If you have been injured in a commercial vehicle accident, you aren’t alone. Every day, more than a million cars take to the road in San Antonio, and with that number going up by as many as 150 new vehicles each day, accidents involving commercial vehicles are bound to happen. Bexar County has the third-highest rate of commercial vehicle accidents in Texas after Harris and Dallas Counties.
While a typical accident involving passenger vehicles can be traumatic, an accident involving a commercial vehicle can be much more severe. Many victims must deal with life-threatening injuries that require ongoing medical care and rehabilitation for years after the accident.
Having a team of experienced lawyers like the ones at Cesar Ornelas Injury Law is so important. We understand that it can be tough after an accident, which is why we not only fight the legal battle, but we help victims of San Antonio commercial vehicle accidents throughout the process of getting their lives back in order.
Starting with your free consultation, our legal professionals work with you to make sure you get the best medical care and that everything is correctly documented for later. We’ll deal with the insurance companies and their adjusters, so you don’t have to. From investigating the accident to negotiating the best settlement according to the Texas negligence laws, our professional personal injury attorneys fight for your rights and protect your best interests every step of the way so you can focus on your recovery. Call us today at 210-957-2103 for a free consultation. Let us help you get your life back on track and secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Understanding Commercial Vehicle Accidents in San Antonio
Commercial vehicles are a common sight in San Antonio, essential for daily life and the local economy. With over 400,000 accidents involving large trucks happening nationwide each year, and 5,788 lives lost in these incidents, the risks posed by these vehicles are significant. Victims of these accidents often face immediate injuries and long-term challenges, making it crucial to handle truck accident claims carefully. Besides just 18-wheelers and large semi-trucks, other commercial vehicles pose severe dangers to San Antonio drivers, including the following:
- Delivery trucks
- Fleet vehicles (taxi cabs, limousines, party buses)
- Buses, including city or school buses
- Garbage trucks
- Utility trucks
- Repair company trucks and vans
- Construction vehicles
- Flatbed trucks
- Tanker trucks
These kinds of large commercial vehicles are often massive, difficult to control, and have large blind spots. In many cases, drivers are unable to prevent an accident once something starts to go wrong.
The complex nature of liability in trucking accidents involves detailed lease agreements, strict federal regulations like hours-of-service rules, and intricate contractual relationships. At Cesar Ornelas Injury Law, we tackle these issues head-on. We handle cases involving various commercial vehicles, from heavy equipment haulers to common 18-wheelers.
Common Types of Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Commercial vehicle accidents come in many forms, each presenting unique risks. Rollover and jackknife accidents, where trucks fold onto themselves or overturn, are particularly violent and often lead to significant truck accident injuries. These incidents are not solely the result of driver error; they can also emerge from improperly loaded cargo that inhibits a driver’s control.
Defective vehicle parts and failing brakes are hidden dangers that can lead to severe accidents, involving multiple parties who may be at fault. An experienced truck accident lawyer from Cesar Ornelas Injury Law investigates these mechanical failures thoroughly to protect the rights of accident victims. Discovering the cause of an accident is not just about finding fault—it’s about seeking justice and preventing future tragedies.
Why You Need a Skilled San Antonio Truck Accident Attorney
The journey towards justice begins when the dust settles at the accident scene. Engaging a skilled San Antonio truck accident attorney is not just helpful but essential. With state and federal regulations affecting trucking cases, only an attorney with experience can handle the legal process and ensure the protection of your interests. It’s about building a solid foundation for your truck accident claim, one that can withstand the scrutiny of the court and the tactics of insurance companies.
At Cesar Ornelas Injury Law, we offer:
- Experienced personal injury attorneys available 24/7
- Personalized support and guidance through every stage of the legal process
- Simplifying the legal complexities
- Ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve
Think of us as your dedicated partners on the path to recovery.
Our Approach to Commercial Vehicle Accident Claims
No two truck accidents are the same, and neither should be the approach to their respective claims. At Cesar Ornelas Injury Law, we customize our legal strategy to align with the unique narrative of each client’s case. By collecting and scrutinizing evidence ranging from police reports to eyewitness accounts and expert testimony, we construct a compelling argument that highlights the truth of your experience.
Although the claims process may seem daunting, our law firm’s dedication to your cause will provide comfort. We don’t just represent you; we advocate for you, ensuring that every facet of your claim is meticulously addressed. From the insurance company negotiations to the courtroom representation, our law firm stands as your champion, determined to secure the justice and compensation you need to rebuild your life.
What Victims Should Know After a Truck Accident
After an accident, your priority is safety—checking for injuries and moving to a secure area if possible. Engaging your hazard lights can signal distress to other motorists and help prevent further accidents. What follows is a critical chain of actions:
- Contacting local authorities to log an official report, essential for both insurance claims and potential legal action.
