UNDERSTANDING THE LAW
Truck and 18-Wheeler Accidents in Texas: Understanding Legal Rights and Compensation
Truck and 18-wheeler accidents can result in catastrophic injuries and extensive property damage due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. If you or a loved one has been involved in such an accident in Texas, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and options for seeking compensation. At KRW Lawyers, we specialize in representing victims of truck accidents and are here to guide you through the legal process. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the specifics of truck and 18-wheeler accidents in Texas and address common questions to help you pursue justice and recover damages.
Truck and 18-Wheeler Accidents in Texas Explained:
Trucking Regulations:
- The trucking industry is subject to federal and state regulations governing driver qualifications, vehicle maintenance, hours of service, and cargo securement, among other aspects.
- Violations of these regulations can contribute to truck accidents and may constitute negligence on the part of truck drivers or trucking companies.
Types of Truck Accidents:
- Truck accidents can take various forms, including rear-end collisions, jackknife accidents, underride accidents, and rollovers, each with its own causes and consequences.
- Identifying the specific type of truck accident is crucial for determining liability and pursuing compensation.
Liability in Truck Accidents:
- Liability in truck accidents may extend beyond the truck driver to include other parties, such as trucking companies, maintenance contractors, shippers, and manufacturers.
- Determining liability often requires a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, including driver logs, vehicle maintenance records, and witness testimonies.
Catastrophic Injuries:
- Due to the size and weight disparity between trucks and passenger vehicles, truck accidents frequently result in catastrophic injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and severe burns.
- Victims of truck accidents may face long-term physical, emotional, and financial challenges requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Pursuing Compensation:
- Victims of truck accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, disability accommodations, and vehicle repair or replacement costs.
- Working with experienced attorneys who specialize in truck accident cases can help maximize your chances of obtaining fair compensation for your losses.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Seek medical attention for any injuries, report the accident to law enforcement, collect evidence at the scene, exchange information with other parties involved, and consult with an attorney as soon as possible.
- The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a truck accident in Texas is typically two years from the date of the accident.
- Yes, if the trucking company’s negligence contributed to the accident, you may have grounds for a lawsuit against the company to seek compensation for your injuries and losses.
- Damages in a truck accident case may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and property damage.
- Yes, punitive damages may be awarded in a truck accident case if the defendant’s conduct was particularly egregious or reckless.
- Our experienced attorneys can help you navigate the legal process, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for your rights to secure the compensation you deserve
