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Plano Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer
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Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer In Plano, TX
Commercial vehicles, a frequent sight on Texas roads and across the United States, are unfortunately often involved in accidents on a daily basis. If you or a loved one has been injured in such an accident, you’re acutely aware of the significant impact it can have on your life. The consequences can range from expensive medical bills and extended recovery periods to lost wages due to missed work, with serious injuries causing substantial upheaval.
It’s crucial that those at fault for these truck accidents, including the drivers and the companies operating commercial vehicles, are held accountable for the damage they inflict. This is where the expertise of a seasoned Plano commercial vehicle accident attorney becomes invaluable. At JML Injury Law, we are committed to advocating on your behalf. Our team is dedicated to supporting Texas families in securing financial restitution for injuries resulting from the negligence of commercial vehicles, their employers, and other parties. To schedule a free consultation with a skilled Texas commercial vehicle accident attorney, call (214) 764-3600 or contact us online.
Types Of Commercial Vehicle Accidents That Frequently Occur
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) categorizes a commercial vehicle as any motor vehicle utilized for the transportation of goods or passengers. These vehicles either weigh 10,001 pounds or more, or they are designed or utilized to transport over eight passengers for compensation, or more than 15 passengers without compensation. Moreover, vehicles used for the transportation of hazardous materials are classified as commercial vehicles. Common examples of commercial vehicles that are frequently observed on Texas highways include:
- 18-Wheelers
- Box Trucks
- Bucket Trucks
- Buses
- Coaches
- Dump Trucks
- Flatbed Trucks
- Garbage Trucks
- Grapple Trucks
- Heavy Equipment used for Mining, Construction, and Farming
- Refrigerator Trucks
- Tow Trucks
- Trailers
- Travel Trailers over 10,000 pounds
- Vans
The increasing presence of commercial vehicles on our roads, coupled with the upsurge in distance traveled by these vehicles, has led to a notable rise in accidents, injuries, and fatalities involving commercial motor vehicles (CMVs), as reported by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). At JML Injury Law, situated in Plano, TX, our specialized commercial vehicle accident attorney is keenly aware of this escalation in accidents. Consequently, we are fully committed to representing our clients with vigor, utilizing a steadfast strategy to secure favorable results for those injured due to the negligence of these vehicles.
Key Factors Leading to Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Texas
At JML Injury Law, we observe various factors leading to commercial vehicle accidents, recognizing that each can result in serious injuries for occupants of smaller vehicles. The primary causes of these accidents include:
Fatigued Driving
Drivers often spend long periods on the road, neglecting federally mandated rest breaks. Even when following hours-of-service regulations, drivers can still become drowsy, increasing the risk of accidents caused by driver fatigue.
Distracted Driving
Any activity that diverts a driver’s attention from the road can contribute to distracted driving. This includes talking on the phone, texting, using a navigation system, eating, daydreaming, or any other action that takes the driver’s eyes or mind off the task of driving.
Failure To Brake In A Timely Manner
Some commercial vehicles are large and require a longer distance to come to a safe stop due to their weight and cargo. Fatigued or distracted drivers may fail to react promptly to traffic slowdowns or red lights.
Excessive Speeding
High speed is a significant factor in motor vehicle accidents, including those involving commercial vehicles. Higher speeds require more distance for a commercial vehicle to come to a stop.
Driving too fast for conditions: In certain situations, the designated speed limit might not be suitable. Adverse weather conditions, heavy traffic, and slippery roads may require commercial vehicle drivers to reduce their speed for safe operation. Regardless of the speed limit, drivers of commercial vehicles should adjust their speed according to the prevailing conditions.
Following Too Closely
Commercial vehicle drivers often fail to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them. Tailgating and driving too closely make it challenging to brake safely and increase the risk of rear-end collisions.
Aggressive driving: Aggressive drivers pose a danger to all road users. When commercial vehicle drivers display aggressive behavior, they significantly increase the potential for causing accidents and harm.
Equipment Malfunction
Equipment failures, such as brakes and tires, are common causes of commercial vehicle accidents. A malfunctioning piece of equipment can lead to an accident, and the manufacturer or brake manufacturer may be held responsible for injuries sustained by accident victims.
Wide Turns
Due to their broader turning radius, commercial vehicles can cause significant damage. If a driver fails to consider other vehicles before making a turn, it can result in severe accidents and injuries.
Improper Lane Changes
Commercial vehicles attempting sudden lane changes may fail to notice vehicles in their blind spots, resulting in significant harm to passenger vehicles and other motorists on the road.
Financial Compensation Available for Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Texas
The severity of injuries from commercial vehicle accidents can significantly vary, influenced by the size of the vehicles involved and the intensity of the collision. No matter how minor or severe your injuries are, you should not have to shoulder the financial repercussions of the accident on your own. Our Plano commercial vehicle accident attorney is dedicated to conducting an in-depth investigation to fully understand the accident’s impact on you and your family’s life. Armed with this insight, we craft a tailored strategy aimed at securing the compensation you and your loved ones justly deserve. You may be eligible to receive damages for a range of losses.
