Individuals and companies use commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) every day to transport goods and passengers. Due to their size, accidents involving CMVs often cause injuries and fatalities. While victims of CMV accidents may file insurance claims, determining fault presents a challenge that the injured person may struggle to achieve on their own. If you suffered injury or lost a loved one in an accident, our lawyers can help you build a case and seek damages.
We began providing legal services for our clients in 2002, and we understand the complexities involved in dealing with insurance companies and large corporations. The attorneys at D. Miller & Associates, PLLC work hard to investigate the circumstances of the accident, prove fault, and fight for your case. Call us today at (713) 850-8600 to discuss your Midland accident with our legal team.
Dangers of CMV Accidents
The Motor Carrier Safety Act of 1984 defines a commercial motor vehicle as a vehicle used in interstate commerce to transport people or goods and:
- Weighs more than 10,001 pounds in terms of gross vehicle weight or gross combination weight, whichever is greater
- Transports more than eight passengers for compensation or more than 15 passengers if not for compensation
- Transports hazardous materials
To be considered a CMV, the vehicle must operate under the ownership of a company. Most often, CMV accidents involve semi-trucks. Other types of CMVs may include box trucks, vans, buses, and trailers. The larger nature of CMVs makes accidents particularly dangerous. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), Texas ranked among the top ten states for fatal large truck and bus accidents from 2015–2017.
Additionally, FMCSA crash statistics by state show that nearly 10,000 Texas drivers suffered an injury in 2017 alone, and that number continues to rise. If you fell victim to a CMV accident, a commercial vehicle accident lawyer serving Midland can help you seek damages for your injuries.
Liability in CMV Accidents
Determining responsibility in a CMV accident case involves a complicated process. While the driver responsible for the accident maintains liability, steps to proving who is at fault require in-depth investigation and the collection of evidence against the driver. Many roles come into play in the operation of a CMV, such as a vehicle’s manufacturer, the company that owns it, and its driver.
Our attorneys can uncover details regarding the accident to gather the appropriate information required to establish liability and help you recover damages from the party or parties deemed responsible for your injuries. Contact D. Miller & Associates, PLLC at (713) 850-8600 to speak with our legal team about your case.
Types of Damages You Can Recover
Accidents with CMVs often cause injuries and fatalities, but they may also contribute to other forms of loss. An injury can result in life-changing circumstances that make it difficult for you to get around, pay bills, or even complete daily tasks. If you suffered injury or the loss of a loved one due to a CMV accident, a commercial vehicle accident lawyer serving Midland can help you recover damages, which may include payment for:
- Emergency medical bills and rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages and/or loss of future income
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering or mental anguish
- Funeral and burial expenses
What to Do Immediately After Your Accident
You may struggle to find the next course of action after your CMV accident. You may feel fear, anger, or sadness at what just occurred, and we understand that those emotions can make it difficult to decide what to do next. If you can, move to a safe place before taking the next steps.
Talk to Police and Your Insurance Company
If your condition allows, give the police your information right away, including your name, address, phone number, and insurance details. Officers may ask you to recount your experience, and your first-hand testimony may be helpful to have on record, especially if the other driver caused the accident. If you feel confused or unsure, do not hesitate to politely turn down questions until you speak with an attorney.
After you speak with the police, call your insurance company right away, no matter who caused the accident. You should not provide any information that may influence what they decide to cover, such as details about your injuries or who maintains fault for the collision. Providing them with the basics, though, such as personal information and confirmation of an accident, plays an important role in determining whether you may receive damages.
Seek Medical Assistance
If you suffered severe injuries, you will likely receive medical treatment before you have a chance to communicate with the police or your insurance company. These concerns take precedence, and you will have the opportunity to contact authorities later. We encourage you to seek medical help for your injuries as soon as possible and remember to keep all appointments for follow-up care if required.
Connect with an Attorney
As soon as you feel well enough to do so, contact a commercial vehicle accident lawyer serving Midland to discuss your case. They will help you gather the information and documentation you need to hold the responsible party accountable and recover damages for your injuries. The evidence they will gather to help you build your case may include:
- Police reports
- Witness testimony
- Expert evaluations
- Medical records
- Photographs
D. Miller & Associates, PLLC Can Help
The Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) found that Midland County had 565 CMV accidents in the state in 2018, and many of the accidents resulted in injuries and fatalities. If you suffered an injury or lost a loved one in a CMV accident in Midland, our attorneys can help you determine liability, investigate your case, assemble the evidence, and recover damages for your losses.
Our legal team will work with you on a personal basis to familiarize ourselves with the details of your case and seek justice on your behalf. Call D. Miller & Associates, PLLC today at (713) 850-8600 for your free case evaluation.
Related Frequently Asked Questions
- What Should I Do if I Notice Symptoms of Whiplash After a Car Accident?
- What Does the UCLA Sexual Abuse Settlement Cover, What Are the Specifics?
- What Should You Do If You’re Involved in A Motorcycle Accident in Texas?
- Can I Get Workers’ Compensation After a Car Accident?
- How Does Maximum Medical Improvement Apply to My Injury Case?