Schedule an appointment with a renowned Bedford truck accident lawyer at The Patel Firm so you can go through your legal proceedings stress-free and get your life back on track.
Vehicular accidents can be traumatic, but getting hit by a truck is exceptionally tragic. A standard truck weighs an average of 3 tons without the load, and a collision with these vehicles could have devastating results. Unfortunately, these incidents are not new to Bedford, where many individuals and families have experienced the severe impact of these collisions.
Unlike private vehicle drivers, truck drivers are usually associated with employers, contractors, or trucking companies, which complicates accountability. This is where the services of a truck accident lawyer can benefit those who are injured in a trucking collision, and The Patel Firm stands out as one of the leading firms to provide first-class representation and unwavering support in this field.
The Patel Firm has successfully resolved countless cases and secured millions of dollars for clients in Bedford and all of 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.
At The Patel Firm, we work tirelessly to ensure that the results of your claim speak to the quality of our work. Feel free to browse through our verified testimonials and five-star reviews on Google to know more about what our clients are saying.
To get a free consultation, call (361) 400-2036 now or send us a message through our online form. There are no upfront fees, and we only charge once we win or settle your case.
Why Choose The Patel Firm
Minesh J. Patel, the firm’s president and principal attorney, represented many clients and has successfully secured substantial recoveries for cases like car accidents, insurance disputes, and trucking accidents. His legal practice has allowed him to focus on personal injury litigation, and the team at The Patel Firm is dedicated to seeking justice so you can focus on recovering from your injuries.
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.
Our team at The Patel Firm is dedicated to providing exceptional representation for personal injury victims in Bedford and throughout 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.
How We Can Help in a Truck Accident Case
At Patel Firm, we are dedicated to guiding you through the legal process from start to finish. We offer comprehensive assistance and compassionate support for truck collision victims, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the maximum compensation possible.
Our services include:
Free Case Evaluation
Our free case evaluation allows potential clients to discuss their cases with a legal professional at no cost. During this consultation, an attorney will assess the case’s merits, explain the legal options available, and determine if our firm can assist. This initial evaluation helps clients understand whether they have a viable claim and the next steps to take, all without any financial commitment.
In-Depth Investigation
We conduct a thorough and detailed investigation of all aspects of your case. This process includes gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, reviewing documents, and analyzing facts to build a strong foundation. Our goal is to uncover all relevant information, identify any potential weaknesses, and prepare for challenges that may arise during negotiations or litigation.
Documentation
Proper documentation is crucial for substantiating claims and ensuring legal procedures are correctly followed. We collect, organize, and maintain all necessary paperwork and records related to your case, such as contracts, medical records, police reports, and correspondence. This organized approach helps present a clear and compelling case to insurance companies or in court.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies
We handle communication and negotiation with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement for your claim. Using the evidence and documentation gathered during the investigation, we argue for appropriate compensation for your damages, injuries, or losses. Our deep understanding of insurance policies, legal rights, and effective negotiation strategies ensures you receive the maximum possible settlement.
Litigation
If a settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, we are prepared to take legal action and resolve disputes through the court system. This involves filing a lawsuit, presenting the case before a judge or jury, and adhering to procedural rules and timelines. Our skilled legal representation will advocate for your interests, present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and make legal arguments to achieve a favorable outcome.
About Truck Accidents in Bedford
In 2023, Texas reported over 26,000 truck crashes, resulting in 160 fatal injuries, 621 severe injuries, and 2,815 minor injuries. Texas is not only dangerous for truck drivers but also ranks as the seventh riskiest state for all types of crashes, and Bedford is not exempt from this.
Even with only over 48,000 citizens, Bedford is still prone to trucking accidents as it is home to major highways such as TX-121 and TX-183. The urban development in the area increases congestion, and some local roads are not well-suited for large trucks. Additionally, certain weather conditions can make driving hazardous, and the long hauls and tight schedules of truck drivers contribute to driver fatigue.
It’s typically more difficult to operate a commercial truck than a regular vehicle. Trucks are larger in size, and as a result, drivers are seated higher off the ground. They also have more blind spots, so it’s only natural for truck drivers to be held to a higher standard and required to have a special Commercial Driver’s License.
Trust an experienced Bedford truck accident attorney to help you gain more insights about what legal actions to take after suffering injuries from a truck collision.
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: Trucking 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. Treatment often involves immobilization, surgery, and rehabilitation.
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.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): TBIs occur when the head is subjected to sudden impact or rapid acceleration and deceleration forces. 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 collision. 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 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. 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?
Truck accidents in Bedford, as in many areas, commonly occur on major highways and intersections where there is heavy traffic and potential for congestion. Some specific locations where these incidents might occur more frequently include:
- Interstate 820 (I-820): This highway forms part of the eastern border of Bedford and sees a significant amount of truck traffic due to its role in connecting to other major highways in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
I-820 in Fort Worth is experiencing increased traffic and construction due to the North Tarrant Express Capacity Improvement Project. This project aims to add a free general-purpose lane in each direction along the north loop of I-820 and a tolled lane along the Airport Freeway. This construction is part of a three-and-a-half-year project expected to complete by 2027.
