Killeen Truck Accident Lawyers for Semi-Truck Accidents
Dedicated Legal Support for Trucking & Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Central Texas
Accidents involving trucks and other commercial vehicles are among the most severe and deadly traffic collisions. These vehicles can include tractor-trailers, semis, 18-wheelers, tankers, box trucks, and more. They often cause severe injuries when striking passenger cars. In the worst cases, trucking accidents lead to catastrophic injuries and fatalities for motorists and smaller vehicle occupants.
Central Texas is home to some of the state's most dangerous highways, including I-35, US-183, and SH-130. These roads see a high traffic volume, including commercial trucks, which increases the risk of accidents. Motorists also tend to drive faster on these roadways, raising the potential severity of accidents.
At Michalk, Beatty & Alcozer, L.P., our Killeen personal injury lawyers have been representing truck accident and other injury victims for more than 25 years. We are known for our aggressive stance for clients against insurance companies.
Our skilled trial lawyers have the experience to handle even the most complex injury claims. We take proactive action to resolve issues and are committed to providing each client with the individualized attention they deserve.
Being involved in a truck accident can be a life-changing experience that impacts you physically, emotionally, and financially for years. Our role is to help you secure maximum compensation that enables you to rebuild your life and move forward with security.
You can reach Michalk, Beatty & Alcozer, L.P. through our online contact form or call (254) 765-9552 for a free consultation with a Killeen truck accident lawyer. Hablamos español.
Understanding the Risks of Truck Accidents in Texas
Many factors can be at play in trucking accidents, making them inherently more dangerous than car accidents. Trucks are significantly larger and heavier than passenger vehicles. Their considerable mass leads to a higher impact force during collisions, increasing the likelihood of catastrophic outcomes for occupants of smaller vehicles.
Furthermore, trucks that haul hazardous materials or heavy loads can create additional dangers from falling or spilled cargo. These dangers can include fires, chemical exposure, and road blockages.
Trucks have longer stopping distances, requiring more time and distance to come to a complete stop. They also have bigger blind spots, in which drivers may be unable to see traffic behind them.
Key Insights on Texas Truck Accident Laws
For those affected by an accident with a commercial vehicle, understanding Texas truck accident regulations is crucial. Due to the substantial size and weight of these vehicles, accidents often result in serious injuries, highlighting the need to be well-versed in the legal framework. As dedicated trucking accident attorneys in Killeen, we strive to guide prospective clients through these complex legal challenges.
How Fault is Determined in Trucking Accidents
In Texas, truck accidents are handled under a fault-based system, which means that the driver who caused the collision is liable for any injuries sustained. It might be difficult to assign blame when there are several parties involved, such as the truck driver, the trucking business, and even the truck or part manufacturer. However, attorneys handling truck accident cases at Michalk, Beatty & Alcozer, L.P. can investigate these accidents to determine who is at fault.
Understanding State and Federal Trucking Regulations
State and federal laws control the trucking industry. These laws address a variety of topics, including weight restrictions, maintenance specifications, and the maximum number of hours a driver may work without stopping. Disregarding these requirements may be used as proof of carelessness in a truck accident lawsuit.
Important Deadlines for Filing Truck Accident Claims
In Texas, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim relating to a truck accident. In order to make sure you make this deadline, you must move quickly. You can forfeit your right to compensation if you don't comply.
Potential Compensation for Truck Accident Victims
In truck accident instances, damages may include lost wages, medical costs, pain and suffering, and other things. Speak with knowledgeable Truck Accident Attorneys in Killeen, Texas at Michalk, Beatty & Alcozer, L.P. as these lawsuits can be quite complex and have significant financial implications. Our truck accident lawyers can offer the specific legal knowledge required to handle the complexities of truck accident legislation and support you in obtaining the damages you are entitled to.
The Complexities of Truck & Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Truck accidents are significantly more complicated than standard car accidents for several reasons:
- Multiple parties involved: Unlike car accidents often involving just two drivers, truck accidents can involve a complex web of potentially liable parties as follows.
- The truck driver: Their negligence (distracted driving, speeding, fatigue) is significant.
- The trucking company: They may be responsible for inadequate driver training, improper truck maintenance, or pressuring drivers to violate safety regulations.
- Cargo loaders: Improperly secured cargo contributing to the accident can bring them into the picture.
- Vehicle manufacturers: Defects in trucks or their parts can cause accidents, leading to potential liability for the truck manufacturers.
- Third-party mechanics: Faulty repairs or maintenance on the truck by a third party could be a contributing factor.
- Government agencies: Poor road conditions or inadequate signage could play a role.
Determining who is liable and to what extent requires a thorough investigation to untangle the above web of potentially responsible parties.
