How Large Trucks Lead to Major Accidents and Injuries in Texas

Large truck accidents are a serious and growing issue on Texas roads. With an increasing number of trucks on the road, particularly in the state’s rural areas, accident rates have risen, resulting in terrible injuries and fatalities. According to recent National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data, Texas consistently ranks among the states with the highest number of heavy truck accident fatalities. In this blog, we will look into the causes of these catastrophic accidents, the types of injuries involved, and what you can do to seek justice if you’ve been affected.

Why Large Truck Accidents Are More Catastrophic Than Other Collisions

Large truck accidents are distinct from normal vehicle accidents due to their tremendous size and weight. Fully loaded trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds; therefore, the force in a collision is exponentially greater than in crashes involving simply passenger vehicles. Here are some additional reasons why large truck accidents are more catastrophic than other collisions.

1. Size and Weight: Because of their immense weight and towering size, heavy trucks have a considerably higher impact on passenger vehicles in collisions than conventional car accidents. The outcomes are frequently terrible, with severe injuries and deaths becoming more typical in these occurrences.
2. Momentum and Stopping Distance: A truck’s momentum when going at high speeds makes it difficult to stop fast, especially in an emergency. Even with modern braking systems, a loaded truck traveling at highway speeds may take 20–40% longer to stop than a passenger car, increasing the risk in rapidly changing conditions such as traffic jams or road construction zones.
3. Increased Blind Spots: Trucks have wide blind spots on all sides, sometimes known as “no zones.” A passenger vehicle in one of these blind zones may go unnoticed by the truck driver, increasing the likelihood of a side-impact or lane-change accident.
4. Brake Failures and lengthy Stopping Distances: The strain on a truck’s brakes, particularly while moving down lengthy declines, can cause brake failures. Rear-end crashes, which are typically deadly, become more likely when combined with increased stopping distances.

Driving near large trucks requires drivers of other vehicles to exercise extreme caution. Maintaining a safe distance and exercising caution when merging near heavy trucks will help you prevent an accident.

Texas Trucking Accident Statistics

Large truck accidents are a major and growing concern in Texas and throughout the country. National statistics show that passenger car occupants face disproportionate risks in these events. In reality, 66% of fatalities in major truck accidents are passenger vehicle occupants, with 17% being truck occupants. This stresses the increased risk to individuals in smaller vehicles when an accident happens.

The statistics in Texas alone are striking. In 2022, 810 people died in large truck accidents across the state, highlighting the serious repercussions of these disasters. Furthermore, Texas has an alarming average of 26,000 incidents involving heavy trucks per year. These statistics show the ongoing dangers on Texas highways, emphasizing the significance of safety measures for both truck drivers and motorists who share the road with them.

The Most Common Causes of Large Truck Accidents in Texas

Many factors, including driver conduct and transportation industry negligence, contribute to large truck accidents.

• Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers frequently work long hours to achieve tight deadlines, resulting in fatigue and slower reaction times. Fatigue is a prominent cause of truck accidents, and Texas’ extensive highway network means drivers frequently travel long distances.
• Distracted Driving: Distractions, including mobile phone use and on-board technology, pose a considerable danger in truck accidents. Given a truck’s size, even a few seconds of distraction can have fatal repercussions.
• Improper Truck Maintenance: Trucking companies have to inspect and maintain their trucks on a regular basis to ensure their safety while in operation. Unfortunately, tight timetables and measures to reduce expenses might result in badly maintained trucks, increasing the likelihood of brake or tire failure.
• Overloaded Cargo: Trucks carrying excess goods are more difficult to control and can put more strain on tires and brakes, resulting in breakdowns or loss of control.
• Texas’s Unique Road Risks: Texas’ large rural routes, high temperatures, and dramatic weather patterns (such as heavy rain, high winds, and extreme heat) can pose special challenges for truckers. Long rural stretches increase the risk of fatigue-related accidents.

To reduce the likelihood of these accidents, truck companies must implement strict vehicle maintenance schedules to ensure trucks are in optimal condition, and drivers must comply with Hours of Service (HOS) requirements and take regular breaks to rest and recharge.

What to Do After a Large Truck Accident in Texas

If you or a loved one is involved in a large truck accident, it is necessary to take some precautions to ensure your safety, document the accident, and preserve your legal rights.

1. Call Emergency Services: Get emergency medical attention and report the accident to law enforcement.
2. Document the Scene: Take photos, collect witness information, and write down any pertinent details about the accident and its surroundings.
3. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel your symptoms are severe, some injuries do not cause symptoms immediately. Documenting your injuries is critical for any future claims.
4. Avoid Engaging in Discussions with Insurers: Insurance companies, especially those representing trucking companies, may attempt to reach a quick settlement for unfair amounts of money. Consult an attorney before speaking with them.
5. Consult with a personal injury attorney: A qualified attorney can help you navigate complex laws and regulations and get fair compensation.

Who Can Be Held Liable in Large Truck Accidents?

Determining liability in a large truck accident entails investigating multiple parties who may share fault.

• Truck Driver: If the driver’s negligence, such as exhaustion, distraction, faulty evasive action or speed contributed to the accident, the driver may be held accountable.
• Trucking Company: Failure to perform appropriate maintenance, overload trucks, or impose unrealistic schedules, negligent hiring and training, may result in liability against the trucking company.
• Maintenance Providers: Businesses may hold third-party maintenance providers accountable if they fail to complete necessary repairs or inspections.
• Cargo Loaders: Improperly loaded cargo can unbalance a truck, making it difficult to maneuver safely.
• Manufacturers: In some situations, faulty parts, like brakes, might lead to an accident. Manufacturers may face liability for such flaws.

Attorneys specializing in truck accidents must conduct a comprehensive investigation of the case, collect pertinent evidence, and, in certain instances, may engage the services of an accident reconstructionist. This process is complex; however, it constitutes a critical element of truck accident claims.

Why Working with a Personal Injury Attorney is Key

Large truck accidents are inherently complicated because of the numerous parties and regulations involved. A skilled personal injury lawyer can be invaluable in guiding victims with these kinds of challenges. Insurance companies representing trucking companies frequently attempt to reduce compensation or shift responsibility to other parties. A skilled attorney understands the techniques used by insurance companies and will fight for fair compensation on behalf of their client. Personal injury lawyers also gather essential information, such as maintenance logs, driver records, dash cam footage, and expert testimony, to develop a solid case for their clients’ best interests.

Involved in a Large Truck Accident in Texas? Our Attorneys Can Help You Seek Justice

Seek legal counsel immediately to hold the responsible parties accountable if you or a loved one suffered injuries in a large truck accident. At Tate Accident Law, we know how catastrophic and life-altering a truck accident can be. However, you do not have to endure the repercussions on your own. Our dedicated team is committed to helping you navigate the legal process, fight for your rights, and secure the compensation you deserve. Do not hesitate to reach out for a free consultation. We’re here to support you every step of the way.