Trust a compassionate Gonzales truck accident lawyer to protect your rights after experiencing a fatal commercial truck collision.
An empty commercial truck typically weighs more than 33,000 pounds, carrying much of the nation’s freight every day. Due to its massive size and density, a collision with any of these vehicles could result in life-changing injuries.
The Patel Firm was established by genuine and skilled professionals prepared to assist you in reaching a settlement or pursuing litigation if necessary. We have successfully resolved countless cases and secured large settlements for clients in Gonzales and across Texas.
Our team specializes in handling personal injury cases from trucking accidents, car accidents, motor vehicle-related collisions, workplace injuries, oilfield accidents, insurance disputes, and premise liability accidents. Feel free to browse through our verified testimonials and five-star reviews on Google to see what our clients have to say.
Schedule a free consultation now with a reliable trucking accident injury attorney by calling (361) 400-2036 or filling out our secure online form. Our legal team is ready 24/7, and we want to discuss the best legal options available for your case.
Why Choose The Patel Firm
The firm’s president and principal attorney, Minesh J. Patel, has successfully secured millions of dollars for clients in cases such as car accidents, insurance disputes, and trucking accidents. His legal practice has allowed him to focus on personal injury litigation.
Minesh is also a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, Rue Ratings’ Best Attorneys in America, and has been recognized as “40 Best Under 40” by The National Trial Lawyers Association.
The Patel Firm is dedicated to providing exceptional representation for trucking accident victims in Gonzales and across Texas. We have passionate and knowledgeable team members who are genuinely committed to helping you or your loved ones secure the compensation you deserve and hold the negligent parties accountable.
Our tireless work ethic is evident in our detailed approach and the results we achieve. We are committed to your case and do not cut corners.
How Can We Help in A Truck Accident Case?
At The Patel Firm, we will guide you through the legal process after your accident. We provide personalized assistance and compassionate support for individuals injured in truck collisions, protecting your rights and securing the maximum compensation.
Our range of services includes:
Free Case Evaluation: Our free case evaluation allows you to discuss your situation with a legal professional at no cost. During this consultation, we’ll assess the merits of your case, explain your legal options, and determine how we can assist you. This initial meeting helps you understand whether you have a viable claim and what the next steps might be, all without any financial commitment.
Intensive Investigation: We conduct a comprehensive investigation of your case, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, reviewing documents, and analyzing all relevant facts. This thorough examination helps build a strong foundation for your case, uncovering all pertinent information to support your position and prepare for any challenges that might arise during negotiations or litigation.
Detailed Documentation: Proper documentation is essential for a successful case. This includes medical reports, police reports, contracts, and correspondence. It ensures we have a solid factual basis to support your claims and follow legal procedures correctly.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies: We handle all communication and negotiation with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement for your claim. Using the evidence and documentation we gather during our investigation, we will argue for the compensation you deserve for damages, injuries, or losses. In addition, our deep understanding of insurance policies and legal rights, combined with effective negotiation strategies, ensures you receive the maximum possible settlement.
Litigation: If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’re ready to take your case to court, and our experienced legal team will handle all aspects of litigation, from filing a lawsuit and presenting your case to cross-examining witnesses and making compelling legal arguments. We are determined to achieve a positive outcome for you through the intricate and sometimes lengthy litigation process.
About Truck Accidents in Gonzales
Gonzales is known for its cattle and poultry industries, which are complemented by oilfield services and light manufacturing enterprises. The town benefits from a short rail connection to a major Union-Pacific rail line, facilitating the movement of goods. The presence of oilfield services and the transportation of cattle and poultry products contribute to heavy truck traffic on Gonzales’ roads.
The increased movement of goods and workers, especially by trucks, heightens the risk of trucking accidents in the area. According to the latest reports, there were 86 total commercial motor vehicle crashes in Gonzales County, 10 of which resulted in suspected severe injuries and 16 of which resulted in suspected minor injuries.
If you are involved in a truck collision, contacting an experienced Gonzales truck accident attorney is crucial to learn more about your rights after the accident.
