Box trucks are a staple on Texas roads. They are used to transport larger materials, such as multiple pallets and cumbersome furniture. They also go by other names, such as a cube or a box van. They typically range in length from 10 feet to 28 feet, and a height of 6 feet to 8 feet inside. Box trucks are enclosed, keeping its contents safe from inclement weather. Most box trucks also have a lock which makes them a secure place to store items. If you have been injured in an accident with a box truck, contact a Texas box truck accident lawyer at the Merritt & Merritt Law Firm to find out the options available to you.
We are open 24/7. Call us anytime at (713) 535-7051.
While you are trying to rest and heal from the injuries you sustained in your box truck accident, it is best to have an attorney represent you in recovering the compensation you deserve. Following are some of the ways in which an attorney can help you.
Fault is always a big question in box truck accidents, and whether or not an injured party will be able to recover any compensation depends on what party is found to be at fault. A Texas box truck accident lawyer can help look into the accident and determine who is at fault. Sometimes this requires having an accident investigation expert study the scene of the accident as well as all available documentation to determine how the accident occurred and what caused it to happen.
You can expect the insurance company to have scores of attorneys at their disposal to represent them in your case for recovery. Many times, the owner of the box truck will have their own counsel as well. It is not in your best interest to take on these trained legal professionals on your own. Instead, you need to obtain a lawyer that knows how the law works and has your best interest at heart.
Often, instead of proceeding straight to trial, these cases go through mediation or arbitration, which are different forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR). While not as formal as a trial, you may be bound by any decisions that are reached in ADR, especially arbitration. Because of this, it is best to have an attorney that understands the process to represent you in ADR. Do not make the mistake of thinking that since it is less formal, you do not need your own advocate.
After your accident, you may be contacted by a representative from multiple parties, including the owner of the box truck, the owner of the box truck’s lawyer, or the owner of the box truck’s insurance company. While these representatives will likely seem as if they are checking on you and being helpful, in reality they are looking for a reason to not pay what your claim is worth. Even an innocent statement you make may be twisted to give the appearance that you are not really as hurt as you claim you are. When you have retained an attorney, you do not- and should not- speak with these representatives. Instead, refer them to your Texas box truck accident lawyer to have their questions answered.
There are special types of driver’s licenses and training required for the drivers of different types of commercial vehicles. Whether or not any of these requirements applied to the driver of the box truck involved in your accident is a matter your attorney will look into, as well as whether or not the driver complied with any applicable rules and regulations.
When continuing negotiations is not in your best interest, your attorney will be able to file a lawsuit on your behalf to recover the monies you are owed. Your attorney will know Texas law, including any deadlines applicable to your case, and will be certain that you comply with all requirements.
If your case proceeds to trial, you will need an attorney that doesn’t shy away from the courtroom and is ready to present your case. A courtroom operates pursuant to certain rules, and it is in your best interest to have counsel that knows these rules and how to best handle your case so that you can receive the compensation you are owed.
There are several different types of damages that can be available to a person injured in an accident with a box truck, including economic damages, non-economic damages, and punitive damages. Determining which types of damages are available in a particular case, as well as the amount available, is a determination best made by a Texas box truck accident lawyer.
One mistake we commonly see being made by people injured in box truck accidents, is waiting until they have already been involved in negotiations with the insurance company or their representative before calling our firm. It is important to obtain representation as soon as possible after your accident. Representatives from the insurance company are not looking out for your best interest. Their goal is to be able to close out your case file while spending as little money as possible in settling your claim. It is always in your best interest to have an attorney that is dedicated to ensuring you receive everything that you are owed.
If you have suffered injuries in an accident involving a box truck, or if you have lost a loved one in a box truck accident, contact the Merritt & Merritt Law Firm to speak with a Texas box truck accident lawyer. We can provide you with the guidance and representation you need during this difficult team. We may be reached by calling (713) 535-7051 or via our contact page.