Attorneys for Austin Passengers in 18-Wheeler Accidents

While 18-wheelers, also known as semi-trucks, tractor-trailers big rigs, etc., are primarily designed for cargo transportation, there are some situations where passengers may be present, such as:

• Spouses or family members of the driver may ride along with permission from the trucking company and adherence to specific company policies.
• During training or onboarding of new drivers, drivers may have trainees or co-pilots accompany them to learn the ropes.
• Independent contractors may perform tasks like mechanical work or inspections that require them to ride in a truck.

If you were recently injured as a passenger in an 18-wheeler accident, it's crucial to consult with an Austin 18 wheeler passenger accident lawyer with experience in personal injury and commercial vehicle accidents as possible to discuss your legal options. Our team at Carabin Shaw will assess your specific circumstances to determine the best legal strategies for your case and explore all potential avenues for attaining compensation. Call 800-862-1260 to schedule your free consultation today.

Injured passengers hold the same general rights as those injured in any other motor vehicle accident in Texas, but some important regulations related to complex commercial trucking regulations must also be considered.

Passenger rights and relevant laws in Texas truck accidents

• Texas Comparative Fault Law: Even if the passenger shares some degree of fault in the accident, they can still recover damages, but their compensation may be reduced proportionally. For example, if a court determines the passenger was 20% at fault and the damages amount to $100,000, they could potentially receive $80,000.
• Texas Statute of Limitations: Passengers generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.

Potential liable parties

• The Truck Driver: If the driver was negligent (e.g., distracted, speeding, driving under the influence).
• The Trucking Company: Trucking companies can be held liable under the concept of "vicarious liability" for their driver's negligence or if they breached regulations related to hiring, training, or maintaining their vehicles.
• Manufacturer of the Truck or its Parts: If a defective part (e.g., faulty brakes) contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be liable.
• Other Drivers: If another driver's actions caused or contributed to the crash.

Because truck accidents often involve multiple liable parties and state regulations, consulting with an Austin 18 wheeler accident attorney at Carabin Shaw is vital. The specific rights of an injured passenger depends, of course, on the unique circumstances of their accident. Our top lawyers have decades of experience handling a variety of cases, and will assess your claim to help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

Texas has long stretches of highway with high-speed limits, tempting truck drivers to exceed safe speeds, especially when pressured to meet deadlines.

Fatigue due to long hours and demanding schedules remains a major concern in Texas.

Using cell phones, or engaging in other activities while driving can significantly distract truck drivers, compromising their ability to react to hazards.

Aggressive lane changes without proper signaling or checking blind spots can lead to collisions with other vehicles, especially smaller cars.

This can include exceeding weight limits, failing to properly secure cargo, or not adhering to mandated rest periods for drivers, all contributing to increased accident risks.

Regardless of the cause of your truck accident, legal avenues are available to you to pursue compensation for your serious injuries.

While options might seem limited for injured passengers in work trucks, there are actually a few legal avenues available to victims. Some general information is listed below, but be sure to contact a Texas personal injury attorney as soon as possible to discuss the specifics of your case.

If both individuals in the truck work for the same company, the injured passenger might be eligible for benefits through workers' compensation. This can include lost wages and medical coverage until the individual can return to work.

If the passenger doesn't work for the company, they might need to file claims with both the other driver's insurance and the work truck driver's insurance. In some cases, the passenger might need to pursue a lawsuit against the at-fault driver's insurance company. In many situations, even with insurance coverage, an injured passenger might need to sue the at-fault party to obtain a fair settlement for their injuries and damages.

These processes typically involve hiring an Austin 18 wheeler passenger injury lawyer to assist in obtaining the maximum compensation possible for severe injuries, both physical and emotional. Trust the Texas attorneys at Carabin Shaw, who have decades of experience in trucking injury cases and will fight hard on the behalf of victims and their families.

If you were injured as a passenger in an 18-wheeler accident in Austin, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Our team of experienced personal injury lawyers understand the unique challenges passengers face after these devastating accidents, and are committed to fighting for victims and their families. Read over our reviews to learn more about how we’ve helped clients just like you.

Call 800-862-1260 to schedule your free case review and discuss your options moving forward. We also offer our services on a contingency-fee basis, which means you only pay us if we win your case. Both English and Spanish-speaking staff are available, and are ready to speak with you 24/7.

For more information:

• Texas Statutes 33
• Texas Statutes 16
• Texas Statutes 501