Cement trucks are vital to Houston’s booming construction industry, but their size, weight, and unique handling requirements make them particularly dangerous on the road. When accidents occur, the results are often devastating, leading to severe injuries, property damage, and emotional trauma for victims. Understanding your rights and options is essential if you’ve experienced a cement truck accident in Houston.
Kolodny Law Firm provides dedicated and compassionate legal representation, fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve. Our cement truck accident lawyers have extensive experience handling cases involving large commercial vehicles like cement trucks. These claims require a thorough understanding of the factors that contribute to such accidents and the ability to hold responsible parties accountable. We’re here to stand by your side, offering guidance and advocacy every step of the way.
What to Do After a Houston Cement Truck Accident
Being involved in a cement truck accident is a traumatic experience that requires clear and immediate action. Promptly acting by taking the following steps ensures the preservation of evidence and respect for your rights while giving you the best chance at securing the compensation you need.
Contact Emergency Services
One of the first things you should do after a cement truck accident is call 911. Emergency responders will assess the situation and provide immediate medical attention to anyone who needs it.
Additionally, law enforcement will file an official accident report, including vital details such as the time, location, and apparent cause of the collision. Make sure to mention any hazards caused by the cement truck, such as spilled materials or damaged property, when speaking to authorities. This report becomes a crucial piece of evidence for your claim.
Move to Safety
If you are physically able and safe, move yourself and others involved in the accident to a secure area away from oncoming traffic. Cement trucks are large and may cause roadblocks or additional hazards that could lead to further accidents. Spilled cement or broken truck parts can create dangerous conditions for other drivers. If your vehicle is still operational, move it out of the traffic lane, but avoid straying too far from the scene, as this could complicate the investigation.
Document the Scene
Thorough documentation of the accident scene is one of the most effective ways to support your claim. Use your phone or a camera to do the following:
- Take photos and videos of the crash site, focusing on vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any injuries you or others have sustained;
- Note any additional hazards caused by the cement truck, such as spilled materials, damaged barriers, or obstructed traffic lanes; and
- Capture images from multiple angles to provide a complete picture of the scene and give context to the layout of the accident site.
Photographic and video evidence is invaluable when determining liability and proving the severity of the incident.
Gather Information
Exchanging contact and insurance information with the cement truck driver and any other parties involved in the crash is essential. Be sure to note the name of the company that owns or operates the truck, the truck’s license plate number, and any identifying details, such as branding or markings on the vehicle.
Witnesses can provide critical insights into how the accident occurred, so gather their names and contact information and ask them if they are willing to give a statement to law enforcement or your attorney. Avoid discussing fault with anyone at the scene, as statements made in the heat of the moment can be misinterpreted or used against you later.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you believe your injuries are minor, seek medical evaluation immediately. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away but can become more serious if left untreated. Additionally, visiting a doctor can help with:
- Creating a medical record that links your injuries to the accident;
- Addressing all symptoms you may have, no matter how small they seem, to ensure a full assessment of your health; and
- Developing a treatment plan and schedule for follow-up appointments to protect your health and strengthen your case.
Insurance companies can use delays in seeking care to argue that your injuries are unrelated to the accident, so be sure to follow all advice your healthcare provider provides.
Consult a Houston Cement Truck Accident Lawyer
Contacting a lawyer experienced in cement truck accident cases is one of the most critical steps. Cement truck accidents often involve large companies or multiple liable parties, making these cases more complicated than standard car accidents. An attorney can:
- Review the details of your accident,
- Help gather additional evidence,
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies or other parties,
- Ensure the protection of your rights throughout the legal process, and
- Obtain the compensation you deserve.
At Kolodny Law Firm, we manage your case, allowing you to focus on recovery and rebuilding your life.
For a free legal consultation, call (713) 532-4474 or fill out our online contact form
Why Cement Truck Accidents Happen in Houston
Cement trucks, often called concrete mixers, are essential for transporting liquid concrete to construction sites. Unlike standard trucks, these vehicles carry heavy, constantly moving loads of wet cement in rotating drums. This unique design adds to the risks they pose on Houston’s roads. Understanding the specific factors behind cement truck accidents can help identify liability and prevent future incidents.
Driver Negligence
Operating a cement truck requires skill, focus, and strict adherence to traffic laws. However, many accidents occur due to driver negligence. Cement truck drivers often work under pressure to meet tight deadlines, resulting in fatigue. Long shifts and early mornings leave drivers physically and mentally drained, increasing the likelihood of errors.
Distractions also play a significant role in these crashes. Drivers may focus on monitoring the cement drum, navigating construction zones, or using electronic devices instead of paying attention to the road. Any lapse in focus can lead to catastrophic results.
Improper Maintenance
Cement trucks require rigorous maintenance to ensure they are safe to operate. Due to their size, weight, and cargo, these vehicles endure substantial wear and tear, including:
- Brake malfunctions. The brakes on cement trucks must withstand the pressure of stopping a heavily loaded vehicle. If a truck’s braking system fails, the driver may not be able to stop in time, causing a collision.
