{"id":5128,"date":"2023-09-30T08:44:31","date_gmt":"2023-09-30T08:44:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/jleedslawfirm.com\/?page_id=5128"},"modified":"2023-12-09T09:37:44","modified_gmt":"2023-12-09T09:37:44","slug":"big-rig-accidents","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/jleedslawfirm.com\/big-rig-accidents\/","title":{"rendered":"Houston Big Rig Accident Attorney"},"content":{"rendered":"

Reclaiming Your Life After a Big Rig Accident in Houston, Texas<\/span><\/h2>\n

In the sprawling landscape of legal matters, Leeds Law Firm stands as a stalwart ally for those entangled in the aftermath of big rig accidents in the heart of Texas. Our Houston big rig accident attorney understands the unique challenges that victims of such accidents face, and we’re here to provide a guiding hand through the legal maze.<\/span><\/p>\n

At Leeds Law Firm, we are committed to delivering the justice and compensation you deserve. We will champion your rights and tirelessly advocate on your behalf, ensuring that the responsible parties are held accountable.<\/span><\/p>\n

Our track record of success speaks for itself. We have secured fair settlements and judgments for countless clients who have suffered due to big rig accidents. When you are grappling with the aftermath of a big rig accident in Texas, turn to Leeds Law Firm for the steadfast legal support you need.<\/span><\/p>\n

Our dedicated legal team is ready to stand by your side, employing every available legal avenue to secure the best possible outcome for your case. <\/span>Your path to justice begins with us<\/span>, and together, we can navigate the complexities of the legal system and help you reclaim your life after a big rig accident.<\/span><\/p>\n

What is a Big Rig Accident?<\/span><\/h2>\n

A big rig accident, also commonly referred to as a semi-truck accident or a tractor-trailer accident, is a type of vehicle collision involving a large commercial truck. These trucks typically consist of a tractor unit (the front part of the truck) and a trailer (the rear part).<\/span><\/p>\n

What Are Trucking Laws in Houston?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Commercial truck drivers and trucking companies are bound by a multitude of regulations and laws, both at the federal and state levels. When these rules are breached, it can lead to severe accidents and harm to other drivers on the road. Those responsible for breaking safety laws and causing injuries must be held accountable for their actions.<\/span><\/p>\n

Typically, law enforcement officers will arrive at the scene of a truck accident and assess whether the truck driver violated any laws during the incident. Additionally, the trucking company and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) should conduct their investigations in the days and weeks following the collision.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What Are the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Regulations?<\/span><\/h2>\n

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes and upholds a diverse range of rules that are relevant to all commercial vehicles traveling across state lines in the United States.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

These vehicles encompass various types, such as semi-trucks, hazardous materials (hazmat) carriers, tanker trucks, flatbed trucks, buses, and others. These regulations define the expected conduct in many facets of the trucking industry, including:<\/span><\/p>\n

Licensing<\/b><\/h3>\n

Every commercial truck operator <\/span>must possess the appropriate commercial driver’s license (CDL)<\/b> and <\/span>receive training specific to the type of vehicle they operate<\/b>. Some specialized trucks, like those carrying hazardous materials (HAZMAT), may require an additional endorsement on the CDL.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Companies must ensure that only properly licensed drivers operate their commercial trucks.<\/span><\/p>\n

Health Conditions<\/b><\/h3>\n

Licensed medical professionals must conduct thorough examinations<\/b> of CDL applicants and renewal applicants to confirm they do not have any medical conditions that could compromise their ability to operate trucks safely.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Conditions such as untreated heart disease, diabetes, seizure disorders, musculoskeletal problems, sensory impairments, or untreated sleep disorders are disqualifying.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hours of Service<\/b><\/h3>\n

To combat fatigued driving, regulations dictate limits on the consecutive hours and days a driver can work without mandatory rest and sleep breaks. These rules, while complex, are essential for preventing drowsy driving accidents, and drivers and companies should be well-informed and compliant.<\/span><\/p>\n

