Truck Accident Lawyer in Corpus Christi
Committed to Quality Representation Following An Accident
Commercial truck accidents are some of the most serious and devastating types of auto accidents, as they involve enormous vehicles that can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Because of the size and weight of these vehicles, collisions involving commercial trucks are much more likely to result in severe injuries and even death.
As a Corpus Christi-based team, Gonzales Law Firm moves quickly after a crash to preserve critical evidence, including electronic control module data, driver logbooks, dispatch records, and inspection reports, while coordinating witness statements and crash reconstruction.
We apply Texas law and federal FMCSA regulations to identify every liable party, document the full scope of your losses, and pressure trucking companies and insurers for maximum compensation, with litigation in Nueces County courts when needed.
Do not wait. Dominate your claim. Call (361) 309-4243 or request your free case evaluation. Gonzales Law Firm pressures insurers from day one for maximum recovery.
Understanding Your Rights After A Truck Accident
The aftermath of a truck accident presents significant legal challenges. Being aware of your rights as a victim is crucial to navigating this complex process. At Gonzales Law Firm, our mission is to empower clients by ensuring they have access to the critical information necessary to make sound decisions, reinforcing the idea that knowledge is power.
Truck accident victims are often entitled to various forms of compensation. Understanding the scope and extent of these options can be overwhelming. That is where our experienced team steps in, simplifying complex legal jargon and providing clear, actionable advice. We break down the legal language into terms you can understand, ensuring you are fully aware of the rights available to you, from consulting with legal representation to securing the privacy of your personal information.
Here are some key rights you should be aware of:
- Right to compensation: Following an accident, you are entitled to seek compensation for your medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.
- Right to legal representation: You have the right to retain an attorney who focuses on truck accidents to help ensure that your case is handled with care and proficiency.
- Right to a fair investigation: You have the right to a thorough inquiry into the accident to assess liability and gather evidence to support your claim.
- Right to negotiate: You have the right to negotiate with insurance companies or file a lawsuit if required to reach a fair settlement.
- Right to privacy: Your personal information and medical records should be handled with confidentiality throughout the legal process.
Beyond these general rights, you may also have important protections under Texas law that affect how your case moves forward. For example, you have the right to refuse early, low settlement offers and to have an attorney review any paperwork before you sign it. You are also entitled to pursue claims against every responsible party, which in a commercial trucking case might include the driver, the trucking company, and other businesses involved in the load or maintenance of the vehicle.
Many people are surprised to learn that evidence in a trucking case can be lost or destroyed if action is not taken quickly. You have the right to have key evidence—such as electronic logging records, dashcam footage, and maintenance documents—preserved before it disappears. A commercial truck accident attorney in Corpus Christi from our firm can send formal notices to protect this evidence, helping level the playing field against trucking companies that respond immediately after a crash with their own investigators and lawyers.
Being aware of your rights can greatly shape the results of your case. At Gonzales Law Firm, our attorneys are committed to assisting you at every point, making certain you are both informed and supported as you seek the financial recovery you are entitled to.
What Kind of Compensation Can I Expect From A Truck Accident Lawsuit?
If you are involved in a truck accident in Texas, a Corpus Christi truck accident attorney at Gonzales Law Firm can guide you through the legal process. Compensation may cover losses such as property damage, medical bills, and lost income, as well as pain and suffering. Our lawyers are dedicated to pursuing the full compensation you deserve, addressing both economic and non-economic damages to aid your recovery and future well-being.
Understanding the types of compensation available is vital. Economic damages include quantifiable losses like medical expenses and lost wages, while non-economic damages cover pain and suffering or emotional distress. It is crucial to document all expenses and impacts—this comprehensive record helps build a strong case for maximum recovery. Additionally, punitive damages may be pursued if gross negligence is demonstrated, serving both as a deterrent and as a form of punishment for the responsible party.
In serious crashes involving 18-wheelers or other large commercial trucks, future costs often make up a large part of a claim. These may include ongoing physical therapy, follow-up surgeries, assistive devices, or the cost of changing jobs if you can no longer return to your prior work. We work with medical and financial professionals to estimate these long-term needs so you are not left paying out of pocket years after a settlement. This is especially important in cases involving spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, or other life-changing harm.
