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The bustling roads around Eldridge / West Oaks, including Highway 6 and the Westpark Tollway, see a high volume of commercial traffic every day. While these trucks are essential for the Houston economy, their size and weight make them a significant risk to other motorists. If you or a loved one has been injured in a collision involving a semi-truck or commercial vehicle, speaking with a Houston Truck Accident Lawyer is a critical first step toward protecting your rights.
Our legal team understands the unique challenges that come with trucking litigation. We help victims in the Eldridge / West Oaks area navigate the complex insurance requirements and federal regulations that govern the trucking industry. When you are facing a long recovery and mounting medical bills, you need a confident advocate to handle the legal heavy lifting.
Common Causes of Commercial Truck Collisions
Truck accidents are rarely simple. They often involve a combination of driver error and corporate negligence. In our experience, some of the most frequent causes of these devastating accidents include:
- Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to decreased reaction times and falling asleep at the wheel.
- Improper Loading: Unsecured or unevenly distributed cargo can cause a truck to tip or lose control.
- Equipment Failure: Poorly maintained brakes, tires, or steering systems are leading causes of mechanical failure.
- Blind Spots: Large trucks have significant ‘no-zones’ where smaller vehicles are invisible to the driver.
- Distracted Driving: Using mobile devices or navigation systems while operating a heavy vehicle.
Common Injuries in Trucking Accidents
Due to the massive force involved in a truck crash, injuries are often life-altering. We represent clients suffering from spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), broken bones, and internal organ damage.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Truck Accident
The actions you take in the minutes and days following a crash can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. If you are involved in an accident in Eldridge / West Oaks, follow these steps:
- Prioritize Safety: Move to a safe location if possible and call 911 immediately.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries do not manifest symptoms right away. A medical record is vital evidence.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of all vehicles involved, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Exchange Information: Get the driver’s license number, insurance details, and the name of the trucking company.
- Avoid Giving Statements: Do not admit fault or give recorded statements to insurance adjusters without a lawyer present.
- Contact a Lawyer: Reach out to a legal professional to begin an independent investigation.
Understanding Liability in Texas Trucking Accidents
Determining who is at fault in a truck accident is more complicated than a standard car crash. In Texas, multiple parties may share liability. This could include the truck driver, the trucking company that hired them, the maintenance facility responsible for repairs, or even the manufacturer of a defective part. Our team works to identify every liable party to ensure all avenues for recovery are explored.
Potential 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 quantifiable losses such as hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and loss of future earning capacity.
- Non-Economic Damages: These address intangible losses like physical pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
What to Expect During the Legal Process
The path to a resolution typically involves several key stages. First, we conduct a thorough investigation, which includes securing the truck’s ‘black box’ data and driver logs. Next, we file a claim and enter negotiations with the insurance companies. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take the case to court. Throughout the process, our goal is to keep you informed and provide the support you need to focus on your physical recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a truck accident different from a car accident?
Truck accidents involve federal regulations (FMCSA), much larger insurance policies, and usually result in more severe injuries. The evidence required, such as electronic logging devices, is also much more technical.
Who can be held liable for my injuries?
Liability can fall on the driver for negligence, the trucking company for poor training or maintenance, or third-party contractors involved in loading or manufacturing.
What does it cost to hire an Eldridge / West Oaks truck accident lawyer?
Most personal injury firms work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront costs, and we only receive a fee if we successfully recover compensation for you.
Contact an Eldridge / West Oaks Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you have been injured in the Eldridge / West Oaks area, do not wait to seek legal help. Evidence can disappear quickly, and trucking companies often have teams on the scene within hours. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and help you understand your options. Take the first step toward justice today.
Call us now at (713) 747-7777 or visit our contact page to schedule your free case evaluation.