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Large truck crashes cause serious and deadly injuries in Houston. Whether you were injured yourself in a collision and need help with a personal injury lawsuit, or a loved one sustained fatal injuries in an accident, one of our Houston truck accident attorneys can evaluate your case for you today.

If you are considering pursuing a truck accident lawsuit, our team can guide you through the legal process, helping you understand liability, damages, and the steps involved in seeking compensation.

An advocate at The Stano Law Firm can provide you with more information and can begin working with you on your claim. We handle all types of Houston trucking accident cases and offer a free consultation to help you understand your legal options.

Getting the Facts About Truck Accidents in Houston

Trucking collisions do not occur nearly as frequently as crashes involving only smaller passenger vehicles, but truck accidents tend to be deadlier. Compared to typical car accidents, truck accidents often result in more severe injuries and present greater legal complexity due to the size and weight of 18-wheelers. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI), collisions with passenger cars involving semi-trucks or 18-wheelers often result in fatal injuries due to the weight, size, and ground clearance of large trucks. Indeed, as the IIHS and HLDI explain, “the main problem is the vulnerability of people traveling in smaller vehicles” since semi-trucks “often weigh 20-30 times as much as passenger cars and are taller with greater ground clearance, which can result in smaller vehicles underriding trucks in crashes.” A serious truck accident can have devastating consequences, making it crucial to seek experienced legal representation. What else do you need to know about truck accidents in Houston? Consider some of the following facts and figures from the IIHS and HLDI, as well as from the National Safety Council (NSC):

  • Large truck injury and fatality rates have risen in recent years, with more occupants of smaller passenger vehicle suffering life-threatening and deadly injuries in collisions;
  • Total of 4,014 people were killed in large truck accidents in 2020, and nearly 70 percent of those people were occupants of cars and other types of passenger vehicles, while only about 15 percent were large truck occupants;
  • Pedestrians and bicyclists are also at risk of severe and deadly injuries in collisions with semi-trucks, and in 2020, pedestrians, motorcyclists, and bicyclists accounted for about 16 percent of all fatalities;
  • Nearly 55 percent of deadly large truck crashes happen in rural areas, while about 45 percent occur in urban areas;
  • Nearly three-quarters of large truck collisions occur on non-interstate roads (about 73 percent), while more than one-quarter of these crashes happen on interstates (about 27 percent);
  • Nearly 64 percent of all fatal semi-truck accidents happen during daytime hours, while about 37 percent occur after dark;
  • Almost half of all deadly large truck collisions occur between the hours of 6 a.m. and 3 p.m., which is notable since most traffic collisions that do not involve trucks occur at dusk or after fark;
  • The majority of all large truck wrecks happen outside work zones; and
  • Most semi-truck crashes happen during the week (as opposed to the weekend), which is notable since a higher rate of traffic collisions involving only passenger vehicles occur on Saturdays and Sundays.

Types of Truck Accidents in Houston

Truck accidents in Houston can take many forms, each presenting unique dangers and legal challenges. Some of the most common types of truck accidents include rear-end collisions, jackknife accidents, rollovers, underride accidents, T-bone collisions, blind spot crashes, and cargo spills.

  • Rear-end collisions often occur when a Houston truck is unable to stop in time, leading to severe injuries for those in smaller vehicles.
  • Jackknife accidents, where the trailer swings out to form a sharp angle with the cab, can block multiple lanes and cause multi-vehicle pileups.
  • Rollover accidents are particularly hazardous due to the high center of gravity of commercial trucks, which can tip over during sharp turns or sudden maneuvers.
  • Underride accidents, where a passenger vehicle slides beneath a truck’s trailer, frequently result in catastrophic or fatal injuries.
  • T-bone collisions and blind spot accidents are also common, especially at intersections or when a truck changes lanes without seeing another vehicle.
  • Cargo spills, caused by improperly secured loads, can create dangerous road hazards for all motorists.

If you or a loved one has suffered severe injuries in any type of truck accident, consulting a Houston truck accident lawyer is essential to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Houston Truck Accidents

Truck accidents have many different causes, which often involve another party’s negligence. Examples of common causes of Houston trucking collisions include:

  • Errors by commercial truck drivers, such as fatigued or distracted driving, failure to check blind spots, or non-compliance with federal and state trucking laws and regulations;
  • Improperly loaded or overloaded trailer;
  • Hazardous conditions; 
  • Truck defect, which may be due to faulty parts or design flaws for which truck manufacturers can be held responsible;
  • Truck jackknifing accident; or
  • Tire blowout.

There are various causes of truck collisions, and sometimes a crash may have more than one cause.

Understanding Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Driver fatigue remains one of the top causes of truck accidents across Texas and the nation. When truck drivers push beyond safe limits, their reaction times slow, judgment becomes impaired, and the risk of a serious truck accident increases dramatically. Federal trucking regulations set strict hours-of-service requirements to prevent driver fatigue, but violations still occur far too often.

