Texas Commercial Truck Accident Lawyers
Securing Compensation & Justice for The Injured
As a Texas driver, you reasonably expect the trucks sharing the road with you to operate by the standards they are held to. However, negligence from any party on the road can lead to an accident that may cause severe injuries and significant property damage. Victims should seek legal counsel and representation from an experienced truck accident attorney to recover damages resulting from a truck accident.
Truck operations is a large industry composed of many companies and individuals. Pursuing compensation for a truck accident can be daunting because many of these companies have their dedicated legal team ready to represent their clients at every turn.
For over three decades, Hilliard Law has been dedicated to serving people who are injured due to others’ negligence. Our aggressive and compassionate advocates will fight to help you obtain compensation that fairly covers your losses.
Our experienced truck accident lawyers in Texas can help you fight for your rights while ensuring you receive the fair compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (866) 927-3420 for a free initial consultation.
Truck Accident Lawyers Helping Victims Recover Nationwide
At Hilliard Law, we are dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation to victims of commercial truck accidents in Texas and across the nation. With our in-depth knowledge of the laws and regulations pertaining to these accidents, we have successfully guided numerous clients to fair and just settlements.
These accidents can result in devastating injuries, significant property damage, and even loss of life. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks make them a formidable force on the road, and when negligence or recklessness comes into play, the consequences can be catastrophic.
Our Experienced Texas Commercial Truck Accident Lawyers
Our team of experienced Texas commercial truck accident attorneys understands the complexities involved in these cases. We know that determining liability and pursuing compensation requires a thorough investigation, professional analysis, and strong legal advocacy. That’s why we leave no stone unturned when it comes to building a solid case for our clients.
When you choose Hilliard Law to represent you, you can expect personalized attention and compassionate support throughout the legal process. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a commercial truck accident can take on you and your family, and we are committed to helping you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.
Our law firm also has a proven track record of success in handling commercial truck accident cases. We have recovered millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients, allowing them to move forward with their lives and recover from their injuries. We are not afraid to take on large trucking companies and their insurance providers, and fight to ensure laws and trucking practices are safe for other drivers on the road.
At Hilliard Law, we believe that everyone deserves access to top-notch legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we offer our services on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay any upfront fees or out-of-pocket expenses. We only get paid if we win your case, and our fee is a percentage of the settlement or verdict we secure for you.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial truck accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Time is of the essence in these cases, as evidence can be lost or destroyed, and statutes of limitations may apply. Contact Hilliard Law today for a free consultation, and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
What Is a Commercial Truck Accident?
A commercial truck accident refers to a collision involving a large truck and another vehicle or object. These large truck accidents can occur on highways, city streets, or even in parking lots. The impact of a commercial truck accident can be devastating, as the force generated by these vehicles can cause significant damage and injuries.
Commercial truck accidents can happen for a variety of reasons. Driver fatigue, for example, is a common cause of these accidents. Truck drivers often work long hours and may push themselves to meet tight deadlines, leading to exhaustion and impaired driving. Other factors, such as distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, can also contribute to commercial truck accidents.
How Do These Accidents Differ from Regular Car Accidents?
Commercial trucks, commercial vehicles, and truck operations are subject to harsher regulations than the typical passenger car. From operator training and certifications to vehicle maintenance, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration establishes federal regulations for trucks and trucking companies. These regulations set the bar for professional truck drivers and trucking corporations to meet.
The operation of a commercial vehicle requires extensive preparation, training, maintenance, and skill. Drivers, trucking companies, maintenance crews, and other parties are negligent when they fall short of the requirements set forth by governing bodies like the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Since their negligence could seriously endanger others, they should be held accountable to prevent similar accidents.
Violations of these regulations can have severe consequences. Not only do they increase the risk of fatal truck accidents themselves, but they also impact accident cases by establishing a clear disregard for safety standards on the part of the trucking company or driver. When pursuing a commercial truck accident lawsuit, it is crucial to thoroughly investigate whether any violations of these regulations occurred and how they contributed to the accident.
