Tyler, TX Truck Accident Lawyer
Experienced East Texas truck accident lawyers who fight for crash victims
Collisions involving semi‑trucks and other large commercial vehicles are among the deadliest collisions on Texas roads. A fully loaded tractor‑trailer can weigh 80,000 pounds; when it collides with a passenger car weighing around 3,000 pounds, the outcome is often devastating. Victims may suffer catastrophic injuries or lose their lives, leaving families scrambling to pay medical bills and cover lost income.
Trucking companies and their insurance providers have powerful legal teams to protect their interests. To level the playing field, you need a lawyer who understands both Texas law and federal trucking regulations.
Weinstein Law has extensive experience handling truck accident cases in Tyler. and across East Texas. We know how to investigate these crashes and hold negligent drivers and companies accountable. If you or a loved one was injured in a crash with a big rig, contact us to set up your free, no-obligation consultation.
"I feel great. I should have used you from the beginning. Everyone I dealt with was great. I would recommend Weinstein Law based on how well Jeff was at explaining how everything worked. How he cut to the chase and was straight forward." – Jacob, ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
FAQs About Truck Accidents in Tyler, TX
- How do truck accidents differ from car accidents?
- What are common types of truck accidents in Tyler?
- What causes truck accidents in Tyler, TX?
- What regulations govern the trucking industry?
- What types of injuries happen in truck accidents?
- Who is responsible for a truck accident in Tyler, TX?
- What should I do after a truck crash in Tyler, TX?
- What damages can I get compensation for after a truck accident?
- What if I lost a loved one in a truck accident?
- How long do I have to file a truck accident lawsuit in Texas?
- How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer?
How do truck accidents differ from car accidents?
Truck accidents are very different from regular car crashes because of the size, weight, and regulations involved. Semi-trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, so even a low-speed collision often causes catastrophic injuries compared to a car accident. These cases also tend to involve more complicated insurance issues since trucking companies usually carry multi-million-dollar policies.
Federal and state safety regulations apply to truck drivers and trucking companies, covering everything from hours of service to vehicle maintenance. That means evidence like electronic logging device (ELD) data, black box information, and inspection or maintenance records can play a critical role. Liability may also extend beyond the driver to the trucking company, the truck’s owner, the maintenance contractor, or even the manufacturer if faulty parts were involved.
For these reasons, truck accident cases are more complicated, require extensive investigation, and demand legal strategies that go beyond a typical car accident claim. Weinstein Law knows how to stand up against trucking companies and build strong cases for clients across East Texas.
What are common types of truck accidents in Tyler?
Trucks come in many shapes and sizes, and each type of collision presents unique challenges. Some of the most common truck accidents include:
- Jackknife accidents: This occurs when the trailer swings out from behind the cab, forming a 90-degree angle. The trailer can sweep across multiple lanes, hitting other vehicles.
- Rollover accidents: Due to their high center of gravity, trucks are prone to tipping over during sharp turns, evasive maneuvers or when driving with improperly secured loads.
- Underride collisions: These occur when a car slides under the rear or side of a tractor-trailer. Underride crashes often result in fatal head or neck injuries for occupants of the smaller vehicle.
- Blind-spot accidents: Commercial trucks have large blind spots on all sides. If a truck driver fails to check these areas before changing lanes or turning, they may collide with a vehicle in their blind spot.
- Wide-turn accidents: Trucks need extra space to make right turns. If a driver swings wide and doesn’t check for traffic next to the trailer, they can strike vehicles traveling in adjacent lanes.
- Brake failure or runaway trailer accidents: Mechanical failure or inadequate maintenance can lead to loss of braking power. A runaway truck may barrel down an incline uncontrollably, endangering everyone in its path.
- Lost load accidents: Improperly secured cargo can fall off a truck, creating obstacles on the road or causing the trailer to sway and overturn. Cargo loaders and trucking companies can be liable for failing to secure loads properly.
What causes truck accidents in Tyler, TX?
While every crash is unique, patterns often emerge when investigating truck accidents. Common causes include:
- Driver fatigue: Long hours behind the wheel lead to drowsiness and slower reaction times. Federal hours-of-service rules limit drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, and they must take a 30-minute break after eight hours. Violations of these rules contribute to many crashes.
