Missouri City Truck Accident Lawyers

Get Lassiter or Get Less

Missouri City’s main Highway 90 sees a lot of throughput of commercial trucks since this highway spans most of the width of the state. Unfortunately, commercial truck accidents do happen, and when they do the potential for property damage and personal injury are significant. Commercial trucks often are some of the most severe accidents that can happen on the road, based on the size and weight of the trucks, as well as their cargo. Complicating it further, the multiple parties involved, the driver, trucking company, their insurance provider, can make getting your claim even more complicated.

At The Lassiter Law Firm, our experienced Missouri City truck accident attorneys are equipped to navigate the complexities of these cases. We thoroughly investigate each accident, examining driver logs, maintenance records, black box data, and more to determine liability. Whether through negotiation or litigation, we are committed to securing the maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Let us handle the legal intricacies of your claim while you focus on recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help.

Learn More
Missouri City Truck Accident Injury Attorneys

Missouri City Truck Accident Lawyers

Missouri City’s main Highway 90 sees a lot of throughput of commercial trucks since this highway spans most of the width of the state. Unfortunately, commercial truck accidents do happen, and when they do the potential for property damage and personal injury are significant. Commercial trucks often are some of the most severe accidents that can happen on the road, based on the size and weight of the trucks, as well as their cargo. Complicating it further, the multiple parties involved, the driver, trucking company, their insurance provider, can make getting your claim even more complicated.

 

At The Lassiter Law Firm, our experienced Missouri City truck accident attorneys are equipped to navigate the complexities of these cases. We thoroughly investigate each accident, examining driver logs, maintenance records, black box data, and more to determine liability. Whether through negotiation or litigation, we are committed to securing the maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Let us handle the legal intricacies of your claim while you focus on recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help.

 

Common Causes of Commercial Trucking Accidents

Commercial truck accidents are some of the most severe and complex incidents on Missouri City’s roadways and can occur from several causes. Due to the immense size and weight of commercial trucks means that even minor incidents can lead to catastrophic injuries, extensive property damage, and significant legal challenges. Understanding the most common causes of these accidents sheds light on the dangers faced by motorists and nearby pedestrians and the critical importance of accountability in each case.

By identifying the common causes of commercial trucking accidents, we gain insight into the dangers faced by motorists and pedestrians and the steps necessary to ensure accountability. Below are some of the most frequent causes of these devastating incidents and how negligence plays a critical role in many cases.

Driver Fatigue

Truck drivers frequently face grueling schedules that demand long hours behind the wheel, often with insufficient rest. Fatigue impairs a driver’s ability to make quick decisions, slows reaction times, and can even lead to microsleep – brief, uncontrollable lapses in attention. Despite federal regulations, such as the Hours of Service (HOS) rules, which limit the number of hours a driver can operate their vehicle, the pressure to meet tight delivery deadlines or maximize earnings often results in violations. Driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of commercial truck accidents, as drowsy drivers are more likely to make critical errors or fall asleep at the wheel.

Improperly Loaded Cargo

The proper loading of cargo is critical to maintaining a truck’s balance and stability. Overloaded trucks or unevenly distributed weight can cause significant handling issues, such as tipping over on sharp turns or jackknifing during emergency stops. In some cases, cargo may not be adequately secured, leading to items shifting during transit or spilling onto the roadway, which can trigger chain-reaction accidents involving multiple vehicles. Loading errors can often be traced to negligence on the part of warehouse workers, freight handlers, or trucking companies failing to adhere to safety standards.

