According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, over 4,000 people die in truck accidents each year, while more than 110,000 are injured. Some of these accidents were the result of negligence on the part of the trucker when backing up the rig, also known as truck backing accidents. There is no doubt that big rigs can cause a devastating injury, but knowing what to do next can be difficult. If you have experienced this frightening occurrence, our Houston truck accident attorney is available and ready to help.
How Truck Backing Accidents Occur in Texas
Safely reversing a large commercial truck is difficult because of its size and trailer attachment. Truck backing accidents may also be caused by:
- Failing to inspect the area surrounding the truck before backing up
- Backing up without first checking blind spots
- Reversing too quickly
- Backing up into oncoming traffic. Truck drivers should instead back into parking spaces or other spots without moving vehicles or pedestrians.
- Failing to repair broken mirrors, lights, reverse beepers, or flashers
Who is Liable?
When truck backing accidents occur, the truck driver is liable in most instances. While sometimes an oncoming vehicle or a distracted pedestrian might be the reason for the collision, according to our Houston truck accident attorneys, the professional big rig driver carries both a higher level of risk and increased responsibility. Whenever a truck driver is behind the wheel, they hold a legal duty to protect those around them by driving safely. When this doesn’t happen, and the result is injury or death, the truck driver and/or their employer should be held legally accountable.
Injuries Caused by Truck Backing-Up Accidents in Houston
Unfortunately, because commercial trucks are so large, the impact is greater and injuries are more severe. Victims of truck backing accidents might incur broken bones, head injuries, internal bleeding, and even loss of life. If you walk away from a truck accident in Houston, it is still important to visit a doctor as soon as possible. Not all injuries appear right away, and you will need a record of all medical care for any litigation.
Types of Compensation Our Houston Truck Accident Attorneys Can Help You Recover
If you were injured in a truck backing accident, there are various types of compensation you may be able to recover if you file a claim with the help of experienced Houston truck accident attorneys. These include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Out-of-pocket costs for items you need following the accident, such as crutches, wheelchairs, etc.
- Home healthcare workers or professional caretakers
- Travel expenses to and from medical appointments
