Logging trucks are large tractor-trailer trucks primarily used for hauling tree logs of various sizes and lengths. Because of their size and type of cargo, log truck accidents can be hazardous. There’s a high risk of significant damage and catastrophic injuries, especially if any logs come loose during a collision. If you suffered injuries from a collision with a log truck, it’s important to speak with a Texas logging truck accident lawyer right away.
The logging industry in East Texas is sizable, meaning multiple trucks are hauling heavy loads daily. The tiniest mistake in securing the logs or skipping a safety check can have deadly results. Drivers who operate these trucks must also be meticulous in their driving and ensure zero distractions. A split-second distraction is all it takes to cause a deadly collision.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident with a logging truck, please contact the logging truck accident lawyers at right away.
Types of Log Truck Accidents
While passenger vehicles seek new safety enhancements yearly, companies don’t frequently upgrade their logging trucks. That means some older trucks may have issues handling the heavy loads that newer trucks can easily take. Defective and worn-out parts are definite concerns with these older trucks, too.
Here’s a look at some of the most common types of logging truck accidents in Texas:
- Flying debris that injuries another motorist, bicyclist, or pedestrian;
- Jackknifed trucks that lead to a collision with multiple vehicles;
- Rollovers due to heavy or unbalanced loads;
- Poor maintenance or superficial safety inspections that lead to equipment failure; and
- Tire blowout that causes a driver to lose control.
If you believe a logging truck driver is responsible for your injuries and damage, it’s important to schedule a meeting with a Texas logging truck accident attorney at Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP as soon as possible. Speaking with an experienced lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and obligations.
Common Causes of Logging Truck Accidents in Texas
Numerous issues and events can lead to a collision involving a logging truck. Here are some of the most common accident causes we see:
- Improperly loaded or secured cargo. Drivers must properly secure their cargo; otherwise, logs may fall off and into traffic. If the logs are not loaded correctly, the truck could be imbalanced, causing the driver to lose control and strike another vehicle.
- Distracted driving. Distracted driving is dangerous no matter what vehicle you’re operating. Logging truck drivers must take extra precautions to ensure they always watch the road and not put others at risk.
- Driver error or traffic violations. Accidents are rarely ever accidents. There’s always someone at fault. Perhaps a driver made a mistake and misjudged the distance of another vehicle, or they were speeding.
- Driving under the influence. Driving under the influence is a serious matter, even if you’re driving a passenger vehicle. Commercial truck drivers are held to a higher standard with a lower 0.04 BAC allowance. It’s never safe to drink and drive, but it’s especially dangerous to drive a commercial vehicle with potential projectiles on your trailer.
- Inclement weather and adverse road conditions. Sometimes, weather and road conditions can contribute to an accident. Rain and sleet can make driving a logging truck even more challenging. Unsafe road conditions, such as potholes, can result in devastating accidents.
It’s not uncommon to have more than one issue contribute to a logging truck accident. For example, consider a scenario where the logging truck was improperly loaded, and the driver misjudged a vehicle’s distance. As the driver slams the brakes, the logs break loose and strike approaching vehicles.
Who Is Liable for Logging Truck Accidents?
Determining liability in a logging truck accident depends on the individual circumstances. Most of these accidents are avoidable, so one or more parties could be liable for your injuries. For example, potentially responsible parties might include the following:
- Logging truck driver;
- Logging truck company;
- Logging truck owner;
- Shipping company;
- Cargo loading company,
- Vehicle maintenance company, and
- Government agencies.
Determining liability in these accidents is complicated. It’s best to speak with an experienced Texas logging truck accident lawyer who can help you identify all responsible parties. Building a solid case against these potential defendants is crucial. Otherwise, you won’t be eligible to collect any compensation for your injuries.
Common Injuries in Log Truck Accidents
Given the size and weight difference, truck accidents often result in severe to catastrophic injuries. With log trucks, you also have the added danger of heavy logs being propelled onto or through your vehicle. Some of the most common injuries we see include:
- Traumatic brain injuries;
- Spinal cord injuries;
- Severe back injuries;
- Internal organ damage;
- Broken or fractured bones, and
- Severed or amputated limbs.
While these might be some of the more common injuries in accidents involving logging trucks, they aren’t the only ones. You might have other significant injuries or minor soft tissue damage, depending on the severity of the impact. No matter what your injuries are, contact Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP to discuss your legal options.
How a Texas Logging Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help
As you might imagine, logging truck accidents are not your typical collisions. They differ from other large commercial truck accidents as well. If you sustained injuries in an accident caused by a logging truck driver, it’s best to seek legal representation. You need a skilled legal advocate who can navigate these confusing claims.
When you hire a lawyer at Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP with experience in logging accidents, you benefit from someone who understands the law and knows how to build a strong case. Your attorney will gather and preserve evidence, identify all potentially liable parties, and handle all communication with claims adjusters and other lawyers.
Your attorney will attempt to negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. If we cannot settle, we will prepare to file a lawsuit. Filing a lawsuit doesn’t necessarily mean your case will go to trial. We will continue to work toward a resolution while in litigation. If the defendants still won’t settle, rest assured we won’t back down from a courtroom fight.
Contact Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP
When it comes to complex log truck accidents in Texas, our legal team has decades of combined experience. We value every client, which is why our first and most important value is our commitment to you and doing what is in your best interest. We work tirelessly to help you obtain justice after a devastating accident. Please contact Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us review your accident and discuss the best legal options for your case.
Joshua Lee believes in aggressive, tough advocacy and a client-centered approach to every case. Joshua draws from a wide body of experiences and a robust understanding of the law. Joshua graduated from the New York University School of Law in New York City, which is considered among the best law schools in the world.