After an Accident with a Commercial Vehicle in West Texas | What's Next?

If you live in Odessa, Texas you may be at a higher risk of becoming involved in a commercial vehicle accident, because rural highways are key to the transportation of goods. But knowing what to do after an accident with a commercial vehicle in West Texas can lead to a successful lawsuit and peace of mind. Have questions about your accident? Contact an Odessa 18 wheeler accident attorney from the office of Carabin Shaw today! We’re available to take your call and give you a free consultation.

What To Do Immediately After an Accident:

• Stop and get to safety
• Check for injuries
• Call 911, even if there are no injuries
• Exchange information: Contact and insurance information will be important to have
• Document the accident: Take photos, write down the location, take names of witnesses
• Notify your insurance agent

Being involved in a commercial vehicle accident can be traumatic and nerve-wracking, but it’s important to never admit fault, especially on the scene. Linking up with a commercial vehicle accident lawyer in Odessa afterward ensures you’re receiving the best legal services for your claim.

The largest difference between these two accidents is the presence of a third party involved: the commercial vehicle company. Commercial vehicles include vans, buses, and 18 wheeler trucks. The larger of these vehicles can cause more severe damage, and you may be offered a higher settlement, depending on the company and the consequences of the accident. Connect with an accident attorney in Odessa, Texas who specializes in commercial vehicle accidents.

There are three primary parties who could be considered liable for your accident:

• The other driver: The driver of the commercial vehicle could be faulted for distracted or fatigued driving, a common cause for accidents
• The company: The company for the commercial vehicle could be held liable, particularly if they fail to maintain their fleet
• You: Unfortunately, you could also be held liable if you engaged in negligent behavior

Examples of negligent behavior include:

• Speeding
• Driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated
• Distracted driving (such as driving while texting)
• Failure to signal lane change

Engaging in negligent behavior places yourself and others in harm’s way. It’s important to work with a specialized lawyer who is familiar with local and state traffic laws. If you believe the other driver or the company caused your injuries, then you need to speak with an Odessa 18 wheeler accident attorney today.

The short answer is: possibly. Your case could also end in a settlement. A settlement is when the victim is given a sum of money, typically in exchange for a signed contract. A settlement requires lots of negotiations, so you’ll still want to work with an accident attorney in Odessa, Texas. Additionally, a settlement can occur at any point during the legal process, even if a trial has been initiated. You can learn more about the legal possibilities by speaking with an attorney today through our free initial consultation.

Filing a lawsuit after an accident with a commercial vehicle in West Texas must be done within two years from the accident, so it may be worth speaking to a lawyer as soon as you are able. They’ll be able to help with all the legal paperwork and proceedings so you can focus on recovery.

Living in Odessa, Texas and looking for an experienced attorney? Call the office of Carabin Shaw today. We’ve earned over $1 billion for our personal injury clients. Furthermore, you only pay us if you win. Looking for a commercial vehicle accident attorney in Odessa is easy! Give us a call today at 800.862.1260 for a free consultation.