Bad weather truck accidents in Beaumont can be serious incidents. Truck drivers may not see other vehicles in the conditions or may lose control of their semi-trailers.
Recovering compensation after this type of crash can be challenging, particularly when weather conditions make it unclear who is at fault. It may be crucial to seek assistance from an experienced truck collision attorney. If you suffered injuries in a bad weather truck crash, a knowledgeable lawyer could review how it occurred and explain your options for securing fair compensation.
Why Do Bad Weather Collisions Occur?
Beaumont experiences different types of bad weather that can cause truck collisions, including fog and hurricanes. High winds, especially, can make it hard for truck drivers to maintain control of big rigs and even cause them to tip over. Rain can make roads slippery, and heavy rain or fog can reduce visibility.
In any of these situations, drivers may either lose control of their vehicles or miss hazards that lead to collisions. When truckers fail to slow down or get off the road, they may be held responsible for failing to use care while operating their vehicles.
Common Types of Truck Accidents Resulting From Bad Weather
Various types of truck accidents may result from bad weather, whether because of low visibility or loss of control. Some common bad weather truck collisions include:
- Rear-end accidents
- Blind-spot accidents
- Wide-turn accidents
- T-bone accidents
- Jackknife accidents
- Rollover accidents
- Underride or override accidents
Due to semi-trucks’ size and weight, the resulting vehicle damage and injuries can be severe, so seeking financial compensation if you are the victim of one of these accidents is vital.
What Compensation Is Available After a Truck Crash?
People who have suffered injuries in truck accidents may be able to recover compensation, and typically, economic and non-economic damages are available. Financial losses may result from vehicle damage, lost wages, and medical bills. Different categories of non-financial losses include pain and suffering, loss of consortium, and emotional distress.
There is no cap on recovery, so the amount of compensation usually depends on the type of injuries and the party’s responsibility for the collision. Texas uses a fault-based system for motor vehicle accidents, meaning the driver who caused the crash is responsible for the damages. The state also has a modified comparative negligence rule allowing a party to recover compensation only if they are 50 percent or less at fault for the wreck. The recovery will be reduced by the assigned percentage of fault.
If you suffered injuries in a Beaumont bad weather truck crash, identifying who is at fault can be challenging. Having an experienced personal injury lawyer assist you with your claim could be essential to your fight for a full and fair recovery.
What To Expect When Filing a Truck Accident Claim
Filing a claim for your bad weather truck accident involves multiple steps. It may not be as simple as filing a claim with the truck company’s insurance provider. Large truck claims can be complex and can possibly involve the trucker, the trucking company, the loader, and even the truck manufacturer. You will be at a disadvantage if you lack in-depth knowledge of the trucking industry and laws.
Gathering evidence related to your accident’s cause and the resulting damages is a key aspect of the claims process. This information must be presented persuasively with your claim and could be critical during settlement negotiations. Insurance companies may try to deny or minimize your claim, so legal help is crucial.
If settlement negotiations fail, filing a lawsuit and going to court may be necessary. You may decide to have experienced trial attorneys represent you inside and outside the courtroom, filing motions and managing the many steps of the litigation process.
Contact Our Beaumont Legal Team After a Bad Weather Truck Wreck
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a truck crash during inclement weather, you should start working on your claim immediately. Our experienced personal injury attorneys at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris have considerable experience in handling cases involving bad weather truck accidents in Beaumont and throughout Texas. Contacting our law firm could be your first step to securing just compensation, so call us today for a free consultation about your legal options.
