18 WHEELER ACCIDENT

A crash involving an 18-wheeler (big rig) is often more serious than a regular car accident. Due to the size and weight of these commercial trucks, they can cause catastrophic injuries, severe property damage, and overwhelming financial stress. Here's what every Texas driver should understand after such a crash.

YOU HAVE ONLY 2 YEARS TO TAKE ACTION

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim—whether you were hurt, your car was damaged, or both. If you wait too long, you can lose your right to seek compensation.

There are a few exceptions that can extend this deadline:

  • If the victim is a minor, the two-year clock doesn't start until their 18th birthday.
  • If the victim was mentally incapacitated and unable to act, the deadline may be paused until they regain capacity.
  • If the truck involved is owned by a government entity, you must file a notice within six months, and still file the full suit within two years.

LARGE TRUCKS MEAN COMPLEX CLAIMS—AND MULTIPLE PARTIES MAY BE LIABLE

Truck crashes are more complicated than standard car accidents. Depending on who's involved, several people or entities may share fault:

  • The truck driver, if they were negligent—distracted, fatigued, speeding, or under the influence.
  • The trucking company, if they pushed the driver to work too long, failed in training, or ignored safety regulations.
  • Cargo loaders who improperly secured or unbalanced the load, causing the crash.
  • Maintenance teams, if poor upkeep or faulty repair led to failure.
  • Manufacturers, if defective parts and systems caused the truck to malfunction.

Proving liability often requires detailed investigation—everything from driver logs and "black box" data to expert reconstruction and company records.

TEXAS USES "MODIFIED COMPARATIVE FAULT" LAWS

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means:

  • You can still recover money even if you're partly at fault.
  • If you're found 50% or less at fault, you can still get compensation.
  • If you're found more than 50% at fault, you get nothing.

This makes it all the more important to have evidence and legal help right away—so you don't carry a larger share of fault than you should.

WHAT YOU CAN RECOVER

What types of damages can you claim after a serious 18-wheeler accident?

You may be eligible for both:

  • Economic damages: Things like medical bills (past and future), car repair or replacement, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs.
  • Non-economic damages: Compensation for pain and suffering, emotional trauma, disability, disfigurement, or loss of enjoyment of life.

Because these cases can involve injuries or losses in the millions, getting precise documentation and expert help is vital.

WHY YOU SHOULD REACH OUT TO AN ATTORNEY NOW

  • Trucking cases are complicated and require serious investigation.
  • Evidence disappears fast—the earlier you act, the better.
  • A lawyer can help gather records, fight insurance companies, and build your case.
  • If your case is complex or injury is severe, professional guidance is essential to get full & fair compensation.