How Our Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorneys Help in Bedford
We identify the business behind the vehicle, its insurance, and the records that prove fault. Commercial insurers start building their defense quickly, and we work to match that pace.
When you hire us, we:
- Identify the employer, vehicle owner, and any motor carrier involved
- Request driver files, logs, inspection reports, and vehicle data
- Obtain the crash report and witness statements
- Document your injuries and financial losses
- Negotiate with commercial insurers and file suit if needed
Commercial Vehicle Safety Rules
Larger commercial vehicles in interstate commerce must follow Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration rules. These cover driver qualifications, hours of service, vehicle inspection and maintenance, and drug and alcohol testing.
Every commercial driver must also obey Texas traffic laws. Violations that often lead to crashes:
- Speeding or following too closely
- Distracted driving
- Driving beyond hours limits
- Skipped inspections or deferred repairs
- Improperly secured cargo (see lost load accidents)
Who Could Be Liable in a Bedford Commercial Vehicle Crash?
The driver and employer are the starting point. Texas generally holds employers liable for employees’ negligent driving within the scope of their work.
Other possible parties include:
- The vehicle owner or leasing company
- A motor carrier whose authority the vehicle operated under
- A maintenance or repair company
- A shipper or loader
- A parts manufacturer
Read about liability when the driver is an independent contractor.
Common Injuries in Commercial Vehicle Accidents
The size and weight of commercial vehicles often lead to serious injuries, including:
- Spinal cord injuries and back injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones and internal injuries
- Burns and lacerations
A claim can include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. You generally have two years from the crash to file a lawsuit in Texas under CPRC §16.003.
About Brad Parker
Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Bedford, TX FAQs
What counts as a commercial vehicle?
Generally, any vehicle used for business, such as tractor-trailers, box trucks, delivery vans, buses, tow trucks, and contractors' work trucks. Larger vehicles used in interstate commerce must follow federal safety regulations. Even a pickup used for work can make the employer responsible if the driver caused a crash on the job.
How is a commercial vehicle claim different from a car accident claim?
More parties are usually involved, including the employer, vehicle owner, and sometimes a contractor or maintenance company. Commercial insurers often respond quickly with their own investigators. There may also be federal records, such as driver logs and inspection reports, that can prove negligence.
What if the commercial driver was an independent contractor?
The company may argue it is not responsible. Whether it is liable depends on how much control it had over the driver's work, the vehicle's ownership and registration, and the contracts. Federal rules can also make a motor carrier responsible for vehicles operated under its authority.
How much does a commercial vehicle accident attorney cost?
Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers handles Bedford commercial vehicle cases on a contingency fee. You pay nothing upfront and owe no attorney's fees unless we recover money for you. Our fee will never exceed your recovery, and we explain the exact terms in writing before we start.
Visit Our Bedford Office
Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers – Bedford Office
2317 Plaza Pkwy #100, Bedford, TX 76021
- Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday – Sunday Closed