Houston Truck Accident Lawyers

What Should I Do After a Truck Accident in Houston, TX?

Knowing what to do after a truck accident helps to protect your health and your legal rights. Here are some important steps to take if you’re involved in a truck accident:

1. Get medical care immediately. Even if you think your injuries are minor, see a doctor. Some injuries, like concussions or internal injuries, might not show symptoms right away.
2. Call 911. Report the accident to the Houston Police Department and request emergency assistance. A police report can be a valuable record of what happened.
3. Document the scene. Use your phone to take photos or videos of the vehicles, any injuries, skid marks, traffic signs, and road conditions. These details can help support your claim later.
4. Exchange information. Get the truck driver’s name, contact details, insurance information, and employer details. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact information too.
5. Don’t admit fault or make statements. Stay calm and avoid discussing fault or giving statements to insurance companies before talking to a lawyer. Even casual comments can be used against you.
6. Talk to a truck accident lawyer quickly. An experienced Houston lawyer can guide you, protect your rights, and handle the legal process for you.

At Thompson Law, we’re here to make this process easier. Call us for a free consultation. Let us take care of the legal work while you focus on recovering and getting your life back on track.

Breaking Down Truck Accident Statistics in Houston Texas

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 4,951 fatalities involving large trucks nationwide in 2019. That same year in Texas, 580 people died in crashes that involved a large truck. The Texas Department of Transportation reported a total of 16,708 crashes involving commercial trucks in 2019. Out of those wrecks, 632 occurred in Houston.

Some other key statistics on truck crashes in Houston Texas include:

• Over 15% of all truck crashes in Houston result in fatalities. That’s almost double the national rate.
• The most common truck crash injuries in Houston are spinal cord damage, head and brain trauma, broken bones, facial fractures, and severe burns.
• Crashes are more likely to happen on major highways in Houston like I-10, I-45, and the Sam Houston Tollway.
• The peak time for truck crashes in Houston is between 6-9 AM and 3-6 PM during rush hour.

These troubling statistics show why it’s critical to have an experienced Houston truck accident attorney on your side if you get hurt by a big rig.

Sources: FMCSA, NHTSA.

Examining Common Causes of Truck Crashes in Houston

Truck crashes can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes of trucking accidents in the Houston area include:

• Driver Fatigue – Truckers have limits on how many hours they can drive in a day. But violations of hours-of-service rules are common and can lead to exhausted driving. Drowsy truck drivers cause over 30% of all truck crashes.
• Speeding – Trucks with heavy loads require longer stopping distances. Excess speed gives truckers insufficient time to brake before an impact.
• Impaired Driving – Drug and alcohol use by truck drivers is more prevalent than many people assume. Intoxicated truck driving contributes to around 15% of all truck crashes.
• Distracted Driving – Eating, texting, talking on the phone, and messing with onboard computers while driving results in a lack of full attention to the road.
• Improper Maintenance – Lack of maintenance checks on equipment like brakes, tires, and lights means trucks aren’t road-safe. Equipment failure causes around 10% of truck crashes.
• Improper Loading – Improperly loaded, unbalanced, or overloaded trailers make trucks harder to control and easier to topple over.
• Jackknife Turns – Making too sharp of a turn at too high a speed can cause a truck’s cab and trailer to bend and fold up into a jackknife shape.
• Wide Turns – Trucks require wide turns and occasionally cross into oncoming lanes. Cars try to sneak by and get pinned under the truck’s rear wheels.

No matter what caused your truck crash, our Houston truck accident lawyers can help show the trucker, trucking company, or other parties were negligent.

Understanding Hours-of-Service Rules for Truckers in Houston

Federal regulations limit how many hours commercial truckers can be on the road:

• Maximum of 11 hours driving in a 14-hour period from start of day.
• Mandatory 10-hour break between 14-hour driving windows.
• Drivers can’t exceed 60 hours over 7 days, or 70 hours over 8 days.
• 34-hour resets are required weekly.

The main purpose of the hours-of-service rules is to prevent fatigued truck driving. However, many Houston truckers break these regulations by driving over their daily limits, not taking required breaks or off-duty time, or fudging their logbooks to hide violations.

Our Houston truck accident lawyers can obtain driver logs and records to check for rules violations leading to a crash. Hours-of-service transgressions show negligence that helps win injury claims.

