Trucking Accidents Lawyers Near Me
When you or a loved one is injured in a truck accident it is vital to seek legal help. The trucking industry is complex, and an experienced lawyer will be able to ensure that your rights are secured.
An investigation by a professional will reveal any individuals who could be responsible for your claim. These include the truck driver or the trucking company as well as the freight owner.
The Trucking Regulations
The trucking business, including the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is regulated by federal and state agencies. These regulations are designed to reduce injuries and fatalities caused by collisions between trucks and other vehicles. They also ensure the security of drivers, passengers and pedestrians on public roads.
The FMCSA has many regulations that all commercial vehicles and drivers must adhere to which include hours of service, alcohol and drug testing inspections, and certifications. If you're a trucker, you need to know these regulations and understand them thoroughly. If you have been injured in an accident as a result of a violation, you could be entitled to compensation.
Hours of service laws govern the length of time drivers can drive at a time and the length of breaks they must take between shifts. These rules are designed to keep truckers fit and healthy, as well as prevent accidents involving fatigue.
The FMCSA also requires truck drivers examine, repair and maintain their vehicles on a regular basis. This includes daily inspections after each trip of the basic equipment (tires lights, brakes, trailer connections) and more in-depth periodic inspections within the previous 12 months.
Defective brakes and tires and also inadequate lighting, are among the top causes of trucking accidents that result in major injuries. In these situations, drivers need to slow down or stop driving to avoid causing damage to their vehicle and triggering an accident.
The FMCSA also requires that trucking companies track their drivers' performance on a regular basis and record it in logbooks. This allows trucking companies to determine if their drivers are safe at work and effective.
Another regulation that affects trucking companies is the requirement for electronic log-keeping devices (ELDs). These loggers, placed in every vehicle and are synced with engines, automatically record driving time. They prevent drivers from lying about their driving times.
Drivers who do not comply with these regulations could be punished with fines and sanctions. A professional will review your company's records and logbooks to ensure that you're in compliance with the law and not liable for any violations.
Jackknife Accidents
If you or someone you care about was injured in a jackknife crash it is crucial to seek legal counsel away. These cases are more complicated than car accidents and it can be difficult to determine who was at fault.
Typically truckers are taught to avoid these types of crashes by following the rules of the road and taking precautions to ensure their vehicle is safe. For example they must take extra care when driving through curves or breaking suddenly. They should be aware of weather conditions, which can make it easier for a trailer to go out of control.
But even the most experienced drivers can experience these types of accidents from time time. A trucker who speeds up or brakes too quickly may lose control of the vehicle, causing it to be jackknifed.
Depending on the severity of the accident, it could cause serious injuries or even death. They could cause neck and head injuries, or damage to the spinal cord. Broken bones, lacerations, cuts, even amputations can cause injuries to the body.
The consequences of a jackknife truck accident is devastating, especially when a loved one is killed. In this scenario family members may be able to seek compensation for their damages by filing a wrongful death claim against the driver and/or the trucking company.
Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys in The Woodlands can help you to track your case, even the fact that many of these cases can take some time to resolve. We will keep you informed of the progress of your case and will not accept a settlement without consulting with you first.
Your lawyer must prove that the trucker was negligent and didn't exercise reasonable care while managing their vehicle. This means ensuring that the trailer is properly secured and that the brakes are functioning properly.
Grimes and Fertitta's legal team comprehends the complex nature of these cases and will fight for your rights. We will investigate every aspect of the accident and determine what caused it so that we can create an effective case. We will pursue a lawsuit to hold the trucking company responsible for your injuries and will get you the financial compensation you are due.
Driver Errors
Driver errors are the leading cause of traffic collisions, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These crashes cause a multitude of injuries and deaths each year. The NHTSA estimates that 94 percent of car accidents are caused by a driver error.
There are a variety of ways that driver errors can cause an accident, including speeding, not paying attention, or ignoring warning signs. There are other factors that can contribute to accidents, such as automobile parts that are defective, bad weather conditions, or distracted driving.
Drowsy Driving - One of the most common causes of trucking accidents in the United States is drowsy driving. This is due to the fact that truckers are expected to sit for long hours on the road, often at night, and can become drowsy quite easily.
Failure to maintain the vehicle Commercial truck drivers have to ensure that their vehicles are in good repair and properly maintained. This means checking the vehicle for any signs of trouble and fixing or replacing any issue that isn't working correctly.
Improperly loaded cargo - When cargo has been improperly packed, it could be unsafe to drive or shift, and may cause an accident. The owner or manager of the truck could be held accountable for the negligence that caused this.
Tire and Braking Problems If the truck's brakes or tires aren't working properly they can make it difficult to control the truck. This is particularly risky for drivers who have to apply the brakes in certain situations, such as when changing lanes.
Road Defects Roads can be extremely risky if they aren't in good condition. Potholes, ruts and overhanging branches can all present hazardous conditions for drivers.
Unprofessional hiring Trucking companies could be accountable for hiring drivers who have no experience driving commercial vehicles, or are not suitable for the position. They could also be accountable for not training drivers adequately.
It is crucial to contact a personal injury lawyer immediately if you've been hurt in a trucking crash. The earlier you contact them the better chance you have of proving your case and receiving the compensation that you deserve.
Trucking Company Negligence
Trucking businesses are legally bound to ensure the safety of their employees and everyone else who travels. This includes enforcing rules regarding hours-of-service in addition to conducting routine maintenance and inspections, and making sure that drivers are adequately trained.
Equipment failure is one of the most common causes of serious truck accidents. Equipment failure could range from faulty brakes, to taillights and signal lights that aren't working properly or warning devices that aren't working.
A lawyer who specializes in trucking accidents in your area can assist you to show that the company was aware of this issue but did not take the appropriate steps to resolve it. They can also show the company did not repair or maintain the equipment, it is accountable for the damages caused by your accident.
If you've been injured in an accident, you could be eligible to receive compensation for your medical expenses and lost wages. truck crashes could make a huge difference to your financial situation following the crash.
Many people in need of a lawyer for truck accidents near me were seriously injured in an accident because a company did not maintain its vehicles. If the trucking company did not follow federal rules and regulations, it could be liable for your injuries.
The company's fault could be shared by other parties, like the manufacturer of the defective component or a mechanic who did not take care of the car promptly. It is important to contact a trucking accident lawyer near me who can assist you in determining whether there were any other factors which contributed to your crash.
In these instances trucking firms are often accused of negligent entrustment. A plaintiff must prove that the trucking company has hired or retained a driver who was unqualified, unqualified, inadequate or dangerous or not qualified to operate or operate commercially-owned trucks. These claims typically require evidence of a driver's past work history, any prior safety violations and accidents, alcohol and drug usage, as well as a history of inadequate screening, hiring, or supervision.
A trucking accident lawyer near you will examine your case, collect and present evidence, file your claim, negotiate and then litigate your case. They will also assist you to obtain the maximum amount of amount of compensation for your losses.