Do You Need a Houston Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer?
At Baumgartner Law Firm, our Houston commercial vehicle accident lawyer understands the profound impact that commercial vehicle accidents can have on individuals and families in Houston, Texas. These incidents often result in severe injuries, financial burdens, and emotional distress.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a commercial vehicle crash in Harris County, Texas, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. That’s where our experienced Houston truck accident lawyers come in.
Experienced Houston Truck Accident Lawyer by Your Side
Our team is led by Greg Baumgartner, an experienced truck accident lawyer who specializes in handling complex commercial vehicle accident cases. We recognize the intricate nature of these incidents and the multiple parties involved, including drivers, employers, and insurance companies. Our expertise and unwavering commitment to our client’s rights and well-being sets us apart in the legal landscape and trucking industry.
Compassionate Support Every Step of the Way
We understand that recovering from a commercial vehicle accident requires more than just legal expertise—it demands empathy and understanding. Our compassionate team is here to provide you with the personalized attention and support you deserve during this challenging time. We prioritize clear communication and transparency, ensuring you are informed and empowered throughout the legal process.
Proven Track Record of Success in Truck Accident Claims
When it comes to seeking fair compensation for your injuries and losses, results matter. Our firm has a proven track record of securing substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients affected by car accidents and commercial vehicle accidents. We leverage our extensive experience and resources to meticulously investigate each case, building robust strategies tailored to achieve the best possible outcome.
Holistic Approach to Legal Representation
Every commercial vehicle accident is unique, and our approach reflects this understanding. We take a comprehensive approach to legal representation, addressing the immediate legal concerns and the long-term ramifications of the incident. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or litigating in court, we are committed to pursuing justice on your behalf.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
If you or someone you love has been injured in a commercial vehicle accident in Houston, Texas, don’t wait to seek the legal guidance you need. Contact Baumgartner Law Firm today at (281) 587-1111 to schedule a free consultation. Let us put our experience and dedication to work for you, advocating tirelessly to get you the maximum compensation for your injuries.
Why You Need a Qualified Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorney
Commercial vehicle accidents can result in serious injuries, property damage, and even death. Various factors, including driver error, vehicle malfunctions, and poor road conditions, can cause these accidents. In the aftermath of a semi-truck accident, you may face medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. An experienced commercial vehicle accident attorney can help you seek compensation for these damages and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Houston Truck Accident Attorneys with Specialized Knowledge and Experience
Commercial vehicle accidents involve complex laws and regulations, and it is crucial to have an experienced truck accident attorney in Texas who is knowledgeable and experienced in this area of law. A commercial vehicle accident attorney will deeply understand federal and state regulations that govern commercial vehicles and the insurance policies and coverage that may apply in your case. Expert truck accident attorneys will also have experience handling similar cases and know the best strategies to help you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Gathering evidence and thoroughly investigating the accident is essential to building a strong case. A commercial vehicle accident attorney will have the resources and expertise to gather evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage. They will also work with accident reconstruction experts to determine the cause of the accident and who is at fault. This evidence will prove liability and secure a fair settlement for your injuries.
Negotiation and Litigation Skills
Most commercial vehicle accident cases are settled out of court through negotiations with insurance companies. However, your top truck accident attorney will be prepared to take your case to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached. A skilled commercial vehicle accident attorney will have strong negotiation skills and be able to advocate for your best interests. They will also have experience in the courtroom and be able to present a compelling case to a judge and jury if necessary.
What Are Common Injuries in Commercial Vehicle Crashes?
Commercial vehicle accidents can cause a range of serious injuries that can have long-lasting consequences. Some commonly seen injuries resulting from these types of accidents include:
1. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): These injuries occur when the head experiences a blunt force trauma or rapid movement back and forth. TBIs can have severe and unpredictable effects on brain function, and in some cases, they may go undiagnosed initially, leading to further complications and more serious health consequences.
2. Spinal cord injuries: Accidents involving commercial vehicles can lead to significant damage to the spinal cord. Such injuries often result in losing body strength, impaired functioning, and altered sensation below the injury site. The physical, emotional, and social consequences of spinal cord injuries can be extensive.
