It is not difficult to understand exactly how dangerous truck accidents can be. These massive vehicles put everyone else on the road at an unfair disadvantage when it comes to truck crashes. A recent Texas law, however, makes it even more difficult for the victims of these accidents to obtain just compensation that allows them to achieve their fullest recovery.
The Bill in Question
According to RA News, Texas state lawmakers approved HB 19 in early June (to become effective in September), which increases the number of obstacles there are related to holding trucking companies responsible for accidents involving their rigs. The bill's stated purpose is to put an end to what some critics have called excessive lawsuits that make running profitable trucking businesses more difficult –due to rising insurance costs. Unfortunately, however, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s 2020 report finds that Texas sees more than its fair share of fatal truck accidents, which leaves proponents of safety on our roads scratching their heads over this law’s seeming disinterest in the safety of our residents.
What This Means for Victims of Truck Accidents
The bill plays out in the following ways:
There are now two phases to the trial process for truck accidents.
In phase one, only evidence related to improper truck maintenance or driver negligence can be introduced.
In the second phase, evidence of improper training or supervision can be introduced – but only if the driver was found grossly negligent (a much higher standard of negligence) in the first phase.
Public safety professionals have voiced serious concern for the hundreds of families affected by life-threatening semi accidents each year throughout the State of Texas.
If You Have Been Injured
If a truck accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence leaves you or someone you love injured, the following steps can help ensure that you obtain the compensation to which you are entitled:
Obtain the medical attention you need as soon after the accident as possible (Read more: Do Not Delay Seeking Medical Care after a Car Accident)
Follow your doctor's instructions
Do not talk or post about the accident (the insurance company is poised to turn your words and/or photos against you by whatever means possible) (Dealing with the Insurance Company Post-Accident)
Work closely with an experienced truck accident attorney
The truth of the matter is that the deck is stacked against truck accident victims, and without professional legal counsel on your side, you are far less likely to obtain the compensation that you need to reach a full recovery.
It’s Time to Consult with an Experienced Killeen Truck Accident Attorney
If someone else’s negligence leaves you injured in a truck accident, Brett Pritchard at The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard – proudly serving Killeen, Texas – is a formidable truck accident attorney who dedicates his practice to helping clients like you prevail with settlements (or court awards) that address their complete range of damages. We are on your side and here to help, so please do not wait to contact or call us at 254-501-4040 for more information today.
RELATED READING