Can I Sue CRST Expedited Inc. for an Accident Involving Their Driver?

Accidents with large commercial trucks, such as those from CRST Expedited Inc., can cause serious injuries and high costs. CRST is one of the largest transportation companies in the U.S. They employ thousands of drivers and have a large fleet of trucks. This means accidents with their vehicles can happen on our roads.

If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a CRST driver, you may be wondering if you can sue CRST Expedited Inc. for your damages.

At Zinda Law Group, we understand the complexities of trucking accident claims and can help you pursue compensation for your injuries and losses. This guide outlines your legal rights, steps to take after the accident, and how to build a strong case against CRST.

Can You Sue CRST Expedited Inc. for an Accident?

The short answer is yes. You can sue CRST Expedited Inc. if their driver’s negligence caused the accident or if the company itself contributed to the crash through poor practices, such as inadequate driver training or vehicle maintenance.

How is CRST Liable?

Liability in trucking accidents can extend beyond the driver to include CRST as a company if:

1. The Driver Was Negligent: Examples include speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence.
2. The Company Was Negligent: Examples include improper hiring practices, failure to maintain vehicles, or encouraging drivers to violate federal safety regulations.

What to Do Immediately After a CRST Truck Accident

Taking the right steps after a CRST truck accident can strengthen your claim and protect your rights. Here’s what to do:

1. Call 911

• Report the accident to law enforcement and request medical assistance if needed.
• Obtain a police report, as it will be critical evidence in your case.

2. Seek Medical Attention

• Even if you feel okay, have a medical professional check you. Injuries like internal bleeding or concussions may not show symptoms immediately.
• Keep detailed records of all medical evaluations, treatments, and bills.

3. Document the Scene

Take photos and videos of:

• The crash site, including vehicle damage and road conditions.
• The CRST truck, including its license plate and company markings.
• Skid marks, traffic signs, and any other relevant details.

4. Collect Information

Get the following details:

• Contact information for the CRST driver and any witnesses.
• The driver’s license and insurance information.
• The CRST truck’s Department of Transportation (DOT) number.

5. Avoid Speaking to CRST’s Insurance Adjusters

• Do not provide recorded statements or sign any documents without consulting an attorney. Adjusters may attempt to minimize your claim.

Common Causes of CRST Truck Accidents

Understanding what caused the accident can help establish liability. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Driver Fatigue

Truck drivers often face tight delivery schedules, leading to violations of FMCSA hours-of-service regulations. Fatigue impairs reaction times and judgment, increasing the risk of accidents.

2. Distracted Driving

Using a cell phone, eating, or other distractions can divert a driver’s attention from the road.

3. Poor Vehicle Maintenance

CRST is responsible for ensuring its fleet is roadworthy. Worn tires, faulty brakes, or other maintenance failures can lead to accidents.

4. Improperly Loaded Cargo

If cargo isn’t properly balanced or secured, it can shift during transit, causing rollovers or jackknife accidents.

5. Reckless or Negligent Driving

Speeding, tailgating, and failure to follow traffic laws are common forms of driver negligence.

How to Sue CRST Expedited Inc.

Filing a lawsuit against a major trucking company like CRST involves multiple steps:

1. Establish Liability

To successfully sue CRST, you must prove that the company or its driver was negligent. Evidence might include:

• Black Box Data: Records of the truck’s speed, braking, and driver behavior.
• Driver Logs: To check for violations of hours-of-service rules.
• Maintenance Records: Determine if the truck was properly maintained.
• Police Reports: Documentation of the accident.

2. Calculate Damages

Your claim should include both economic and non-economic damages:

• Economic Damages: Medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.
• Non-Economic Damages: Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

3. File a Claim with CRST’s Insurance Provider

• CRST’s trucks are insured for substantial amounts, often exceeding $1 million. However, their insurance company will work aggressively to minimize payouts.
• Your attorney will manage all communication with the insurance company to ensure they fairly value your claim.

4. File a Lawsuit if Necessary

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney can file a lawsuit to pursue compensation in court.

Challenges in CRST Truck Accident Cases

Pursuing a claim against CRST comes with unique challenges:

1. High-Stakes Insurance Companies

CRST’s insurance provider may use aggressive tactics to deny or reduce your claim. This is why having an experienced attorney is crucial.

2. Complex Federal Regulations

Trucking companies must comply with FMCSA rules regarding driver hours, maintenance, and safety. Proving a violation often requires expert analysis.

3. Multiple Liable Parties

Liability might involve:

• The CRST driver.
• CRST Expedited Inc. (for negligent hiring, training, or maintenance).
• Cargo loaders (if improper loading caused the accident).

Why You Need an Attorney for a CRST Truck Accident

Suing a major trucking company like CRST is not a simple process. Here’s how an experienced attorney can help:

1. Gather Critical Evidence

Your attorney will obtain driver logs, black box data, and other evidence needed to prove negligence.

2. Navigate Federal Regulations

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations are complex, but an experienced attorney will know how to identify violations that strengthen your case.

3. Maximize Compensation

Your attorney will ensure all damages, including future medical costs and non-economic losses, are accounted for in your claim.

4. Handle Aggressive Insurance Tactics

Your attorney will negotiate with CRST’s insurance team and take your case to court if necessary.

FAQs About CRST Truck Accident Lawsuits

1. How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident.

2. Can I Sue CRST Directly?

Yes, if the company’s negligence, such as improper maintenance or inadequate driver training, contributed to the accident.

3. What If I’m Partially at Fault?

Under Texas’s comparative negligence rule, you can still recover damages if you are less than 51% at fault.

4. How Much Does It Cost to Hire an Attorney?

At Zinda Law Group, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Call Zinda Law Group Today

If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a CRST truck, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Call Zinda Law Group at (800) 863-5312 for a free consultation. Let our CRST truck accident lawyers help you fight for the compensation you deserve.