Austin, TXTruck Accident Lawyer

Accidents With Trucks Can Be Life Changing

The highways in and around Austin are busy – of that there is no question. The congestion increases yearly, as does the number of trucks on the roads. It stands to reason that more traffic leads to more accidents, many involving these large, oversized vehicles.

It is not surprising that accidents like this cause considerable damage. The size and weight differential between trucks and passenger vehicles is significant.  Even collisions at lower speeds can cause destruction, serious injury, or even death.

If you have been involved in an accident with a truck in or around Austin, you know just how devastating they can be.  The combination of the physical, emotional, and financial damage is overwhelming. And when the accident was caused by the negligent actions or inactions of someone else, it’s even more frustrating because it was avoidable.  That said, you may have recourse.

To learn more about this, reach out to our Austin truck accident lawyers at Evans/Reilley. We know how to handle personal injury actions that result from truck accidents in Austin and are ready to go to work for you immediately. Contact us today at (512) 732-2727 to schedule your free consultation.

Choosing the Right Firm to Represent You Is Critical

Why Engage Evans/Reilley Austin Truck Accident Attorneys?

When your accident with a truck resulted from another person or entity’s negligent actions or inactions, you are likely suffering. You may be in pain physically, overwhelmed emotionally, and concerned regarding the accident’s financial impact on your life. Recognizing that you have recourse is important, and identifying the right team of professionals to guide you through the complex legal process is the first decision you must make.

Engaging the right firm for you is essential; it can make a tangible difference both in the settlement you receive and the experience you have. We are proud that for many in and around Austin, we are the first choice in legal representation for truck accidents.  Consider why so many entrust their future to our team.

Experience: For more than two decades, our Austin team, led by board-certified attorney Chip Evans, has been handling truck accident cases. We understand what truck drivers and their employers are supposed to do and can ascertain when their behaviors become negligent. Additionally, we realize  that other factors involving negligence may also be relevant in your case. Finally, we recognize the trauma that truck accident victims sustain and are well-versed in identifying and quantifying their losses. Truck injury cases are unique in so many ways, but we know how to manage them effectively and efficiently.

Approach: Experience is critical, but this is not the only factor on which to base a decision  for representation. In fact, an over-reliance on experience can result in a lack of attention to the unique details that are important to every case. At Evans/Reilley, we know that no two cases are identical. Thus, while we always leverage our experience,  we also rely heavily on our approach to service which focuses on listening actively, asking relevant questions, and taking the time to focus on all aspects of the case. We know that the combination of the aftermath of your truck accident combined with your concern regarding your legal case can be a lot to manage. We communicate compassionately and regularly, always keeping you in the loop regarding the status of your case.  Additionally, we welcome your questions. Don’t ever hesitate to pick up the phone and give us a call.

Reputation: You want to work with a firm that has successfully handled cases like yours in the past, one that others who have been in a similar position would refer to their friends and family and call again should the need arise. Our team at Evans/Reilley has a proven reputation for providing outstanding service that results in well-deserved settlements. We are committed to supporting those in  the community as if they were members of our family and are incredibly grateful  for the testimonial shared by individuals with whom we have worked.

The unique combination of our experience and knowledge, approach to service, commitment to the community, and stellar reputation all contribute to why so many in the Austin, Texas, area reach out to us time and time again. We know how to effectively manage truck accident cases in Austin and are ready to go to work for you.

Handling Your Case From Start to Finish

An Overview of What Our Truck Accident Attorney in Austin Will Do for You

The administration of a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit after a truck accident is complicated and time consuming. Managing this process on your own is more than overwhelming; because you don’t understand the law you are apt to make mistakes that can greatly impact your settlement.

Engaging a seasoned legal professional to represent you and handle the multifaceted process is wise.  At Evans/Reilley, our team is a valuable resource who will leverage its experience, knowledge and approach to manage every step of the legal process on your behalf.  Below we have shared how we will support you.

In all situations knowledge is power, and personal injury lawsuits for truck accidents are no exception. Our first course of action is to listen carefully to your story, from your perspective. But we do not stop there. We take the time to collect and review all information regarding your accident, including first responder reports (police, fire, and EMT), available photos and videos, and all medical records.  Additionally, we will personally interview all witnesses to make sure we understand exactly what they saw. No detail or bit of information is too small.  You would be surprised at how often small things make a big difference.

