Injured by a Semi-Truck? How Texas Law Protects Victims of Commercial Truck Accidents
Understanding the Dangers of Semi-Truck Accidents in Texas
If you've been injured in an accident involving a semi-truck or other commercial vehicle, you're not alone. In Texas, thousands of people are seriously hurt every year in crashes involving 18-wheelers, tractor-trailers, and delivery trucks. Due to their sheer size and weight, these vehicles often cause catastrophic injuries and even death when they collide with smaller passenger cars.
The consequences can be devastating—medical bills, lost income, long-term disabilities, and emotional trauma. That’s why Texas law provides several legal protections to help truck accident victims pursue justice and financial recovery.
In this guide, we’ll explain how truck accident cases differ from regular car crashes, how fault is determined, and what rights you have under Texas law.
Why Truck Accident Cases Are More Complicated
Semi-truck accidents are not just “big car accidents.” They involve complex layers of liability, federal and state trucking regulations, and often powerful insurance carriers and legal teams working on behalf of the trucking companies. Here’s why these cases are more complicated:
1. Multiple Potentially Liable Parties
The truck driver
The trucking company (carrier)
The owner of the truck or trailer
A cargo loading company
Vehicle or parts manufacturers
Maintenance contractors
2. Federal and State Regulations
Commercial trucks are regulated by both the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). These regulations cover everything from:
Hours-of-service limits
Vehicle maintenance logs
Driver licensing (CDL requirements)
Drug and alcohol testing
Cargo loading and securement
Violations of these rules can significantly strengthen your personal injury claim.
3. Higher Insurance Policy Limits
Trucking companies are required to carry high-value insurance policies. That means the potential for larger recoveries—but also more resistance from insurers trying to protect their bottom line.
Texas Law and Fault in Trucking Accidents
Texas is a modified comparative fault state under Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 33.001. This means that if you are found to be less than 51% responsible for the accident, you can still recover damages. However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if a jury awards you $500,000 but finds you 20% at fault, your award will be reduced to $400,000.
Determining fault in a truck accident is a critical part of the legal process and may involve:
Crash reconstruction
Black box data (electronic logging devices)
Driver logs and employment records
Surveillance footage and witness statements
Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents
Truck crashes can happen for a number of reasons, including negligence, mechanical failure, and regulatory violations. Some of the most common causes include:
Driver fatigue (in violation of FMCSA hours-of-service rules)
Speeding or reckless driving
Improper lane changes
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Poor truck maintenance
Overloaded or unsecured cargo
Distracted driving
Inadequate driver training
Common Injuries in Texas Truck Accidents
Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks—often exceeding 80,000 pounds—injuries are usually severe or catastrophic. Victims may suffer:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
Multiple fractures
Burns and disfigurement
Internal organ damage
Crushed limbs requiring amputation
Psychological trauma such as PTSD
These injuries may require lifelong treatment and create lasting financial burdens for victims and their families.
What Compensation Can You Pursue After a Truck Accident in Texas?
A successful truck accident claim may allow you to seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including:
Economic Damages:
Emergency medical care and hospitalization
Surgery and rehabilitation
Future medical expenses
Lost wages and future earning capacity
Vehicle repair or replacement
Non-Economic Damages:
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Loss of consortium
Loss of enjoyment of life
In rare cases where gross negligence is proven, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the wrongdoer.
Time Limits for Filing a Truck Accident Claim in Texas
Texas law sets strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims. Under the Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident.
Failing to file within this period could result in losing your right to pursue compensation. There are some exceptions, but time is critical. That’s why it’s important to speak with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
The Role of a Truck Accident Lawyer in Texas
When you’re going up against a trucking company or its insurer, having a dedicated legal team on your side can make all the difference. At Carrollton Injury Law, we’re committed to putting the “Personal” back in Personal Injury Law.
Here's what we do for you:
Conduct a full investigation of the accident
Preserve and obtain key evidence
Handle all communications with insurers
Work with medical experts to prove injury severity
Calculate full and fair compensation
Negotiate aggressively or take your case to trial if needed
We focus on your case, so you can focus on healing.
How Trucking Companies Try to Avoid Liability
Many trucking companies respond immediately after a crash with legal and insurance teams that work to reduce their exposure. They may:
Blame you for the accident
Alter or withhold evidence
Pressure you into quick lowball settlements
Argue your injuries were pre-existing
Without legal representation, you may unknowingly accept far less than what your claim is worth.
Protecting Your Rights After a Truck Accident
If you or a loved one is injured in a crash with a semi-truck, take these steps to protect your rights:
1. Get Medical Help Immediately
Even if injuries seem minor at first, some symptoms may worsen over time.
2. Call Law Enforcement
A police report is critical for documenting the facts and parties involved.
3. Gather Evidence
Take photos, get witness names, and keep any medical or crash-related documents.
4. Do Not Talk to the Trucking Company’s Insurance Adjuster
They are trained to minimize your claim. Let your attorney handle all communication.
5. Contact a Carrollton Truck Accident Lawyer
Legal representation early on ensures that your rights are preserved and your case is strong from the beginning.
Why Carrollton Injury Law Is Different
At Carrollton Injury Law, we understand how overwhelming it is to face serious injuries, mounting bills, and uncertainty after a truck accident. That’s why we take a client-first approach to every case. You won’t be treated like a number—you’ll be treated like family.
We Offer:
Free injury claim evaluation
No upfront fees—we don’t get paid unless you do
Clear communication and consistent updates
Local service with statewide reach across Texas
We proudly serve clients in Carrollton, Frisco, Dallas, Plano, McKinney, and throughout the state of Texas.
Truck Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims in Texas
In cases where a loved one is killed in a semi-truck accident, eligible family members may file a wrongful death claim under Texas law. Compensation can help cover:
Funeral and burial expenses
Loss of financial support
Mental anguish and emotional suffering
Loss of companionship
Families deserve compassionate, experienced representation when navigating these emotionally difficult claims.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Face the Trucking Industry Alone
You’re not powerless after a truck accident. Texas law offers clear avenues to pursue justice and compensation—but only if you act quickly and assert your rights.
Let Carrollton Injury Law stand up for you against the trucking companies and insurers. We’ll guide you through every step of the process with care, skill, and a commitment to getting you the outcome you deserve.
Schedule Your Free Evaluation Today
If you’ve been injured in a semi-truck accident in Texas, don’t wait. The sooner we can get to work on your case, the better your chances of a strong result. Contact Carrollton Injury Law today to learn your legal options and start the road to recovery.
