NAFTA Trucking Regulations

After a truck accident, insurance and trucking companies prioritize profits over people. They offer low settlements, delay or deny claims, and use legal teams to shift blame. Hiring a top Houston 18-wheeler accident attorney ensures you get the compensation you need, holds negligent companies accountable, and protects your future. Don’t settle for less than you deserve.

Start by asking friends, family, and coworkers for recommendations, then research online to compare experience and results. Not all truck accident attorneys are the same—you need one with a proven track record in trucking cases and the willingness to take your case to trial if necessary. At Arnold & Itkin, we’ve recovered billions for our clients and never settle for less than they deserve.

Your health comes first—seek immediate medical attention if needed. If possible, take steps at the scene to strengthen your claim. Call law enforcement to file an accident report and keep a copy. Collect the other driver’s information and witness statements. Save all medical records related to your injuries. Get a repair estimate for your vehicle. Lastly, continue seeing a doctor after your discharge to monitor your recovery and document ongoing medical needs.

Yes. Truck accidents often cause devastating injuries and financial hardship. A skilled lawyer ensures you get the compensation you need—not just what the insurance company wants to offer. Our Houston truck accident attorneys fight for fair settlements and are prepared to go to trial if necessary. We work to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses to help our clients rebuild their lives.

The timeline for a truck accident lawsuit varies based on factors like liability disputes, the severity of injuries, and whether a settlement is reached or the case goes to trial. Some cases resolve in months, while others take years. The best way to get an estimate for your case is to consult an experienced Texas truck accident lawyer. At Arnold & Itkin, we investigate accidents quickly, determine liability, and prepare every case for trial to secure the best possible outcome as efficiently as possible.

Truck accident cases are far more complex than standard car accidents due to the sheer size and weight of 18-wheelers, which cause greater damage and more severe injuries. Unlike car accidents, trucking cases often involve multiple liable parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, and manufacturers. These cases also require knowledge of federal and state trucking regulations, making it essential to work with a Houston truck accident attorney who has experience handling complex claims and holding powerful trucking companies accountable.

Fatal truck accidents remain a significant concern in the United States. In 2022, 5,936 people lost their lives in crashes involving large trucks, marking a 2% increase from 2021 and a 49% rise over the past decade. Notably, 70% of these fatalities were occupants of other vehicles, 19% were truck occupants, and 11% were non-occupants, such as pedestrians and bicyclists. Texas, in particular, has experienced a high number of such incidents, with 810 deaths resulting from large truck crashes in 2022. This underscores the critical need for stringent safety measures and regulations to protect all road users from the dangers associated with large truck operations.

In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a truck accident lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the accident, as outlined in Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003. This applies to personal injury and wrongful death claims, but exceptions exist. If the claim involves a government entity, a notice of claim may be required within six months. If injuries were not immediately apparent, the clock may start from the date of discovery. Additionally, for minors or incapacitated victims, the deadline may be extended. Missing the statute of limitations can bar you from seeking compensation, so it’s critical to act quickly and consult a Texas truck accident lawyer to protect your rights.

Failing to properly maintain trucks leads to accidents by increasing the risk of mechanical failures that make the vehicle unsafe to operate. Worn brakes can prevent a truck from stopping in time, underinflated or worn tires can lead to blowouts, and faulty steering systems can cause a driver to lose control. Additionally, malfunctioning lights reduce visibility, increasing the likelihood of collisions, especially at night. Neglecting routine inspections and repairs puts both truck drivers and other motorists at serious risk. Federal regulations require trucking companies to conduct regular maintenance, but when they cut corners to save time and money, lives are put in danger.

Liability for a truck accident can involve multiple parties, depending on the cause of the crash. The truck driver may be responsible if negligence—such as speeding, distracted driving, or fatigue—played a role. The trucking company can be liable if it failed to follow safety regulations, pressured drivers to exceed legal hours, or neglected vehicle maintenance. Manufacturers may be accountable for defective parts, while maintenance providers could be at fault for improper servicing. Additionally, cargo loaders might bear responsibility if unsecured or overloaded cargo contributed to the accident. Because truck accident liability is often complex, a thorough investigation is essential to identify all responsible parties and pursue full compensation.

We handle cases nationwide, with our offices in Houston, Dallas, Midland, and Baton Rouge. Our help extends to clients in Texas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and beyond, including in cities like Austin, Corpus Christi, Ft. Worth, San Angelo, and Tyler. To learn more if we can help you, we encourage you to call today!