Injuries resulting from accidents involving tractor-trailers have been increasing in number. Large truck accidents with injuries reached 88,000 in 2011, according to the National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration (NHTSA). The next year, the number of such accidents increased to 104,000, an increase of 18 percent. Unfortunately, many of these wrecks are the result of negligence.
For 2012, NHTSA reported 543 fatalities on the roads of Texas in accidents that involved large trucks. More people died in Texas accidents involving large trucks that year than in any other state. A total of 4,607 large truck accidents with injuries were also reported for that year. Serious injuries and fatalities are common when 80,000-pound big rigs collide with cars, pick ups and SUVs that weigh 5,000 pounds or less.
Negligence Often Leads to
Trucking Accident Lawsuits
Many times large truck collisions are caused by negligence on the part of the truck driver, including:
- Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Fatigued driving, including falling asleep at the wheel
- Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
- Aggressive driving, including acts of road rage
- Eating, texting or engaging in other activities while driving
On occasion, the conduct of the trucking company comes under scrutiny. Ways in which the trucking company can be negligent include:
- Setting unrealistic delivery times that may undermine safe driving habits
- Delaying parts replacements, including tires, and key suspension parts
- Postponement of critical vehicle inspections
- Pushing drivers to drive longer than federal regulations permit
Also, there are third parties who may be liable in trucking accident lawsuits in Texas because of their negligent conduct. This may include:
- Providing insufficient maintenance
- Manufacturing defective brake part or other critical truck components
- Installing deficient computer systems in big rigs
Seeking Recovery
Whatever the source of negligent conduct may be, Texas state law provides that a person injured by the negligence of another can seek compensation for their injuries and damages. Trucking accident lawsuits may be filed alleging negligent behavior contributed to injury or even death. Injured persons may seek compensation for things like medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and, in the case of fatalities, loss of companionship and other damages.
Given the complexity of tractor-trailer accidents, it is wise to seek legal counsel. An attorney that is involved in filing trucking accident lawsuits may be able to identify the areas of possible negligence that may be claimed in litigation.
Injured in an Accident with a Tractor-Trailer? Call Us Today.
At the Texas Attorney Injury Group, we invite you to ask questions about a semi truck or other accident you or a family member may have been involved in. If you have a claim, we can arrange for you to consult with one of our affiliated attorneys. Your consultation is free and you are under no obligation.