It is not surprising that truck accident personal injury cases involve a lot of paperwork. We assume responsibility for the completion and submission of all forms. Our experience allows us to manage this task efficiently and effectively, always complying with any important insurance time frames as well as the statute of limitations.

One of the things that surprise our clients, again and again, is the abundance of communication in which these cases result. We assume responsibility for all of it. In fact, we caution our clients against responding to any telephone calls or emails from insurance company representatives or opposing counsel. Simply share our contact information with them and we will communicate on your behalf. You don’t want to accidentally say something that could jeopardize your case or your settlement.

That said, we also make it a point to communicate regularly with you. The progress of the case is important to you; we will keep you up to date on everything that happens.  Additionally, it is our pleasure to answer any of your questions as they arise. You should never hesitate to pick up the phone and give us a call.  That is why we are here.

Injuries from truck accidents can be catastrophic and may impact your life for years to come. We make sure that the settlement we request takes into account future costs as well as the emotional toll on your life. We have excellent expert witnesses we can contact to substantiate your claims and our cost estimates.

Our team of truck accident attorneys in Austin are seasoned negotiators. They know how to present their cases and work with insurance companies to maximize your settlement. We negotiate on your behalf, always checking with you before accepting an offer.  Our goal is to settle your case during this phase, but we will never accept an offer that is less than reasonable. We are strong and aggressive litigators who will not hesitate to take your case to trial if need be.

Clearly, we handle every aspect of your case so you can dedicate your time where it is needed most, to your recovery and your family. Our team is composed of experienced, capable, and committed professionals who are ready to work with you.

Addressing Your Frequently Asked Questions

Our Truck Accident Attorney in Austin Welcomes Your Questions and Concerns

The complexity of personal injury laws, combined with the fact that the average individual who has been hurt in a truck accident is unfamiliar with the legal landscape, means that questions are common. Below our Austin truck accident attorneys have responded to some of those which we hear most often.

Questions

Is there a statute of limitations for truck accident injury lawsuits?

Yes, in Texas there is. The statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident that caused your injuries. Your Austin truck accident lawyer will make sure to file all paperwork in accordance with these important deadlines.

An insurance representative for the trucking company left me a voicemail. What should I do?

Share this information immediately with your truck accident injury attorney in Austin. At Evans/Reilley we ask our clients  to refer all inquiries regarding their accident to us. We know how to communicate appropriately to protect their interests. You don’t want to say something to damage your case.

Who can be held liable for a truck accident in Austin?

The answer to this depends upon the specifics of your incident, but a number of people/entities may be at fault. These include, but are not limited to, the driver of the truck, the trucking company, the truck manufacturer, the cargo loader, the truck owner, and even the entity in charge of maintaining the roadways if they were unsafe. Your Austin truck accident lawyer can review your case and help identify all at-fault parties. Sometimes more than one person/organization can be held liable.

My loved one was killed in an accident with a truck. Do I have recourse?

Yes, you do if negligence was the cause of the accident that resulted in the death. You should contact an Austin wrongful death attorney to review your case and guide you through the legal process.

If I was partially responsible for the accident, can I still be eligible for damages?

You may be, depending upon the percentage of fault assigned to you.  In Texas, personal injury law takes into account modified comparative fault (or proportionate responsibility).  This means that if you were less than 51% responsible for the accident you would still be able to claim damages. Your award would be reduced by your percentage of fault.  Talk to your Austin truck accident lawyer to see how your case could be impacted.

Clearly the questions and answers shared above are general in nature. For answers to questions relating directly to your case, schedule a consultation with our truck accident attorney in Austin.

Truck Accidents in Austin

What You Should Do

How you react following an accident with a truck can have a significant effect on the outcome of any legal action. Below we have shared some of the steps you should take, if able, after your collision.  Of course, your first priority must always be your well-being. Do not do anything dangerous that could cause further injury.

• Dial 911 to request medical assistance and the police.
• Accept medical treatment.
• Take photos and videos of the accident site and all vehicles, if you can.
• Collect contact information for all witnesses.
• Follow up with your doctor.
• Contact an Austin truck accident attorney.
• Notify your insurance company (with direction from your lawyer).
• Document the experience as soon as possible.
• Keep accurate medical records that include the impact on your life.

Completing these tasks can prove valuable when you pursue damages through a personal injury lawsuit.

Proving Negligence Is Challenging

Accidents happen, we all know this to be true; but when the accident is due to the negligent action or inaction of another person, the injured may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit to pursue damages.

