Austin Truck Accident Lawyer

Injured in a truck accident in Austin? Our attorneys take on trucking companies and their insurers to fight for maximum compensation.

Austin Truck Accident Lawyer

Why You Need a Austin Truck Accident Lawyer

Commercial truck accidents in Austin often result in catastrophic injuries or death. With fully loaded trucks weighing up to 80,000 pounds, the physics of a collision between a big rig and a passenger vehicle are devastating. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck crash, you need a Austin truck accident lawyer who understands federal trucking regulations and can take on powerful trucking companies.

Truck accident cases are fundamentally different from car accident cases. Multiple parties may share liability, including the driver, trucking company, cargo loader, and maintenance provider. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations create additional standards of care. Evidence like electronic logging device (ELD) data must be preserved quickly before it's destroyed.

In Austin, truck accidents frequently occur on Interstate 35 (I-35), MoPac Expressway (Loop 1), US Highway 183 and US Highway 290 East, where commercial traffic mixes with commuters. These crashes often involve hours-of-service violations, inadequate training, improper cargo loading, or deferred maintenance. Our team knows how to investigate trucking company records and hold all responsible parties accountable.

Truck Accident Statistics in Austin

Austin and Travis County see thousands of motor vehicle accidents each year. Understanding the scope of the problem shows why experienced legal representation is essential:

19,847 Total Crashes (2023)
87 Fatal Crashes
412 Serious Injury Crashes

Leading Cause: Failure to control speed

These statistics represent real people whose lives were impacted by negligent drivers. If you've been injured, our Austin attorneys are here to help you get the compensation you deserve.

Dangerous Roads for Truck Accidents in Austin

Understanding where accidents happen most frequently can help you stay safe—and helps our attorneys build stronger cases when accidents do occur. Here are Austin's most dangerous roads:

Interstate 35 (I-35)

Texas's deadliest interstate runs through downtown Austin. The stretch between US-290 and SH-71 sees over 100 crashes annually due to heavy congestion and construction.

High-risk areas: I-35 at US-290 interchange, I-35 at Ben White Blvd, I-35 Upper/Lower Deck split

MoPac Expressway (Loop 1)

High-speed commuter corridor with frequent rear-end collisions during rush hour. The toll lanes create dangerous merge points.

High-risk areas: MoPac at 2222 interchange, MoPac at Parmer Lane, MoPac at 360 junction

US Highway 183

Major north-south artery connecting Cedar Park to Austin-Bergstrom Airport. High crash rates near shopping centers and interchanges.

High-risk areas: 183 at Braker Lane, 183 at Research Blvd, 183 at I-35

US Highway 290 East

Growing corridor to Manor and Elgin sees increasing accidents as development outpaces road improvements.

High-risk areas: 290 at I-35, 290 at SH-130, 290 at FM 973

State Highway 71

High-speed highway to Austin-Bergstrom Airport with fatal crashes at major intersections.

High-risk areas: SH-71 at US-183, SH-71 at SH-130, SH-71 at Ben White Blvd

Why Choose a Local Austin Attorney?

Truck accidents in Austin require attorneys who know both local roads and federal trucking law. We understand which Travis County judges are receptive to trucking cases and how local juries evaluate evidence of corporate negligence. Our relationships with accident reconstruction experts and trucking industry consultants give us an edge in building winning cases.

Time is especially critical in truck accident cases. Trucking companies send rapid response teams to accident scenes to begin building their defense. ELD data can be overwritten within days. We immediately send spoliation letters to preserve evidence and begin our independent investigation while the trail is fresh.

Types of Truck Accident Cases We Handle

18-Wheeler Accidents

The largest and most dangerous trucks on the road, capable of causing mass casualty events.

Delivery Truck Accidents

Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and other delivery drivers under pressure to meet deadlines often cut corners on safety.

Tanker Truck Accidents

Liquid cargo shifts unpredictably, causing rollovers. Hazardous materials add explosion and contamination risks.

Dump Truck Accidents

Construction vehicles with large blind spots and unsecured loads create roadway hazards.

Garbage Truck Accidents

Frequent stops in residential areas and large blind spots lead to pedestrian and cyclist injuries.

