Texas Laws for Commercial Vehicles & Drivers - Help for San Antonio Accident Victims

Victims impacted by commercial vehicle accidents in San Antonio are often left to contend with serious damages. Their injuries and finances are made more complicated by complex laws and regulations surrounding personal injury claims in Texas. Big trucking companies and their insurance representatives also have an interest in settling these cases quickly with inadequate compensation.

The San Antonio commercial vehicle accident lawyers at Carabin Shaw are skilled at unraveling these complexities. Our experts navigate the at-fault distinctions of the Lone Star State, identify all potential parties at fault, and ensure victims receive the maximum compensation possible. Call 800-862-1260 today to schedule your FREE CASE REVIEW.

Texas Truck Accident Liability & Commercial Vehicle Laws

After a commercial vehicle accident, factors like vehicle inspection and maintenance, vehicle size and weight, and hazardous materials transportation all play a role in determining liability and a victims’ potential compensation. Below are a handful of Texas laws and regulations that may affect your case; contact a trusted lawyer to learn more.

Hours of Service Regulations

As outlined in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, the maximum time commercial vehicle drivers can spend operating their vehicles include an 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off duty, a 14-hour limit for the total on-duty period, mandatory rest breaks, and weekly limits on driving hours.

Drug and Alcohol Testing Requirements

(FMCSA) regulations mandate that commercial drivers undergo mandatory drug and alcohol testing. These regulations include random testing, post-accident testing, reasonable suspicion testing, and return-to-duty testing. Commercial drivers must adhere to strict standards to ensure sobriety while operating vehicles. Failure to adhere to these requirements may result in additional suits filed against multiple parties.

Insurance Requirements for Commercial Vehicles Liability Insurance

• Bodily injury liability: Commercial drivers are generally required to carry a minimum coverage amount per person injured and a higher minimum coverage amount per accident.
• For property damage liability: Commercial drivers must maintain coverage for property damage caused to others in an accident.

Minimum Coverage Amounts

• $30,000 for bodily injury or death per person
• $60,000 total for bodily injury or death per accident
• $25,000 for property damage per accident

The San Antonio commercial vehicle accident attorneys at Carabin Shaw have the expertise to navigate these regulations and fight for your rights against trucking companies and their insurers.

Who Can Be Held Accountable for the Damages of a Commercial Vehicle Accident

• The Truck Driver: If the driver was speeding, drowsy, driving while impaired, etc. they can be held responsible for a collision.
• The Trucking Company: A company is responsible for their employee's (the driver's) actions on the job. This holds true even if the company wasn't directly involved in the accident. Additionally, the company can be held liable if they:
  • Negligently hired or trained the driver
  • Failed to properly maintain the truck
  • Encouraged or pressured drivers to violate safety regulations
• The Cargo Loader: If the cargo was improperly secured or overloaded, exceeding weight limits, or involved hazardous materials not handled safely, the company responsible for loading could be liable.
• The Truck Manufacturer: If a defective part on the truck contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be held responsible.
• Government Entities: In some cases, if poorly maintained roads or faulty traffic signals contributed to the accident, a government agency could be liable.

It's crucial to remember that Texas is a modified comparative negligence state. This means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover compensation, but the amount will be reduced proportionally to your share of fault.

The San Antonio personal injury lawyers at Carabin Shaw are well versed in Texas trucking regulations and have decades of experience representing victims just like you. We will thoroughly investigate your accident, identify all potentially liable parties, and build a strong case to help you secure the maximum compensation you deserve.

The Legal Support You Need for Your Commercial Vehicle Accident Claim in San Antonio| Contact Us Today To Schedule Your Free Initial Consultation!

When it comes to navigating the complexities of commercial vehicle accidents in San Antonio, Carabin Shaw attorneys stand out as the best choice. With a proven track record of success and a dedication to client satisfaction, our team has the experience and knowledge necessary to secure maximum compensation for you and your family. Trust our team to advocate fiercely on your behalf and ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way.

For more information:

• Texas Statutes 644
• Texas Statutes 522
• ECFR
• Texas Statutes 621
• ECFR
• Texas Statutes 601
• Texas Statutes 502
• Texas Statutes 33.001

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