A recent multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 20 near Terrell, Texas, has left six people dead and others injured. The fatal truck accident, which involved several semi-trucks and passenger vehicles, is a heartbreaking reminder of just how devastating commercial truck accidents can be. In the aftermath of such a tragedy, victims and their families are often left with painful questions: Who is responsible? What are our legal rights? How do we move forward?
At Kherkher Garcia, we understand the overwhelming toll a catastrophic accident can take on victims and their loved ones. Our team of experienced truck accident and wrongful death attorneys is committed to helping families navigate the complex legal process and pursue justice for their loss.
Overview of the I-20 Accident in Kaufman County
The crash occurred on a Saturday afternoon around 2:40 p.m. near Terrell in Kaufman County. According to reports, an 18-wheeler traveling westbound on I-20 reportedly failed to slow down for traffic that had backed up due to a prior wreck. Authorities say the driver of the semi-truck fell asleep at the wheel and plowed into a pickup truck carrying five individuals. The collision set off a devastating chain reaction involving two more semi-trucks and three additional passenger vehicles.
Four of the five people in the pickup truck died at the scene. A fifth occupant was flown to a hospital but later died from their injuries. A sixth fatality was confirmed in one of the other impacted vehicles. At least two other individuals were injured in the crash but are expected to recover. Law enforcement officials have filed multiple felony charges against the semi-truck driver, including five counts of manslaughter and one count of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
The Legal Rights of Victims and Their Families
In serious truck accidents like this one, surviving victims and the families of those who lost their lives may have the right to pursue legal action. These rights typically include:
- Personal Injury Claims for those who suffered physical or emotional injuries in the accident. Compensation can cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.
- Wrongful Death Claims for family members of the deceased. These claims can seek damages for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, emotional anguish, and the loss of future income and support.
- Survival Actions, which allow the estate of a deceased person to pursue claims that the person could have filed if they had survived.
Liability in these cases may extend beyond just the driver. Trucking companies, freight brokers, maintenance contractors, and others involved in the commercial operation of the vehicle may also be held responsible depending on the circumstances.
Causes of Fatal Truck Accidents in Texas
Texas consistently ranks among the top states for truck-related accidents and fatalities. Several factors can contribute to these devastating incidents:
- Driver Fatigue: Federal regulations limit how long a truck driver can operate without rest, but violations are not uncommon. Fatigued driving can severely impair reaction times and judgment.
- Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or even adjusting GPS systems can lead to deadly distractions behind the wheel.
- Speeding or Driving Too Fast for Conditions: Large trucks require more time and distance to stop. Speeding significantly increases the risk of collisions.
- Improper Maintenance: Brakes, tires, and other mechanical systems must be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure safety. Failure to do so can lead to catastrophic malfunctions.
- Improper Cargo Loading: Unbalanced or unsecured loads can cause a truck to jackknife, roll over, or spill debris onto the roadway.
- Negligent Hiring or Training: Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers are properly trained, licensed, and capable of operating large commercial vehicles safely.
The I-20 crash underscores how a single moment of negligence, such as falling asleep at the wheel, can lead to unimaginable loss and destruction.
What Injuries are Common in Truck Accidents?
Truck accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles. Victims may suffer:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs), which can result in permanent cognitive or physical impairments.
- Spinal Cord Injuries, leading to partial or full paralysis.
- Burns and Lacerations from crushed vehicles, fires, or spilled hazardous materials.
- Fractures and Orthopedic Injuries, which may require multiple surgeries and long-term rehabilitation.
- Internal Organ Damage, which may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if not treated.
- Psychological Trauma, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
Even survivors with less severe injuries often face a long road to recovery – physically, emotionally, and financially.
How Criminal Charges Impact Civil Claims
While criminal charges against the truck driver can offer some measure of accountability, they do not provide direct compensation to victims or their families. Criminal proceedings focus on punishing the offender and protecting the public, not on making victims whole.
That’s why civil lawsuits for personal injury or wrongful death are so important. These legal actions are separate from criminal cases and are aimed at securing financial compensation for the harm suffered. In fact, evidence from a criminal investigation, including police reports, witness statements, and admission of fault, can often support a civil claim and make it stronger.
It is important to understand that even if a driver is convicted or pleads guilty in a criminal case, victims still need to take legal action in civil court to recover damages.
Why You Should Work with an Attorney Right Away
Time is critical after a serious truck accident. Evidence can disappear, witness memories can fade, and deadlines for filing claims can pass. Working with a qualified attorney as soon as possible ensures:
- Preservation of Evidence: Attorneys can act quickly to secure black box data, maintenance logs, driver records, dashcam footage, and other critical evidence.
- Independent Investigation: Law enforcement agencies conduct their own investigations, but they don’t work for the victims. An attorney can launch an independent review to uncover additional liable parties.
- Accurate Valuation of Damages: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. An attorney can assess the full extent of your losses and fight for fair compensation.
- Compliance with Legal Deadlines: Texas law sets strict time limits (statutes of limitations) for filing personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits. Missing these deadlines can mean losing your right to compensation.
How Kherkher Garcia Helps Victims and Families
At Kherkher Garcia, we are passionate about standing up for victims of serious accidents. Our legal team has extensive experience handling complex truck accident cases across Texas. Here’s how we help:
- Thorough Investigation: We leave no stone unturned in identifying all potentially liable parties and determining the root cause of the crash.
- Aggressive Representation: We take on powerful trucking companies and their insurers and fight relentlessly for our clients’ rights.
- Compassionate Support: We understand the emotional and financial burden our clients carry. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way with compassion and clarity.
- No Fees Unless We Win: We handle truck accident cases on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Whether you lost a loved one or suffered serious injuries yourself, we will work tirelessly to secure justice and financial relief on your behalf.
Why Victims Should Contact Kherkher Garcia Today
In the wake of a fatal truck accident like the I-20 crash, it can be difficult to know what to do next. But you don’t have to face this journey alone. The legal team at Kherkher Garcia is ready to listen, support, and fight for you.
By contacting us early, we can begin building a strong case while the evidence is still fresh and before insurance companies attempt to pressure you into accepting a lowball settlement. Our attorneys understand the tactics trucking companies use to avoid liability, and we know how to beat them.
Your family deserves answers, accountability, and a path forward. We are here to help you find all three. Call Kherkher Garcia today for a free consultation at 713-333-1030. You can request more information by completing our online contact form. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
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