Trucking Accidents Lawyers Near Me
It is essential to seek legal assistance in the event that you or a person close to you suffers injury in a car crash. The trucking industry is complicated and a knowledgeable attorney will have the experience to ensure your rights are secured.
A professional investigation will identify any individuals who could be accountable for your claim. These include the truck driver, the trucking company and the owner of the freight.
Regulations for Trucking
The trucking industry is regulated by federal and state agencies which include the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These rules are designed to prevent the possibility of fatalities and injuries resulting from collisions between trucks and other vehicles. They also safeguard drivers, passengers as well as pedestrians who walk on the roads of public use.
The FMCSA has many regulatory requirements that all commercial vehicles and drivers must adhere to which include hours of service, drug and alcohol testing inspections, and certifications. If you're a truck driver you must be aware of these regulations and know them well. If you have been injured in an accident as a result of an infraction, you may be entitled to compensation.
Hours of service laws govern how long drivers can drive at a given time, and the length of breaks they must take between shifts. These rules are intended to keep truckers fit and avoid accidents due to fatigue.
The FMCSA also requires truck drivers to examine, repair and maintain their vehicles in a systematic manner. This includes daily inspections after each trip of basic equipment (tires lights, brakes, trailer connections) as well as more thorough periodic inspections within the previous 12 months.
Accidents involving trucks are usually caused by malfunctioning brakes or tires, as well as lighting. In these cases, drivers must slow down or stop driving to avoid damaging their vehicle and result in an accident.
Additionally the FMCSA requires trucking companies to continuously examine their drivers' performance and keep track of it in logbooks. This helps trucking companies assess whether their drivers are safe and efficient on the job.
Another regulation that affects trucking companies is the requirement for electronic logging devices (ELDs). These loggers, which are fitted in every vehicle and synchronized with engines, automatically record driving time. These loggers prevent drivers from falsifying their driving hours.
Drivers who fail to comply with these regulations could face fines and penalties. A professional will review the logbooks and records of your company to ensure that you are in compliance with the law and are not facing any penalties.
Jackknife Accidents
If you or someone you care about was injured in a jackknife incident it is imperative to seek legal counsel now. These cases can be more complex than regular car accidents, and determining who is at fault can be difficult.
Typically truckers are trained to avoid these types of accidents by following the rules of the road and taking precautions to ensure their vehicle is safe. They are expected to be extra cautious when driving around curves or abruptly stopping. They should also be aware that weather conditions can make it more difficult for trailers to lose control.
Even the most experienced drivers can encounter these kinds of accidents. A trucker who is speeding or braking too quickly could lose control of their vehicle, causing the trailer to hit the road and jackknife.
These accidents may cause severe injuries or even death, depending on the severity of the crash. They can cause neck and head injuries or damage to the spinal cord. Injuries to the body could include fractured bones, cuts and lacerations, and even amputations.
The aftermath of a jackknife truck accident can be devastating, especially when a loved-one was killed. In this situation, family members of the deceased may be able to seek compensation by filing a claim for wrongful deaths against the trucking company and/or driver.
truck injury attorneys in The Woodlands can help you follow up on your case, though many of these cases may take a long time to resolve. We will keep you updated on the progress of your case and we will not accept a settlement offer without consulting you first.
In order to prove negligence your lawyer needs to show that the trucker was negligent and did not take reasonable care when managing their vehicle. This includes making sure that the trailer is properly secured and that the brakes work correctly.
The legal team at Grimes & Fertitta understands how complex these cases can be, and we'll do our best to fight for your rights. We will look into every aspect of the accident and determine the cause so that we can build an effective case. We will fight to obtain the financial compensation you are entitled to and hold the trucking firm responsible for your injuries.
Driver Errors
Driver errors are the leading cause of traffic collisions according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These crashes cause numerous injuries and fatalities each year. The NHTSA estimates that 94 percent of car accidents are caused by driver error.
There are many ways driver error could lead to an accident, for example, speeding, not paying attention, or ignoring warning signs. There are other factors that could contribute to an accident, like auto parts failures, poor weather conditions, or distracted driving.
Drowsy Driving is among the most common causes of trucking accidents. Truck drivers are often required to travel for long distances, especially at late at night. They are prone to becoming drunk.
Inability to Keep the Vehicle In Good Condition Drivers who operate commercial vehicles must ensure that their vehicles are safe and are properly maintained. This means inspecting the truck for any issues and fixing or replacing any equipment that isn't functioning correctly.
Improperly loaded cargo cargo has been improperly packed, it could be hazardous to drive or shift, and may cause an accident. This type of negligence can be held accountable by the owner or manager of a truck.
Braking and Tire Issues - If the tires or brakes of the truck aren't working properly, it can be difficult to control the vehicle. This can be dangerous for drivers, especially those who must use their brakes when changing lanes or in certain circumstances.
Road Defects Roads can be incredibly risky if they aren't in good condition. Potholes, ruts and branches with overhangs can all pose dangers for drivers.
Unprofessional Hiring A trucking business could be held liable if they hire drivers who do not have experience driving commercial vehicles, or who are unfit for the job. They could also be held liable for not adequately instructing drivers.
It's essential to contact an attorney for personal injuries as soon as possible when you've been injured by a trucking accident. The sooner you act, the better chance you have of winning your case and receiving the compensation you are entitled to.
Trucking Company Negligence
The trucking companies are legally responsible to ensure the safety of all road users and their employees. This includes enforcing rules regarding hours-of-service in addition to conducting routine maintenance and inspections, and ensuring drivers are adequately trained.
One of the biggest reasons for serious truck accidents is failure of the equipment. Equipment failure can be a result of faulty brakes, to taillights and signal lights which aren't functioning properly as well as warning devices that don't work.
A lawyer who specializes in trucking accidents in your area can assist you to prove the company was aware of the problem and was unable to take the proper actions to rectify it. They can also prove that the company did not repair or maintain the equipment, it is responsible for the harm caused by your crash.
If you've been injured in an accident, you could be eligible to receive compensation for medical expenses and lost wages. This could make a huge difference to your financial situation after the accident.
Many people who are seeking a lawyer for truck accidents near me have been injured in a crash because the company did not maintain the vehicles that are part of its fleet. If the trucking company did not comply with federal rules and regulations, it could be responsible for your injuries.
The company's culpability could be shared by other parties like the manufacturer of the defective component or a mechanic who did not service the car promptly. Consult a trucking lawyer near you to determine if there were other causes that contributed to your accident.
Negligent entrustment is a common claim against trucking companies in these instances. A plaintiff must show that the trucking company hired or retained the truck driver who was incompetent or unsafe, unqualified or not fit to operate or operate commercial vehicles. These claims require proof of the driver's prior employment background, safety violations accidents, accidents, drinking or drug use and a history of improper hiring or training or supervision.
A trucking accident lawyer close to you will be able to examine your case, gather and present evidence, file an action, and deal with and take action on your behalf. They will also assist in getting you the maximum compensation for your damages.