Underride accidents are among the most devastating and dangerous types of collisions on the road. These accidents occur when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the rear or side of a larger truck, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. If you or a loved one has been involved in an underride accident, it is crucial to seek legal representation from experienced lawyers who understand the complexities of these cases. At Hollingsworth Law Firm, our team of dedicated underride accident attorneys in San Antonio is here to provide the legal support and guidance you need.
Understanding Underride Accidents in San Antonio, Texas
Underride accidents typically involve a passenger vehicle colliding with the rear or side of a commercial truck, such as a tractor-trailer. The impact can cause the smaller vehicle to become trapped underneath the larger truck, leading to catastrophic injuries for the occupants of the smaller vehicle. These accidents can occur for various reasons, including:
Inadequate Lighting: Poor visibility or insufficient lighting on the truck can make it difficult for drivers to see the truck in time to avoid a collision.
Faulty or Missing Underride Guards: Federal regulations require trucks to be equipped with underride guards to prevent vehicles from sliding underneath. However, if these guards are missing, faulty, or not properly maintained, the risk of underride accidents increases significantly.
Sudden Stops: When a truck stops suddenly, a trailing vehicle may not have enough time to react, resulting in an underride collision.
Lane Changes: If a truck changes lanes without signaling or checking blind spots, it can lead to a side underride accident.
Common Injuries in Underride Accidents
Underride accidents often result in severe injuries due to the sheer force of the impact and the intrusion of the truck into the passenger compartment of the smaller vehicle. Some common injuries sustained in underride accidents include:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The impact can cause head injuries ranging from concussions to severe brain damage, leading to long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly affecting the victim’s quality of life.
Fractures and Broken Bones: The force of the collision can cause multiple fractures, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Internal Injuries: Internal bleeding and organ damage are common in underride accidents and can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.
Lacerations and Abrasions: Victims may suffer from deep cuts and bruises, which can lead to infections and other complications.
What to Do After an Underride Accident in San Antonio, TX
If you are involved in an underride accident, it is essential to take specific steps to protect your rights and strengthen your case:
Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety are the top priorities. Seek immediate medical attention, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but can worsen over time.
Report the Accident: Contact law enforcement to report the accident. Obtain a copy of the police report, as it can serve as crucial evidence in your case.
Gather Evidence: If possible, take photographs of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses and note any relevant details about the accident.
Avoid Discussing the Accident: Refrain from discussing the accident with insurance adjusters or other parties without consulting your underride accident lawyer in San Antonio. Anything you say can be used against you in your case.
Contact Hollingsworth Law Firm: Reach out to our skilled underride accident lawyers in San Antonio as soon as possible. We will guide you through the legal process and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Pursuing Compensation for Underride Accident Victims
Victims of underride accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, depending on the circumstances of their case. Our underride accident attorneys in San Antonio will work diligently to ensure you receive fair compensation for:
Medical Expenses: This includes current and future medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and any necessary medical equipment or modifications to your home.
Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income and future earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering: Underride accidents often cause significant physical pain and emotional distress. We will seek compensation for your pain and suffering, as well as any psychological counseling or therapy needed.
Loss of Consortium: If the accident affects your relationship with your spouse, you may be entitled to compensation for loss of companionship and support.
Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, the court may award punitive damages to punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior in the future.
Why Choose the Hollingsworth Law Firm as Your Underride Accident Attorney in San Antonio, TX
Choosing the right legal representation is crucial for the success of your case. Here’s why Hollingsworth Law Firm is the best choice for underride accident victims in San Antonio:
Experience:Our dedicated attorneys have extensive experience handling underride accident cases and are well-versed in the complexities of trucking laws and regulations.
Client-Centered Approach: We prioritize our clients’ needs and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcomes for them.
Compassionate Support: We understand the emotional and physical toll these accidents take on victims and their families, and we provide compassionate support throughout the legal process.
Our Truck accident lawyers in San Antonio represent clients in the following practice areas:
Contact Our Underride Accident Lawyer in San Antonio, Texas Today
If you or a loved one has been involved in an underride accident, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. The sooner you contact a skilled underride accident lawyer in San Antonio, the better your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, we are here to help you navigate the legal complexities and fight for your rights. Contact us today at 210-551-0195 for a free consultation. Let our team of dedicated underride accident lawyers in San Antonio help you on the path to recovery and compensation.
Steve Hollingsworth is a skilled trial attorney with over 50 cases tried across Texas. With experience as a felony prosecutor and representing major insurers, he now focuses on helping injured Texans in areas like car, motorcycle, trucking accidents, and premises liability. Steve founded his own firm to provide dedicated, client-focused legal representation.
