Commercial vehicle accidents can have devastating consequences, often resulting in severe injuries and complex legal challenges. Whether you are dealing with a collision involving a delivery truck, a tractor-trailer, or another type of commercial vehicle, having experienced legal representation is crucial to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
At Patterson Law Group, our Fort Worth, commercial vehicle accident attorney is dedicated to helping accident victims navigate the legal process confidently and clearly.
With years of experience handling commercial vehicle accident cases, our law firm is committed to providing personalized and effective legal representation. We understand the unique challenges these cases present and work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcomes for our clients.
Common Types of Commercial Vehicles
Due to the size, weight, and purpose of the vehicles involved, commercial vehicle accidents differ significantly from regular car accidents. These accidents often involve more severe injuries and complicated liability issues, so working with a knowledgeable commercial vehicle accident lawyer in Fort Worth is essential.
Commercial vehicles include various transportation modes, each serving different industries and purposes. Some common examples include:
- Commercial Trucks: Large trucks used for transporting goods over long distances.
- Shipping Trucks: Vehicles used by shipping companies to deliver packages and goods.
- Tractor-Trailers: Also known as semi-trucks, these vehicles consist of a tractor unit and one or more trailers.
- Delivery Vans and Trucks: Vehicles used by companies like Amazon, UPS, and FedEx for local deliveries.
- Utility Trucks: Vehicles used by utility companies for maintenance and repair work.
- Buses: Public and private buses are used to transport passengers.
- Company Vehicles: Cars and trucks owned by businesses for employee use.
- Taxi Cabs and Limousines: Vehicles used for paid passenger transport.
- Ambulances: Emergency vehicles used to transport patients to hospitals.
- Tow Trucks: Vehicles used to tow or transport other vehicles.
- Food Trucks: Mobile vehicles used to prepare and sell food.
- Cement Mixers: Trucks used to transport and mix concrete.
- Water Well Drilling Rigs: Vehicles used in the drilling of water wells.
- Vehicles Transporting 10 or More Passengers for Profit: Including shuttle and tour buses.
Each of these vehicles presents unique risks on the road, and accidents involving them can lead to severe consequences.
Common Causes of Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Commercial vehicle accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, often related to the nature of the job and the pressures drivers face. Some common causes include:
- Driver Error: Mistakes made by drivers, such as speeding, failing to yield, or making improper turns.
- Fatigued Drivers: Extended periods behind the wheel can result in driver fatigue, drastically diminishing response times and cognitive abilities.
- Distracted Drivers: Distractions, like using phones or eating while driving, can lead to accidents.
- Drivers Under the Influence: Alcohol or drug impairment is a serious issue that can lead to catastrophic accidents.
- Drivers Who Lack Experience: Inexperienced drivers may not be fully prepared to handle the challenges of operating a large commercial vehicle.
- Inclement Weather: Poor weather conditions can make it difficult to control large vehicles, leading to accidents.
- Impractical Delivery Schedules: Tight deadlines can pressure drivers to take risks, such as speeding or skipping rest breaks.
Most Common Accident Types Specific to Commercial Trucks
Certain types of accidents are more common among commercial trucks due to their size and design. These include:
- Jackknife Accidents: Occur when a truck trailer swings out, forming a sharp angle with the cab, often leading to multi-vehicle collisions.
- Underride Accidents: Happen when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the rear or side of a large truck, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities.
- Rollover Accidents: Trucks are more prone to rollovers due to their high center of gravity, especially when making sharp turns or during sudden maneuvers.
- Tire Blowouts: A sudden tire blowout can cause a driver to lose control of the vehicle and result in a severe accident.
The challenges of these cases demand an understanding of the specific dynamics of commercial vehicle operation and the legal responsibilities of the parties involved.
Why You Need a Fort Worth Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorney
Commercial vehicle accident cases present unique challenges that require specialized legal knowledge. Dealing with large companies and their insurance providers can be daunting, especially when they employ aggressive tactics to minimize liability. This is why having a Fort Worth commercial vehicle accident attorney on your side is essential.
An experienced attorney can help you navigate the legal process, gather crucial evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf. From investigating the accident scene to obtaining driver logs and maintenance records, your lawyer will work diligently to uncover the truth and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Acting quickly is vital in these cases, as statutes of limitations can limit the time you have to file a claim. Additionally, preserving evidence, such as surveillance footage and witness statements, is crucial to building a solid case. By working with a knowledgeable injury lawyer in Fort Worth, you can ensure that your rights are protected from the outset.
Common Injuries in Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Accidents involving commercial vehicles often result in severe injuries due to the size and weight of these vehicles. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Broken Bones
- Internal Organ Injuries
- Severe Cuts and Lacerations
- Burn Injuries
These injuries can have lasting effects on victims’ lives, impacting their ability to work, perform daily activities, and enjoy life. The financial burden of medical bills, rehabilitation, and lost income can be overwhelming, making it crucial to seek compensation with the help of a Fort Worth car accident lawyer.
Freight Companies and Truck Accident Liability
Determining liability in commercial vehicle accidents can be complex, especially when multiple parties are involved. In many cases, liability may extend beyond the driver to include the company that owns the vehicle, the manufacturer of the vehicle or its parts, or even the entity responsible for loading the freight.
A thorough investigation is required to identify all potentially liable parties and build a case that accurately reflects the extent of each party’s responsibility. This is where the expertise of a Texas accident attorney is invaluable. By examining driver logs, maintenance records, and company policies, your attorney can uncover evidence that supports your claim and maximizes your chances of securing fair compensation.
Compensation Available to Victims
Individuals involved in commercial vehicle accidents could potentially receive compensation based on the circumstances of the crash and the extent of their injuries. Types of compensation include:
- Medical Expenses: Covering hospital stays, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and other related costs.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to the inability to work following the accident.
- Property Damage: Covering the costs to repair or replace your vehicle and other property damaged or destroyed in the crash.
An experienced attorney can help you accurately assess all damages, including future medical expenses and lost earning capacity, to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. This includes negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, taking your case to court.
How Our Firm Can Help
We have extensive experience handling commercial vehicle accident cases at Patterson Law Group. Our firm is dedicated to providing each client with personalized and effective legal representation. We understand the challenges victims face and are here to support you throughout the legal process.
Our track record of success speaks for itself. We have helped numerous clients in Fort Worth and throughout Texas recover the compensation they deserve. Whether through settlements or trials, we are committed to fighting for your rights and holding negligent parties accountable.
FAQs About Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Texas
Dealing with the aftermath of a commercial vehicle accident in Texas can be overwhelming, and it’s natural to have many questions. Below, we address some of the most common concerns to help you better understand your legal options and the steps you should take.
How long do I have to file a claim after a commercial vehicle accident?
After a crash, you typically have up to two years to file a personal injury claim. However, some factors can decrease the time you have to take action. For this reason, it is important to act quickly to ensure that your claim is filed within this time frame.
How much does hiring a Fort Worth commercial vehicle accident attorney cost?
At Patterson Law Group, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not pay any legal fees unless we win your case. This lets you focus on your recovery without worrying about upfront legal costs.
What if the commercial vehicle driver was not the only one at fault?
Liability in commercial vehicle accidents can extend to multiple parties, including the driver, the company that owns the vehicle, or even the manufacturer. Your attorney will investigate all potential sources of liability to build a strong case.
Contact Our Fort Worth Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer Today
If you were hurt in an accident with a commercial vehicle, do not hesitate to seek legal assistance. Contact our commercial vehicle accident lawyer in Fort Worth at Patterson Law Group for a free consultation. We are here to answer your questions, evaluate your case, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
