Experienced Texas 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers Fighting Trucking Companies

At Harper Law Firm, we’ve dedicated our practice to helping truck accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. We’re not a “billboard law firm” or settlement mill that quickly processes cases for minimal compensation. Instead, we’re trial lawyers who thoroughly investigate every truck accident, understand federal trucking regulations, and aren’t afraid to take on major trucking companies and their high-powered legal teams.

Texas highways like I-35, I-10, I-45, and I-20 see thousands of commercial trucks daily, transporting goods across the state and nation. Unfortunately, this heavy truck traffic combined with Texas’s vast distances and varied weather conditions contributes to serious truck accidents that can destroy lives in an instant.

Why Choose Harper Law Firm for Your Texas Truck Accident Case?

Deep Understanding of Federal Trucking Regulations

Truck accident cases are far more complex than typical car accident cases because they involve multiple layers of federal and state regulations. Our attorneys understand:

• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR)
• Hours of service requirements for truck drivers
• Commercial driver’s license (CDL) requirements
• Vehicle inspection and maintenance regulations
• Cargo loading and securement rules
• Electronic logging device (ELD) requirements

Experience Fighting Major Trucking Companies

Large trucking companies have teams of lawyers and investigators who respond immediately to serious accidents. They’re focused on limiting their liability and protecting their profits. We level the playing field by:

• Conducting our own thorough investigations
• Preserving crucial evidence before it’s destroyed
• Working with accident reconstruction experts
• Understanding trucking industry practices and standards

Resources to Handle Complex Cases

Truck accident cases often require significant resources to properly investigate and prosecute. We have the financial resources to:

• Hire the best expert witnesses
• Conduct comprehensive accident reconstructions
• Obtain and analyze electronic data from trucks
• Handle cases through trial if necessary

Statewide Texas Representation

From our San Antonio base, we represent truck accident victims throughout Texas, including major trucking corridors and rural highways where many serious accidents occur.

Common Types of 18-Wheeler and Truck Accidents in Texas

Rear-End Collisions

Due to their massive weight, commercial trucks require much greater stopping distances than passenger vehicles. Common causes of truck rear-end accidents include:

• Driver fatigue leading to delayed reaction times
• Following too closely (tailgating)
• Distracted driving
• Brake system failures
• Poor weather conditions

These accidents often result in severe injuries to occupants of the struck vehicle, while truck drivers may escape injury due to their elevated position and the truck’s mass.

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when a truck’s trailer swings out to form a “V” shape with the cab. This can happen due to:

• Sudden braking on slippery roads
• Taking curves too quickly
• Improper braking techniques
• Equipment failures
• Unbalanced or improperly secured cargo

Jackknifed trucks often block multiple lanes of traffic, leading to multi-vehicle pile-ups.

Rollover Accidents

Commercial trucks have a high center of gravity, making them prone to rollover accidents, especially when:

• Taking curves or ramps too quickly
• Making sudden steering maneuvers
• Carrying unbalanced loads
• Experiencing tire blowouts
• Driving in high winds

Truck rollovers are particularly dangerous because they can crush nearby vehicles and spill cargo across the roadway.

Underride Accidents

These devastating accidents occur when a passenger vehicle slides under the trailer of a truck, often shearing off the top of the car. Underride accidents can happen:

• When trucks stop suddenly
• During side-impact collisions
• When trucks are parked improperly
• Due to inadequate reflective markings or lighting

Federal regulations require underride guards, but these aren’t always properly maintained or effective.

Wide-Turn Accidents

Large trucks need extra space to make turns, especially right turns. Accidents occur when:

• Trucks swing wide and hit adjacent vehicles
• Cars get caught in the truck’s blind spot during turns
• Trucks fail to signal properly
• Drivers misjudge the truck’s turning radius

Tire Blowout Accidents

Commercial truck tires are under enormous stress and can fail catastrophically, causing:

• Loss of control leading to accidents
• Debris that damages other vehicles
• Sudden stops that cause rear-end collisions
• Rollovers or jackknife situations

Common Causes of Texas Truck Accidents

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Federal regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate their vehicles without rest. However, pressure to meet deadlines often leads to:

• Falsified logbooks (though less common with electronic logging devices)
• Driving beyond legal hours
• Inadequate rest periods
• Use of stimulants to stay awake
• Falling asleep at the wheel

Fatigue impairs reaction time, judgment, and attention as much as alcohol consumption.