Commercial truck drivers must follow rules about how many hours they can drive without taking mandatory rest breaks. When trucking companies pressure drivers to meet tight deadlines or when drivers falsify their logs, everyone on the road faces increased danger. Our law firm has handled numerous cases where driver fatigue played a direct role in causing devastating injuries.

If you suspect driver fatigue contributed to your truck accident, an experienced truck accident attorney can review driver logs, electronic logging device data, and other records to build your case. These violations often provide strong evidence of negligence in truck accident claims.

Who is Liable for a Houston Truck Accident?

Many different parties can be liable for truck crashes in Houston, and often it may be possible to file a lawsuit against more than one party. In many truck accident cases, multiple parties may share liability, making these claims especially complex. Liability will depend upon causation, and who is at fault or otherwise responsible for the crash. Examples of parties who could be liable include, but are not limited to:

  • Truck driver;
  • Truck driver’s employer;
  • Owner of the truck;
  • Commercial trucking company responsible for the operation and maintenance of the vehicle;
  • Company that loaded the trailer;
  • Designer or manufacturer of one of the truck’s parts;
  • Retailer who sold the truck or one of its parts;
  • Mechanic; or
  • Property owner of the premises where the collision occurred.

Truck accidents often result in complex personal injury cases that require thorough investigation to establish negligence and liability. Critical evidence, such as truck driver logs, can help prove fault by showing hours of service violations or other negligent behavior. Additionally, the insurance company plays a significant role in the claims process and negotiations, and experienced attorneys are essential for dealing with insurance company tactics to ensure fair compensation.

Identifying Potentially Liable Parties in Complex Truck Accident Cases

Determining all potentially liable parties in a truck accident case requires thorough investigation and legal knowledge. Unlike typical car crashes, commercial vehicle accidents often involve multiple defendants who share responsibility for the collision and resulting injuries.

A Houston truck accident attorney will examine every aspect of your case to identify all parties who contributed to the accident. This might include the trucker and trucking company, cargo loading companies, maintenance providers, leasing companies, and manufacturers of defective parts. Each party may carry different insurance policies that can provide compensation for your injuries.

Identifying all liable parties is important because it affects the total compensation available to accident victims. Our truck wreck lawyers work with accident reconstruction experts and industry specialists to build comprehensive cases that hold all responsible parties accountable.

The Role of Professional Truck Drivers in Houston Accidents

Professional truck drivers are entrusted with the responsibility of operating large commercial vehicles safely on Houston’s busy roads. However, factors such as driver fatigue, distracted driving, and speeding remain the leading causes of truck accidents in the area. Federal trucking regulations, including hours-of-service rules, are designed to prevent driver fatigue by limiting the number of hours a truck driver can be on the road without rest. Despite these safeguards, violations still occur, putting everyone at risk. Distracted driving—whether from mobile devices, eating, or other in-cab distractions—can lead to devastating truck crashes. The trucking industry requires drivers to undergo rigorous training and maintain proper licensing, but lapses in training or oversight can contribute to accidents. When a professional truck driver’s negligence results in a collision, both the driver and the trucking company may be held accountable. An experienced accident attorney can help accident victims navigate the complexities of commercial vehicle accident claims and fight for fair compensation for their injuries and losses.

How Distracted Driving by Commercial Drivers Causes Accidents

Distracted driving poses a serious threat when commercial vehicle operators take their attention off the road. Commercial truck drivers face many distractions during long hauls, from cell phones and GPS devices to eating and adjusting controls. Even a few seconds of inattention can lead to a fatal truck accident when operating an 80,000-pound vehicle.

Trucking companies have a responsibility to enforce policies against distracted driving and to train their drivers on safe practices. When companies fail in this duty, they can be held liable along with the driver. Our personal injury lawyer team has successfully represented clients injured by distracted truckers who were texting, using social media, or engaging in other dangerous behaviors behind the wheel.

If you were hit by a distracted commercial driver, documentation from the accident scene, witness statements, and cell phone records can prove the driver’s negligence. An accident attorney will gather this evidence to support your truck accident claim.

The Impact of Trucking Maintenance Crews on Accident Liability

The safety of commercial trucks on Houston’s roads depends heavily on the diligence of trucking maintenance crews. Regular inspections and timely repairs are essential to prevent mechanical failures that can lead to serious truck accidents. When maintenance crews neglect routine checks or fail to address known issues—such as worn brakes, faulty tires, or malfunctioning lights—the risk of a truck accident increases significantly. Trucking companies are ultimately responsible for ensuring their fleets are properly maintained, and they can be held liable if poor maintenance contributes to a crash. In some cases, the manufacturer of a defective part may also share responsibility. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, a Houston truck accident lawyer can investigate whether maintenance failures played a role and help you pursue fair compensation from all potentially liable parties, including trucking companies and maintenance providers.

