Top Causes of Truck Accidents in El Paso and How to Protect Your Rights

El Paso is a critical link in the national trucking network, sitting along I-10 and U.S. Route 54 with heavy freight traffic entering and exiting from Mexico. Unfortunately, that means local residents face higher risks of serious truck crashes—especially on highways, industrial roads, and construction zones.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash involving a large commercial vehicle, understanding the common causes of truck accidents in El Paso can help you take the right legal steps and recover the compensation you deserve.

Why Truck Accidents Are So Serious

Commercial trucks weigh tens of thousands of pounds and take significantly longer to stop or maneuver. When an 18-wheeler collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often devastating: traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, or fatalities.

Adding to the complexity, truck accident claims often involve:

• Multiple liable parties
• Federal trucking regulations
• High insurance policy limits
• Corporate legal defense teams

That’s why it’s important to contact an experienced El Paso truck accident lawyer

as soon as possible after a crash.

1. Driver Fatigue

Long-haul drivers passing through El Paso may be nearing the end of long shifts, especially those traveling cross-country on I-10. Despite federal hours-of-service limits, many drivers skip rest breaks or falsify logs to meet deadlines.

According to the FMCSA, fatigue is one of the top causes of serious truck crashes in the U.S. Drowsy drivers are slower to react and more likely to drift into adjacent lanes or run off the road.

2. Speeding on Freeways and Border Routes

Speeding is one of the most common causes of truck accidents in El Paso. Truck drivers operating at excessive speeds—especially through highway exits, construction zones, or traffic congestion—are often unable to stop in time.

This is especially risky along:

• I-10 through central and west El Paso
• Highway 54 near Fort Bliss
• The Border Highway and Zaragoza Port of Entry

When a speeding semi-truck loses control, multi-car pileups and jackknife accidents often follow.

3. Distracted Driving

Distractions behind the wheel can be deadly when large trucks are involved. Common distractions include:

• Checking GPS or dispatch systems
• Texting or calling while driving
• Eating or reaching for items in the cab
• Reading logbooks or delivery notes

Even a moment of distraction at highway speed can cause a commercial truck to miss stopped traffic or drift out of its lane.

4. Poor Vehicle Maintenance

Federal regulations require regular inspections and maintenance of commercial trucks. But not all companies follow through. When brakes fail or tires blow out on the road, crashes are inevitable.

Common maintenance-related crash causes include:

• Brake failure on downhill slopes
• Bald or underinflated tires
• Broken tail lights or signals
• Suspension or steering issues

Your attorney can examine maintenance logs to determine if negligence was involved.

5. Improper Cargo Loading

If a trailer’s cargo is not evenly distributed or secured properly, it can shift during transit—causing the truck to jackknife, roll over, or lose control entirely.

Cargo-related crashes often involve third-party freight companies responsible for loading. In these cases, multiple defendants may be liable for the accident.

6. Inexperienced or Unqualified Drivers

With rising demand for freight drivers, some companies rush to hire without proper background checks or training. Inexperienced drivers may lack the skills to:

• Safely navigate city streets
• Merge onto highways
• Brake safely under load
• Adjust to road and weather conditions

When a crash is caused by driver inexperience, the trucking company may be liable for negligent hiring or supervision.

7. Impaired Driving

Although federal law imposes strict drug and alcohol regulations on truck drivers, DUI remains a factor in many trucking accidents. This includes:

• Alcohol
• Illegal drugs
• Prescription meds with sedating effects
• Over-the-counter drugs that impair focus

Victims injured in impaired driving crashes may be entitled to punitive damages in addition to standard compensation.

What to Do After a Truck Crash in El Paso

Knowing what to do after a collision can strengthen your case and protect your health:

1. Call 911 and request emergency services
2. Seek immediate medical care, even if you don’t feel seriously hurt
3. Take photos of the vehicles, injuries, cargo, and road conditions
4. Get contact details for the truck driver, witnesses, and responding officers
5. Do not speak with insurance adjusters before talking to an attorney
6. Read our El Paso Truck Crash Checklist for more post-crash steps

Then, reach out to a truck accident lawyer to begin the legal process.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

Victims of trucking accidents in El Paso may be eligible to recover:

Economic Damages:

• Hospital and ambulance bills
• Ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation
• Lost wages and loss of future income
• Vehicle repairs or replacement

Non-Economic Damages:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress or PTSD
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Scarring or disfigurement

Punitive Damages:

Awarded in rare cases involving gross negligence, such as DUI or repeated safety violations.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in Texas?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. However, trucking cases move fast—evidence like dashcam footage, black box data, and maintenance records can be lost in days or weeks.

To avoid delays and strengthen your case, speak with a lawyer immediately.

Why Work With Zinda Law Group?

Zinda Law Group has extensive experience representing victims of serious truck crashes across Texas, including El Paso. When you work with us, you get:

• Free, no-obligation consultations
• No fees unless we win your case
• Aggressive, trial-ready legal representation
• Resources to take on major trucking companies
• Clear and compassionate communication at every step

We’re here to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Speak With an El Paso Truck Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial truck accident, don’t wait. Our team is ready to investigate your case, gather evidence, and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.

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.