3. Broken bones: Fractures are another common type of injury in commercial vehicle accidents. These injuries can cause immense pain, require extended healing periods, and sometimes lead to complications and permanent disabilities. In addition to these, various other injuries can result from commercial vehicle accidents, such as crushing injuries, limb amputations, and internal injuries.
These injuries can have serious, long-term implications on an individual’s quality of life. If you have been involved in a truck accident and have suffered any injury, seeking legal assistance from an experienced commercial accident lawyer is crucial. They can help you navigate the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation necessary to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and any other damages you may have incurred.
Types of Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Commercial vehicle accidents can involve a variety of vehicles, including trucks, buses, delivery vans, and more. Some common types of commercial vehicle accidents include:
Truck Accidents
Various factors, including driver fatigue, speeding, and improper cargo loading, can cause truck accidents. Due to their large size and weight, truck accidents can result in serious injuries and even death. A commercial vehicle accident attorney will have experience handling truck accident cases and know the best strategies to help you receive the compensation you deserve.
Bus Accidents
Bus accidents can involve public transportation buses, school buses, and charter buses. Driver error, vehicle malfunctions, or poor road conditions can cause these accidents. Due to the lack of safety restraints on most buses, injuries sustained in a bus accident can be severe. A commercial vehicle accident attorney can help you seek compensation for your injuries and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Delivery Van Accidents
Delivery vans like Amazon are a common sight on the roads, especially with the rise of online shopping. Inexperienced drivers often drive these vehicles and can be involved in accidents due to driver error or improper maintenance of vans or passenger vehicles. If you have been injured in a delivery van accident, a commercial vehicle accident attorney can help you seek compensation for your injuries and any other damages.
Company Cars
Company cars, commercial vehicles, and pickups usually carry commercial liability coverage and employ teams of top lawyers to defend an injury claim.
Baumgartner Law Firm has helped victims of commercial vehicle crashes for over 35 years and can help you, too! Texas car accident injury claims are different from company vehicles.
How Our Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorney Can Help You
A commercial vehicle accident attorney can provide a range of services to help you in the aftermath of an accident. Some ways they can assist you include:
Investigating the Accident
As mentioned earlier, a thorough investigation is crucial in building a strong case. Your attorney will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to determine the cause of the accident and who is at fault.
Calculating Damages
In addition to medical bills and lost wages, you may be entitled to compensation for other damages, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. A commercial vehicle accident attorney will have experience calculating these damages and ensuring you receive the full amount owed.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are notorious for trying to settle claims for as little as possible. Your attorney will handle all communication and negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive a fair settlement.
Representing You in Court
Your attorney will be prepared to take your case to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached. They will present a strong case on your behalf and fight for your rights before a judge and jury.
Read More: Understanding Commercial Vehicle Accidents
How to Choose the Right Attorney for a Crash with a Commercial Vehicle
When choosing a commercial vehicle accident attorney, it is essential to consider their experience, track record, and communication style. You want an attorney knowledgeable and experienced in this area of law, with a history of successful cases, and who will keep you informed and involved throughout the legal process.
Our founder attorney, Greg Baumgartner, has helped commercial vehicle accident victims since 1985 and won millions for our clients.
Read More: What is the Average Truck Accident Settlement?
How Our Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer Conducts Your Case
Our personal injury law firm takes great pride in our service for personal injury cases. If we agree to accept your personal injury claim, you will receive first-class legal representation from our top-rated personal injury attorneys. When you call, we will know you have chosen the right firm. You will not be a number to us but a friend.
When Our Houston Truck Accident Lawyers Accept Your Case, We Will Take These Steps:
Investigate your case – we will obtain the evidence to document and determine the cause of the accident and the responsible parties. Evidence can include witness interviews, photographs, getting the crash report, and other items.
Get your medical records and find your medical expenses. Our legal team will review your medical records and consult with your doctors to determine the extent of your injuries and how they impact your day-to-day life.
Fight for maximum compensation for you – we will deal with the insurance company to fight for maximum compensation for your injuries. Our law firm has obtained maximum compensation for thousands of Texas families on personal injury cases. We have won fair compensation for accident victims for over 35 years.