Interstate Trucking Regulations
Interstate trucking involves the transportation of goods across state lines. Due to the nature of these operations, the interstate commercial trucking industry is regulated by both federal and state laws. Understanding the nuances of interstate trucking regulations is essential when dealing with commercial truck accident cases that cross state borders.
When a commercial truck accident occurs in an interstate context, it can complicate the legal process. Different states may have varying regulations and requirements, making it necessary to navigate multiple jurisdictions. By working with our team at Hilliard Law, we are well-versed in interstate trucking regulations and can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Violations of These Regulations & the Impact On Accident Cases
When a trucking company or driver fails to comply with the regulations governing the industry, it can significantly impact accident cases. Our semi-truck accident lawyers will carefully review the details of the accident to identify any violations and demonstrate how they contributed to the occurrence of the accident and the resulting damages.
For example, if a truck driver exceeded the maximum allowable hours of service without taking the required rest breaks, it could be a violation of federal regulations. This violation may have contributed to driver fatigue, impairing their ability to safely operate the vehicle and increasing the likelihood of an accident. By establishing these violations, we can strengthen your case and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Cross-Border Accidents
Cross-border accidents can pose unique challenges since they involve multiple jurisdictions and different sets of regulations. In such cases, working with our attorneys who have experience navigating the complexities of cross-border accidents and can effectively advocate for your rights is crucial.
When a commercial truck accident occurs near a state border, determining which set of regulations applies can be complex. The laws of the state where the accident occurred may differ from the laws of the state where the trucking company is based. We are experienced in handling cross-border trucking accidents and can help ensure that all relevant regulations are considered and that your case is pursued in the appropriate jurisdiction.
Federal vs. State Claims
When pursuing compensation for a commercial truck accident, it is important to understand the difference between federal and state claims. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you may have the option to file a truck accident claim under federal regulations or pursue a state-level claim. At Hilliard Law, we can advise you on the right course of action based on the specific details of your case.
Federal claims typically involve violations of federal regulations, such as those set forth by the FMCSA. These claims may be appropriate if a violation of federal trucking regulations caused the accident. State claims, on the other hand, are based on state laws and may be pursued if the accident was caused by a violation of state regulations or common law negligence. We can help you determine which type of claim is most appropriate for your situation.
Class Actions & Mass Torts in Commercial Truck Accidents
In some cases, commercial truck accidents may involve multiple victims. A class action or mass tort lawsuit may be appropriate in such situations. These legal avenues allow multiple victims to bring their claims together, strengthening their position and increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
Class actions and mass torts can be complex, requiring extensive coordination among the victims and their legal representation. Victims can pool their resources and evidence by joining forces, making a stronger case against the responsible parties. Our team has experience handling class actions and mass torts and can help explore your legal options.
Your Rights & Responsibilities as a Victim
As a victim of a commercial truck accident, it is essential to understand your rights and responsibilities. You can take the necessary steps to protect your interests and build a solid case by being aware of your legal standing and obligations.
Determining Liability & Building a Strong Case
Determining liability is critical to building a strong case after a commercial truck accident. By identifying who can be held responsible for the accident, you can seek appropriate compensation for your damages.
Seeking Compensation for Your Damages
After a commercial truck accident, seeking compensation for your damages is essential to cover medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other losses you may have suffered as a result of the accident.
What Types of Compensation Can I Pursue After a Commercial Truck Accident?
After a truck accident, you may incur numerous losses from your injuries or from any property damage. If you can successfully establish that someone else’s negligence led to your accident, you may pursue compensation for all your accident-related losses.
Truck accident victims often recover damages for the following expenses and damages:
- Repairing or replacing a damaged vehicle
- Using alternate transportation
- Surgeries, prescriptions, and rehabilitation
- Income lost from missing work while recovering from accident injuries
- Reduced earning capacity due to permanent injuries
Your personal injury claim should seek compensation equal to all losses you have incurred due to the accident. Without the assistance of our personal injury attorneys, you may miscalculate the impact of a crash and the incoming future costs they will need to cover. We can assess your claim and establish how much compensation would reasonably account for your losses.
