McAllen 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer

Aggressive Representation for Truck Accident Victims in McAllen, TX and Beyond

Truck accidents are especially devastating. Large trucks are designed to transport massive amounts of cargo over long distances. As a result, they are often much heavier than regular cars and SUVs. When a truck and a car collide, the car is almost always the loser.

If you were injured in a truck accident, you need experienced representation. At Leah Wise Law Firm, we understand how truck accidents happen and what to look for in a truck accident case. We know how to effectively fight for the compensation you need and deserve.

Call (956) 232-2349 or contact us online.

Determining Liability After a Truck Accident

Determining liability in a truck accident can be complex due to the involvement of multiple parties such as the driver, trucking company, manufacturers, or even maintenance providers. The following factors are crucial in determining responsibility:

• Driver Negligence: Assessing whether the truck driver acted negligently, such as speeding, driving under the influence, or violating traffic rules.

• Employer Responsibility: Holding the trucking company accountable for inadequate training, negligent hiring, or failure to maintain the vehicle.

• Vehicle Maintenance: Investigating whether the accident resulted from poor maintenance or mechanical failures of the truck.

• Cargo Loading: Evaluating the loading process to determine if improper cargo loading contributed to the accident.

• Third-Party Liability: Exploring the involvement of third parties, such as manufacturers or maintenance contractors, whose negligence may have played a role.

Our experienced lawyers will thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence, and identify all liable parties.

Truck Driver Hours of Service Regulations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets regulations on the number of hours commercial truck drivers can operate. Violations of these regulations can significantly contribute to accidents. Key regulations include:

• Maximum Driving Hours: Commercial truck drivers are typically limited to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off-duty.

• 14-Hour Limit: A driver may not exceed 14 hours of consecutive driving after 10 consecutive hours of rest. Please note that off-duty time does not extend the 14-hour period.

• Rest Breaks: Drivers must take a 30-minute break during any cumulative eight hours of driving without at least a 30-minute break.

• 60/70-Hour Limit: A driver is prohibited from driving after accumulating 60/70 hours on duty in a span of 7/8 consecutive days. However, they have the option to restart a new 7/8 consecutive day period after taking a continuous break of 34 hours or more.

• Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): ELDs are required to record a driver's hours accurately and prevent tampering.

Violations of these regulations can lead to driver fatigue and accidents. We will examine logbooks, GPS data, and other records to identify any violations contributing to your accident.

Compensation for Truck Accident Injury Victims

Victims of 18-wheeler accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for current and future medical bills related to the accident.

• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to the inability to work during recovery.

• Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical and emotional distress resulting from the accident.

• Property Damage: Coverage for the repair or replacement of damaged property, including the victim's vehicle.

• Wrongful Death Damages: Compensation for the family of a victim who has lost their life in a truck accident.

How a Truck Accident Attorney Can Help

Navigating the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, but an experienced attorney can provide invaluable assistance. Service attorneys provide to truck accident victims includes:

• Investigation: Conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the accident and identify responsible parties.

• Evidence Gathering: Collect and preserve crucial evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, and electronic data from the truck.

• Negotiation: Negotiate with insurance companies to secure fair and just compensation for your injuries and losses.

• Legal Expertise: Leverage legal expertise to navigate complex trucking regulations and build a strong case on your behalf.

• Court Representation: Provide aggressive representation in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation.

Choose The Leah Wise Law Firm

The Leah Wise Law Firm in McAllen, TX, is committed to advocating for the rights of those injured in 18-wheeler accidents. Our McAllen 18-wheeler accident lawyers will guide you through the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for your rights in court, if necessary. With a focus on personalized and results-driven legal solutions, we are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients.

If you've been a victim of an 18-wheeler accident, don't face the aftermath alone. Contact us at (956) 232-2349 or reach out online to schedule a consultation.