You may also be able to pursue compensation for the impact the accident has on your daily life, relationships, and independence. This can include loss of enjoyment of activities you once loved, loss of household services if you can no longer care for your home or children the same way, and loss of consortium for a spouse. When we evaluate a claim, we look closely at how the crash has changed your routine in Corpus Christi—from driving on local highways like I-37 to taking part in family events—so that your claim reflects your real-world losses, not just the medical bills on paper.
Let Our Family Fight for Yours
Here's What Sets Gonzales Law Firm Apart
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Fierce Advocacy
Whether it's in the courtroom or at the bargaining table, our attorneys don't hold back in the fight for justice.
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A Family Approach
As a family firm, every member of our team is deeply invested in your case and working towards your success.
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Experience to Spare
With decades of experience across a wealth of practice areas, we're confidently prepared for any twist and turn your case may encounter.
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The Voice for Victims
Our compassionate legal team is genuinely committed to being the voice of injured clients in the complicated legal process.
What to Do After a Commercial Truck Accident
After being involved in a truck accident, the steps you take in the immediate aftermath are crucial. We understand that this may be an overwhelming time for you and your family, but it is important to take the right steps to protect your legal rights. Our Corpus Christi truck accident attorneys have put together a list of what to do after a truck accident.
After a truck accident, you should:
- Seek medical attention for your injuries
- Call the police and report the accident
- Take pictures of the scene of the accident and your injuries
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver
- Get contact information from any witnesses
- Do not provide a statement to the truck driver's insurance company
- Contact a truck accident attorney as soon as possible
By taking the right steps after a truck accident, you can protect your legal rights and increase your chances of securing fair compensation for your injuries.
In addition to these immediate steps, keeping a detailed journal of the events surrounding the accident and your subsequent medical treatments can be invaluable. Not only does this documentation help support your account, but it also serves as a record to substantiate your pain and suffering claims. Engaging with legal counsel promptly enables you to navigate the complexities of truck accident claims with informed, strategic guidance tailored to your unique situation. Connect with an 18-wheeler accident attorney in Corpus Christi from Gonzales Law Firm.
Road and Weather Conditions Impacting Corpus Christi Truck Accidents
Corpus Christi's unique coastal location means that weather conditions can often play a pivotal role in road safety. The city experiences high humidity and rainfall, creating slippery roads that can increase the risk of accidents, particularly for 18-wheeler trucks. Heavy trucks navigating these conditions must take extra caution, especially during the hurricane season when rains are more frequent and intense. Knowing local weather patterns can help truck drivers and other motorists prepare for sudden changes, reducing the likelihood of collisions.
Additionally, Corpus Christi's proximity to the Port of Corpus Christi, one of the largest ports in the U.S., adds to the traffic density in the area. With an immense volume of industrial and commercial vehicles traveling to and from the port, the risk of accidents increases, particularly in high-traffic zones on major routes like Interstate 37 and Highway 181. Understanding these local traffic dynamics is crucial for formulating effective legal strategies after an accident, especially when multiple vehicles are involved.
Who Is Liable for A Truck Accident?
When it comes to truck accident claims, it is important to determine who is liable for the accident. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, there may be multiple parties who can be held accountable for your injuries.
Some of the parties who may be liable for a truck accident include:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The truck manufacturer
- The company responsible for loading the truck's cargo
Truck Driver Liability
Truck drivers can be held liable for a truck accident if it is determined that they were negligent or reckless in their driving. This can include things like texting and driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or driving while fatigued. In general, truck drivers are required to adhere to a higher standard of care than other drivers on the road because of the size and weight of their vehicles.
To establish truck driver liability, it is essential to gather comprehensive evidence such as electronic logging device (ELD) records, dashcam footage, and witness statements. These pieces of evidence can demonstrate violations of driving laws or standards of safety, emphasizing the truck driver's responsibility in the incident. In addition, our team works to reconstruct accidents to identify the precise actions leading to collisions, helping to ensure accountability is placed where it belongs.