Do You Qualify to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit?

If you got hurt in a truck crash caused by someone else’s negligence, you can typically file an injury claim seeking compensation. Damages could potentially cover:

• Past and future medical treatment
• Lost wages from missed work
• Reduced earning capacity
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
• Disability accommodations
• Funeral and burial costs in wrongful death

To have a valid case after a Houston truck wreck, you and your attorney must clearly prove 4 elements required for negligence to apply in Texas:

• Duty of care:  The trucker or trucking company owed a legal duty of care to you, such as to drive safely.
• Breach of duty:  The truck driver or trucking company violated their duty of care.
• Causation:  Breaching the duty of care caused your injuries.
• Damages:  You suffered harm, or damages, which can be translated into a monetary amount.

Working with our accomplished Houston truck accident lawyers improves your chances of proving these elements and getting a full and fair damages award.

Common Truck Accident Injuries in Houston

Because of their massive size and weight, commercial truck accidents often cause serious injuries. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. Head and Brain Injuries
   Hitting your head during an accident can lead to traumatic brain injuries like concussions or long-term memory and cognitive problems. For example, a victim might struggle with concentration or memory loss after a crash.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries
   Damage to the spine can result in partial or full paralysis, making everyday activities like walking or driving nearly impossible without assistance.
3. Broken Bones and Joints
   The impact of a truck accident often leads to fractures in arms, legs, or ribs. These injuries can require surgeries, physical therapy, and months to heal fully.
4. Internal Damage
   Blunt force from a collision can harm organs or cause internal bleeding. These injuries are not always visible right away but can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.
5. Severe Burns
   Fires or chemical spills from trucks can lead to painful burns that might need skin grafts and specialized treatment over a long period.
6. Amputation
   In extreme cases, a victim might lose a limb during the crash or need it surgically removed later, which can drastically change their way of life.
7. Emotional and Mental Trauma
   The emotional toll of a truck accident is real. Many people face anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), affecting their daily lives and relationships.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a truck accident, we are here to help. Our team will fight to get you compensation for your medical bills, therapy, and long-term care so you can focus on rebuilding your life.

Gathering Evidence for Your Houston Truck Wreck Claim

Collecting strong evidence is crucial when building a truck wreck case. A qualified attorney will immediately start gathering proof to demonstrate liability and damages. Key evidence can include:

• Accident scene photos
• Police reports
• Traffic camera footage
• Truck black box data
• Maintenance records
• Driver logs and duty statuses
• Witness statements
• Medical reports detailing injuries
• Lost income documentation

Quickly preserving evidence prevents it from getting lost or destroyed. An attorney also knows how to obtain warrants to gain access to locked black boxes, corporate records, and other private material.

What Compensation Can Truck Accident Victims Recover?

At Thompson Law, we ensure you receive comprehensive compensation to rebuild your life after a truck accident.

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Houston, you might be eligible for compensation to help cover your losses. This can include different types of damages, depending on the impact of the accident on your life.

Economic Damages

These cover the financial costs you’ve faced because of the accident, such as:

• Medical bills: This includes hospital stays, surgeries, therapy, and medications. For example, if you needed months of physical therapy after a spinal injury, those costs can be included.
• Lost income: If you had to take time off work or can no longer earn the same amount due to your injuries, you can seek compensation for those lost wages.
• Property damage: This might include repairing or replacing your car or other belongings damaged in the crash.
• Other expenses: Costs like transportation to medical appointments or hiring in-home care can also be reimbursed.

Non-Economic Damages

These cover the emotional and personal toll of the accident, such as:

• Pain and suffering: For example, dealing with ongoing pain or discomfort from a broken bone or nerve injury.
• Loss of enjoyment: If you can no longer do things you love, like playing sports or spending time with family, you can seek compensation for that loss.
• Emotional distress: Many victims face anxiety, PTSD, or depression after a traumatic accident.

Punitive Damages

In some cases, where the at-fault party acted recklessly or violated safety laws, punitive damages may be awarded. For example, if a truck driver was drunk or knowingly ignored federal safety rules, they could face additional penalties to hold them accountable.

At Thompson Law, we fight to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. Let us help you recover financially and emotionally so you can move forward after your truck accident.

