Handling Tractor-Trailer Truck Accidents Across Texas
It is easy to understand why collisions with semi-trucks (18-wheeler, tractor-trailer, semi) can be so destructive. Fully loaded trucks can often weigh in excess of 80,000 lbs. Driving these types of machines requires a completely different skill level than driving a standard 4-door car. Unless your Texas truck accident lawyer is familiar with the numerous federal motor regulations governing operation of commercial trucks, you will not be adequately represented.
Of course, knowing what to look for is just half the battle. Knowing how to find the truth is what what makes the difference. For instance, there is a limit on how long truckers may drive without a rest break. Yet, they will often fake their log books to appear as if they complied with the rules.
Texas Trucking Accident Attorneys cannot just stop there! In fact, many trucks are equipped with GPS tracking systems which show how long the truck has been operating. Trucking companies will not just volunteer this information – your attorney has to be aware of it and go get it!
In addition to fatigue, another common problem is inattention. Truckers will often testify the collision was unavoidable. This testimony can often be undermined through download of the truck’s “blackbox” data. Many people are unaware that, much like airplanes, many commercial trucks are now equipped with a “blackbox” that records all the details of the trucks operation. This type of information can prove to a jury that the trucker never even hit his breaks before the crash.
These are a few examples of what a Personal Injury Attorney needs to look for in a trucking accident case. The truth is, these type of cases are much more complex than a general car wreck and the issues are too numerous to list. Even more so than any other case, the trucking accident case is extremely time-sensitive. Each day that passes without investigation decreases your chances of success. For instance, many of the blackbox recorders hold information for a very limited amount of time. If you wait to hire an attorney, that truck may be put back on the road, and new information will be recorded over the accident information.
Because we specialize in personal injury law, we know the various rules and regulations that truckers must follow and we know how to get that information. In fact, after any semi-truck wreck, the trucking company is required to file certain information with the federal D.O.T. These then become public records that we will request immediately. Additionally, as soon as we are retained in any trucking case, we immediately send a “preservation of evidence” letter to the trucking company. In that letter, we ask them to retain certain documents that might be relevant to the lawsuit.
If you’ve been involved in wreck with a semi-truck, you need to at least consult with an attorney immediately. Contact our law firm for a free consultation. We never charge any hourly fees and it’s always free to talk about your case.
Texas Semi-Truck Wreck Lawyer
If you need a Texas semi-truck (18-wheeler) accident lawyer, contact our law firm. We handle handle cases involving 18-wheeler accidents all throughout Texas.