San Antonio Truck Accident Attorney

Injured in a San Antonio Trucking Accident? Contact the Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz!

Commercial trucks can cause immense damage to other drivers and vehicles on the road. Unfortunately, when an accident with these vehicles occurs, victims are often left with serious injuries. If you have been injured in an 18-wheeler accident due to another party's negligence, you’ll want to work with our trucking accident lawyer. Navigating the aftermath of such accidents can be intricate due to the complexities of federal and state trucking regulations. Our lawyers are equipped to handle these challenges head-on, ensuring that you receive comprehensive representation endeavoring to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

FREE CONSULTATION - NO UPFRONT FEES - ONLY PAY IF AND WHEN YOU WIN - 25% CONTINGENCY FEE WHEN A CASE IS SETTLED WITHOUT A LAWSUIT BEING FILED FOR ALL PERSONAL INJURY CASES

Hiring a truck accident attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process of obtaining compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and other damages. At the Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz, our attorney is dedicated to advocating for victims of truck accidents and pursuing the justice they deserve. With our extensive legal experience and resources, we can help you seek financial compensation and hold the responsible parties accountable for their negligence. In addition to that, our team offers individualized attention to each case, ensuring every detail is meticulously scrutinized to build a robust legal strategy aimed at maximizing your compensation while minimizing any legal hurdles you may face.

We handle truck cases involving:

• Defective Truck Equipment
• Overloaded Trucks
• Unsecured Loads
• Poorly Trained Truck Drivers
• Truck Driver Fatigue
• Truck Driver Log Violations
• Substance Abuse Violations
• Delivery Truck Accidents
• Cargo Truck Accidents
• Semi-Truck/18-Wheeler Truck Accidents
• Cement Truck Accidents

Don't wait any longer to seek legal advice, contact our San Antonio trucking accident lawyer at (210) 592-4181. We offer free consultations and free case evaluations.

Understanding Texas Trucking Regulations

Texas, being a major hub for freight and goods transportation, has specific regulations to ensure the safety of all road users. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) enforces rules aligned with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Key regulations include restrictions on hours of service for truck drivers to prevent fatigue, mandatory vehicle inspections, and compliance with weight and size limits to maintain road safety. Additionally, all trucks operating in Texas must adhere to regular maintenance schedules to preserve optimal operating conditions and reduce accident risk.

In San Antonio, these regulations are critical due to the high volume of commercial traffic traversing I-35 and I-10. The city's role as a strategic link between major Texas cities like Austin and Houston necessitates stringent oversight of trucking operations to minimize accidents. Our legal team is well-versed in these laws, providing you with a valuable edge when pursuing justice and compensation. By understanding these regulations, we ensure that any violations by trucking companies or drivers are identified and leveraged to strengthen your legal position.

Local Hazards & Common Causes of Truck Accidents

San Antonio's trucking landscape is shaped by its unique geography and traffic patterns. The city's bustling roadways, interspersed with construction zones and ever-changing traffic signals, create a challenging environment for truck drivers. Common causes of accidents in the area often include driver fatigue, speeding, and inadequate training. These factors are compounded by frequent road works and high-speed traffic on the city's interconnected highways, presenting significant hazards for commercial trucks.

Weather also plays a crucial role in local accidents, with sudden rainstorms resulting in slippery road conditions and reduced visibility. Our law firm stays informed on these regional challenges, offering targeted legal strategies that address their impact on accident liabilities. By considering local factors, we provide a comprehensive approach to litigation, ensuring that every detail is examined to support your claim for compensation. Understanding local hazards allows us to tailor our services and better advocate for your rights.

FAQ: Your Truck Accident Questions Answered

What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Truck Accident?

If you're involved in a truck accident in San Antonio, it's essential to prioritize your safety first. Move to a safe location, if possible, and call 911 to report the accident and get medical assistance. Document the scene by taking photos and gathering witness information. Report the accident to your insurance company, but avoid making detailed statements until you've consulted with an attorney. Record all medical treatments and keep a detailed account of any expenses and missed workdays. Contacting a San Antonio truck accident attorney can help guide you through the subsequent legal proceedings.

How Do I Determine Liability in a Truck Accident?

Determining liability in a truck accident involves examining various factors such as driver conduct, vehicle maintenance records, and adherence to federal and state trucking regulations. Often, liability can rest with multiple parties including the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, or even cargo loaders. An experienced attorney will conduct a thorough investigation to ascertain negligence by reviewing evidence such as driver logs, maintenance records, and potential regulatory violations. Establishing liability is crucial in pursuing fair compensation for injuries and damages sustained in the accident.

