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Experienced Legal Representation for Alief Truck Wreck Victims
Navigating the aftermath of a commercial vehicle collision in Alief can be overwhelming. With heavy traffic flowing through Highway 6, Beltway 8, and the Westpark Tollway, the risk of a serious accident involving a semi-truck or delivery vehicle is a daily reality for residents. If you have been injured, working with a Houston Truck Accident Lawyer can help you understand your rights and hold the responsible parties accountable.
At our firm, we help individuals in the Alief neighborhood and throughout Southwest Houston who have suffered life-altering injuries. We understand the local roads and the specific challenges that come with taking on large trucking corporations and their insurance carriers.
Common Causes of Commercial Truck Accidents in Alief
Truck accidents are rarely simple. Because of the size and weight of these vehicles, even a low-speed collision can result in catastrophic damage. Common factors that contribute to these wrecks include:
- Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road often lead to exhausted drivers who may fall asleep at the wheel.
- Improper Loading: Unsecured or overloaded cargo can cause a truck to tip or make it impossible to stop in time.
- Equipment Failure: Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, or lighting issues often stem from poor maintenance.
- Distracted Driving: Using mobile devices or navigation systems while operating a massive vehicle is a recipe for disaster.
- Blind Spots: Many accidents occur when smaller passenger vehicles are caught in a truck’s “No-Zone.”
Serious Injuries Resulting from Truck Crashes
Victims of truck accidents often face a long road to recovery. We frequently see cases involving traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord damage, broken bones, and internal organ damage. These injuries require extensive medical treatment and can impact your ability to return to work.
What to Do After a Truck Accident in Alief
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the priority. Even if you feel fine, some internal injuries may not show symptoms immediately.
- File a Police Report: Ensure that the Houston Police Department or Harris County Sheriff’s Office creates an official record of the scene.
- Gather Evidence: If possible, take photos of the vehicles, the road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Identify Witnesses: Get contact information from anyone who saw the accident occur.
- Consult a Lawyer: Before speaking to an insurance adjuster, contact a legal professional to protect your interests.
Understanding Fault and Liability in Texas
Determining who is at fault in a truck accident is more complex than a standard car wreck. Multiple parties may share liability, including the truck driver, the trucking company, the vehicle manufacturer, or the maintenance contractor. Under Texas law, we must investigate whether federal trucking regulations were violated, such as hours-of-service logs or weight limits. Our goal is to identify every negligent party to ensure you receive the support you need.
Damages You May Recover
While every case is unique, victims of truck accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation. These generally fall into two categories:
- Economic Damages: These cover tangible losses like hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and future loss of earning capacity.
- Non-Economic Damages: These address the human cost of the accident, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
The Legal Process and Timeline
The process begins with a thorough investigation where we secure evidence like the truck’s “black box” data and driver logs. Following the investigation, we typically enter a negotiation phase with the insurance company. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take the case to court. While some cases resolve in a few months, complex litigation involving multiple parties can take a year or longer. We keep our clients informed at every step of the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer?
We work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only receive a fee if we successfully recover compensation for you.
How long do I have to file a claim in Texas?
Generally, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Texas is two years from the date of the accident. However, it is best to act quickly to preserve evidence.
What if the insurance company offers me a settlement?
You should consult with an attorney before signing anything. Initial offers are often significantly lower than what a victim actually needs for long-term care.
Contact an Alief Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in the Alief area, do not face the insurance companies alone. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and help you understand your legal options. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, effective representation for the Alief community.
Call us today at (713) 747-7777 or visit our contact page to schedule your free case evaluation.