Truck accidents are among the most devastating types of crashes on Texas roads. With tens of thousands of large trucks traveling through the state each day – many hauling freight across major corridors like I-10, I-20, and I-35 – Texas consistently ranks among the states with the highest number of truck accidents and related fatalities. The sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles make these collisions far more dangerous than typical passenger car crashes, often leading to catastrophic injuries or death.
At Kherkher Garcia, our attorneys help victims and families understand their rights after a truck accident. In our guide below, our truck accident attorneys explain the different types of truck accidents, the injuries victims may suffer, and the legal remedies available in Texas.
Truck Accidents in Texas: A Snapshot
According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), in 2023 alone, there were more than 38,000 crashes involving commercial motor vehicles across the state. These crashes resulted in:
- Over 600 fatalities
- More than 1,700 suspected serious injuries
- Thousands of additional injuries requiring medical treatment
Because Texas is a hub for shipping, oil and gas, and interstate commerce, trucks are unavoidable on highways and rural roads alike. Unfortunately, when truck accidents happen, the results are often catastrophic.
Common Types of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents can occur in many different ways, depending on factors such as road conditions, driver behavior, and cargo. Some of the most common types include:
Rear-End Collisions
Due to their size and weight, large trucks require significantly more distance to stop compared to passenger vehicles. When a truck driver follows too closely, drives distracted, or fails to brake in time, rear-end collisions can occur. These crashes often result in devastating injuries for drivers of smaller vehicles.
Jackknife Accidents
A jackknife accident happens when a truck’s trailer swings outward at an angle, often due to sudden braking, equipment failure, or slippery roads. Jackknifed trucks can block multiple lanes of traffic, leading to chain-reaction crashes.
Underride Accidents
One of the most dangerous types of crashes, underride accidents happen when a smaller vehicle slides beneath the trailer of a truck. These collisions are often fatal, as the roof of the smaller vehicle can be crushed on impact.
Rollover Accidents
High winds, sharp turns, improperly loaded cargo, or driver error can cause trucks to roll over. Rollovers can crush other vehicles, spill hazardous cargo, or create massive pileups on highways.
Wide-Turn Accidents
Large trucks require extra space to make turns. When a driver miscalculates or fails to check blind spots, a wide-turn accident can trap or crush nearby vehicles, especially at intersections.
Blind Spot Collisions
Trucks have significant blind spots on all four sides, often called “no-zones.” If a truck driver fails to check these areas before changing lanes or merging, they can collide with vehicles traveling alongside them.
Tire Blowouts
Because of the heavy loads they carry, trucks are especially vulnerable to tire blowouts. When a blowout occurs, the driver may lose control, veer into other lanes, or cause debris to strike nearby vehicles.
Lost Load Accidents
Improperly secured or overloaded cargo can spill onto roadways, creating hazards for drivers and leading to multi-vehicle crashes. These accidents often involve multiple responsible parties, including the trucking company or cargo loaders.
Common Injuries in Truck Accidents
The injuries sustained in truck accidents are often more severe than in other motor vehicle crashes. Victims frequently experience traumatic injuries that require long-term care and rehabilitation.
- Spinal cord damage is common, sometimes resulting in partial or complete paralysis.
- Traumatic brain injuries may occur from the violent force of impact, leaving victims with cognitive impairments or long-lasting neurological symptoms.
- Broken bones, internal bleeding, and severe organ damage are also frequent outcomes of high-impact collisions.
- Burn injuries are another devastating result, especially in cases where hazardous materials or flammable cargo are involved.
- Victims may also face crushing injuries that lead to amputations or permanent disability.
Beyond the physical harm, truck accident survivors often suffer emotional trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression, all of which can affect their ability to work, care for their families, or enjoy life as they once did.
Victims’ Rights After a Truck Accident in Texas
Truck accident victims and their families have important rights under Texas law. Depending on the circumstances, they may be able to pursue a personal injury claim or a wrongful death claim.
Personal Injury Claims
Victims who survive a truck accident may file a personal injury lawsuit against the truck driver, trucking company, or other liable parties. Compensation may include:
- Medical expenses (current and future care)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Property damage
Wrongful Death Claims
If a loved one is killed in a truck accident, surviving family members may be eligible to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. These claims can provide compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of companionship and support
- Lost income and benefits the deceased would have provided
- Emotional pain and suffering of surviving family members
Truck accident claims are often complex because they may involve multiple defendants, such as the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, and even vehicle or parts manufacturers. That is why it is crucial to work with an experienced attorney.
How Kherkher Garcia Helps Truck Accident Victims
At Kherkher Garcia, we understand the life-changing impact a truck accident can have on victims and families. Our attorneys:
- Investigate every aspect of the accident by gathering evidence, reviewing driver logs, analyzing black box data, and consulting with accident reconstruction experts.
- Identify all liable parties to ensure victims pursue maximum compensation, including trucking companies, contractors, and insurers.
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies, who often attempt to minimize payouts or deny valid claims.
- Fight for clients in court when a fair settlement is not offered.
Our team is committed to holding negligent truck drivers and trucking companies accountable, and to securing justice for victims across Texas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do immediately after a truck accident in Texas?
Seek medical attention, call law enforcement, and gather as much evidence as possible at the scene. Then, contact an attorney before speaking with the trucking company’s insurance representatives.
Who can be held liable in a truck accident case?
Liability may extend beyond the driver to include the trucking company, cargo loaders, maintenance contractors, and even vehicle or parts manufacturers.
How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Texas?
The statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims in Texas is generally two years from the date of the accident. Exceptions may apply in certain cases, so it’s important to speak with an attorney quickly.
Can I afford a truck accident lawyer?
Yes. At Kherkher Garcia, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we recover compensation for you.
Why are truck accident cases more complex than car accidents?
Truck accidents involve federal and state regulations, multiple potential defendants, and large insurance companies. Building a strong case requires detailed investigation and experience in handling commercial vehicle litigation.
Free Consultation with a Truck Accident Attorney
Truck accidents in Texas cause thousands of injuries and hundreds of deaths every year. Whether the crash involves a jackknife, rollover, underride, or another type of collision, the consequences are often devastating for victims and their families. Fortunately, Texas law provides avenues for seeking justice through personal injury and wrongful death claims.
Kherkher Garcia is here to stand by your side. With decades of experience representing victims of truck accidents, our team has the knowledge, resources, and dedication to fight for the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, contact Kherkher Garcia today to learn about your legal options. Get started right now by calling us at 713-333-1030. You can also request more information or schedule a consultation by submitting our online contact form.
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