- Distracted driving: Truck drivers may text, eat, adjust GPS units or talk on CB radios while driving. Taking eyes off the road for even a few seconds can cause a collision.
- Speeding and aggressive driving: Tight delivery deadlines can pressure drivers to speed or make unsafe maneuvers. Speed reduces the driver’s ability to stop in time and increases the force of impact.
- Impaired driving: Alcohol, drugs and certain medications impair judgment and coordination. Although federal regulations prohibit commercial drivers from operating with a blood alcohol content above 0.04, impaired driving still happens.
- Poor maintenance: Trucks log thousands of miles each week. Regular maintenance is critical to ensure brakes, tires, lights and other components work properly. A blown tire or brake failure can cause a serious crash.
- Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo: Cargo shifts can throw a truck off balance. Overloaded trucks or loads that exceed weight limits are more difficult to stop and control. Those responsible for loading must follow strict procedures to secure cargo.
- Inexperienced or untrained drivers: Commercial driving requires special licenses and training. Companies that fail to vet and train drivers properly can be liable for negligent hiring or supervision.
Identifying the cause of a truck accident often means examining logbooks, employment records, maintenance logs and the truck’s electronic data recorder. Our firm knows what evidence to look for and how to obtain it.
What regulations govern the trucking industry?
Truck drivers and motor carriers operate under both federal and state regulations designed to promote safety. Key rules include:
- Hours of Service (HOS): This limits drivers to 14 consecutive hours on duty, of which only 11 hours may be spent driving. Drivers must then have at least 10 consecutive hours off duty. After 8 hours of driving, they must take a 30-minute break. Weekly limits restrict drivers to 60 hours on duty over seven days or 70 hours over eight days. There are exceptions for adverse driving conditions and short-haul operations.
- Drug and alcohol testing. Commercial drivers must undergo pre-employment, random and post-accident drug and alcohol tests. A driver who tests positive may be removed from duty.
- Vehicle maintenance and inspection. Carriers must systematically inspect, repair and maintain their vehicles. Drivers must complete pre-trip and post-trip inspections and note any defects. Failing to correct mechanical issues can lead to liability if a crash occurs.
- Weight and size limits. Federal and state laws impose maximum weight limits for trucks. Overweight vehicles are harder to control and require longer stopping distances. Carriers that overload their trucks can face fines and civil liability.
- Licensing and training. Drivers must hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) appropriate for the class of vehicle they operate. Companies must ensure drivers are qualified and provide training on safe driving practices.
When trucking companies or drivers break these rules, they put everyone on the road at risk. A Tyler truck accident lawyer at Weinstein Law can review logbooks, inspection reports and company policies to find violations.
What types of injuries happen in truck accidents?
Because of the massive difference in size and weight between trucks and passenger vehicles, injuries in truck accidents are often severe. Victims may suffer:
- Traumatic brain injuries: TBIs can cause permanent cognitive deficits, memory problems, personality changes and require lifelong care.
- Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis. Rehabilitation and adaptive equipment can cost millions of dollars over a lifetime.
- Amputations: Crushing injuries can necessitate amputation of limbs. Prosthetics and long-term physical therapy are often needed.
- Severe burns: Fuel spills and fires can cause third-degree burns that require skin grafts and extensive medical treatment.
- Internal organ damage: Blunt force trauma can rupture organs, cause internal bleeding or lead to organ failure.
- Wrongful death: Families of those killed in truck accidents can pursue a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of income and emotional suffering.
Who is responsible for a truck accident in Tyler, TX?
Multiple parties may share liability in a truck accident, including the driver, the trucking company, the company that loaded the cargo, maintenance contractors and even the manufacturer of a defective part. To determine who is responsible, we look at:
- Driver negligence: Did the driver violate HOS regulations, speed, drive while distracted or impaired, or ignore weather conditions? We examine logbooks, phone records and dashcam footage.
- Company policies and training: Did the carrier encourage unrealistic delivery schedules that encourage speeding or skipping rest breaks? Did they properly vet and train the driver? Company records and testimony can reveal negligent practices.
- Vehicle maintenance: Were the brakes, tires and other components inspected and repaired according to regulations? Maintenance logs may show a pattern of neglect.
