Navigating Catastrophic Injury Claims After Trucking Accidents in Texas

Trucking accidents in Texas often lead to some of the most severe and life-altering injuries on the road. With thousands of commercial vehicles moving across I-10, I-35, I-37, and other major corridors every day, a collision with an 18-wheeler can create forces far greater than those seen in standard passenger-vehicle crashes. 

 

Families and individuals suddenly find themselves facing medical emergencies, long-term recovery questions, and uncertainty about what comes next. Understanding how catastrophic injury claims work in Texas can help you take clear, steady steps forward.

Why Trucking Accidents Cause Catastrophic Harm

Commercial trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—nearly 20–30 times more than a passenger car, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Because of this size and weight difference:

Impacts Are More Severe

High-energy crashes often lead to traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations, severe burns, and organ damage.

Stopping Distance is Greater

A fully loaded 18-wheeler needs significantly more distance to stop, especially at highway speeds.

Complex Crash Types Are Common

Jackknife collisions, underride crashes, and rollovers frequently result in catastrophic injuries.

Common Causes of Catastrophic Trucking Accidents in Texas

1. Driver Fatigue

Despite hours-of-service rules, fatigue can still be a factor in severe truck crashes.

2. Speeding and Unsafe Driving

Higher speeds increase crash severity and reduce a trucker’s ability to stop.

3. Distracted Driving

Texting, navigation systems, and in-cab technology can all contribute to distraction.

4. Mechanical Failures

Poorly maintained brakes, tires, or trailer components can fail under stress.

5. Improper Loading or Cargo Shift

Uneven or unsecured cargo can cause a truck to roll over, jackknife, or lose control.

6. Impaired Driving

Alcohol, drugs, or certain medications can reduce reaction time and decision-making.

What Makes Texas Trucking Injury Claims More Complicated

Unlike a standard car accident, catastrophic injury claims for trucking accidents involve multiple layers of evidence and several potentially responsible parties.

Multiple Parties May Be Liable

• Truck driver.
   
• Trucking company/employer.
• Cargo loading team.
   
• Vehicle maintenance contractor.
   
• Parts or equipment manufacturers.
   
• Freight brokers or third-party logistics companies.

Commercial Vehicles Carry More Evidence

Important evidence may include:

• Black box (EDR/ECM) data.
   
• Driver logbooks.
   
• Hours-of-service records.
   
• Dashcam footage.
   
• GPS and telematics data.
   
• Maintenance and inspection records.

Federal and State Rules Apply

Truckers and carriers must comply with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, and violations can play a significant role in determining liability.

 

Types of Catastrophic Injuries Seen in Trucking Crashes

Trucking collisions often result in injuries that require long-term treatment or permanent lifestyle changes.

Common Injuries iInclude:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
   
• Spinal cord injuries.
   
• Severe burns.
   
• Amputations.
   
• Multiple fractures.
   
• Damage to vital organs.
   
• Long-term mobility limitations.

These injuries often require extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and ongoing support.

 

Steps to Take After a Catastrophic Trucking Accident

Families facing a catastrophic injury can take several necessary steps to protect their loved one’s health and the strength of any future claim.

1. Prioritize Medical Care

Follow all medical advice and attend follow-up appointments. Documentation is critical.

2. Preserve Evidence Early

• Photos and videos.
   
• Vehicle damage documentation.
   
• Names of witnesses.
   
• Any available police reports.
   

3. Track All Medical and Recovery Information

• Hospital stays.
   
• Rehabilitation.
   
• Surgeries.
   
• Specialist visits.
   
• Home modifications.
   
• Lost work or income.
   

4. Understand That Trucking Companies Move Quickly

Commercial carriers often deploy lawyers and investigators within hours. Families may not realize how fast evidence can be altered or lost.

5. Consider Speaking With an 18 Wheeler Accident Attorney

Because multiple parties may be involved and commercial regulations apply, many families choose to speak with a San Antonio personal injury lawyer to understand their options and the next steps.

 

What Compensation May Cover in Catastrophic Injury Claims

Potential Compensation Categories Include:

• Emergency medical treatment.
   
• Ongoing medical care and rehabilitation.
   
• Future surgeries.
   
• Lost wages and future earning capacity.
   
• Adaptive equipment or home modifications.
   
• Long-term nursing or home assistance.
   
• Pain, physical limitations, and long-term impact on daily life.
   

Each case is unique, and compensation depends on the circumstances of the accident and the severity of the injuries.

 

How a Texas Personal Injury Attorney Helps Families Facing Catastrophic Harm

A lawyer experienced in trucking and catastrophic injury cases can help families by securing critical evidence—such as black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records—before it is lost, evaluating all potentially responsible parties, and coordinating with accident reconstruction and medical experts to understand the full scope of the injuries. 

A catastrophic injury attorney can also assist in calculating long-term care needs, communicating with insurers and commercial carriers, and preparing a case for litigation when necessary. For many families, having support during this process provides clarity and helps ensure that nothing important is overlooked during an already overwhelming time.

Schedule a free case evaluation today.