Intoxicated Driving<\/b><\/h3>\n

Commercial drivers face stricter regulations regarding intoxicated driving, with a <\/span>legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit of 0.04 percent<\/b>, <\/span>lower than the 0.08 percent limit for non-commercial drivers<\/b>. A DUI conviction, even outside of commercial driving, can lead to CDL suspension or revocation.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Random and post-accident drug and alcohol testing is also mandatory for commercial drivers, with consequences for failed tests.<\/span><\/p>\n

Distracted Driving<\/b><\/h3>\n

Commercial drivers are prohibited from text-based messaging and face strict rules for hands-free communications. Activities like eating, drinking, using a smartphone, talking on a CB radio, grooming, and more can all be distracting. While some distractions may not violate regulations, they remain highly dangerous.<\/span><\/p>\n

Truck Inspections<\/b><\/h3>\n

Both drivers and companies are legally obligated to inspect and maintain their trucks regularly. Neglecting inspections or maintenance to save costs can result in dangerous situations, as a malfunctioning truck can lead to accidents due to factors like tire blowouts or brake failures.<\/span><\/p>\n

Size and Weight<\/b><\/h3>\n

The FMCSA establishes maximum weight limits for fully loaded trucks based on size and axles. In the United States, the standard <\/span>maximum weight for commercial trucks is 80,000 pounds<\/b>, barring special exceptions. Compliance with these weight limits is enforced through mandatory weigh stations to prevent accidents caused by overloaded trucks.<\/span><\/p>\n

What Are the Different Types of Big Rig Accidents?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Big rig accidents, also known as semi-truck accidents, can involve a variety of collisions and incidents on the road. These incidents can result from many different factors and conditions, leading to a variety of accident types. Below are some of the different categories of big rig accidents:<\/span><\/p>\n

Rear-End Collisions<\/b><\/h3>\n

These occur when a <\/span>big rig crashes into the back of another vehicle<\/b>. They often result from factors like distracted driving, tailgating, or poor road conditions. Rear-end collisions can lead to serious injuries and vehicle damage.<\/span><\/p>\n

Jackknife Accidents<\/b><\/h3>\n

A jackknife accident happens when <\/span>a semi-truck’s trailer swings outward<\/b>, <\/span>forming an L or V shape with the cab<\/b>. This often occurs due to sudden braking or slippery roads and can involve multiple vehicles.<\/span><\/p>\n

Underride Accidents<\/b><\/h3>\n

These tragic accidents happen when <\/span>a smaller vehicle becomes trapped beneath the rear of a semi-truck’s trailer<\/b>. Inadequate underride guards on the truck can contribute to the severity of these accidents.<\/span><\/p>\n

Rollover Accidents<\/b><\/h3>\n

A big rig may roll over onto its side<\/b> due to factors like speeding, sharp turns, or shifting cargo. Rollover accidents can have catastrophic consequences, often affecting multiple lanes of traffic.<\/span><\/p>\n

Blind Spot Accidents<\/b><\/h3>\n

Large commercial trucks have significant blind spots, which can result in accidents when other vehicles are not visible to the truck driver. These accidents <\/span>may occur during lane changes or merging onto highways<\/b>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tire Blowouts<\/b><\/h3>\n

When a big rig’s tires blow out, it can lead to loss of control, swerving, and potential accidents. Tire blowouts can be caused by factors like worn-out tires, overloading, or road debris.<\/span><\/p>\n

Wide Turn Accidents<\/b><\/h3>\n

Semi-trucks require a significant amount of space to make wide turns, and sometimes, they may collide with vehicles in adjacent lanes while turning. These accidents often happen at intersections.<\/span><\/p>\n

Brake Failure Accidents<\/b><\/h3>\n

Malfunctioning or poorly maintained brakes can lead to accidents where a semi-truck cannot stop in time to avoid a collision.<\/span><\/p>\n

Cargo Spills<\/b><\/h3>\n

Improperly secured or overloaded cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable or spill its contents onto the roadway, posing a danger to other vehicles.<\/span><\/p>\n

What Causes Big Rig Accidents in Texas?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Big rig accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, including:<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Driver Error<\/b><\/h3>\n

Human mistakes can lead to serious accidents, especially when driving a large and heavy vehicle like a big rig.<\/span><\/p>\n