Everything You Need to Know About Your Truck Accident Lawsuit

When Van Horn, Texas drivers get behind the wheel, they assume the best: that they will have an uneventful trip. However, West Texas accident attorneys know that these motorists can get more than they bargained for. After a collision, people often feel overwhelmed and have trouble determining their next steps. If you were in a crash, our lawyers can help. Here, we explain everything you need to know about your truck accident lawsuit.

Trucking accidents are more common than you might think, particularly in West Texas. Driving in the Permian Basin, America’s oil hub, has become increasingly dangerous as more commercial motor vehicles travel across smaller highways and roads in towns like Van Horn, Texas. These semi-trucks haul hazardous materials, including oil, heavy equipment, fracking sand, and other industrial goods. Because oil and shipping companies have strict schedules, truckers have to maintain rigorous routes. These conditions drive up accidents.

Even though only 2% of Texans live in this area, 11% of all 2017 traffic deaths in the state occurred here. This figure translates to 405 fatalities out of 3,721. Gene Powell, a public information officer with the Texas Department of Transportation, attributes this surge of wrecks to the growing number of large trucks on the road. Carabin Shaw attorneys want you to know that you are not alone if you or loved ones were in a truck accident in Van Horn.

In the past, truck drivers pushed themselves to the limit to keep up with company requests and make a better living. As a result, accidents involving truck driver fatigue were common. In response to this uptick in trucking crashes in the past, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) created the Interstate Truck Driver’s Hours-of-Service regulations. These rules limit both when and how long truckers can drive, so they stay awake and alert while on the road.

These regulations state that:

• Commercial motor vehicle operators have a 14-hour window in which to drive 11 hours
• Truckers must take a 10-hour break after that 14-hour window
• Drivers cannot go more than 8 hours without taking a 30-minute break

Semi-truck drivers must log their hours. This practice ensures that they follow the law. Our lawyers understand the nuances of these regulations and can help build your case if you suspect a truck driver’s fatigue contributed to your accident. Reach out to west Texas accident attorneys if you have any questions about how fatigue could shape your claim.

The positive changes that accompany increased regulation for truck drivers are not foolproof. There are other accident causes that Van Horn injury attorneys will keep in mind when evaluating your case. These causes include:

• Aggressive driving, such as speeding
• Distracted driving
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Fatigue
• Improper training
• Unsignaled lane changes
• Poor maintenance
• Poorly loaded, imbalance, or overweight freight

The circumstances surrounding the accident determine who is at fault. In commercial vehicle collisions, the most common at-fault parties are truck drivers, trucking companies, and parts manufacturers. Our attorneys have experience with each type of lawsuit, and we will use what we know to secure the payment you deserve after a truck accident in Van Horn.

If you were in an accident in Van Horn, Texas, you deserve to have your voice heard. Call Carabin Shaw today for a free, no-obligation consultation with a lawyer from our team. We can help you uncover everything you need to know about your truck accident lawsuit. During this meeting, we will listen to you, look over your case materials, and answer your questions. At the outset, we want to partner with you on the path to justice.

To speak with a Carabin Shaw attorney, dial 915-779-2301 or call us toll-free at 1-800-862-1260.