Tyler Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck Accident Attorney in Tyler, Texas
As award-winning Tyler truck accident lawyers, Roberts & Roberts has handled hundreds of complex truck accident cases. We focus our entire practice on personal injury litigation and we are dedicated to helping injured Tylerites secure the compensation they deserve.
What is a truck accident lawyer?
A truck accident lawyer is an attorney who specializes in accidents involving 18-wheelers, or “big rigs.” Lawyers who handle these cases, which are often informally referred to as “truck accident lawyers,” must have the resources, knowledge, and experience these cases require.
Why You Need a Specialist Tyler Truck Accident Lawyer?
Truck accidents often result in severe injuries and significant financial burdens. Unlike typical car accidents, truck accidents involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, and insurance providers.
This complexity requires the expertise of a lawyer who specializes in truck accident cases. Our team at Roberts & Roberts has the knowledge, experience, and resources to navigate the intricate legal landscape and fight for your rights.
Further Reading: Why are truck wrecks different from car wrecks?
Understanding 18-Wheeler Accidents in Tyler
Truck accidents in Texas are governed by both state and federal regulations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict guidelines for commercial vehicles, including 18-wheelers and big rigs. Violations of these regulations, such as driver fatigue, improper maintenance, and overloaded trucks, can lead to catastrophic accidents.
In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, building a strong case takes time, making it crucial to contact a truck accident lawyer in Tyler, Texas as soon as possible.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Tyler
Having handled hundreds of truck accident cases in Tyler, we have seen common causes of accidents involving 18 wheelers:
- Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to driver fatigue, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Use of mobile devices, eating, or other distractions can divert a driver’s attention from the road.
- Speeding: Excessive speed can make it difficult to control large trucks, leading to severe accidents.
- Improper Maintenance: Failure to maintain the truck properly can result in mechanical failures.
- Overloaded Trucks: Exceeding weight limits can cause tire blowouts and other dangerous situations.
Types of Truck Accident Injuries
18-wheeler accidents are uniquely dangerous. These commercial vehicles are heavy and harder to slow down, often resulting in serious injuries or death for occupants in other vehicles in an accident. Based on our experience, here are some of the most common injuries that happen in 18-wheeler wrecks in Tyler, Texas, cases:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These can have long-term effects on cognitive and physical abilities.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These may lead to partial or complete paralysis.
- Broken Bones: The impact of a truck collision can cause multiple fractures.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs can be life-threatening.
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries: These are common in rear-end collisions involving trucks.
What to Do After a Truck Accident in Tyler
If you or someone you know has been in an wreck with a large commercial truck, there are some immediate steps you should take to protect your legal rights:
Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Get a thorough medical evaluation at the emergency room, such as Hospitality Health ER in Tyler, even if you don’t feel injured immediately.
Call the Tyler Police: A crash report from the Tyler Police Department will document the accident, including liability (who was at fault), and provide essential information for your case.
Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to vehicles. Collect contact information from witnesses.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters: Do not provide statements or sign any documents without consulting your lawyer.
Contact a Tyler 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer: Legal representation is crucial for navigating the complexities of truck accident claims.
How Our Tyler Truck Accident Lawyers Can Help
At Roberts & Roberts, our team is committed to providing comprehensive legal services to help those injured by truck and 18-wheeler accidents in Tyler. Here’s how we can assist you:
- Investigating the Accident: We conduct thorough investigations to determine the cause of the accident and identify liable parties.
- Guiding Medical Care: We help ensure you are promptly and fully treated by some of the highest-rated physicians and medical facilities in Tyler.
- Gathering Evidence: Our team collects and preserves crucial evidence, such as black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records.
- Negotiating with Big Rig’s Insurance Companies: We handle all communications with insurance providers to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
- Filing a Lawsuit: If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court to secure the compensation you deserve.
- Providing Ongoing Support: We offer compassionate support and guidance throughout the legal process.
Compensation for Truck Accident Victims
People injured by truck accidents in Tyler may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for lost income due to the inability to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain and emotional distress.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for damage to your vehicle and other personal property.
- Wrongful Death: Compensation for families who have lost a loved one in a truck accident.
