companies until you have consulted with a Houston truck accident lawyer.
- Consult with a Texas truck accident law firm: Schedule a free consultation with our experienced truck accident attorneys. We can investigate your accident, determine liability, and advise you on your legal options.
- Investigation: We will conduct a thorough investigation into your truck accident.
- Demand letter: If it is determined that you have a viable case, your personal injury lawyer will draft a demand letter outlining your injuries, damages, and the compensation you are seeking from the at-fault parties and / or their insurance companies.
- Negotiations: The truck accident attorneys at our law firm will enter into negotiations with the insurance companies to reach a settlement and fair resolution.
- Filing a lawsuit: If a settlement cannot be reached, we may proceed with filing a lawsuit in the appropriate court, requesting compensation for your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Discovery: All parties engage in the discovery process, where they exchange relevant information and evidence related to the case.
- Mediation or arbitration: Before proceeding to trial, parties may participate in an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) method, such as mediation or arbitration, to attempt to resolve the case outside of court.
- Trial: If your case goes to trial, the parties will present evidence and arguments before a judge and / or jury, who will determine liability and the amount of damages to be awarded.
Throughout this legal process, it is crucial to work closely with our attorneys and provide us with all the necessary information to strengthen your case. Doing so will maximize your chances of obtaining fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Our truck accident lawyers understand the complexities and unique challenges faced by truck accident victims in Texas.
The Importance of Hiring a Skilled Houston Truck Accident Lawyer
The aftermath of commercial vehicle accidents involving large trucks can be physically and financially devastating. If you are facing catastrophic injuries, emotional trauma, or significant financial burdens after a truck accident, you need a skilled Houston truck accident lawyer from Williams Hart & Boundas on your side.
Retaining a skilled Houston personal injury attorney is crucial for several reasons:
- We understand complex laws including state and federal regulations governing the trucking industry.
- We will investigate and gather evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and electronic logging device data to build a strong case on your behalf.
- We will identify all of the potentially responsible parties and hold them accountable for their negligence or wrongful actions.
- We will navigate insurance claims, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the full compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.
- We will fight for maximum compensation through settlement negotiations or litigation if necessary.
- We have courtroom experience and will work tirelessly to secure a favorable outcome on your behalf.
- You will have peace of mind knowing that you have a dedicated advocate on your side who will handle all aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Hiring a skilled Houston truck accident lawyer is essential for protecting your rights, navigating the complexities of the legal system, and ensuring you receive the justice and compensation you deserve after a commercial vehicle accident.
Car Accidents vs. Truck Crashes
Car accidents and truck accidents share similarities, but there are also significant differences due to the size, weight, and characteristics of the vehicles involved. Truck wrecks are often more severe than car accidents for many reasons. Key differences between the two include:
Size and Weight
Passenger cars are typically significantly smaller and lighter than trucks. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), trucks can weigh 20 to 30 times more than typical passenger vehicles. The larger size and weight of commercial trucks generate more force in accidents and often lead to more severe damages and injuries.
Maneuverability
Large trucks are more difficult to maneuver than passenger cars. According to FMCSA, commercial vehicles need more room for turns, having a turning radius of 55 feet, which means they may take up more than one lane during turns. Trucks’ restricted mobility and limited maneuverability increase the chances of accidents involving trucks, especially on Houston’s congested roadways like the 610 West Loop.
Stopping Distance
Commercial trucks take significantly longer to stop than cars, with FMCSA reporting that a truck traveling 65 miles per hour takes up to two football fields to stop. This massive stopping distance increases the likelihood of trucks getting into rear-end accidents. It is also more difficult for large trucks to stop than cars because of their weight, loads, and the road’s conditions and gradients.
Driver Demands
Common causes of car accidents include distracted driving, speeding, reckless driving, impaired driving, and weather conditions. While truck accidents may be caused by similar factors, they can also be caused by specific issues related to commercial trucking, such as driver fatigue.
Truck drivers are often paid per load, meaning they are under tremendous pressure to complete a minimum number of trips. While trying to increase their earning capacity, they may increase their chances of accidents caused by fatigue.