Common Mechanical Failures That Lead to Truck Accidents

Mechanical failures in commercial trucks can turn these massive vehicles into uncontrollable hazards on the road. Brake failures, tire blowouts, steering system malfunctions, and defective lighting all contribute to preventable truck accidents. When these failures occur, the results can be catastrophic for other drivers and passengers.

Trucking companies must follow strict federal maintenance schedules and keep detailed records of all inspections and repairs. When they cut corners to save money or keep trucks in service despite known problems, they put profit over safety. Our truck accident attorneys have handled cases involving maintenance failures that directly caused collisions and serious injuries.

Truck manufacturers can also be held responsible when design defects or manufacturing errors create dangerous conditions. If a defective part contributed to your truck accident, you may have a claim against the manufacturer in addition to other parties. An experienced truck accident attorney will investigate all possible sources of compensation.

Injuries in Houston Trucking Collisions

At The Stano Law Firm, we represent clients who have suffered a wide range of truck accident injuries resulting from large truck accidents. These collisions often lead to serious injuries that can have life-altering consequences. While injuries can vary depending upon the specific circumstances of the collision, the following are some of the most common types of injuries in truck accident cases:

Truck accident injuries frequently result in significant medical expenses and mounting medical bills, placing a heavy financial burden on victims and their families.

Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries from Truck Collisions

Spinal cord injuries represent some of the most life-changing consequences of truck accidents. When a commercial truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the force of impact can damage the spinal column, leading to partial or complete paralysis. These injuries often require immediate emergency surgery, months of hospitalization, and years of rehabilitation.

Victims of spinal cord injuries face enormous challenges, including lost mobility, chronic pain, and the need for ongoing medical care. Medical bills for spinal cord damage can reach millions of dollars over a lifetime. Beyond the physical costs, victims often lose their ability to work, enjoy activities they once loved, and maintain independence.

Our Houston truck accident lawyer team understands the full scope of spinal cord injury cases. We work with medical experts to document the extent of your injuries and calculate the true cost of your care, both now and in the future. This includes lost wages, future earning capacity, home modifications, and ongoing medical treatment.

Traumatic Brain Injuries and Their Long-Term Effects

Traumatic brain injuries from truck accidents can affect every aspect of a victim’s life. Even mild concussions can cause lasting problems with memory, concentration, and emotional regulation. Severe TBIs may result in permanent cognitive impairment, personality changes, and the need for lifelong care.

Many truck accident victims don’t realize they’ve suffered a brain injury immediately after the collision. Symptoms may develop gradually over days or weeks. That’s why getting medical attention after any truck accident is so important, even if you feel fine initially. Documentation from these early medical visits becomes important evidence in your truck accident case.

Accident victims with TBIs often face challenges that insurance companies don’t want to acknowledge. Insurers may try to minimize the severity of your injury or argue that your symptoms existed before the accident. An experienced truck accident lawyer will fight these tactics and ensure your brain injury receives the serious legal attention it deserves.

The Physical and Financial Burden of Broken Bones

Broken bones are common in truck accidents due to the extreme forces involved in these collisions. Fractures of the legs, arms, ribs, pelvis, and spine can require multiple surgeries, extensive physical therapy, and long recovery periods. Some fractures never heal properly, leaving victims with permanent limitations and chronic pain.

The financial impact of bone fractures extends beyond immediate medical expenses. Many victims need months away from work, losing income when they need it most. Complex fractures may require hardware implants, follow-up procedures to remove that hardware, and ongoing pain management. These costs add up quickly, often exceeding what victims can afford.

Insurance company adjusters often undervalue fracture claims, treating them as minor injuries that will heal completely. Our personal injury attorney team knows better. We document every aspect of your bone injuries, from emergency room treatment through final rehabilitation, to demand full compensation for your losses.

Investigation and Evidence in Houston Truck Accident Cases

A thorough investigation is important to the success of any Houston truck accident case. After a truck accident, gathering evidence quickly can make a significant difference in proving liability and securing fair compensation. Key evidence includes the police report, photographs of the accident scene, and statements from witnesses. An experienced accident attorney will also obtain and review the truck’s maintenance records, driver logs, and any available black box or GPS data to reconstruct the events leading up to the crash. In complex cases, expert witnesses may be called upon to analyze the accident scene or provide insight into trucking industry standards. The use of technology, such as electronic logging devices and onboard cameras, can offer additional clarity about the truck driver’s actions and the condition of the commercial vehicle. By building a strong case based on solid evidence, accident victims can improve their chances of achieving a favorable outcome in their truck accident claims.

Critical Evidence at the Truck Accident Scene

The truck accident scene contains valuable evidence that can prove liability and support your compensation claim. Physical evidence like skid marks, debris patterns, and vehicle damage tells the story of how the accident happened. This evidence can disappear quickly due to weather, traffic, or cleanup efforts, which is why immediate documentation is so important.