Poor Vehicle Maintenance

Commercial trucks are complex machines that require regular inspections and maintenance to operate safely. Key systems like brakes, tires, and steering mechanisms must be kept in optimal condition to ensure the vehicle can respond appropriately in various road conditions. A neglected brake system, for instance, can fail to stop a truck in time to avoid a collision, while worn tires are more likely to blow out at high speeds. Trucking companies are legally obligated to maintain their fleets, but cutting corners on maintenance to save time or money often leads to dangerous equipment failures and accidents.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a significant problem for all motorists, but the consequences are amplified for commercial truck drivers due to the size and weight of their vehicles. Common distractions include texting or talking on a cellphone, using navigation systems, eating or drinking, and even adjusting the radio. Inattentive driving, even for a few seconds, can prevent a truck driver from reacting to sudden changes in traffic, such as a car braking abruptly or a pedestrian crossing the street. Given the extended stopping distances required for large trucks, even minor distractions can result in catastrophic collisions.

Adverse Weather Conditions

Weather conditions such as rain, fog, snow, and high winds create additional challenges for truck drivers. Reduced visibility, slippery road surfaces, and longer stopping distances make it difficult for even the most experienced truckers to maintain control of their vehicles. For instance, a sudden downpour can cause hydroplaning, where tires lose contact with the road, while strong crosswinds may cause a lightly loaded trailer to tip over. Drivers must adapt to adverse weather by slowing down, increasing following distances, and using extra caution, but many fail to take these precautions, leading to preventable accidents.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

The pressure to meet tight delivery schedules often compels truck drivers to exceed posted speed limits, especially on highways. Speeding not only increases the likelihood of accidents but also magnifies the severity of collisions when they occur. Commercial trucks already have limited maneuverability and require greater distances to stop, and excessive speed compounds these challenges. Aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating, frequent lane changes, or failing to yield, can further heighten the risk of accidents, particularly in heavy traffic or construction zones.

Inadequate Training

Operating a commercial truck requires specialized skills and knowledge, including the ability to navigate blind spots, manage large loads, and react effectively in emergencies. However, some trucking companies prioritize speed over safety when hiring and training drivers, resulting in under qualified individuals operating these massive vehicles. Insufficient training can lead to poor decision-making, improper use of brakes or gears, and an inability to safely negotiate sharp turns or narrow roadways. Lack of experience can also make drivers ill-prepared for unexpected hazards, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

 

Common Injuries From Commercial Trucking Accidents

Accidents involving commercial trucks often result in severe injuries that could result in permanent life-altering consequences. The immense size and weight of these vehicles amplify the force of impact, causing catastrophic damage to smaller passenger vehicles and their occupants. These accidents can result in a wide range of physical, emotional, and financial challenges that may require extensive medical care and long-term rehabilitation. Below are some of the most common injuries suffered in commercial trucking accidents:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

The immense force of a truck collision often results in head injuries as victims may strike the interior of the vehicle, dashboard, steering wheel, or other objects. Traumatic brain injuries can range from mild concussions with temporary symptoms to severe brain damage leading to cognitive impairments, memory loss, and permanent disabilities. Victims of TBIs often require extensive rehabilitation and may experience long-term effects on their ability to work, communicate, or perform everyday tasks.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are among the most devastating outcomes of trucking accidents, often resulting in partial or complete paralysis. These injuries typically occur when the spine is compressed, twisted, or fractured during the impact. Depending on the severity, victims may lose motor function or sensation below the injury site, requiring ongoing medical care, physical therapy, and assistive devices. The financial and emotional toll of spinal cord injuries can be immense, affecting both the victim and their family.

Broken Bones and Fractures

The sheer force of a trucking accident often leads to broken bones, especially in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Some fractures are simple and may heal with minimal intervention, but more severe injuries, such as compound fractures, can require surgical repair, metal plates, or screws. Recovery from broken bones can take months and may involve painful rehabilitation. In severe cases, fractures can result in chronic pain or limited mobility.

Internal Injuries and Organ Damage

Blunt force trauma from a trucking collision can cause significant internal injuries, including damage to vital organs such as the liver, kidneys, spleen, and lungs. Internal bleeding is a common complication that may not be immediately apparent but can quickly become life-threatening without prompt medical intervention. These injuries often require emergency surgery, extended hospital stays, and ongoing monitoring to ensure proper recovery.

