McAllen Commercial Truck Accident Attorneys and Getting Paid After an Accident

Commercial truck accidents are some of the most devastating collisions on the road, often leading to severe injuries, significant property damage, and emotional trauma. Navigating the legal complexities after a truck accident requires the expertise of McAllen commercial truck accident attorneys, who can help you get paid after an accident. This article explores common causes of truck accidents, the steps to take after a collision, and how the Law Office of Raul A. Guajardo can secure the compensation you deserve.

Why Commercial Truck Accidents Are More Complex

Truck accidents involve unique challenges compared to standard car accidents. Here’s why:

1. Larger Damages

Commercial trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, causing catastrophic injuries and extensive property damage. Compensation claims in these cases often involve larger amounts due to the severity of the damages.

2. Multiple Liable Parties

Liability in truck accidents can extend beyond the driver to include:

  • The trucking company.
  • The truck manufacturer (if defective parts are involved).
  • Cargo loaders (if improperly loaded cargo caused the accident).
  • Maintenance providers (if improper maintenance led to mechanical failure).

3. Federal Regulations

Trucking companies and drivers must comply with federal laws enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), including limits on driving hours and maintenance requirements. Violations can play a crucial role in proving negligence.

Learn more about FMCSA regulations at fmcsa.dot.gov.

Steps to Take After a Commercial Truck Accident

Taking the right steps after a truck accident is critical to protecting your rights and building a strong case.

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Prioritize your health and safety. Even if your injuries seem minor, see a doctor promptly to rule out hidden issues like internal bleeding or spinal damage. Medical records will also serve as evidence for your claim.

2. Document the Scene

Gather as much evidence as possible, including:

  • Photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
  • The truck’s license plate and company name.
  • Witness contact information.

3. File a Police Report

An official police report provides a critical account of the accident, including statements from the involved parties and witnesses.

4. Avoid Speaking With Insurance Adjusters

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by shifting blame or undervaluing claims. Consult an attorney before discussing the accident with any adjuster.

5. Contact a Commercial Truck Accident Attorney

Partnering with an experienced lawyer ensures your case is handled professionally, allowing you to focus on recovery.

How to Get Paid After a Truck Accident in McAllen

Recovering compensation after a truck accident involves navigating complex insurance policies, proving liability, and calculating damages. Here’s how a lawyer can help:

1. Identify the Liable Parties

Determining who is at fault often requires extensive investigation. Potentially liable parties include the truck driver, trucking company, or even a parts manufacturer.

2. File Insurance Claims

Trucking companies are required to carry substantial insurance coverage. Your lawyer will file claims against all applicable policies, including the truck driver’s liability insurance and the trucking company’s policy.

3. Prove Negligence

Establishing negligence is key to securing compensation. Evidence may include:

  • Driver logs to identify hours-of-service violations.
  • Maintenance records to uncover mechanical issues.
  • Black box data to reconstruct the accident.

4. Calculate Damages

Truck accidents often result in significant damages, including:

  • Economic Damages: Medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
  • Non-Economic Damages: Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
  • Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence, such as driving under the influence or reckless behavior.

5. Negotiate With Insurance Companies

Insurers often offer low settlements to save money. An experienced lawyer will counter these tactics and negotiate for the full value of your claim.

6. File a Lawsuit If Necessary

If settlement negotiations fail, your attorney can take your case to court to secure the compensation you deserve.

Why Work With McAllen Commercial Truck Accident Attorneys?

Truck accident cases require specialized legal expertise. Here’s how the Law Office of Raul A. Guajardo stands out:

1. Experience With Truck Accident Cases

With years of experience handling commercial truck accident claims, Raul A. Guajardo understands the unique challenges of these cases and how to overcome them.

2. Access to Resources

The firm works with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other specialists to build strong cases.

3. Proven Track Record

The Law Office of Raul A. Guajardo has recovered millions of dollars for clients in McAllen and throughout the Rio Grande Valley, demonstrating their ability to deliver results.

4. Client-Centered Approach

The team prioritizes personalized attention, ensuring you feel supported and informed throughout the process.

5. No Upfront Costs

The firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless they win your case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline may forfeit your right to compensation.

Can I Recover Compensation if I Was Partially at Fault?

Yes. Under Texas’s modified comparative fault rule, you can recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What If the Trucking Company Violated Federal Regulations?

Violations of FMCSA regulations can strengthen your case by demonstrating negligence. Your attorney will investigate and gather evidence of any violations.

Contact the Law Office of Raul A. Guajardo for Help

If you’ve been injured in a commercial truck accident, don’t face the legal challenges alone. The McAllen commercial truck accident attorneys at the Law Office of Raul A. Guajardo are here to fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

Call us today at (956) 318-3200 or visit our website to schedule a free consultation. Let us handle the complexities of your case so you can focus on recovery.