There were 4,714 fatal truck accidents in 2021 and 68% of the deaths were other drivers and passengers. Texas recorded 146 truck fatalities and 413 semi-trailer fatalities in 2020. Truck accidents often result in serious injuries and damages due to the massive size and weight of commercial trucks – an 18-wheeler weighs 35k pounds unloaded, and with cargo on board, it can easily weigh in excess of 80k pounds.
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If you have been involved in a truck accident in Texas, there are some important steps you should take to protect your rights and access the compensation you may be entitled to.Seek Medical Attention Immediately
First and foremost, seek medical attention immediately, even if you don’t think you are hurt. Adrenaline coursing through your veins after an accident often masks pain and injuries that may worsen over time – a headache could be a TBI. Getting prompt medical treatment creates a record of your injuries and treatment. Keep records of all medical expenses and documents related to your injuries.Gather Information at the Accident Scene in Texas
When possible, gather information at the accident scene. Take photos of property damage, skid marks, the position of the vehicles, and any other evidence that could be relevant. Get contact details and insurance information from the other drivers involved. If there were witnesses, get their contact information too. The police report will also contain important details to help determine fault.Report the Accident Promptly
Report the commercial truck accident to the trucking company and your insurance provider right away. There are stringent reporting deadlines for trucking companies, so prompt notification is key. Be cautious about what you say, simply provide the facts. Speculating about what happened could hurt your claim later.Hire a Texas Truck Accident Attorney
Truck accident cases involving commercial carriers and insurance companies can become complex. According to Ryan Zehl, a truck accident lawyer in Texas, you should consider hiring an attorney. They know how to deal with insurance adjusters, conduct accident investigations, establish liability, and handle negotiations to get you the best settlement. Contingency fee agreements mean no upfront payment is required in most truck accident cases.
Your attorney can identify all potentially liable parties and file claims accordingly. Their investigation will gather police reports, vehicle maintenance records, the truck driver’s history and qualifications, logbooks, and other evidence to help determine who was at fault. They will also consult trucking regulations and compliance requirements to identify violations.Pursue Fair Compensation for Your Damages
The damages that can be claimed after a Texas truck accident include medical expenses, lost income and benefits, property damage, and pain and suffering damages. Your attorney can calculate damages and demand fair compensation from the insurance company. The average settlement for a truck accident ranges from $50,000-$100,000.Focus on Your Recovery
The aftermath of a truck accident is difficult, but taking the right legal steps can make a big difference. Focus on your recovery and leave the complex legal matters to an experienced truck accident attorney. They have the expertise to handle the insurance claim process while you get the compensation and justice you deserve. With the right lawyer, you can gain some peace of mind knowing your rights are protected after suffering losses in a truck accident caused by someone else’s negligence.