Menu
When negligent drivers engage in dangerous behaviors and cause accidents resulting in injuries, the truck accident victim might have a valid reason to pursue a personal injury claim or lawsuit against the responsible driver, or company, to seek compensation. Although hiring a law firm is not necessary to file an insurance claim, having a truck accident lawyer can be highly advantageous for those involved in collisions. Our McAllen Truck Accident Attorney is ready to champion your case.
Why Opt for the Ryan Solis Law Group to Handle Your Truck Accident Case?
✅ The Ryan Solis Law Group has achieved millions in compensation for clients involved in personal injury cases, including truck accidents.
✅ With more than 19 years of experience representing personal injury victims, including truck accident victims, in McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley, Ryan Solis is an exceptionally skilled advocate.
✅ Ryan has been honored as the “Best Personal Injury Attorney in South Texas” by Stellar Business and has received the “CityOf” 2024 Premiere Service Award.
✅ Our law firm holds a verified A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and is a member of both the McAllen Chamber of Commerce and the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
✅ Choosing us means you’ll work directly with Ryan Solis. We don’t delegate your case to other attorneys; you get personal attention from our lead truck accident lawyer.
✅ We operate on a contingency-fee basis—meaning you pay no fees unless we win your case.
Experience – When selecting a McAllen truck accident lawyer, it’s crucial to find one with significant experience in truck accident litigation and personal injury law. Seasoned attorneys know what’s needed to file a successful claim and can protect you from unfair insurance practices. Ryan Solis brings over 19 years of experience in helping personal injury victims in McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley, including managing complex truck accident cases.
Specialization – Choose a lawyer who focuses specifically on truck accidents and personal injury. Attorneys with this specialized focus can offer more dedicated and effective representation than those with a general practice. Their expertise in truck accident cases is usually more extensive.
Personal Attention – Look for a truck accident lawyer in McAllen who will work closely with you and understand your unique situation. Many attorneys and firms fail to build a personal connection with their clients.
Expert Assistance – Truck accident cases often require expert testimony to prove the necessary legal elements for a successful claim. Our experienced truck accident attorney will identify and bring in the right experts needed for your case.
Client Feedback – When selecting a lawyer, always ask for testimonials from former clients. This will give you insight into the lawyer’s expertise and professionalism.
At the Ryan Solis Law Group, our truck accident attorney offers a wealth of experience, deep knowledge of insurance tactics, and a proven track record. We are dedicated to fighting for justice on your behalf and will only settle your case if you choose to do so.
The Average Settlement for a Car Accident in Texas
The national median settlement for a car accident is $40,000, but this figure may not accurately reflect your specific situation. If your damages amount to $100,000, a $40,000 settlement would be insufficient. Instead of focusing on averages, it’s important to consider your individual case. Legally, the defendant must compensate you to restore your situation as if the accident had never happened, which could result in a significantly higher settlement, especially for severe injuries. Your McAllen, TX car accident lawyer will strive to ensure you receive the full compensation you are entitled to.
Insurance Requirements and What They Mean for You
Texas mandates minimum insurance coverage for all drivers. If someone violates this requirement by lacking proper insurance, you may need to explore alternative options for compensation, such as filing an uninsured motorist claim.
How Do I know I have a Truck Accident Case?
If you’ve experienced a truck accident within the last two years, know that there are signs to look out for and find out if you actually have a truck accident case and you’re eligible to file a claim. These could include: serious injuries or death as a result of the crash; medical bills becoming too costly to handle alone; the insurance company refusing coverage; and discrepancies between what actually happened versus what’s written in the police report.
If you’ve sustained injuries in a truck accident due to someone else’s negligence, the skilled truck accident attorneys at the Ryan Solis Law Group are here to help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Large trucks, such as big rigs and tractor-trailers, are much larger than passenger vehicles. When one of these massive trucks collides with a smaller vehicle, the resulting injuries and damages can be severe. Victims of truck accidents often face broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and various soft tissue injuries, among other serious conditions. The medical costs associated with these injuries can easily reach tens of thousands of dollars.
Truck accidents can happen anywhere—from the busy highways around McAllen to quiet country roads. Regardless of the location, the injuries sustained can be significant and life-altering. Contact us today to learn how we can support you through your truck accident claim.
