When a crash occurs, the aftermath can have severe consequences for survivors. It’s essential to know what to do after a truck accident in Texas so you can protect your physical health and legal rights. One of the first steps to take after you get home from the accident site is to research and hire a truck accident lawyer to represent you.
Hire a Truck Accident Attorney in Texas Whom You Can Trust to Take Care of Your Case
Having taken on over 125 jury trials as first chair lead counsel by age 47, founding attorney Josh B. Maness of The Law Office of Josh B. Maness, isn’t afraid to pursue full litigation on behalf of his clients. Since 2004, his driving force has been helping working Americans pursue compensation after experiencing physically and emotionally traumatic events.
Attorney Maness takes on selective cases in order to give his clients the full attention they deserve. As the current president of the Harrison County Bar Association and a longtime resident of Harrison County, Attorney Maness is dedicated not only to his practice but also to the people in his community.
The Reality of Truck Accidents in Texas
Major highways throughout Texas include the longest highway, I-10, along with I-45, I-35, and I-20, which runs right through Harrison County and the city of Marshall. Unfortunately, too many truck accidents occur along these roadways. With the new development of the Marshall Relief Route, with the purpose of connecting the regional interstate network to Marshall, along the US 59 corridor, there are going to be more trucks routing through town.
In 2024, there were already around 22 million cars operating throughout Texas. With the number of people relying on their vehicles for transit, car crashes occur daily. In 2024, there were 423,953 motor vehicle accidents throughout Texas. These incidents led to 89,797 suspected injuries, both severe and minor.
Not only do drivers have to remain vigilant around others on the road, but they also share highways with semi-truck drivers. Out of the total motor vehicle accidents in Texas in 2024, 42,146 crashes involved a tractor-trailer truck. When these accidents happen, they tend to cause devastating injuries and emotional pain.
Because of the severity of truck crashes, victims are often able to pursue extensive compensation to recover their financial and emotional losses. This can include requesting compensation for damages listed below:
- Medical bills
- Lost income, if you are unable to work because of your injuries
- Damage to your vehicle and other personal items
- Pain and suffering
Tips for Navigating a Truck Accident in Texas
After a crash, there are several key steps to take to protect yourself. You can optimize your truck accident by following the steps listed below:
- Call 911 to report the accident and request medical attention. Even if you think you’re fine, truck accidents often cause severe injuries due to the size and weight of semi-trucks. You may have internal injuries and not realize it. Check others involved in the accident who may require immediate help.
- Collect the contact and insurance information of the other parties involved in the crash. If there were multiple drivers involved, get everyone’s information. Gather the contact information of anyone nearby who witnessed the incident.
- During this time, you may be experiencing shock or increased amounts of adrenaline. Stay as calm and quiet as possible. Avoid arguing with anyone or admitting fault in the incident.
- Take photos and videos of the vehicle license plate numbers, the position of the vehicles, skid marks, property damage caused by the crash, damage to your vehicle and other belongings, and your injuries.
- Seek legal counsel to help you during the next steps in your case. Attempting to pursue a personal injury truck accident case without proper legal representation can quickly become overwhelming. When another party is responsible for your injuries, you have the right to seek compensation through Texas’s official legal process, and a reliable Texas truck accident attorney can be a great ally.
FAQs
Do You Have to Call the Police After a Truck Accident in Texas?
Yes, after a truck accident in Texas, you have to call the police if the crash caused any injuries, fatalities, or damage to the involved vehicles that make them unsafe to drive. Because of the severity of truck accidents, most survivors do end up having to report them. To report the incident, call 911.
What Not to Say to Your Insurance Company After a Truck Crash?
After a truck crash, you should not say anything to your insurance company that could incriminate you as liable for the accident. Only give them basic facts about the accident, such as the location and time of day it occurred. If you speculate about what caused the crash or admit fault, it could jeopardize your recovery process. Do not answer their questions under oath or make a recorded statement unless your lawyer is there with you. Call your lawyer.
How Long After a Truck Accident in Texas Can You File a Legal Claim?
After a truck accident in Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the incident to file a legal claim. Even though this deadline may seem like a long time, it can pass quickly before you realize it. The longer you put off filing your case, the harder it can be to recover compensation. If you don’t file within two years, you cannot recover damages, no matter how severe your injuries or financial losses.
What Evidence Should I Collect for My Truck Accident Case in Texas?
You should collect as much evidence as possible for your truck accident case in Texas. Types of evidence can vary, and your attorney can let you know what to gather. This can include copies of the incident report, transcripts of the 911 call, photos and videos of the crash site, your injuries, and damage to your car and belongings. You may also provide copies of your medical reports and records, proof of lost income, and surveillance footage of the accident.
Hire a Successful Trial Truck Accident Lawyer to Advocate on Your Behalf
When the unexpected happens, you need a determined attorney to help you navigate Texas’s complex legal system. Attorney Maness of the Law Office of Josh B. Maness represents his neighbors living in Marshall and Harrison County, Marion County, Panola County, and surrounding areas throughout Texas. Contact our office in Harrison County to get started on your case with Attorney Maness.
