Commercial vehicle accidents in Fort Worth, Texas, are often more severe than typical car accidents, given the size and weight of these vehicles. Determining what caused the accident and proving fault are critical steps in seeking compensation for your injuries and losses.
Common Causes of Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Fort Worth
Fort Worth’s busy highways, like I-35W and I-30, and its growing commercial industry contribute to a high volume of commercial vehicle traffic. Accidents involving delivery trucks, semi-trucks, and other commercial vehicles often stem from specific factors:
Driver Fatigue
- Many commercial drivers work long hours to meet tight delivery schedules. Federal regulations, such as the Hours-of-Service rules, limit how long drivers can operate without rest, but violations are common.
- Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times and impaired decision-making, increasing the risk of accidents.
Distracted Driving
- Commercial drivers often use GPS, phones, or dispatch devices while driving, which can lead to distraction.
- Local Fort Worth roads with heavy traffic and complex intersections, like those near Sundance Square, make distractions even more dangerous.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
- Federal law requires commercial vehicles to undergo regular inspections and maintenance, but neglecting this responsibility can lead to brake failures, tire blowouts, or steering malfunctions.
- Overworked maintenance crews or cost-cutting measures by employers may contribute to these failures.
Improperly Loaded Cargo
- Overloaded or improperly secured cargo can shift during transport, causing the driver to lose control.
- Fort Worth’s distribution hubs and frequent use of commercial vehicles for local deliveries often make cargo-related issues a significant factor.
Traffic Law Violations
- Speeding, aggressive lane changes, and failure to yield are common causes of accidents involving commercial vehicles in Fort Worth.
- Local traffic hot spots, like the intersection of I-820 and SH 121, see frequent violations due to high congestion.
How to Prove Fault in a Commercial Vehicle Accident
Proving fault in a commercial vehicle accident can be more complex than in a standard car accident, as multiple parties may be involved. Here’s how to build a strong case:
Gathering Evidence at the Scene
- Take photos and videos of the accident scene, showing vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, and any injuries.
- Collect the driver’s information, including their employer’s name and the vehicle’s Department of Transportation (DOT) number.
- Obtain witness statements and their contact information.
Obtaining Critical Records
- Driver Logs and Records: Hours-of-service logs can reveal if the driver violated federal rest requirements.
- Black Box Data: Many commercial vehicles are equipped with data recorders that track speed, braking, and other critical details.
- Maintenance Logs: These records can show if the vehicle was properly maintained or if mechanical issues were ignored.
Consulting Accident Reconstruction Experts
- Experts can analyze evidence such as vehicle damage, road conditions, and impact angles to determine what caused the accident.
- In Fort Worth, local attorneys often work with these professionals to strengthen their clients’ claims.
Investigating Employer Negligence
- Employers may be liable if they failed to properly train the driver, pressured them to violate safety regulations, or neglected vehicle maintenance.
- Reviewing company policies, hiring practices, and training records can uncover signs of negligence.
Why Fault Matters in Fort Worth
Fort Worth, like the rest of Texas, follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means:
- If you are found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
- If you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover\.
For example:
- If your damages total $100,000 and you are found 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced to $80,000.
- Proving fault accurately is critical to maximizing your recovery.
Steps to Take After a Commercial Vehicle Accident in Fort Worth
To protect your claim and improve your chances of securing compensation, follow these steps:
Call the Police
The Fort Worth Police Department will create an official report documenting the accident, which can be valuable evidence.
Seek Medical Attention
Visit a doctor immediately, even if you feel fine. Injuries from commercial vehicle accidents can worsen over time.
Contact an Attorney
A local Fort Worth attorney can guide you through the legal process, negotiate with insurers, and represent you in court if necessary.
How a Fort Worth Attorney Can Help
Proving fault in a commercial vehicle accident often requires legal expertise. An experienced Fort Worth attorney can:
Investigate Thoroughly:
- Request and analyze critical records like black box data, driver logs, and employer policies.
- Work with accident reconstruction experts to determine the cause of the crash.
Negotiate with Insurers:
Commercial insurance companies are known for aggressive tactics to minimize payouts. Your attorney can counter these efforts and fight for fair compensation.
Represent You in Court:
If a settlement cannot be reached, an attorney can present a compelling case in court, using evidence and expert testimony to support your claim.
Conclusion
Commercial vehicle accidents in Fort Worth often result from preventable causes, such as driver fatigue, poor maintenance, or distracted driving. Proving fault in these cases requires thorough investigation, careful evidence collection, and legal expertise. If you’ve been injured in a commercial vehicle accident, don’t face the challenges alone. Contact a Fort Worth attorney who understands the complexities of these cases and can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
