Houston is not only a port city but also a hub of commerce. The fourth largest city in America has 18-wheeler truck rigs on its state and Interstate highways all day, every day, increasing the likelihood of an accident with a smaller vehicle.
The aftermath of a big truck accident is more catastrophic than a standard crash. A car or small truck hit by a big truck will likely be a total loss. Drivers and passengers are usually subject to life-changing catastrophic injuries due to the force of the impact. Often, some do not survive the crash.
Here, we will examine your rights if you are involved in a big truck accident.
Legal representation
You have the right to speak with and be represented by a lawyer at any time after the accident. Having a lawyer ensures that your rights are protected during the entire process.
Trucking companies, their insurance companies, and legal teams may contact you to offer you a settlement and request you give them a statement. Refer these calls to your accident lawyer, who will handle all communications and negotiations.
A big truck lawyer will gather evidence and investigate your case to determine the party or parties responsible. Because there are multiple parties involved in this kind of accident, the investigation is necessary to find the liable party or parties. Most people think the driver is the primary cause of the accident. But if the truck they drive was improperly maintained, loaded, or fitted with faulty parts such as brake pads, those parties can also be included in the claim.
Fair compensation
You have the right to fair compensation that covers all expenses related to your accident, including medical costs, property losses, and lost wages. Known as “damages,” the money is intended to both compensate you for these losses and make you “whole” again, as best as possible.
If you have lost a loved one in a big truck accident, you can file a wrongful death lawsuit for the same types of compensation, as well as final medical expenses, funeral and burial expenses, as well as other related expenses.
Protecting Your Rights
We always stress getting medical attention right away after any accident, even if you believe you are fine. By doing so, you protect yourself against the trucking company’s claim that you were not seriously injured and do not deserve any financial compensation.
If you are receiving phone calls from the trucking company, its legal team, insurance company, or other representative, they are not calling “to check on you.” They are calling to get information that they can use to discredit you deny your claim and avoid paying your claim. Do not agree to a recorded statement or say anything—always refer these calls to your lawyer.
Your lawyer will help you navigate a claim and take your case to trial if needed. Contact one as soon as you can after your accident.
Houston Big Truck Accident Lawyer
Accidents with 18-wheeler trucks are devastating. If you have experienced an accident with an 18-wheeler, it is important to understand your rights. Working with an experienced Texas big truck accident lawyer means that you can heal from your injuries while we handle your case.
The Paxton Law Firm is ready to help you after an 18-wheeler accident. Call us at 281-978-2244 or use our online contact form to schedule your free consultation. Whether you are in Houston, San Antonio, Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth, or even El Paso, we are ready to help. For Espanol INICIO and CONTÁCTENOS EN.