Types of Truck Accident Injuries
Personal injuries from trucking accidents can vary widely in their nature and severity. Here are some common types of truck collision injuries:
Whiplash: Whiplash occurs when the head and neck are suddenly jerked backward and then forward, often due to the impact of a collision. This rapid movement can strain or tear the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the neck, causing pain, stiffness, headaches, and restricted movement. In severe cases, whiplash can lead to long-term chronic pain and discomfort.
Broken Bones: Truck accidents can exert immense force on the body, resulting in fractures or breaks in bones. Common bones that can fracture include those in the arms, legs, ribs, and skull. The severity of the fracture depends on the impact and may range from hairline fractures to compound fractures that penetrate the skin.
Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries involve damage to the spinal cord itself or to the vertebrae, discs, or ligaments of the spinal column. Depending on the location and severity, spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, loss of sensation, and impaired bodily functions. e.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): TBIs occur when the head is subjected to sudden impact or rapid acceleration and deceleration forces, as is common in truck accidents. TBIs range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries that can lead to long-term cognitive, behavioral, and physical impairments. Symptoms may include confusion, loss of consciousness, memory problems, headaches, and changes in mood or behavior.
Internal Injuries: These injuries occur when internal organs suffer trauma from the force of a truck accident. Common internal injuries include bruising, bleeding, or damage to organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, lungs, or heart. Internal injuries can be life-threatening and require prompt medical intervention, including surgery, to repair damaged organs and control internal bleeding. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, tenderness, swelling, nausea, vomiting, and lightheadedness.
Cuts and Lacerations: These injuries result from contact with debris, broken glass, or sharp objects during a truck accident. Cuts and lacerations can vary from minor wounds requiring stitches to deep, severe cuts that may damage nerves, blood vessels, or muscles. Infections are a concern with open wounds, so thorough cleaning and proper wound care are essential to prevent complications.
Burns: These occur in truck accidents due to fires, explosions, or contact with hot surfaces or chemicals. Burns are classified by their depth and severity (first-degree, second-degree, third-degree). They can cause pain, swelling, blistering, and, in severe cases, damage to skin, tissues, and nerves.
Soft Tissue Injuries: These injuries involve damage to muscles, tendons, or ligaments that support and connect the body’s structures. In truck accidents, soft tissue injuries can result from sudden impact or forceful movements, leading to strains, sprains, or tears. Symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
Where Do Most Truck Accidents Occur?
Most truck accidents in Gonzales occur on the major highways and busy roads that support the town’s economic activities. The key areas where truck accidents are most likely to occur include:
- S. Highway 183: This major north-south route runs through Gonzales and is heavily utilized by trucks transporting goods and services. The high volume of commercial traffic on this highway increases the likelihood of accidents.
- Texas State Highway 97: Running east-west, this highway is another critical route for trucks, especially those related to the Eagle Ford Shale oilfield operations. The combination of local and through traffic makes it a common site for accidents.
- Texas State Highway 80: This highway also experiences significant truck traffic, contributing to its status as a hotspot for accidents, particularly where it intersects with other major roads.
- Local Roads near Industrial Areas: Roads serving industrial zones and manufacturing enterprises in Gonzales see a lot of truck traffic. Due to the frequent movement of heavy vehicles, these areas are particularly prone to accidents.
Types of Damages and Compensation From A Truck Accident Lawsuit
In a trucking accident lawsuit, the injured party seeks compensation to address the various impacts of their injury, including physical, emotional, and financial losses. The different types of damages that can be awarded are crucial for ensuring fair compensation and accountability for the responsible party.
Here is an overview of the common types of damages and compensation available in truck accident cases:
Medical Expenses: Injuries resulting from truck collisions are often severe and likely to incur high medical expenses. This includes current and future medical costs related to the injury, such as hospital bills, doctor’s visits, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
Lost Wages: If you’ve experienced a loss of income due to an injury, you may be entitled to compensation for wages from missed workdays, reduced work hours, or the inability to work in the future.
Pain and Suffering: In the event of an injury, compensation may cover the physical and emotional distress experienced, encompassing pain, discomfort, anxiety, depression, and the loss of enjoyment of life.
Loss of Consortium: When someone is injured, their spouse or family members may be eligible to receive compensation for the loss of companionship, support, and intimacy they have experienced as a result of the injury.
