Tractor-Trailer Accident Lawyer in Galveston, TX

The Insurance Information Institute (III) reported that 36,120 people suffered fatal injuries in car accidents across the United States in 2019, and while that number decreased slightly from the previous year, deaths that occurred in tractor-trailer accidents increased. In 2019 alone, 452 fatal accidents in Texas involved tractor-trailers, and thousands suffered injuries in non-fatal accidents. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), more large truck accidents occur in Texas each year than in any other state.

Semi-truck accidents can have serious consequences, and victims often suffer long-term effects as a result of their injuries. If you suffered injuries or lost a loved one in a tractor-trailer accident, you may feel confused about the next step to take. A tractor-trailer accident lawyer serving Galveston, TX can help you determine if you can file a claim and seek financial recovery to get back on your feet. Contact D. Miller & Associates, PLLC™ today at (713) 850-8600 to discuss your case with our legal team.

The Dangers of Tractor-Trailer Accidents

The size and weight of tractor-trailers gives truck drivers the advantage of enhanced safety on the road, but it often puts others on the road at risk. Large trucks have inherent dangers as they typically weigh 20 to 30 times more than a passenger car. They also have a higher ground clearance which allows for underride accidents. This occurs when smaller vehicles slip underneath.

Unlike passenger vehicles, which can stop relatively quickly, it takes longer for large trucks to come to a stop. If a truck driver must avoid something in the road or slow down immediately, they may not have the space they need to do so, which can result in serious accidents.

Tractor-Trailer Accidents Occur for Many Reasons

Regardless of the type of vehicle, driver error accounts for as many as 96% of all traffic collisions. While certain circumstances such as bad weather can make driving more difficult, accidents often result when drivers choose not to drive in accordance with conditions. Other driving behaviors that can lead to accidents include:

  • Speeding
  • Distracted driving
  • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Failure to yield right of way
  • Improper lane usage
  • Failure to obey traffic signs or signals
  • Swerving or overcorrecting
  • Driving while fatigued

If the truck driver who caused your accident committed these or other unlawful errors at the time of the collision, a tractor-trailer accident lawyer serving Galveston, TX can help you establish liability in your case and seek financial recovery for your injuries.

Other Liable Parties in a Tractor-Trailer Accident

A driver usually causes a tractor-trailer accident, but in some cases, other parties may hold responsibility, as well. If the negligent or unlawful actions of someone other than another driver caused your accident, you may still have the option to pursue legal action in your case.

Vehicle Manufacturer

Unfortunately, manufacturers often do not become aware of the need for a recall until after several accidents have taken place. If a defective vehicle part or faulty manufacturing caused the tractor-trailer accident that led to your injuries, you may qualify for financial recovery.

Government

In most cases, civilians cannot file a civil suit against a government entity due to sovereign immunity. However, the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) allows for civil suits against government employees under certain circumstances. If government personnel directly contributed to the conditions that caused your Galveston accident, we can help you determine if you have a case. Contact the legal team at D. Miller & Associates, PLLC™ online today.

Financial Recovery in a Tractor-Trailer Accident

Every tractor-trailer accident case differs from the next, and the circumstances determine the type and amount of financial recovery you may receive. Lawyers, insurance companies, and the court will weigh factors such as the severity of injuries, the extent of financial loss, and the impact of emotional trauma when deciding on an appropriate amount to cover your damages. The damages victims of tractor-trailer accidents may receive include:

  • Emergency medical care, rehabilitation, and ongoing healthcare expenses
  • Lost wages for time missed at work due to injury
  • Loss of future income for financial loss associated with losing a loved one
  • Property damage for vehicle repair or a new vehicle
  • Pain and suffering, such as mental anguish or permanent disfigurement
  • Funeral and burial expenses for those who lost a loved one in the accident

A tractor-trailer accident lawyer serving Galveston, TX can help you assess your damages and pursue fair recovery for your injuries. Call today to discuss your case at (713) 850-8600.

Texas Statute of Limitations on Tractor-Trailer Accident Cases

Each state determines how long victims of accidents have to file a claim for the losses they suffered as a result of someone else’s negligence. Usually, victims who wish to file a personal injury claim for their own injuries can do so up to two years from the date that the accident occurred. Family members of victims who lost their life in an accident also have up to two years to file their claim for wrongful death, and the statute of limitations begins on the date of the victim’s passing.

Exceptions do apply in certain cases, but a lawyer can help you determine how much time you have to file your claim. As a general rule, lawyers will suggest that you file as soon as possible to avoid any potential delays in the process and prevent you from missing your window of opportunity.

D. Miller & Associates, PLLC™ Can Help You

Tractor-trailer accidents can have a lasting impact not only on your physical health but also on your financial stability. You should not have to suffer because of someone else’s negligence, and while no amount of financial awards can resolve your pain, it can help you get back on your feet and on the road to recovery.

If you or a loved one suffered serious or fatal injuries in a Galveston tractor-trailer accident, call D. Miller & Associates, PLLC™ today at (713) 850-8600 to get started on your case.