Sharing the road with massive commercial trucks is a part of daily life in Texas. But when these vehicles are involved in accidents, the consequences are often catastrophic. A single moment of negligence—whether by a driver, trucking company, or other party—can cause devastating injuries, property damage, and even loss of life.
If you or someone you love has been impacted by a truck accident, understanding the common causes is a crucial first step toward seeking justice and accountability. Let’s break down the risks, the reasons, and how you can protect your rights.
The Gravity of Truck Accidents in Texas
Texas roads are the lifeblood of commerce, with thousands of commercial trucks moving goods across the state every day. But this bustling activity comes at a cost: in 2023, the Texas Department of Transportation reported over 34,000 crashes involving commercial motor vehicles, including large trucks.
The consequences of these accidents are often devastating. More than 650 fatalities and 1,300 serious injuries resulted from truck-related crashes that year alone. The sheer size and weight of these vehicles—sometimes up to 80,000 pounds—magnify the impact of collisions, leaving victims to face life-altering outcomes.
Even more concerning, trucking accidents in Texas are on the rise, reflecting the growing volume of commercial traffic. This troubling trend underscores the urgent need for safer practices and greater accountability within the trucking industry. If you or a loved one has been affected, understanding the causes of these accidents can be the first step in seeking justice and preventing future tragedies.
Top Causes of Truck Accidents in Texas
1. Driver Fatigue: Pushing Beyond the Limits
Truck drivers often face grueling schedules, with tight delivery deadlines that can tempt them to skip breaks or exceed legal driving hours. While rules and regulations are in place to help combat the ramifications of drowsy truck driving, commercial trucks are still involved in nearly 6,000 crashes yearly. Unnecessary risk-taking fueled by drowsiness and exhaustion plays a significant role in these accidents. Fatigue impairs reaction times, decision-making, and overall driving performance, making it a leading cause of truck accidents.
2. Distracted Driving: More Than Just Texting
Distracted driving isn’t limited to texting behind the wheel. In our experience, distractions are a leading cause of trucking accidents, putting the safety of all road users at risk. As a professional driver, the responsibility of operating a large commercial vehicle requires full concentration and awareness at all times. Unfortunately, distractions can come in many forms, including: using a GPS, adjusting the radio, eating, or even checking logs. A moment of inattention is all it takes for a collision to occur.
3. Speeding: The Deadly Need to Make Up Time
4. Improper Loading: When Balance Goes Wrong
5. Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Neglecting Safety Standards
6. Driving Under the Influence: A Zero-Tolerance Risk
7. Weather Conditions: Navigating Texas Roads in the Storm
Rain, fog, high winds, and icy roads make driving especially dangerous for large trucks, as poor weather reduces visibility and traction. Drivers must adapt to these conditions to prevent accidents, but when they fail to do so, the results can be catastrophic. The 2021 Texas ice storm is a sobering example, marked by a devastating 130-vehicle pileup on the I-35 tollway. This tragedy claimed six lives, injured many others, and underscored the havoc severe weather can wreak on Texas roadways.
While weather complicates accidents, negligence often remains a critical factor. Determining liability in such cases can be challenging, making experienced legal guidance essential for navigating the aftermath.
8. Inexperienced Drivers: Lack of Training on the Road
Who is Liable for Truck Accidents?
Truck accidents often involve multiple parties, making it essential to determine who is at fault. Liability could rest with:
- The Truck Driver for negligence such as speeding or distracted driving.
- The Trucking Company for failing to enforce safety standards, properly train drivers, or maintain vehicles.
- Private Entities responsible for roadway maintenance can be held accountable if they neglect their duties, resulting in hazardous road conditions that compromise public safety.
- Cargo Loaders for improper or unsafe loading practices.
- Vehicle Manufacturers for defective truck components.
Due to the complexity of truck accident claims, it is crucial to contact an experienced truck accident lawyer who can thoroughly investigate the root causes, identify all liable parties, and help secure fair compensation.
The Role of a Texas Truck Wreck Lawyer
Truck accidents are not like regular car accidents. The stakes are higher, the injuries more severe, and the legal complexities far greater. A skilled attorney can:
- Investigate the accident to uncover every contributing factor.
- Identify all liable parties, from the driver to the trucking company.
- Calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies or represent you in court if necessary.
Your focus should be on recovery—let your attorney handle the rest.
Moving Forward: Protecting Your Future
A truck accident can turn your world upside down, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Texas law is here to protect you, but time is of the essence. Evidence disappears, memories fade, deadlines loom, and the road to recovery only gets harder the longer you wait.
If you’ve been impacted by a truck accident, our experienced truck accident lawyers can help. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
