Trucking Accidents in San Angelo: Understanding Liability

Truck accidents are among the most devastating types of road collisions, often leading to severe injuries, significant property damage, and complicated legal claims. If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident in San Angelo or West Texas, understanding liability is critical for pursuing your damages. This guide will help you navigate the complexities of trucking accident liability, covering who can be held accountable, the laws governing these cases, and the steps to take after an accident.

Overview of Trucking Accidents in San Angelo

Why Trucking Accidents Are Different from Other Road Accidents

Trucking accidents differ significantly from regular car crashes due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. These vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, causing greater damage and more severe injuries in collisions.Unlike typical auto accidents, trucking collisions often involve multiple parties, from drivers to companies, and are regulated by strict state and federal laws. This makes determining liability far more complex.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents

Trucking accidents often occur due to preventable factors, including:

• Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers are required to follow limits on driving hours, but some exceed these to meet deadlines.
• Distracted Driving: Activities like texting or using GPS can divert attention from the road.
• Mechanical Failures: Poor maintenance or skipping inspections often leads to accidents.
• Improperly Loaded Cargo: Unsecured or overloaded cargo can cause rollovers or spills.
• Adverse Weather: Trucks are harder to control on wet or icy roads, increasing the risk of accidents.

Determining Liability in Trucking Accidents

Parties That May Be Held Liable

Trucking accidents often involve multiple parties, and liability can extend beyond the driver. Key parties include:

• Truck Drivers: Negligence such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence can make the driver liable. Violations of hours-of-service rules are also significant factors.
• Trucking Companies: Employers may be liable for negligent hiring, inadequate training, or poor vehicle maintenance. Companies are also responsible for drivers’ actions under the “respondeat superior” principle.
• Third Parties: Cargo loaders, manufacturers, or maintenance providers may share liability if issues like improper loading or faulty parts contributed to the crash.

Evidence Used to Establish Liability

To build a strong case, the following evidence is often critical:

• Driver Logs and Black Box Data: These reveal driving hours, speeds, and other details leading to the accident.
• Maintenance Records: Documentation of inspections and repairs can highlight neglect.
• Witness Testimonies: First-hand accounts from witnesses can help reconstruct events.
• Accident Reconstruction Reports: Expert analyses can determine fault based on crash dynamics.

State and Federal Laws Governing Trucking Liability

Texas-Specific Laws Impacting Liability

In 2021, Texas passed House Bill 19, introducing changes to how trucking accident claims are handled. Key provisions include:

• Bifurcated Trials: Trials may be split into two phases. The first establishes whether the truck driver was negligent. Second, if bifurcated, the jury would examine the company’s liability.
• Limits on Evidence: Plaintiffs may be restricted from presenting evidence about a company’s past safety violations, making it harder to establish patterns of negligence.

Federal Regulations and FMCSA Compliance

Trucking companies and drivers are also subject to regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), including:

• Hours of Service: Limits on driving hours reduce fatigue-related accidents.
• Vehicle Maintenance: Regular inspections are mandatory to ensure safety.
• Driver Qualifications: Specific licensing and training requirements aim to ensure drivers are competent.

Failure to comply with these regulations often serves as evidence of negligence.

Steps to Take After a Trucking Accident

Immediate Actions

If you’re involved in a trucking accident, taking these steps can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Always prioritize your health. Even minor injuries should be documented.
2. Call the Police: File an official report to ensure the details of the accident are recorded.
3. Gather Evidence: Take photos of the scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries.

Preserving Evidence for Your Claim

Trucking companies often attempt to destroy or alter critical evidence, such as black box data or maintenance logs. To prevent this, consult an attorney who can issue a preservation letter, legally requiring the company to retain relevant records.

Consulting a San Angelo Trucking Accident Lawyer

A lawyer with experience in Texas trucking laws can:

• Identify all liable parties.
• Handle negotiations with insurance companies.
• Ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Common Challenges in Trucking Accident Claims

Dealing with Large Insurance Companies

Insurance companies for trucking firms often deploy tactics to minimize payouts, such as:

• Offering lowball settlements shortly after the accident.
• Disputing liability by shifting blame to the victim.
• Delaying the claims process to discourage victims from pursuing compensation.

Proving Negligence Under Complex Laws

House Bill 19 has made proving negligence more challenging. Plaintiffs must now clear additional legal hurdles, including limited evidence against trucking companies, highlighting the importance of skilled legal representation.

FAQs About Trucking Accidents in San Angelo

• Who is liable for a trucking accident in Texas? Liability depends on the circumstances and may include the driver, trucking company, or third parties like cargo loaders or manufacturers.
• How do federal trucking regulations impact liability?
  • Violations of FMCSA regulations, such as exceeding hours-of-service limits, often establish negligence.
• What should I do if the trucking company denies responsibility?
  • Consult an attorney to gather evidence and challenge their claims.
• Can I sue the trucking company directly for an accident?
  • Yes, if the company is found negligent in hiring, training, or maintaining its vehicles.
• What is the role of House Bill 19 in trucking accident cases?
  • House Bill 19 introduced bifurcated trials and restrictions on evidence, making liability claims more complex.

Conclusion

Trucking accidents in San Angelo are legally complex, involving multiple parties and a web of state and federal regulations. If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident in San Angelo, it’s crucial to act promptly to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. At Webb, Stokes & Sparks, our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to providing compassionate and skilled representation tailored to your unique situation. With over 160 years of combined experience, our team has the knowledge and capability to effectively and efficiently defend your case. We offer no-obligation consultations to discuss your case and outline your legal options.

Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice.