Few collisions are as devastating as those involving an 18-wheeler. These massive commercial vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, and when something goes wrong, the results are often catastrophic. Victims are left facing serious injuries, emotional trauma, and overwhelming financial burdens.
At Grimes & Fertitta, our Houston and The Woodlands truck accident lawyers have seen firsthand how negligent trucking companies and drivers put innocent motorists at risk. If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler crash, knowing your legal rights is the first step toward recovery.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents
- Driver fatigue (hours-of-service violations and unrealistic schedules)
- Distracted driving (texting, GPS, in-cab systems)
- Improper maintenance (worn brakes, tires, mechanical failures)
- Overloaded or unsecured cargo (shifting loads, rollovers)
- Speeding and reckless driving (longer stopping distances)
- Impaired driving (alcohol, drugs, certain prescriptions)
Who Can Be Held Liable?
Determining fault in a trucking accident is complex. Multiple parties may share responsibility, including:
- The truck driver for negligent driving behavior
- The trucking company for unsafe hiring, poor training, or pushing drivers beyond legal limits
- The maintenance provider for failing to keep the vehicle safe
- The cargo loaders for improper securing or overloading
- The truck/parts manufacturer for defects
Your attorney should quickly preserve driver logs, event data recorder (black box) data, dispatch notes, and maintenance records to build a strong claim.
Compensation Available After an 18-Wheeler Accident
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages (for surviving family members)
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident
- Call 911 and get medical attention immediately.
- Do not admit fault or provide detailed statements to the trucking company’s insurer.
- Document the scene—photos, witness info, and any visible hazards or debris.
- Preserve evidence—keep medical records, bills, repair estimates, and correspondence.
- Call a truck accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Why Choose Grimes & Fertitta
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges after a trucking crash. Our team knows how to take on big trucking corporations and their insurers—and win. We offer personalized legal guidance, aggressive representation, and compassionate support every step of the way.
Related reading: Truck Accident Lawyer | Commercial Vehicle Accidents | About Our Firm
Free Consultation: Talk to a Texas Truck Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident, don’t wait. Evidence disappears quickly. Contact Grimes & Fertitta to protect your rights today.
18-Wheeler Accident FAQs
Who can be held liable after an 18-wheeler accident?
Potentially the driver, trucking company, maintenance provider, cargo loaders, and parts manufacturers, depending on the facts.
What compensation can I recover?
Medical costs, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, property damage, and in fatal cases, wrongful death damages.
What should I do right after a truck crash?
Call 911, get medical care, avoid admitting fault, document and preserve evidence, then speak to an experienced truck accident lawyer.
