Don’t hesitate to contact a Baytown truck accident lawyer at The Patel Firm for your urgent legal needs if you’ve suffered injuries from an accident with a commercial vehicle.
Trucks, in their monstrous size and unbearable weight, are more difficult to operate than regular-sized cars. Because of their imposing characteristics, trucks pose a significant risk to workers and pedestrians, and the injuries could be catastrophic.
Unlike private vehicle drivers, truck drivers are usually associated with employers, contractors, or trucking companies, making it crucial to seek a trustworthy attorney who can manage your case with ease.
The Patel Firm is dedicated to providing first-class representation for personal injury victims in Baytown and all across Texas. We are genuine and passionate people who are well-versed in the legal field. We believe in going to great lengths to maximize compensation for our clients, and we will stop at nothing to achieve that. Our commitment and passion are evident in our verified testimonials from satisfied Baytown residents and five-star reviews on Google.
We understand that life is never the same after a tragedy, but we keep moving forward. Contact us at (361) 400-2036 or fill out our secure online form for a free consultation. Our compassionate team is always ready to take your call.
Why Choose The Patel Firm
The firm’s president and principal attorney, Minesh J. Patel, has successfully secured substantial recoveries for clients in cases like car accidents, insurance disputes, and trucking accidents. His legal practice has allowed him to focus on personal injury and personal injury litigation, and the team at The Patel Firm has been committed to bringing our clients’ cases to justice.
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.
We have passionate and knowledgeable legal professionals who are genuinely committed to helping you or your loved ones secure the compensation you deserve and hold the negligent parties accountable.
How Can We Help in A Truck Accident Case?
We provide comprehensive assistance and dedicated support for truck accident victims, protecting your rights and securing the maximum compensation. At The Patel Firm, we will guide you through the legal process from beginning to end.
Our range of services includes:
Free Case Evaluation
A free case evaluation is a service offered by law firms where potential clients can discuss their cases with a legal professional at no cost. The attorney will assess the case, explain legal options, and determine if the firm can assist. This helps clients understand if they have a viable claim and the next steps without any financial commitment.
In-Depth Investigation
An in-depth investigation entails a comprehensive examination of all aspects of a legal case, including gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, reviewing documents, and analyzing facts to build a strong case foundation. The goal is to uncover relevant information, identify weaknesses, and prepare for potential challenges during negotiations or litigation.
Documentation
Documentation involves gathering, organizing, and upkeeping all required paperwork and records related to a legal case, such as contracts, medical records, police reports, correspondence, and other relevant documents. This is essential for establishing the factual basis of the case, substantiating claims, and ensuring proper adherence to legal procedures. Clear and comprehensive documentation is also crucial for presenting a strong case to insurance companies or in court.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies
Negotiating with insurance companies involves communicating and bargaining to reach a fair settlement for a client’s claim. Attorneys use crucial evidence to argue for compensation for damages, injuries, or losses, requiring a deep understanding of insurance policies and effective negotiation strategies.
Litigation
Litigation is the legal process for resolving disputes through the court system. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to litigation, which involves filing a lawsuit, presenting the case, and adhering to procedural rules. It requires skilled legal representation to advocate for the client’s interests and achieve a favorable outcome.
About Truck Accidents in Baytown
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, nearly 182,000 truck crashes in 2023 led to about 5,000 deaths and over 86,000 injuries, making Texas one of the top states with the highest number of fatalities caused by trucking accidents.
Driving a commercial truck is different from driving a private vehicle, which is why it requires a Commercial Driver’s License. Without the load, trucks already weigh a lot more than regular vehicles, so they need more skill to operate. Trucks also have a high center of gravity, making them prone to capsizing when running at excessive speed.
Most trucking companies have the means to compensate victims fairly, but instead, they spend a lot of money to defend themselves against the claims. As a result, they lowball the victims’ settlement, and if you aren’t well aware of these predatory practices, you could receive less than you deserve.
Approaching an injury claim following a truck accident with extreme caution is crucial. Contact an experienced Baytown truck accident attorney today to learn more about your legal rights after a truck collision.
Types of Truck Accident Injuries
Many people involved in large truck crashes suffer severe injuries due to the sheer size and force of the vehicles. The victims often endure traumatic pain and suffering while awaiting medical treatment. Here are the common injuries resulting from truck accidents:
Broken Bones or Fractures: Truck crashes can cause broken bones or fractures, leading to varying healing times and potential long-term complications such as chronic pain or limited mobility.
Internal Organ Injuries: These involve damage to organs like the liver, spleen, lungs, or stomach. These injuries are not immediately visible and may lead to severe complications such as internal bleeding and organ failure. Immediate medical attention is necessary to prevent life-threatening conditions.
Spinal Cord Injuries: These can cause partial or complete paralysis, impacting movement and sensation below the injury site, and they often result in long-term disability, chronic pain, and the need for extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Traumatic brain injuries result from a blow to the head, causing a range of cognitive, emotional, and physical impairments. Recovery can be long and challenging, with some individuals never fully regaining their previous level of function.
