Common causes
Each accident is different. A careful review can show how the injury happened and who may be responsible. Common causes include:
- Tired or distracted truck drivers
- Unsafe speed or following too close
- Poor loading or loose cargo
- Bad brakes, tires, or truck repairs
Evidence that may help
Evidence can be lost or changed. Photos, video, records, and witness details should be saved as soon as it is safe to do so.
- Truck data and dash camera video
- Driver logs and phone records
- Inspection and repair files
- Cargo, hiring, and training records
Motor-carrier liability and federal safety records
A commercial truck case may involve direct negligence by the driver and separate claims against a motor carrier. Issues can include negligent hiring, training, supervision, maintenance, loading, and entrustment. Whether the driver was acting within the course and scope of employment can affect vicarious liability.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations may govern hours of service, driver qualification, inspections, maintenance, and cargo securement. A violation can be important evidence, but the plaintiff must still connect the violation to the crash and injury. Electronic logging device data and engine-control information may be overwritten, so a prompt preservation letter can matter.
Many Texas injury lawsuits must be filed within two years. Some claims have shorter notice rules or different deadlines. A claim against a city or other government body may require fast written notice. It is wise to have the deadline checked early.
What may be recovered?
Truck crash injuries may lead to long hospital stays, missed work, future care, pain, impairment, or death. A full claim should address both current and future harm.