Improper Loading and Cargo Securement

Improperly loaded or secured cargo can cause serious accidents through:

• Shifting loads that affect vehicle stability
• Overweight trucks that can’t stop or maneuver properly
• Falling cargo that creates road hazards
• Unbalanced loads that increase rollover risk
• Exceeding weight limits that stress brake systems

Inadequate Vehicle Maintenance

Commercial trucks require regular, thorough maintenance due to their heavy use. Maintenance failures that cause accidents include:

• Brake system failures
• Tire blowouts due to worn or damaged tires
• Steering system failures
• Lighting and electrical problems
• Trailer coupling failures

Trucking companies have a responsibility to maintain their vehicles properly and keep detailed maintenance records.

Driver Error and Negligence

Even experienced truck drivers can cause accidents through:

• Speeding for road and weather conditions
• Following too closely
• Improper lane changes
• Failure to check blind spots
• Distracted driving (cell phones, eating, etc.)
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Weather-Related Factors

Texas weather can change rapidly, creating dangerous driving conditions for trucks:

• Sudden thunderstorms with heavy rain
• Flash flooding that makes roads impassable
• High winds that can push trucks off course
• Ice storms in North Texas
• Dust storms in West Texas

Truck drivers must adjust their driving for conditions and sometimes stop when it’s unsafe to continue.

Inadequate Driver Training

Some trucking companies fail to properly train their drivers, leading to accidents caused by:

• Inexperienced drivers who don’t understand truck dynamics
• Insufficient training on federal regulations
• Lack of defensive driving skills
• Poor understanding of load securement
• Inadequate knowledge of route planning and hazard recognition

Devastating Injuries Common in Texas Truck Accidents

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

The massive force involved in truck accidents frequently causes brain injuries ranging from concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries that can result in:

• Permanent cognitive impairment
• Memory loss and concentration problems
• Personality changes and behavioral issues
• Need for lifelong medical care and assistance
• Inability to work or function independently

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

The violent forces in truck accidents can damage the spinal cord, causing:

• Complete or partial paralysis
• Loss of sensation and motor function
• Need for wheelchairs and assistive devices
• Extensive rehabilitation and therapy
• Home modifications and ongoing care needs
• Significant impact on quality of life

Burn Injuries

Truck accidents often involve fires due to diesel fuel, hydraulic fluids, and cargo. Burn injuries can cause:

• Severe scarring and disfigurement
• Need for multiple surgeries and skin grafts
• Permanent disability and pain
• Psychological trauma and depression
• Inability to return to previous employment

Crush Injuries and Amputations

The weight and size of commercial trucks can cause catastrophic crush injuries:

• Broken bones requiring multiple surgeries
• Crush injuries to internal organs
• Traumatic amputations
• Compartment syndrome
• Long-term disability and pain

Internal Injuries

Even when external injuries aren’t apparent, truck accident victims may suffer:

• Internal bleeding requiring emergency surgery
• Damage to organs like the liver, spleen, or kidneys
• Collapsed lungs (pneumothorax)
• Abdominal injuries
• Delayed-onset symptoms that can be life-threatening

Psychological Trauma

The traumatic nature of truck accidents often causes lasting psychological effects:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Anxiety and depression
• Fear of driving or being a passenger
• Sleep disorders and nightmares
• Need for ongoing mental health treatment

Federal Trucking Regulations and How They Affect Your Case

Hours of Service Regulations

Federal law strictly limits how long truck drivers can operate their vehicles:

• 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14 hours on duty (including non-driving time)
• 60/70 hour weekly limits
• Required rest breaks
• Mandatory 34-hour restart periods

Violations of these rules can be crucial evidence in your case.