Photographs and videos from the accident scene provide powerful evidence that insurance companies cannot easily dispute. Our truck accident attorneys recommend that victims or witnesses capture images of vehicle positions, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. These images become important evidence when reconstructing the accident.

The police report serves as an official record of the accident, documenting the officer’s observations, witness statements, and preliminary determination of fault. While not conclusive proof of liability, the police report provides important information that shapes the investigation. An accident attorney knows how to use this report effectively while gathering additional evidence to strengthen your case.

How Black Box Data Proves Fault in Truck Accidents

Modern commercial trucks are equipped with electronic data recorders, often called black boxes, that record important information about the vehicle’s operation. This data includes speed, braking, acceleration, and hours of operation. When a commercial truck collides with another vehicle, this black box data often provides undeniable proof of what really happened.

Trucking companies and insurance company representatives know how valuable this data can be, which is why they sometimes try to delay or deny access to it. An experienced truck accident attorney will act quickly to preserve this evidence through legal demands and court orders if needed. Without prompt action, this data could be lost or overwritten.

Black box data has helped our Houston truck accident attorneys prove cases involving speeding, sudden braking, and hours-of-service violations. This objective evidence is harder for insurance companies to dispute than witness testimony alone. When combined with other evidence from the accident scene, black box data builds compelling proof of negligence.

The Importance of Witness Statements in Truck Accident Claims

Witness statements provide independent accounts of how a truck accident occurred. Unlike the parties involved in the collision, witnesses have no financial stake in the outcome and their testimony often carries significant weight. Other drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and nearby residents may have seen important details that help establish fault.

Our truck collision attorneys work quickly to identify and interview witnesses before their memories fade. We document their statements in written and video formats to preserve their accounts. Some witnesses may be reluctant to get involved, but their testimony can make the difference between a successful claim and a denied one.

Insurance company adjusters may try to contact witnesses first and obtain statements that favor their position. Having an accident attorney involved early protects your interests and ensures witnesses provide complete, accurate accounts. Our law firm has the experience to handle witness interviews professionally and preserve this important evidence.

How Much Time Do I Have to File a Trucking Collision Claim in Houston?

When you have been injured in a truck accident or have lost a loved one in a truck accident, it is critical to keep track of the timeline for filing your claim. To be clear, truck accident cases have a statute of limitations, which is a strict time window in which you can be eligible to file a lawsuit. Failing to file your Texas truck accident claim within this period can result in losing your right to seek compensation under Texas law. Once the clock on the statute of limitations runs out, the claim becomes time-barred under Texas law.

What is the statute of limitations for most truck accident lawsuits in Houston? In both personal injury and wrongful death cases arising out of truck crashes, there is a two-year statute of limitations under Texas law. However, it is important to know that the statute of limitations will usually start ticking at different points for personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits. For a personal injury case, the clock will start to tick on the date of the accident. For wrongful death lawsuits, the statute of limitations will start to tick on the date of death. Sometimes these dates are the same if a person sustains fatal injuries in a trucking crash and succumbs immediately to those injuries. Under other circumstances, however, a person might suffer life-threatening injuries that result in weeks, months, or even longer in the hospital, even though those injuries ultimately cause the person’s death.

What Happens If You Miss the Statute of Limitations?

Missing the statute of limitations deadline for your Texas truck accident case has serious consequences. Once the deadline passes, Texas courts will almost certainly dismiss your case, regardless of how strong your evidence is or how badly you were injured. You lose your legal right to seek compensation from the responsible parties.

Some exceptions to the standard two-year deadline exist in limited circumstances. If the injured person was a minor at the time of the accident, the statute of limitations may be paused until they reach adulthood. If the at-fault party left Texas after the accident, the time they were out of state might not count toward the deadline.

These exceptions are rare and technical. The safest approach is to consult with a Houston truck accident attorney as soon as possible after your accident. Our law firm offers a free consultation to evaluate your case and ensure you don’t miss any critical deadlines. Waiting too long to seek legal help is one of the most common mistakes accident victims make.

Wrongful Death Versus Personal Injury Claims in Houston Large Truck Crashes

Wrongful death lawsuits and personal injury lawsuits are closely related. A personal injury lawsuit is a claim filed by truck accident victims who have suffered injuries. However, when a truck accident results in a fatal accident, the deceased person cannot file a claim on their own behalf. In these kinds of cases, another party that may include a surviving spouse, surviving child, or surviving parent of the deceased may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit. In filing a wrongful death claim, that party will metaphorically step into the shoes of the deceased in order to seek compensation from the at-fault or otherwise responsible party.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim After a Fatal Truck Accident?

Texas law establishes a specific order of priority for who can file a wrongful death claim after a fatal truck accident. The surviving spouse has the first right to bring the claim. If there is no surviving spouse, or if the spouse does not file within three months, surviving children may file. If there are no spouse or children, the deceased’s parents may have the right to file.

