Tow truck drivers perform an important task in Texas by helping keep the roads clear of disabled and illegally parked vehicles. However, if a tow truck driver is not careful, he or she can cause a serious motor vehicle accident. A tow truck collision in Texas can lead to a complicated claims process for the victim, as these cases can involve complex issues of liability and unique types of evidence. Make sure to contact a trucking accident attorney in San Antonio.
What Are Common Causes of Tow Truck Accidents in Texas?
Tow trucks are large, heavy and dangerous vehicles that can pose various risks to other motorists. If a tow truck is not operated according to required safety standards, the driver could cause a catastrophic trucking accident. Tow truck companies and the drivers they hire must abide by the required duties of care to keep operations as safe as possible for the public.Â
The following mistakes can result in a tow truck accident in Texas:
- Speeding or reckless drivingÂ
- Distracted drivingÂ
- Driving under the influenceÂ
- Drowsy drivingÂ
- Failing to yield the right-of-wayÂ
- Unsafe reversingÂ
- Failing to check blind spotsÂ
- Following others too closelyÂ
- Failing to properly load a car onto the tow truckÂ
- Insufficient tow truck driver trainingÂ
- The hiring of an incompetent driver
- Poor tow truck maintenance and equipment failures
- Defective tow truck parts
Most tow truck accidents in Texas can be traced back to negligence, or someone’s failure to act with proper care. In personal injury law, negligence gives an injured victim the right to pursue damages or financial compensation from the at-fault party.
Who Is Liable for a Texas Tow Truck Accident?
Unlike a typical car accident case with only two drivers, liability can be complicated in tow truck accident claims due to multiple involved parties. The at-fault or liable party could be the tow truck driver, towing company or an independent contractor. This type of case may also involve the manufacturer of a defective part, the government or another driver. Make sure to speak with an experienced car accident lawyer in San Antonio.
Determining liability for a tow truck accident in Texas will take a thorough investigation. Investigators will assess the crash to search for signs of negligence, such as a reckless tow truck driver or unsecured vehicle. It will be up to the victim to provide evidence against the named party to receive compensation.
How to Navigate the Unique Issues Involved in a Tow Truck Accident Case
In addition to complex questions of liability, a tow truck accident claim can also have special evidence that must be collected. This can include the electronic data captured from the tow truck, such as from a logging device or black box. It may also include employment and truck inspection reports that should be kept by the tow truck company.
The best way to navigate your tow truck accident claim in Texas is by hiring a truck accident lawyer to represent you. An experienced San Antonio personal injury attorney will have the ability to go up against a tow truck company, its insurance provider and other parties to seek maximum compensation for your losses.Â
You can count on your lawyer to negotiate a fair settlement from an insurance provider while you heal from your injuries and get back to the life you love. For a free case review with a truck accident attorney near you, contact Hill Law Firm Accident & Injury Lawyers.