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Experienced Legal Representation in Briar Forest
A collision with a semi-truck or commercial vehicle can change your life in an instant. In the Briar Forest area of Houston, heavy traffic near the Energy Corridor and major thoroughfares like Beltway 8 and Westheimer Road increases the risk of serious accidents. If you or a loved one has been hurt, working with a dedicated Houston Truck Accident Lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal path ahead.
Our firm understands the unique challenges that come with truck accident claims. Unlike standard passenger vehicle accidents, commercial crashes involve federal regulations, massive insurance policies, and powerful trucking corporations. We provide the localized support Briar Forest residents need to stand up against these entities.
Common Causes and Serious Injuries
Truck accidents are rarely simple. They often involve a combination of driver error and mechanical failure. Some of the most common causes we see in the Houston area include:
- Driver fatigue and Hours of Service violations
- Improperly loaded or secured cargo
- Distracted driving or navigating unfamiliar routes
- Inadequate vehicle maintenance (brake or tire failure)
- Blind spot collisions and wide-turn accidents
Because of the sheer size and weight of commercial rigs, the resulting injuries are often catastrophic. Victims may suffer from traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord damage, multiple bone fractures, or internal organ damage. These injuries require extensive medical treatment and long-term care.
What to Do After a Truck Accident in Briar Forest
Taking the right steps immediately following a crash can protect both your health and your potential legal claim:
- Call 911: Ensure Houston police and emergency medical services arrive at the scene.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries like internal bleeding or concussions may not show symptoms immediately.
- Document the Scene: If safe, take photos of the vehicles, the truck’s license plate, and any USDOT numbers on the cab.
- Identify Witnesses: Collect contact information from anyone who saw the accident occur.
- Avoid Giving Statements: Do not give a recorded statement to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster until you have spoken with an attorney.
Understanding Fault and Liability
Determining who is responsible for a truck accident is more complicated than a typical car crash. Liability may rest with several parties simultaneously. This might include the truck driver, the trucking company that hired them, the manufacturer of a defective part, or the third-party company responsible for loading the trailer. Our team investigates the “black box” data, driver logs, and maintenance records to identify every party that contributed to your injuries.
Damages You May Recover
While every case is different, victims of truck accidents in Briar Forest may be eligible to recover compensation for various losses. These generally fall into two categories:
- Economic Damages: These cover quantifiable costs such as hospital bills, rehabilitation, lost wages, and loss of future earning capacity.
- Non-Economic Damages: These address the intangible impact of the accident, including physical pain, emotional distress, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life.
The Legal Process and Timeline
The road to recovery begins with a thorough investigation. We gather evidence, consult with accident reconstruction experts, and handle all communications with the insurance companies. Most cases begin with a demand letter and a period of negotiation. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take the case to litigation. While some claims resolve in months, complex truck accident cases involving multiple parties can take longer to ensure all future medical needs are accounted for.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a claim in Texas?
In most cases, Texas has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. However, evidence in truck accidents—such as driver logs—can be destroyed much sooner, so it is vital to act quickly.
What if the trucking company is based outside of Houston?
Even if the company is headquartered in another state, if the accident occurred in Briar Forest or anywhere in Houston, we can pursue a claim against them in the appropriate jurisdiction.
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.
Contact a Briar Forest Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you have been injured, you do not have to face the trucking companies alone. Our firm is committed to helping Briar Forest families secure the resources they need to move forward. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explain your options.
Call us today at (713) 747-7777 or contact us online to schedule your free case evaluation.