How do tow truck accidents differ from other accidents?
Texas tow truck accidents can create serious damage to vehicles and people in other vehicles. For this reason, when this type of accident occurs, having a lawyer on your side to protect your rights and seek compensation for damages is often vital.
How do tow truck accidents happen?
A variety of factors can lead to a tow truck accident. However, one factor that differs from other accidents is that most tow truck drivers are on call. This means they can get a call in the middle of the night to drive and help a driver stranded on a freeway or back road. Lack of sleep or fatigue might result in the driver nodding off behind the wheel. The driver may not be adequately alert, which can result in a trouble such as a lack of concentration, slower reaction time or poor judgement.
What other factors can cause tow truck accidents?
The tow truck driver must load and secure the broken down vehicle. If not well secured, the vehicle could roll onto the road, hitting other cars. Or, other vehicles could crash into it, resulting in an accident.
Tow trucks have blind spots, larger blind spots than cars. It’s vital that tow truck drivers know where the blind spots are to avoid accidents. Vehicle mirrors and back up technology can help tow truck drivers avoid accidents.
Another factor is tow truck hauling limits. Hauling vehicles that are too heavy or too large for the truck’s capacity can result in crashes or tow truck breakdowns.
Who is liable when a tow truck causes an accident?
Potentially, there are multiple parties who might be liable in a tow truck accident. One factor is whether the tow truck driver works as an independent contractor or as a company employee. Parties who might be liable include:
- Towing company or truck owner
- Tow truck driver
- The employee or contractor who loaded the truck
- Tow truck manufacturer (if a mechanical defect caused the accident)
- Company or person responsible to maintain and service the truck (if mechanical failure caused the accident)
Have you suffered injury or lost a loved one in a Texas tow truck accident?
Tow truck drivers are subject to additional regulations under Texas law. An experienced attorney knows the applicable laws and regulations, which is vital knowledge when seeking compensation for damages.
The Law Office of Michael R. De La Paz has helped countless families and victims recover compensation in all types of vehicle accidents. We assist clients nationwide and throughout Texas, including clients in the McAllen, Brownsville and Houston areas. Arrange a free consultation today to evaluate your potential case.
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