Knowing who is liable in these situations is essential for building a strong legal case. Our Corpus Christi truck accident lawyer at Burkett Law Firm is here to explain how liability for truck accidents in construction zones is determined and what it means for your injury claim.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Construction Zones
Statistics show that 11,856 semi-truck accidents occurred in Texas in 2023. These accidents claimed the lives of hundreds of victims while leaving thousands injured. Many accidents take place in busy construction zones across our state.
Several factors contribute to the high incidence of truck accidents in construction zones:
- Poor Visibility and Signage: Construction zones often have inadequate or confusing signage, making it difficult for truck drivers to navigate safely. Poor visibility, especially at night or during adverse weather conditions, can further exacerbate the risk of accidents.
- Narrow Lanes and Sudden Lane Shifts: Construction zones frequently involve lane closures and sudden shifts in traffic patterns. These changes can be challenging for truck drivers, mainly when operating large vehicles like 18-wheelers, which require more maneuvering space.
- Speeding and Distracted Driving: Speeding in construction zones is a common cause of accidents. Truck drivers who fail to slow down or are distracted by their phones or other devices are more likely to cause accidents. The reduced speed limits in these zones are in place to protect both workers and motorists, and violations can lead to serious collisions.
- Unsafe Construction Zone Practices: Sometimes, the practices within the construction zone itself can be dangerous. This can include poorly marked detours, improperly placed barriers, or inadequate warnings about road conditions, all of which can contribute to accidents involving large trucks.
Determining Liability in Construction Zone Truck Accidents
Determining liability in a truck accident that occurs in a construction zone can be complex, as multiple parties may be responsible:
- Liability of the Truck Driver: The truck driver may be held liable if they were speeding, driving recklessly, or acting negligently during the accident. Truck drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely, especially in hazardous construction zones. If they fail, they can be held accountable for any resulting damages.
- Role of the Construction Company: The construction company responsible for the zone may also be liable if it fails to provide adequate signage, creates dangerous road conditions, or adequately train its workers. The company could be held partially or fully responsible if unsafe construction practices contributed to the accident.
- Government and Municipal Liability: In some cases, government entities or municipalities may share liability if responsible for the construction zone’s planning and maintenance. If the construction zone was poorly designed or if the area was not properly maintained, the government could be held accountable.
- Comparative Negligence Laws in Texas: Texas follows the doctrine of comparative negligence, which means that multiple parties can share responsibility for an accident. If the truck driver, construction company, or government entities are all found to be at fault, each party may be assigned a percentage of liability. This affects how compensation is awarded, as their percentage of fault reduces the amount a victim can recover.
Legal Rights of Victims in Construction Zone Truck Accidents
Victims of truck accidents in construction zones have several legal rights, including the right to seek compensation for their injuries:
- Filing a Personal Injury Claim: Victims can file a personal injury claim against the responsible parties to recover compensation for their losses and related costs. A truck accident attorney near me can assist in filing the necessary paperwork and ensure all legal procedures are followed.
- Potential Compensation for Victims: Compensation in truck accident cases can be substantial, covering a wide range of damages. This can include not only medical expenses and lost income but also compensation for emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and, in some cases, punitive damages.
- Importance of Gathering Evidence at the Scene: Collecting evidence at the accident scene is crucial for building a strong case. This can include photographs of the accident site, witness statements, and police reports. A Texas semi-truck lawyer can help gather and preserve this evidence to support your claim.
How a Corpus Christi Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help
Navigating the complexities of a truck accident case requires the help of an experienced big rig accident attorney in Corpus Christi. Here’s how they can assist:
- Investigating the Accident and Identifying Liable Parties: A skilled attorney will conduct a thorough investigation to determine all parties responsible for the accident. This may involve reviewing accident reports, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with experts to reconstruct the events leading to the collision.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims. An 18-wheeler accident attorney in Texas will deal with the insurers on your behalf, working to secure a fair settlement that covers all your damages.
- Representing Victims in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will represent you in court, advocating for your rights and seeking the compensation you deserve. Having an experienced big rig accident attorney in Corpus Christi by your side can significantly improve your chances of a successful outcome.
Contact Our Texas Semi Truck Lawyer Today
If you were hurt in a truck accident in a construction zone, contact our 18-wheeler accident attorney in Texas at Burkett Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation. Our team is dedicated to helping you secure the compensation you deserve.
