Austin Truck Accident Lawyer – Expert Legal Guidance for Claim Success
Meet Andrew Traub, an experienced Austin truck accident lawyer based in Texas. Andrew has witnessed the devastating effects of truck accidents on his clients. This article will guide you through what you need to know if you’re involved in such an accident.
500,000 Truck Accidents each year in the US
Truck accidents are alarmingly common in the U.S. Each year, about 500,000 trucking accidents occur, and around 5,000 of these are fatal. If a truck accident involves you, it’s crucial to have knowledgeable lawyers by your side.
The Facts:
- In truck accidents, most fatalities and injuries affect the occupants of other vehicles. Large trucks are more likely to be involved in fatal multi-vehicle crashes than passenger cars.
What Are Common Truck Accident Injuries?
Truck accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which can be severe and life-altering. Here are some of the most common injuries people may experience:
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injuries: These can cause paralysis or long-term cognitive issues.
- Head, Neck, and Back Injuries: Ranging from concussions to chronic back pain.
- Soft Tissue and Surface Injuries: Includes bruises, cuts, and possible disfigurement.
- Bone Fractures and Joint Injuries: Often require extensive treatment and recovery.
- Fatal Outcomes: Some accidents tragically lead to loss of life, resulting in wrongful death claims.
What Should I Do After a Truck Accident?
1. Assess Injuries and Seek Help
The first thing to do after a truck accident is to check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call emergency services immediately. Even if injuries aren’t obvious, a medical check-up is essential, as some injuries may not become apparent until later.
2. Contact Authorities
As soon as it’s safe to do so, call the police. Officers will come to the scene to help manage the situation. They’ll gather information, take statements, and document the accident. Their report will be crucial for any insurance or legal claims later on.
3. Document the Scene
While waiting for the police, take the time to document the accident yourself. Capture photos of the vehicles, any visible injuries, and factors that might have contributed to the collision. Gather contact details from witnesses, which can be invaluable later.
4. Exchange Information
Make sure you exchange necessary information with the other driver involved. This includes names, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle registration numbers.
5. Preserve Evidence
Keep all records and documents related to the accident. This includes medical records, repair estimates, and any communication with insurance companies. All these will support your case if you need to make a claim.
6. Consult a Legal Professional
Finally, contact a personal injury lawyer who specializes in truck accidents. They can offer invaluable advice and help ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
By following these steps, you can protect your health and legal rights after a truck accident.
When to File a Truck Accident Claim
Consider filing a claim if you’ve suffered injuries or significant losses. A personal injury attorney can offer advice on whether you have a valid claim.
Be Aware of the Statute of Limitations
You have a limited time to file a lawsuit after a truck accident. This time frame varies by state. In Texas, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to initiate legal action.
Why you need an Experienced Austin Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accident cases can be complex and costly. An experienced Austin truck accident lawyer like Andrew Traub can help ensure you receive fair compensation. He understands how to negotiate with trucking companies and insurance firms to protect your rights.
Common Causes of an 18-wheeler accidents in Texas, particularly around Austin:
- Failure to properly accommodate blind spots
- Brake failure
- Debris or articles on the road
- Exhaustion or fatigue on the part of the driver
- Excessive speed and failure to follow the rules of the road
- Tire failure or separation
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Unsecured cargo or freight shifting in the payload section
- Unsafe driving practices
There are many reasons why 18-wheeler accidents are so catastrophic. The pressure for speed and efficiency by the trucking companies and the deregulation of the industry are both major factors – 18-wheeler drivers are typically required to work long hours with little or no sleep. Large trucks consistently break the speed limit to deliver goods quickly – adding fuel to an already dangerous fire. The sheer size of an 18-wheeler makes for a massive impact and hinders the ability of the truck to make sudden stops. The results are too often fatal.
Texas Big Rig Trucking Accidents Lawyer
Big rig accidents are increasing annually due to unsafe driving, oversized loads, and other hazardous practices, putting both the public and truck drivers at risk. Driven by trucking companies’ demands for rapid deliveries and industry deregulation, these accidents account for one in every eight traffic fatalities. The urgency to deliver goods quickly often proves fatal, with federal data indicating that 20% of these crashes are caused by speeding.
Big rig accidents are on the rise, frequently resulting from speeding and industry pressures. These accidents pose a significant risk to nearby vehicles. An experienced lawyer can assist victims in navigating these complex cases.
Interstate Trucking Accidents
Interstate trucking accidents are becoming more common. The mix of high speeds and large trucks can be deadly. If you’re involved in such an accident, it’s crucial to have a skilled lawyer to handle your case.
Wheel Blowout Accidents
Tire blowouts can cause trucks to lose control and lead to severe accidents. If you’re affected by such an incident, you might be eligible for compensation.r loss.
Jack Knife Accidents
Jackknife accidents occur when a truck skids and the trailer swings out. These accidents are dangerous and often lead to multi-vehicle pile-ups.
Truck Under-Ride Accidents
Under-ride accidents happen when a car slides under the back of a truck. These accidents usually result in serious injuries or fatalities.
Driving negligence is dangerous – but truck driving inattention can be especially deadly. There’s no excuse for the unnecessary death of thousands of innocent people and you shouldn’t be held financially accountable for someone else’s dangerous behavior.
Impaired Truck Driver Accidents
Accidents caused by impaired truck drivers are tragically common. Alcohol and drugs can severely impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
Every year, thousands die or get hurt in big rig crashes, often because of impaired driving. In 1999, about 30% of traffic deaths involved a driver who was significantly over the legal alcohol limit. Studies also show that many truck drivers use stimulants to cope with the pressure of fast deliveries. Driving under the influence is extremely risky, especially for truck drivers (at least some alcohol was present in 38% of all fatal crashes). If you’re injured by a truck driver who was impaired, getting legal help is key to getting the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Personal Injury Law in Truck Accidents in Austin
Understanding personal injury law is crucial if you’re involved in a truck accident. It helps you know your rights and potential compensation. An experienced lawyer can guide you through the process and help prove negligence if necessary.
Key Reasons to Understand Personal Injury Law:
- Compensation for Damages: If you’re injured, you can get money for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Knowing personal injury law helps you navigate these claims effectively.
- Establishing Negligence: To win a personal injury case, you need to prove that the truck driver or others involved were negligent. This means they didn’t take reasonable care, leading to harm. A specialized attorney can collect the right evidence and build a strong case for you.
- Modified Comparative Fault Rule in Texas: Texas has a rule that might reduce your compensation if you’re partly at fault for the accident. If your fault is under 50%, you can still get compensated, but it’ll be less based on your share of the blame.
Understanding personal injury law, especially for truck accidents in Austin, helps victims defend their rights effectively. This knowledge prepares you to face legal challenges and fight for the compensation you deserve.
How to Effectively Gather Evidence for a Truck Accident Case in Austin
If you’re involved in a truck accident in Austin, it’s crucial to gather strong evidence to build your case. Here’s a simple guide:
- Obtain the Accident Report: Right after the accident, file a report with the police. This document is key as it provides an official overview of the accident, including the conditions, involved parties, and initial observations.
- Collect Eyewitness Accounts: Witnesses are valuable sources of information. Try to get their contact details at the scene and follow up for detailed accounts of what they saw.
- Take Photos and Videos: At the scene, take lots of photos and videos from different angles. Capture the overall scene, damages to all vehicles, skid marks, road signs, and any relevant environmental conditions.
- Secure Electronic Data: Modern trucks often have an electronic data recorder (EDR), or “black box,” which records data on truck operations before and during a crash. You’ll need legal help to access this data.
- Consult Experts: Sometimes, you might need a specialist to interpret evidence or provide a clearer picture of the accident. This could include accident reconstruction experts or medical professionals.
Hiring a Skilled Attorney
Navigating a truck accident case requires expert legal knowledge. Hiring an experienced attorney who knows truck accident law in Austin is crucial. They will help gather and analyze evidence, negotiate with involved parties, and build a strong case.
Determining if You’re Owed Compensation and Seeking Legal Representation
- Evaluate Your Case: Assess the incident carefully. Understand the extent of your injuries and how they affect your life. Keep detailed records of medical visits, lost income, and emotional distress.
- Calculate Your Damages: Before contacting a lawyer, estimate your potential damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Use online calculators for a rough idea, but remember they’re just a guide.
- Seek Professional Help: Once you’ve assessed your situation and estimated damages, find experienced legal help. A personal injury lawyer will provide tailored advice and advocate for you to ensure fair compensation.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies After a Truck Accident
Negotiating with insurance companies is crucial to ensure you receive appropriate compensation. Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts. Here’s how a skilled attorney can help:
- Expert Representation: They know insurance policies and legalities well, which can tip negotiations in your favor.
- Communication Handling: Your lawyer will manage communications, protecting you from tactics that could weaken your position.
- Maximizing Compensation: Your attorney will aim for a settlement that covers all your costs and losses. Leveling the Playing Field
Ready to get help? Contact a qualified legal expert today to protect your rights. If you need an Austin truck accident lawyer, call the Traub Law Office at (512) 246-9191 to speak to an attorney.
Austin Truck Accident Lawyer Specializes in Handling Various Types of Trucking Incidents
Including:
- UPS trucking accidents
- FedEx trucking accidents
- Amazon trucking accidents
- Bus accidents
- Tow Truck Accidents
- Garbage Truck Accidents
- 18-Wheeler Truck Accidents
