Laredo TX Trucking Accident Attorneys - Complexities of 18 Wheeler Accident Lawsuits

Commercial truck drivers in Texas play a vital role in the nation’s economy, but we can’t ignore the devastating injuries and fatalities they cause. Home to the most semi-truck drivers in the country, it’s no surprise that The Lone Star State accounts for the most 18 wheeler accidents and deaths, twice the amount of other states. Interstate 35, passing through Laredo, is one of the country’s busiest trucking routes. With the number of commercial vehicles increasing, this highway is becoming more treacherous for Texans daily.

The substantial weight and mass of an 18-wheeler make them much more difficult to control, slow down, and stop. This greatly amplifies the severity of a crash. If you or a loved one were involved in a semi-truck accident, the Laredo TX personal injury attorneys at Carabin Shaw will help you get your life back. You are protected under Texas law and have the right to take action. Your free consultation is waiting.

Many hazards can lead to an 18 wheeler accident in Laredo, Texas, but driver fatigue is one of the leading causes. Unfortunately, truck-driving companies are the main contributor to this issue. Commercial truck drivers usually lack adequate sleep due to a fatal combination of tight deadlines, many miles to cover, and irregular sleep schedules between shifts.

Sleep deprivation drastically affects awareness, reaction time, judgment, and coordination. Driving while sleep-deprived can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Twenty hours without sleep affects your mind and body equivalently to having a blood-alcohol concentration of .08 percent, the U.S. legal limit. Even mild or short-term sleep deprivation can cause severe impairment and have disastrous consequences. Less than five hours of sleep quadrupled a driver’s chances of crashing.

Other common reasons for truck accidents include:

• Speeding
• Reckless driving
• Distracted driving
• Texting while driving
• Driving under the influence
• Driver inexperience
• Inadequate training
• Limited maneuverability
• Larger blind spots
• Hazardous cargo
• Improper loading
• Improper vehicle maintenance
• Mechanical failure
• Bad road conditions
• Bad weather conditions

Semi-truck drivers have a massive responsibility to uphold when they get behind the wheel. Even the most minor mistake can have extreme repercussions. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has regulations to protect truck drivers and other people on the road. Trucking companies are required to keep records of their compliance with these rules. A Laredo semi-truck accident lawyer can investigate whether violations or negligent conduct caused your accident.

These laws require truck drivers to:

• Carry a commercial driver’s license (in the proper class)
• Follow the hours-of-service restrictions
• Pass drug and alcohol tests
• Maintain truck speed limits
• Maintain permitted truck weight and size
• Maintain proper truck maintenance, repairs, and inspections
• Properly load and secure cargo

Having professional representation will give you the peace of mind you deserve. An attorney will gather the necessary evidence, hold negligent parties accountable, negotiate with the insurance companies, and refuse to settle for anything less than fair compensation. Our client reviews demonstrate how we will support and fight for you throughout the process.

After thoroughly investigating your case, a lawyer will determine which damages you may be able to seek in your Laredo truck accident lawsuit.

This may include compensation for:

• Property damage
• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of quality of life
• Punitive damages

Are you stressed and confused? Let us handle the details so you can focus on healing and recovering. Our team has over 25 years of experience handling cases just like yours. We offer our services on a contingency fee, so you pay nothing unless your case is won. English and Spanish-speaking staff are available to assist you toll-free 24/7 at 800-862-1260.

For more information:

• Injury Facts
• Texas DoT
• NSC
• Sleep Foundation
• FMCSA