League City Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer

Commercial vehicles, from delivery trucks to company-owned vans, are standard on League City’s busy streets. While these vehicles are essential for businesses to operate, they also present significant risks on the road. If you’ve been involved in a collision with a commercial vehicle, it’s crucial to consult a League City commercial vehicle accident lawyer to protect your legal rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, we have years of experience representing clients injured in commercial vehicle accidents. Our team understands the unique challenges these cases present, from dealing with complex insurance policies to identifying all liable parties.

Why Choose DeHoyos Accident Attorneys for Your Commercial Vehicle Accident Case?

At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, we are committed to providing personalized attention and aggressive representation for every client. Here’s why we stand out as a trusted commercial vehicle law firm in League City:

Proven Expertise in Commercial Vehicle Accident Cases

Our firm has successfully represented clients in numerous commercial vehicle accident cases. We understand the complexities of these accidents and the regulations that apply to commercial drivers and their employers.

Comprehensive Legal Representation

We handle every aspect of your case—from investigating the accident scene, gathering evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies to taking your case to court if necessary. Our goal is to ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries.

Personalized Attention

We understand each case is unique, and we take the time to listen to your story and understand your needs. This individualized approach allows us to develop a legal strategy tailored to your circumstances.

Comparative Damages in League City Commercial Vehicle Accidents vs. Particular Vehicle Accidents

Accidents involving commercial vehicles often result in more severe injuries and property damage than those involving smaller passenger vehicles. 

This is due to commercial vehicles’ sheer size and weight, which can cause significant force upon impact. 

As a result, the potential for damages in commercial vehicle accidents is generally higher.   

The Dangers of League City’s Busy Roads

League City’s roads are known for their high volume of traffic and frequent accidents. Major highways like I-45, I-10, and US-59 run through the city, and accidents involving commercial vehicles are common.

League City’s bustling freeways, congested city streets, and extensive construction zones create a dangerous environment for all motorists, especially those sharing the road with large commercial vehicles. 

According to the Texas Department of Transportation, in 2022 alone, there were over 36,000 commercial vehicle crashes in Texas, resulting in over 5,000 injuries.

The risks are even more significant due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles, which can cause devastating injuries and damage in a collision. If you’ve been involved in a crash with a commercial vehicle, it’s essential to act quickly to protect your rights.

Common Causes of League City Commercial Vehicle Accidents

Commercial vehicle accidents can occur for various reasons, many of which are preventable. Some of the most common causes include:

Driver Fatigue

Commercial drivers are often required to work long hours, and fatigue is a leading cause of accidents. Federal regulations limit the number of hours drivers can be on the road. Still, not all drivers or companies comply with these rules.

Distracted Driving

Like any other driver, commercial vehicle operators can be distracted by their phones, GPS devices, or other in-cab distractions, which can lead to accidents.

Speeding

Pressure to meet delivery deadlines or complete routes can lead to speeding, making it difficult for drivers to stop in time to avoid an accident.

Vehicle Maintenance Issues

Commercial vehicles are subject to strict maintenance requirements, but not all companies or drivers adhere to these standards. Poorly maintained vehicles, such as faulty brakes or worn tires, can cause serious accidents.

Improper Loading Practices

If cargo is not correctly loaded or secured, it can shift during transit, causing the vehicle to become unbalanced and increasing the risk of a rollover or other types of accidents.

Liability in Commercial Vehicle Accidents

Determining liability in a commercial vehicle accident can be complex. Several parties may be responsible for your injuries, including:

The Driver: 

If the driver was negligent, such as speeding or driving while fatigued, they may be liable.

The Company: 

Employers may be liable if they fail to train drivers or maintain their vehicles properly.

Third Parties: 

Third parties, such as maintenance contractors or cargo loaders, may sometimes share liability if their negligence contributed to the accident.

An experienced commercial vehicle accident attorney will thoroughly investigate your case to identify all liable parties and pursue compensation from all available sources.

Protecting Yourself After a League City Commercial Vehicle Accident

If you’ve been involved in a collision with a commercial vehicle, it’s crucial to take the following steps to protect your rights:

Seek medical attention immediately: 

Even if you don’t feel any pain initially, it’s essential to get checked by a doctor to rule out any internal injuries.

Gather evidence at the scene: 

Take photos of the damage to your vehicle, the scene of the accident, and any injuries you sustained. Also, information should be exchanged with the truck driver and any witnesses.

Contact a League City commercial vehicle accident lawyer: 

Navigating the aftermath of a commercial vehicle accident is complicated. A knowledgeable commercial vehicle lawyer can help you understand your legal options, investigate the cause of the accident, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Internal Link: League City Personal Injury FAQs

Government Regulations and Safety Standards

Commercial vehicles are subject to complex federal and state regulations designed to ensure safety and prevent accidents. Compliance with these regulations is crucial for protecting the public and minimizing the risk of harm.

