What causes truck accidents? Is it usually the same thing, like a driver texting while behind the wheel?

Although texting while behind the wheel of a truck is often a cause cited as being the reason for an accident, it is not the only reason for accidents involving trucks. Contributing to and the most common causes that result in a truck accident can include:

DWI/DUI
Under the influence of prescription or street drugs
Ignoring traffic rules and regulations
Speeding
Tailgating
An improperly loaded cargo
Driver fatigue
Texting while driving
Bad weather
Driving to fast for weather and road conditions
Poor inspections
Improper or no maintenance
Unqualified driver
Improperly trained driver
Unrealistic deadlines to deliver cargo
Driver error
Low fill liquid loads
Rear-end crashes
Distracted driving

Those who do not drive a truck may not realize that commercial vehicles need a lot more time and distance to stop. For instance, if you are driving a regular vehicle, which weighs approximately 4,000 pounds or so, and you are doing 65 mph, you would need 316 feet to come to a full stop. However, if you were driving a tractor-trailer that can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, you would need at least 525 feet (or two football fields) to come to a stop.

In most truck accident case you could sue the trucking company. However, it is typically not “just” the trucking company that could be sued. There are often more named defendents in a truck accident because not all truckers own the truck they drive.

In truck accidents in Texas, the trucker/driver may be sued, and so can the truck owner, the lessor, if the truck is leased, the trucking company and company owner(s), the trailer owner, the person leasing the trailer, the load owner and even the maintenance mechanic. More defendents means more insurance on the table to negotiate a settlement or take the case to trial if necessary.

Trucking accident cases can take many months or even years to settle due to the complexity of each case. There are usually also jurisdictional issues that arise given that not all truck accidents involve a truck that domiciles in the same state as the accident.

We have dealt with truck accidents for decades and we’re here to help you through a complicated lawsuit. We also take care of dealing with the numerous insurance companies involved in a trucking accident. We collect all evidence and investigate the scene and provide an accurate estimate of the total value of your claim.

Each case is different and we outline the compensation you may recover depending on the nature and severity of your injuries as a result of being in a Texas truck accident. The first consultation is free.

What you can recover after a truck accident

Typically, you can recover for:

Pain and suffering
Vehicle damage
Emotional distress
Costs for future treatment
Costs for renovations to a home
Loss of future income
Medical costs
Loss of enjoyment of life
Funeral and burial expenses

Other Austin Truck Accident FAQs: