Commercial trucking accidents in Houston typically happen when truck drivers and trucking companies make mistakes. If you suffered injuries in a recent trucking accident, the legal team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyer can handle every step of the process for you by filing a claim on your behalf or litigating your case to a resolution in court.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Houston truck accident attorney, please call us at 866-455-3629 or contact us online for more information.
Injured In A Truck Accident?
Why Choose Us for Your Legal Needs?
If you suffered injuries in a Houston truck crash, you want our knowledgeable team of lawyers handling your case and advocating for your interests. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we will file a claim on your behalf, negotiate with insurance company representatives, and pursue a fair settlement offer for your injuries. If the insurance company will not compensate you fairly, we can file a lawsuit and take your case to court if necessary.
Our legal team has recovered millions of dollars on behalf of our clients – including injured truck accident victims – and are prepared to fight for your rights today.
You can view some of our most recent client testimonials by clicking here. Let us help you obtain the monetary recovery you deserve for your injuries right away.
How Much Is My Houston Truck Accident Case Worth?
Determining the value of your Houston truck accident case involves several factors, including the extent of your injuries, the effects on your life, and the specifics of the accident. Truck accidents often lead to significant damages due to the size and weight of commercial trucks compared to smaller vehicles. To understand the potential value of your case, it is essential to consider both the economic and non-economic damages you may be entitled to recover.
Economic damages are the quantifiable costs resulting from the accident. They include:
- Medical Expenses — This covers hospital stays, surgeries, doctor’s appointments, physical therapy, and any ongoing medical care you may need. It is crucial to keep detailed records of all your medical treatments and bills.
- Lost income — If your injuries force you to miss work, you can claim compensation for lost income. This also includes future earnings if your ability to work is permanently affected.
- Property Damage — This includes the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
Non-economic damages are more subjective and cover the non-monetary consequences of the accident. They include:
- Pain and Suffering — This compensation is for the physical pain and emotional distress the accident and your injuries caused.
- Loss of Consortium — If the accident has negatively affected your relationship with your spouse, you may be entitled to damages for loss of companionship.
- Mental Anguish — This addresses the psychological repercussions of the accident, including anxiety, depression, and other emotional struggles.
In some cases, you may also be entitled to punitive damages. These are awarded to punish the truck driver or trucking company for particularly reckless or negligent behavior. While not common, they can significantly increase the value of your case if applicable.
The final value of your case depends on the severity of your injuries and the evidence supporting your claims. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we will aggressively fight for the fair settlement award or litigation compensation you deserve.
Common Locations for Truck Accidents in Houston
Houston is a sprawling city with a complex network of highways and roads, making it a hotspot for truck accidents. Various locations in Houston are particularly prone to these accidents, often due to negligence by truck drivers or trucking companies.
- Interstate 10 (I-10) — This major east-west highway is one of the busiest in Houston. It sees a significant amount of truck traffic, especially near the Port of Houston. Accidents here are often due to speeding, fatigue, and improper lane changes by truck drivers.
- Interstate 45 (I-45) — Running north-south through Houston, I-45 connects the city to Dallas and Galveston. This highway is notorious for traffic congestion and construction zones. Truck accidents here frequently result from driver inattention, speeding, and failure to properly navigate construction areas.
- Highway 59/Interstate 69 (I-69) — Commercial trucks heavily use this major highway corridor. The stretch through downtown Houston is particularly hazardous. Common causes of truck accidents here include distracted driving, following too closely, and aggressive driving behaviors by truck drivers.
- 610 Loop— The 610 Loop encircles central Houston and connects several major highways. Its heavy traffic volume and frequent lane merges create a high risk for truck accidents. Negligence, such as failing to check blind spots and making unsafe lane changes, often leads to serious collisions.
- Beltway 8 (Sam Houston Tollway) — This toll road loops around Houston and is a major route for trucks avoiding inner-city traffic. High speeds and frequent merging traffic contribute to accidents. Truck driver fatigue and improper maintenance by trucking companies are common factors.
- Port of Houston and Industrial Areas — The areas around the Port of Houston and other industrial zones see a lot of truck traffic. Accidents in these areas often result from overloaded trucks, improper securing of cargo, and failure to maintain vehicles properly.
- Rural Routes on the Outskirts of Houston — These less-traveled roads can be dangerous for truck accidents due to higher speeds and less frequent police presence. Trucking companies’ negligence in maintaining their vehicles and ensuring drivers follow safety regulations often leads to accidents here.
Types of Houston Truck Accidents
Houston is a major hub for trucking, and unfortunately, truck accidents are not uncommon. These accidents can be severe due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. They include the following:
- Rear-end Collisions — These occur when a truck crashes into the back of another vehicle. They often happen because of distracted driving, speeding, or following too closely. Trucks require a longer stopping distance than cars, so if a driver is not paying attention or is too close, they can easily cause a rear-end collision.
- Jackknife Accidents — In a jackknife accident, the trailer swings out from behind the cab, forming a V shape. This usually happens when a driver brakes too suddenly or improperly on slick roads, causing the truck to lose control. Poor maintenance, like faulty brakes, can also contribute to these accidents.
- Tire Blowouts — When a truck tire blows out, it can cause the driver to lose control, leading to serious accidents. Blowouts often result from poor maintenance, such as failing to check tire pressure or ignoring worn-out tires. Overloading the truck can also cause tires to fail.
- Underride Accidents — These occur when a smaller vehicle slides under the back or side of a truck. They are extremely dangerous and often fatal. Poor visibility, lack of proper reflectors, or malfunctioning lights can contribute to underride accidents.
- Rollover Accidents — Rollovers happen when a truck tips over onto its side or roof. Taking turns too quickly, swerving suddenly, or improper loading of cargo are frequent causes. Trucking companies must ensure that loads are properly balanced and drivers are trained to handle their vehicles safely.
- Blind Spot Accidents — Trucks have large blind spots where the driver cannot see other vehicles. Accidents occur when truck drivers change lanes without checking these blind spots.
- Fatigue-related Accidents — Truck drivers often work long hours, leading to fatigue. Drowsy driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving and can cause serious accidents.
Common Injuries in Houston Truck Accident
Truck accidents in Houston often lead to severe injuries due to the large size and weight of commercial trucks compared to passenger vehicles. Common truck accident injuries include:
- Head and Brain Injuries — These are among the most serious injuries in truck accidents. They include concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and skull fractures. Such injuries can result from the head striking the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows during a collision. TBIs can have long-term effects on memory, cognition, and overall brain function.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — The force of a truck accident can cause damage to the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis. Even less severe spinal injuries can result in chronic pain, reduced mobility, and other significant health issues. Prompt medical attention is crucial to mitigate long-term damage.
- Broken Bones — The force of a truck collision often results in fractures. Commonly broken bones include arms, legs, ribs, and the pelvis. Recovery from broken bones can be lengthy and may require surgeries, physical therapy, and extended periods of rest.
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries — These injuries occur when the head suddenly jerks forward and then backward – a common occurrence in rear-end collisions. Whiplash can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in the neck, as well as headaches and dizziness.
- Internal Injuries — The force of a truck accident can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs such as the liver or kidneys. These injuries are particularly dangerous because they are not always immediately apparent and often require urgent medical intervention.
- Cuts and Lacerations — Broken glass, twisted metal, and other debris can cause deep cuts and lacerations. While some cuts are superficial, others may require stitches or surgery and can leave permanent scars.
- Burns — In cases where a truck accident leads to a fire or explosion, victims may suffer from burns. Burns can range in severity and often require specialized medical treatment, including skin grafts and reconstructive surgery.
- Psychological Injuries — Beyond physical injuries, truck accidents can also cause significant psychological trauma. Victims may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other emotional difficulties.
Fighting the Insurance Company in a Houston Truck Accident Case
When you are involved in a truck accident in Houston, dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we can fight on your behalf to ensure that you receive the compensation that you deserve.
- Gathering Evidence — Our first step is to collect all necessary evidence to build a strong case. This includes police reports, medical records, witness statements, and photos of the accident scene. We may also obtain truck maintenance records and driver logs to prove negligence.
- Negotiating with the Insurance Company — Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s interests. We have experience dealing with these adjusters and know how to negotiate effectively. We present the evidence, demonstrate the extent of your injuries, and argue for a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost earnings, and other damages.
- Calculating Fair Compensation — We ensure that all your damages are accounted for, including economic damages like medical bills and lost income, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. We also consider future costs, for example, ongoing medical treatment or lost earning capacity.
- Filing a Lawsuit If Necessary — If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your case to court. Filing a lawsuit shows the insurance company that we are serious about fighting for your rights. This step often encourages them to offer a better settlement to avoid a trial.
- Handling Communication — Dealing with insurance companies can be stressful. We handle all communications on your behalf, ensuring that you do not say anything that can harm your case. We keep you informed every step of the way, explaining your options and advising you on the best course of action.
Steps to Take After a Houston Truck Collision
After a truck collision in Houston, taking the right steps is crucial for your recovery and potential legal case. These steps include:
- Finish Medical Treatment — Your health is the top priority. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan thoroughly, keeping all medical records and receipts.
- Gather Evidence — Collect as much evidence as possible, including copies of police reports, medical records, medical bills, and surveillance camera footage (if available) that may have captured the truck incident.
- Speak with an Experienced Houston Truck Accident Lawyer — At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we can guide you through the legal process, gather additional evidence, and communicate with the insurance company on your behalf. We can also ensure that you meet all legal deadlines and file necessary documents promptly.
- Document Everything — Keep a detailed record of your medical treatments, lost income, and any communication related to the accident. This documentation will support your case and help us build a strong claim.
Following these steps can significantly affect the outcome of your truck accident case and ensure that you receive the compensation you need.
Injured In A Truck Accident?
Speak with an Experienced Houston Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you suffered injuries in a recent trucking accident, the experienced team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers will aggressively fight for your rights and interests. We will do everything possible to maximize your compensation and recover the full compensation you deserve.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable Houston truck accident attorney, please call us at 866-455-3629 or contact us online today.