18 wheeler collisions in Houston often result in serious injuries and intricate legal challenges. Understanding your rights is essential if you’ve been involved in such an accident. Today we will outline your legal entitlements and discuss the value of working with a seasoned 18 wheeler accident attorney.
Navigating the complexities of these cases requires expertise. If you or someone you know has been in an accident with an 18 wheeler truck in the Houston area, contact Maida Law Firm for a no-obligation case consultation today.
Why Are 18 Wheeler Accidents More Complex?
18 wheeler accidents are not comparable to typical car crashes. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks result in significantly greater damage and more severe injuries. Unlike standard car accidents, these incidents often involve multiple potentially liable parties. This can include the truck driver, the trucking company, manufacturers of truck components, and even those responsible for loading cargo.
The trucking industry operates under strict regulations from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules govern driver hours, vehicle maintenance, and cargo securement. Violations of these regulations can be critical in establishing liability after an accident.
Given the complex nature of these accidents, immediate and thorough investigation is essential in order to build a strong case for you. This includes securing evidence, examining truck logs and data recorders, and identifying all potential factors contributing to the collision.
Key Legal Rights After an 18 Wheeler Accident
If you’ve been injured in an accident with a semi truck, you have specific legal rights aimed at compensating you for your losses.
Right to Compensation for Medical Expenses: You are entitled to recover costs associated with your injuries. This includes emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatments. Keep detailed records of all medical bills and treatments received. This documentation is crucial for proving your claim.
Right to Compensation for Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for lost income. This includes wages lost during your recovery period and any future loss of earning capacity if your injuries have long-term effects. Provide pay stubs, tax returns, and doctor’s notes to substantiate your claim.
Right to Compensation for Pain and Suffering: Beyond financial losses, you can also seek compensation for the physical and emotional pain caused by the accident. This includes pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Assessing these damages can be complex, and a legal professional will help you understand how to quantify these losses.
Right to Property Damage Compensation: You are entitled to compensation for any damage to your vehicle or other personal property. Document the damage with photos and obtain repair estimates or replacement values. This documentation supports your claim for property damage reimbursement.
Why Hire an 18 Wheeler Accident Attorney?
Experienced attorneys conduct thorough investigations, including accessing crucial evidence like truck logs and black box data. They understand the intricacies of FMCSA regulations and can identify violations that contribute to liability. Plus, local attorneys possess in-depth knowledge of Texas state laws and Houston-specific court procedures. A local lawyer understands the local courts and how local judges may handle cases.
Dealing with trucking company insurance adjusters can be challenging. These companies often prioritize their interests over yours. A skilled attorney will negotiate aggressively on your behalf, ensuring you receive a fair settlement. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will be prepared to file a lawsuit and represent you in court. They will guide you through the litigation process, advocating for your rights and pursuing maximum compensation.
What to Do Right After an Accident
Immediately after an accident, prioritize your health. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries may not show immediate symptoms. Document everything, including photos of the scene, witness contact information, and any police reports.
Contact a qualified Houston 18-wheeler accident attorney as soon as possible. Legal counsel can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and help you obtain the compensation you deserve. Do not delay, as evidence can disappear, and deadlines can pass.
Avoid speaking directly with insurance companies. Refer them to your attorney. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim, and your attorney can protect your interests.
Work with an Experienced 18 Wheeler Accident Attorney
Our experienced attorneys will fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Contact Maida Law Firm today for a free case consultation now.