Contact Us
Our singular purpose is to fight for those who have been injured in Texas by the negligence of a person, company, or entity.
Frisco 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer
Contact Us
Experienced 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer In Frisco, TX
If you or someone you know has suffered a serious injury in an accident involving an 18-wheeler or tractor-trailer truck in Texas, it is crucial to seek the guidance of a skilled Frisco 18-wheeler accident lawyer. At JML Injury Law, we possess a deep understanding of the specific laws and regulations that govern the trucking industry. We have the expertise and resources necessary to construct a strong and compelling case on your behalf.
Various factors can contribute to truck wrecks, such as overloaded freight, inadequate maintenance, insufficient training, driver fatigue, and excessive speed. Both state and federal laws dictate the maintenance standards for trucks, and drivers are required to complete pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspection reports. These reports serve as vital evidence that can assist attorneys in determining and establishing fault. If you’ve been injured in a semi-truck accident, contact us now at (214) 764-3600 for a free consultation.
Most Common Types Of 18-Wheeler Accidents
The design of large commercial trucks renders them more susceptible to certain types of accidents compared to others. The unique shape and size of big rigs contribute to the occurrence of specific accident types. It is crucial for trucking companies to be aware of these accident types and provide proper training to their drivers to prevent them. Failing to do so, which leads to a traffic collision, could be considered negligence. Here are some of the most common types of semi-truck accidents and their primary causes:
Jackknife Accidents
A jackknife trucking accident occurs when the trailer of a big rig swings out at a 90-degree angle, creating a shape that resembles a jackknife with the cab. In such situations, truck drivers lose control of their vehicles, resulting in collisions with other vehicles or even rollovers. However, drivers can prevent jackknifing by employing proper braking techniques on downhill slopes or when driving on wet roads. By doing so, they can maintain control of their vehicles and avoid dangerous accidents.
Rollover Accidents
Excessive speed, incorrect braking, or sliding off the road can cause large trucks to roll over or tip over on curves. The consequences of a truck rollover are grave, potentially leading to a high-impact collision involving multiple vehicles on the highway. By driving at safe speeds, the risk of rollovers can be significantly reduced.
Tire Blowouts
If one or more of a truck’s 18 wheels experience a blowout while in transit, the consequences can be catastrophic. The trucker may lose control of the vehicle, potentially leading to collisions with other vehicles on the road. Additionally, the force of the blowout could even cause the truck to flip over. These blowouts can occur due to manufacturing defects, inadequate vehicle maintenance, or the presence of debris on the roadway.
Blind-Spot Accidents
Long commercial semi-trucks with trailers possess significant blind spots that can lead to accidents. If a trucker fails to meticulously check their mirrors prior to changing lanes, there is a risk of merging into other vehicles.
Lost Loads
Improperly securing cargo on a commercial truck can lead to hazardous incidents where loads are lost on the road. When materials fall from truck beds, they pose a threat to other vehicles, potentially causing accidents and endangering drivers’ lives. It is the responsibility of the loading team to adhere to federal rules and regulations in order to ensure the proper securing of cargo.
Determining Liability In An 18-Wheeler Accident
In order to obtain compensation for the losses you have suffered due to a semi-truck accident, it is crucial to establish the liability of one or more parties involved in the crash. However, trucking companies and drivers are often reluctant to accept responsibility or provide potential evidence, making this task complex. At JML Injury Law, our dedicated 18-wheeler accident lawyer in Frisco, TX possesses the necessary resources and expertise to thoroughly investigate the causes of your accident and file appropriate claims against all potentially liable parties.
Given the numerous parties that can be held accountable in an 18-wheeler accident, it is imperative to engage a law firm with the capabilities to delve deep into the circumstances surrounding your crash and identify all potential sources of liability. It is advisable to refrain from signing any documents until you have consulted with a personal injury lawyer, as doing so may jeopardize your rightful compensation.
