Commercial vehicle accidents in Plano can involve large trucks, delivery vehicles, or rideshare cars, and they can be more complicated than standard car accidents. In a city like Plano, where roads such as Preston Road and the Sam Rayburn Tollway are frequently traveled by commercial vehicles, knowing how to react in the moments after an accident is essential for your safety, legal protection, and ability to secure the compensation you deserve.
Understanding the Unique Challenges of Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Plano
Commercial vehicle accidents often present distinct challenges compared to regular car accidents, due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Here are a few reasons why these accidents require special attention:
- Multiple parties may be at fault: Liability could lie with the driver, their employer, or even third parties involved, such as the company responsible for maintaining the vehicle.
- Complex regulations: Commercial drivers are subject to stricter regulations regarding hours of service, maintenance standards, and safety procedures. Understanding these rules can be crucial in determining fault.
- Higher potential for serious injuries and damages: Commercial vehicles are large and heavy, which means accidents often lead to more severe injuries and extensive property damage.
Steps to Take After a Commercial Vehicle Accident in Plano
What you do immediately after an accident involving a commercial vehicle can have a significant impact on your ability to recover compensation. Here’s a guide to ensure you handle the situation effectively:
Ensure Your Safety
First, check for injuries and assess everyone’s condition, including yourself, your passengers, and others involved in the accident. Call 911 if medical attention is needed.
Move Vehicles to Safety
If the vehicles are still operational and it’s safe to do so, move them off the road to avoid blocking traffic. On busy streets like Preston Road, this is especially important to prevent further accidents.
Contact Law Enforcement
Call the Plano Police Department to report the accident. A police report is vital for documenting the incident and will serve as an important piece of evidence for your insurance claim and any legal action.
Collect Evidence
Document the scene as thoroughly as possible. Take photos of the accident, vehicle damages, road conditions, and any visible injuries. If the accident occurred near recognizable landmarks such as the Shops at Legacy, capture those as well to provide context.
Get Information from All Involved Parties
Collect the driver’s information, including their name, contact details, driver’s license number, and commercial driver’s license (CDL) number. Additionally, obtain the name of the company they work for and the vehicle’s USDOT number.
Talk to Witnesses
If there are any bystanders who witnessed the accident, ask for their contact information and if they are willing to provide statements.
Common Injuries in Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles, these accidents often result in more severe injuries. Some common injuries include:
- Spinal cord injuries: Serious accidents often lead to back and neck injuries, which may result in long-term or permanent paralysis.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Head impacts can cause cognitive impairments, requiring long-term medical care.
- Internal injuries: Injuries to vital organs often occur in high-impact crashes, potentially leading to internal bleeding.
- Bone fractures: These can happen during collisions, especially if the victim is thrown against the vehicle’s interior or other objects.
It’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention, even if you don't notice symptoms right away. Local hospitals such as Baylor Scott & White Medical Center or Medical City Plano are equipped to handle emergency care.
Determining Liability in Plano Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Liability in commercial vehicle accidents is often more complicated than in standard car accidents. Several parties could be responsible, including:
- The driver: If the driver was negligent or violated traffic laws (e.g., driving under the influence or exceeding the speed limit), they may be held accountable.
- The employer: The company that owns the vehicle or employs the driver could also be responsible, especially if the accident resulted from improper training, lack of maintenance, or insufficient safety measures.
- Third parties: Liability may extend to maintenance providers, cargo loaders, or even the manufacturer of the vehicle if equipment failure contributed to the accident.
An experienced attorney will help identify all responsible parties and ensure you receive fair compensation.
How to File a Commercial Vehicle Accident Claim in Plano
Filing a claim after a commercial vehicle accident involves several steps. Here’s a breakdown:
Obtain a police report
This report is crucial to document the accident and provide an official record for your insurance claim and legal proceedings.
Notify your insurance company
Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. Provide them with all the information you’ve collected, including photos, videos, and the police report.
Consult with a local attorney
Working with an attorney who specializes in commercial vehicle accidents can help you navigate the complex legal process and ensure your rights are protected.
Meet all deadlines
In Texas, personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the accident date, so it’s important to act promptly.
Why Hiring a Plano-Based Attorney is Essential for Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Hiring a local attorney in Plano can provide distinct advantages:
- Familiarity with Plano’s traffic patterns: Local attorneys understand the roads, traffic congestion, and accident-prone areas like Preston Road and I-20, helping them assess your case more accurately.
- Connections with local experts: Plano attorneys often work with accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, and other experts to build a stronger case.
- Experience with local courts: A Plano-based lawyer will be familiar with local court procedures, increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
Get the Compensation You Deserve After a Commercial Vehicle Accident in Plano
A commercial vehicle accident can be complicated, but by acting quickly, gathering key evidence, and working with a skilled attorney, you can improve your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. Don't let the complexities of a commercial vehicle accident in Plano leave you overwhelmed—take the necessary steps to protect your rights.
