Experiencing a collision with a commercial truck can be devastating. These vehicles weigh 20 times more than average passenger cars, making them particularly deadly. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the state of Texas recorded 32,562 commercial truck accidents in 2020, out of which 513 were fatal. At least 581 people lost their lives. Sadly, most of these crashes are preventable.
Losing a loved one in a traffic accident is undoubtedly a devastating tragedy. The pain can be even more agonizing when you learn that someone else’s negligence caused the crash. Apart from the physical absence of a loved one, and the loss of consortium, companionship and guidance, the surviving estate of the deceased may face untold losses that stem from medical expenses, burial costs, and lost wages among others. This can take a toll, especially if the victim was the sole breadwinner. Our Houston truck accident lawyers offer support.
While no amount of money can replace a loved one, seeking compensation with a wrongful death claim could help the surviving estate a great deal. Contact a Houston fatal truck accident lawyer to learn more about your rights and eligibility for financial reimbursement.
Why Fatal Accidents Are So Common
Many auto wrecks on U.S roads happen due to driver negligence. This is no different when it comes to fatal truck wrecks. Most of the cases our Houston fatal truck accident attorneys have handled involve:
- Driver fatigue
- Drunk driving
- Bad weather
- Distracted driving
- Unsafe lane changes
- Poor vehicle designs
- Vehicle malfunctions
- Inexperienced driving
- Improper maintenance and loading
All these behaviors greatly influence the safety of motorists as well as the safety of the general public. Truck collisions with pedestrians, bikers, and cyclists are often catastrophic. If you lost a loved one in a similar case, our compassionate attorneys could help you find justice.
For a free legal consultation with a fatal truck accident lawyer serving Houston.
Call (832) 346-9585
Damages Recoverable in a Fatal Truck Accident Lawsuit
The surviving estate of the deceased in a fatal truck accident may be eligible for compensation by filing a wrongful death claim or survival action. Pursuing monetary recovery following an accident can be emotionally and psychologically traumatizing. However, it is the best you can do to ensure justice is served for your loved ones and those who depend on them. Some of the costs you may recover include:
- Pain and suffering
- Burial/funeral expenses
- Emotional trauma due to grief
- Lost wages for time not worked
- Deceased’s lost future earnings
- Past medical expenses incurred by the deceased
- Loss of love, guidance, companionship, and marital consortium
Notably, not everyone related to the deceased can claim compensation. The laws regarding wrongful death vary from state to state. Generally, the deceased’s parents, spouse, and children often have automatic eligibility to claim damages suffered. Any other legally appointed representative or party may pursue justice on their behalf. A knowledgeable Houston fatal truck accident attorney could discuss your eligibility for compensation, as well as the damages you should seek before taking any legal action or communicating with insurance companies.
Statute of Limitations for Fatal Truck Accident Cases
Anyone who wishes to file a wrongful death claim following a fatal truck accident in Texas has a maximum of two years to do so. This time frame begins from the day of the accident.
Two years may seem like plenty of time, but it will fly by. Never wait too long before taking steps to file a wrongful death case. Insurance companies may try to delay settling a claim so the Texas Statute of Limitations can lapse before taking the case to court. If the case is not filed within these limits, it will automatically be dismissed. For help meeting these important deadlines, partner with a Houston fatal truck crash attorney.
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Get Help From a Dedicated Houston Fatal Truck Accident Attorney
If you are mourning a loved one you lost in a truck wreck, you are not alone.
A proficient Houston fatal truck accident lawyer at our firm is available to discuss and review your case at absolutely no cost. We will identify all possible avenues that could hold another party responsible for the crash that killed your loved one. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
Call or text (832) 346-9585 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