Federal Regulations:

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): 

The FMCSA is the primary federal agency responsible for regulating commercial motor carriers. It sets safety standards for commercial vehicles, drivers, and motor carriers.

Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations: 

These regulations limit the time commercial truck drivers can spend behind the wheel to prevent fatigue-related accidents.

Vehicle Maintenance Standards: 

Commercial vehicles must be maintained in a safe and operable condition. The FMCSA sets standards for vehicle inspections and maintenance.

State Regulations:

In addition to federal regulations, states may have their laws and regulations governing commercial vehicles. These regulations can vary from state to state and may include additional requirements or restrictions.

Importance of Compliance:

Adherence to federal and state regulations is essential for ensuring the safety of commercial vehicles and protecting the public. Compliance with safety standards helps to prevent accidents, reduce injuries, and minimize the human and financial costs associated with commercial vehicle crashes.

Recent Changes and Proposed Legislation:

The landscape of commercial vehicle safety is constantly evolving, with new regulations and technologies being introduced to improve safety. Some recent changes and proposed legislation include:

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): 

The FMCSA has mandated using ELDs to track drivers’ service hours and prevent fatigue-related accidents.

Autonomous Vehicles: 

The development of autonomous commercial vehicles is ongoing and could significantly impact road safety.

Safety Technology: 

Advancements in safety technology, such as collision avoidance systems and lane departure warnings, are being implemented in commercial vehicles to reduce the risk of accidents.

The Human Cost of Commercial Vehicle Accidents

Beyond the financial implications, commercial vehicle accidents can have a devastating impact on individuals and their families. The human cost of these accidents includes:

Physical Injuries: 

Victims of commercial vehicle accidents often suffer severe physical injuries, including broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and even death.

Emotional Trauma: 

Accidents can cause significant emotional trauma for victims and their loved ones. This may include anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health conditions.

Loss of Income: 

Injuries from commercial vehicle accidents can lead to lost wages, reduced earning potential, and job loss.

Disability: 

In severe cases, victims may experience permanent disabilities that significantly impact their quality of life.

Medical Expenses: 

The cost of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care can be substantial, placing a financial burden on victims and their families.

The human cost of commercial vehicle accidents is immeasurable. It is essential to hold those responsible accountable and seek compensation for the losses suffered by victims and their families.

League City Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer FAQs

Types of Compensation Available in Commercial Vehicle Accident Claims

Victims of commercial vehicle accidents may be entitled to various kinds of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for current and future medical bills related to the accident.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to injuries.
• Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical and emotional pain caused by the accident.
• Loss of Future Earnings: If the victim is incapacitated and unable to work in the future.

Our team will work with medical professionals and financial experts to accurately calculate the value of your claim and ensure that you receive fair compensation.

Who is responsible for covering my medical expenses after a commercial vehicle accident?

The party responsible for covering your medical expenses will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. In many cases, the insurance company of the commercial vehicle involved in the accident will be responsible. However, your health insurance may also be involved.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a commercial vehicle accident in Texas?

The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Texas is generally two years from the accident date. However, there may be exceptions to this rule, so it’s essential to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.

What if I was partially at fault for the commercial vehicle accident?

Texas is a comparative negligence state, which means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be able to recover compensation. However, your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault.  

The Importance of an Experienced League City Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer

Commercial vehicle accident cases can be more complex than typical car accident claims. Federal regulations, the involvement of large companies, and multiple layers of insurance policies make it difficult for victims to navigate the legal process independently.

At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, we have a proven track record of successfully handling commercial vehicle accident cases. Our team is experienced in investigating these accidents, gathering the necessary evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies to secure the best possible outcome for our clients.

Internal Link: View some of our client testimonials here

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies after a commercial vehicle accident can be incredibly challenging. These companies often have vast resources and will do everything possible to minimize payouts. 

They may try to argue that your injuries are not as severe as claimed or that you were partially at fault for the accident.

A CMV lawyer from DeHoyos Accident Attorneys will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. We are skilled in dealing with insurance adjusters and won’t back down until you get a fair settlement.

Contact DeHoyos Accident Attorneys Today for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been injured in a League City commercial vehicle accident, don’t hesitate to contact DeHoyos Accident Attorneys for a free consultation. Our experienced team understands your challenges and will fight to help you get the compensation you deserve.

We are here to guide you through every step of the process, from the initial investigation to negotiations with insurance companies and, if necessary, taking your case to trial.