Common Causes of Truck Accidents in El Paso and Who May Be Liable

As a vital trucking corridor along the Texas-Mexico border, El Paso sees a high volume of freight activity every day. With I-10, US-54, Loop 375, and major ports of entry funneling commercial traffic through the city, crashes involving large trucks are unfortunately common.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a collision with a semi-truck, knowing the leading truck accident causes in El Paso—and who may be liable—can help you take the right steps to protect your rights.

Why El Paso Is a Trucking Hotspot

El Paso’s strategic location makes it one of the busiest commercial entry points in the U.S. Cross-border deliveries, local warehouse hubs, and cross-country freight all converge here. That means:

• High volumes of long-haul trucks
• Congested highway and urban traffic
• Complex trucking regulations involving interstate and international rules

This environment creates a perfect storm of risks for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.

Top Causes of Truck Accidents in El Paso

1. Driver Fatigue

Truck drivers often operate on tight schedules and long routes. Federal law limits driving hours, but violations remain common. Fatigue leads to slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and in some cases, falling asleep at the wheel.

Areas like I-10 eastbound or the Transmountain Road corridor are known routes for fatigued drivers finishing or starting long hauls.

2. Speeding and Aggressive Driving

Truckers trying to make delivery deadlines sometimes speed through urban zones, fail to yield, or change lanes aggressively. A speeding truck has a much longer stopping distance and creates a higher impact in collisions.

This is particularly dangerous in industrial areas near the Bridge of the Americas or congested zones near Loop 375.

3. Inadequate Driver Training

Inexperienced or undertrained drivers may not know how to brake properly under load, handle downhill grades, or respond to emergency situations. Employers have a duty to ensure that their drivers are properly licensed and trained under federal and OSHA safety standards.

If a company fails to train its drivers adequately, they may be liable for negligent hiring or supervision.

4. Overloaded or Improperly Secured Cargo

If cargo shifts during transport, it can destabilize the truck and lead to jackknife accidents or rollovers. This is especially risky on sharp turns or steep roadways like those on Scenic Drive or Transmountain.

Responsibility may lie with:

• The driver
• A third-party freight handler
• A warehouse or logistics provider

5. Brake and Equipment Failures

Brakes, tires, and couplings must be regularly inspected and maintained. When companies skip these safety checks, they put everyone at risk.

Examples include:

• Tire blowouts
• Worn brake pads
• Faulty trailer hitches
• Lighting system failures

Your lawyer can help uncover inspection records and maintenance logs to determine liability.

6. Distracted Driving

Truckers distracted by mobile phones, dispatch systems, or GPS devices may miss stop signs, fail to notice merging traffic, or drift into other lanes. These distractions are a major contributor to trucking crashes in El Paso and across Texas.

Who May Be Liable in a Truck Accident?

Truck accidents often involve more than one responsible party. A thorough investigation can identify all parties who may be held liable, including:

The Truck Driver

If the driver was speeding, distracted, impaired, or fatigued, they may be personally responsible for causing the crash.

The Trucking Company

If the company failed to vet drivers, enforce safety protocols, or perform vehicle maintenance, it may share or carry full liability.

Cargo Loaders or Freight Handlers

Improper loading can lead to dangerous shifts in weight or falling cargo. These third parties may be liable for cargo-related crashes.

Maintenance Contractors

If the truck was serviced by a third party and mechanical failure led to the crash, that vendor may also be at fault.

Vehicle Manufacturers

If a defective brake or steering system contributed to the crash, the truck or part manufacturer may face a product liability claim.

What to Do After a Truck Crash in El Paso

After a crash, the steps you take can greatly affect the strength of your injury claim. Here’s what to do:

1. Call 911 and report the accident
2. Seek immediate medical care, even if you think you’re okay
3. Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, injuries, and the truck
4. Collect witness statements and the truck driver’s insurance info
5. Don’t talk to the trucking company’s insurer without legal representation
6. Contact an experienced truck accident attorney to begin your case

To explore your options further, visit our El Paso truck accident lawyer page for legal help and resources.

What Damages Can You Recover?

Victims of truck accidents may be entitled to financial compensation for both economic and non-economic damages:

Economic Damages:

• Medical bills and future treatment costs
• Lost wages or earning capacity
• Vehicle repair or replacement
• Out-of-pocket expenses related to the crash

Non-Economic Damages:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional trauma
• Disfigurement or scarring
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Punitive Damages:

If the crash involved drunk driving, illegal conduct, or reckless disregard for safety, you may also be eligible for punitive damages.

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury and truck accident claims is two years from the date of the crash. If you miss this window, your claim could be dismissed.

Important evidence like driver logs, black box data, and maintenance records can be lost quickly—so don’t delay in contacting a lawyer.

Why Choose Zinda Law Group?

Zinda Law Group has helped thousands of clients injured in trucking crashes across Texas, including El Paso. Our clients choose us because we provide:

• Free case evaluations
• No fees unless we win your case
• Access to expert witnesses and investigators
• Aggressive representation in and out of court
• Personal, responsive legal service

We understand what’s at stake—and we fight to protect your rights.

Speak With an El Paso Truck Accident Attorney Today

If you were hurt in a truck accident, the time to act is now. Let Zinda Law Group help you recover the compensation you need to move forward after a devastating crash.

Call 800-863-5312 or visit https://www.zdfirm.com/contact-us/ to schedule your free consultation with an El Paso truck accident lawyer today.