Truck Accident Lawyer
Texas Attorney for Truck Accidents in Galveston County
|
There are few experiences more frightening than being on a street or highway and seeing a large semi-truck barreling toward you — and realizing it’s going to hit you. Our experienced truck accident attorney at the Pascoe Law Firm is here to fight to protect your legal rights if you have been injured a truck wreck. You may try to swerve out of the way, but when an 18-wheeler or any other large commercial truck crosses into your lane, runs a red light, or blocks your way, it may be impossible to maneuver around the truck in time to avoid a collision. Commercial vehicles — particularly — are typically larger and heavier than the passenger car, minivan, or SUV you may be driving. A semi-truck can weigh tens of thousands of pounds, depending on whether it’s loaded, and be much longer than a passenger vehicle. A collision with a commercial vehicle, because of this size discrepancy, is more than likely going to result in much more severe injuries than a typical car accident. Our experienced Texas truck accident lawyer understands the overwhelming impact a collision can have on your life. We will help you understand your options and determine the next best steps in your specific situation. Call us today at (713)829-4317.
|
|
Statistics on Truck Accidents
In 2010, according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics truck accidents caused over 80,000 injuries and caused 3,675 fatalities. In many of these accidents it was not the truck driver who was recorded as the fatality. Often in truck accident it is a pedestrian, passenger, or the driver of the another vehicle who passes away. In 2018, Galveston County had 153 truck accident or vehicle accidents. Two of these accident resulted in a fatality occurring. However, there were many others accidents that occurred where the driver or passenger became seriously injured. When examining the number of truck accident comparatively to the numbers recorded for the national level it is shocking to discover the amount of injuries and fatalities that are associated with truck wrecks each year. Many of these large vehicles can weigh over 10,000 pounds.
Guide for Dealing with Injuries Sustained in a Texas Truck Accident
Get Medical Attention As Soon As Possible
First, please get medical attention you are hurt. If you need help finding medical attention the Pascoe Law Firm might be able to help you with this process. Medical treatment is important part of a truck accident case. The adjuster will evaluate your case based upon your injuries. If you do not go to the doctor the insurance company will assume that you were not injured. Think of the chiropractor or medical doctor as the author of your story of how this accident impacted your body. Their medical records will be the story how you were injured and your treatment and recovery.
Call the Police and Get a Police Report Following a Truck Accident
If possible, please remember to get a police report every time you have been in a motor vehicle accident. It is important to take photos of the collision before moving the vehicles, if safe to do so. Often times, the person who hit your vehicle might seem trustworthy and they might not want to go through insurance process. Make sure you protect yourself by getting the police report and taking photos.
Don't Admit Fault
The truth is that you don't know if a person you just met is trustworthy or not. You may be in shock from having an accident. You might not know how all the laws might apply to different facts. Never admit fault, even if pressed to make a statement declaring your responsibility. Be honest about the facts. But be a journalist—do not editorialize. Make sure to protect your self by not agreeing to anything until you know the full scope of your damage.
Exchange Information and Gather Information
Additionally, make sure to record the other driver's license number and insurance information to make sure they are not just giving you false information. Trade your telephone, address, insurance carrier, full legal name, license plate number, and additional contact information with all other drivers involved in the crash. Take Photos of your vehicle and the other driver's vehicle. Gather names and telephone number of any witness that might have seen the accident take place.
Representing Injury Victims Following Truck Crashes
The Pascoe Law Firm's Truck Accident Lawyer, John D. Pascoe, representing truck accident injury victims in the Galveston / League City areas. A Truck Accident is typically defined to as an accident that involves a truck, 18-wheeler, tractor-trailers, semi-truck, big rig, delivery truck, vans, or bus. Collisions with these trucks can cause serious injuries that require substantial compensation and time to recover. Large trucks have an increased risk and rate of accident than that for cars. Once these big rig get moving, its does take time for them to come to a stop. Large trucks do not have the handling of a sports car and it would be unreasonable to expect them to be able to turn or stop on a dime.
Truck Accidents Can Cause Death
In a study done at the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute, fatal crashes involving large trucks were looked at for a five-year period, with over 25,000 accidents. Although semi-trailers did account for over 60% of the total fatalities, this was attributed to the high miles accumulated. Dump trucks actually had the highest fatality rate per mile driven followed by sweeper, garbage and logging trucks. Semi-trailers came eighth overall when fatalities were listed per mile. A lot of different types of trucks come to mind when one mentions large trucks. However, there are many different types of large trucks and each has its own unique dangers associated with it.
