When a trucker makes an unsafe lane change, it can result in life-altering collisions with other, smaller cars due to the weight, size, and sheer power of the large vehicles. The severity of the situation can cause massive damages or fatalities.
When you are injured by a trucker who failed to switch lanes carefully, you deserve to pursue compensation. One of our dedicated truck accident attorneys could help you understand the cost of your potential lawsuit, legal options, and a way to move forward. You do not need to take on insurance companies or the defendant’s legal team on your own. A qualified lawyer with experience winning lawsuits regarding truck accidents caused by unsafe lane changes in Houston could fight for justice on your behalf.
Examples of Situations with Negligent Lane Switching
Unsafe lane changes involve driving in a way that is reckless, dangerous, or negligent towards other drivers. Some frequent examples include:
- Swerving
- Road rage
- Cutting off other drivers
- Failing to use a turn signal
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Not checking one’s blind spot
- Miscalculating the distance between vehicles
- Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Driving while fatigued due to working longer than legally allowed
Indiscriminate maneuvering between lanes can lead to disastrous wrecks when semi trucks are involved. A skilled attorney in Houston can help you prove that the truck driver who crashed into your vehicle must be held liable for your losses.
Settling with Insurance Companies vs. Going to Court
Insurance companies quickly offer low settlements to victims after an accident because they want to protect their assets and have the victim agree to an amount less than what they deserve without the counsel of an attorney. However, negotiations are critical. A well-prepared attorney could prepare a strategy and handle communications with the insurance provider on the victim’s behalf. No one should deal with insurance companies alone.
Sometimes, the parties cannot agree on a settlement. When that happens, a well-prepared lawyer could craft a compelling argument before a judge and jury. Achieving a favorable outcome is possible with a thorough investigation, a clear presentation of facts, and strong evidence. It is important for the claimant to collect as much evidence as they can after an accident to prove the extent of their damages. Obtaining evidence includes taking photos of the scene, getting a copy of the police report, and documenting all medical expenses. A Houston attorney could help prove that the trucker was negligent and caused the crash by dangerously changing lanes.
Proving Liability
You may be wondering how to win if your case goes to court. It is vital to prove that the other party was negligent. Four elements of negligence must be proven:
- The party had to provide a genuine duty of care to the plaintiff
- The party violated that duty of care
- The party’s conduct caused the plaintiff’s injuries
- The plaintiff endured legally recognized injuries as a result
Texas follows a modified comparative fault model, which means that a victim’s own negligence affects their possible compensation. The court assesses a victim’s liability using a percentage of contribution from one to 100%. If they are more than 51% at fault for the incident, they cannot recover compensation. Because so much is on the line, it is essential to hire an experienced Houston attorney to help prove the majority of the accident was caused by a trucker making an unsafe lane change.
Speak With a Houston Attorney About Truck Accidents Caused by Unsafe Lane Changes
We understand how devastating getting hurt in a major accident is. That is why it is important to act before the statute of limitations prevents you from filing your case. In this state, the deadline for bringing your claim forward is two years from the date of the injury-causing incident. One of our lawyers experienced in cases of truck accidents caused by unsafe lane changes in Houston could help you fight for your rightful financial compensation. Get started on your case by reaching out to our firm today.