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)

Since 2017, most commercial trucks must use electronic logging devices that automatically record:

• Driving time and locations
• Rest periods and breaks
• Vehicle maintenance information
• Speed and other operational data

This electronic data can provide crucial evidence about driver behavior before an accident.

Commercial Driver’s License Requirements

Truck drivers must maintain valid CDLs and undergo regular medical examinations. Violations that can support your case include:

• Driving without a valid CDL
• Medical certification violations
• Failed drug and alcohol tests
• Moving violations that should have disqualified the driver

Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance Requirements

Federal law requires regular inspections and maintenance of commercial vehicles:

• Annual inspections by qualified mechanics
• Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
• Immediate repair of safety-critical items
• Detailed maintenance records

Poor maintenance can be a key factor in proving negligence.

Cargo Securement Rules

Federal regulations specify how different types of cargo must be secured:

• Minimum number and strength of tie-downs
• Specific requirements for different cargo types
• Weight distribution requirements
• Regular checking of cargo during transport

Improper cargo securement can cause or contribute to accidents.

Who Can Be Held Liable in Texas Truck Accidents?

The Truck Driver

Drivers can be personally liable for accidents caused by:

• Negligent or reckless driving
• Violations of traffic laws
• Driving under the influence
• Fatigue or falling asleep
• Failure to follow federal regulations

The Trucking Company

Companies may be liable through:

• Vicarious liability for their employee drivers’ actions
• Negligent hiring of unqualified drivers
• Negligent supervision of driver compliance
• Negligent maintenance of vehicles
• Pressure to violate regulations to meet deadlines

Vehicle and Parts Manufacturers

When defective equipment causes accidents, manufacturers may be liable for:

• Brake system defects
• Tire manufacturing defects
• Steering system failures
• Trailer coupling defects
• Design defects that make vehicles unreasonably dangerous

Cargo Loading Companies

Third-party loading companies can be liable for:

• Improper loading techniques
• Overloading vehicles
• Failing to properly secure cargo
• Using defective or inadequate tie-downs

Maintenance Companies

Companies that service trucks may be liable for:

• Inadequate or negligent repairs
• Failure to identify safety problems
• Use of defective replacement parts
• Improper maintenance procedures

Other Parties

Depending on the circumstances, other potentially liable parties include:

• Truck leasing companies
• Brokers who arrange transportation
• Shippers who provide cargo
• Government entities responsible for road maintenance

Texas Laws Affecting Truck Accident Cases

Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However:

• The discovery rule may extend this deadline in some cases
• Wrongful death cases have a two-year limit from the date of death
• Claims against government entities may have shorter notice requirements

It’s crucial to contact an attorney quickly to preserve evidence and protect your rights.

Comparative Negligence

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule:

• You can recover damages if you’re 50% or less at fault
• Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you’re 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages

Trucking companies often try to blame accident victims to reduce their liability.

Damage Caps

Texas generally doesn’t cap damages in truck accident cases, but there are exceptions:

• Punitive damages are limited to the greater of $200,000 or 2 times economic damages plus non-economic damages up to $750,000
• No caps apply to economic damages or most non-economic damages
• Medical malpractice caps don’t apply to truck accident cases

Dram Shop Laws

If a truck driver was intoxicated, you may also have a claim against:

• Bars or restaurants that over-served the driver
• Employers who knew about alcohol problems
• Social hosts who provided alcohol

The Investigation Process in Truck Accident Cases

Immediate Response and Evidence Preservation

Time is critical in truck accident cases because evidence can be destroyed or disappear quickly. Our immediate response includes:

• Visiting the accident scene while physical evidence remains
• Photographing vehicle damage, road conditions, and relevant factors
• Interviewing witnesses before memories fade
• Sending preservation notices to prevent destruction of evidence

Electronic Data Recovery

Modern trucks contain multiple electronic systems that record crucial data:

• Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) showing hours of service compliance
• Engine Control Modules (ECMs) recording speed, braking, and other data
• Fleet management systems tracking vehicle locations and driver behavior
• Dash cam and onboard camera footage
• Cell phone records that may show distracted driving

Document Analysis

We thoroughly review all relevant documents including:

• Driver qualification files and training records
• Vehicle maintenance and inspection records
• Company safety policies and procedures
• Hours of service logs and ELD data
• Drug and alcohol testing records
• Previous accident and violation history

Expert Witness Involvement

Complex truck accident cases often require expert testimony from:

• Accident reconstruction specialists who analyze how the accident occurred
• Trucking industry experts who explain standards and regulations
• Medical experts who explain the extent and impact of injuries
• Economic experts who calculate lifetime financial losses
• Mechanical experts who identify vehicle defects or maintenance failures

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Records

We research FMCSA databases to find:

• Company safety ratings and inspection records
• Driver qualification and violation history
• Previous accidents and safety violations
• Out-of-service orders and compliance issues

Types of Compensation Available in Texas Truck Accident Cases

Economic Damages

These compensate for measurable financial losses:

• Medical expenses: Hospital bills, surgery costs, rehabilitation, ongoing treatment, medical equipment
• Lost wages: Income lost during recovery period
• Lost earning capacity: Reduced ability to earn income in the future
• Property damage: Vehicle replacement or repair costs
• Home modifications: Wheelchair accessibility, medical equipment installation
• Caregiving costs: Professional nursing care or family member assistance

Non-Economic Damages

These compensate for subjective losses:

• Pain and suffering: Physical discomfort and emotional distress
• Mental anguish: Psychological trauma and emotional harm
• Disfigurement and scarring: Permanent physical changes
• Loss of enjoyment of life: Inability to participate in previous activities
• Loss of consortium: Impact on spousal relationships
• Disability and impairment: Reduced quality of life due to permanent limitations

Punitive Damages

In cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct, Texas allows punitive damages to punish wrongdoers and deter similar behavior. These might apply when:

• Trucking companies knowingly violated safety regulations
• Drivers were under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Companies pressured drivers to violate hours of service rules
• There was a pattern of safety violations or reckless behavior

Wrongful Death Damages

When truck accidents result in death, surviving family members may recover:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses related to the final injury
• Loss of the deceased’s future earnings
• Loss of inheritance
• Loss of care, maintenance, and services
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Loss of companionship and society

Challenges in Texas Truck Accident Cases

Complex Insurance Coverage

Truck accident cases often involve multiple insurance policies:

• Primary liability coverage (typically $750,000 to $1 million minimum)
• Excess or umbrella policies that may provide additional coverage
• Cargo insurance for damage to transported goods
• Non-trucking liability for when trucks are used for personal purposes
• Physical damage coverage for the truck itself

Understanding how these policies interact and ensuring you recover from all available sources requires experience and expertise.

Federal vs. State Jurisdiction

Truck accident cases may involve both federal and state law:

• Federal regulations governing trucking operations
• State traffic laws and negligence standards
• Interstate commerce considerations
• Jurisdictional questions when accidents involve multiple states

Corporate Structure Complexity

Many trucking operations involve complex corporate structures designed to limit liability:

• Owner-operators leasing trucks from larger companies
• Multiple companies sharing responsibility for different aspects of operations
• Shell companies with minimal assets
• Contracts designed to shift liability away from deep-pocket defendants

Industry Pressure and Retaliation

The trucking industry often pressures accident victims and witnesses:

• Drivers may fear losing their jobs if they provide honest testimony
• Companies may destroy or alter evidence
• Industry-friendly “experts” may provide biased opinions
• Quick settlement offers designed to prevent thorough investigation

Why Insurance Companies Fight Truck Accident Claims

High Stakes Financial Exposure

Truck accident claims often involve:

• Severe injuries requiring lifetime medical care
• High wage earners who lose significant earning capacity
• Multiple victims in single accidents
• Property damage to multiple vehicles
• Business interruption and commercial losses

The potential damages can reach millions of dollars, making insurance companies fight these claims aggressively.

