The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that nearly 4,000 people are killed and approximately 95,000 are injured in truck accidents each year. When a commercial truck collides with a passenger vehicle, occupants of the smaller vehicle often sustain catastrophic injuries.

Truck collisions are typically more complex than standard car accidents, requiring a thorough investigation of all contributing factors. Driver errors—such as speeding, fatigue, distracted driving, use of medications, or driving under the influence—are common causes. In some cases, poorly designed roads or infrastructure may also play a significant role in these severe accidents.

Truck Accidents Caused by Negligent Road Design

Road Design Factors That Contribute to Truck Crashes

Faulty Guardrails: Guardrails are intended to reduce the severity of crashes, but poorly designed or improperly installed guardrails can exacerbate accidents. Proper spacing, beam height, and crash-worthy end treatments are essential to protecting drivers and passengers alike.

Limited Stopping Sight Distance: Trucks require significantly more distance to stop than passenger vehicles—20% to 40% longer. At uncontrolled intersections, insufficient sight lines can make it difficult for truck drivers to see hazards in time to stop safely.

Hazardous Edge Drops: Uneven pavement or sudden drops at road edges can destabilize trucks, causing drivers to lose control, swerve into other vehicles, or overturn. Large trucks and tractor-trailers are particularly vulnerable to edge drops, increasing the risk of catastrophic accidents.

Faulty Transition Areas: Road construction zones and maintenance areas can create dangerous conditions if warnings are missing, transitions are poorly marked, or slow-moving maintenance vehicles are present. Accidents in these areas often give rise to claims against the responsible governmental or maintenance entities.

Truck Accident Resources

• Causes of Truck Accidents

• Jackknife Truck Accidents

• 18-Wheeler/Big Rig Accidents

• T-Bone Truck Accidents

• Trucking Company Liability

• Negligent Hiring and Commercial Trucking Accidents

• Underride Truck Accidents

• Pressures Facing Commercial Truck Drivers

• Road Maintenance and Its Role in Auto Accidents

• Settlements in Truck Accidents

• Frequently Asked Questions About Houston Truck Accident Cases

• Tractor-Trailer Accident Claims in Houston

• Accidents Caused by Truck Driver Drug Use

• Truck Driver Drug Use Accident

Truck Accident Injuries

In Texas, the booming energy industry and heavy commercial traffic mean that large trucks and tractor-trailers regularly share roadways with passenger vehicles. A truck weighing 20–30 times more than a car can cause devastating injuries in a collision.

Victims may suffer:

• Head injuries or traumatic brain injuries

• Fractures or broken bones

• Spinal cord injuries

• Loss of limbs

• Internal injuries requiring extensive medical care

These injuries often require hospitalization, long-term rehabilitation, and time away from work. In some cases, accidents result in death, leaving families to cope with the sudden and traumatic loss of a loved one.

Liability for Road Design Negligence

Under Section 101.021 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, governmental entities can be held liable for personal injury, wrongful death, or property damage caused by defects in public roadways. This includes obligations to maintain safe conditions, warn of hazards, and ensure proper signage.

Texas law, however, imposes specific limitations on claims against the government. A plaintiff must meet certain criteria to pursue compensation, which makes guidance from an experienced personal injury attorney essential.

The Role of a Houston Personal Injury Attorney

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, prompt medical attention is critical. After addressing your immediate health needs, consulting a knowledgeable Houston truck accident attorney can help you:

• Determine the parties responsible for your injuries

• Evaluate potential legal claims

• Navigate the complex litigation process

• Pursue maximum compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering

At Peter Smith & Associates, our Houston personal injury attorneys bring more than three decades of experience handling truck accident claims. Led by award-winning attorney Peter Smith, our firm is committed to aggressively advocating for our clients’ rights and securing the compensation they deserve.

We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover for you. Call 713-766-4417 today to schedule a free consultation with one of our dedicated attorneys.