Truck Accident Lawyer in Corpus Christi

What to Do After a Commercial Truck Accident

After being involved in a truck accident, the steps you take in the immediate aftermath are crucial. We understand that this may be an overwhelming time for you and your family, but it is important to take the right steps to protect your legal rights. Our Corpus Christi truck accident attorneys have put together a list of what to do after a truck accident.

After a truck accident, you should:

• Seek Medical Attention for your injuries
• Call the Police and report the accident
• Take Pictures of the scene of the accident and your injuries
• Exchange Contact & Insurance Information with the truck driver
• Get Contact Information from any witnesses
• Do Not Provide a Statement to the truck driver's insurance company
• Contact a Truck Accident Attorney as soon as possible

By taking the right steps after a truck accident, you can protect your legal rights and increase your chances of securing fair compensation for your injuries.

In addition to these immediate steps, keeping a detailed journal of the events surrounding the accident and your subsequent medical treatments can be invaluable. Not only does this documentation help corroborate your account, but it also serves as a record to substantiate your pain and suffering claims. Engaging with legal counsel promptly enables you to navigate the complexities of truck accident claims with informed, strategic guidance tailored to your unique situation. Connect with an 18-wheeler accident attorney in Corpus Christi from Gonzales Law Firm. 

Road and Weather Conditions Impacting Corpus Christi Truck Accidents

Corpus Christi's unique coastal location means that weather conditions can often play a pivotal role in road safety. The city experiences high humidity and rainfall, creating slippery roads that could exacerbate the risk of accidents, particularly for 18-wheeler trucks. Heavy trucks navigating these conditions must take extra caution, especially during the hurricane season when rains are more frequent and intense. Knowing local weather patterns can help truck drivers and other motorists prepare for sudden changes, reducing the likelihood of collisions.

Additionally, Corpus Christi's proximity to the Port of Corpus Christi, one of the largest ports in the U.S., adds to the traffic density in the area. With an immense volume of industrial and commercial vehicles traveling to and from the port, the risk of accidents increases, particularly in high-traffic zones on major routes like Interstate 37 and Highway 181. Understanding these local traffic dynamics is crucial for formulating effective legal strategies post-accident, especially when multiple vehicles are involved.

Who Is Liable for A Truck Accident?

When it comes to truck accident claims, it is important to determine who is liable for the accident. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, there may be multiple parties who can be held accountable for your injuries.

Some of the parties who may be liable for a truck accident include:

• The Truck Driver
• The Trucking Company
• The Truck Manufacturer
• The Company Responsible For Loading The Truck's Cargo

Truck Driver Liability

Truck drivers can be held liable for a truck accident if it is determined that they were negligent or reckless in their driving. This can include things like texting and driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or driving while fatigued. In general, truck drivers are required to adhere to a higher standard of care than other drivers on the road because of the size and weight of their vehicles.

To establish truck driver liability, it's essential to gather comprehensive evidence such as electronic logging device (ELD) records, dashcam footage, and witness statements. These pieces of evidence can demonstrate violations of driving laws or standards of safety, emphasizing the truck driver's responsibility in the incident. Further, our team excels in reconstructing accidents to identify the precise actions leading to collisions, ensuring accountability is firmly placed where it belongs.

Trucking Company Liability

In some cases, the trucking company that employs the truck driver can be held liable for a truck accident. For example, if the trucking company knew that the truck driver had a history of driving under the influence but failed to take action, the company could be held responsible for the accident. Additionally, if the trucking company failed to properly maintain the truck or if the company failed to ensure that the truck driver was properly trained, the company can be held liable for any resulting accidents.

Trucking companies must hire qualified drivers and maintain their fleet to safety standards. Failure to conduct thorough background checks or regular vehicle inspections can lead to liability if these oversights contribute to an accident. Evidence such as maintenance logs, hiring records, and compliance documentation are crucial in establishing negligence on the part of the trucking company, offering a comprehensive view of their potential culpability.

Truck Manufacturer Liability

Truck manufacturers can be held liable for a truck accident if it is determined that a defect with the truck contributed to the accident. For example, if the truck was equipped with defective brakes that failed to stop the truck in time to avoid a collision, the truck manufacturer can be held responsible for the accident.

It is essential to issue a detailed investigation into the parts and overall mechanism of a truck following an accident. Identifying manufacturing flaws or substandard components can prove critical in asserting liability. This process often involves the expertise of mechanical engineers who can analyze whether the truck's systems failed due to inherent defects rather than external circumstances, significantly strengthening legal claims against manufacturers.

Truck Cargo Liability

In some cases, the company responsible for loading the truck's cargo can be held liable for a truck accident. For example, if the cargo was not properly secured and fell off the truck, causing an accident, the company responsible for loading the truck's cargo can be held responsible. Additionally, if the cargo was improperly loaded and caused the truck to tip over or jackknife, the company can be held liable for any resulting accidents.

Proper cargo loading involves not only securing goods but also balancing weight distribution to prevent accidents. Detailed examination of cargo protocols and records can reveal lapses in proper safety procedures that could shift liability to the load handlers. Holding these entities accountable ensures stricter adherence to safety standards, ultimately reducing the risks posed by improperly managed cargo on the roads.

Rely on the expertise of a skilled truck accident lawyer at Gonzales Law Firm. Contact us or call (361) 309-4243 now to arrange your consultation without delay. Our services are available in English and Spanish.

FAQs About Truck Accidents

What Should I Do Immediately After a Truck Accident in Corpus Christi?

Immediately following a truck accident, ensure your safety and that of others around you. Call emergency services to report the accident and seek medical attention, even if injuries are not immediately apparent. Document the scene, if safe to do so, and gather contact information of witnesses and involved parties. Avoid discussing fault or speaking with insurance adjusters until conferring with a qualified attorney. Early legal involvement ensures your rights are protected from the outset. Reach out to a qualified truck accident attorney at our firm right away.

How Can Gonzales Law Firm Help After a Truck Accident?

Our team at Gonzales Law Firm offers personalized legal support and strategic guidance at every juncture of your truck accident claim. We collaborate with industry professionals to reconstruct accidents and analyze evidence, ensuring a comprehensive approach to holding negligent parties accountable. Our attorneys are committed to transparent communication, providing insight and answers to guide you toward an informed resolution.

Are Truck Accidents Common in Corpus Christi?

Given the heavy commercial traffic linked to the Port of Corpus Christi and surrounding major highways, truck accidents are a notable concern in the area. The mix of local, industrial, and tourist traffic contributes to increased accident risk. Understanding this local context is crucial for strategic claim management, as our firm stays abreast of local trends and infrastructure projects that may influence traffic flow and safety.

What Are Common Causes of Truck Accidents?

Common causes include driver fatigue, mechanical failure, and improper cargo loading. The sheer size and weight of trucks impose significant risks, especially when operating under poor maintenance or with inadequately secured cargo. Our legal team delves into these factors to establish negligence or violations of safety standards, building a robust case that addresses each unique cause and its effects.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Truck Accident Claim in Texas?

In Texas, the statute of limitations to file a personal injury claim, including truck accident claims, is typically two years from the date of the accident. Filing within this timeframe is crucial to preserve your right to legal recourse. Our attorneys can guide you through this timeline, emphasizing prompt action to ensure you do not lose eligibility for potential compensation. Swift action also aids in preserving valuable evidence that can strengthen your claim. Speak with a professional truck accident lawyer at Gonzales Law Firm as soon as you can.