Commercial trucking is the lifeblood of the American economy. In fact, statistics show that nearly every physical good that hits U.S. shelves is transported by truck at some point.
As a result, truckers hauled nearly three-fourths of all freight transported in the United States in 2019. The industry earned nearly $8 billion during that same year, representing 80.4% of America’s shipping costs.
The ubiquity of the trucking industry also means that trucks will be involved in auto accidents at some point. Commercial trucks are big and heavy, and this means they can cause a lot of damage.
If you are injured in a trucking accident, you are likely wondering who will pay for your damages and what are the first steps on the road to recovery. At the Zimmerman Law Firm, our Round Rock truck accident lawyers are here to help.
Commercial Trucking Accident Statistics
The facts are clear: big truck wrecks are on the rise. Since 2009, trucking accident fatalities have seen a 52% increase. The more scary statistic is that 97% of the fatalities were people riding in passenger vehicles like cars and SUVs, not commercial truck drivers.
When 18-wheelers can weigh between 10,000 and 14,000 pounds, serious injury or death is more likely. While not all commercial trucks are huge semis, the facts still show that commercial trucks get into more accidents than the average car or truck.
What Kind of Lawyer Do I Need?
Auto accident claims are often handled by personal injury attorneys. But when searching for a Round Rock truck accident lawyer, consider experience and specialization as well.
Trucking accidents involve complicated liability issues that may include several insurance companies, the truck driver, the trucking company, and more. This is why it is important to find an experienced truck accident attorney in Round Rock.
Why You Should Choose the Zimmerman Law Firm as Your Round Rock Truck Accident Attorney
As stated above, commercial trucking accidents have a number of potential complications as compared to your average auto accident. At the Zimmerman Law Firm, we have the experience to handle the trucking companies, insurance companies, and other parties.
Our team of lawyers isn’t afraid to take on the big companies and insurance carriers and knows how to build a strong case to give you the best shot at recovery.
We can fight to negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf, but we are certainly ready to take your case to trial if necessary.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit?
A potential plaintiff has only a certain amount of time to file a legal lawsuit like a personal injury truck accident claim. For most auto (and trucking) accidents, this is two years from the date of the incident. In legal language, this is called the statute of limitations.
There may be certain situations where that time limit may be extended, but promptly seeking the help of an 18-wheeler accident lawyer in Round Rock after a wreck is the best way to avoid running up against the clock. Failing to bring a lawsuit within this limit can result in a plaintiff being barred from bringing their claim.
What Compensation Is Available for a Round Rock Trucking Accident Claim?
One of the primary worries after a trucking accident is how you will be able to pay your bills with medical expenses and other damages. This is especially worrisome if you are unable to work. But when you are injured due to someone else’s negligence, you are entitled to seek fair compensation. There are two main categories for damages in Texas personal injury claims.
Economic Damages
This refers to the measurable monetary losses you suffer as the result of your trucking accident. They may include:
- Past and future medical expenses;
- Lost income;
- Property damage (your vehicle most commonly);
- Loss of earning capacity; and
- Loss of household contribution (economic value of the services you perform in your own home or for your family).
These are the most commonly awarded damages in a truck wreck case.
Noneconomic Damages
Noneconomic damages include compensation for the more subjective, but by no means less important, injuries a plaintiff sustained in the accident. These include:
- Physical pain and suffering;
- Mental, psychological, or emotional suffering;
- Loss of enjoyment of life;
- Disfigurement; and
- Loss of consortium (relationship losses).
In some situations, it is necessary to bring in experts to help determine a fair value for a victim’s injuries. Contact us to talk to a semi-truck accident lawyer in Round Rock, We can answer any questions you may have and help you estimate the value of your damages.
Injured in a Trucking Accident in Round Rock? Contact the Zimmerman Law Firm Today
If you were injured in a trucking accident in Round Rock or another place in central Texas, you are entitled to seek compensation. The team at The Zimmerman Law Firm team has over 80 years of combined legal experience, and we are here to help.
We will fight on your behalf with our knowledge of Texas personal injury law and expertise with trucking accident cases to get you the compensation that you deserve. Let us help you on the road to physical and financial recovery.
Call us at (254) 752-9688 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today.