Types of Tractor-Trailer Crashes

Denton truck accident lawyers are experienced in handing with several different forms of accidents including:

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What Injuries Can Result from a Truck Accident?

The sheer size of most trucks can cause severe injuries or property damage to pedestrians and drivers. For example, orthopedic injuries often require surgeries to the knees, shoulders, and arms. The worst injuries that can result from a commercial vehicle crash include traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and burns. A compassionate attorney in Denton could work with an injured party and their family to get the compensation they deserve for harms sustained in an 18-wheeler collision.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

TBIs occur when a sudden impact causes the brain to rattle inside the skull. Depending on the force of the impact, the brain tissue can be bruised, twisted, or torn. Traumatic brain injuries can affect every part of someone’s life. They may struggle to walk, talk, use their body as they once did, and their personalities might change, as well, all of which is very difficult to deal with and requires many hours of medical appointments and rehabilitation. Not everyone who suffers a TBI in a trucking accident recovers completely, but those who do require prompt care.

Unfortunately, many TBIs go undiagnosed following a shipping vehicle collision. When an injured party is taken to the emergency room after being hit by a tractor-trailer, they often have a great deal of obvious injuries, such as bleeding lacerations and protruding bones. Therefore, the medical team may be hyper focused on what they can see, and even after the injured party receives a CT or MRI, the severity of head trauma, like concussions or other brain injuries, may not be immediately apparent.

Burns

Truck accidents can also cause burn injuries from the materials involved in the collision. It may be as simple as an individual hitting the airbag too hard. However, burns also happen when the fuel and electrical systems are affected, creating a fire. Alternatively, hot metal from the car could burn vehicle occupants.

Death

In the worst cases, individuals involved in a tractor-trailer collision could lose their lives. Last year in Texas, around 600 people passed away because of accidents with semi-trucks. If a loved one passed away as the result of a truck accident, family members may be able to initiate a wrongful death claim with the help of a Denton lawyer.

Causes of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can be caused by a number of factors. Some of those include:

  • Fatigue
  • Poor training
  • Negligence
  • Recklessness
  • Failure to adhere to road rules
  • Intoxication
  • Distracted driving
  • Speeding

Commercial truck drivers are subject to federal and state guidelines and are expected to undergo training. Despite these safety measures, not all truck drivers adequately follow these rules. Inexperience can also contribute to an accident. If the accident is not the truck driver’s fault, other factors such as defective truck equipment, severe weather, or poor road conditions may cause an accident. Based on the facts of a case, a Denton lawyer can evaluate whether there is a claim solely against the truck driver or also against other parties.

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Damages in Denton Commercial Vehicle Wrecks

If a person sustained personal injuries such as broken bones, severed limbs, internal bleeding, burns, or head trauma, they will likely incur substantial medical costs and may need to take time away from work. Fortunately, compensation available in truck collisions include recovery for things like:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Lost wages
  • Medical costs

A trusted attorney could assess the appropriate damages to seek based on the facts of each case and ensure that an injured party’s claim is asserted before the statute of limitations deadline has passed.

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Statute of Limitations

Texas statute of limitations gives claimants and their families two years to file a claim for cases involving bodily injury or death. If the personal injury or wrongful death claim is not brought prior to the expiration of this two-year timeframe, the injured party may be barred from recovering any damages. A skilled Denton truck attorney will be aware of the statute of limitation period applicable to your injury case and will ensure that your claims are protected by asserting them in a timely manner.

Consult with a Denton Truck Accident Attorney

After being injured in a truck accident, it is important to seek legal counsel from a Denton truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can help preserve evidence from the scene of the accident that may be crucial to proving liability and obtaining recovery for an injured party. It is also advisable to consult with a lawyer before signing a settlement agreement presented by an insurance company. It is typically in the insurance company’s best interest to settle these cases as quickly and inexpensively as possible. Our Denton truck accident attorneys can advocate for you to receive the money you deserve. Call today.

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Trunk Accident FAQ

What should I do immediately after a truck accident?

How is fault determined in a truck accident case?

Who can be held liable in a truck accident case?

What if the truck accident was partially my fault?

How long does it take to resolve a truck accident case?

What compensation can I recover in a truck accident case?

What if the truck driver was uninsured or underinsured?

How do federal regulations affect truck accident cases?

What evidence is crucial in a truck accident case?

Why should I avoid speaking with the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

What should I do immediately after a truck accident?

After a truck accident, ensure your safety and call 911. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor, as symptoms can worsen over time. Collect evidence by taking photos of the scene, exchanging information with the truck driver, and gathering contact details of witnesses. Avoid discussing fault and consult a Denton truck accident lawyer as soon as possible.

How is fault determined in a truck accident case?

Fault in a truck accident case is determined by investigating factors such as driver negligence, adherence to federal and state trucking regulations, vehicle maintenance records, and road conditions. A lawyer will gather evidence, including accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony, to build a strong case.

Who can be held liable in a truck accident case?

Liability can extend beyond the truck driver to include the trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, maintenance provider, or even cargo loaders if negligence is proven. Your attorney will identify all liable parties to maximize your compensation.

What if the truck accident was partially my fault?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages if you are less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. An attorney can help argue your case and minimize your liability.

How long does it take to resolve a truck accident case?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of injuries, and whether it goes to trial. Some cases settle in a few months, while others can take years. A skilled attorney will work efficiently to resolve your case while ensuring you receive fair compensation.

What compensation can I recover in a truck accident case?

Victims can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, rehabilitation costs, and, in some cases, punitive damages. An attorney will evaluate your case to pursue all applicable damages.

What if the truck driver was uninsured or underinsured?

If the truck driver lacks sufficient insurance, you may pursue compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Additionally, other liable parties, such as the trucking company or vehicle manufacturer, may provide avenues for recovery.

How do federal regulations affect truck accident cases?

Federal trucking regulations, such as hours-of-service limits, vehicle maintenance requirements, and cargo loading rules, play a significant role in establishing liability. Violations of these regulations by the truck driver or company can strengthen your case.

What evidence is crucial in a truck accident case?

Critical evidence includes police reports, eyewitness statements, photos of the accident scene, truck maintenance records, driver logs, black box data, and medical records. Your attorney will work to gather and preserve this evidence promptly.

Why should I avoid speaking with the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

Insurance adjusters aim to minimize payouts and may use your statements against you. It’s best to let your attorney handle all communications with the insurance company to protect your rights and ensure a fair settlement.

Denton Case Types

Get The Help You Need Contact McCraw Law Group

If you are in need of a personal injury attorney in North Texas, please contact the team at McCraw Law Group today. We are ready to help you in a broad range of serious accident and injury legal issues, and offer multiple ways to reach us.

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If you are in need of a personal injury attorney in North Texas, please contact the team at McCraw Law Group today. We are ready to help you in a broad range of serious accident and injury legal issues, and offer multiple ways to reach us.

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