Professional and Thorough
I used Steve Hollingsworth for a personal injury case following a car accident. He was very easy to work with and managed my expectations regarding costs, time commitment/duration, filing suit etc. Steve kept me informed during the process and always made sure I understand what everything meant. My case took about 18 months to resolve, ending in mediation after filing suit and he pushed hard to make sure my best interest was represented and to ensure that I had the best possible (and fair) outcome. I hope I never have a personal injury claim again but if I do, I would absolutely consult with Steve. He exceeded my expectations and made the process as painless as possible. I would high recommend him.
JessieFormer Client
Awesome Attorney
I was a client of Steve Hollingsworth. I was totally satisfied with his representation of me. He was very helpful in answering all my questions and always kept me updated on the status of my case. I am very happy with the settlement of the case and would highly recommend him to anyone looking for legal advice.
RossanaFormer Client
Houston’s Best Consultation!
Steve was just great! Very easy to work with, communicates really well and most importantly sets realistic expectations. He is very straightforward and promptly responds to all your questions. I would definitely recommend Steve and would not hesitate to hire him in the future.
AnonymousFormer Client
Very Accommodating and Caring
Steve and his assistant Kristina takes care of all my requests right away. Steve personally calls on issues and keeps me updated on the developments of the case. Got me a great settlement! Would highly recommend!
Mila G.Former Client
Rear End Case
Mr. Hollingsworth was an excellent lawyer in my case. He kept me up to date and informed through the whole process. He was always honest and fought hard in my case. He comes highly recommend.
Anonymous Former Client
Awesome!!!!!
I have no complaints; Steve did a very good job on explaining the details on everything that I was going through with my case. Steve got my case settled in no time, I will sure spread the word about Steve he is a very great lawyer.
SaraFormer Client
Review
I liked how Steve explained everything, so I knew what I was getting in to. Steve got me what I deserved in no time. I would recommend him to anyone.
AndrewFormer Client
Steven and I attended law school together and I have known him since 2000. He was stellar in representing a close friend with a personal injury matter. I have been very impressed with his communication, dedication and thoroughness in representation.
Pamela V.Attorney from Cypress, TX
Steve is the real deal! He is an extremely invaluable resource on all things Litigation for me as a younger attorney. He is not only great a securing the bigger verdicts, but actually cares about the clients and still sticks by his tried and true method of meeting, in person, with his clients to go over facts . overall, a solid attorney, with a wealth of knowledge!
Crystal H.Attorney from Houston, TX
I cannot recommend Steve highly enough. As an attorney, you do not often find yourself in the position of being a client. But because of someone’s negligence, my husband and I found ourselves in need of a personal injury attorney after my husband suffered catastrophic injuries. We were immediately referred to Steve, and we were so lucky we were. Steve is compassionate but also tenacious. We always felt that he had our best interest at heart and was fighting for us. We truly felt that he cared about our case. There was never a time that he was unavailable to talk to us, and always kept us well informed. He has the utmost integrity and also has a vast knowledge of the law. On top of that, his experience is top notch as he has worked on both the defense and plaintiff side. We knew Steve was always tirelessly fighting for us, and a year and a half after my husband was severely injured by a negligent driver, Steve got us a fantastic settlement. I recommend Steve without hesitation.
Madelyn L.Attorney from Houston, TX
Steve and I were colleagues, where we worked on complex personal injury and wrongful death cases. What I observed in the years we worked together is that Steve is not only extremely skillful in his profession, but he is a tireless student of the law, constantly working to perfect the art of practicing law. He genuinely cares about his clients and their cases and it shows. He has excellent work ethic. He is not only a terrific lawyer but also a great person. As a fellow member of the State Bar of Texas, I would recommend Steve to anyone needing a zealous advocate in a personal injury case.
Vivian E.Attorney from San Antonio, TX
After working with Steve for a couple of years, I found Steve to be an outstanding, aggressive and highly skilled lawyer in the courtroom. His confidence and knowledge of the courtroom and what it takes to succeed there, I believe will ensure his long term prosperity.
Robin T.Attorney from College Station, TX
I had the pleasure of working on a trial with Steven last August. His background as an ADA is clearly evident in the courtroom. Steven’s presentation of the evidence throughout trial is that of a seasoned attorney who has spent many hours in front of a jury. His opening/closings were excellent, as well as his strategic litigating throughout the trial. Steven is a consummate professional and a pleasure to work with, and watch in the courtroom.
James H.From Miami, FL
When I met Steve, I was a legal assistant at a Plaintiff’s firm and he was working as an attorney for AIG. We connected there and then. Steve is a likable guy and an outstanding trial lawyer. He is charismatic and jurors like him. He is a Plaintiff’s lawyer now and he has the right skill set to represent injured individuals: he is compassionate, honest, and sincere and will go the extra mile for his clients. I’ve known Steve for almost 8 years now and I’m excited to see his career evolve.
Alice L. Attorney in Houston, TX
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