Cargo Loads
Another significant difference between cars and commercial trucks is the cargo loads carried by trucks. Their bulky loads commonly make them top-heavy, resulting in an increased likelihood of rolling over or jackknifing if they are improperly balanced or loaded and need to stop or turn suddenly. A truck’s cargo that moves or spills can also cause chemical leaks or explosions in cases of a collision.
Maintenance
It is important that regular maintenance be performed on cars and trucks. However, regular safety checks, inspections, and maintenance are crucial for commercial trucks. If a truck experiences a mechanical malfunction, such as inoperable brakes, a catastrophic accident can occur.
Severity of Injuries
Car accidents can cause a range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe injuries, such as broken bones and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). However, as FMCSA explains, tractor-trailers typically weigh 40 tons, whereas passenger cars only weigh two tons. The massive size and weight of trucks often make the injuries sustained in truck accidents significantly more severe.
While both car accidents and truck accidents can be life-altering events, truck collisions pose a greater risk of severe, life-altering injuries and fatalities due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. The legal complexities involved in truck accident cases also make it essential to seek qualified legal representation from our Houston truck accident lawyers to increase your chances of recovering fair compensation for your damages.
The Severity of Truck Accident Injuries
According to NHTSA, there were 5,788 fatalities and 154,993 injuries resulting from large truck accidents in the most recent reporting year, with more than 70% of these fatalities and injuries being occupants of vehicles other than trucks. As discussed, the immense size and weight of semi-trucks and other commercial vehicles, coupled with the force involved in collisions, can cause catastrophic injuries or fatalities. The potential severity of injuries a collision victim can sustain in a semi-truck accident include:
High-Impact Injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): TBIs can range from mild concussions to life-altering impairments. TBIs can affect memory, cognitive function, speech, and motor skills.
- Spinal cord injuries: The force of a truck accident can damage the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis and permanent loss of function in the legs, arms, or torso.
- Internal bleeding and organ damage: The impact of a crash can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs like the lungs, liver, spleen, or kidneys. These injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
- Amputations: Severe truck accidents can result in the loss of limbs due to crushing injuries or mangled body parts.
Other Serious Injuries
- Neck and back injuries: Whiplash, herniated discs, and other spinal injuries can cause chronic pain and limitations in mobility.
- Fractures and broken bones: Truck accidents can cause broken bones of varying severity, requiring extensive surgery and rehabilitation.
- Lacerations and burns: Depending on the nature of your truck accident, deep cuts, road rash, and burns can occur. These severe injuries can leave permanent scarring and disfigurement.
- Soft tissue injuries: Muscle strains, ligament tears, and other soft tissue injuries can cause significant pain and limit mobility.
Long-Term Effects
- Chronic pain: Many truck accidents can lead to chronic pain syndromes that require ongoing medical treatment and pain management strategies.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): The emotional trauma of a truck accident can manifest as PTSD, causing anxiety, depression, flashbacks, and nightmares.
- Disability: Severe injuries can lead to permanent disabilities, impacting your ability to work, perform daily activities, and live independently.
The severity of injuries in truck accidents can vary greatly depending on the specific circumstances of the crash, the size and type of truck involved, and your position within the vehicles. Early medical intervention is critical for improving the chances of full recovery after a truck crash. Be sure to keep records of all your medical visits and the bills you receive, as these will serve as valuable evidence in your personal injury lawsuit.
Wrongful Death
In some cases, truck accidents can be fatal. A fatal truck accident can result in wrongful death when a truck driver, trucking company, or other party acts negligently or recklessly, causing another person’s untimely death. In Texas, there are certain individuals who are eligible to file a wrongful death claim to compensate the victim’s family members for the financial damages they are facing after the loss of their loved one, including:
- The decedent’s surviving spouse
- The decedent’s surviving children
- The decedent’s surviving parents
- The decedent’s personal representative, executor, or administrator of their estate
Recovery from a truck accident can be long and arduous, potentially involving multiple surgeries, extensive physical therapy, and emotional counseling. The financial burden of medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing care can be overwhelming. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, seeking legal representation from our skilled truck accident attorneys in Houston is crucial because we can help you fight for fair compensation from the liable parties and ensure you have the resources needed for a full recovery.
