McAllen, TX Truck Accident Attorney

Lawyer Providing Legal Representation for Victims of Semi-Truck Crashes in McAllen

Due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles, truck accidents can be serious. In McAllen, Texas, a major transportation hub near the U.S.-Mexico border, the risk of these collisions is high. The area's heavy truck traffic, which often involves the transport of goods and produce, increases the likelihood of accidents, especially when drivers or trucking companies act negligently.

If you or a loved one have been involved in a truck accident in McAllen, having a knowledgeable attorney by your side can ensure you can address issues related to medical bills, lost wages, and other hardships. James Kennedy, P.L.L.C. will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your crash and work to identify all responsible parties. With a deep understanding of the state and federal regulations governing the trucking industry, our experienced truck accident attorney can help you build a strong case.

Common Types of Truck Accidents in McAllen

Due to McAllen's geographic location and the high volume of interstate transportation, the area is prone to various types of truck wrecks. These incidents can result in severe injuries or even fatalities. Truck accidents may include:

• Rollover Accidents: These accidents occur when a truck loses balance, often due to abrupt turns, speeding, or unevenly loaded cargo. When a semi-truck rolls over, it may block multiple lanes of traffic, leading to catastrophic multi-vehicle collisions.
• Rear-End Collisions: Given their weight, trucks require a significantly longer distance to stop compared to smaller vehicles. If a truck driver is not paying attention or is following another vehicle too closely, they may be unable to stop in time.
• Underride Accidents: In this type of accident, a smaller vehicle becomes lodged beneath the trailer of a commercial truck. Due to the damage that may be caused in these types of accidents, drivers or passengers may experience catastrophic injuries or fatalities. Underride crashes can happen when a truck stops suddenly or when the trailer is not equipped with proper safety features.
• Tire Blowouts: The harsh weather conditions in South Texas, combined with long-distance hauls, place added strain on truck tires. A sudden tire blowout on a large truck can cause the driver to lose control, swerving into other lanes and potentially crashing into other vehicles. Tire blowouts are often the result of poor vehicle maintenance or manufacturing defects.

Liability in Big Rig Accidents

Establishing liability in a truck accident case is more complex than in a typical car accident due to the number of parties who may be involved. While negligence by a truck driver is often the immediate focus of these cases, other parties, such as trucking companies, cargo loaders, and vehicle manufacturers, may hold some responsibility. A truck wreck can occur due to factors such as:

• Driver Negligence: Truck drivers must adhere to strict regulations regarding rest periods, speed limits, and safety checks. Some drivers may neglect these rules to meet delivery deadlines or earn bonuses, which can lead to dangerous behaviors such as drowsy driving, speeding, or distracted driving.
• Negligent Trucking Companies: Shipping and freight companies are required to ensure that their vehicles are safe to operate and that their drivers are properly trained. However, some companies may cut corners to reduce costs. Negligence may involve failing to conduct routine inspections, hiring poorly trained drivers, or pressuring drivers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules.
• Improperly Loaded Cargo: When cargo is unevenly distributed or inadequately secured, it may shift during transit, increasing the risk of rollovers or jackknifing. Cargo that falls from a moving truck may cause serious harm if it strikes other vehicles. If improperly loaded cargo causes an accident, the party responsible for loading the truck may be held liable.

Recovering Compensation After a Truck Crash

The consequences of a truck accident can leave victims dealing with long-term medical treatment, loss of earning capacity, and emotional trauma. Compensation may address both economic and non-economic damages, including:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Physical impairment

Our McAllen truck accident attorney can help you calculate the full extent of your damages, and we will work to ensure that you will receive the compensation necessary to address all of your needs. We will work with medical experts and other professionals to substantiate your claims.

Contact Our McAllen, Texas Truck Wreck Lawyer

After a semi-truck crash, you should not have to bear the burden of recovery alone. James Kennedy, P.L.L.C. is here to offer the support and guidance you need. Call 915-544-5200 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward rebuilding your life after a devastating truck accident.