What To Do After a Truck Accident on Texas Highways

By Your Health Magazine

Truck accidents on Texas highways are unfortunately common and often devastating. The size and weight of commercial trucks mean even a seemingly minor collision can result in serious injuries or death.

If you’ve been involved in a crash with an 18-wheeler, knowing what steps to take immediately can protect both your health and your legal rights. Understanding Truck Accident Law in Texas is critical in these moments, especially when determining fault and pursuing compensation. Contacting an experienced truck accident lawyer as soon as possible is one of the most important things you can do.

1. Call 911 and Get Medical Attention

Your first priority after a truck accident is safety. If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries appear minor, you should still get checked by medical professionals some injuries don’t show symptoms right away. The official police report created at the scene will also be a crucial piece of evidence in your case, which your truck accident lawyer will use later.

2. Document the Scene

If you’re able, gather evidence at the crash site. Take photos of:

Vehicle damage
Road conditions
Skid marks
Traffic signs
Any visible injuries

Also, collect the names and contact information of witnesses, the truck driver, and the trucking company. This information will help your truck accident lawyer reconstruct the events and establish liability.

3. Don’t Admit Fault or Discuss the Crash

Never apologize or admit fault, even if you think you may have contributed to the accident. Anything you say can be used against you by insurance companies or the trucking company’s legal team. Let the investigation play out, and allow your truck accident lawyer to speak on your behalf.

4. Seek Legal Counsel Immediately

Truck accidents are far more complex than regular car crashes. Multiple parties may be liable, including:

The truck driver
The trucking company
A cargo loader
A parts manufacturer

An experienced truck accident lawyer will investigate all possible sources of liability, collect time-sensitive evidence (like driver logs and black box data), and deal with aggressive insurance adjusters.

Under Texas Truck Accident Law, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and more.

5. Know the Time Limits

Texas has a two-year statute of limitations for most personal injury cases, including truck accidents. That means you must file your claim within two years from the date of the crash. However, acting early gives your truck accident lawyer a better chance to secure vital evidence before it disappears.

For more information on truck safety and regulation, visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

6. Let a Truck Accident Lawyer Handle the Insurance Companies

The trucking company and its insurer will likely have a legal team working to minimize your payout or deny your claim altogether. Don’t negotiate on your own. A truck accident lawyer can protect you from lowball offers, build a strong case, and take your case to court if necessary.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident on a Texas highway, the steps you take immediately afterward can make or break your case. Prioritize your safety, document everything, and most importantly reach out to a skilled truck accident lawyer who understands Truck Accident Law in Texas. With the right legal support, you can focus on healing while your attorney fights for the compensation you deserve.