Some typical types of large trucks are commercial trucks, 18-wheelers, garbage truck, cement trucks, delivery vans, tractor-trailer trucks, tanker trucks, big rigs, or even semi-trailer. Recently in Texas, it seems that a large percentage of truck accidents seems to be occurring near the Corpus Christi, Texas area. According to a study done by the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute, semi-trailer accidents accounted for 60% of the total fatalities. This is thought to be due to the high miles that these trucks travel. Dump trucks had the highest fatality rate for miles driven, followed by sweeper, and garbage trucks. When further examining the semi-trailer fatalities, while they did have the highest number of total fatalities, they ranked 8th for fatalities per mile driven.
Truck Accident Lawyer Helping Injury Victims of Truck Accidents
Common Causes of A Truck Accident
Our Truck Accident Lawyer at the Pascoe Law Firm is often asked what are some of the most common causes of Truck accidents. It is important to remember determining of the cause of truck accident can differs in each case. However, some typical causes of truck wrecks include: driver fatigue, alcohol-related issues involving truck drivers, improper training, inattentive driving, and improper loading of the truck by the trucking company. Other common causes are speeding or reckless actions of the truck driver, improper use of the truck, improper maintenance of the truck, and the truck driver or the trucking company failing to comply with safety regulations of the trucking industry. Large Trucks, for example tractor-trailers, 18-wheelers, and delivery vans, are hazards on the road when they fail to comply with the state and federal regulations of the trucking industry.
Common Types of Truck Crashes |
Causes of Truck Accidents |
Destruction of Passenger Vehicles in A Texas Truck Accident
In many truck accident cases, the truck has destroyed passenger vehicles and other small cars that it has collided into. It is important for truck drivers to remain focused on the road while behind the wheels of their trucks. Many truck drivers are aware of the potential dangers of their large trucks and are extra cautious while around other smaller cars. Unfortunately, truck accidents occur quite frequently in Texas. Sadly, each year and many of these truck accidents involve fatalities due to severe injuries. It is important for the public to understand the restrictions of these large trucks and avoid improper lane changes, quickly swerving in front of a truck, or trying to squeeze between two trucks. Often any misstep by either party could potentially lead to an accident occurring. Common causes for a truck Accident is where the driver is at fault include: tailgating, aggressive Driving, speeding, unsafe use of the passing lane, hydroplaning due to unsafe speed on a wet or ice roadway, jackknifing where the truck driver loses control. Often times a trucking company gives a truck driver unrealistic deadlines or fail to provide the driver with adequate training or time drive safely. When a truck driver is not experienced it puts the public and other motorist at risk. However, the most common causes for a truck accident to occur is because the truck driver speeding. When truck drivers feel the need to make up time by speeding it can lead to a tragic accident occurring. If a truck driver blows a tire while speeding it becomes even more challenging to control an 18-wheeler type truck.
Lawyer for Truck Accident and Truck Injuries
|
Our Truck Accident Lawyer wants you to know that the trucking industry is regulated by both federal and state laws. The federal regulations have to be followed in all 50 states. The trucking industry is heavily regulated in an effort to help protect the public who share the roadways with these large trucks who could be transporting dangerous products. The federal regulations for truck safety come from the U.S. Department of Transportation. The U.S. Department of Transportation creates the regulations for the areas of vehicle maintenance, size, driving operations of the Truck Company, and driver safety and training of the truck driver. The federal regulation is a complex area of law and it is important to stay up-to-date on the current developments and changes within the trucking industry. If a truck driver or trucking company fails to follow these regulations many could be waiting time bombs ready to explode in the form of a truck accident.
|
Regulations for Truck Drivers
Some of the important regulations that are within the trucking industry include:
- The number of hours that a driver can work within a day or week
- A truck driver is required to obtain a specialized type of license to operate a commercial vehicle (any type of truck,)
- Truck drivers are to be tested on a regular basis for the use of drugs and alcohol
- Truck drivers are able to drive up to 11 in one single day and only be able to work 14 hours in a single day.
- Additionally, there is a 34-hour restart rule for truck drivers. This rule allows a truck driver to restart every once per week.
- The truck driver must take breaks every each hours to use this rule and these breaks must last for at least a 30-minute rest.
Holding Trucking Companies Accountable For A Truck Accident
Unfortunately, many truck drivers and trucking companies fail to see the importance of these federal regulations and will violate these regulations. It is not uncommon for trucking companies to fall behind on many of these regulations which puts the public at risk and can lead to accidents involving a truck or 18-wheeler. It is important to have truck companies abide by these regulations to help reduce the risk of fatalities and accidents involving these large trucks. The federal regulations of the trucking industry as an attempt to have these trucks safely coexist with other passenger vehicles who share the road. If truck drivers would follow these regulations it would lower the risks of accidents with the public and also save themselves from the potential physical injuries they might suffer from being involved in an accident. Often times you hear of a truck accident that was caused from driver fatigue. If the driver would take breaks and follow the limits for the amount of time they can drive and work it would help protect themselves and the public from accidents that are caused by driver fatigue. A tired driver is almost or just as dangerous, maybe even more, than a drunk driver. Many of these truck drivers are required to make careful maneuvers and need to be focused to drive and keep these trucks out of a position that could cause injury to the public. Furthermore, these regulations also protect the road ways and highways that are used every day. Trucks carrying a load over the maximum amount allowed causes damage to the roadways. It literally can break the roads. The damage to the road can lead to other types of vehicle accidents from drivers trying to void road damage. Additionally, the damage to the road the needs to be fixed and is an economic damage caused by the trucking company and truck driver not following the federal regulations for the trucking industry.