Legal Challenges in Texas Truck Accident Cases
Truck accidents in Texas can present several legal challenges due to the complexity of the laws, the involvement of multiple parties, and the severity of the consequences. If you have been injured in a Houston truck accident, the legal path to securing compensation can be complex.
Key legal challenges you might encounter in a Texas truck accident lawsuit include:
Determining Liability
Establishing liability in truck accidents can be challenging due to the involvement of multiple parties. Determining who was at fault and to what extent each party is liable requires a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. Parties that can be at fault for truck accidents include:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The truck owner
- The vehicle manufacturer
- A part manufacturer
- Maintenance providers, such as mechanics or repair shops
- Cargo loaders
- Government entities responsible for designing, constructing, and maintaining roads
- Other motorists
Important steps in determining liability in personal injury cases include gathering evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, electronic logging device data, vehicle inspection reports, and accident reconstruction reports. Consult with our experienced Houston truck accident lawyers as soon as possible after your crash. We can help identify all potentially liable parties and pursue compensation from them.
Regulatory Compliance
Commercial trucks are subject to extensive federal and state regulations governing their operation, maintenance, and safety standards. Ensuring compliance with these Texas Transportation Code and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations and proving violations can be complex and require specialized knowledge of trucking laws. FMCSA regulations for large commercial vehicle owners and operators and commercial trucking companies include:
- Special training and driver testing requirements
- Safety fitness procedures
- Minimum insurance coverage requirements
- Record-keeping regulations
- Cargo and transportation of hazardous materials guidelines
- Driver requirements
- Trucking equipment regulations
- Emergency relief regulations and exceptions
- Commercial vehicle uses
- Qualifications of truck drivers and instructors
- Safe driving practices
- Parts and accessories requirements for safe trucking operations
- Hours of service requirements
- Inspection, repair, and maintenance regulations
- Drug and alcohol testing procedures
- Commercial driver’s licensing (CDL) standards
Understanding these regulations and how they apply to your specific truck accident case is essential. Our Houston truck accident attorneys have the experience to navigate the state and federal regulations that pertain to the trucking industry. We can identify all violations and use them to support your claim for compensation.
Insurance Coverage
Commercial trucking companies are required by Texas law to carry substantial insurance coverage to protect against liability in the event of accidents. However, navigating the insurance claims process and ensuring that victims receive fair compensation for their injuries and damages can be challenging, as insurance companies may prioritize their own interests over those of the injured parties.
As such, it is important to have help from an experienced Houston personal injury lawyer who can navigate the complexities relating to insurance coverage and negotiate effectively to secure maximum compensation for your injuries.
Proving Negligence
The burden of proof in Texas personal injury cases lies with you, the injured party, to demonstrate that the negligence of the defendants caused your accident and resulting injuries and damages. This proof requires gathering strong evidence such as the police report, accident scene photos, witness statements, truck driver logs, and maintenance records. Our skilled truck accident lawyers in Houston can help compile this evidence and build a compelling case.
Comparative Negligence
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system, known as proportionate responsibility, wherein you can still recover damages in a personal injury case if you were less than 51% at fault for your accident. If you are found to be partially at fault for your truck accident, any compensation you are awarded by a judge or jury may be reduced proportionally. Determining the degree of fault and defending against allegations of comparative negligence can be contentious in truck accident cases.
Evidence Preservation
Truck accidents often involve extensive property damage and serious injuries, making it crucial to preserve evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, photos, electronic logging device data, and vehicle inspection records. Failure to preserve evidence can weaken your case and hinder the ability to prove liability.
Jurisdictional Issues
Truck accidents that occur across state lines and / or involve parties from different localities can raise jurisdictional issues and complicate the legal process. Determining the appropriate venue for filing a lawsuit and navigating the laws of multiple jurisdictions may require legal counsel from one of Houston’s leading personal injury law firms. Our award-winning attorneys are knowledgeable regarding the state and federal laws governing truck accidents.
Investigating Commercial Truck Accidents and Truck Drivers
Investigating commercial truck accidents is crucial to determine the cause, hold negligent parties accountable, and ensure justice for the victims. The key elements involved in investigating truck accidents and truck drivers include who conducts the investigations, the factors investigated, and technology and data.
