El Paso Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyers
Accidents involving commercial vehicles can cause severe injuries and complex legal challenges. In El Paso, collisions with trucks often involve complicated questions about liability and insurance. If you have been in an accident with a commercial vehicle, you may have many questions about your next steps.
What Qualifies as a Commercial Vehicle?
A commercial vehicle is any motor vehicle used to transport goods or passengers for business purposes. These vehicles include semi-trucks, buses, delivery vans, and box trucks. Companies such as Amazon, UPS, and FedEx frequently use commercial vehicles for delivery services. These vehicles are subject to specific regulations, and drivers often need special licenses and must meet strict safety and maintenance standards.
In Texas, both state and federal regulations govern commercial vehicle operations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) oversees interstate trucking laws, while the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) regulates vehicles operating within the state.
What Are the Common Causes of Commercial Vehicle Accidents?
It is important to remember that many commercial vehicle accidents are preventable. Factors like driver fatigue and reckless driving can often be addressed with better regulations and enforcement. This knowledge can give you hope and motivate you to take action.
Improper vehicle maintenance is another frequent cause. Commercial vehicles, including those operated by large delivery companies, require regular inspections. Neglecting necessary repairs can lead to mechanical issues, such as brake or tire failures. Overloading or improperly balancing cargo can make a vehicle more challenging to control, while distracted driving, often due to mobile devices or in-cab technology, is also a major contributor. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a significant risk in commercial vehicle accidents.
Who Is Liable in a Commercial Vehicle Accident?
Liability in commercial vehicle accidents can be complex and often involves multiple parties. The commercial vehicle driver may be liable if their actions, such as speeding or distracted driving, caused the accident. However, companies employing drivers, such as Amazon, UPS, or FedEx, could also share responsibility, especially if they failed to properly maintain the vehicle or pressured the driver to meet unsafe deadlines.
The vehicle manufacturer may sometimes be liable if a defect caused the accident. A third-party maintenance company could also be responsible if they neglected necessary repairs. Identifying all liable parties requires a detailed investigation, including reviewing driver logs, maintenance records, and other documentation. At Flores Mendez Law, our legal team conducts thorough investigations to ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable.
What Should I Do After a Commercial Vehicle Accident?
After a commercial vehicle accident, your priority should be your health. Seek medical attention immediately, even if your injuries seem minor. Once you have addressed your medical needs, report the accident to the police. An official accident report is critical evidence for insurance claims and potential legal action.
Document the accident scene by taking photos of the vehicles involved, including any logos or company markings from Amazon, UPS, FedEx, or other commercial operators. This can help identify the company responsible for the vehicle. Collect contact information from witnesses, as their statements can support your case.
Consult with a lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can guide you through the legal process, handle communications with insurance companies, and protect your rights.
How Are Commercial Vehicle Accidents Different From Regular Car Accidents?
Accidents involving commercial vehicles differ from those involving only passenger vehicles in several ways. Commercial vehicles like those used by Amazon, UPS, and FedEx are much larger and heavier, meaning collisions often result in more severe injuries.
Another key difference is the strict regulations that apply to commercial vehicles. Drivers are limited to how many hours they can drive without rest, and vehicles must meet rigorous maintenance standards. These regulations often play a critical role in determining liability. Additionally, commercial vehicle accidents frequently involve multiple parties, including the driver, the transportation company, and third-party contractors.
Commercial vehicle operators, especially large companies, carry larger insurance policies due to the increased risks associated with their operations. While this may seem beneficial, negotiating with these companies’ insurance teams can be more challenging.
What Types of Injuries Are Common in Commercial Vehicle Accidents?
Commercial vehicle accidents can cause a wide range of serious injuries. Traumatic brain injuries, including concussions, spinal cord injuries, and broken bones, are common. Victims may also suffer from internal injuries, such as damage to internal organs, and soft tissue injuries, including whiplash.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Commercial Vehicle Accident?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a commercial vehicle accident is generally two years from the date of the accident. Consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure your case is filed within the appropriate deadlines.
How Can a Lawyer Help With a Commercial Vehicle Accident Case?
A lawyer plays a crucial role in managing a commercial vehicle accident case. First, they will investigate the accident thoroughly, gathering evidence such as driver logs, maintenance records, and witness statements. This is particularly important in cases involving large companies like Amazon, UPS, and FedEx, as they have robust legal teams.
Negotiating with insurance companies can be challenging, but a lawyer will protect your rights and work to secure the best outcome possible for your case.
The El Paso Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyers at Flores Mendez Law Defend the Rights of Accident Victims Injured by Commercial Vehicles
Commercial vehicle accidents can have life-altering consequences, but knowing your rights and taking appropriate action can make a significant difference. From determining liability to handling insurance negotiations, the El Paso commercial vehicle accident lawyers at Flores Mendez Law are here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us today at 915-308-9999 or online to schedule a free consultation. With our offices located in El Paso, Texas and Las Cruces, New Mexico, we proudly serve clients in the surrounding areas.