Who Is Liable in a Texas Truck Accident? A Guide for Crash Victims

Who Is Liable in a Texas Truck Accident? A Guide for Crash Victims

Truck accidents in Texas often result in devastating injuries and complex legal battles. Unlike typical car crashes, commercial truck accidents can involve multiple parties, federal regulations, and high-stakes insurance claims. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a collision with an 18-wheeler or other commercial vehicle, understanding liability is crucial to protecting your rights and securing fair compensation.

Why Liability Is Complicated in Truck Accidents

Determining fault in a Texas truck accident is rarely straightforward. Several factors make these cases unique:

• Multiple Potential Defendants: The truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, maintenance providers, and even manufacturers may share responsibility.
• Federal and State Regulations: Trucking companies must comply with strict safety rules, including driver hours, maintenance, and cargo limits.
• Severe Damages: The size and weight of trucks mean injuries and losses are often catastrophic, leading to aggressive defense by insurers.

Who Can Be Held Liable?

Depending on the facts of your case, one or more of the following parties may be responsible:

• Truck Driver: For negligent driving, fatigue, impairment, or traffic violations.
• Trucking Company: For unsafe policies, poor maintenance, negligent hiring, or pressuring drivers to break rules.
• Cargo Loaders: For improperly loaded or unsecured cargo that causes or worsens a crash.
• Maintenance Providers: For failing to properly inspect or repair the truck.
• Manufacturers: For defective parts or equipment that contributed to the accident.
• Other Drivers: If another vehicle’s actions played a role in the crash.

What Evidence Is Important?

To prove liability, your attorney may gather:

• Driver logs and black box data
• Maintenance and inspection records
• Accident scene photos and vehicle damage
• Police and crash reports
• Witness statements
• Company safety records and policies

Preserving evidence is critical—trucking companies may have legal teams working to limit their exposure from day one.

What Should You Do After a Truck Accident?

1. Seek medical attention immediately, even for minor injuries.
2. Call law enforcement and ensure an official report is filed.
3. Document the scene with photos and notes.
4. Get contact information for all drivers and witnesses.
5. Do not discuss fault or sign anything from insurance or trucking representatives.
6. Contact a Texas truck accident attorney as soon as possible.

How Is Fault Determined in Texas?

Texas follows a “modified comparative fault” rule. You can recover damages if you are less than 51% at fault, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. This makes it vital to build a strong case and counter any attempts to shift blame onto you.

Why You Need an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer

Trucking companies and their insurers have significant resources and experience defending claims. An experienced attorney can:

• Investigate all possible sources of liability
• Preserve and obtain crucial evidence
• Handle negotiations with insurers and defense lawyers
• Fight for the full compensation you deserve

Conclusion

Truck accident liability in Texas is complex, but you don’t have to face it alone. If you’ve been injured in a crash with a commercial truck, contact us for a free consultation or call (888) 970-8627. We’re here to help you understand your rights and pursue the justice you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Truck Accident Liability

Can I sue the trucking company after a Texas truck accident?

Yes. Trucking companies can be held liable for their driver’s negligence, unsafe practices, poor maintenance, or violations of safety regulations.

What if I was partially at fault for the truck accident?

You can still recover damages if you were less than 51% at fault, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How soon should I contact a lawyer after a truck accident?

As soon as possible. Evidence can disappear quickly, and trucking companies may act fast to protect themselves.

What damages can I recover after a Texas truck accident?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and more.