FAQs About Hiring a Truck Accident Lawyer
Q1: Why should I hire a truck accident lawyer instead of handling the case myself?
A1: Truck accident cases are complex and involve multiple parties. A specialized truck accident lawyer in Tyler has the expertise to navigate these complexities, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Q2: How much does it cost to hire an 18-wheeler accident lawyer?
A2: At Roberts & Roberts, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any legal fees unless we win your case. This allows you to access top-quality legal representation in Tyler without upfront costs.
Q3: What should I bring to my initial consultation with a truck accident lawyer?
A3: Bring any relevant documents, such as the police report, medical records, insurance information, and any correspondence with insurance companies. This will help us evaluate your case more effectively.
Q4: How long will it take to resolve my truck accident case?
A4: The duration of a truck accident case varies based on the complexity of the case and the willingness of insurance companies to settle. Some cases may be resolved in a few months, while others may take longer, especially if they go to trial.
Q5: What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
A5: Texas follows a comparative fault system, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. However, under Texas law, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Contact a Trusted Tyler Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in the Tyler area, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. Contact Roberts & Roberts today to schedule a free consultation with a skilled Tyler truck accident lawyer. We are here to provide the guidance and representation you need to secure the compensation you deserve.
How Common Are 18-Wheeler Accidents?
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, in 2023 alone, 620 people were killed were injured in crashes involving commercial vehicles. An additional 1,687 people had suspected severe injuries in these crashes, which the TxDOT defies as any injury that causes a person to be unable to continue activities they were capable of before the crash, such as walking and driving.
Semi-trucks and tractor-trailers pose a threat to other motorists on Texas highways because of their sheer size. When a tractor-trailer weighing up to 80,000 pounds collides with a passenger vehicle weighing only a few thousand pounds, the laws of physics favor the truck.
What Causes Texas Semi-Truck Accidents?
Every truck accident has its own specific set of contributing factors. That is why you should talk to a qualified 18-wheeler injury lawyer after a crash involving a large truck.
Several factors show up repeatedly in truck accident reports. Trucking companies often pressure drivers to meet unreasonable delivery deadlines by driving beyond the allowed number of hours per day. Drivers may be dangerously fatigued when an accident occurs.
Other common crash factors compiled by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration for accidents involving tractor-trailers, semis, semi-trailers, big rigs, and other 18-wheelers includes:
- Braking failure
- Traffic congestion
- Truck driver prescription drug use
- Truck driver aggressive driving
- Truck operator driving too fast for road condition
- Truck driver unfamiliarity with the road
- Road construction
- Truck driver’s failure to stop at a traffic signal, stop sign or crosswalk
- Inattention
Regardless of the reason, tractor-trailer accidents often cause serious or fatal injuries to occupants of other vehicles.
Further Reading: What is tail swing in regard to log trucks?
Who Is Responsible for My Truck Accident?
Truck accident cases are more likely than car accidents to have multiple individuals or parties at fault. Blame could possibly lie with:
- The truck driver. They’re obviously responsible for following the laws of the road and operating their truck in a safe, responsible manner. Distracted driving, reckless driving, and driving under the influence are common ways truck drivers can be responsible for your crash.
- The trucking company. They are responsible for the drivers they put on the road, including vetting and training them properly.
- An equipment manufacturer. They could be the at-fault party if tires, brakes, or other safety equipment catastrophically fails.
- A maintenance company. A mechanic or technician who does sloppy or insufficient work could be responsible if their negligence contributed to the wreck.
- A cargo loader. Improper loading of cargo can make a semi-truck significantly less stable and more prone to rolling over.
The fact that so many complex factors can be involved is a major reason why hiring an experienced semi-truck accident attorney is so crucial. If you don’t properly identify the responsible parties (and their insurance policies), you might be unable to obtain maximum compensation for your losses.
How Much Is My Truck Accident Claim Worth?
Personal injury victims are entitled to seek compensation for the damages they’ve suffered, including:
- Economic damages. This includes anything that can be calculated directly in dollars and cents, such as medical bills, lost wages, and reduced future earning capacity.
- Non-economic damages. This includes impacts that don’t have a precise dollar figure. Common examples include pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and loss of quality of life.