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Diminished ability to work
- Impairment and disability
- Emotional anguish
- Loss of consortium
If your loved one has tragically passed away due to an accident involving a bus, taxi, rideshare vehicle, or any other form of commercial transportation, JML Injury Law is committed to supporting your family in pursuing just compensation with a wrongful death lawsuit. You and your family may qualify for compensation for a range of damages, ensuring your rights and losses are acknowledged and addressed.
- Expenses related to funeral services
- Expenses for burial or cremation options
- The financial impact of income previously contributed by your loved one
- The value of household services and support that your loved one used to provide
- The impact of losing companionship and parental guidance
In instances of commercial vehicle accidents leading to injury or wrongful death, you may be eligible for exemplary damages as well. These damages are not calculated based on your economic or non-economic losses. Instead, they are awarded to act as a deterrent and to hold the defendant(s) responsible for their significant negligence or misconduct.
Texas Commercial Vehicle Accident Statistics
In 2018, the National Safety Council reported a tragic total of 4,951 fatalities as a result of large truck accidents. A breakdown of these fatalities reveals that 71% were occupants of other vehicles, 18% were truck occupants, and 11% were bicyclists or pedestrians. Notably, 74% of these fatal accidents occurred on non-interstate roads, with a significant 57% happening in rural areas.Frequently Asked Questions
Despite large commercial vehicles comprising only 4% of road traffic, they are disproportionately involved in 13% of all traffic-related fatalities. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, in accidents involving a large commercial vehicle and a passenger car, 96% of the deaths are occupants of the passenger vehicle. Alarmingly, 2018 saw around 150,000 large truck accidents that led to injuries.
Texas has the dubious distinction of leading the nation in fatal truck accidents, with 649 recorded fatalities in 2017 involving large trucks and buses, as per Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration data. California is next, with 361 fatalities that year. While the focus is often on commercial trucks and buses, Texas also sees a significant number of accidents involving other types of commercial vehicles. For example, in 2008, solid waste vehicles were responsible for 103 fatalities and 1,453 injuries to third parties, often resulting from backing up, rear-end collisions, or accidents at intersections, according to data from the NSWMA.
This data underscores the critical need for enhanced safety measures and regulations to protect all road users from the disproportionate risks posed by large commercial vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Do I Do After A Commercial Truck Accident?
In the unfortunate event of an accident, securing expert assistance is paramount. A seasoned Plano commercial vehicle accident attorney can meticulously examine the scene for you, ensuring that you secure the compensation you’re entitled to. Navigating the complexities of an injury claim’s legalities can be daunting, and lacking adequate representation might lessen your chances of a just resolution. This underscores the importance of a personal injury lawyer’s support, which can significantly influence the outcome.
At JML Injury Law, our commitment lies in offering the support you need. Have peace of mind knowing our team will manage all legal proceedings and investigations, granting you the freedom to concentrate on recovery. Leveraging our comprehensive expertise and training, rest assured that numerous clients have successfully received the compensation they deserve through our guidance.
What Parties Can Be Liable For A Commercial Vehicle Accident In Texas?
Similar to collisions involving Texas 18-wheelers, liability for the accident and subsequent damages can be attributed to a range of parties. This includes not only the commercial vehicle’s driver but also their employer, the operating company, the staffing agency, the leasing agency, or potentially another third party.
Additionally, the manufacturer of the vehicle, the maintenance contractor, and the company responsible for loading may be held responsible. In certain instances, a myriad of other entities might share in the liability. Although pinpointing responsibility in commercial vehicle accidents presents a complex challenge, our personal injury law firm possesses the expertise and dedication necessary to navigate these complexities effectively.
Should I Accept A Settlement With The Commercial Vehicle Company?
Before agreeing to a settlement offer from a company, it’s imperative to seek advice from a reputable Plano commercial vehicle accident attorney to understand the terms fully. Each case has its distinct characteristics; hence, we always advise potential clients to reach out to JML Injury Law for a detailed evaluation of their specific situation. Although most commercial vehicle accident injury cases are resolved through settlements, it’s crucial to recognize that such agreements are often achieved through meticulous negotiations led by an experienced lawyer.
Contact Our Plano Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer Now
Should you require the expertise of a seasoned commercial vehicle accident attorney in Plano, JML Injury Law is your ideal choice. Our services are offered exclusively on a contingency basis, ensuring you owe nothing until we secure a victory in your case. This ensures that you won’t have any out-of-pocket expenses. What’s more, our commercial vehicle accident attorney has a proven track record of successfully handling cases and holding negligent commercial car and truck operators accountable for the accidents they cause. Contact our office now at (214) 764-3600 for a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help.