- Complex regulations: The trucking industry is heavily regulated by federal and state laws governing everything from driver qualifications and hours of service to vehicle maintenance and cargo securement. Building a solid case often involves proving violations of these specific regulations and demonstrating how they directly contributed to the accident.
- Severity of injuries: Trucks' sheer size and weight often lead to more extreme injuries in collisions. This translates to potentially higher medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care needs for victims, making the stakes much higher in these cases.
- Insurance issues: Trucking companies typically carry significantly higher insurance policies than individual drivers. However, dealing with these insurance companies can be even more challenging, as they have vast resources and experienced legal teams dedicated to minimizing payouts.
- Data preservation: Trucks are often equipped with electronic data recorders (EDRs, also known as black boxes) that can capture crucial details about the accident, like speed and braking data. Preserving and interpreting this data requires specific knowledge and can be vital evidence.
- Reconstruction challenges: Reconstructing the events leading up to a truck accident can be more complex due to the larger vehicles involved, the potential for multiple impacts, and the role of factors like cargo weight distribution. Accident reconstruction experts can play a critical role in piecing together the sequence of events.
Why Choose Michalk, Beatty & Alcozer, L.P.? Our Commitment to You
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Unyielding Commitment to JusticeWe strive to ensure that all persons have access to a legal process that is fair, open, transparent, and holds those who infringe on your rights accountable.
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Relentless Pursuit of Fair CompensationWe advocate to secure the maximum compensation you deserve, recognizing the profound impact your lawsuit can have on your livelihood.
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Empathetic Guidance Through AdversityWe stand by your side with unwavering support and understanding, providing guidance and reassurance during what may be one of the most challenging times in your life.
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Resolute Advocacy for Your RightsWith determination and expertise, we navigate the complexities of the legal system on your behalf, steadfastly protecting your rights and interests at every turn.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
The most common causes of truck accidents include fatigue, alcohol or drug abuse, failure to conduct proper inspections, speeding, failure to load trucks properly, distracted driving, and unsecured cargo.
These forms of negligence can be used to establish a personal injury claim against the at-fault party and their insurance company.
What Steps Should You Take After a Trucking Accident?
Immediately after the accident, the trucking company will hire a lawyer to represent its interests. It is equally important that you have a strong advocate on your side.
After a truck or commercial vehicle collision, you should check for injuries and seek medical attention. Consulting with a medical professional is essential, even if you do not have apparent injuries that require emergency room care. Some injuries do not manifest until hours or days after an accident. Furthermore, you will need medical records to support your claim.
You should also contact the police and file a report. You will need as much information about the accident as possible, including:
- Contact information for the driver and the trucking company
- Photos of the scene of the accident
- Contact information from any witnesses
We take the initiative when investigating the details of the accident and know how to look for more information that can point to its cause. Our team can work with accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and other professionals. These experts can provide authoritative testimonials about the cause of the accident and the extent of your injuries.
Our FAQ
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 254-765-9552 today!
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What are some of the most dangerous highways in central Texas?Some of the most dangerous highways in Central Texas include I-35, US-183 and SH-130. These highways see a high volume of traffic, including commercial trucks, which increases the risk of accidents. Drivers also tend to drive faster on these roads, increasing the potential severity of an accident.
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What are the most common causes of truck accidents?
The most common causes of truck accidents include:
- Fatigue
- Alcohol or drug abuse
- Failure to conduct proper inspections
- Speeding
- Failure to load a truck properly
- Distracted driving
- Cargo that is not properly secured
These factors can all contribute to accidents, which are often more severe due to the size and weight of commercial trucks.
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What steps should I take after a trucking accident in Texas?
Immediately after the accident, the trucking company will hire a lawyer to represent its interests. It is equally important that you have a strong advocate on your side.
After an accident, you should check for injuries and seek medical attention. Talking to a medical professional about the accident is important, even if you do not have obvious injuries that require emergency room care.
You should also contact the police and file a report. You will need as much information about the accident as possible, including:
- Contact information for the driver and the trucking company
- Photos of the scene of the accident
- Contact information from any witnesses
We take the initiative when investigating the details of the accident and know how to look for more information that can point to the cause of the accident. We will work with accident reconstructionists, medical experts and other resources who can provide authoritative testimonials about the cause of the accident and the extent of your injuries. Our lawyers are here to stand by your side.
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Are commercial truck drivers required to have special training or licenses?Yes, commercial truck drivers are required to have special training and licenses. In addition to a standard driver’s license, they must also obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and pass a specialized test. They are also subject to federal regulations governing the number of hours they can drive, rest periods and other safety requirements.