Can I Still File a Claim If I Was Partially Responsible for the Accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still file a claim if you are partially at fault, as long as your responsibility does not exceed 50%. However, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by that amount. Consulting with a knowledgeable truck accident attorney San Antonio can help in building a compelling case that minimizes your liability and maximizes your potential compensation.

What Compensation Can I Pursue Following a Truck Accident?

In the aftermath of a truck accident, you may seek compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. In cases of gross negligence, punitive damages may also be pursued to punish the responsible party. Our attorneys meticulously calculate these damages to ensure you receive fair compensation, considering both immediate and long-term financial and emotional impacts. By thoroughly documenting your losses, we aim to provide a comprehensive case that articulates your needs and alleviates your financial burden.

How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Claim in Texas?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a truck accident claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. This timeframe emphasizes the importance of acting swiftly to secure legal representation and preserve evidence. Failure to file within this period may forfeit your right to pursue compensation. Our firm prioritizes prompt case filing to safeguard your rights, advising you on the necessary steps to ensure compliance with Texas's legal deadlines. Contacting us immediately post-accident allows us to build a stronger case on your behalf.

Our attorney can assist you in recovering financial support to help with medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. There are no upfront fees, and if we don't win, you don't pay. By working with our legal team, you can focus on your emotional and physical recovery while we work to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Truck Accident?

Liability in a truck accident can fall on multiple parties depending on the circumstances of the crash. Here are the potential entities that can be held liable:

• Truck Driver: A truck driver may be held liable if their negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence, caused the accident. They are also responsible for following hours-of-service regulations to prevent fatigue-related crashes. If they violate traffic laws or operate the truck recklessly, they can be legally accountable.
• Trucking Company: A trucking company can be liable if it fails to properly train drivers, enforces unrealistic delivery schedules that lead to fatigue, or neglects vehicle maintenance. If they hire unqualified drivers or encourage violations of safety regulations, they may share responsibility for an accident. Companies must ensure compliance with federal trucking laws.
• Truck Owner: If a truck is owned by someone other than the driver or company, the owner must ensure it is properly maintained and safe to operate. If poor maintenance, such as faulty brakes or worn tires, leads to an accident, the owner could be held liable. Their responsibility includes routine inspections and timely repairs.
• Cargo Loading Company: Companies responsible for loading cargo must ensure it is properly secured and balanced to prevent shifting or falling. If overloading or improper loading causes a crash, such as a truck tipping over, the loading company may be held accountable. This is especially important for hazardous materials and oversized loads.
• Truck or Parts Manufacturer: If a defective truck component, such as faulty brakes, tires, or steering, contributes to an accident, the manufacturer may be liable. Product liability laws hold manufacturers responsible for design flaws, production defects, or failure to warn about potential risks. Recalls and safety compliance are crucial to preventing these issues.
• Maintenance Provider: Third-party maintenance companies can be liable if they perform substandard repairs or fail to properly service a truck. If a truck experiences mechanical failure due to neglected maintenance, such as brake failure, the repair provider may be held responsible. Regular inspections and proper documentation are essential to prevent liability.
• Other Drivers or Third Parties: If another driver’s reckless or negligent actions, such as cutting off a truck or making sudden stops, contribute to an accident, they may be partially or fully liable. Poor road conditions, improper signage, or construction zone hazards could also make government entities or contractors responsible. Liability depends on how their actions directly impacted the crash.

Fighting for Our San Antonio Trucking Accident Clients

Truck drivers and the companies they work for have insurance providers that may attempt to minimize your claim to save money. In some cases, they may even push the blame onto you or deny your claim altogether. It is essential to have a dedicated legal advocate who understands the intricacies of insurance negotiations. Our approach involves not only a robust legal strategy but also employing negotiation techniques that underscore the validity and urgency of your injury claims, ensuring you are not shortchanged by insurers trying to protect their bottom line.

Our team understands these tactics commonly used by trucking companies and their insurers and is ready to fight on your behalf. You don’t have to go up against big insurance companies alone. Enlist the help of our seasoned attorney at the Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz.

Our firm is dedicated to helping our clients pursue the compensation they deserve. We believe that our clients should benefit the most from a claim. If your claim is not won, there are no fees. Contact Ruben Ortiz today for your Truck Accident case.

FREE CONSULTATION - NO UPFRONT FEES - ONLY PAY IF AND WHEN YOU WIN - 25% CONTINGENCY FEE WHEN A CASE IS SETTLED WITHOUT A LAWSUIT BEING FILED FOR ALL PERSONAL INJURY CASES