Collision Involving 2 18-Wheelers and 2 Passenger Vehicles Kills 2
According to KSAT, a multi-vehicle collision that occurred in the eastbound lanes of Interstate 10 resulted in two fatalities. The incident happened at around 11 p.m. on a Thursday earlier this month near mile marker 628 in Guadalupe County.
Investigators determined that the crash involved two different 18-wheeler trucks and two passenger vehicles. Officials from the Texas Department of Public Safety claim there were at least two fatalities, but they have not released any more information regarding the motorists or passengers involved.
The collision occurred at the San Marcos River Bridge and shut down I-10 at the 628 exit. Authorities diverted eastbound traffic through Luling from TX 80 to US 183. After clearing the wreckage, they reopened the lanes, but the accident remains under investigation.
Unfortunately, crashes between tractor-trailers and cars are often devastating for the passenger vehicle occupants. Big rigs can do considerable damage to small cars due to their sheer weight and size.
Commercial drivers have an obligation to follow the rules of the road, but sadly, not all of them do. If you were hurt in a truck wreck that was not your fault, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, and all subsequent costs associated with your recovery.
To determine if you have grounds for a claim, contact the Cooper Law Firm. Attorney N. Eric Cooper is proud to help clients throughout east Texas. Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free case evaluation with a truck accident attorney in Longview.
How Long Do Surviving Family Members Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas?
If you lost a loved one in a truck collision, your family may be able to sue the motor carrier for any resulting damages. In the state of Texas, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is typically two years; however, there are a few exceptions to this rule.
If more than two years has passed, you may still be able to file a claim. It is wise to seek legal counsel as soon as possible, though, because sometimes surviving family members have less than two years to bring a suit against the liable party. For example, if you want to sue a government entity for the death of a loved one, you may only have six months to notify the municipality of your claim.
What Kinds of Damages Are Recoverable in Wrongful Death Claims?
In the state of Texas, surviving spouses, children, or parents may be able to recover compensation for:
- Lost income and benefits;
- Funeral expenses;
- Medical bills;
- Emotional distress;
- Loss of companionship; and
- Loss of inheritance.
In certain cases, the family members may also be able to collect punitive damages. Unlike actual damages, these aim to punish the liable party for gross or willful negligence.
If you lost a loved one in a truck collision, contact the Cooper Law Firm today. Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free consultation with a truck accident lawyer in Longview. You can learn more about 18-wheeler claims by visiting USAttorneys.com.