Tow Truck Accidents

Improperly secured vehicles can break loose, and roadside operations create dangerous conditions.

Medical Care After a Truck Accident in Austin

Getting proper medical care after an accident is crucial—both for your health and your legal case. Austin has excellent medical facilities for treating accident injuries:

Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas

1500 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701

Trauma Level: Level I

Specialties: Trauma, Neurosurgery, Burn Care

St. David's Medical Center

919 E 32nd St, Austin, TX 78705

Trauma Level: Level II

Specialties: Cardiac Care, Orthopedics, Stroke Center

Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin

1201 W 38th St, Austin, TX 78705

Trauma Level: Level II

Specialties: Orthopedics, Heart Care, Cancer Treatment

St. David's South Austin Medical Center

901 W Ben White Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

Trauma Level: Level III

Specialties: Emergency Care, Orthopedics, Women's Services

Important: Always seek medical attention after any accident, even if you feel fine. Some injuries don't show symptoms immediately. Medical documentation also strengthens your legal case.

Texas Truck Accident Laws

Understanding Texas law is crucial for maximizing your recovery. Here are key legal principles affecting truck accident cases:

The Legal Process for Truck Accidents in Travis County

Understanding how the legal system works in Travis County can help set expectations for your case:

Travis County Courthouse

Address: 1000 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78701

District Courts: 126th, 167th, 200th, 201st, 250th, 261st, 299th, 331st, 345th, 353rd, 390th, 403rd, 419th, 427th, 450th, 459th District Courts

Filing: Travis County District Clerk's Office

Typical Case Timeline

Personal injury cases in Travis County typically take 12-24 months from filing to trial, though complex cases may take longer.

Our attorneys regularly appear in Travis County courts and understand local procedures, judges, and what works with local juries. This experience helps us navigate your case efficiently and effectively.

Compensation for Austin Truck Accident Victims

Victims of truck accidents in Austin may be entitled to significant compensation including:

Medical Expenses

Emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and all ongoing treatment costs

Lost Income

Current lost wages, future lost earnings, reduced earning capacity, and lost benefits

Pain & Suffering

Physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life

Property Damage

Vehicle repair or replacement, personal property damage, and rental car expenses

Frequently Asked Questions About Austin Truck Accidents

Who is liable in a Austin truck accident?

Multiple parties may share liability: the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loading company, maintenance provider, truck or parts manufacturer, and even the shipper if cargo was improperly described. An experienced attorney investigates all potentially responsible parties.

How are truck accident cases different from car accidents?

Truck cases involve federal regulations, multiple defendants, larger insurance policies ($750,000-$1 million minimum), and more severe injuries. They require specialized investigation including ELD data analysis, driver qualification file review, and maintenance record examination.

What compensation can I receive for a truck accident injury?

Truck accident settlements are typically larger than car accident cases due to severe injuries and higher insurance limits. Compensation includes medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potentially punitive damages. Many cases settle for six or seven figures.

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

The statute of limitations is two years from the accident date. However, preserving evidence requires immediate action—ELD data and maintenance records can be legally destroyed after six months if not preserved.

Where do most truck accidents happen in Austin?

In Austin, truck accident accidents frequently occur on Interstate 35 (I-35) (particularly near I-35 at US-290 interchange), MoPac Expressway (Loop 1) (particularly near MoPac at 2222 interchange), US Highway 183 (particularly near 183 at Braker Lane). These roads see heavy traffic and multiple factors contribute to their high accident rates.

What medical facilities treat truck accident victims in Austin?

Due to the severity of truck accident injuries, victims often need Level I or Level II trauma centers. In the Austin area, Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas provides trauma care for serious injuries including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and internal injuries.

Should I talk to the trucking company's insurance adjuster?

No. Trucking company insurers are experienced at getting victims to make statements that hurt their cases. They may record calls, ask leading questions, and use your words against you. Let an attorney handle all insurance communication.

What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?

A spoliation letter legally requires the trucking company to preserve all evidence including ELD data, driver logs, maintenance records, dash cam footage, and dispatch communications. Without this letter, companies may legally destroy evidence that could prove your case.

Injured in Austin? Get Help Now

Our experienced Austin truck accident attorneys are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Free consultation—no fees unless we win.

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