Severe Lacerations and Burns

Shattered glass, sharp metal debris, or the risk of vehicle fires during a trucking accident can lead to deep cuts, severe lacerations, or burns. These injuries often demand extensive medical treatment, including stitches, skin grafts, reconstructive surgery, and long-term physical therapy. Victims may also face permanent scarring, disfigurement, or functional impairments, which can significantly impact their self-esteem and quality of life.

Whiplash and Neck Injuries

The violent jolt of a trucking accident can cause the neck to snap forward and backward, resulting in whiplash. Although often considered a minor injury, whiplash can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion if not properly treated. Neck injuries may also involve damage to the cervical spine, muscles, or ligaments, necessitating physical therapy and long-term pain management.

Chest Injuries

Chest injuries are particularly common among drivers and passengers who are restrained by seat belts during a truck collision. Victims may suffer bruised or fractured ribs, lung injuries, or even damage to the heart. These injuries can lead to complications such as difficulty breathing, punctured lungs, or cardiac trauma, which require immediate and sometimes invasive medical intervention.

Emotional and Psychological Trauma

In addition to physical injuries, many victims of trucking accidents suffer from emotional distress, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Psychological injuries can manifest as nightmares, flashbacks, or a fear of driving, significantly affecting the victim’s quality of life. Treatment often includes counseling, therapy, and sometimes medication to help victims regain a sense of normalcy.

 

Why Call A Missouri City Commercial Truck Accident Lawyer

Commercial truck accident cases are far more complex than standard car accident claims. Unlike typical collisions, these cases often involve multiple parties, such as the truck driver, the trucking company, their insurance provider, and, in some instances, the manufacturers of the truck or its components. Each of these parties may share responsibility, and they frequently employ experienced legal teams and insurers to minimize their liability. This makes navigating the claims process daunting for victims who are already coping with the aftermath of a traumatic accident.

The aftermath of a commercial truck accident can feel like your world has been turned upside down. The physical pain from serious injuries, combined with the emotional toll of trauma and uncertainty about the future, can be overwhelming. On top of these challenges, dealing with trucking companies and their insurance providers who often use every tactic to avoid full accountability can leave you feeling powerless. Navigating this process alone can be incredibly difficult, making experienced legal support not just helpful but essential.

 

Commercial Truck Accident Attorneys Available 24/7

Commercial trucks are constantly on the move, making accidents involving these large vehicles a possibility at any time of day or night. That’s why our dedicated team at The Lassiter Law Firm is available 24/7 to provide immediate assistance. Whether you’ve just been involved in an accident or need guidance on your case, our experienced lawyers are ready to step in and help.

The aftermath of a commercial truck accident can be overwhelming, leaving victims to manage injuries, financial stress, and uncertainty about their legal options. Our legal team is here to guide you through this challenging time, offering the support you need to focus on your recovery. If you have questions about your accident or want to understand your legal rights, contact us today for a free consultation. Let us advocate for you and help secure the compensation you deserve.

 

Complexities of 18-Wheeler Accidents

Collisions involving 18-wheelers are significantly more complicated than standard car accidents due to the sheer size and weight of these large trucks, the serious injuries they can cause, and the numerous parties that may be held liable. Managing the aftermath of these accidents demands thorough investigations, a deep understanding of both state and federal trucking regulations, and a strategic legal approach to secure fair compensation for victims. Below are some of the unique challenges that make 18-wheeler accident cases particularly complex:

Multiple Responsible Parties

Unlike a standard car accident where fault often lies with one or two drivers, 18-wheeler accidents frequently involve multiple parties who may share liability. The truck driver may be responsible due to negligence or error, but liability can also extend to the trucking company for inadequate training, poor hiring practices, or pushing drivers to exceed legal limits. Maintenance crews, cargo loaders, and even the manufacturer of the truck or its parts may bear responsibility if their actions or products contributed to the accident. Determining fault requires a meticulous examination of contracts, maintenance logs, driver logs, and other documentation to uncover who played a role in causing the collision.

