According to 2021 data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 715 fatal crashes involving large trucks occurred in Texas during that year. That figure makes the state number one by a landslide when it comes to serious truck accidents.
Thousands throughout the state become victims of fatal and non-fatal truck crashes every year. If you are hurt in a Texas truck accident in search of support, you may have heard that it’s a good idea to contact a truck crash law firm. If you’re still debating whether you should, consider the following reasons why doing so can benefit your case in the long run.
Thoroughly Investigating the Accident
In any truck accident case, the burden of proof falls on the plaintiff’s shoulders; while police reports can be helpful, they usually only contain basic facts.
A truck accident attorney, in contrast, will go much further in their investigation. They’ll gain access to things like black box data, analyze driver logs and truck maintenance records, and they’ll also gather witness statements to help you build a strong case that’s more difficult to refute.
Identifying All Liable Parties
Truck crashes are notoriously complex. While it’s possible that the truck driver can be liable for their actions, you may also be able to hold the trucking company responsible for failing to have the vehicle properly maintained or requiring drivers to work more hours than permitted by law.
Cargo loaders and vehicle manufacturers may be at fault as well. With so many variables at play, an attorney can help you determine who is at fault and the best means of holding them accountable.
Negotiating With Insurers
Often, insurance companies trying to save money will try to pressure you into agreeing to a lowball settlement offer, taking advantage of the fact that you may be under financial stress and thus more tempted to accept. If that fails, they may simply dispute your version of the facts, suggesting they are not liable for your damages.
A truck crash law firm can protect you from the pressure of accepting an undervalued settlement, as your attorney will handle negotiations on your behalf. They understand the unfair tactics used by insurers and can use their knowledge of the law to ensure your rights are respected.
Valuing Your Accident Case
An experienced truck accident attorney will have deep experience with cases just like yours, understanding how to properly value your damages and ensure you are pursuing compensation that will cover them. They’ll know how to assess the wages you have lost from being out of work and the expenses you might incur from current and future medical treatments, so you’ll never have to worry about missing something.
Access to Expert Witnesses
Expert witnesses can provide specialized knowledge in your case. A truck accident law firm will work with accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, and economic professionals who can lend their understanding of the events of the accident, your medical treatments, truck engineering, and how your injuries and property damage will affect your financial outlook. Together, that information lends credibility to your claim and strengthens your case.
Litigation Experience
In some cases, negotiation isn’t possible due to the other party’s unwillingness to budge, and that could mean that you must take your case to trial. Unfortunately, that won’t be a walk in the park, as navigating court proceedings can be confusing for victims. Thankfully, a truck accident attorney with litigation experience can do the heavy lifting for you; they’ll prepare your case for court and aggressively represent you as you pursue a fair settlement.
Legal Guidance Throughout the Process
With so many moving parts, navigating the aftermath of an accident is never simple, but a truck crash law firm can answer your pressing questions, providing you with accurate legal advice and compassionate support to help you understand your options during these stressful times. Their clear communication can provide the comfort and confidence you need to keep moving forward.
FAQ
Can I Recover Compensation if I Am Partially at Fault for a Truck Accident?
Texas operates on a modified comparative negligence framework regarding truck accidents. You may be able to recover compensation for your damages provided you are not more than 50% at fault.
How Long Do Truck Accident Cases Take to Settle?
Truck accident settlements can take anywhere from a few months to several years to resolve. There is no standard timeline, especially if multiple parties are at fault or your injuries are severe and thus require several years of treatment.
What Factors Are Considered When Determining Appropriate Compensation in a Truck Accident?
When valuing a case, consider factors such as lost wages, medical expenses, the severity of your injuries, and the extent of your property damages. An attorney can help you weigh all of these aspects (and more) to determine appropriate compensation.
Fight for Your Rights With the Help of Our Truck Accident Attorneys
After a truck accident, it’s important to remember that insurers are not on your side. They’re busy trying to save as much money as possible, which often means disputing their liability and pushing you to accept low settlement offers that won’t cover the damages you have incurred. If you want to ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process, contacting a truck accident lawyer is your best bet.
At Ramsey Law Group, our attorneys have a keen understanding of the law and solid strategies for combating the insurance company’s tactics. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn about your options for pursuing compensation.