- Punitive damages. These are sometimes awarded if the at-fault party engaged in especially reckless, dangerous, or malicious behavior—a total disregard for their duty to care for others.
To cover the extensive damage caused by heavy tractor trailers, trucking companies are required to carry significant insurance policies. However, this also means they pay for high-priced attorneys who will fight your truck accident claim aggressively.
Damages for truck accidents are notoriously difficult to calculate, especially if you have severe injuries. This is where an experienced lawyer makes all the difference. The insurance company will likely try to devalue your personal injury claim and convince you to settle for less than you deserve. An experienced 18-wheeler injury lawyer – and one who knows how to withstand the fight – can help you accurately calculate damages and aggressively negotiate for fair compensation.
Additional Resources
About Tyler, Texas
History of Tyler
Founded in 1846, Tyler, Texas, is named after President John Tyler. The city has a rich history rooted in agriculture, particularly in the production of roses. Tyler is often referred to as the “Rose Capital of America” due to its prominent role in the rose-growing industry.
Over the years, Tyler has evolved into a vibrant community with a diverse economy that includes healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Tyler is conveniently located near Interstate 20, which makes 18-wheelers common on our roads.
Things to Do in Tyler
Tyler offers a wide range of activities and attractions for residents and visitors alike. The Tyler Rose Garden, one of the largest rose gardens in the United States, is a must-see. For nature enthusiasts, Tyler State Park provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping. The Caldwell Zoo is another popular destination, offering a chance to see a variety of animals from around the world. Additionally, Tyler’s historic downtown area features unique shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks.
Neighborhoods in Tyler
Tyler is home to several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm. We serve all of the neighborhoods in the greater Tyler area as well as the surrounding communities. The Azalea District is known for its historic homes and beautiful landscaping, often including Azaleas.
Other neighborhoods include the Cascades, Hollytree, downtown, midtown, and the South Tyler area. For those seeking a more suburban feel, South Tyler boasts modern amenities and excellent schools. Each neighborhood in Tyler provides a variety of living options to suit different lifestyles and preferences.
Our Office in Tyler, Texas
Our experienced truck accident lawyers in Tyler, Texas, office in the conveniently located and historic Simon Home (next to Bergfeld Park):
Roberts & Roberts Law Firm118 W 4th St
Tyler, TX 75701
(903) 568-6564
We are available to call 24/7.
Related Articles
Free & Confidential Consultation
"I am so happy to have chosen the best law firm around. The staff is amazing in handling your questions promptly. I hope I don't ever need them again, but if I do, there is no question I will be back. Thank y'all so much for helping me." - Heather N.
Why You Need a Specialist Tyler Truck Accident Lawyer?
Truck accidents often result in severe injuries and significant financial burdens. Unlike typical car accidents, truck accidents involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, and insurance providers.
This complexity requires the expertise of a lawyer who specializes in truck accident cases. Our team at Roberts & Roberts has the knowledge, experience, and resources to navigate the intricate legal landscape and fight for your rights.
Further Reading: Why are truck wrecks different from car wrecks?
Understanding 18-Wheeler Accidents in Tyler
Truck accidents in Texas are governed by both state and federal regulations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict guidelines for commercial vehicles, including 18-wheelers and big rigs. Violations of these regulations, such as driver fatigue, improper maintenance, and overloaded trucks, can lead to catastrophic accidents.
In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, building a strong case takes time, making it crucial to contact a truck accident lawyer in Tyler, Texas as soon as possible.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Tyler
Having handled hundreds of truck accident cases in Tyler, we have seen common causes of accidents involving 18 wheelers:
- Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to driver fatigue, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Use of mobile devices, eating, or other distractions can divert a driver’s attention from the road.
- Speeding: Excessive speed can make it difficult to control large trucks, leading to severe accidents.
- Improper Maintenance: Failure to maintain the truck properly can result in mechanical failures.
- Overloaded Trucks: Exceeding weight limits can cause tire blowouts and other dangerous situations.
Types of Truck Accident Injuries
18-wheeler accidents are uniquely dangerous. These commercial vehicles are heavy and harder to slow down, often resulting in serious injuries or death for occupants in other vehicles in an accident. Based on our experience, here are some of the most common injuries that happen in 18-wheeler wrecks in Tyler, Texas, cases:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These can have long-term effects on cognitive and physical abilities.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These may lead to partial or complete paralysis.