Federal and State Regulations

The trucking industry is governed by strict regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and state laws. These rules govern nearly every aspect of trucking, including limits on hours of service (HOS) for drivers, vehicle maintenance schedules, weight limits, and cargo securing methods. Violations of these regulations such as falsified driver logs, overloading, or skipped maintenance, can be pivotal in establishing liability. However, uncovering such violations often requires a legal team with in-depth knowledge of these regulations and the ability to interpret data from sources such as electronic logging devices (ELDs) and inspection reports.

Severity of Injuries and Damages

The sheer size and weight of 18-wheelers mean that collisions often result in devastating injuries and fatalities. Victims may suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, internal organ damage, and other life-altering conditions that require prolonged medical care and rehabilitation. These cases also involve substantial property damage, often leading to total vehicle loss for smaller passenger cars. Calculating damages in an 18-wheeler accident case must take into account not only immediate medical expenses and lost wages but also future costs such as long-term care, ongoing therapy, loss of earning capacity, and pain and suffering. This complexity underscores the importance of building a comprehensive and accurate valuation of damages.

Evidence Preservation

Evidence is critical in proving liability in 18-wheeler accidents, and time is of the essence to ensure it is not lost, tampered with, or destroyed. Key pieces of evidence include:

  • Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Data: Records of driver hours and rest breaks, which may reveal violations of HOS regulations.
  • Black Box Recordings: Data from the truck’s onboard computer, which can show vehicle speed, brake usage, and other operational details at the time of the accident.
  • Maintenance and Inspection Records: Documentation showing whether the truck was properly maintained or if any mechanical issues were overlooked.
  • Dashcam Footage: Video evidence that may provide crucial insights into the moments leading up to the crash.

Insurance Complications

Trucking accidents often involve multiple layers of insurance coverage, including policies held by the driver, the trucking company, and possibly third-party contractors. These insurers may attempt to shift blame or minimize payouts, leading to a highly contentious claims process. Navigating these complexities requires a legal team experienced in negotiating with insurers and understanding how to uncover the full extent of available coverage.

Protecting Against Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies after a commercial truck accident can be one of the most daunting hurdles for accident victims. Insurance adjusters can try to protect their company’s bottom line, often using tactics designed to reduce or deny your claim. At the Lassiter Law Firm, we understand these strategies and are committed to shielding you from unfair practices, ensuring you receive the full compensation you are entitled to under the law.

Tactics Insurance Companies Use

Insurance companies may employ various strategies to minimize payouts, delay settlements, or avoid liability altogether. Common tactics include:

  • Quick Lowball Settlements: Shortly after the accident, adjusters may offer a fast settlement, often for an amount far below the true value of your claim. These offers are designed to entice victims into settling quickly, often before they fully understand the extent of their injuries or damages.
  • Blame Shifting: Adjusters may attempt to place partial or full blame for the accident on you, leveraging Texas’s comparative fault laws, which can reduce your compensation if you are found partially at fault.
  • Disputing Medical Claims: Insurance companies frequently question the severity of injuries or the necessity of medical treatments, arguing that they are unrelated to the accident or exaggerated. This tactic is often used to justify lowering the payout.
  • Delaying Tactics: By prolonging the claims process, insurers may aim to wear you down, making you more likely to accept a lower settlement out of frustration or financial desperation.

 

How We Protect You

At the Lassiter Law Firm, we act as your strongest advocate, countering insurance company tactics to get you the maximum compensation possible. Here’s how we protect your rights and fight for fair compensation:

  • Handle All Communication: From the moment you hire us, we take over all interactions with the insurance company. This prevents adjusters from pressuring you into making statements that could be misconstrued or used to weaken your case.
  • Negotiate Aggressively: Our attorneys have extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies. We know the tactics they use and the true value of your claim, and we won’t settle for less than what you deserve.
  • Gather Strong Evidence: To build a compelling case, we gather all necessary evidence, including medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimonies. This ensures that your damages are well-documented and irrefutable.
  • Prepare for Litigation: If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to court. Our trial-ready approach demonstrates that we won’t back down, often compelling insurers to offer fairer settlements to avoid litigation.

