Semi-truck accidents are an all too common occurrence on Texas roads. In 2023 there were over 400 fatal accidents involving semi-trucks.
If you are struggling in the aftermath of a semi-truck collision, you know the stress that comes with navigating physical pain, car repairs, medical bills, and insurance.
At Shaw Cowart LLP, our experienced car accident attorneys understand your circumstances. We know how difficult it is to recover after injuries from a collision. If you or a loved one have been hurt or had your car totaled in an accident, we can help. Contact our office today for a free and confidential case evaluation.
Federal Requirements
Although there are many causes of semi-truck accidents, violations of federal safety requirements are an all too common contributing factor. Semi-trucks are heavily regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Trucking companies, and their drivers, are required to follow safety protocols related to truck inspection, maintenance, and repairs. Compliance with these regulations includes keeping detailed records.
Regular inspections must be completed by those qualified to catch any deficiencies in a truck’s brakes, tires, lights, or other vehicle functions. Trucks that are not up to code must be promptly repaired. Companies are also required to keep records of these inspections to ensure defective trucks are not on the roads.
Some of the most common problems federal regulations are designed to protect against include:
- Brake failure
- Tire blowouts
- Engine or transmission issues
- Steering defects
Proving Negligent Maintenance
Despite extensive regulations, some trucks are negligently maintained, causing unnecessary hazards and resulting in injuries from preventable collisions. Of course, trucking companies will not readily admit that their negligence in inspecting, repairing, or maintaining their semi-trucks resulted in your injuries.
This is why it is crucial to hire an attorney after being injured in a semi-truck accident. An experienced attorney will be able to investigate your case to determine whether negligent truck maintenance was a cause of your injuries.
Because each case is unique, attorneys take the time to understand the facts of your circumstance. This investigatory process includes assessing relevant evidence which may include:
- Evaluating police reports
- Interviewing witnesses
- Reviewing dash cam footage
- Inspecting the truck involved in your accident
- Reviewing records kept by the trucking company to determine whether they comply with applicable federal regulations.
- Assessing your vehicle damage
- Understanding injuries you sustained
Injured by Negligent Semi-Truck Maintenance? Call Shaw Cowart
Semi-trucks are heavily regulated by the government for good reason. Companies who fail to properly maintain their vehicles create hazards on the road and should be held liable for their negligence.
Injured parties are intimately familiar with the pain and suffering that accompanies losses sustained because of negligent maintenance of semi-trucks.
If you or a loved one were injured by a trucking company’s failure to properly maintain their vehicle, you are in the midst of navigating the stress, and uncertainty that comes with injury.
Don’t face this loss alone. The attorneys at Shaw Cowart LLP routinely handle claims related to negligent maintenance of semi-trucks. We can help investigate your claim, discuss your legal options, and advocate for your full and fair compensation by negotiating with insurance.
Contact our office today to schedule a free and confidential appointment to evaluate your claim.