Potentially Liable Parties in Your Truck Accident Case

Many parties could share blame for a truck crash. An attorney investigates which persons and companies may be liable, like:

• The truck driver him/herself
• The trucking company that employs the driver
• The shipping company that hired the carrier
• Vehicle maintenance shops
• Parts suppliers or manufacturers
• Cargo loaders
• Highway or traffic engineers
• State and federal agencies

Identifying all potentially liable defendants opens up multiple avenues for compensation for crash victims. Investigations look at how each party may have acted carelessly in relation to your truck accident injuries.

Maximize Compensation With a Truck Accident Attorney

Don’t settle for less than full value for your harms and losses. With our accomplished Houston truck accident lawyers, you can potentially recover maximum compensation by:

• Proving negligence occurred
• Documenting all crash-related costs
• Finding multiple liable defendants
• Uncovering corporate misconduct
• Having medical experts assess future needs
• Negotiating strategically with insurers
• Taking your case to court if needed

Avoid insurance company tricks to deny, delay, or reduce injury claims. Demand what you rightfully deserve.

How a Lawyer Can Boost Your Truck Accident Claim

At Thompson Law, our Houston truck accident attorneys have the experience and dedication to handle even the most challenging cases. We work hard to uncover the details of your accident, figure out who is responsible, and guide you every step of the way.

To build a strong case, we focus on gathering important evidence, such as:

• Eyewitness Statements: We talk to people who saw the accident to piece together what happened.
• Police Reports: Official reports often provide valuable details about the crash.
• Your Account: Your description of the events helps us understand how the accident has impacted you.
• Expert Testimony: Specialists like accident reconstruction experts and trucking industry professionals can shed light on technical details.
• Medical Records: These help show the extent of your injuries and the care you’ve received.
• Video Footage: Surveillance or dashcam videos can capture the crash as it happened.
• Photos of the Scene: Images of the vehicles, road conditions, and any damage can strengthen your case.
• Truck Maintenance Records and Driver Logs: These can reveal if the truck was in good condition or if the driver followed safety regulations.

Every truck accident is different, but our deep knowledge of Houston laws and trucking regulations allows us to handle even the toughest claims. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, let us fight for the compensation and justice you deserve. Call us today for a free consultation.

Tips for Finding the Best Houston Truck Accident Lawyers

Not all attorneys possess the resources and expertise to handle complex truck injury cases successfully. Look for seasoned personal injury lawyers with:

• Extensive truck litigation experience
• Large legal teams and financial assets
• A proven record of big case verdicts and settlements
• Technical resources to examine trucking data
• Respect from insurance carriers and defense lawyers
• Strong knowledge of both federal and Texas state trucking laws

Also choose attorneys who make client relationships a priority. They should communicate regularly, address all your concerns, and fully explain your legal options.

Common Types of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents happen in many ways, and each comes with unique dangers. Here are some of the most common types of truck accidents in Houston:

1. Rear-End Collisions
   Big trucks take much longer to stop than smaller vehicles. If a truck driver is distracted or speeding, they can slam into the back of a car, often causing serious injuries.
2. Jackknife Accidents
   A jackknife happens when a truck’s trailer swings out at an angle, like a folding knife. This can block multiple lanes of traffic and lead to chain-reaction crashes.
3. Underride Accidents
   Smaller cars can slide under a truck’s trailer during a collision, especially if the truck doesn’t have proper guards. These crashes often cause severe injuries or fatalities.
4. Rollover Accidents
   If a truck driver takes a turn too fast, carries unbalanced cargo, or drives recklessly, the truck can tip over. A rollover puts everyone around the truck in danger.
5. Blind Spot Collisions
   Trucks have large blind spots on all sides. If a truck driver doesn’t check carefully before changing lanes or turning, they can hit cars they didn’t see.
6. Tire Blowouts
   A sudden tire blowout can cause the truck driver to lose control, swerving into nearby vehicles and creating hazardous conditions.
7. Wide-Turn Accidents
   Trucks need a lot of space to make turns. If the driver misjudges, they can hit cars, pedestrians, or even structures like light poles.

If you’ve been involved in any type of truck accident, our Houston lawyers are here to help. We will investigate what happened, determine who is responsible, and work to get you the compensation you need for your recovery.

