Truck accidents in Houston can be devastating, often resulting in severe injuries, overwhelming medical expenses, and long-term financial challenges. Sometimes, legal action is needed to secure the compensation necessary to rebuild your life. A skilled truck accident lawyer is an essential ally.
At Kolodny Law Firm, we understand the complexities involved in truck accident cases. With a reputation for achieving significant results and providing compassionate, client-focused representation, we stand by victims and their families every step of the way.
What does a truck accident lawyer do? Their role is multifaceted, involving several key responsibilities designed to build a strong case and secure maximum compensation for their clients. This guide will explain the critical roles these legal professionals play in advocating for your rights and securing fair compensation.
Conducting a Comprehensive Investigation
A truck accident lawyer begins by thoroughly investigating the circumstances of the crash. This investigation includes the following.
Collecting Evidence
The foundation of any truck accident case lies in the evidence. Houston truck accident lawyers gather crucial items such as police reports, eyewitness statements, and photographs from the accident scene. A seasoned truck accident lawyer knows how to analyze this information to spot inconsistencies or clues that can strengthen your claim.
Reviewing Black Box Data
Commercial trucks are often equipped with electronic logging devices (ELDs) or “black boxes,” which record critical data such as speed, braking, and hours of service.
Analyzing black box data is highly technical and often requires collaboration with experts who can interpret this information accurately. A truck accident lawyer will ensure this data is preserved and analyzed, as it can provide undeniable evidence of driver error or mechanical issues.
Examining Maintenance Logs and Trucking Records
The condition of the truck itself can be a significant factor in accidents. Lawyers review maintenance logs to ensure the vehicle was properly maintained, inspected, and repaired.
Neglecting maintenance can lead to catastrophic failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts. Lawyers also examine records from the trucking company to uncover unsafe practices, such as ignoring maintenance schedules, cutting corners on safety inspections, and overloading vehicles beyond their capacity.
Collaborating with Accident Reconstruction Experts
When the cause of an accident isn’t immediately apparent, your lawyer can bring in accident reconstruction specialists. These professionals recreate the sequence of events leading up to the crash using advanced technology and scientific methods. For instance, they do the following:
- Analyze the angles and force of impact to determine how the collision unfolded;
- Assess road conditions, weather, and visibility at the time of the accident; and
- Evaluate evidence to determine contributing factors like speeding or abrupt lane changes.
Accident reconstruction reports are powerful tools for proving liability. They provide an objective, expert-backed narrative that can strengthen your case during settlement negotiations or trial.
Determining Liability
Identifying who is responsible for a truck accident is one of the most challenging aspects of these cases. Unlike car accidents, truck crashes often involve multiple potentially liable parties, such as the following entities:
- Truck driver. The driver may be at fault if they were fatigued, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or if they violated traffic laws.
- Trucking company. Companies can be held accountable for unsafe practices. Such practices include hiring unqualified drivers, neglecting vehicle maintenance, or enforcing unrealistic schedules that encourage unsafe driving.
- Cargo loaders. Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can shift during transit, leading to accidents. Liability may arise if cargo exceeds weight limits, is unevenly distributed, or is not secured properly.
- Vehicle manufacturers. Defective truck components, such as brakes or tires, can contribute to accidents. Manufacturers may be responsible if design flaws or production errors caused the issue.
- Vehicle service providers. Maintenance providers can be liable if they fail to identify or adequately fix critical issues during repairs.
By holding all responsible parties accountable, attorneys aim to secure the full compensation victims deserve.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies representing trucking firms are typically well-resourced and aim to minimize payouts. A truck accident lawyer handles all communication with these adjusters, using evidence to counter lowball settlement offers.
Our attorneys understand the tactics insurance companies use and are skilled negotiators. We ensure that settlements reflect the full scope of our clients’ losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
Filing a Lawsuit and Representing Clients in Court
Your lawyer will file a lawsuit and prepare the case for court if a fair settlement cannot be reached. Litigation involves:
- Drafting and filing legal documents,
- Presenting evidence and expert testimony to a judge or jury, and
- Advocating aggressively to secure a verdict in the client’s favor.
While many cases settle before reaching trial, having a lawyer who is a skilled litigator and prepared to take the case to trial strengthens your negotiating position. Kolodny Law Firm has a strong track record of success in court, providing clients with confidence that their case is in capable hands.
Providing Ongoing Support and Guidance
Truck collision cases can take months or even years to resolve, depending on their complexity. Lawyers offer more than legal representation throughout this process—they provide ongoing support and guidance.
We make sure you understand the progression of your case, the settlement offers made, the pros and cons of accepting a specific offer, and what other options you have. We prioritize open communication, ensuring you feel supported and empowered during this challenging time.
For a free legal consultation, call (713) 532-4474 or contact us online
Schedule a Free Case Review with Our Houston Truck Accident Lawyers
Truck crashes can be life-changing events, but with the proper legal representation, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. A skilled truck accident lawyer in Houston handles every aspect of your case, from investigating the accident to negotiating with insurance companies and pursuing litigation when necessary.
At Kolodny Law Firm, we understand the challenges you face, and we are committed to securing the compensation you deserve. Our experienced lawyers have the knowledge, resources, dedication, and skills to achieve favorable outcomes, even in the most complex cases.
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Kolodny Law Firm today for a consultation and take the first step toward rebuilding your life.
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Alan Kolodny is committed to representing injured clients in Texas and throughout the United States. Alan earned his B.A. from Rice University and his J.D. from Southern Methodist University.
He focuses his practice on representing plaintiffs in personal injury cases involving the following matters: maritime and offshore accidents, including those under the Jones Act; automobile and 18-wheeler truck accidents; and industrial site accidents, work-related accidents, and claims for injured railroad workers under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act.
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