The Importance of Professional Witnesses & Investigations
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS real questions. Real answers.
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How do I report the accident to the authorities?
Reporting the accident to the authorities is essential in the aftermath of a commercial truck accident involving you. Contact the local police or highway patrol to report the incident. They will document the details of the accident and create an official report, which can be invaluable when building your case.
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What should I not do following a commercial truck accident?
While taking certain actions following a commercial truck accident is important, there are also things you should avoid. Do not admit fault or make any statements regarding your injuries or the accident to anyone other than the authorities and your attorney. Additionally, refrain from discussing the accident on social media platforms, as these posts can be used against you during the legal process.
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Who can be held responsible for commercial truck accidents in Texas?
Texas is an at-fault state, meaning whoever caused the accident is liable for paying for the damages. Injured accident victims in Texas have the right to hold at-fault parties accountable for the losses they generate.
Commercial truck accidents are often more complex when it comes to assessing liability because they generally involve more parties than regular vehicle accidents. Depending on your specific truck accident claims, a careful investigation may reveal multiple parties to be responsible.
Any of the following parties and others may be found liable for a truck accident:
- Truck operators who drive while distracted or intoxicated
- Employers who hire truck drivers without adequately vetting them
- Trucking companies who require drivers to operate past their hours of service
- Maintenance companies who fail to address known truck maintenance issues
- Cargo loaders who load cargo onto trucks improperly
As the plaintiff, you must provide evidence supporting your claim that someone else’s negligence directly led to your accident and subsequent losses. To help determine who may be liable, it is important to contact our team at Hilliard Law with our skills and resources to investigate and identify your specific legal options.
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What evidence should I collect to support my case?
Collecting evidence is crucial in establishing liability in a commercial truck accident case. Some essential evidence includes accident reports, witness statements, photographs of the accident scene, maintenance and inspection records, driver logs, and data from the truck’s event data recorder (EDR).
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How do I establish negligence on the part of the trucking company or driver?
To establish negligence on the part of the trucking company or driver, it is necessary to demonstrate that they breached their duty of care. This can be done by proving that they violated trucking regulations, failed to properly maintain the vehicle, engaged in reckless driving behavior, or were otherwise negligent in their actions.
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How can a lawyer help maximize the compensation I receive?
We can help maximize the compensation you receive by thoroughly investigating the accident, gathering compelling evidence, calculating the full extent of your damages, and negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf. Our experience and advocacy can greatly increase the likelihood of obtaining fair compensation for your losses.
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Are there time limits for filing a lawsuit in Texas?
Yes, there are time limits, known as statutes of limitations, for filing a lawsuit in Texas. It is important to consult with us as soon as possible to ensure you meet all necessary deadlines and preserve your right to pursue legal action.
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When is it time to consider a settlement and when should I proceed to trial?
Deciding whether to accept a settlement or proceed to trial is a critical decision based on your case's specific circumstances. We will carefully assess the strength of your case, the likelihood of success at trial, and the potential outcomes of both settlement negotiations and a trial before advising you on the right course of action.
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What does the legal process look like if we go to trial?
If your case goes to trial, the legal process will involve various stages, including jury selection, opening statements, witness testimonies, cross-examinations, presentation of evidence, closing arguments, and jury deliberation. Each stage is carefully orchestrated to ensure a fair and thorough evaluation of the case.
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How long can I expect a trial to take and what should I be prepared for?
The duration of a trial can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the court’s schedule. While some trials can be resolved in a matter of days, others may take weeks or even months. It is important to be prepared for the potential length of the trial and to have realistic expectations regarding the outcome.
Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Commercial Truck Accident in Texas?
Texas is an at-fault state, meaning whoever caused the accident is liable for paying for the damages. Injured accident victims in Texas have the right to hold at-fault parties accountable for the losses they generate.