- Gathering evidence such as photos and witness accounts, which are invaluable in supporting your case.
- Getting a medical evaluation is essential, even if injuries seem minor at the moment.
Some conditions, such as internal injuries or post-traumatic stress, might not manifest immediately but can have far-reaching consequences. This initial medical documentation is necessary for your accident claim, establishing the extent of harm suffered and aiding in securing appropriate compensation.
Catastrophic Injuries and Long-Term Care Needs
The impact of a truck accident can echo through a lifetime, particularly when catastrophic injuries come into play. Traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and other severe conditions can drastically alter the course of a victim’s life, necessitating long-term care and significant medical intervention. It’s in these situations that a life care plan becomes indispensable, offering a map for the victim’s ongoing care needs, including:
- Medical treatments
- Rehabilitation therapies
- Medications
- Assistive devices
- Home modifications
- Personal care assistance
- Vocational rehabilitation
Identifying Liable Parties in a Trucking Accident
Pursuing justice in a trucking accident involves pinpointing the various parties that may be responsible for the incident. These could include:
- The truck driver, whose error or negligence may have precipitated the event
- The trucking company itself
- The manufacturers of the vehicle, if defective parts played a role
Driver error, particularly dangerous practices like speeding or texting while driving, is often most common in these cases. The contributing factors can be numerous, including inadequate truck maintenance or failure to adhere to required safety protocols. It’s the role of an experienced truck accident attorney to dissect these elements, assembling a case that not only seeks compensation but also champions greater accountability and safety on our roads.
The Impact of Truck Driver Fatigue
One of the most insidious contributors to truck accidents is driver fatigue. The long hours behind the wheel can take a heavy toll on truck drivers, leading to exhaustion that impairs their ability to operate their vehicles safely. This fatigue, often worsened by skipped rest periods and inaccurate logbooks, increases the risk of accidents, endangering not just the truck drivers but everyone sharing the road with them.
At Cesar Ornelas Injury Law, we’re aware of the devastating impact that truck driver fatigue can have. It’s a factor we investigate thoroughly, understanding that it’s not just about the immediate consequences of a crash but also the broader implications for trucking industry practices. Our legal team is committed to:
- Holding all responsible parties accountable
- Ensuring that victims receive justice
- Taking steps to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future.
Recovering Damages: Your Rights as an Accident Victim
As a trucking accident victim, you have a right to compensation for the multitude of losses. This compensation may cover the tangible costs, such as vehicle repairs or replacement and medical expenses, as well as the intangible, like pain and suffering. The pursuit of fair compensation is a fundamental right, one that can provide a lifeline during recovery and rebuilding your life.
The scope of your compensation is not limited to immediate costs. Catastrophic injuries, for instance, necessitate a life care plan that estimates the claim’s full value, addressing potential loss of earning capacity and future employability.
A life care plan takes into account the individual needs and goals of the victim, as well as the recommendations of medical professionals and experts. It provides a detailed outline of the necessary care and services, along with estimated costs, to ensure that the victim receives the support they need for the rest of their life.
Creating such a plan is a meticulous process, involving a thorough assessment and review of all medical documentation. It may even require a home visit by professionals to fully understand the victim’s new reality and the support they will need moving forward.
In cases of particularly reckless or intentional conduct, punitive damages may be awarded as a means of deterring similar behavior in the future. Whether you receive compensation as a lump sum or through structured settlements, our goal at Cesar Ornelas Injury Law is to ensure that the settlement reflects the full extent of your losses and serves to facilitate a brighter tomorrow. We recognize the gravity of these life-altering injuries and the importance of securing adequate compensation to cover all facets of care.
Economic vs. Non-Economic Damages
In personal injury claims, damages are categorized into two distinct types—economic and non-economic. Economic damages are the calculable financial losses you’ve incurred as a result of the accident, such as medical bills and lost wages. These are typically substantiated with concrete evidence like receipts and financial statements. On the other hand, non-economic damages relate to the more subjective impacts of the accident—emotional distress, pain, and suffering—that, while less tangible, are no less real.
The pursuit of non-economic damages, which can significantly increase the overall value of your personal injury claim, is a nuanced process. Unlike economic damages, they’re substantiated through more subjective means—testimonials, mental health records, and the personal narrative of how the accident has impacted your life. As your legal representatives, we at Cesar Ornelas Injury Law understand the profound effects these injuries have on your well-being, and we’re dedicated to ensuring that every aspect of your suffering is recognized and compensated.
Legal Timelines: Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim
With personal injury claims, time is of the essence. In Texas, you have a two-year statute of limitations to file a claim following a truck accident. From the date of the accident, each tick of the clock is a reminder of the need to move swiftly to protect your rights and secure your future.