Long-Term Injuries from Truck Accidents
Individuals injured in a truck collision understand the severe impact it can have on their lives. Trucking companies, their insurers, and legal teams frequently strive to downplay the severity of your injuries, potentially reducing the compensation you rightfully deserve. This can feel like a second victimization, making you feel as though you are to blame.
Since truck drivers are often on duty when accidents occur, you may have grounds for a claim against both the driver and their employer. This highlights the importance of selecting the right truck accident lawyer for your situation. Here are key factors to consider when hiring a top-rated truck accident attorney.
If you were involved in a truck accident in the past two years, there are specific indicators that can help you determine if you have a viable case and are eligible to file a claim. Consider the following signs: serious injuries or fatalities resulting from the incident; mounting medical expenses that are becoming unmanageable; the insurance company denying coverage; and inconsistencies between your experience and what is stated in the police report.
Truck Accident Liability
Determining liability after a truck accident can be one of the most complex tasks for investigators. Multiple parties may share responsibility for the incident, meaning your claim could involve several defendants. A truck accident lawyer can investigate the circumstances of the crash, identify its causes, and establish who can be held liable. Once liability is established, you can begin pursuing damages from those at fault.
Potentially liable parties in a truck accident include:
• The truck driver
• The truck owner
• The trucking company
•The driver’s employer
• The truck manufacturer
• The manufacturers of truck parts
• The individual responsible for loading the cargo
• The entity in charge of truck maintenance
A truck accident case may include various defendants, depending on how fault is assessed by investigators. For instance, if a malfunctioning truck part caused the crash and the driver could not have foreseen the issue through regular inspections, the driver may not be held responsible.
Typically, truck drivers are found liable in accidents when:
• They were impaired during the crash.
• They violated federal hours of service regulations.
• They were speeding, changing lanes recklessly, failing to yield, or breaking any traffic laws that contributed to the accident.
• They neglected to use headlights or turn signals, resulting in a collision.
• They lost control of the truck due to excessive speed.
Investigators, including our McAllen truck accident lawyer, utilize several key factors to establish liability in a truck accident:
✅ Witness statements
✅ Security camera footage
✅ Your personal account
✅ Photos of the accident scene
✅ Insights from accident reconstruction experts
✅ Assessment of vehicle damage
✅ Road conditions at the time of the incident
✅ Examination of your injuries
If there are any uncertainties regarding who is liable, it’s important to consult with a truck accident lawyer about your situation. Having legal representation can significantly enhance your chances of success in your claim.
Federal trucking regulations are established by the FMCSA and cover various aspects, including hours of service for truck drivers and protocols for alcohol and drug testing. Our truck accident lawyer in McAllen at the Ryan Solis Law Group can provide more information and help determine if your accident resulted from a violation of these federal regulations.
Federal Trucking Regulations and Liability Issues
Truck drivers and trucking companies must adhere to regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the United States Department of Transportation. Key rules include:
✅ Limitations on how long a truck driver can operate their vehicle
✅ Requirements for thorough background checks on potential hires
✅ Restrictions on truck drivers operating their vehicles when fatigued or ill
✅ Guidelines for maintaining records, using logbooks, and more
✅ Mandates for regular maintenance and inspections of commercial trucks
Driving a commercial truck differs significantly from operating a passenger car, SUV, or van. Due to these distinctions, commercial truck drivers must meet specific qualifications to be hired. These requirements include:
• The driver must be at least 21 years old
• The driver must have sufficient English proficiency to communicate with the public
• The driver must be capable of safely operating their assigned equipment
• The driver must be physically qualified to handle a commercial vehicle
• The driver must possess a valid and current commercial driver’s license from only one state
• The driver must have successfully passed a road test
Many truck accidents stem from driver errors. For instance, a truck driver may break traffic laws, speed, make unsafe lane changes, or drive while distracted. A study found that 65% of truck drivers reported feeling chronically fatigued while on the road. Additionally, the truck driver or the trucking company may violate state or federal regulations related to truck weight/load limits, safety lighting, or securing cargo properly.
When a truck driver acts unreasonably and causes an accident, the victim may have grounds to file a claim or lawsuit against the negligent driver and/or their insurance company.
According to the NHTSA, a large truck is defined as any vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating exceeding 10,000 pounds.
