Truck accidents aren’t ordinary car crashes. They’re often catastrophic, involving complex laws, multiple parties, and aggressive insurance companies looking to protect their interests. Given Texas’s role as a major trucking hub with nearly 1 million jobs for truck drivers, our roads are frequently shared with large and heavy commercial vehicles. Unfortunately, this increases the likelihood of devastating accidents.
The trucking industry is governed by specific regulations, and it takes an experienced lawyer to hold negligent parties accountable. At Matulis Law Firm, we have the knowledge, resources, and determination to investigate your case and build a strong claim. Truck accidents aren’t just legal cases to us; they’re personal battles for justice.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Galveston County
Truck accidents are often caused by a combination of human error, mechanical failure, and systemic negligence. Common causes of these accidents include:
- Speeding: Truck drivers under pressure to meet deadlines may drive too fast, reducing their ability to stop in time.
- Driver Inattention: Texting, fatigue, and daydreaming behind the wheel can result in deadly consequences for truck drivers and others on the road.
- Unfamiliar Routes or Inexperienced Drivers: Trucking companies that fail to train drivers properly or pressure them to take unfamiliar routes put everyone at risk.
- Fatigue: Despite regulations, truckers may exceed allowed driving hours, leading to dangerous exhaustion.
- Following Too Closely: Large trucks need more time and space to stop. Tailgating often results in rear-end collisions.
- Improper Lane Changes and Blind Spot Accidents: Oversized vehicles have significant blind spots, making improper lane changes especially dangerous.
- Aggressive Driving: Erratic behaviors like tailgating, abrupt lane shifting, or speeding create hazardous conditions.
- Poor Maintenance and Equipment Failures: Brake failures, tire blowouts, and other maintenance issues often lead to serious accidents.
- Unsecured or Overloaded Cargo: Improperly secured freight can shift or spill, causing the driver to lose control or debris to strike other vehicles.
If any of these factors played a role in your accident, we’ll identify the responsible parties and establish the negligence that caused your injuries.
Who Is Liable in a Texas Truck Accident?
Determining liability in a truck accident can be complicated. Unlike typical car crashes, these cases often involve multiple parties, including:
- The Truck Driver: If the driver was speeding, texting, or otherwise negligent, we will hold them accountable.
- The Trucking Company: Employers can be liable for unsafe practices like overburdening drivers, inadequate training, or neglecting vehicle maintenance.
- The Manufacturer or Mechanic: If faulty parts or improper repairs led to the accident, liability may rest with those responsible for the truck’s upkeep.
Proving negligence often requires thorough investigation. At Matulis Law Firm, we dig deep, examining driver logbooks, trucking company records, maintenance schedules, inspection reports, and more to uncover the evidence needed for your case. We take this process seriously because your case is personal to us.
What to Do After a Truck Accident in Galveston County
Taking the right steps after a truck accident can protect both your health and your legal rights. Follow these guidelines:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, see a doctor. Some injuries take time to show symptoms, and medical records are crucial for your case.
- Report the Accident to the Police: A detailed police report can provide valuable evidence down the road.
- Document the Scene: Gather as much information as possible, including photos, witness statements, and the truck driver’s details.
- Contact Matulis Law Firm: Trucking companies and their insurers will start building their case immediately. You need an experienced attorney by your side to protect your interests.
Truck accidents often involve complex legal and insurance issues due to the involvement of commercial entities. Don't navigate this process alone. Contact Matulis Law Firm today for a free consultation and let us help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Compensation Available for Truck Accident Victims
Truck accidents often result in life-altering injuries or worse. Compensation can help relieve the financial burden and ensure justice is served. Depending on your case, you may recover damages for:
- Medical Expenses: This includes emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and future medical needs.
- Rehabilitation Costs: Whether it’s physical rehab or mental health support, these costs should be covered.
- Lost Wages and Diminished Earning Capacity: If you can’t work or your ability to earn is reduced, you deserve compensation for the income you’ve lost.
- Pain and Suffering: Injuries don’t just hurt physically. You may also be entitled to damages for emotional and psychological trauma.
- Property Damage: Compensation can cover the cost of repairs or replacement for your vehicle and other damaged property.
- Wrongful Death: If you’ve lost a loved one due to a truck accident, we can help you seek justice through a wrongful death claim.
Each case is unique, and we’ll work tirelessly to ensure you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to.
How Our Truck Accident Attorneys Can Help
Truck accident cases are more than just legal files to us. They’re about real people facing monumental challenges. Here’s how we help:
- Investigating the accident thoroughly to uncover crucial evidence.
- Navigating the multiple layers of liability and applicable laws.
- Dealing with trucking companies and aggressive insurance adjusters.
- Calculating your losses to demand fair compensation.
- Filing wrongful death claims with compassion if a loved one tragically passed away.
We’re here to lift the burden from your shoulders so you can focus on healing.
Dealing with Trucking Companies & Insurance After an Accident
Truck accidents often involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, and their insurers. These companies will act quickly to shift blame or minimize payouts. At Matulis Law Firm, we understand the tricks they use, and we’re skilled at navigating the maze of insurance policies. We’ll fight to maximize your compensation and protect your interests at every turn.
Texas Laws & Regulations for Commercial Truck Accidents
Commercial truck accidents can be devastating, often resulting in severe injuries and complex legal battles. Understanding the specific regulations governing the trucking industry in Texas is crucial for those seeking compensation after a collision. These regulations are designed to ensure safety on our roads, but when they are violated, they provide a powerful foundation for holding negligent parties accountable. At Matulis Law Firm, we are deeply familiar with these laws and are committed to using them to protect your rights.
Texas enforces strict regulations on the trucking industry, including:
- Commercial drivers must have a CDL and comply with hour-of-service restrictions.
- Employers are required to train and vet drivers thoroughly.
- Vehicles must meet weight limits and undergo regular maintenance checks.
- Truckers and companies must maintain minimum liability insurance.
Violations of these rules, such as exceeding driving hours or neglecting vehicle maintenance, can directly contribute to accidents. When such negligence occurs, it's essential to have legal representation that can effectively demonstrate these breaches and their impact on your case. We leverage these regulations to hold negligent parties accountable and secure the justice you deserve. By meticulously investigating each accident and thoroughly understanding the applicable laws, we strive to build a strong case that maximizes your chances of a favorable outcome. We are prepared to fight for your rights and ensure that those responsible for your injuries are held fully accountable.
Speak with a Galveston County Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At Matulis Law Firm, we understand that a truck accident can change your life in an instant. The injuries, financial challenges, and emotional pain are overwhelming, and the complexity of dealing with trucking companies and their insurers only adds to the stress. That’s why we’re here to provide compassionate, unwavering support and legal advocacy. Your case matters to us, and we take it personally. When you choose us, you gain a dedicated team committed to fighting for your rights and securing the justice and compensation you deserve.
At Matulis Law Firm, we know how life-changing a truck accident can be. That’s why we approach every case with compassion and dedication. Your case matters to us because you matter to us. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation, so we can hear your story and discuss your next steps. Together, we’ll work toward rebuilding your future.