 

Holding Negligent Parties Accountable

Every truck accident is unique, and understanding its cause is essential to proving liability. Our legal team conducts a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact factors that contributed to the accident. This process may include:

  • Reviewing Police Reports and Witness Statements: These provide initial details about the accident and help identify potential violations or negligence.
  • Analyzing Photographs, Videos, or Surveillance Footage: Visual evidence of the crash site can reveal critical details, such as skid marks, road conditions, or traffic patterns.
  • Consulting Accident Reconstruction Experts: These experts can recreate the accident to determine how it occurred and who was at fault, using physics-based models and data from the crash.
  • Examining Trucking Logs and Maintenance Records: Electronic logging devices (ELDs), driver logs, and maintenance reports can uncover violations of federal regulations or evidence of negligence.
  • Analyzing Cargo Loading Practices: Improperly loaded or secured cargo is a common cause of truck accidents, and these records can pinpoint errors made by third parties.

This meticulous approach enables us to build a compelling case that identifies all responsible parties and demonstrates their role in causing the accident.

Identifying All Liable Parties

In commercial truck accidents, liability often extends beyond the truck driver. Several parties may share responsibility, including:

  • The Truck Driver: Negligence such as distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence often contributes to accidents.
  • The Trucking Company: Companies may be liable for hiring unqualified drivers, failing to train employees, or violating federal regulations, such as hours-of-service limits.
  • Cargo Loaders: Improperly loaded cargo can shift during transit, destabilizing the truck and causing accidents.
  • Maintenance Teams: Neglecting regular maintenance or repairing trucks improperly can lead to mechanical failures such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts.
  • Truck Manufacturers: Defective parts or design flaws in the truck itself can play a significant role in causing accidents.

By identifying all liable parties, we ensure that every potential source of compensation is pursued. This comprehensive strategy allows us to maximize recovery for victims and hold all negligent parties accountable for their actions.

Free Consultations

If you’re uncertain whether you have a claim after an accident or injury, the Lassiter Law Firm offers no-obligation, free consultations to help you get the answers you need. This initial consultation is designed to provide you with clarity and guidance without any financial commitment. We’ll listen to your story, review the details of your case, and help you understand your legal rights and next steps.

During your consultation, our experienced attorneys will evaluate the circumstances surrounding your accident or injury, identify potentially liable parties, and discuss the types of compensation you may be entitled to, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. This is your opportunity to ask questions and gain insight into the strength of your claim and the next steps in the process.

Commercial Truck Accident Lawyers Serving Missouri City

With over 20 years of experience representing commercial truck accident victims in Missouri City and the surrounding areas, our legal team of lawyers have the experience, skills, and knowledge required to advocate for the most compensation possible. We have helped countless other commercial truck accident victims get their compensation and justice, and are here to support you through every stage of the legal process.

Lassiter Law Firm is dedicated to advocating for your rights and holding negligent parties accountable so you can focus on healing and getting your life back on track. We are here to provide accessible, compassionate legal support to every client. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you get the compensation needed for your commercial truck accident.

Frequently Asked Questions for Commercial Truck Accidents in Missouri City

What Should I Do Immediately After a Commercial Truck Accident?

After a truck accident, prioritize your safety and seek medical attention, even if you don’t feel injured initially. Call the police to report the accident, collect the truck driver’s information, and take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and skid marks. Avoid discussing fault at the scene and contact an attorney as soon as possible to help preserve evidence and protect your rights.

 

How Is a Commercial Truck Accident Different From a Car Accident?

Truck accidents are more complex due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved, the severity of injuries, and the multiple parties that may share liability. Additionally, truck accidents are governed by federal regulations, such as those set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which require a thorough understanding of trucking laws to build a strong case.

 

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident?