Personal injury lawsuits require a top-notch personal injury law firm, especially for serious injuries or wrongful death claim cases. Even auto accident cases with clear liability may need to be filed as a lawsuit to get fair compensation from the insurance company. Even auto accidents can lead to complex matters if more than one driver is involved in a semi-truck accident or the insurance adjuster denies liability.
Don’t just trust any TV lawyer with your personal injury claim. Get the best personal injury law firm near me.
Communication Options with Our Leading Houston Personal Injury Attorney
You can contact Baumgartner Law Firm in several ways, including via phone (281) 587-1111, a contact form (CLICK HERE), or the live chat option on this site. That way, you can contact us quickly in a way you feel comfortable with, generally on your terms.
At Baumgartner Law Firm, We Also Focus on these Practice Areas
Since 1985, Baumgartner Law Firm has limited our law practice to serious personal injury cases. Our legal team has won maximum compensation for thousands of accident victims and recovered millions of dollars for real people like you. The practice areas we focus on are the following:
· Auto & Car Accidents
· Catastrophic and Severe Injuries
· Construction Site Accidents
· Daycare Negligence & Child Injury
· Dram Shop Lawsuits
· Drunk Driving Accidents
· Lyft Accidents
· Motorcycle Accidents
· Personal Injury
· Truck Accidents
· Uber Accidents
· Work Injury
· Wrongful Death
Contact Our Top-Rated Commercial Accident Attorney for Help!
If you have been injured in a commercial vehicle accident, it is crucial to seek the help of a skilled and experienced trucking accident attorney. We can help you with your case and fight for your deserved compensation. With our 35 years of experience and specialized knowledge, the commercial vehicle accident attorney at Baumgartner Law Firm can help you achieve a favorable outcome and move forward with your life.
Call us at (281) 587-1111 or contact us online for a free consultation about your case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Company Vehicle Accidents
How can you protect your legal rights and well-being after a commercial vehicle accident?
Taking specific actions to safeguard your legal rights and well-being following a commercial vehicle accident is crucial. Here are the steps you should follow:
1. Prioritize Your Health: Your well-being is paramount. Seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries appear minor. It is crucial to have a medical professional assess your condition and document your injuries accurately.
2. Report the Accident: Notify law enforcement and ensure an official accident report is made. This report will be vital for insurance claims and any legal proceedings that may arise.
3. Gather Information: Collect contact details, insurance information, and vehicle details from all parties involved in the accident. This documentation includes the commercial vehicle driver, employer, and other drivers.
4. Document the Scene: Take photographs of the accident scene, capturing vehicle damage, road conditions, and relevant traffic signs or signals. It is also important to document the license plates of all vehicles involved. If possible, photograph your injuries as well.
5. Obtain Witness Information: Get the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident. Their statements may provide valuable support for your version of events.
6. Refrain from Admitting Fault: Avoid making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of guilt or fault. Share objective facts only when discussing the accident with law enforcement, other parties, or insurance representatives.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company promptly and provide them with accurate and timely information about the incident.
8. Be Cautious with Insurance Adjusters: If the trucking company or another party’s insurance company contacts you, exercise caution when providing recorded statements without consulting your attorney. Use extra caution when discussing truck accident injuries, especially before you know the extent of the injuries. It is advisable to speak with legal counsel before engaging with these individuals.
9. Preserve Evidence: Safeguard any evidence relevant to the accident, such as medical records, photographs, and receipts for medical expenses and vehicle repairs.
10. Continue or Complete Medical Treatment: Adhere to the recommended treatment plan provided by your healthcare provider. Attend all necessary medical appointments and keep thorough documentation of your injuries and the treatment you receive.
11. Maintain a Record: Keep a record of all communications related to the accident, including emails, letters, and phone calls. This record can be valuable for reference purposes and for ensuring accurate documentation of your interactions.
12. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney: Seek guidance from a personal injury attorney specializing in handling commercial vehicle accident cases. They have the expertise to protect your rights, navigate the legal process on your behalf, and assist you in pursuing the appropriate compensation you deserve.
Why is it important to notify your insurance company and provide accurate information about the incident?
Notifying your insurance company promptly and providing accurate information about the incident are crucial for several reasons. First, by reporting the accident to your insurance company quickly, you allow them to initiate the claims process and address any potential damages or losses as soon as possible. Reporting also ensures that you can receive the necessary support and coverage promptly.
