Commercial vehicles play a vital role in Austin's growing economy, delivering goods, transporting equipment and supporting businesses throughout Central Texas. From delivery vans traveling through downtown to construction vehicles on Interstate 35, they share the road with thousands of drivers every day.
When a commercial vehicle collides with a passenger vehicle, motorcycle or pedestrian, the consequences can be devastating. These crashes often involve larger vehicles, multiple insurance policies and federal safety regulations, so commercial vehicle accident claims are typically more complicated than ordinary car accidents.
If you were injured in a commercial vehicle accident in Austin or elsewhere in Central Texas, The Carlson Law Firm can help you understand your legal options and pursue compensation for your injuries.
Unlike ordinary motor vehicle collisions, commercial vehicle accidents often involve multiple companies, extensive insurance coverage and state or federal regulations. Depending on the circumstances, investigators may need to review:
Commercial vehicle cases can require identifying every potentially responsible party before determining the full value of a claim.
Austin's continued growth has dramatically increased commercial traffic throughout the region. Major roadways that are frequently used by freight carriers, delivery services, utility companies and construction contractors include:
Ongoing development throughout Travis County has also increased the number of construction vehicles, company trucks and delivery vans operating on local streets. This combination of rapid growth and traffic can increase the risk of serious collisions.
Every commercial vehicle accident is different, but some factors appear more than others. Common causes include:
Determining why a crash occurred often requires reviewing company records, maintenance documentation and federal safety regulations.
Commercial vehicle accidents involve much more than traditional tractor-trailers. Our attorneys represent individuals injured in many different types of commercial vehicle collisions.
Collisions involving 18-wheelers and other large freight trucks frequently result in catastrophic injuries because of the vehicles' size and weight.
Tanker trucks transporting fuel or hazardous materials can create additional risks, including fires, explosions and environmental hazards following a collision.
Medium-duty box trucks are frequently used for local deliveries and business transportation throughout Austin.
Many businesses operate company-owned vehicles that employees drive throughout the workday. Liability may extend beyond the driver to the employer or other responsible parties.
Collisions involving UPS, FedEx, USPS, Amazon and food delivery vehicles have become increasingly common as Austin continues to grow.
Utility companies regularly operate service trucks throughout Central Texas. Accidents involving these vehicles may require investigating employer policies and vehicle maintenance.
Dump trucks, cement mixers, cranes and other construction vehicles are often found throughout Austin's expanding roadways and commercial developments.
Garbage trucks make frequent stops in residential neighborhoods and may create visibility issues for nearby motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.
Public transit buses, charter buses and school buses involve unique legal considerations depending on ownership and operation.
Some rideshare drivers use commercial insurance policies or operate vehicles for business purposes, creating additional insurance considerations.
Commercial vehicle collisions occasionally result in post-impact fires caused by defective components or fuel system failures.
Commercial vehicle crashes often involve multiple passenger vehicles, making liability more complex.
Because commercial vehicles are generally larger than passenger vehicles, injuries are often severe. Common injuries include:
Some injuries require months or years of medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Commercial vehicle accidents frequently involve more than one responsible party. Potentially liable parties include:
Determining liability can require a thorough investigation into company policies, maintenance records and applicable regulations.
Depending on the circumstances, possible compensation may include:
In some situations involving gross negligence, additional damages may also be available under Texas law.
The steps you take after a commercial vehicle accident can affect medical or insurance claims. Following a commercial vehicle accident, consider:
Commercial carriers often begin investigating accidents immediately, making it especially important to preserve evidence early.
Initial Case Review
An attorney reviews the facts of the collision and identifies potential legal claims.
Investigation
Evidence may include crash reports, maintenance records, driver logs, inspection reports and electronic data.
Insurance Negotiations
Commercial vehicle accidents often involve multiple insurance carriers and corporate legal teams.
Litigation
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, filing a lawsuit may become necessary.
What qualifies as a commercial vehicle?
Commercial vehicles include tractor-trailers, company trucks, delivery vans, utility vehicles, construction equipment, buses and other vehicles operated for business purposes.
Who can be held responsible for a commercial vehicle accident?
Liability may extend beyond the driver to employers, trucking companies, maintenance providers, cargo loading companies or manufacturers depending on the facts of the case.
What if the commercial driver worked for a company?
Employers may sometimes be held responsible for the actions of employees operating company vehicles within the scope of their employment.
What if I was partially at fault?
Texas follows a modified comparative responsibility system. Depending on the circumstances, you may still be able to recover compensation.
How much does it cost to hire a commercial vehicle accident lawyer?
Many commercial vehicle accident cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning attorney's fees are generally collected only if compensation is recovered.
How long do I have to file a claim in Texas?
Texas law generally limits the amount of time available to file a personal injury lawsuit. Speaking with an attorney promptly may help preserve important evidence.
Commercial vehicle accidents often leave victims facing serious injuries, unexpected medical expenses and complex insurance claims. Understanding your legal rights early can help protect your financial recovery.
If you were injured in a commercial vehicle accident in Austin or elsewhere in Central Texas, contact The Carlson Law Firm to discuss your situation and learn more about your legal options.
With over a dozen locations throughout Texas, there’s a Carlson Law Firm near you. We have law offices located in Killeen, Temple, Waco, Round Rock, Austin, San Antonio, Kerrville, Laredo, Bryan, Lubbock, Midland, Baytown, San Angelo and Corpus Christi.