Closed Head Injuries: These involve brain damage without a skull fracture, typically caused by a violent blow to the head, and these injuries can result in symptoms similar to TBIs, including memory loss, dizziness, headaches, and cognitive difficulties. They require careful monitoring and treatment to manage potential complications.
Skull Fractures: These are serious injuries caused by severe impacts, potentially leading to brain damage, infections, and internal bleeding. Treatment may involve surgery and a long recovery period.
Concussions: These are mild traumatic brain injuries caused by a blow to the head, resulting in temporary disruption of brain function. Symptoms include headaches, confusion, and balance problems. While many concussions heal with rest, repeated concussions can lead to long-term cognitive issues and require careful management to avoid further injury.
Contusions: These are caused by blunt force trauma leading to bleeding under the skin. They can result in swelling, pain, and potential damage to underlying tissues. While most contusions heal on their own, severe cases may require medical intervention to manage pain and reduce swelling.
Sprains and Strains: The most common RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) method is often used to treat both sprains and strains, which involve injuries to ligaments and injuries to muscles and tendons, respectively.
Where Do Most Truck Accidents Occur?
Some areas in Baytown are at higher risk for truck accidents due to factors such as heavy traffic, complex road networks, and significant industrial activity. These areas include:
Interstate 10 (I-10) at the San Jacinto River Bridge: This stretch of I-10 is known for heavy truck traffic and frequent congestion. The narrow lanes and ongoing construction projects in this area contribute to a higher risk of accidents. The San Jacinto River Bridge is particularly notorious for accidents due to its challenging driving conditions.
State Highway 146 (SH 146) near the Fred Hartman Bridge: SH 146 is a major north-south route for trucks traveling to and from industrial areas. The Fred Hartman Bridge, a key segment of this highway, sees significant truck traffic and has a history of accidents due to its steep inclines and high traffic volume.
Industrial areas such as ExxonMobil Baytown Complex: This is one of the largest petrochemical complexes in the world, with constant truck traffic transporting chemicals and refined products. The high volume of large vehicles and the complex layout of the industrial site make it a hotspot for truck accidents.
Types of Damages and Compensation From A Truck Accident Lawsuit
Truck accident cases can lead to litigation that might eventually reach a courtroom, where a “jury award” is commonly referred to as compensatory damages. These damages are intended to compensate the victim for their losses and come in two forms: economic and noneconomic damages.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are tangible financial losses resulting from the accident. These often include:
- Lost Wages
- Medical Bills
- Property Damage
- Rehabilitation Expenses
- Costs of Long-Term Care
- Physical Therapy Costs
Noneconomic Damages
Noneconomic damages are more subjective and relate to non-financial losses. These often include:
- Emotional Distress
- Pain and Suffering
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life
- Mental Anguish
Punitive Damages
In rare cases, punitive damages, known as exemplary damages in Texas, may be awarded. According to Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 41.003, punitive damages require clear and convincing evidence that the harm was due to fraud, malice, or gross negligence.
The amount awarded is limited to two times the economic damages plus an amount equal to any noneconomic damages up to $750,000 or $200,000, whichever is greater.
Role of a Specialized Attorney
No one should have to experience the difficulties of being involved in a trucking accident. However, these tragedies are out of our control. Through it all, it’s essential to consult with an experienced truck accident attorney to guide you through the legal process from start to finish. We are committed to your case, and we do not cut corners.
If you ever face such challenges, it’s crucial to be represented by dedicated and experienced Baytown truck accident attorneys who will work to the best of their ability to hold the negligent parties liable and obtain the best possible settlement.
Working With A Local Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accidents can be categorized into various types based on the nature of the collision and the circumstances surrounding the incident. Here are the common types:
Understanding of Local Laws: A local lawyer will be well-versed in the specific laws and regulations governing truck accidents in Baytown and across Texas. This allows you to receive accurate legal advice tailored to your case.
Accessibility and Convenience: Being based in Baytown 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 personal 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 Baytown or in Texas, it’s good to be knowledgeable of the state laws and regulations.
Statute of Limitations
If you’re a victim of a trucking accident and you want to sue the liable party, you usually have two years to file a lawsuit from the date of injury, and if someone hurts your reputation with a false statement, like in defamation cases, you have one year to sue. For medical malpractice, you generally 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) sets rules to keep truck drivers and the public safe. These rules cover things like truck maintenance, weight limits, loading procedures, and driver qualifications. However, violations of these rules by truck drivers and companies still happen, leading to accidents that can cause injuries, deaths, 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 Baytown Truck Accident Lawyer Now
Trust a Baytown-based truck accident lawyer to alleviate some of your legal worries so you can focus on recovering quickly. You don’t have to face this tragedy alone.
Given the size and weight of a commercial truck, injuries from a truck collision are often serious. No one else understands the urgency of these situations better than us, and we made it our mission to always do our best to respond to each unique case.
Legal action can make all the difference to your situation. Our firm will handle all the necessary negotiations on your behalf. Rest assured, you will have our full support if we proceed with a trial. You can reach out to us by calling (361) 400-2036 or contact us online to receive a free consultation with one of our attorneys.