Parties Who Conduct Investigations
- Law enforcement: Police officers are the first responders at your truck accident scene. They will secure the area, document the scene with photos, measurements, and skid mark notations, interview you, the trucker, and other witnesses, and prepare a police report.
- Truck driver’s employer: The trucking company will likely launch its own investigation into the accident, potentially dispatching a safety team to the scene. Their primary concern may be to protect the company’s interests and minimize liability.
- Your Houston truck accident attorney: Prior to filing a lawsuit, we will conduct an independent investigation into your truck accident, gathering evidence to support your case. This may involve consulting with accident reconstruction experts to analyze the crash scene and determine how the accident happened, interviewing witnesses, and obtaining copies of the accident report, truck driver’s logs, maintenance records, and medical records.
Factors That Are Investigated
A thorough investigation into your commercial truck accident will focus on several key areas, including:
- The accident scene: Investigators will examine the scene, looking for debris, skid marks, damage to vehicles involved, and roadway conditions. Accident reconstruction experts can analyze this evidence to determine the sequence of events leading up to the crash.
- The truck: Investigators will inspect the truck for any mechanical problems that may have contributed to the accident, such as faulty brakes, tire defects, or steering malfunctions. Truck maintenance records will be reviewed to ensure the truck was properly maintained.
- The truck driver: The commercial driver will be interviewed about the events leading up to the accident. Investigators will look for signs of trucker negligence, such as distracted driving, driver fatigue, speeding or reckless driving, driving under the influence, and violations of traffic laws.
- The cargo: Improperly loaded or secured cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unbalanced and potentially leading to an accident. Investigators will examine how the truck’s cargo was loaded and secured.
- Federal regulations: As discussed, the trucking industry is governed by strict federal regulations regarding trucker qualifications, hours of service, and vehicle maintenance. Investigators will determine if these regulations were followed.
Technology and Data
- Event data recorders (EDRs): Many commercial trucks are equipped with black boxes that record data like speed, braking, and engine performance in the moments leading up to the crash. This data can be crucial in determining the cause of your accident.
- GPS tracking: Trucking companies often use GPS to track their vehicles. This data can be used to verify the truck driver’s route and hours of service compliance.
The complexities involved in investigating commercial truck accidents highlight the importance of hiring our Texas truck accident lawyers. Our experienced attorneys have the resources and experience needed to conduct a comprehensive investigation into your accident, understand federal and state trucking regulations, and counter any tactics employed by the trucking company or its insurers. By conducting a thorough investigation, we can increase your chances of holding negligent parties accountable and securing the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents
Big rig accidents can occur due to various factors, many of which are unique to the operation of large trucks. Our Houston tractor-trailer accident lawyers can investigate the cause of your accident and determine if you are eligible to recover compensation from the at-fault parties. Common causes of collisions involving 18-wheeler trucks include:
Driver Negligence
Truck driver negligence is a leading cause of truck accidents. We hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions, which may include:
- Distracted driving: Truck drivers can be distracted by using cell phones, eating, drowsiness, using navigation systems, or adjusting in-cabin controls.
- Drowsy driving: Long hours on the road can lead to fatigue, impairing a driver’s ability to stay alert and operate their truck safely.
- Speeding: Speeding is a common commercial motor vehicle driver violation and a major cause of jackknife and other truck accidents, especially considering the longer stopping distance required for large vehicles.
- Impaired driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs drivers’ judgment and reaction times, making it especially hard to maneuver large trucks.
- Reckless driving: Unsafe driving practices and aggressive maneuvers, such as tailgating, improper lane changes, and failing to yield the right of way, can cause dangerous situations for motor vehicles and pedestrians on Houston roadways.
- Driver fatigue: Federal regulations limit the number of hours a truck driver can continuously be behind the wheel; however, many drivers may feel pressured to meet tight deadlines, leading to drowsiness and fatigue and impairing judgment and reaction time.
Trucking Company Negligence
Trucking companies have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their drivers and the public. We hold them accountable for negligence that may contribute to your accident, including:
- Improper hiring or training: Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers are properly qualified and trained to operate large commercial vehicles safely.
