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Liability in Texas Trucking Accidents

In Texas trucking accidents, liability can extend beyond the truck driver to include the trucking company. Determining liability involves examining factors like:

Trucking Company Responsibility: The company may be liable if it neglected proper maintenance, enforced unrealistic driving schedules, or failed to adhere to safety regulations.
Driver Negligence: If the accident resulted from the truck driver’s actions, such as speeding or distracted driving.
Vehicle Malfunctions: If the accident was caused by a vehicle defect, liability might involve the truck manufacturer.

In some cases, liability might be shared among several parties, making it vital to investigate the accident thoroughly.

When Can You Sue the Trucking Company After an Accident?

The grounds for suing a trucking company after an accident in Texas are based on whether the company’s actions or negligence played a role in the incident. This includes a variety of scenarios where the company may have failed in its duty of care. Examples include:

Failure to Comply with Safety Standards

The trucking company might be responsible if they disregarded industry safety standards, such as overloading trucks or not enforcing rest breaks for drivers, leading to an accident.

Poor Fleet Maintenance

Accidents caused by mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts, can point to the company’s negligence in maintaining their vehicles.

Hiring Practices

Employing drivers without proper licenses or adequate training or with a history of traffic violations can be a basis for liability.

Negligent Supervision

If the company failed to supervise its drivers properly, ignoring issues like reckless driving habits or non-compliance with driving hour regulations, it could be held liable.

In each of these instances, the trucking company’s direct or indirect actions contribute to the likelihood of an accident.

Documenting these failures and establishing a clear link between the company’s negligence and the accident is vital for a successful lawsuit. A skilled trucking accident lawyer can be instrumental in investigating these aspects, gathering necessary evidence, and articulating a compelling case against the company.

How Do You Prove the Trucking Company Is Liable in a Houston Truck Accident?

Proving the trucking company’s liability involves:

Gathering Evidence: Collecting accident reports, driver logs, vehicle maintenance records, and witness statements.
Establishing Negligence: Demonstrating how the company’s actions or inaction contributed to the accident.
Expert Testimony: Utilizing industry experts to substantiate claims of negligence or safety violations.

What Is the Statute of Limitations on a Trucking Company Lawsuit?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit against a trucking company is typically 2 years from the date of the accident (Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem Code § 16.003). Adhering to the statute of limitations is crucial when considering legal action against a trucking company.

This deadline is critical for several reasons, including:

Filing within this timeframe is a legal requirement to maintain your eligibility to pursue compensation. Missing this deadline generally means forfeiting your right to sue.
Over time, evidence crucial to your case can become harder to obtain. Witnesses’ memories may fade, and physical evidence can be lost or degraded. Acting quickly ensures that the evidence remains fresh and accurate.
The sooner you begin the legal process, the sooner you may reach a resolution. This can be especially important if you’re facing mounting medical bills and ongoing financial strain due to the accident.

Promptly consulting with a Houston trucking accident attorney after your accident ensures that these critical aspects are professionally managed, helping to secure the best possible outcome in your case.

Why Hire a Houston Trucking Accident Attorney?

Hiring a trucking accident lawyer is essential for several reasons:

Knowledge of Trucking Laws: They have knowledge and experience working within the complex federal and state regulations governing the trucking industry.
Navigating Liability Issues: They can skillfully navigate the multiple layers of liability often involved in trucking accidents.
Maximizing Compensation: An experienced attorney can effectively negotiate with insurance companies and legal teams to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Legal Support During Recovery: A Houston trucking accident lawyer handles the legal burdens so you can focus on healing. They understand the challenges of recovery and strive to make the process as stress-free as possible for you and your family.

Having an experienced attorney improves your chances of a favorable outcome and offers peace of mind during a difficult recovery period.

Contact Patrick Daniel Law Today!

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Texas, reaching out to Patrick Daniel Law can provide you with the skilled legal support you need. Our experienced Houston trucking accident attorney understands the intricacies of trucking law and is dedicated to helping you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

Can You Sue a Trucking Company in Texas?