Increased Risk of Truck Wrecks
Our Truck Accident Attorney hates to hear of a truck driver or trucking company failing to follow these safety regulations. Failing to follow the regulations set in place for the trucking industry increases the risk of truck accident occurring. However, violating the safety regulations for the trucking industry can also lead to substantial fines and civil punishment for breaking the law. In some situations, violations of the federal trucking regulations can possible lead to criminal sanctions in some case. Not to mention the potential for the trucking company and truck driver are subject to civil lawsuits and may be forced to pay large amounts of money to injury victims as recovery for the damage their negligence caused. When someone is injured in a truck wreck it is not uncommon for them to look a law that shows the negligence of the truck driver. If the injury victim were rear-ended by a truck the fact that the truck driver failed to stop could be negligent by its self by causing an accident. Truck drivers have a responsibility to properly control their trucks and failing to properly keep a safe distance of to stop before hitting another vehicle. The truck driver’s actions would be in violation of the federal regulations placed upon truck drivers.
The Truck Accident Process
The Accident
Truck accidents can change your life in an instant. Before you assume the worst, find a safe place and seek medical attention. When you’ve been hurt in an truck accident, your first concern should be your health. The impact could have left you with serious injuries of the spine, neck, back, or more. Your injuries could disrupt work, family, and personal obligations. However, they don’t have to have a long-term negative impact.
Your Medical Care
Treating your injuries is a priority. Try not to feel overwhelmed with the thought of paying for your medical expenses – focus on getting healthy first. If your injuries require immediate medical attention, you may find yourself in a hospital or a doctor’s office. This may cause some anxiety, and that’s completely natural. At this point, you’re likely wondering how you’re going to pay for your medical care and how much your insurance will cover. To make matters more stressful, you may be visited by members of law enforcement in order to complete their accident report. Remain calm and do not admit fault for the accident. If you have questions about what you should disclose in your accident report, contact us to learn more about your rights.
The Scene, the Police Report, and Notification
The accident scene tells a story. The at-fault insurance company will have their side. Make sure you gather enough information to tell your side. If you don’t have to immediately leave the scene to tend to injuries, you should gather contact information and document everything: take pictures, talk to witnesses, etc. During this time, stay calm and don’t admit fault. Always report the accident to police and then your insurance provider. Most importantly, once you are able, talk to an truck accident lawyer at the Pascoe Law Firm. We recommend talking to a lawyer before speaking with an insurance company.
Vehicle Repairs
Understanding the damage to your vehicle and whether it can be fixed is important. The first thing to assess is whether your vehicle is drivable, which also gives you a sense of the repairs needed. If the damage is minor, then having the vehicle repaired may be the best step. If you have adequate car insurance coverage, you may be able to be reimbursed for rental car expenses while your vehicle is being repaired. If not, we may be able to make a claim against the other driver’s insurance company. Some vehicle damage is so severe that fixing the vehicle isn’t the best option. The repair shop and your insurance provider may not have your best interests in mind when it comes to repairing your vehicle. Call us so we can fight to help you get what you deserve.
Paperwork and Phone Calls
You’re going to get an incredible amount of mail and phone calls related to your accident, insurance claim, and bills. Let us take care of that for you. When you have been hurt in a truck accident, it’s inevitable that you’re going to be hit with an onslaught of paperwork – most of which will seem completely foreign to you. This is where hiring a personal injury lawyer who values open communication is incredibly important. At the Pascoe Law Firm, we think it’s important to minimize the stress you feel due to your accident. We go to painstaking efforts to handle all communication with the insurance companies, law enforcement, and medical professionals related to your accident. We also strive to keep you informed throughout the process, so you know exactly where your case stands.
A Denied Insurance Claim or a Settlement Offer
After investigating your accident, the insurance company may offer you a settlement. Don’t sign it. If your claim is denied, don’t give up. Insurance providers are in the business of making money. It’s common for insurance carriers to offer a settlement that is well below what you deserve. The amount owed to you should be based upon medical bills, vehicle repairs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We can help you make sense of what has been offered and determine whether the insurance offer should be accepted, or if a counter demand should be made. If your claim has been denied, you may still have options. There are a number of valid reasons why an insurance company might deny your claim. However, there are also situations where your claim is unjustly denied.