The person who files the wrongful death claim represents the interests of all eligible family members. This means the spouse, children, and parents can all potentially recover damages through a single wrongful death case. The compensation can include funeral expenses, lost wages and benefits the deceased would have earned, loss of companionship, and mental anguish.

A wrongful death lawsuit differs from a survival claim, which seeks damages the deceased could have recovered if they had lived, such as medical bills and pain and suffering before death. An experienced truck accident attorney can explain these differences and help families understand what compensation they may be entitled to receive.

Damages Available in Fatal Truck Accident Cases

Families who lose loved ones in fatal truck accident cases face both emotional grief and financial hardship. Wrongful death claim damages aim to address both aspects, though no amount of money can truly compensate for the loss of a family member. Understanding what damages are available helps families seek full compensation.

Economic damages in fatal truck accident cases include medical expenses incurred before death, funeral and burial costs, and the loss of the deceased’s income and benefits. For young victims or high earners, the lost income over a lifetime can amount to millions of dollars. Our Houston personal injury lawyers work with economists to calculate these losses accurately.

Non-economic damages compensate for the intangible losses families suffer, including loss of companionship, loss of guidance and counsel, and mental anguish. Texas law allows spouses, children, and parents to recover these damages individually based on their unique relationship with the deceased. An experienced truck accident lawyer will present compelling evidence of these losses to secure maximum compensation.

Understanding Texas Truck Accident Case Complexities

A Texas truck accident case involves different legal requirements than a standard car accident claim. Federal regulations govern many aspects of the trucking industry, from driver qualifications to vehicle maintenance. Understanding how these regulations apply to your case requires specific legal knowledge.

Commercial vehicle accident cases often involve multiple insurance policies with different coverage limits. The truck driver may have personal insurance, the commercial trucking company carries commercial liability coverage, and cargo policies may also apply. Identifying all available insurance coverage is important for maximizing your recovery.

Our Houston personal injury lawyers have handled hundreds of Texas truck accident cases and understand the unique challenges they present. We know which federal regulations apply, how to obtain evidence from trucking companies, and how to deal with the specialized insurance companies that handle commercial vehicle claims. This experience makes a difference in the outcome of your case.

Tips to Avoid a Semi-Truck Crash in Houston

While motorists in passenger vehicles should never have to worry that they will be injured in a collision caused by a negligent truck driver or due to a safety issue caused by a trucking company or other party who worked on a truck, these collisions do happen and they are often deadly. Truck accidents not only endanger truck occupants but also pose significant risks to other drivers, including those in passenger vehicles and motorcycles, who share the road. What steps can car and light truck drivers take to avoid a collision? Consider some of the following tips from our Houston truck accident attorneys:

  • Never pass an 18-wheeler on the right if you can avoid it, recognizing that passing on the driver’s side on the left side is significantly safer because of the smaller blind spot on this side of the truck;
  • When you are passing a large truck, do it as quickly as possible
  • Know that if you cannot see a truck driver in their side mirror, then they cannot see your car or SUV approaching;
  • Leave a greater following distance behind a truck than the space you think is necessary behind a smaller passenger vehicle, recognizing that it takes a lot longer for a truck driver to come to a stop and recognizing the risk of an underriding collision or other serious accidents that can occur when a commercial truck collides with a smaller vehicle;
  • Be careful whenever you are behind a truck that is turning since 18-wheelers need a lot more room to turn, take very wide turns, and truckers do not have a significant amount of visibility; and
  • Avoid all dangerous driving behaviors yourself that could lead to a collision, including distracted driving, aggressive driving, and intoxicated driving.

Understanding Truck Blind Spots and No-Zones

Commercial trucks have much larger blind spots than passenger vehicles. These blind spots, often called “no-zones,” exist on all four sides of the truck. The largest blind spots are directly behind the trailer and along the right side. When you drive in these areas, the truck driver cannot see you, creating a dangerous situation.

Many truck accidents happen when passenger vehicles linger in these blind spots. The truck driver may change lanes or turn without seeing the car, leading to a side-swipe collision or worse. Other drivers should pass trucks quickly and avoid staying alongside them for extended periods.

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident that occurred while you were in a blind spot, that doesn’t mean you caused the accident. Truck drivers have a responsibility to check their blind spots carefully before maneuvering. An accident attorney can help determine whether the truck driver failed to take proper precautions before changing lanes or turning.

The Dangers of Drunk Driving and Truck Accidents

Drunk driving by truck drivers is illegal and extremely dangerous. Commercial drivers are held to a higher standard than regular motorists, with a blood alcohol content (BAC) limit of 0.04% compared to 0.08% for non-commercial drivers. Even this lower limit can impair a driver’s ability to operate a massive commercial vehicle safely.

When a truck driver operates under the influence, the consequences can be catastrophic. Drunk driving slows reaction times, impairs judgment, and reduces coordination at a time when controlling an 80,000-pound vehicle requires peak alertness. Trucking companies must conduct pre-employment drug and alcohol screening and perform random testing throughout employment.