Unique circumstances, such as the responsible party leaving the state, can affect this timeline, potentially extending the opportunity to file a claim. Engaging with an experienced truck accident attorney early on ensures that every deadline is met and that your claim is positioned for success from the very start.
How We Fight for Maximum Compensation for Injury Victims
The fight to secure maximum compensation for injury victims requires a legal team that’s not only used to dealing with insurance companies but also unafraid to take the fight to court when necessary. At Cesar Ornelas Injury Law, our relentless pursuit of full and fair compensation is a testament to our dedication to your rights and well-being.
Our track record of successful settlements and verdicts speaks volumes about our commitment to our clients. We understand that the compensation you receive is not just about addressing past losses but also about ensuring a stable and secure future. From the negotiation table to the courtroom, we leverage our experience, resources, and tenacity to fight for the justice you deserve, ensuring that you are never left to shoulder the burden of someone else’s negligence alone.
No Win, No Fee: Our Contingency Fee Basis
Our commitment to justice is deeply rooted in our contingency fee basis, a client-friendly approach that ties our success to your own. With no upfront fees, we ensure that financial concerns never stand in the way of your pursuit of justice. It’s a simple promise: you only pay legal fees if we win your case and secure the compensation you deserve. To get started, take advantage of our free consultation.
This arrangement not only provides peace of mind but also reflects our confidence in our ability to represent you effectively. As a common practice, personal injury attorneys, including our team at Cesar Ornelas Injury Law, typically receive a prearranged percentage of the settlement amount—ensuring that our interests are directly tied to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
Client-Centered Service: Your Experience With Cesar Ornelas Injury Law
As soon as you step through our doors, you’ll discern the uniqueness of Cesar Ornelas Injury Law. Our clients often commend us for our professional handling of their cases and the clear, consistent communication we maintain throughout the legal process. We know that navigating the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, which is why we prioritize a compassionate and understanding approach to each unique situation.
Our clients’ testimonials frequently highlight our staff’s friendliness and efficiency, our swift case resolutions, and our genuine empathy for the challenges they face. We pride ourselves on the honesty, communicativeness, and respect we provide, fostering a high level of trust and ensuring that you feel heard and valued every step of the way. It’s this client-centered service that forms the core of our practice and the foundation of our success in pursuing justice on behalf of those we represent.
Our dedicated team of attorneys is committed to providing leading legal representation in these areas, ensuring that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve:
- Personal injury
- Auto accidents
- Commercial vehicles
- Motorcycle accidents
- Wrongful death
- Workplace injuries
- Trucking accidents
- Spinal injuries
- Aviation accidents
- Brain injuries
- Oil field accidents
- Oil rig accidents
- Oil refinery accidents
- Catastrophic injuries
- Premises liability
- Product liability
Contact Us for Your Commercial Vehicle Accident Case
At Cesar Ornelas Injury Law, we are committed to fighting for your rights and helping you achieve the justice and compensation you deserve. Don't let the aftermath of a commercial vehicle accident overwhelm you. If you’re hurt in an accident, you’re entitled to compensation. In Texas, there is no limit on what you can claim regarding your pain & suffering, so get legal assistance and get the most from your claim.
Reach out to us today for personalized support and dedicated legal representation. Call us now at 210-957-2103 for a free consultation. Let us be your trusted partner in getting your life back on track and securing the best possible outcome for your case.
Answers to your most commonly asked questions
What should I do immediately after a commercial vehicle accident?
After ensuring your safety and the safety of others, call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. It's crucial to document the scene by taking photos and gathering contact information from witnesses. Avoid making any statements about fault and contact a lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case.
How can I prove that the commercial vehicle driver was at fault?
Proving fault in a commercial vehicle accident often requires gathering various forms of evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage. Your lawyer may also consult with accident reconstruction experts to analyze the scene and vehicle damage. Additionally, obtaining the driver's logbooks and maintenance records can provide insight into potential violations or negligence.
What types of compensation can I receive after a commercial vehicle accident?
Victims of commercial vehicle accidents may be entitled to several types of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Additionally, you may seek compensation for non-economic damages like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded if the driver's conduct was particularly reckless.
How long does it take to settle a commercial vehicle accident claim?
The duration of a commercial vehicle accident claim varies depending on the complexity of the case and the willingness of the parties to negotiate. While some claims may settle within a few months, others may take years to resolve, especially if they go to trial. Your lawyer will keep you informed about the progress of your case and any potential timelines.
Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes, you can still file a claim even if you were partially at fault for the accident. Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means you can recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault, so it's essential to consult with a lawyer to understand how this may impact your case.