Commercial truck accidents are often more complex when it comes to assessing liability because they generally involve more parties than regular vehicle accidents. Depending on your specific truck accident claims, a careful investigation may reveal multiple parties to be responsible.
As the plaintiff, you must provide evidence supporting your claim that someone else’s negligence directly led to your accident and subsequent losses.
Any of the following parties and others may be found liable for a truck accident:
- Truck operators who drive while distracted or intoxicated
- Employers who hire truck drivers without adequately vetting them
- Trucking companies who require drivers to operate past their hours of service
- Maintenance companies who fail to address known truck maintenance issues
- Cargo loaders who load cargo onto trucks improperly
To help determine who may be liable, it is important to contact our team at Hilliard Law with our skills and resources to investigate and identify your specific legal options.
Real Results ReaL Justice
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$50Wrongful Death
Million SettlementIn September 2021, Hilliard Law attorneys secured a $50 Million settlement for the family of a man who died in a commercial trucking accident.
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$21.5Distracted Driving Accident
Million VerdictMr. Hilliard was the lead trial attorney in a case involving a woman who was injured in a two-vehicle accident. The driver of the second car, an employee of Coca-Cola, was talking on her cell phone at the time of the accident.
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$20Catastrophic Injury
Million SettlementAfter a week of trial, a $20 Million settlement was reached on behalf of a man who sustained a severe traumatic brain injury and back injury resulting from a commercial motor vehicle rollover crash caused by defective road construction conditions.
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$7.5Rear-End Accident
Million SettlementHilliard Law recovered $7.5M for a client who sustained significant injuries after being rear-ended by a commercial truck.
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$6Truck Accident
Million SettlementHilliard Law attorneys achieved a $6M settlement for a man who sustained serious injuries after being struck by an 18-wheeler.
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$1.375Catastrophic Injury
Million VerdictIn 2019, Hilliard Law attorneys won a $1.375M jury for a man who sustained serious injuries in an automobile accident. This was a 2019 Top 100 Verdict.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Commercial Truck Accident?
After a commercial truck accident, it is crucial to prioritize your safety and well-being. If possible, move to a safe location away from the accident scene and check yourself and others for truck accident injuries. Below are several steps to take if you have been injured in a truck accident. These steps may facilitate a speedy and complete recovery as well as improve your long-term quality of life. You may also find these suggestions especially helpful if you decide to take legal action against the negligent parties.
Seek Medical Attention
We strongly recommend you seek medical attention after an accident if there is any chance you have been injured. Your medical health professional may help assess the situation, suggest a treatment plan, discuss the possibility of future medical attention, and more. Following a medical professional’s advice can help lead to a speedy and complete recovery. Additionally, acquiring accurate medical bills and doctor’s notes may be helpful if you choose to take legal action. Medical bills may help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for damages, and doctors’ insights will likely clarify critical points of what happened during the inciting incident.
Take Your Recovery Seriously
Understanding the Impact of Commercial Truck Accidents
Commercial truck accidents can have a devastating impact on both the victims and their families. These accidents often result in severe injuries, extensive property damage, and significant financial losses. The aftermath of a commercial truck accident can be overwhelming, as victims and their loved ones are left to deal with physical, emotional, and financial challenges.
The consequences can be catastrophic when a commercial truck collides with another vehicle or object. Commercial trucks' sheer size and weight, such as semi-trucks or 18-wheelers, make them more dangerous than regular passenger vehicles. The force of impact can lead to life-altering injuries, including broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and even death.
Understanding the unique nature of commercial truck accidents is crucial in order to build a strong case and seek appropriate compensation. These accidents can occur due to various factors, including driver negligence, distracted driving, improper maintenance, or violations of trucking regulations. Identifying the cause of the accident is essential in holding the responsible parties accountable.
It’s our mission to hold the powerful accountable for their wrongdoing. Reach out to our team immediately regarding your case to schedule a free attorney consultation today.