If drunk driving caused your truck accident, you may be entitled to additional compensation beyond standard damages. Texas law allows punitive damages in cases involving intoxication, which are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. Our truck accident lawyer team will investigate whether alcohol or drugs played a role in your accident.

Choosing the Right Truck Accident Attorney in Houston

Selecting the right Houston truck accident lawyer is a critical step in ensuring your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve after a truck accident. Look for an attorney with extensive experience handling truck accident cases and a deep understanding of both federal and Texas trucking laws. A reputable truck accident lawyer should have a proven track record of success in negotiating with insurance companies and litigating against large trucking companies. Communication is key—your attorney should keep you informed throughout the process, answer your questions promptly, and explain your legal options in clear terms. By choosing an accident attorney who is knowledgeable about the trucking industry and committed to your case, you can feel confident that your interests are being represented and that you have the best chance of securing fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

What to Look for in a Houston Truck Accident Attorney

Choosing the right Houston truck accident attorney can make the difference between a successful claim and a disappointing settlement. Look for attorneys who focus their practice on truck accident cases rather than handling all types of personal injury work. This focus means they understand the specific regulations, industry practices, and legal strategies that apply to commercial vehicle accident cases.

Experience matters in truck accident litigation. Ask potential attorneys about their track record handling truck accident cases, including both settlements and trial verdicts. An attorney who has successfully taken truck accident cases to trial sends a message to insurance companies that they’re prepared to fight for full compensation.

Resources also play a role in handling complex truck accident cases. These cases often require accident reconstruction experts, medical specialists, economists, and other professionals. A well-established law firm has the financial resources to hire these experts and build the strongest possible case for their clients.

Questions to Ask During Your Free Consultation

When you meet with a Houston truck accident lawyer for a free consultation, come prepared with questions. Ask about their experience with truck accident cases specifically. How many have they handled? What results have they achieved? Do they have experience dealing with the particular trucking company involved in your accident?

Questions about the legal process help you understand what to expect. How long do truck accident cases typically take? What evidence will be needed? Will your case likely settle or go to trial? An experienced attorney can provide realistic answers based on their experience with similar cases.

Don’t hesitate to ask about fees and costs. Most personal injury attorney practices work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you recover compensation. Make sure you understand what percentage they take and what expenses you might be responsible for. Our law firm provides clear, written fee agreements so clients know exactly what to expect.

How Our Law Firm Handles Truck Accident Cases

At our law firm, we take a comprehensive approach to every truck accident case. Our process begins with a thorough investigation of the accident, including visiting the accident scene, obtaining the police report, interviewing witnesses, and securing all available evidence before it disappears.

We work with accident reconstruction experts who can analyze the physical evidence and create detailed reports showing how the accident occurred. These experts can testify about vehicle speeds, sight distances, braking capabilities, and other technical factors that prove liability. Their analysis often becomes the foundation of a strong truck accident claim.

Our Houston truck accident lawyer team also handles all communication with insurance companies. We know the tactics adjusters use to minimize payouts, and we don’t let them take advantage of our clients. We demand full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and all other damages our clients have suffered.

Contact a Truck Accident Attorney in Houston Today

If you were injured in a large truck crash, or if you lost a loved one in an 18-wheeler accident, it is important to get in touch with a trucking accident lawyer in Houston who can speak with you today about your case. These types of crashes can be devastating, especially since they often result in life-threatening and deadly injuries. Much too often, people lose loved ones in wrecks involving semi-trucks due to the size and weight of these commercial vehicles. While it may be difficult to think about moving forward with a lawsuit when you are dealing with debilitating injuries or grieving the loss of a loved one, it is critical to remember that you will only have a limited amount of time to file your lawsuit, and compensation can be essential for moving forward with your life. 

One of our experienced Houston truck accident lawyers can learn more about your case today and provide you with options for filing a claim. Contact The Stano Law Firm to learn more about how we can help you with your case.

Stano has The Team

Matthew Stano

Matthew Stano

Taylor Franks

Marissa Ceballos

Adelaida Stano

Adelaida Stano

Jason Brooks

Jason Brooks

Common Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents

What should I do immediately after a truck accident?

After a truck accident, your first priority should be getting medical attention, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured. Many serious injuries don’t show symptoms right away. Call 911 to report the accident and request police and medical assistance. If you’re able, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.

Get contact information from the truck driver, including their name, license number, and insurance information. Also collect contact information from witnesses. Don’t admit fault or make detailed statements to the truck driver or their insurance company. Instead, contact a Houston truck accident attorney who can protect your rights from the start.

Document everything related to your accident and injuries. Keep copies of medical bills, treatment records, and documentation of lost wages. This evidence will be important for your truck accident claim. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case will be.

How is a truck accident different from a regular car accident?

Truck accident cases differ from regular car accidents in several important ways. First, the severity of injuries tends to be much worse when a commercial truck collides with a passenger vehicle. The size and weight difference means occupants of smaller vehicles often suffer catastrophic or fatal injuries.