Demanding Appropriate Compensation
Your claim is likely worth more than you’ve been offered. We can help determine the true value – and then work to get you what you’re owed. Once all of your damages and expenses related to your accident are understood, then your personal injury lawyer will put together an initial demand or a counter demand, if an initial settlement offer was presented by the insurance carrier. The insurance provider then must decide to accept the demand, continue to negotiate with your lawyer, or deny the demand. Let the experienced Truck Accident Lawyer at Pascoe Law Firm handle this for you.
Settling Your Case or Going to Trial
Many cases can be settled without having to go to trial. However, when negotiations break down, a trial may be necessary. A settlement occurs when both parties are able to come to terms on a dollar amount. When this happens, the case does not go to trial. Instead, an agreement is signed by both parties and you are issued a settlement check. If the case goes to court, the judge or jury will decide whether or not you should receive compensation. The court will render a judgment against the other party if the case is found in your favor. Remember, you don’t pay until we win.
Attorney for Truck Accidents in Galveston County
If you have been injured in a truck accident, call the experienced Truck Accident Attorney at the Pascoe Law Firm today. We offer free case evaluation for truck accident injury victims and their family members. With the Pascoe Law Firm you will have a Texas Truck Accident Attorney who understands the special regulations and rules that apply in truck accident cases. When a truck is a hurry and causes an accident, please know that you have legal rights and options available to you. The Pascoe Law Firm will take the time to fully understand the challenges clients face, work to find answers to clients' questions, and help them take care of the medical and financial needs. Our Texas Attorney can investigate the accident and make the necessary insurance claims while you focus on your recovery. Everyone's situation is unique when it involves a truck wreck.
Truck Accident Attorney Ready To Protect Your Legal Rights
Regardless of the challenges you face, the Pascoe Law Firm will help you understand how the law applies to your truck accident case. Pascoe Law Firm will guide you through the legal process, from presenting demands, filing a law suit, preparing for and prosecuting your case at trial. Pascoe Law Firm's Truck Accident Lawyer knows that this is a stressful experience and is hear to answer any questions you may have in the Houston / Galveston areas. If you cannot come to our location we can come to you. If you or a loved one has been injured in an a truck accident involving a large truck or 18-wheeler, get medical attention immediately, and call our accident attorney as soon as you can. At the Pascoe Law Firm, our lawyer can explain your rights and fight for your behalf. Call our Truck Accident Lawyer at the Pascoe Law Firm at 713-829-4317. Hablamos español.
Truck Accident Frequently Asked Questions
Steps For After A Truck Accident
How Long Does It Take To Settle A Truck Accident Case Involving Involving Injuries?
How To Hire A Texas Truck Accident Lawyer
How Much Does It Cost For A Texas Truck Accident Lawyer To Represent Me?
Federal Trucking Regulations
What to Do When You are Contacted by an Insurance Company After a Truck Crash
What Are the Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents?
Truck Accident Insurance Claims
How Long Does It Take To Settle A Truck Accident Case Involving Involving Injuries?
How To Hire A Texas Truck Accident Lawyer
How Much Does It Cost For A Texas Truck Accident Lawyer To Represent Me?
Federal Trucking Regulations
What to Do When You are Contacted by an Insurance Company After a Truck Crash
What Are the Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents?
Truck Accident Insurance Claims
Areas We Service
Truck Accident - Reports and Research - Galveston County / League City
Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Involved Crashes and Injuries by Texas County - 2013
Large Truck Accidents Causation Study (LTCCS) Analysis Series: Using LTCCS Data for Statistical Analyses of Crash Risk
The Effect of State Regulations on Truck-Crash Fatalities
Severity Factors for Truck Drivers’ Injuries
In Study, Texting Lifts Crash Risk by Large Margin
Large Truck Accidents Causation Study (LTCCS) Analysis Series: Using LTCCS Data for Statistical Analyses of Crash Risk
The Effect of State Regulations on Truck-Crash Fatalities
Severity Factors for Truck Drivers’ Injuries
In Study, Texting Lifts Crash Risk by Large Margin
|
|
|
Webpage is intended solely for residents of Texas or Persons seeking representation within Texas. An Attorney-Client relationship only occurs when both parties agree that the Attorney will represent the Client and will not be created until that agreement occurs. Website and all of its pages is intended to be used for educational purposes and does not constituted as legal advice. All information on every page of the website does NOT suggest or claim that the attorney has a specialization in any area of legal practice or certification. Attorney not certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specializations.
"John is very professional and great at what he does! He asks questions to be informed of your case so he can give you the best options and advice. He genuinely wants to help you and wants to make a good outcome for you. Would definitely recommend him to people needing his services!"
Pascoe Law Firm based on 70 reviews.
Read all testimonials
Pascoe Law Firm based on 70 reviews.