Second, providing accurate information about the incident is vital for the insurance company to assess the situation properly. Precise details about what occurred, when, and any parties involved allow the insurer to make an informed decision regarding your claim. Inaccurate or incomplete information could lead to delays or potential complications in the claims process.
Finally, even if the accident was the other driver’s fault, you may have benefits like PIP coverage under your auto policy.
What should you avoid doing when discussing the accident with the police, other parties, or insurance representatives?
When discussing the accident with the police, other parties, or insurance representatives, it is important to avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of guilt. Instead, stick to the facts and avoid providing information that may incriminate you. Think about getting an experienced attorney to handle your truck accident claim.
Why document the crash site, vehicle damage, and other facts?
Thoroughly documenting the accident scene, including vehicle damage and road conditions, is crucial. Properly capturing this information through photographs and notes is of the utmost importance. Documenting the scene helps establish an accurate incident record and provides valuable evidence for insurance claims, legal proceedings, and future investigations.
By taking detailed photos of the accident scene, including the extent of vehicle damage, the condition of the road, and any relevant traffic signs or signals, you can provide irrefutable evidence to avoid any potential disputes or conflicting accounts. Additionally, documenting license plates of all vehicles involved ensures accurate identification. Furthermore, capturing photographs of any injuries sustained in the accident, if possible, serves as a visual record that can support medical claims and provide a more holistic understanding of the incident. Therefore, documenting the accident scene, including vehicle damage and road conditions, is significant and should not be overlooked.
What information should I get from the other driver?
– Full names, addresses, and phone numbers of everyone involved
– The insurance carrier’s name and policy number of everyone involved
– Make and model and license plates of all vehicles involved
– Registration details of all vehicles involved
– Relevant parties such as employers of commercial vehicle drivers or additional drivers present at the scene.
Besides the driver, who else may be liable for a commercial vehicle accident?
If the other driver were on the job at the crash, their employer would also be responsible for the driver’s negligence in the course and scope of his employment. If the crash involved a semi-truck or 18-wheeler, the trucking company might bear responsibility for the truck accident or the driver’s negligence, even if he was an independent contractor.
Other parties may bear responsibility for a commercial vehicle accident, such as maintenance companies, vehicle manufacturers in the event of a defectively designed product, and even companies that loaded the vehicle if the loading was possibly A cause of the crash.
Why must I get an experienced attorney for a commercial vehicle injury crash?
Commercial vehicle accidents are much more complex than a simple car accident case. Expertise and experience are necessary to maximize your compensation after an injury accident. A law firm specializing in commercial vehicle accidents should be your first choice. Be wary of law firms and attorneys you see on billboards or advertising heavily to attract clients. You don’t want to be a claim number to your attorney. People injured in commercial truck accidents deserve an attorney who can devote the time and attention to their case to maximize compensation.
Are commercial drivers held to higher standards than other drivers in Texas?
A driver who is required to have a commercial driver’s license and driving a commercial vehicle is absolutely held to a higher standard of safety. The federal motor carrier safety regulations adopted in Texas provide stringent rules that trucking companies and truck drivers must comply with to protect the public’s safety. Selecting an attorney with expertise in commercial vehicle crashes is essential for your case’s best result.
How much is the contingency fee at Baumgartner Law Firm?
All cases we accept are handled on a contingency fee basis. We charge a percentage of the total money collected on your injury case. Our fees start at 1/3 of the total recovery. You owe us no fee if we do not get you money in your pocket. In essence, our interests are aligned because the more money we get you, the more we get paid. Our fees start at one-third.
When can an employee be responsible for an accident and not the company?
When it comes to determining an employee’s responsibility for a company vehicle accident, there are several actions that, if committed, can place full liability on the employee for injuries from a truck accident or a fatal truck accident. These actions involve negligence or misconduct, and they include:
1. Engaging in criminal activity: If an employee operates a company vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, drives at excessive speeds, fails to use their lights when necessary, or drives with a suspended license, they will be held accountable for the accident and any resulting injuries. The employee’s illegal actions directly contributed to the accident and breached their duty to operate the vehicle safely.
