Truck accidents involving 18 wheelers, semi-trucks, and big rigs occur every day across Texas, including in Austin, Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and along major highways such as I-35, I-10, and I-45. Because these commercial vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, collisions with passenger vehicles often result in serious or life-threatening injuries.

Drivers and passengers involved in Texas semi-truck or 18 wheeler accidents are often left dealing with significant medical treatment, time away from work, and long-term physical and financial consequences. In the most serious cases, families lose loved ones in fatal crashes involving large commercial trucks.

Many of these accidents are preventable. They are often caused by negligence involving truck drivers, trucking companies, or other parties responsible for operating and maintaining these vehicles.

Individuals who were injured in a Texas truck accident involving a semi-truck or 18 wheeler may be eligible to file a lawsuit and receive compensation for their injuries and losses.

Find out whether you qualify to file a Texas truck accident lawsuit and start your claim today by contacting the law firm of Hissey Mulderig & Friend. You can reach us by calling our office toll-free at 1-866-806-8117, or submit your information online using the free case evaluation form on the right side of this page.

What Causes 18 Wheeler and Semi-Truck Accidents in Texas?

Texas has one of the highest volumes of commercial truck traffic in the country. With major freight routes running through the state, 18 wheelers and semi-trucks are constantly on the road, increasing the risk of serious crashes.

Common causes of trucking accidents involving big rigs include:

• Driver fatigue from exceeding hours-of-service limits
• Distracted driving, including texting or GPS use
• Speeding or unsafe driving in heavy traffic
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Poor maintenance of semi-trucks or mechanical failures
• Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo on 18 wheelers

When truck drivers or trucking companies fail to operate safely, they may be held accountable for the harm caused.

Who May Be Eligible to File a Texas Truck Accident Lawsuit?

Drivers and passengers injured in accidents involving semi-trucks, 18 wheelers, or other commercial vehicles may qualify to file a personal injury lawsuit.

You may be eligible if:

• You were injured in a crash involving a semi-truck, big rig, or 18 wheeler
• The accident was caused by a truck driver, trucking company, or another third party
• You required medical treatment following the collision
• The accident led to lost income or ongoing health problems

Families who lost a loved one in a fatal 18 wheeler accident may also be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

Each case depends on the facts of the crash and the extent of the injuries.

Who Can Be Held Responsible in a Semi-Truck Accident?

Truck accident cases often involve multiple parties. Determining who is responsible is an important step in pursuing compensation.

Liability may involve:

• The semi-truck driver
• The trucking company or carrier
• Maintenance or repair providers
• Cargo loading companies
• Manufacturers of defective truck parts

Trucking companies and insurers often begin building their defense immediately after a crash. Acting quickly can help preserve key evidence, including driver logs and electronic data from the truck.

Federal Regulations for 18 Wheelers and Commercial Trucks

The trucking industry is regulated by federal safety standards enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules apply to semi-trucks and 18 wheelers operating in Texas and nationwide.

Key regulations include:

• Limits on driving hours to prevent fatigue
• Drug and alcohol testing requirements
• Inspection and maintenance rules for commercial trucks
• Cargo securement standards
• Driver qualification requirements

Violations of these regulations may serve as evidence of negligence in a truck accident lawsuit.

Compensation Available After a Texas Truck Accident

Individuals injured in accidents involving semi-trucks or 18 wheelers may be entitled to compensation depending on the circumstances.

Compensation may include:

• Medical expenses and future care
• Lost wages and reduced earning ability
• Pain and suffering
• Rehabilitation costs
• Permanent disability or impairment
• Funeral expenses in fatal accident cases

Each case is different. The amount of compensation depends on how the injuries have affected your life.

What To Do After an 18 Wheeler Accident in Texas

The steps you take after a crash involving a semi-truck or big rig can impact your ability to pursue a claim.

If possible, you should:

• Seek medical attention immediately
• Report the accident to law enforcement
• Document the crash scene and vehicle damage
• Collect information from witnesses
• Avoid speaking with insurance companies before consulting an attorney

Evidence such as black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records can be critical in these cases.

How Hissey Mulderig & Friend Can Help

Cases involving 18 wheelers and semi-trucks often require detailed investigation and an understanding of federal trucking regulations.

The attorneys at Hissey Mulderig & Friend represent individuals and families affected by serious truck accidents across Texas. The firm works to identify negligence, gather evidence, and pursue compensation on behalf of clients.

If you were injured in a semi-truck or 18 wheeler accident, you may have legal options available.

Drivers who were injured in a car accident or motorcycle accident in Texas may also be eligible to file a claim. Contact the personal injury lawyers at Hissey Mulderig & Friend to find out if you qualify.

Start Your Texas Truck Accident Claim Today

Drivers and passengers injured in accidents involving semi-trucks, 18 wheelers, or big rigs, as well as families who lost a loved one, may qualify to file a lawsuit and receive compensation.

Find out whether you qualify to file a 18 wheeler lawsuit or start your claim today by contacting the law firm of Hissey Mulderig & Friend. Our attorneys are currently accepting trucking accident cases across Texas and nationwide. There are no costs or legal fees unless we win your case. 

Find out if you qualify to take legal action or start your claim today by calling the personal injury lawyers at Hissey Mulderig & Friend toll-free at 1-866-806-8117. You can also reach us by sending us a message online using our free truck accidents case evaluation form, which is located at the top of this page.