Leading Causes of Truck Accidents in Houston and How to File a Claim

Houston is one of the busiest freight corridors in the U.S. With major highways like I-10, I-45, and the Sam Houston Tollway supporting constant commercial traffic, the city is a critical hub for shipping—but also a hotspot for dangerous truck accidents.

If you’ve been involved in a crash, understanding the causes of truck accidents in Houston is the first step in pursuing a legal claim. This guide explains the most common causes, who may be held liable, and how a lawyer can help you recover compensation.

1. Driver Fatigue

Truck drivers often work long hours across multiple states. While federal regulations limit how long they can be on the road, violations are common—especially when companies pressure drivers to meet tight deadlines.

Fatigued drivers are slower to react, more likely to miss hazards, and at risk of falling asleep at the wheel. These accidents often occur on:

• I-10 west of downtown
• SH-99 in suburban delivery corridors
• Early morning or late-night industrial routes

2. Speeding and Reckless Driving

Trucks require far more stopping distance than passenger vehicles. When truckers speed—especially in Houston’s high-volume traffic zones—they put others at risk.

Speed-related crashes are common on:

• I-69 through midtown
• US-290 inbound toward the loop
• I-45 between downtown and Hobby Airport

3. Distracted Driving

Despite strict regulations, distractions are a leading cause of truck accidents. These may include:

• GPS or electronic logging devices
• Cell phone use
• Eating or drinking
• Dispatch system updates

Even a moment of inattention at highway speed can lead to devastating results.

4. Poor Truck Maintenance

Federal law requires routine inspections of truck components like brakes, tires, and lights. When companies skip this maintenance, breakdowns can lead to serious crashes.

Maintenance-related accidents in Houston often involve:

• Tire blowouts on SH-288
• Brake failure on off-ramps or hills
• Trailer disconnection during transport

5. Improperly Loaded Freight

When cargo shifts during transit, it can cause the truck to become unbalanced or jackknife. This is especially risky on tight curves or during sudden braking.

Overloaded or unbalanced trailers are a frequent issue in:

• Warehouse corridors near Port Houston
• Distribution centers in northeast Houston
• Fuel and chemical delivery routes

6. Inadequate Training

Some companies fail to properly train drivers before placing them on busy routes. An undertrained driver may not know how to:

• Brake under load
• Merge safely on urban freeways
• Adjust for weather or traffic conditions

When this happens, the trucking company may be liable for negligent hiring or supervision.

How to File a Truck Accident Claim in Houston

Step 1: Get Medical Care

Visit a hospital or urgent care center immediately—even if your injuries seem minor. Medical documentation is crucial to your claim.

Step 2: Collect Evidence

Take photos, gather witness statements, and get the truck driver’s insurance and license details.

Step 3: File a Police Report

Request a crash report from HPD or the Harris County Sheriff’s Office for documentation.

Step 4: Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer

Trucking companies act quickly after a crash. A Houston truck accident lawyer can launch an investigation, preserve black box data, and communicate with insurance adjusters on your behalf.

Who Could Be Liable?

Truck crashes often involve multiple responsible parties. These may include:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• A freight handler or loader
• A repair or maintenance vendor
• A parts manufacturer (in mechanical failure cases)

Visit our Houston truck accident attorney page to learn more about liability and legal strategies.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

If you were injured in a crash, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Economic Damages:

• Emergency and long-term medical costs
• Lost income or future earning ability
• Property damage and vehicle repair
• Out-of-pocket expenses

Non-Economic Damages:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional trauma
• Disfigurement or loss of mobility
• Loss of companionship (in fatal accident cases)

In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded for gross negligence, such as DUI or repeated safety violations.

What’s the Deadline to File in Texas?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury and truck accident claims is typically two years from the date of the accident.

Certain circumstances—such as government involvement—may require earlier notice. To avoid missing your chance at recovery, speak with a lawyer right away.

Helpful Safety Resource

To learn more about traffic risks and crash prevention in the Houston area, visit the Texas Roadway Safety Program—a state initiative focused on education and enforcement.

Why Choose Zinda Law Group?

At Zinda Law Group, we’ve handled thousands of complex trucking cases across Texas. When you choose us, you’ll receive:

• Free case evaluations
• No fees unless we win
• Trial-ready legal representation
• Access to expert witnesses and investigators
• Responsive, compassionate support from start to finish

Contact a Houston Truck Accident Lawyer Today

If you were hurt in a trucking crash in Houston, you don’t have to face the legal system alone. Zinda Law Group is here to fight for the compensation you deserve.

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