Odessa Truck Accident Attorney

Truck Accident Attorney For Injured Victims in Odessa, Texas

Semi-truck crashes can cause extensive damage to vehicles, and they can inflict devastating injuries. After being seriously injured in a truck wreck, victims can take the crucial step of seeking legal representation from an experienced personal injury attorney. This can ensure that their rights will be protected as they pursue compensation for the harm caused by a negligent truck driver or trucking company. At James Kennedy, P.L.L.C., we understand the complex nature of commercial truck accident cases. We have a track record of success when representing victims and helping them stand up against large trucking and insurance companies. We can assist with truck wreck cases such as:

Rear-End Collisions

While rear-end accidents between two passenger vehicles will often be relatively minor, the same is not true in cases involving semi-trucks. When a truck driver fails to maintain a safe following distance, they may be unable to avoid colliding with a vehicle that slows down or stops suddenly. People in a vehicle that is struck from behind by a commercial truck may suffer serious injuries or fatalities.

Jackknife Accidents

This type of crash often happens when a truck driver brakes suddenly on slippery roads or loses control due to high speeds or equipment failure. The trailer of a semi-truck may swing wide and become caught against the cab of the truck. Because a large trailer may block the road or strike other vehicles, jackknife accidents can lead to multi-vehicle collisions and severe injuries.

Underride Accidents

When a smaller vehicle collides with the rear or side of a semi-truck, it may slide underneath the larger vehicle, resulting in extensive damage and harm to a driver or passengers. These accidents may occur when trailers do not have the proper underride guards. Underride accidents often result in catastrophic head injuries or even decapitation for occupants in passenger vehicles.

T-Bone Collisions

In a T-bone accident, a semi-truck may crash into another vehicle at a perpendicular angle, forming a "T" shape upon impact. A truck driver may collide with another vehicle because they committed traffic violations at an intersection, such as running a red light. T-bone collisions can also occur if truck drivers attempt to enter traffic from a side road or driveway without taking care to ensure that a road is clear. These accidents have high fatality rates, since the direct impact of a massive truck on vulnerable areas of a smaller vehicle, such as car doors or passenger compartments, is likely to cause a great deal of damage.

Truck Rollovers

Commercial trucks may carry heavy cargo, making them top-heavy and more likely to roll over when a truck driver loses control. A rollover accident may occur when a truck driver takes turns too quickly, overcorrects during steering maneuvers, or encounters uneven road surfaces. An overturned semi-truck trailer can block multiple lanes and cause chain-reaction collisions with other vehicles.

Liability for Commercial Truck Crashes

Multiple parties may be liable for truck wrecks. In addition to truck drivers who act negligently, trucking companies that fail to follow the proper safety measures and trucking regulations may be responsible for injuries suffered in collisions. Some of the most common reasons why truck drivers, trucking companies, or other entities may be found liable for truck accidents include:

• Driver error - Poorly trained drivers who lack proper knowledge about handling large commercial vehicles may fail to drive safely. Inadequate training may lead to errors in braking techniques, negotiating turns safely, responding to adverse weather conditions effectively, and maintaining proper control over the vehicle at all times. Even when drivers have received the proper training, they may engage in unsafe behaviors such as distracted driving, drowsy driving, intoxicated driving, speeding, or aggressive driving such as tailgating and unsafe lane changes.
• Mechanical failures - Faulty or poorly maintained truck equipment can contribute to catastrophic semi-truck crashes. Brake failures are one of the most common mechanical issues. Tire blowouts, defective steering systems, or faulty suspension components can also play a role in causing accidents if they are not addressed promptly through regular inspections and maintenance protocols.
• Improper loading and securing cargo - If cargo is not loaded properly onto trailers or secured adequately with straps or chains, it can shift during transport. Unbalanced weight distribution or unsecured cargo can lead to instability, potentially causing a truck to lose control or tip over. Cargo may also fall from a truck and land on other vehicles or create large, dangerous obstacles, leading to collisions.

Contact Our Odessa Truck Accident Attorney

Following a truck wreck, our experienced team will perform a thorough investigation to gather evidence that proves liability. If necessary, we will work with accident reconstruction experts to establish fault based on driver negligence or equipment failure. We can assist with insurance claims and take legal action to recover compensation from all liable parties. To learn how we can help truck accident victims, contact us at 915-544-5200 and set up a complimentary consultation.