Why You Need an Experienced Attorney for Your Semi-Truck Accident Case

The thought of being involved in an 18 wheeler accident is scary enough without even knowing the statistics. However, a quick look at the numbers reveals a terrifyingly high rate of accidents involving semi-trucks. The Fatal Analysis Reporting System (FARS) reports that 4,066 large semis were involved in accidents in 2008. Even when these truck accidents are not fatal, they tend to have more devastating injuries because of the weight and size of semi trucks and the loads that they carry.
There are numerous contributing factors to trucking crashes. Many of these involve issues with the truck itself including, overloaded trucks, over-sized trucks, brakes that have not been properly maintained and insufficient safety devices (eg. reflectors and lights). Also, because of their size and weight, these trucks make much wider turns and take far longer to stop than regular vehicles. As far as the drivers are concerned there are many other problems that can occur. Semi trucks are often operated by drivers that have been on the road for long hours or who have worked through designated rest times.Sometimes the drivers have not been properly trained or just make poor safety decisions such as driving in low visibility or traction situations, driving irresponsibly in regards to speed or aggression, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or failing to yield.
Semi accidents are very serious and can involve many complex factors. Unlike most passenger vehicle accidents, the operator of the vehicle is often not the owner. There are also many more regulations placed on semi-trucks than on regular vehicles. Determining cause and accountability can be complex and is best left in the hands of an experienced truck accident lawyer. If you or a family member has been involved in an accident involving an 18-wheeler, it is in your best interest to contact an attorney with extensive knowledge and reputation in this area.
Every 16 minutes someone is killed in an accident involving a semi-truck and a shocking nine percent of these occur in Texas. To speak with a personal injury lawyer about your claim call (214) 651-6100 ((214) 651-6100) or visit our about us page and take a moment to fill out our form for a free evaluation.
It is also important to be aware that there are time limits on filing a truck wreck claim. In Texas the limit is two years from the date the accident occurred. Consulting an experienced truck wreck attorney as soon as possible after the accident is your best course of action.