- Cargo loading: Was the load properly balanced and secured? Overloading or shifting cargo can cause loss of control. Bills of lading and loading procedures help determine if loaders were negligent.
- Third-party liability: Sometimes a defective part or hazardous road condition contributes to a crash. Manufacturers and government entities may be partially responsible.
Preserving evidence is key to building a solid truck accident case. Weinstein Law can send spoliation letters to prevent destruction of logbooks, electronic data and vehicle components. We work quickly to inspect the truck, trailer and crash scene before evidence disappears.
What should I do after a truck crash in Tyler, TX?
The immediate aftermath of a truck accident can be chaotic. Taking the right steps can protect your health and your legal rights:
- Call 911: Report the crash and request police and medical assistance. Given the severity of truck crashes, emergency responders will likely respond quickly.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you think your injuries are minor, get checked out. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away.
- Gather information: Obtain the truck driver’s name, employer, license number, insurance information and the USDOT number from the cab. Get names and contact information of witnesses.
- Document the truck accident scene: Take photos of the truck, your vehicle, road conditions, skid marks, any visible injuries and the surrounding area. If you notice anything unusual (e.g., worn tires or unsecured cargo), make a note or photograph it.
- Never sign anything from the trucking company: Representatives may arrive quickly with documents. Don’t sign any releases or waivers without talking to a lawyer first.
- Speak to a Tyler truck accident lawyer: Trucking companies and their insurance providers move fast to protect themselves. You need legal representation just as quickly to preserve evidence and begin building your case.
What damages can I get compensation for after a truck accident?
Because truck accidents often cause catastrophic injuries, the damages available in a truck accident claim can be substantial. You may be entitled to:
- Medical expenses: Emergency treatment, surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, medications, home modifications and long-term care. Some injuries require care for the rest of a victim’s life.
- Lost wages and future earning capacity: Serious injuries can prevent you from returning to your previous job or working at all. We work with vocational experts to calculate your lost earning potential.
- Pain and suffering: The physical pain and emotional trauma after a truck crash can be profound. Compensation should reflect the full extent of your suffering.
- Property damage: Your vehicle and any personal property damaged in the crash can be repaired or replaced.
Our goal is to recover every dollar you deserve so you can rebuild your life after a catastrophic truck accident.
What if I lost a loved one in a truck accident?
Losing a loved one in a truck accident is devastating, and families often face overwhelming financial and emotional challenges. In Texas, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim to pursue compensation for funeral expenses, medical bills, lost financial support, and the pain of losing a family member’s care and companionship.
While no amount of money can replace your loved one, holding negligent parties accountable can provide financial security and a sense of justice. Attorney Jeff Weinstein can guide you through the process with compassion and determination.
How long do I have to file a truck accident lawsuit in Texas?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for truck accident lawsuits is generally two years from the date of the crash. This means you must file your lawsuit within that time, or you may lose the right to pursue compensation. While two years may sound like plenty of time, evidence in truck accident cases can disappear quickly.
For example, trucking companies are only required to keep certain records for a limited period, sometimes as short as six months. Electronic logging device data and black box information may also be overwritten or lost if not preserved promptly. Waiting too long could severely weaken your ability to recover damages.
How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer?
Weinstein Law works on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay any money upfront for legal services. Instead, the attorney’s fee is a percentage of the settlement or verdict recovered on your behalf. If we don’t win your case, you owe nothing for our time. This arrangement allows injured victims and families to pursue justice without worrying about the high cost of hourly fees.
Level the playing field against big trucking companies
If you or a loved one was injured in a truck accident in East Texas, the odds are not stacked in your favor. Trucking companies have teams of lawyers ready to defend them after a crash. You deserve someone just as committed on your side, and someone you can actually reach when you need answers. Jeff Weinstein doesn’t hide behind case managers. He’ll be the one picking up the phone when you call.
Jeff has stood up for countless people hurt in collisions with 18-wheelers across East Texas. He knows the local roads, understands federal trucking laws, and won’t back down against big trucking companies and their insurance providers. To begin fighting back, contact us online or call to schedule a free consultation with a Tyler truck accident lawyer.