Notably, a trucking company may have a significantly larger insurance policy compared to an individual driver, which can be crucial if you have sustained severe injuries. You deserve to receive the compensation entitled to you by law, which is why you need a truck accident law firm that will consistently cover all aspects on your behalf. Parties that can potentially be named as defendants in a truck accident claim include:
18-Wheeler Truck Drivers
Just like any other drivers, commercial 18-wheeler drivers are susceptible to making errors that can lead to severe accidents. Negligent behaviors such as distracted driving, drunk driving, fatigued driving, violating FMCSA regulations, and disregarding Texas traffic laws can all contribute to findings of negligence and liability on the part of truck drivers. These actions can have grave consequences and must be addressed to ensure the safety of our roads.
Trucking Companies
Reckless trucking companies may employ inexperienced or unreliable drivers, neglect truck maintenance, skip drug and alcohol tests for drivers, inadequately supervise their employees, or worse, encourage unsafe conduct. These actions significantly increase the risk of accidents. Moreover, when such negligent or dangerous acts by truck drivers employed by a company result in injuries, the company can generally be held strictly liable.
18-Wheeler Manufacturers
To ensure the safe operation of an 18-wheeler, it is crucial that all its components are in proper working order. Any defect or malfunction in these parts can potentially result in the loss of control over the massive vehicle, leading to accidents. Some examples of parts that, if faulty, can contribute to such incidents include brakes, coupling devices, steering columns, tires, wheels, axles, and more. It is imperative to address any issues promptly and maintain the utmost vigilance in order to prevent such mishaps from occurring.
Other Parties
Numerous external parties play a crucial role in maintaining and ensuring the safe operation of 18-wheelers. Mechanics who inadequately inspect, maintain, or repair trucks can cause malfunctions. Cargo-loading crews who improperly secure cargo may disrupt the balance of a truck or overload it, compromising the driver’s ability to stop in time. It is vital to consider the potential liability of parties beyond the truck driver or trucking company.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Regulations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enacts and enforces a wide variety of regulations that apply to all commercial vehicles operating on an interstate basis in the United States. This can encompass a variety of vehicles, such as semi-trucks, hazardous materials (hazmat) trucks, tanker trucks, flatbed trucks, and buses, among others. These regulations establish behavioral standards for numerous aspects of the trucking industry, including:
- Licensing
- Health conditions
- Hours of service
- Intoxicated driving
- Distracted driving
- Truck inspections
- Size and weight
Both trucking companies and drivers are subject to numerous additional federal regulations. When a serious truck accident occurs, it is crucial to have an experienced semi-truck accident lawyer in Frisco, Texas who possesses a comprehensive understanding of trucking safety standards and regulations. This ensures accurate identification of any violations that may have transpired.
Largest Trucking Companies In Texas
In the unfortunate event of a collision with a large truck, it is highly likely that you will need to discuss the incident with either the trucking company or their insurance provider in the future. The United States is home to a staggering 777,240 private trucking companies, with the majority (97%) operating fleets of 20 trucks or fewer. Among the states renowned for their trucking industry, Texas stands out with a remarkable number of trucking companies, including major corporations. Below are five prominent names in the trucking world located in Texas.
- Swift Transportation – Headquartered in Lancaster, Texas, Swift Transportation stands tall as one of the largest trucking companies in the state. Boasting an impressive fleet of 18,000 trucks and 57,300 trailers, Swift Transportation has established itself as a prominent player in the industry.
- JB Hunt Transportation Services, Inc. – JB Hunt is a prominent player in the industry across the nation, boasting a fleet of 10,900 trucks companywide.
- Central Freight Lines, Inc. – With a fleet of 1,751 units and a team of 1,518 skilled drivers, this Texas-based trucking company covered an impressive distance of 99,893,991 miles in 2016.
- A Truck Express, Inc. – This specialized on-demand trucking company excels in transporting bobtail and tractor-trailers within the Fort Worth area. With a fleet of 65 units, they ensure efficient and reliable transportation services.
