Liability in Houston Trucking AccidentsÂ
You cannot drive on a Houston roadway without seeing large semi-trucks and tractor-trailers. Commercial trucks are everywhere, with drivers expected to haul goods across the country. Federal law regulates truck drivers and their employers. Any violation of these regulations can result in serious harm to the truck operator and other people on the road.
If you are injured in a trucking accident, you need to speak with an attorney. At Bailey Cowan Heckaman, we represent individuals who have been seriously injured as a result of trucking violations in Houston, TX. Our lawyers will help you navigate the legal process and work to ensure you receive the recovery you deserve. Were you injured in a trucking accident? Contact our office at (888) 367-7160 to schedule a free consultation.
Common Trucking Violations that Affect Personal Injury Cases
In an effort to reduce costs, many trucking companies attempt to cut corners. In some cases, cutting corners means a violation of federal trucking regulations, including those issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
FMCSA trucking violations that may impact liability in a personal injury case:
- Hours of service violations - The FMCSA limits the number of hours that truck operators can drive or remain on duty. Drivers who exceed these hours are prone to fatigue or falling asleep. Fatigued driving is a leading cause of serious injuries or even death in Houston trucking accidents.
- Lack of routine maintenance - Another common trucking violation is a failure to conduct routine maintenance and repairs. Complying with maintenance regulations helps to ensure that commercial trucks are in good working order, reducing the potential for mechanical failures.
- Inadequate training - Federal law requires truck operators to be adequately licensed and trained. Insufficient training can result in severe accidents. In the majority of truck accident cases, it is an occupant of another vehicle that is injured or killed.
- Cargo loading and transportation violations - Commercial trucks are often required to transport hazardous goods. Even if their cargo is not hazardous, it can still be dangerous if not loaded properly. Shifting cargo can throw off a truck's center of gravity, making it prone to jackknifing or overturning. When a trucking company or another party fails to properly load the cargo, they may be held liable for any resulting harm.
If you are injured in an accident with a semi-truck or tractor-trailer, it is strongly recommended that you speak to one of our Houston truck accident lawyers. Our lawyers have extensive experience representing clients who have been hurt in truck accidents throughout Houston. We offer free, no-obligation consultations.
Injured in a Houston Truck Accident? Contact Our Office.Â
Were you or a loved one injured in a Houston truck accident? Contact our office at (888) 367-7160 to schedule a free case consultation. Our lawyers will work with you to determine the best course of legal action. There is no cost for speaking with our legal team, and there are no fees unless we win. Call now to speak directly with a truck accident lawyer in Houston, TX.