Determining liability in a truck accident is often complex and involves multiple parties. Unlike typical car accidents, where fault is generally limited to the drivers involved, truck accidents can stem from the negligence of several individuals or entities throughout the trucking operation. Identifying all responsible parties is critical to ensuring victims receive full and fair compensation for their injuries and losses. Here are the key parties that may be held liable:

The Truck Driver

The truck driver is often the most immediate source of liability in a trucking accident. Drivers may be at fault due to negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving, or violating federal regulations like hours-of-service (HOS) limits. If driver error is a contributing factor, they can be held accountable for their actions.

The Trucking Company

Trucking companies are responsible for hiring qualified drivers, ensuring proper training, and maintaining a safe fleet of vehicles. They may be held liable for:

  • Negligent Hiring: Employing drivers with poor driving records, insufficient training, or a history of substance abuse.
  • Improper Training: Failing to provide adequate instruction on safety protocols, vehicle handling, or compliance with regulations.
  • Inadequate Maintenance: Neglecting regular inspections and repairs, leading to mechanical failures.
    Additionally, trucking companies may encourage unsafe practices by imposing unrealistic delivery schedules that pressure drivers to speed or skip rest breaks.

The Cargo Loading Team

Improperly loaded or secured cargo is a frequent cause of trucking accidents. Overloading, uneven weight distribution, or unsecured freight can destabilize a truck, causing it to tip over, jackknife, or lose control. If cargo-related issues contribute to an accident, the team responsible for loading and securing the freight may be held liable.

Vehicle or Parts Manufacturers

Defective truck components, such as faulty brakes, tires, or steering systems, can lead to catastrophic accidents. If a mechanical failure caused or contributed to the crash, the manufacturer of the defective part or vehicle may be held accountable under product liability laws.

Maintenance Crews

Regular maintenance is critical to ensuring a truck’s safety on the road. If a maintenance crew fails to properly service the vehicle—whether by neglecting necessary repairs, using substandard parts, or overlooking critical issues—they can be held liable for accidents caused by mechanical failures.

What Compensation Can I Receive After a Truck Accident?

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial hardships you’ve endured. Truck accident cases often involve significant damages due to the severity of injuries and the complexities of liability. Below are the key types of compensation available to victims:

Medical Expenses (Current and Future)

Truck accidents frequently result in serious injuries that require extensive medical care. Compensation may cover:

  • Emergency room visits
  • Hospital stays
  • Surgeries and procedures
  • Medications
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation
  • Assistive devices, such as wheelchairs or prosthetics

Additionally, if your injuries require ongoing medical treatment, such as long-term care or future surgeries, these projected expenses can also be included in your claim.

Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity

If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be compensated for lost income during your recovery. For victims with long-term or permanent disabilities, compensation can also account for reduced earning capacity, reflecting the difference between your potential future income and your post-accident earning ability.

Pain and Suffering

Truck accidents often leave victims with not only physical pain but also emotional distress, anxiety, and loss of enjoyment of life. Pain and suffering compensation aims to address these non-economic damages, which can have a profound impact on your overall well-being.

Property Damage

You can seek compensation to repair or replace your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident. This includes the costs of towing, storage, and loss of use while your vehicle is being repaired or replaced.

Punitive Damages

In cases where the truck driver or company acted with gross negligence or intentional misconduct—such as driving under the influence or knowingly violating safety regulations—you may be awarded punitive damages. These are intended to punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior in the future.

Factors That Influence the Amount of Compensation

The total compensation you can receive depends on several factors, including:

  • The severity and permanence of your injuries
  • The extent of negligence or fault of the responsible parties
  • The amount of insurance coverage available
  • The impact of the accident on your daily life and future

 

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim for a Truck Accident in Texas?

In Texas, you typically have two years from the date of a truck accident to file a personal injury claim. While this might seem like plenty of time, truck accident cases are often more complex than standard car accidents. Key evidence, such as driver logs, black box data, and maintenance records, can quickly become harder to obtain as time passes. Additionally, multiple parties, such as the truck driver, the trucking company, and their insurers, may be involved, making it essential to act quickly. Contacting an attorney as soon as possible ensures that critical evidence is preserved and that your claim is prepared thoroughly and within the required timeframe.