- Broken Bones: The impact of a truck collision can cause multiple fractures.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs can be life-threatening.
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries: These are common in rear-end collisions involving trucks.
What to Do After a Truck Accident in Tyler
If you or someone you know has been in an wreck with a large commercial truck, there are some immediate steps you should take to protect your legal rights:
Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Get a thorough medical evaluation at the emergency room, such as Hospitality Health ER in Tyler, even if you don’t feel injured immediately.
Call the Tyler Police: A crash report from the Tyler Police Department will document the accident, including liability (who was at fault), and provide essential information for your case.
Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to vehicles. Collect contact information from witnesses.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters: Do not provide statements or sign any documents without consulting your lawyer.
Contact a Tyler 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer: Legal representation is crucial for navigating the complexities of truck accident claims.
How Our Tyler Truck Accident Lawyers Can Help
At Roberts & Roberts, our team is committed to providing comprehensive legal services to help those injured by truck and 18-wheeler accidents in Tyler. Here’s how we can assist you:
- Investigating the Accident: We conduct thorough investigations to determine the cause of the accident and identify liable parties.
- Guiding Medical Care: We help ensure you are promptly and fully treated by some of the highest-rated physicians and medical facilities in Tyler.
- Gathering Evidence: Our team collects and preserves crucial evidence, such as black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records.
- Negotiating with Big Rig’s Insurance Companies: We handle all communications with insurance providers to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
- Filing a Lawsuit: If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court to secure the compensation you deserve.
- Providing Ongoing Support: We offer compassionate support and guidance throughout the legal process.
Compensation for Truck Accident Victims
People injured by truck accidents in Tyler may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for lost income due to the inability to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain and emotional distress.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for damage to your vehicle and other personal property.
- Wrongful Death: Compensation for families who have lost a loved one in a truck accident.
FAQs About Hiring a Truck Accident Lawyer
Q1: Why should I hire a truck accident lawyer instead of handling the case myself?
A1: Truck accident cases are complex and involve multiple parties. A specialized truck accident lawyer in Tyler has the expertise to navigate these complexities, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Q2: How much does it cost to hire an 18-wheeler accident lawyer?
A2: At Roberts & Roberts, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any legal fees unless we win your case. This allows you to access top-quality legal representation in Tyler without upfront costs.
Q3: What should I bring to my initial consultation with a truck accident lawyer?
A3: Bring any relevant documents, such as the police report, medical records, insurance information, and any correspondence with insurance companies. This will help us evaluate your case more effectively.
Q4: How long will it take to resolve my truck accident case?
A4: The duration of a truck accident case varies based on the complexity of the case and the willingness of insurance companies to settle. Some cases may be resolved in a few months, while others may take longer, especially if they go to trial.
Q5: What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
A5: Texas follows a comparative fault system, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. However, under Texas law, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Contact a Trusted Tyler Truck Accident Lawyer Today
How Common Are 18-Wheeler Accidents?
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, in 2023 alone, 620 people were killed were injured in crashes involving commercial vehicles. An additional 1,687 people had suspected severe injuries in these crashes, which the TxDOT defies as any injury that causes a person to be unable to continue activities they were capable of before the crash, such as walking and driving.
Semi-trucks and tractor-trailers pose a threat to other motorists on Texas highways because of their sheer size. When a tractor-trailer weighing up to 80,000 pounds collides with a passenger vehicle weighing only a few thousand pounds, the laws of physics favor the truck.
What Causes Texas Semi-Truck Accidents?
Every truck accident has its own specific set of contributing factors. That is why you should talk to a qualified 18-wheeler injury lawyer after a crash involving a large truck.
Several factors show up repeatedly in truck accident reports. Trucking companies often pressure drivers to meet unreasonable delivery deadlines by driving beyond the allowed number of hours per day. Drivers may be dangerously fatigued when an accident occurs.
