Houston Double-Trailer Accident Lawyer
It is always daunting to drive alongside a tractor-trailer on the highway, but trucks with double trailers are especially intimidating. These trucks, which are also known as longer combination vehicles (LCVs) and double-bottom trucks, are simply not as safe to be around as other vehicles, even other large trucks.
Due to the size of these vehicles, they are much more likely to inflict serious injuries and more property damage, and the operators of these trucks are more likely to be involved in a crash. If you have been hurt, our Houston double-trailer accidents lawyer can help you claim the financial compensation you need during your recovery.
Causes of Double-Trailer Accidents
Even for the most experienced truck driver, operating a double-trailer is very difficult. Double-trailer trucks are simply not as stable as other commercial vehicles. If the tractor, or cab, moves sideways even slightly, it will have an exaggerated effect for the first trailer, and even more so for the second. This movement is known as the “crack the whip” effect because it causes the second trailer to swing violently. This movement is very difficult for the driver to control once it has started.
Double-trailer trucks are not only harder to control, but they are also much heavier than other commercial trucks. Instead of carrying just one load, the truck is now carrying two, doubling its weight in some instances. While 18-wheelers and single tractor-trailers typically reach full volume before exceeding the maximum weight under the law, this is not true for double-trailer trucks. These trucks can be loaded to the maximum weight level, making them harder to stop and control.
Filing a Claim After a Double-Trailer Accident
Any claim filed after a double-trailer accident will be based on negligence, just like other personal injury claims. However, these claims are much more complex. Federal regulations imposed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) govern the commercial trucking industry.
It is critical to work with a Houston double-trailer accidents lawyer that is familiar with these laws and knows how to use them when pursuing damages after a crash. A lawyer will also use strong evidence to support the claim. Specific documentation and specialized forms are also required after a double-trailer accident, and it is important to work with a lawyer that is familiar with these requirements.
Our Houston Double-Trailer Accidents Lawyers Can Help with Your Claim
The aftermath of any truck accident has the potential to become incredibly complex, but this is even more true after a double-trailer accident. At Gilde Law Firm, our Houston double-trailer accidents lawyers can advise you of the laws that govern these claims, and give you the best chance of obtaining the full and fair settlement you need. Call us today at 800-973-3106 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation with our knowledgeable attorney and to learn more about your legal options.