Complex Liability Issues

Insurance companies exploit the complexity of truck accident cases by:

• Shifting blame between multiple potentially liable parties
• Arguing that federal regulations don’t apply to specific situations
• Claiming that victims contributed to their own injuries
• Disputing the severity or cause of injuries

Resources to Fight Claims

Large trucking companies and their insurers have:

• Teams of experienced defense lawyers
• Accident investigators who respond immediately
• Relationships with defense-oriented expert witnesses
• Financial resources to fight cases through trial

The Harper Law Firm Approach to Truck Accident Cases

Immediate Investigation and Evidence Preservation

We understand that evidence in truck accident cases can disappear quickly. Our immediate response includes:

• Sending preservation notices to prevent destruction of electronic data
• Hiring accident reconstruction experts to analyze the scene
• Interviewing witnesses before their memories fade
• Photographing and documenting all relevant evidence

Comprehensive Case Development

We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, which includes:

• Thorough discovery to obtain all relevant documents and data
• Depositions of all relevant witnesses including company executives
• Multiple expert witnesses to address all aspects of the case
• Economic analysis to quantify all current and future damages

Aggressive Negotiation from Strength

Our reputation as trial lawyers who aren’t afraid to take cases to court often leads to better settlement negotiations. Insurance companies know we:

• Have the resources to properly prosecute complex cases
• Understand the trucking industry and applicable regulations
• Won’t accept inadequate settlement offers
• Will take cases to trial when necessary

Personal Attention to Every Client

Unlike large firms that treat clients like case numbers, we provide:

• Direct access to experienced attorneys
• Regular communication about case progress
• Personal attention to your individual needs and concerns
• Understanding of the devastating impact these accidents have on families

Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Truck Accidents

How long do I have to file a truck accident lawsuit in Texas?

Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s crucial to contact an attorney immediately to preserve evidence and protect your rights.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Even if the driver was an independent contractor, the trucking company may still be liable for the accident through various legal theories including negligent hiring, inadequate supervision, or pressure to violate safety regulations.

How is a truck accident case different from a car accident case?

Truck accident cases are far more complex because they involve:

• Federal trucking regulations in addition to state traffic laws
• Multiple potentially liable parties
• More severe injuries and higher damages
• Complex insurance coverage issues
• Electronic data from the truck that must be preserved and analyzed

What if the trucking company claims the driver was not working at the time of the accident?

We investigate whether the driver was truly “off duty” or whether the company can still be held liable through various legal theories. Even off-duty drivers may still be considered within the scope of their employment.

Can I afford to hire Harper Law Firm for my truck accident case?

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. We also advance all case expenses, so you don’t pay anything out of pocket.

What if the truck accident happened outside of Texas?

We can often represent Texas residents injured in truck accidents in other states, or handle cases involving trucks that operate interstate commerce. Contact us to discuss the specific circumstances of your case.

Serving Truck Accident Victims Throughout Texas

Harper Law Firm represents truck accident victims throughout Texas, including major trucking corridors such as:

• I-35 Corridor: From Laredo through San Antonio, Austin, Waco, Dallas, and beyond
• I-10 Corridor: From El Paso through San Antonio, Houston, and Beaumont
• I-45 Corridor: From Houston through Dallas
• I-20 Corridor: From West Texas through Dallas and East Texas
• I-40 Corridor: Through the Texas Panhandle including Amarillo
• US 287 and US 87: Major state highways with heavy truck traffic

Texas leads the nation in truck traffic, with major distribution centers, oil and gas operations, and agricultural transport contributing to heavy commercial vehicle usage on our roads.

Contact Harper Law Firm for Your Texas Truck Accident Case

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler or truck accident in Texas, don’t face the trucking companies and their insurance companies alone. The stakes are too high, and the legal issues too complex, to handle without experienced representation.

Harper Law Firm has the knowledge, experience, and resources to take on major trucking companies and fight for the compensation you deserve. We offer:

• Free consultations to evaluate your case and explain your rights
• No fees unless we win your case
• Statewide representation throughout Texas
• Personal attention from experienced truck accident attorneys
• True litigation experience when insurance companies won’t offer fair settlements

Time is critical in truck accident cases because evidence can be destroyed and witnesses’ memories can fade. Don’t wait to protect your rights.

Call Harper Law Firm today for your free consultation. We’re here to fight for your rights and help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.