Second, liability in truck accidents is more complex. In a regular car accident, you typically deal with the at-fault driver and their insurance company. In a commercial vehicle accident, multiple parties may be liable, including the driver, the trucking company, the cargo loader, maintenance providers, and manufacturers.

Third, commercial vehicle accident cases are governed by federal regulations in addition to state laws. These regulations cover driver qualifications, hours of service, vehicle maintenance, cargo securement, and more. Violations of these regulations can provide strong evidence of negligence. An experienced truck accident lawyer understands these differences and how to use them to build a strong case.

How much is my truck accident case worth?

The value of your truck accident case depends on many factors, including the severity of your injuries, the amount of your medical expenses and lost wages, whether you suffered permanent disability, and how the accident has affected your quality of life. No attorney can give you an exact value without reviewing all the details of your case.

Economic damages like medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost income are relatively straightforward to calculate. However, these cases also involve non-economic damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. These damages can be substantial in cases involving severe injuries.

An experienced truck accident attorney will work with medical experts and economists to project your future costs and losses. Many truck accident injuries require ongoing treatment, and you deserve compensation for future expenses, not just past bills. Our law firm fights for maximum compensation that reflects the full impact of your injuries.

Will my truck accident case go to trial?

Most truck accident cases settle without going to trial, but that doesn’t mean you should choose an attorney who avoids the courtroom. Insurance companies offer better settlements when they know your attorney is prepared to take the case to trial if necessary. An attorney with a strong trial record has more leverage in negotiations.

Settlement negotiations typically occur after your attorney has gathered all evidence and documented your damages fully. The insurance company will make an offer, and your attorney will negotiate for a fair settlement. If the insurance company refuses to offer reasonable compensation, your attorney can file a lawsuit and take the case to trial.

Having a truck accident lawyer who is willing and able to try cases is important. Insurance companies track which attorneys settle every case and which ones go to trial. They’re more likely to make fair offers to attorneys with strong trial records. Our law firm has successfully tried numerous truck accident cases and recovered significant verdicts for our clients.

How long will my truck accident case take?

The timeline for resolving a truck accident claim varies depending on several factors. Simple cases with clear liability and less severe injuries may settle in a few months. Complex cases involving disputed liability, catastrophic injuries, or multiple parties can take a year or longer to resolve.

One factor that affects timing is medical treatment. You shouldn’t settle your case until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement or understand the full extent of your permanent injuries. Settling too early might mean accepting less than you deserve if complications develop later.

Investigation also takes time in commercial vehicle accident cases. Your attorney needs to gather evidence from trucking companies, review black box data, obtain maintenance records, interview witnesses, and potentially hire expert witnesses. This thorough investigation builds a stronger case but requires time. Our truck accident attorneys work efficiently while ensuring no important evidence is overlooked.

What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?

It’s common for truck drivers and trucking companies to blame accident victims to avoid liability. The truck driver’s statement doesn’t determine who was actually at fault. Your accident attorney will gather evidence to prove what really happened, including the police report, witness statements, accident scene evidence, and data from the truck’s electronic systems.

Texas follows a modified comparative fault system. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault, as long as you were not more than 50% responsible for the accident. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault, you would receive 80% of the total damages.

Insurance companies often try to assign more fault to accident victims than they deserve. An experienced truck accident attorney will fight these attempts and present evidence showing the truck driver’s negligence caused your injuries. Don’t accept blame or make statements about fault to insurance adjusters without talking to an attorney first.

Can I still file a claim if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Yes, you can still pursue a truck accident lawsuit even if the truck driver was an independent contractor rather than a direct employee of the trucking company. However, these cases can be more complex because trucking companies often argue they’re not liable for the actions of independent contractors.

Your attorney will investigate the relationship between the driver and the trucking company to determine if the company exercised enough control over the driver to be held liable. Factors include who controlled the driver’s schedule, who maintained the truck, who determined routes, and whether the driver worked exclusively for one company.

Many trucking companies misclassify drivers as independent contractors to avoid liability. Even if the driver is legitimately an independent contractor, the commercial trucking company may still be liable for negligent hiring, inadequate training, or failure to monitor the driver’s safety record. Our Houston truck accident attorneys know how to hold trucking companies accountable regardless of how they classify their drivers.

What damages can I recover in a truck accident case?

Truck accident claims can include several types of damages. Economic damages cover your financial losses, including medical expenses for emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgery, medication, rehabilitation, and future medical care. You can also recover lost wages for time missed from work and loss of future earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job.

Non-economic damages compensate for physical pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and permanent disability or disfigurement. These damages can be substantial in cases involving serious injuries like spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, or broken bones that never fully heal.

In some cases, Texas law allows punitive damages when the defendant’s conduct was especially reckless or intentional. These damages punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. An experienced truck accident lawyer will evaluate all potential damages in your case and fight for maximum compensation.