- Failure to maintain trucks: Regular maintenance is crucial for preventing mechanical failures that can cause accidents.
- Violating hours of service regulations: Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers adhere to FMCSA regulations regarding driving hours and rest periods to prevent fatigue.
- Overloading trucks: Trucks have weight limits for a reason, and overloading a truck can compromise its stability and handling, increasing the risk of rollovers and other accidents.
- Improper cargo loading and securing: Improperly loaded cargo can shift during transit, causing the driver to lose control or the truck to become unstable and potentially roll over.
Truck Manufacturer Defects
In some cases, truck accidents can be caused by malfunctions due to defective parts or design flaws. We can investigate potential product liability claims against:
- Truck manufacturers: If a defect in the truck’s design or manufacturing process caused your accident, we can hold the manufacturer liable.
- Parts manufacturers: Component failures like brake system malfunctions or tire blowouts due to defective parts can also be grounds for product liability claims.
Third-Party Liability
Truck accidents can sometimes involve other parties whose negligence contributed to your collision. These parties can include:
- Road construction companies: Poor road conditions, inadequate signage, or debris left behind by construction crews can create hazards that contribute to truck accidents.
- Government entities: Negligent maintenance of roads, bridges, or traffic signals can also be a factor in some truck collisions.
- Other drivers: If another motorist’s negligence caused the truck to swerve and collide with your vehicle, you may have a claim against that driver as well.
Other Factors
There are several other causes of truck collisions, also. These alternative causes include:
- Blind spots: Large trucks have extensive blind spots, especially on the sides and rear of the vehicle, which can increase the likelihood of accidents.
- Weather conditions: Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, fog, high winds, or snow and ice, can increase the risk of truck accidents by reducing visibility, decreasing traction, and impairing vehicle control.
- Unfamiliar roads: Truck drivers navigating unfamiliar roads may struggle to anticipate curves, traffic patterns, or potential hazards, increasing the risk of accidents.
Negotiating With the Trucking Companies and Their Insurance Companies
Negotiating with trucking companies and their insurance companies after a truck accident can be a complex and stressful process. Our personal injury lawyers are experienced when it comes to strategically communicating with insurance adjusters for trucking companies, understanding their insurance policies, and negotiating a fair settlement offer on your behalf.
Here are key strategies to increase your chances of securing maximum compensation from the liable parties for your damages:
- Gather evidence: Collect all documentation related to your accident, injuries, and medical treatment, including records and medical bills, lost wage documentation, the police report, and photos of the accident scene, your vehicle damage, and your injuries.
- Do not accept the first offer: Insurance adjusters for trucking companies are known for making lowball offers initially. Do not accept the first offer without consulting your truck accident lawyer and carefully considering the full extent of your economic and non-economic damages.
- Consult with a skilled Houston truck accident attorney: Our award-winning lawyers can negotiate with the insurance companies for the responsible parties on your behalf, understand the value of your case, become familiar with the applicable insurance coverage, and fight for maximum compensation for your damages. We can also handle complex legal issues and navigate communication with the parties representing the trucking industry and their insurers.
- Be clear about your needs: Clearly communicate the extent of your injuries, the impact the accident has had on your life, and the compensation you need to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
- Be prepared to walk away: If the insurance company is not offering a fair settlement, be prepared to walk away from the negotiation table. We can advise you on your options, which may include filing a lawsuit against the truck driver, trucking companies, or other responsible parties.
18-Wheeler Accident Statute of Limitations in Texas
In Texas, there is typically a two-year statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims. The two-year timeframe begins running on the date of your truck accident. Failing to file a claim within this time can result in the loss of legal rights to seek compensation.
In rare cases, exceptions to the statute of limitations may exist. However, it is best to consult with your lawyer to determine if any exceptions apply to your specific situation.
Contact Us To Learn More About Your Legal Options
At Williams Hart & Boundas, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial hardships you are facing after your truck accident. Our award-winning Houston truck accident lawyers are ready to listen to your story and get to work for you. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
Houston truck accident lawyers
The top–rated Houston truck accident lawyers at Williams Hart & Boundas are here to help guide you through every step of the legal process following a truck accident. Our truck accident attorneys are ready to assist you in getting the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free case review.