Leading Causes of Truck Crashes in San Antonio

San Antonio’s highways are constantly busy with commercial traffic—especially along major corridors like I-10, I-35, and Loop 410. These roads see thousands of trucks each day, from long-haul 18-wheelers to local delivery vehicles. With that traffic comes risk: truck accidents are some of the most dangerous and complex crashes on Texas roads.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a trucking collision, understanding the top causes of truck crashes in San Antonio can help you protect your rights, determine liability, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Why Are Truck Crashes So Severe?

Trucks are larger, heavier, and more difficult to control than passenger vehicles. A fully loaded commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and require significantly more time to stop—especially at high speeds. When a crash occurs, the damage is often catastrophic.

Trucking companies and insurers act quickly to protect themselves after a crash, so it’s crucial to speak with an experienced attorney. Learn more about your legal rights on our truck accident lawyer resource page.

1. Driver Fatigue

Long shifts and unrealistic delivery schedules often result in drowsy truck drivers. Federal law requires mandatory breaks and limits on driving hours, but violations are common. Some companies even encourage drivers to skip rest periods to meet deadlines.

Fatigue reduces reaction time, impairs judgment, and increases the risk of falling asleep at the wheel. On San Antonio’s long stretches of interstate, fatigue-related crashes are a major concern.

2. Speeding and Reckless Driving

Speeding is one of the most common causes of truck crashes in San Antonio. Commercial trucks need more distance to stop, and high speeds reduce the driver’s ability to respond to sudden changes in traffic.

Reckless behaviors like tailgating, lane weaving, and failure to yield are especially dangerous when large vehicles are involved. These behaviors are often seen on Loop 1604 and I-35 during rush hour traffic.

3. Distracted Driving

Truck drivers face long hours on the road and may use that time to check dispatch systems, communicate with employers, or scroll their phones. Unfortunately, this can lead to devastating accidents.

Common distractions include:

• Texting or using a smartphone
• Adjusting GPS or entertainment systems
• Eating or drinking
• Reaching for objects inside the cab

Even a moment of inattention can lead to a catastrophic crash.

4. Inadequate Vehicle Maintenance

Trucking companies are legally required to maintain their fleets. When they cut corners, the results can be disastrous.

Common mechanical failures that lead to crashes include:

• Brake malfunctions
• Tire blowouts
• Steering issues
• Malfunctioning lights or turn signals

Improper maintenance puts both the driver and everyone else on the road at risk. A legal investigation can uncover inspection records and repair logs to prove negligence.

5. Improperly Loaded Cargo

If cargo is not properly loaded, secured, or distributed, it can shift during transport—leading to rollovers, jackknifes, or lost control.

Freight loading is often handled by third-party companies. If a crash was caused by unbalanced or unsecured cargo, those parties may be held liable alongside the driver or employer.

6. Unqualified or Undertrained Drivers

Operating a large commercial truck requires specialized skills. Unfortunately, some companies skip proper background checks or rush new hires through training in order to fill staffing shortages.

Undertrained drivers may not know how to:

• Handle emergency situations
• Brake safely on downgrades
• Manage wide turns or limited visibility
• Navigate high-traffic areas like downtown San Antonio

If driver inexperience contributed to your crash, the employer may be found negligent for improper hiring or training practices.

7. Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or certain medications is a serious violation—especially for commercial drivers.

Despite strict regulations, some drivers still operate under the influence of:

• Alcohol
• Illegal substances
• Prescription medications that impair alertness
• Over-the-counter meds that cause drowsiness

DUI-related truck crashes often result in severe injuries or fatalities and may justify punitive damages in a civil lawsuit.

Who’s Liable in a Truck Accident?

Unlike car accidents, truck crashes often involve multiple liable parties, including:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company or carrier
• A third-party maintenance or repair service
• A freight loader or logistics provider
• The vehicle or parts manufacturer

Your attorney can investigate the crash and identify every responsible party to help you recover the maximum compensation available. To learn more about your legal options in Texas, visit our San Antonio truck accident lawyer page.

What Should You Do After a Truck Crash?

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, follow these steps:

1. Call 911 to report the crash and request medical help.
2. Seek immediate medical attention, even for minor symptoms.
3. Take photos of the vehicles, damage, skid marks, and surroundings.
4. Collect contact information for the driver, witnesses, and any company personnel at the scene.
5. Do not speak to insurance adjusters without legal counsel.
6. Contact a truck accident lawyer to begin building your case.

What Compensation Can You Seek?

Victims of truck crashes in San Antonio may be eligible for a range of damages.

Economic Damages:

• Emergency medical bills
• Surgery, physical therapy, and rehabilitation
• Lost wages and loss of future income
• Property damage (vehicle repairs or replacement)

Non-Economic Damages:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Permanent disability or scarring

Punitive Damages:

In cases of extreme negligence—such as DUI or repeated safety violations—courts may award additional damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct.

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for most truck accident claims is two years from the date of the crash. However, certain types of claims—such as those involving government entities—may have shorter deadlines.

Additionally, evidence like black box data, driver logs, and surveillance footage can be lost if not preserved quickly. Early legal action is essential to securing your rights.

Why Choose Zinda Law Group?

Zinda Law Group is a nationally recognized personal injury law firm with extensive experience handling truck accident claims across Texas, including San Antonio.

When you work with us, you get:

• Free consultations
• No fees unless we win your case
• Aggressive representation backed by proven results
• Access to expert witnesses and investigators
• Responsive and compassionate client care

Our firm is led by Jack Zinda, a nationally recognized trial attorney known for holding large companies and insurers accountable on behalf of injury victims.

Speak With a Truck Accident Lawyer Today

If you or someone you love has been injured in a truck crash in San Antonio, don’t wait to get help. Our legal team is here to explain your options, investigate the accident, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call 800-863-5312 or visit https://www.zdfirm.com/contact-us/ to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation today.