- Texas Trucking Co. Inc. – The Texas Trucking Company has been operating in the state of Texas since 1976, boasting a fleet of 20 power units and a dedicated team of 18 drivers. While not the largest company in the industry, it has garnered a strong local reputation for its exceptional services.
If you find yourself in an accident involving one of Texas’ well-known or larger trucking companies, it’s crucial to seek assistance from a seasoned 18-wheeler accident attorney who specializes in handling such claims.
These prominent trucking companies have dealt with lawsuits and insurance claims in the past and have strategies in place to minimize the compensation for victims. You’ll be facing formidable opponents with significant resources and exceptional defense attorneys. To increase your chances of success, it’s essential to hire skilled litigators who can advocate for your rights effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Have to File a Police Report After a Truck Accident?
Yes. While laws may differ from one state to another, almost all states have specific regulations in place for reporting and exchanging information following a traffic accident. In situations involving injuries or fatalities, reporting requirements tend to be more stringent. Regardless of your state of residence, there are common reporting obligations that apply universally. These requirements include:
- In the event of a truck accident causing injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500, drivers are typically required to promptly report the incident to the local police or their state’s highway patrol. It’s important to note that the threshold amount may vary depending on the state. For instance, Texas has a $1,000 threshold.
- If you are involved in a truck accident that only results in property damage, it is necessary to stop at the scene and exchange insurance information, name, address, and license plate details with the other driver. Reporting this type of accident to the police is not always mandatory, but it is advisable in case of delayed injuries. Leaving the accident scene may result in criminal charges.
- When a traffic crash involves property damage, death, or injury, all drivers are required to exchange information with each other and, if requested, with law enforcement.
- Most states mandate that drivers involved in traffic accidents, including truck accidents, provide assistance to anyone who has sustained injuries. This includes calling 911 or taking them to the nearest emergency room if necessary.
- Many states have laws that exempt drivers from reporting accidents if they are too injured to do so. If law enforcement arrives at the scene, this requirement is fulfilled. However, if you are injured in an accident involving a truck that leaves the scene, it is necessary to report the incident to the nearest police station, county or parish, or highway patrol station.
- In situations where you are too injured to report an accident, you can usually rely on a passenger in your vehicle or a bystander to make the report. If you were not driving your own car, the owner of the vehicle can also report the accident.
How Do I Get a Copy of the Police Report After a Truck Accident?
Most states offer an online accident reporting system to store police reports from traffic accidents. However, it typically takes a few days or even weeks for your report to be processed and added to the system. Depending on your state, you may be able to order a copy of the report online by paying a small fee, which can be done by your semi-truck accident lawyer.
For example, if you need a Texas crash report, you can request it through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS). If you reside in a different state, it’s best to contact your local police department for guidance on obtaining a copy of your report. Make sure to have your photo identification ready, as you may need to complete some paperwork or provide a statement to receive the police report.
How Long Do You Have To File An 18-Wheeler Accident Claim In Texas?
The statute of limitations for truck accident cases in Texas is two years. This means that if you were injured in an 18-wheeler wreck in Texas, you have a two-year timeframe from the day of the accident to file your claim. It is crucial to file your claim within this window, as once it closes, you may no longer be able to seek compensation for your truck crash damages in Texas. Unfortunately, many truck accident victims mistakenly believe they have plenty of time to file their claims when in reality, they do not. That is why it is of utmost importance to promptly seek legal advice from an experienced Frisco 18-wheeler accident lawyer following your accident.
Contact Our Frisco 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer Now
Hiring an attorney for your Texas truck accident claim can have a tremendous impact on its outcome. At JML Injury Law, we have witnessed this firsthand. Once you have legal representation, large trucking companies and insurers start paying attention. They take your claim more seriously, offer higher settlement amounts, and respect your rights. Having a skilled Frisco 18-wheeler accident lawyer by your side during settlement negotiations can help you secure higher compensation for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, or the loss of a loved one. For more information, please call us today for a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help.