Truck accidents in Texas can be devastating, often resulting in serious injuries, property damage, and even fatalities. When a commercial truck causes a crash—whether it’s a massive semi-truck on the freeway or a smaller service vehicle like a plumbing truck or delivery van—the question of liability can become complicated. Understanding who is responsible is crucial for victims seeking justice and fair compensation.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a crash caused by a commercial truck, consulting a knowledgeable Texas truck wreck lawyer like our team at the O’Hare and Koch Law Firm can make all the difference in protecting your rights.
Call us today for a free consultation
What Counts as a Commercial Truck in Texas?
Many people automatically think of semi-trucks or big 18-wheelers when they hear “commercial truck.” But in Texas, the term encompasses much more. Any truck that requires a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or is used primarily for business purposes qualifies as a commercial truck. This includes:
- Semi-trucks and tractor-trailers
- Box trucks for delivery companies like Amazon or FedEx
- Plumbing, HVAC, or other service trucks
- Refrigerated trucks hauling perishable goods
- Flatbed trucks carrying construction materials
- Dump trucks, concrete trucks, tow trucks, and utility vehicles
Because these trucks vary in size and function, each accident scenario can be very different. Regardless of the type of commercial truck, these vehicles are often subject to strict safety and regulatory standards due to their size, weight, and commercial nature.
Why Are Truck Accidents Different From Regular Car Crashes?
Commercial trucks are much larger and heavier than passenger vehicles. A fully loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, while even smaller commercial trucks usually exceed the weight of typical cars. This massive difference in size and weight significantly increases the risk of catastrophic damage in a collision.
According to recent data, large trucks were involved in 5,375 fatal crashes in the U.S. in 2023, a 43% increase over the last decade. Additionally, more than 114,000 large trucks were involved in crashes causing injuries, reflecting a 12% rise since 2016. These numbers illustrate the heightened danger commercial trucks pose on the roads.
Moreover, commercial trucks are governed by federal and state regulations designed to improve safety, such as:
- Hours of Service Restrictions — These limit how many hours a driver can operate before taking mandatory rest, reducing fatigue-related accidents.
- Vehicle Maintenance and Inspection Requirements — Regular inspections and maintenance are required to prevent mechanical failures.
- Weight Limits and Cargo Securement Rules — Overloading and unsecured cargo can cause accidents, so strict rules apply.
- CDL Licensing and Training Standards — Commercial drivers must hold a valid CDL and complete special training to ensure safe operation.
Violations of these regulations by drivers or trucking companies often contribute to accidents, making liability questions more complex than typical car crashes. One tragic example happened right here in North Texas, where five people were killed when a commercial truck driver fell asleep at the wheel—an incident tied directly to potential violations of rest requirements and hours-of-service rules.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Texas Truck Accident?
Determining liability in a commercial truck crash often involves multiple parties, unlike standard car accidents. Potentially liable parties include:
1. The Truck Driver
Truck drivers can be held liable if their negligence caused the accident—such as speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, or driving under the influence. Simple mistakes like improper lane changes or ignoring traffic signals may also result in liability.
2. The Trucking Company
Trucking companies may be responsible under vicarious liability if the driver was acting within the scope of their employment during the crash. Companies can also be liable for negligence in:
- Hiring unqualified or unsafe drivers
- Failing to train or supervise drivers properly
- Ignoring maintenance or inspection requirements
- Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service rules or speed limits
3. Maintenance and Repair Providers
Mechanical failures caused by improper maintenance or faulty repairs can lead to accidents. Companies responsible for servicing trucks may share liability in these cases.
4. Cargo Loaders or Shippers
If an accident is caused by improperly loaded or unsecured cargo that shifts during transit, the loading company or shipper may be at fault.
5. Other Drivers or Third Parties
Sometimes other drivers contribute to or cause truck accidents. Defective truck parts or unsafe road conditions may also play a role.
The Role of a Dallas Commercial Truck Crash Attorney
Texas truck accidents often involve multiple liable parties and complex regulations, making legal representation essential. An experienced Dallas truck wreck attorney or Texas truck accident lawyer can:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly, examining driver logs, maintenance records, and cargo manifests
- Identify all liable parties beyond the driver and trucking company
- Work with accident reconstruction experts to prove fault
- Negotiate with large trucking companies and their insurers
- Fight for full compensation covering medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more
What Should You Do After a Texas Truck Accident?
If you’re involved in a crash with a commercial truck, follow these steps to protect your rights:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor as some symptoms may appear later. - Call the Police
A police report provides crucial documentation for your case. - Gather Information
Take photos, video, get the driver’s and trucking company’s details, and collect witness statements if possible. - Avoid Admitting Fault
Don’t make statements that could be used against you later. - Be Wary of Insurance Adjusters
Insurance companies often pressure victims into quick, low settlements or recorded statements that hurt their case. Their adjusters use tactics to trick vulnerable Texans into giving up their rights before understanding the consequences. - Contact a Texas Truck Accident Lawyer
The sooner you get legal help, the better your chances of preserving evidence and building a strong case.
Ready to Talk to a Texas Truck Accident Lawyer?
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a commercial truck crash, our experienced Texas truck accident lawyers at the O’Hare and Koch Law Firm are here to help. Whether it was a semi-truck, delivery truck, or any other commercial vehicle, we know how to hold trucking companies and their insurers accountable. We understand the unique challenges these cases present and we’re committed to fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