2. Going beyond the scope of work: An employee must use the company vehicle strictly for work-related purposes. If the employee diverts from their assigned tasks and uses the vehicle for personal errands or engages in any activities unrelated to their job responsibilities, they may be held responsible for any accidents occurring during this unauthorized use. Such actions are considered a “frolic” and exceed the boundaries of their employment.
3. Engaging in other non-business activity: Employees often have specific agreements with their employers regarding the conditions under which they are authorized to operate a company vehicle. These conditions may include restrictions on hours of operation, designated travel times and locations, and rules concerning the number of vehicle occupants. Suppose an employee deviates from these agreed-upon conditions, and the accident occurs because they disregard these stipulations. In that case, they can be deemed fully responsible for the accident.
4. Acting as an independent contractor: Employees who use their vehicle for company purposes are usually responsible for obtaining insurance coverage. If an accident occurs while using their vehicle for company purposes, the employee must rely on their insurance policy or pay out of pocket to compensate for any damages or injuries sustained by others involved.
By committing any of these actions, an employee assumes full responsibility for a company vehicle accident, acknowledging the breach of their duty to operate the vehicle safely and within the authorized parameters set by their employer.
What are the legal responsibilities of employers and vehicle manufacturers in accidents with company vehicles?
Employers and vehicle manufacturers have multifaceted responsibilities in preventing accidents involving company vehicles. Employers must hire competent and licensed drivers and ensure that they are adequately supervised while operating company vehicles.
To mitigate the risk of accidents, employers should provide necessary training, conduct regular drug tests, obtain detailed driving histories, conduct thorough background checks on employees, and adhere to scheduled vehicle maintenance.
Notably, vehicle manufacturers can also bear responsibility for accident prevention. One crucial aspect is promptly reporting any recalls or safety issues related to their vehicles, such as faulty tires, brakes, or transmission problems.
Failure to disclose such information can result in partial or total liability for accidents. In a serious situation like an accident, employers and vehicle manufacturers will rely on their respective insurance companies for support and assistance.
Related Commercial Vehicle Accident Resources:
How Long Does it Take to Settle an 18-Wheeler Accident Case?
What are the Insurance Requirements For 18-Wheelers in Texas?
Essential Guide to Obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License in Texas
Houston Leads the State in 18-Wheeler Accidents
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Houston Hit and Run Accident Attorney
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Related FAQs
Do you make house calls or hospital visits?
What kind of cases do you accept?
We are very selective in the cases that we agree to handle to provide the best possible service to our clients. By limiting the number of cases that we accept, we can provide the time attention, and resources required to maximize compensation for our clients.
Accordingly, our practice is limited to cases involving substantial injury or a family who has lost a loved one. We have gained a reputation for handling 18-wheeler truck accidents, car and drunk driving crashes, daycare injury cases, and other serious injury and wrongful death matters. To learn more about the cases we cover, visit our practice areas page.
Do I have to pay money out of my pocket to hire you?
Do you handle all types of personal injury cases?
No, we are very selective in the cases that we agree to accept. We intentionally limit the number of cases that we handle and the practice areas for the cases we take to provide the best possible personal service for our clients. To learn more about the cases we cover, visit our practice areas page or you can contact us for individual consultation about your case. (281) 587-1111.
What is the best way to contact you?
We prefer to be contacted by telephone and also respond to our online consultation requests. You can call us 24/7 at (281) 587-1111. We offer Zoom consultations as well.
How successful have you been with your cases?
We are a personal injury law firm with over three decades of experience and are extremely proud of our winning track record of success. Our founder is nationally recognized as among the best personal injury lawyers in the USA. We are undefeated in truck accident cases, wrongful death cases, and daycare negligence and invite you to check out our results page for recent results in cases we won.
For the last 35 years, we have concentrated on maximizing our client’s compensation in serious injury and wrongful death cases. If you are looking for the best personal injury lawyers in Houston – Call us! (281) 587-1111.
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"I can never express how grateful me and my family are to Greg Baumgartner and his team of truck accident lawyers in Houston. He took care of our injury case and got us a great settlement. Thank you for a job well done!"
- R. G. Client
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"I was hit in the rear by an 18 wheeler and was lucky enough to have found Greg – I was overjoyed with the results and highly recommend him."
- Raymond
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