- Hydraulic system failure. This system controls much of the basic functioning of a cement truck. System failure can cause the driver to lose control over steering and lifting mechanisms.
- Tire blowouts. Trucks put many miles on tires traveling to and from various job sites, causing them to wear quickly. Worn tires are more likely to burst under the weight of a heavy load, leading to loss of control.
Neglecting regular inspections and repairs can lead to dangerous mechanical failures. Maintenance records are often critical in determining liability in cement truck accident cases.
Overloaded or Unbalanced Loads
Cement trucks transport a constantly moving liquid load, which makes them inherently more unstable than other commercial vehicles. The weight distribution can become uneven if the cement drum is overfilled or improperly loaded. Unbalanced loads also strain the truck’s tires and suspension, increasing the likelihood of mechanical failure. In some cases, poorly maintained drums or improperly secured hatches may allow the cement to spill onto the road, creating additional hazards for other drivers.
Blind Spots
Due to their size and design, cement trucks have extensive blind spots on all sides. The large drum in the back often obstructs the driver’s rearview, while the elevated cab limits the visibility of nearby vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. For instance, a cement truck driver turning right may fail to notice a cyclist traveling alongside the truck. Similarly, reversing in a construction zone without proper spotters or cameras can seriously injure workers or bystanders.
Reckless Driving
Sometimes, cement truck drivers cut corners to stay on schedule, ignoring basic traffic safety on city streets or construction zones. Reckless behavior by drivers can include:
- Speeding or aggressive maneuvers,
- Abrupt lane changes,
- Tailgating, and
- Failing to yield to smaller vehicles.
Reckless driving in cement trucks endangers other drivers and pedestrians and often results in severe accidents. The size and weight of these vehicles make them more difficult to control, and the vehicle’s momentum and reduced maneuverability amplify the consequences of negligent drivers.
Common Injuries Caused by Cement Trucks in Houston
According to data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 49 fatal crashes involving cement trucks were recorded in a recent reporting year, underscoring the potential for tragic consequences. Additionally, 594 crashes resulted in injuries, leaving many victims facing severe physical and emotional trauma. These alarming statistics highlight the serious risks cement trucks pose on Houston roads.
Cement truck accidents have far-reaching physical and emotional consequences. While the types of injuries caused by cement truck crashes vary, the most common include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs),
- Spinal cord injuries,
- Fractured or crushed bones,
- Internal injuries,
- Burns and lacerations,
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and
- Depression and anxiety.
These trucks play a significant role in commercial vehicle accidents, often resulting in devastating outcomes. A skilled attorney can help you focus on your recovery and get the help you need to heal.
For a free legal consultation, call (713) 532-4474 or fill out our online contact form
How Our Cement Truck Accident Lawyers Can Help You After an Accident
When you work with Kolodny Law Firm, you gain a team of Houston cement truck accident lawyers dedicated to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys handle every aspect of your case, including:
- Comprehensive legal support,
- Negotiating with insurance companies,
- Calculating damages, and
- Representing you in court.
Partnering with an experienced legal team provides peace of mind during a challenging time. We are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
Damages a Houston Cement Truck Accident Attorney Can Help You Recover
Victims of cement truck accidents often face significant financial, physical, and emotional burdens. Our team works tirelessly to secure compensation that addresses all aspects of your losses, such as:
- Medical expenses—including hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any future care needs related to your injuries;
- Lost wages and earning potential—if your injuries prevent you from working, you may recover lost income as well as damages for reduced earning capacity;
- Pain and suffering—addressing the physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injuries;
- Property damage—you can recover repairs or replacement costs for your vehicle and other personal property damaged in the accident; and
- Wrongful death—surviving family members may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and loss of financial support.
By pursuing these damages, victims and their families can begin to rebuild their lives after a devastating accident.
Frequently Asked Questions About Houston Cement Truck Accidents
What Compensation Can I Pursue After a Cement Truck Accident in Houston?
You may recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and long-term care needs.
How Do I Know Who Is at Fault for the Cement Truck Accident?
Determining fault requires a detailed investigation of the accident. Liability may rest with the driver, the trucking company, or a third party, such as a maintenance provider.
What If a Government Contractor Operated the Cement Truck?
Claims involving government contractors require adherence to specific legal procedures and deadlines. Hiring an experienced cement truck accident lawyer in Houston ensures compliance with these rules.
Discuss Your Case with a Houston Cement Truck Accident Attorney | 100% Free Consultation
If you or a loved one was recently in an accident with a cement truck, the dedicated personal injury lawyers at Kolodny Law Firm are here to help. With extensive experience, a passion for justice, and a deep knowledge of the applicable laws, our Houston truck accident lawyers know what it will take to secure the compensation you need and deserve. To learn more and schedule a free consultation today, call Kolodny Law Firm or connect with us through our secure online contact form.