Truck Accident Causes in San Antonio

Texas roads carry a constant stream of trucks and 18-wheelers, and these massive vehicles can cause catastrophic harm when something goes wrong. If you or a loved one was seriously hurt in a truck accident, finding out what caused it is the first step toward holding the right party accountable. The Daspit Law Firm helps injured people in San Antonio and across South Texas, with a free consultation and no fee unless we win your case.

At The Daspit Law Firm, we are passionate about helping injury victims, and we work hard to secure the support, representation and compensation they deserve. Our San Antonio truck accident lawyers include a former insurance defense attorney, which gives us insight into how trucking companies and their insurers respond to a claim.

Need a San Antonio Personal Injury Lawyer?

Call our legal team today if you are ready to discuss your injury case. You can also read about our truck 18-wheeler accident practice and our broader personal injury services.

Why Finding the Cause of a Truck Accident Matters

In a personal injury claim, liability is one of the most important factors. When you can show that a truck driver, a trucking company or another party was responsible for the crash, you may be able to seek the compensation you need for your injuries and losses. Our attorneys review your collision to determine what went wrong and who may be at fault.

Some causes are out of the driver's hands, but others come from poor decisions, weak training or skipped maintenance. Knowing which applies shapes the whole case.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

We can help review your collision and determine whether any of the following were involved.

Driver Fatigue and Lack of Rest

Long hours and tight delivery schedules can leave drivers tired. Federal hours-of-service rules limit how long a commercial driver may be on the road, and logs and electronic records may show whether those rules were followed.

Failure to Maintain the Vehicle

Brakes, tires, steering and lights on a loaded truck must be inspected and kept in working order. Poor upkeep can lead to brake failure, tire blowouts and other mechanical problems. Learn more about failure to maintain claims.

Improper Training or Instruction

A driver who has not been properly trained may not know how to handle a heavy load, a tight turn or a sudden stop. A trucking company that hires or supervises poorly may share responsibility.

Reckless Driving in Bad Weather

Rain, wind and slick roads call for lower speeds and more following distance. A driver who fails to adjust to weather conditions can put everyone nearby at risk.

Speeding, Aggressive Lane Changes and Other Violations

Speeding, tailgating, unsafe lane changes and other traffic violations are frequent factors. Distracted or impaired driving may also play a role. See our pages on distracted driving and drugged driving.

Vehicle Defects

A defective part, such as a faulty brake component or tire, may point to a manufacturer or parts supplier rather than the driver.

Violations of Trucking Regulations

Commercial trucks and their carriers must follow federal and state safety regulations. A violation, such as overloaded cargo or missing inspection records, can be strong evidence of negligence.

Who May Be Held Responsible

If we find that the truck driver, the trucking company or a manufacturer was at fault for your accident and injuries, we will work to seek the compensation you deserve. More than one party may share responsibility. In Texas, an injured person who is found more than 50 percent responsible for an accident generally cannot recover damages, so a careful investigation matters from the start.

Damages You May Be Able to Recover

Depending on the facts, compensation may include medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and, in some cases, loss of earning capacity. Results vary, and no outcome can be guaranteed.

Talk to a San Antonio Truck Accident Lawyer Today

Do not wait to get the legal guidance you need. Evidence such as driver logs and vehicle data can be lost over time, and Texas generally gives injured people two years to file a personal injury lawsuit. Contact The Daspit Law Firm to schedule a free consultation with our former insurance defense attorney on your side. We take your fight as far as it needs to go.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common cause of truck accidents?

There is no single cause. Driver fatigue, speeding, poor maintenance, improper training, bad weather decisions and vehicle defects all contribute. Often, more than one factor is involved. A full investigation of the driver, the company and the truck helps identify what actually caused your crash.

Who can be held liable for a truck accident in Texas?

Liability may fall on the truck driver, the trucking company, a cargo loader, a maintenance provider or a parts manufacturer. Which parties are responsible depends on the facts. Identifying every responsible party early can matter, since each may have separate insurance coverage.

How long do I have to file a truck accident lawsuit in Texas?

Most Texas personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years of the accident under Civil Practice and Remedies Code Section 16.003. Exceptions can apply, and evidence may disappear sooner, so it is wise to talk with an attorney as soon as you can after a crash.

What should I do after a truck accident?

Get medical care right away, call the police and, if you are able, take photos of the scene, vehicles and your injuries. Collect witness details and avoid giving recorded statements to insurers. Then contact a lawyer so evidence like driver logs and vehicle data can be preserved.

How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer?

Your first consultation is free, and The Daspit Law Firm works on a contingency fee basis, so you do not pay unless we win your case. Contact us to discuss what happened and the options that may be available to you.