When a truck accident causes injury, working with a seasoned Austin truck accident injury lawyer is critical.

The process is complicated. For your case to qualify for damages, the following must be proven.

• The defendant must have owed the injured a duty of care.
• The duty was breached by acting a specific way or failing to act.
• These actions caused the accident specifically resulting in injuries and property damage.
• The damages suffered were a direct result of the accident.

In your personal injury case, your Austin truck accident lawyer must prove the four things above and be able to substantiate the damages. In addition to your medical records, we work closely with a team of expert witnesses whose services we can leverage if necessary.

Wrongful Death Caused by a Truck Accident in Austin, Texas

Sadly, the number of lives lost in truck accidents in Texas is the highest in the nation. In 2021, over 700 people were killed. If you have lost a loved one in a truck accident, you know that no amount of money can make up for the loss.  Deaths like this often have long-lasting consequences including financial hardship. As the surviving family member, you should not be responsible for the costs resulting from an accident that occurred because of negligence.

It is possible to recover damages through legal action.  An Evans/Reilley wrongful death attorney can help you address your needs. Settlements often include compensation for:

• Medical Bills
• Funeral Costs
• Lost Future Earnings
• Loss of Companionship
• Grief and Emotional Damage
• Loss of Inheritance
• Possible Punitive Damages.

Texas law does identify those who may file a wrongful death lawsuit.  These individuals include the children of the deceased (natural and legally adopted), parents of the deceased (including legally adopted children), and a surviving spouse.  Other relatives, friends or life partners (without a legal marriage) do not have the right to make any claims.

Engaging seasoned legal representation should be your first course of action if you believe you are entitled to a wrongful death settlement because of a truck accident in Austin.

Austin Truck Accident Damages Can Be Considerable

Considering the discrepancy in size and weight of a passenger car and a truck, it is easy to understand why damages can be so extensive. When pursuing legal action, it is important to clarify how damages in Texas are classified and what you may be entitled to receive.

Economic Damages: These are the damages that likely come to mind first when truck accidents occur.  They are quantifiable and include:

• Medical Bills:  Hospital costs, emergency transport, physician visits, medication, physical therapy
• Care Bills: Costs for necessary care for serious and catastrophic injuries
• Property Damage: Repairing damage or replacing totaled vehicles. This category also  includes compensation for items damaged or ruined inside your vehicle.
• Wages and benefits: Compensation for your earnings and benefits lost during your recovery period as well as compensation for lost earning capacity if you are unable to return to work in the same manner because of the injuries sustained in your truck accident.

Non-economic damage: These are not as easily quantifiable, but certainly very important. Accidents with a truck are traumatizing, and the experience, physical and emotional injuries, and impact to your life are significant. These damages include emotional anguish, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment in life, and loss of consortium.  If you suffered disfigurement as a result of the accident you may be entitled to compensation for its emotional impact.

Punitive damages: While not applicable to every accident, if yours was caused by the gross negligence of another individual or party, these may be assessed as punishment for their behaviors. Your truck accident lawyer in Austin can let you know if your case may be eligible for this.

It is important to realize that the costs resulting from your accident may extend far into the future, perhaps for the remainder of your life.

The team at Evans/Reilley is experienced in doing this. We understand the long-term implications of truck accidents as well as the costs associated with them. We will work tirelessly to quantify these accurately, leveraging a team of expert witnesses to help substantiate our claims if necessary.

Contact the Evans/Reilley Truck Accident Lawyers in Austin

Reach Out To Us Today

The time after a truck accident is simply overwhelming. Your injuries are painful, your recovery exhausting, and your concern for your future health and financial well-being understandable. While moving forward with legal action is necessary, the process is daunting.

This is where our team of seasoned Austin truck accident lawyers can help. We have been handling situations like yours for decades and know what needs to be done.  Additionally, we appreciate the fragility of your situation and have developed an approach to service that mandates compassionate communication and attention to detail. While truck accidents in Austin happen all the time, no two are identical. You deserve service from professionals who recognize that each case and each individual is unique.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Austin, contact our team today at

(512) 732-2727 to schedule a free consultation. We are ready to listen to your story, evaluate your case, and go to work for you immediately. When you engage the professionals at Evans/Reilley in Austin you can rest assured they will address all of your needs and concerns and work to maximize your settlement while minimizing the stresses of the legal process.