Trucking Company Liability
In some cases, the trucking company that employs the truck driver can be held liable for a truck accident. For example, if the trucking company knew that the truck driver had a history of driving under the influence but failed to take action, the company could be held responsible for the accident. Additionally, if the trucking company failed to properly maintain the truck or if the company failed to ensure that the truck driver was properly trained, the company can be held liable for any resulting accidents.
Trucking companies must hire qualified drivers and maintain their fleet to safety standards. Failure to conduct thorough background checks or regular vehicle inspections can lead to liability if these oversights contribute to an accident. Evidence such as maintenance logs, hiring records, and compliance documentation is crucial in establishing negligence on the part of the trucking company, offering a comprehensive view of their potential responsibility.
Truck Manufacturer Liability
Truck manufacturers can be held liable for a truck accident if it is determined that a defect with the truck contributed to the accident. For example, if the truck was equipped with defective brakes that failed to stop the truck in time to avoid a collision, the truck manufacturer can be held responsible for the accident.
It is essential to conduct a detailed investigation into the parts and overall mechanism of a truck following an accident. Identifying manufacturing flaws or substandard components can be critical in asserting liability. This process often involves the assistance of mechanical engineers who can analyze whether the truck's systems failed due to inherent defects rather than external circumstances, which can significantly strengthen legal claims against manufacturers.
Truck Cargo Liability
In some cases, the company responsible for loading the truck's cargo can be held liable for a truck accident. For example, if the cargo was not properly secured and fell off the truck, causing an accident, the company responsible for loading the truck's cargo can be held responsible. Additionally, if the cargo was improperly loaded and caused the truck to tip over or jackknife, the company can be held liable for any resulting accidents.
Proper cargo loading involves not only securing goods but also balancing weight distribution to help prevent accidents. Detailed examination of cargo protocols and records can reveal lapses in proper safety procedures that could shift liability to the load handlers. Holding these entities accountable encourages stricter adherence to safety standards, ultimately reducing the risks posed by improperly managed cargo on the roads.
FAQs About Truck Accidents
What Should I Do Immediately After a Truck Accident in Corpus Christi?
Immediately following a truck accident, ensure your safety and that of others around you. Call emergency services to report the accident and seek medical attention, even if injuries are not immediately apparent. Document the scene, if it is safe to do so, and gather contact information for witnesses and involved parties. Avoid discussing fault or speaking with insurance adjusters until you have spoken with an attorney. Early legal involvement helps protect your rights from the outset. Reach out to a qualified truck accident attorney at our firm right away.
How Can Gonzales Law Firm Help After a Truck Accident?
Our team at Gonzales Law Firm offers personalized legal support and strategic guidance at every stage of your truck accident claim. We collaborate with industry professionals to reconstruct accidents and analyze evidence, taking a comprehensive approach to holding negligent parties accountable. Our attorneys are committed to clear communication, providing insight and answers to guide you toward an informed resolution.
Are Truck Accidents Common in Corpus Christi?
Given the heavy commercial traffic linked to the Port of Corpus Christi and surrounding major highways, truck accidents are a notable concern in the area. The mix of local, industrial, and tourist traffic contributes to increased accident risk. Understanding this local context is important for strategic claim management, as our firm stays aware of local trends and infrastructure projects that may influence traffic flow and safety.
What Are Common Causes of Truck Accidents?
Common causes include driver fatigue, mechanical failure, and improper cargo loading. The sheer size and weight of trucks impose significant risks, especially when operating with poor maintenance or inadequately secured cargo. Our legal team examines these factors to identify negligence or violations of safety standards, building a case that addresses each cause and its effects.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Truck Accident Claim in Texas?
In Texas, the statute of limitations to file a personal injury claim, including truck accident claims, is typically two years from the date of the accident. Filing within this timeframe is crucial to preserve your right to seek compensation. Our attorneys can guide you through this timeline, emphasizing prompt action so you do not lose eligibility for potential recovery. Swift action also helps preserve valuable evidence that can strengthen your claim. Speak with a truck accident lawyer at Gonzales Law Firm as soon as you can.
Experienced Truck Accident Attorneys On Your Side in Corpus Christi
At Gonzales Law Firm, we know how to handle truck accident cases and have a proven record of success. We understand the laws governing truck accidents and can help you understand your rights and legal options. Our Corpus Christi truck accident lawyers can help you file a claim and pursue the compensation you deserve. We can help you understand your legal options and make an informed decision about how to proceed with your case.