- State Highway 121 (TX-121): This highway runs through Bedford and can experience congestion, especially at peak times, which increases the risk of accidents involving trucks.
The recent fatal crash on Texas 121 vividly illustrates the dangers of speeding through traffic. The driver of a Chevrolet SUV, reportedly traveling at high speeds and weaving through vehicles, attempted an unsafe pass on the inside shoulder. This reckless maneuver led to a collision with a disabled pickup truck and subsequently with a Mazda, resulting in the SUV catching fire.
- Other Major Intersections: Busy intersections along major roads such as TX-121 and TX-183 (Airport Freeway) can be prone to truck accidents due to frequent lane changes, turning movements, and varying speeds of different vehicles.
Types of Damages and Compensation From A Truck Accident Lawsuit
In a truck accident lawsuit, the injured party pursues compensation to address the diverse effects of their injury, such as physical, emotional, and financial losses. The various types of damages that can be granted are essential for ensuring fair compensation and holding the responsible party accountable.
Let’s take a closer look at the common types of damages and compensation that are 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 car 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
It can be extremely stressful to deal with the legal aspects following a trucking accident, especially when you should be focusing on recovering from physical and emotional injuries. This makes it crucial to seek advice from a specialized truck accident attorney. The legal team at The Patel Firm is not only highly skilled but also compassionate.
Here are key aspects of their role:
Legal Expertise and Guidance: Truck accident attorneys have specialized knowledge in the field of personal injury law, including the nuances of various types of cases such as car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace injuries, and wrongful death, and they provide expert legal guidance to ensure that clients understand their rights and the legal process.
Case Evaluation and Investigation: An experienced attorney will thoroughly evaluate the details of a client’s case to determine its merit. This involves gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, reviewing medical records, and consulting with experts to build a strong case.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Truck accident attorneys handle all communications and negotiations with insurance companies on behalf of their clients, and their goal is to secure a fair settlement that covers all damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. They are skilled negotiators who understand the tactics used by insurance companies 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: Determining the value of a personal injury claim involves more than just adding up medical bills. Attorneys consider all factors, including future medical needs, loss of earning capacity, and non-economic damages such as emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life. They work 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: Many truck collision injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win the case, and this arrangement makes legal representation accessible to those who might not afford it otherwise and aligns the attorney’s interests with those of their clients.
Legal Strategies and Client Representation
The Patel Firm focuses on meeting clients’ needs by creating tailored strategies to ensure that the responsible parties are held accountable and clients receive maximum compensation. This involves conducting thorough case evaluations and reviewing essential documents such as medical records, accident reports, and witness testimonies to develop personalized legal strategies in line with the client’s goals.
The firm values transparent and consistent communication, keeping clients well-informed and involved throughout the legal process. By maintaining open lines of communication, the firm ensures that clients feel supported and confident in their legal journey.
Negotiation skills are a crucial part of the firm’s approach, especially when dealing with insurance companies that may undervalue settlements. In cases where a settlement cannot be reached, the firm is fully prepared to take the case to court.
The Patel Firm understands the complexities involved in personal injury cases and is dedicated to offering personalized approaches to help clients attain justice without sacrificing compassion.
Working With A Local Truck Accident Lawyer
Working with a local Bedford 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 truck accidents in Bedford and across Texas. This allows you to receive accurate legal advice tailored to your case.
Accessibility and Convenience: Being based in Bedford means that your lawyer is easily accessible for meetings, consultations, and updates on your case, which 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
The legal landscape of truck accident injuries continues to evolve with new regulations, court filings, and legal precedents. Additionally, the laws in every state vary, so it’s essential to stay updated with the changes to advocate for the client effectively. If you suffered injuries in Bedford or in Texas, it’s good to be knowledgeable of the state laws and regulations.
Statute of Limitations
In cases of personal injury such as truck accidents, injuries on another person’s property, or a defective product, the usual time limit to file a lawsuit is two years from the date of the injury. In defamation cases where someone harms your reputation with a false statement, you generally have one year to take legal action. As for medical malpractice, you typically 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 aimed at ensuring the safety of both truck drivers and the general public. These regulations pertain to various aspects such as truck maintenance, weight restrictions, loading protocols, and qualifications for drivers. Despite these regulations, instances of non-compliance by truck drivers and companies persist, resulting in accidents that may lead to injuries, fatalities, and damage to property.
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 Bedford-Based Truck Accident Lawyer Now
Reach out to a reliable Bedford-based truck accident lawyer at The Patel Firm to help you sort out your truck collision claim and receive compensation according to your injuries and damages. With our years of experience and endless legal resources, we are the best advocates for your interests.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident in Bedford and has suffered injuries or property damage, it’s crucial to contact a specialized truck accident attorney at The Patel Firm immediately.
Don’t delay justice — contact one of our attorneys by calling (361) 400-2036 or completing our online form to explore your legal options. Remember, consultation is free of charge!