Other common crash factors compiled by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration for accidents involving tractor-trailers, semis, semi-trailers, big rigs, and other 18-wheelers includes:
- Braking failure
- Traffic congestion
- Truck driver prescription drug use
- Truck driver aggressive driving
- Truck operator driving too fast for road condition
- Truck driver unfamiliarity with the road
- Road construction
- Truck driver’s failure to stop at a traffic signal, stop sign or crosswalk
- Inattention
Regardless of the reason, tractor-trailer accidents often cause serious or fatal injuries to occupants of other vehicles.
Further Reading: What is tail swing in regard to log trucks?
Who Is Responsible for My Truck Accident?
Truck accident cases are more likely than car accidents to have multiple individuals or parties at fault. Blame could possibly lie with:
- The truck driver. They’re obviously responsible for following the laws of the road and operating their truck in a safe, responsible manner. Distracted driving, reckless driving, and driving under the influence are common ways truck drivers can be responsible for your crash.
- The trucking company. They are responsible for the drivers they put on the road, including vetting and training them properly.
- An equipment manufacturer. They could be the at-fault party if tires, brakes, or other safety equipment catastrophically fails.
- A maintenance company. A mechanic or technician who does sloppy or insufficient work could be responsible if their negligence contributed to the wreck.
- A cargo loader. Improper loading of cargo can make a semi-truck significantly less stable and more prone to rolling over.
The fact that so many complex factors can be involved is a major reason why hiring an experienced semi-truck accident attorney is so crucial. If you don’t properly identify the responsible parties (and their insurance policies), you might be unable to obtain maximum compensation for your losses.
How Much Is My Truck Accident Claim Worth?
Personal injury victims are entitled to seek compensation for the damages they’ve suffered, including:
- Economic damages. This includes anything that can be calculated directly in dollars and cents, such as medical bills, lost wages, and reduced future earning capacity.
- Non-economic damages. This includes impacts that don’t have a precise dollar figure. Common examples include pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and loss of quality of life.
- Punitive damages. These are sometimes awarded if the at-fault party engaged in especially reckless, dangerous, or malicious behavior—a total disregard for their duty to care for others.
To cover the extensive damage caused by heavy tractor trailers, trucking companies are required to carry significant insurance policies. However, this also means they pay for high-priced attorneys who will fight your truck accident claim aggressively.
Damages for truck accidents are notoriously difficult to calculate, especially if you have severe injuries. This is where an experienced lawyer makes all the difference. The insurance company will likely try to devalue your personal injury claim and convince you to settle for less than you deserve. An experienced 18-wheeler injury lawyer – and one who knows how to withstand the fight – can help you accurately calculate damages and aggressively negotiate for fair compensation.
Additional Resources
About Tyler, Texas
History of Tyler
Founded in 1846, Tyler, Texas, is named after President John Tyler. The city has a rich history rooted in agriculture, particularly in the production of roses. Tyler is often referred to as the “Rose Capital of America” due to its prominent role in the rose-growing industry.
Over the years, Tyler has evolved into a vibrant community with a diverse economy that includes healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Tyler is conveniently located near Interstate 20, which makes 18-wheelers common on our roads.
Things to Do in Tyler
Tyler offers a wide range of activities and attractions for residents and visitors alike. The Tyler Rose Garden, one of the largest rose gardens in the United States, is a must-see. For nature enthusiasts, Tyler State Park provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping. The Caldwell Zoo is another popular destination, offering a chance to see a variety of animals from around the world. Additionally, Tyler’s historic downtown area features unique shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks.
Neighborhoods in Tyler
Tyler is home to several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm. We serve all of the neighborhoods in the greater Tyler area as well as the surrounding communities. The Azalea District is known for its historic homes and beautiful landscaping, often including Azaleas.
Other neighborhoods include the Cascades, Hollytree, downtown, midtown, and the South Tyler area. For those seeking a more suburban feel, South Tyler boasts modern amenities and excellent schools. Each neighborhood in Tyler provides a variety of living options to suit different lifestyles and preferences.
Our Office in Tyler, Texas
Our experienced truck accident lawyers in Tyler, Texas, office in the conveniently located and historic Simon Home (next to Bergfeld Park):
Roberts & Roberts Law Firm118 W 4th St
Tyler, TX 75701
(903) 568-6564
We are available to call 24/7.