Contact Thompson Law About Your Houston Texas Truck Crash Case

Call Our Houston Truck Accident Lawyers Today!

Don’t wait to call our accomplished Houston truck accident attorneys after a devastating collision. The sooner we start building your injury claim, the better your chances of a full financial recovery. Call us for a free consultation at (844) 308-8180 or contact us online to get started.

We don’t collect a fee unless we obtain compensation in your case. Let us fight to get you the maximum truck accident settlement or court award possible.

Why Choose Thompson Law?

When it comes to truck accident claims, having the right legal team makes a big difference. At Thompson Law, we are dedicated to helping truck accident victims in Houston get the justice and compensation they deserve. Here’s why you can trust us:

No Fees Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay anything upfront. We only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you.

Proven Results

With over 350 years of combined experience and more than $1.9 billion recovered for our clients, we have the expertise to achieve the best possible outcome.

Quick and Easy Process

Getting started is simple. You can reach out anytime, and you’ll speak directly with a lawyer. From signing up on your smartphone or computer to getting your case underway, we make the process as easy as possible.

Available 24/7

Accidents can happen at any time, which is why we’re here 24/7 to provide the support and legal assistance you need, whenever you need it.

Personalized Attention

Every case is unique, and we treat our clients with the respect, compassion, and care they deserve. You’ll be kept informed and supported throughout the entire process.

Bilingual Support

We offer bilingual services for Spanish-speaking clients, ensuring that language is never a barrier to getting the justice you deserve.

At Thompson Law, we handle every detail of your truck accident case, from investigating the crash to negotiating with insurance companies and preparing for trial if necessary, so you can focus on your recovery.

Texas law limits the time you have to file a claim after a trucking accident, so don’t wait! Call us today for a free consultation, and let our Houston truck accident lawyers fight for the justice and financial relief you deserve.

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

What are the time limits for filing a truck accident lawsuit in Texas?

For personal injury cases, you normally have two years from the date of a truck crash to file a claim before the statute of limitations expires. Wrongful death cases must be filed within two years of the date of death.

Should I give a recorded statement to a trucking insurance company?

No. Anything you say can be used against you later. Politely decline to provide a statement until you have legal counsel.

How soon after a crash should I hire a truck accident attorney?

Ideally within 1-2 days. Quick legal help maximizes the changes of building a winning case. Don’t wait weeks or months.

How much can I expect to receive in a truck accident settlement?

Potential settlements vary widely based on crash circumstances and the extent of losses. Experienced lawyers can accurately value cases. Some major truck wreck verdicts and settlements exceed $20 million.

When should I accept a settlement offer?

Don’t settle until you know the full extent of accident-related costs and losses. A lawyer can advise if an insurer offer is adequate or fair. Settlements ending lawsuits must be approved by a court.

Can I still recover damages if I was partly at fault in the truck crash?

Yes, possibly. Texas follows modified comparative negligence rules. You can still recover reduced damages if under 50% at fault. An attorney can help show the trucker bears most of the blame.

How much are most truck accident settlements?

Truck accident settlements can vary significantly based on the severity of injuries, property damage, and other factors. On average, settlements range from $50,000 to $500,000. For cases involving catastrophic injuries, such as spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or wrongful death, settlements can exceed $1 million.

What are most lawyer fees for a car accident?

We work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case.

How long do most accident settlements take?

The time to settle a truck accident case depends on the details of the case, the severity of injuries, and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate. Simple cases can settle within a few months, while more complex claims involving serious injuries or disputes can take 12 to 24 months or longer, especially if the case goes to trial.

What is the duty of the driver in case of an accident?

In the event of an accident, a driver has several legal duties:

1. Stop immediately and remain at the scene.
2. Check for injuries and call 911 for medical help if needed.
3. Report the accident to the police.
4. Exchange information with other involved parties, including names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information.
5. Avoid admitting fault and only provide necessary details to law enforcement.

What makes truck accident cases different from car accident cases?

Truck accident cases are more complex due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, the involvement of federal trucking regulations, and the potential for multiple liable parties.

In addition to the driver, trucking companies, cargo loaders, and vehicle manufacturers might share responsibility. These cases often involve larger settlements because of how much severe the injuries and damages tend to be.