There are thousands of commercial trucks on Texas roads. Equally, there are many truck crashes in Texas, with over 550 deadly truck crashes reported in 2020 alone. Big trucks cause serious damage in crashes because of their size, and knowing the laws about trucks in Texas can help you protect both your health and your future claim after an accident.
Truck Rules in Texas
Federal and Texas laws work together to help both cars and commercial trucks be safer on the road. Here are a few of the key rules:
Driving Time Limits
Federal law sets clear limits on how long truck drivers can drive. These rules help stop tired driving, which causes many truck crashes. For example, drivers must take rest breaks and can't drive too many hours per day or week. Texas police check these rules by stopping trucks and looking at drive time records.
Truck Upkeep
Big trucks need regular checks to stay safe. Texas law says truck companies must keep records of all truck repairs and fix safety problems quickly. Companies that break these rules can face hefty fines and more blame if a trucking accident happens.
Insurance Rules
Texas requires truck companies to buy more insurance than regular drivers. This helps ensure there's enough money to pay people hurt in truck crashes. How much insurance they need depends on what they carry and where they drive.
Common Causes of Texas Truck Accidents
Truck accidents can happen for many reasons. Some of the most common reasons why trucks in Texas get into accidents include:
- Driver fatigue from working too many hours without rest
- Skipped or delayed truck maintenance and repairs
- Unsafe loading of cargo or loads that are too heavy
- Bad weather that makes it hard for trucks to stop safely
- Other drivers staying in truck blind spots too long
- Distracted driving, like using phones while driving
- Speeding or driving too fast for road conditions
Your truck accident lawyer can use this information to show who broke safety rules and should be held responsible.
Evidence in Truck Accident Cases
Getting proof of what happened right after your truck accident is vital for your case. Your lawyer needs to collect different kinds of information that can help prove your side of the story.
The Driver's Records
In Texas, truck companies are required to keep proper records about their drivers. The files should include information on the driver's driving history, training, health checks, and drug tests. Usually, these records can tell if a driver was fit to be on the road at the time of the accident.
Truck Data Recorders
Trucks in Texas have devices that record driving data. These track how fast trucks go, when they stop, and how long drivers work. Such data helps show what happened before a crash.
Safety History of the Trucking Company
Safety scores for truck companies show past rule-breaking, crashes, and safety checks. A history of breaking rules can help your case by showing the company has a record of careless behavior.
What Should You Do After a Truck Accident?
After a truck accident, make sure to take these steps:
- Get to a safe spot away from traffic, and turn on your hazard lights to prevent another crash
- Take clear photos of all vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries
- Collect names and contact details from the truck driver, their company, witnesses, and police officers
- See a doctor right away, since some injuries don't show up immediately
- Contact a lawyer before talking to any insurance companies about the accident
Taking these steps right after your accident helps build a strong case for fair compensation.
Why Do You Need a Truck Accident Lawyer?
Truck accidents are much more complicated than regular car crashes. To give yourself the best chance of success, hiring a lawyer is essential. A lawyer can assist you in a number of ways.
Determine the Liable Party
Your lawyer will consider everyone who could be responsible for your accident, from the trucking company to the truck manufacturer.
Calculate Your Costs
Your lawyer can calculate all your expenses in your truck accident claims, including:
- Medical bills you have now and might have in the future
- Income you lost by missing work
- Repairs to your car
- The cost of any therapy or rehabilitation you need
- The pain and suffering you've gone through
This helps you get a fair amount in your settlement.
Deal With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to pay you less than you deserve. Your lawyer knows their tricks and can fight to get you fair payment. They'll handle all the paperwork and phone calls while you focus on getting better.
FAQ
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in Texas?
In Texas, you usually have two years from the date of your truck accident to file a claim. Start early so that you have plenty of time to gather evidence and build a strong case.
What if the Truck Driver Claims I Was at Fault?
Your lawyer can help prove what really happened using evidence like camera footage, witness statements, and accident reports. Even if you were partly at fault, you may still be able to get compensation.
What Should I Say to Insurance Companies?
If an insurance company calls you, refer them to your lawyer. This helps protect your rights and keeps you from saying something that might hurt your case.
Get Help From a Skilled Texas Truck Accident Attorney
Dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming. However, you don’t have to go through it alone. At Ramsey Law Group, we understand the toll Texas truck accidents take, and we can protect your rights throughout the entire process.
Contact us today to discuss your situation and learn how we can help secure the compensation you deserve.