Property Damage: Compensation for any damage to the plaintiff’s property, such as a vehicle in a trucking accident or personal belongings in a premises liability case.
Punitive Damages: In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party for particularly reckless or intentional conduct.
Role of a Specialized Attorney
The legal process after getting injured in a trucking accident can be daunting, especially when you should be focusing on your recovery. That’s why it’s crucial to consult with a truck accident attorney.
Here are key aspects of their role:
Legal Expertise and Guidance: Truck accident attorneys specialize in personal injury law and provide expert guidance on cases such as car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace injuries, and wrongful death to ensure clients understand their rights and the legal process.
Case Evaluation and Investigation: An experienced attorney evaluates a client’s case thoroughly by collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, reviewing medical records, and consulting with experts to build a strong case.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Lawyers will manage all communication and negotiation with insurance companies for their clients to secure a fair settlement covering medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. They are skilled at dealing with insurance companies’ tactics to minimize payouts.
Representation in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, a personal injury attorney will represent their client in court. Additionally, they prepare and present the case, argue on behalf of the client, and strive to achieve the best possible outcome through litigation.
Calculating Damages: When determining the value of a personal injury claim, attorneys consider factors such as medical bills, future medical needs, loss of earning capacity, and non-economic damages. They aim to ensure that clients receive full compensation for their injuries.
Providing Support and Advocacy: Throughout the legal process, truck accident attorneys act as advocates for their clients, providing emotional support and ensuring that their clients’ voices are heard. They also handle all legal aspects of the case, allowing clients to focus on recovery.
Contingency Fee Basis: Truck accident injury attorneys often work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they win the case. This approach makes legal representation accessible to more people and ensures that the attorney’s interests are aligned with those of their clients.
Working With A Local Truck Accident Lawyer
Working with a local Gonzales truck accident lawyer can offer several benefits:
Understanding of Local Laws: A local lawyer will be well-versed in the specific laws and regulations governing commercial trucking accidents in Gonzales and across Texas. This allows you to receive accurate legal advice tailored to your case.
Accessibility and Convenience: Being based in Gonzales means that your lawyer is easily accessible for meetings, consultations, and updates on your case. This can provide you with peace of mind and a sense of control over your legal proceedings.
Personalized Attention: A local lawyer is more likely to provide personalized attention to your case, as they are familiar with the unique aspects of the local community and can tailor their approach to meet your specific needs.
Local Resources and Connections: A local lawyer has established relationships with local experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals, which can strengthen your case and provide valuable support. This can help you gain access to the best professionals in the field.
Navigating Legal Complexities in Truck Accidents
It’s crucial to stay updated on the evolving legal landscape of personal injuries, including new regulations, court filings, and legal precedents. State laws and regulations vary, so it’s important to be familiar with Texas laws if you’ve suffered injuries in Gonzales or elsewhere in the state.
Statute of Limitations
If you have been injured and want to pursue legal action for incidents such as truck accidents, injuries on someone else’s property, or harm from a defective product, you typically have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. If someone damages your reputation with a false statement, as in defamation cases, you have one year to take legal action. In cases of medical malpractice, you usually have two years from the date of the malpractice or the end of your treatment to file a lawsuit.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes regulations to ensure the safety of both truck drivers and the public. These regulations encompass areas such as truck maintenance, weight limits, loading procedures, and driver qualifications. Unfortunately, violations of these regulations by truck drivers and companies are still occurring, resulting in accidents that can lead to injuries, fatalities, and property damage.
Drug Test Post-Accident
According to FMCSA regulations, truck drivers must undergo drug and alcohol testing after most road accidents, especially those involving fatalities. These tests should ideally be done as soon as possible but must be completed within 32 hours of the accident. The results can be used as evidence in any resulting lawsuits against the truck driver.
Contact A Gonzales-based Truck Accident Lawyer Now
If you or someone you love is suffering injuries from a truck collision, reach out to an award-winning Gonzales truck accident attorney immediately.
Trucking accidents typically involve various parties, including drivers, pedestrians, trucking companies, and insurance companies, complicating the legal process. An experienced legal representative in the field can help you find the person responsible for the crash and secure maximum compensation for the damages.
Get your free consultation now by calling us at (361) 400-2036 or message us through our online form to discuss your legal options.
