When a truck accident turns your life upside down, JCJ Law Group is here to fight for what’s rightfully yours. We take on the tough battles against big insurers ensuring you get what you deserve. Don’t settle for anything less than total compensation. Contact our trucking accident injury lawyers in Houston for a free case evaluation.
Common reasons for truck accidents:
Driver fatigue
Truck drivers often face grueling schedules and tight deadlines, leading to long hours behind the wheel without adequate rest. Fatigue impairs reaction times, decision-making, and overall driving ability. In such situations, the trucking company can be held accountable for enforcing unrealistic schedules or failing to monitor compliance with rest regulations. Contact our trucking accident injury lawyers in Houston to see if you have a case.
Improper maintenance
A poorly maintained truck is a hazard on wheels. Commercial trucks require regular maintenance to ensure safety. Neglecting routine checks and repairs can lead to brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical issues. In this situation. the trucking company or the maintenance provider can be liable for neglecting necessary maintenance and repairs.
Overloaded cargo
Overloading a truck beyond its weight capacity can make it unstable and difficult to control. Overloaded trucks are more prone to tipping over, especially during sharp turns or sudden stops. In such situations, the cargo loading company or the trucking company can be held responsible for exceeding weight limits or improperly securing the cargo.
Reckless driving
Reckless driving behaviors, such as speeding, tailgating, aggressive lane changes, and ignoring traffic signals, significantly increase the risk of accidents, and the size of the truck amplifies the impact of collision. The driver can be held directly accountable for reckless behaviors, and the trucking company may share liability if it encouraged or ignored such actions. Our trucking accident injury lawyers in Houston will fight for you to get the compensation you deserve.
Distracted driving
Distractions like texting, eating, or using a GPS can take a driver’s attention away from the road. For truck drivers, even a momentary lapse in attention can result in catastrophic accidents due to the size and weight of their vehicles. Distracted driving is a leading cause of preventable accidents. In such situations, the driver is primarily responsible for maintaining focus.
Poor weather conditions
Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, fog, ice, and snow, create hazardous driving environments. Trucks require longer stopping distances and can easily skid or lose control on slick roads. In most cases, the driver is responsible for failing to adjust to weather conditions. However, the trucking company may share liability if it requires travel in unsafe weather.
Inadequate training
Operating a large commercial truck requires specialized skills and knowledge. Inadequately trained drivers may lack the ability to handle their vehicles safely, particularly in challenging driving conditions. The trucking company is responsible for ensuring its drivers receive adequate training and can be held liable if a lack of training leads to an accident. Contact our trucking accident injury lawyers in Houston for a free case evaluation.
Steps to take immediately after truck accidents:
- Ensure safety by moving to a safe location if possible and turning on hazard lights.
- Check for injuries and call 911 for medical assistance, even if injuries seem minor.
- Report the accident to the police and provide them with accurate details.
- Collect information from all parties involved, including names, contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers.
- Document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, damages, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Gather witness statements and contact information for anyone who saw the accident.
- Avoid admitting fault or making statements about the accident to anyone except the police.
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel fine, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Notify your insurance company about the accident and provide all necessary information.
- Consult with our trucking accident injury lawyers in Houston to understand your rights.
Steps we take to handle truck accident cases:
- Investigate the accident by gathering all evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and accident scene photos.
- Analyze the truck’s maintenance records, driver’s logbooks, and company compliance with safety regulations.
- Collaborate with accident reconstruction experts to determine the cause and fault of the accident.
- Communicate with medical professionals to understand the extent of your injuries and obtain detailed medical reports.
- Calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs.
- Negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement that covers all your losses.
- Prepare to take your case to trial if the insurer refuses to offer a reasonable settlement.
- Advocate for you in court to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
- Update you regularly on the progress of your case and address any concerns you have.
Truck accidents FAQs
Who can be held responsible for a truck accident?
Responsibility for a truck accident can fall on various parties:
- Truck Driver: For reckless driving, fatigue, or distraction.
- Trucking Company: For unrealistic schedules, lack of maintenance, or poor driver training.
- Maintenance Provider: For failing to service the truck properly.
- Cargo Loading Company: For overloading or improperly securing the cargo.
- Truck Manufacturer: For defects in the truck or its components.
Contact our trucking accident injury lawyers in Houston for a free case evaluation.
What types of compensation can I receive after a truck accident?
- Medical Expenses: Covers current and future medical bills related to the accident.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to inability to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for repairs or replacement of damaged property.
- Loss of Consortium: Compensation for loss of companionship or support from a loved one.
- Punitive Damages: Additional compensation if the truck driver or company’s behavior was particularly reckless or egregious.
How long do I have to file a truck accident claim?
In Texas, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Acting quickly is essential to preserve evidence and ensure your case is filed within this timeframe.
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