Do I need a lawyer for my truck accident case?

While you’re not legally required to hire an attorney, commercial vehicle accident cases are complex and difficult to handle on your own. Trucking companies and their insurers have teams of lawyers and investigators working to minimize their liability from the moment an accident occurs. Trying to negotiate with them without legal representation puts you at a serious disadvantage.

An accident attorney brings knowledge of federal trucking regulations, experience dealing with commercial insurance companies, and resources to thoroughly investigate your claim. Studies show that accident victims who hire attorneys typically recover significantly more compensation than those who handle claims themselves, even after paying attorney fees.

Most personal injury lawyer practices, including ours, offer a free consultation to evaluate your case. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Given the complexity of truck accident cases and the tactics insurance companies use, having experienced legal representation is almost always worth it.

What if I can’t afford a lawyer?

You don’t need money upfront to hire a Houston truck accident attorney. Most personal injury attorney practices work on a contingency fee basis. This means your attorney only gets paid if they recover compensation for you, either through settlement or trial verdict. The attorney’s fee comes as a percentage of your recovery.

This arrangement makes legal representation accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. It also aligns your attorney’s interests with yours. Your attorney is motivated to recover the maximum compensation possible because their fee depends on your recovery.

During your free consultation, ask about the fee structure and any additional costs you might be responsible for. Most firms advance the costs of investigating and prosecuting your case, including expert witness fees, court costs, and investigation expenses. You typically only reimburse these costs if your case is successful. Our law firm believes everyone deserves quality legal representation after a truck accident, regardless of their ability to pay upfront.

How do I prove the truck driver was negligent?

Proving negligence in truck accident cases requires showing that the truck driver owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused your injuries as a result. Your truck accident lawyer will gather evidence to demonstrate each element of negligence.

Evidence might include the police report, which documents the officer’s observations and preliminary determination of fault. Witness statements from people who saw the accident can provide independent accounts of what happened. Photos and videos from the accident scene show vehicle positions, damage, road conditions, and other important details.

Your attorney will also obtain evidence specific to commercial trucks, including the driver’s logbook to check for hours-of-service violations, the truck’s maintenance records to identify mechanical issues, black box data showing speed and braking, and the driver’s qualification file to check for proper licensing and training. This evidence builds a comprehensive picture of the truck driver’s negligence.

What is the most common cause of truck accidents?

Driver error is the leading cause of truck accidents, though the specific type of error varies. Driver fatigue from violating hours-of-service regulations is a major factor in many collisions. Commercial truck drivers face pressure to meet deadlines, which can lead to pushing beyond safe driving limits.

Distracted driving is another common cause, particularly with the prevalence of cell phones and other electronic devices. Even a few seconds of inattention is dangerous when operating a commercial truck. Speeding, aggressive driving, improper lane changes, and failure to check blind spots also contribute to many accidents.

Beyond driver error, truck accidents can result from inadequate maintenance, improperly loaded or secured cargo, defective truck parts, and poor training. Often multiple parties share responsibility for an accident. An experienced truck accident attorney will investigate all potential causes and identify all liable parties to maximize your compensation.

What should I not say to the insurance company?

After a truck accident, insurance adjusters may contact you quickly, often before you’ve had a chance to talk to an attorney. Be very careful about what you say. Don’t give a recorded statement without consulting an attorney first. Adjusters are trained to ask questions that might get you to say something that damages your claim.

Don’t admit fault or apologize for the accident, even if you think you might have contributed to it. Don’t minimize your injuries by saying you’re “fine” or “okay.” Many serious injuries don’t show symptoms immediately, and statements you make early on can be used against you later if your injuries turn out to be worse than initially thought.

Don’t accept the insurance company’s first settlement offer without talking to an attorney. Initial offers are often much lower than what your claim is actually worth. Once you accept a settlement and sign a release, you typically cannot go back and ask for more money if your injuries prove to be more serious than you thought. Contact a Houston truck accident attorney before making any statements or accepting any offers from insurance companies.

Can family members file a claim if someone died in a truck accident?

Yes, family members can file a wrongful death claim if a loved one died in a fatal truck accident. Texas law specifies which family members have the right to file. The surviving spouse has the primary right to bring the claim. If there’s no surviving spouse or the spouse doesn’t file within three months, surviving children can file. If there are no spouse or children, the deceased’s parents may file.

A wrongful death lawsuit allows family members to recover compensation for their losses, including funeral and burial expenses, medical bills incurred before death, the deceased’s lost income and benefits, loss of companionship and guidance, and mental anguish. These damages attempt to compensate families for both economic and emotional losses.

Filing a wrongful death claim involves strict deadlines and complex legal requirements. An experienced truck accident lawyer can guide families through this difficult process, handling the legal details while families focus on healing. Our Houston personal injury lawyers treat these cases with the sensitivity they deserve while fighting aggressively for fair compensation.