Due to their considerable weight and the speeds at which they travel, driving a truck demands more skill than operating a standard sedan. There are also areas in town where trucks cannot navigate, and many locations throughout Texas present challenges due to their size.
Cases involving 18-wheeler collisions are highly intricate and necessitate a thorough examination of evidence that may not be present in other types of accidents.
This includes the truck’s electronic control module (black box), driver logbooks, trucking company schedules, maintenance records, and any other evidence that could reveal the true cause of the accident.
In these and all tractor-trailer accident cases, Ryan Solis will treat you with the dignity and compassion you deserve as a victim. We will vigorously advocate against the trucking company and their insurance provider to ensure you receive the justice and compensation owed to you. We also offer honest, straightforward advice to help you make informed decisions about your case.
Truck Injuries
Truck accidents in McAllen are distinct from other types of accidents. The sheer weight of these vehicles significantly impacts the severity of the collisions. Trucks and 18-wheelers are heavy, meaning that any impact can lead to serious injuries. Victims of truck accidents may experience long-term suffering as a result of their injuries. The most common injuries from truck accidents include:
• Seat belt injuries
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Fractured bones
• Back and neck injuries
• Head and brain injuries
In most truck accident cases, victims have a two-year window from the date of the accident to file a claim or lawsuit for compensation and damages, as stated in the Texas Statute of Limitations. If the accident occurred outside Texas, you’ll need to review the relevant laws in that state. Once the two-year period has elapsed, victims generally cannot pursue claims or lawsuits related to the truck accident.
In addition to filing against the negligent truck driver, victims may also include other individuals or entities in their claim. For example, if the truck driver was employed by a trucking company and was on duty at the time of the accident, the company could share liability under the principle of vicarious liability. Additionally, the trucking company might be liable for negligently hiring, supervising, or retaining a problematic driver—especially if that driver had a history of moving violations or other infractions.
Moreover, if the victim can demonstrate that the accident resulted from negligent repairs or a faulty truck part that malfunctioned while the truck was in operation, they may be able to hold the repair facility and/or the parts manufacturer accountable. However, proving negligence on the part of these entities often requires expert testimony.
If you have been injured in a truck accident that occurred in or around McAllen, Texas, a knowledgeable McAllen truck accident lawyer near you is ready to help. Our team can investigate the circumstances behind your truck accident, file a claim or lawsuit on your behalf, and pursue monetary compensation for your medical treatment, lost wages, mental distress, and physical pain and suffering, among other types of damages.
Don’t be victimized twice – call 956-686-9600 or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with Ryan Solis.
Our legal representation is not limited to those who have been injured in a truck collision; we also represent those who have tragically lost family members due to the negligent conduct of truck drivers and trucking companies.
Insurance companies will always try to minimize their payouts to you. One effective way to combat this is by staying informed. Below are some common questions from our clients that you might find useful.
Every truck accident is unique, leading to a wide array of injuries and losses. The value of your claim will depend on the severity of your injuries and the extent of your damages. We can provide a clearer estimate after evaluating your case.
There isn’t a set timeline for resolving a truck accident claim, as some cases may settle quickly while others take longer. We strive to resolve your claim efficiently but are prepared to go the distance to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Additional liability may arise if the accident was caused by road defects or a faulty truck part.
The simple answer is yes. All injury claims can be complex, and truck accident cases are particularly challenging. You’ll have to deal with extensive technical evidence, trucking companies trying to evade liability, and unreliable insurers. Focus on your recovery while our attorneys manage the legal process for you.
Similar to an airplane’s “black box,” commercial trucks are equipped with event data recorders. These devices can provide critical information, such as the truck’s speed at the time of the accident and whether the driver applied the brakes. This data can serve as essential evidence of liability in your case.
If your family has suffered a tragic loss due to a fatal crash, Texas law allows close family members to file a wrongful death claim against the responsible parties.
Under Texas law, you can still seek partial compensation if you are less than 50% at fault for the accident. We can help determine how liability is shared to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to, even if your actions contributed to the crash.
Texas law mandates that drivers carry liability insurance to cover injuries and damages caused in a truck accident. Unfortunately, not all drivers comply. If you find yourself in an accident with an uninsured driver, it can be stressful, but there are options available for seeking compensation.
