Truck accidents in Texas can leave lives upended in an instant. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks can lead to catastrophic damage, serious injuries, and significant financial burdens. In these moments, knowing your legal rights and understanding Texas Truck accident laws becomes essential to seeking the justice and compensation you deserve.
At Truck Law, we’ve seen firsthand how these accidents impact individuals and families. We’re committed to helping you hold the responsible parties accountable while securing the financial relief needed to rebuild your life. Let’s take a closer look at what you need to know about liability and compensation in Texas truck accident cases.
Determining Liability In A Texas Truck Accident
One of the most critical elements of a truck accident case is determining who is legally responsible. Unlike a typical car accident, truck accidents often involve multiple parties. The truck driver may seem like the most obvious liable party, but other entities, such as the trucking company or even the vehicle manufacturer, may share responsibility.
For instance, if a driver violated federal trucking regulations, such as exceeding hours-of-service limits, they could be held accountable for negligence. Similarly, if a trucking company failed to maintain its fleet or encouraged unsafe practices to meet tight deadlines, they could share liability. In some cases, a defective part, such as faulty brakes or tires, could place the manufacturer at fault.
Texas law evaluates each party’s role and apportions responsibility accordingly. This is where federal regulations, like those from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), play a significant role in identifying breaches of duty. Compliance with FMCSA rules is mandatory, and violations often serve as evidence of negligence in court.
How Comparative Negligence Impacts Compensation
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system when determining damages. This means that your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident. For example, if a court finds you 20% at fault for a collision, your total compensation will be reduced by that percentage.
However, Texas law also includes a “51% Bar Rule.” This means if you’re found to be more than 50% at fault, you’re not eligible to recover any compensation. These rules make it essential to gather evidence, document the scene, and work with professionals who can help build a strong case.
Common Scenarios In Texas Truck Accidents
Many truck accidents arise from preventable scenarios. For instance, distracted driving, speeding, and fatigue are frequent contributors. Additionally, improperly loaded cargo can cause rollovers or jackknife accidents.
Consider a scenario where a truck driver, under pressure to meet tight delivery deadlines, skips required rest breaks and falls asleep at the wheel. The resulting accident could devastate other drivers on the road. In this case, both the driver and the company pushing unreasonable schedules could be held liable.
Alternatively, imagine an accident caused by a truck’s braking system failure. Investigations may reveal that the brakes were not properly maintained, implicating both the trucking company and the maintenance provider.
Seeking Justice And Compensation
Recovering from a truck accident isn’t just about healing physically—financial recovery is equally critical. Victims often face mounting medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation costs. Pursuing legal action under Texas truck accident laws provides a path to recover these expenses and hold those at fault accountable.
While the process may feel overwhelming, having the right legal team by your side makes a difference. Our goal at Truck Law is to fight for justice on your behalf, giving you the confidence and support to move forward.
Take Action Today
If you or a loved one has been affected by a truck accident, don’t hesitate to seek help. Your rights matter, and there’s a path to accountability and compensation waiting for you. Reach out to Truck Law today for a consultation, and let’s work together to protect your future.