How Can a Lawyer Help With a Truck Accident Case?

Truck accident cases are often far more complex than standard car accident claims, involving multiple liable parties, extensive regulations, and substantial evidence requirements. Having an experienced attorney by your side can significantly increase your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. Here’s how a lawyer can assist you through every stage of your case:

Thorough Investigation and Evidence Gathering

A lawyer will conduct a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident to determine its cause and who is at fault. This process includes:

  • Collecting Black Box Data: Extracting information from the truck’s electronic logging device (ELD) or “black box,” which records details like speed, braking, and hours of operation before the crash.
  • Analyzing Maintenance Records: Reviewing logs to determine whether the truck was properly maintained or if mechanical failures contributed to the accident.
  • Securing Dashcam Footage and Witness Statements: Gathering visual evidence and eyewitness accounts to reconstruct the events leading up to the crash.
  • Examining Driver Logs: Checking for violations of federal regulations, such as hours-of-service limits, which may indicate driver fatigue or negligence.
    This meticulous approach ensures that no detail is overlooked and strengthens your claim.

Identifying All Liable Parties

Truck accidents often involve multiple parties, including the driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, maintenance crews, and even manufacturers of defective parts. An attorney will analyze the evidence to identify all responsible parties, ensuring that every avenue of compensation is pursued. This step is critical to maximizing your recovery, as trucking companies and their insurers often have substantial resources.

Handling Insurance Company Negotiations

Dealing with insurance companies can be intimidating, especially when they employ tactics to minimize or deny your claim. A skilled lawyer will:

  • Negotiate Aggressively: Counter lowball settlement offers and ensure the full value of your claim is considered, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future damages.
  • Protect Your Rights: Prevent insurers from using statements you make against you or pressuring you into accepting unfair settlements.
  • Uncover Policy Limits: Ensure all applicable insurance policies are accounted for, whether from the driver, trucking company, or third parties.

Filing a Lawsuit and Representing You in Court

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, an attorney will file a lawsuit on your behalf and prepare to take your case to trial. This includes:

  • Building a Strong Legal Argument: Presenting evidence, expert testimony, and legal analysis to prove liability and the full extent of your damages.
  • Navigating Legal Procedures: Handling all court filings, deadlines, and procedural requirements to avoid delays or dismissal of your case.
  • Advocating for You in Court: Representing your interests before a judge or jury to secure the compensation you deserve.

Providing Peace of Mind

A lawyer allows you to focus on your recovery by handling the legal complexities of your case. They protect your rights, navigate the challenges of truck accident claims, and advocate for your best interests every step of the way.

 

What if the Trucking Company’s Insurer Blames Me for the Accident?

Insurance companies may attempt to shift blame to reduce their liability. In Texas, you can still recover damages if you are less than 51% at fault, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. An experienced attorney will counter these tactics, gather evidence to support your claim and fight to minimize any assignment of fault.

 

How Long Will It Take to Resolve My Truck Accident Case?

The timeline for resolving a truck accident case depends on factors such as the complexity of the accident, the severity of injuries, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Some cases resolve within a few months, while others may take a year or more if litigation is necessary.

 

 

Contact A Commercial Truck Accident Lawyer

The Lassiter Law Firm has proudly served the residents of Missouri City and surrounding cities for over 20 years, standing by clients in their most challenging times and providing the experience and dedication needed to secure justice and fair compensation. Our dedication towards helping commercial truck accident victims allows us to ensure you are getting the maximum compensation you deserve to rebuild you life.

We approach each case with compassion, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to protecting your rights and holding negligent parties accountable.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, know that you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. The Lassiter Law Firm is here to guide you through every step, from gathering evidence and negotiating with insurers to advocating on your behalf. With our dedicated team by your side, you can focus on healing while we handle the complexities of your case. Contact us today for a free consultation, and take the first step toward recovery and justice.