What sets our firm apart is our comprehensive approach to client engagement. From the initial consultation, you will be informed about the step-by-step process surrounding your case, ensuring that no detail is overlooked. We prioritize transparent communication, allowing you to feel supported and reassured throughout the legal journey. Our careful preparation and persistence in negotiations make us strong advocates who are committed to addressing your unique needs and pursuing the outcomes you seek.
Because we are a local, family-owned practice, you work directly with experienced attorneys rather than being passed from person to person. When you hire a commercial truck accident attorney Corpus Christi residents trust, you can expect us to take the time to learn how the crash has affected your health, your work, and your family life. That personal knowledge allows us to present a fuller picture of your losses to the insurance company or, when needed, to a Nueces County jury.
Our team is also familiar with the local courts, judges, and defense firms that often appear in truck accident litigation. This insight helps us anticipate how the other side may approach your case and how certain legal arguments are likely to be received. From gathering records at local hospitals to coordinating with investigators who know key roadways like State Highway 44 and Interstate 69E, we draw on local resources to build strong cases for our clients.
Common Types of Commercial Truck Crashes We Handle
Not every truck wreck looks the same, and the kind of crash you were involved in often shapes the injuries you suffer and the legal issues your case presents. In and around Corpus Christi, collisions can happen on congested streets near the Port of Corpus Christi, on rural stretches of highway, or on busy corridors like Interstate 37 and U.S. 77. We handle a wide range of cases so we can address the unique challenges that come with each type of impact and roadway.
Some crashes involve a single passenger vehicle and a large truck, while others may include multiple cars, motorcycles, or pedestrians. Jackknife incidents, underride crashes, and rollovers can raise questions about braking systems, speed, or improper cargo loading. Rear-end collisions at intersections in Corpus Christi may point to distracted driving or following too closely, while wide turns downtown can lead to sideswipe or squeeze accidents that trap smaller vehicles in blind spots. We work methodically to evaluate how and why a collision happened so that all causes are explored.
We also see cases involving 18-wheelers, local delivery trucks, tanker trucks, and vehicles hauling equipment to and from industrial sites. Each of these commercial vehicles operates under specific safety rules and presents different risks to people in smaller cars. By understanding how big rigs are designed to handle, how loads should be secured, and what federal and Texas regulations apply, we are able to tailor our approach to the facts of your crash rather than treating every accident the same way.
How Our Firm Investigates Tractor-Trailer and Big Rig Accidents
A strong truck accident claim starts with a thorough investigation, and acting quickly can make a real difference in the evidence available. After a serious collision involving a tractor-trailer or other big rig, the trucking company and its insurer may send their own team to the scene to begin building a defense. Our role is to step in for you and help make sure that critical information is collected and preserved before it can be altered or lost.
When we investigate a crash, we look beyond the basic police report. We seek out electronic logging data, onboard computer records, and information from the truck's engine control module that can show speed, braking, and hours of service leading up to the impact. We also review maintenance records, driver qualification files, and company policies that may reveal patterns of unsafe practices. In the Corpus Christi area, that may include examining weigh station records and shipping documents tied to routes serving the Port of Corpus Christi and nearby industrial facilities.
We frequently work with accident reconstruction professionals who can analyze skid marks, vehicle damage, and roadway design to help explain how a crash unfolded. Witness interviews, photographs, and video from nearby businesses or traffic cameras can fill in important gaps. By combining this technical analysis with your medical records and a clear picture of how your life has changed, we build a case that tells your story in a way that is clear and persuasive for insurance adjusters, mediators, and, when necessary, a Nueces County jury.
Move forward with a proven Corpus Christi truck accident lawyer
Time matters after a truck crash. Gonzales Law Firm secures black box data, tracks down witnesses, and pressures insurers before evidence goes cold. Put five decades of experience to work to protect your rights, document your losses, and pursue maximum compensation without delay.
Make the trucking company pay. Call (361) 309-4243. Gonzales Law Firm moves fast to lock down black box data and force full compensation. Free case review.
