Top Causes of Truck Accidents in San Antonio You Should Know

San Antonio’s rapid growth, thriving industries, and heavy highway traffic make it a hub for commercial trucking. Major routes like I-10, I-35, and Loop 410 are filled with 18-wheelers and delivery trucks every day. But with more trucks on the road comes more danger. In fact, the Texas Department of Transportation consistently ranks Bexar County among the top counties for commercial vehicle crashes.

Understanding the top causes of truck accidents in San Antonio is critical—not only for prevention but also for holding negligent parties accountable after a crash. Whether you were hit by a speeding semi-truck or injured due to poor vehicle maintenance, you may be entitled to compensation with the help of an experienced personal injury attorney.

Why Truck Accidents Are So Severe

Unlike regular vehicle collisions, truck accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. A fully loaded truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and requires much more time to stop, especially at high speeds. When things go wrong, the consequences are often devastating—both physically and financially.

That’s why victims of truck accidents should act quickly and speak to a qualified attorney to begin preserving evidence and building a case. To learn more about Texas injury law, check out our page on personal injury representation across Texas.

1. Driver Fatigue

Driver fatigue is one of the most common causes of commercial truck accidents. Federal regulations require truck drivers to take mandatory rest breaks, but pressure from employers or unrealistic delivery schedules can lead to hours-of-service violations.

Fatigued drivers are slower to react, more likely to make errors, and at risk of falling asleep behind the wheel. San Antonio’s long stretches of highway make fatigue-related crashes particularly dangerous on I-37 and rural roadways entering Bexar County.

2. Distracted Driving

Long hours on the road increase the temptation for truck drivers to multitask. Unfortunately, distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents in both commercial and passenger vehicles.

Common distractions include:

• Texting or using a phone
• Adjusting GPS or dispatch systems
• Eating or drinking
• Reaching for objects in the cab

Even a momentary lapse in attention can lead to a major collision, especially when operating a vehicle as large and dangerous as a semi-truck.

3. Speeding and Aggressive Driving

Speeding increases the force of impact in any crash—but for trucks, it’s especially dangerous. Commercial vehicles take longer to slow down and are more likely to lose control when traveling above safe speeds.

Aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating, rapid lane changes, or failing to yield are common contributors to truck crashes on busy corridors like Loop 1604 and US-281.

Victims of these crashes may suffer life-changing injuries and deserve help from an experienced San Antonio truck accident lawyer.

4. Mechanical Failures and Poor Maintenance

Truck owners and operators are legally responsible for keeping their vehicles in good working condition. When brakes fail, tires blow out, or lights malfunction, the results can be deadly.

Mechanical issues that commonly cause truck accidents include:

• Brake failure
• Tire blowouts
• Defective steering
• Burned-out headlights or tail lights
• Worn-out suspension systems

Investigating maintenance records and inspection logs can reveal whether a trucking company neglected safety standards—and whether you may be entitled to compensation.

5. Improper Loading of Cargo

A poorly loaded truck is a dangerous truck. When cargo is improperly secured or overloaded, it can shift during transport and cause the truck to tip, jackknife, or spill its contents onto the road.

These accidents often occur when a third-party freight handler fails to follow proper loading protocols. In these cases, liability may extend beyond the truck driver to the loading company or distributor.

6. Inexperienced or Undertrained Drivers

Driving a commercial truck requires more than just a license. Truck drivers must be trained to handle wide turns, steep grades, and tight city intersections. Unfortunately, some companies cut corners and hire drivers without proper training.

Undertrained drivers are more likely to:

• Misjudge turns
• Overcorrect in emergencies
• Fail to secure cargo properly
• Miss signs of mechanical trouble

Texas law requires trucking companies to vet and train their drivers. If they fail to do so, they may be liable for damages.

7. Driving Under the Influence

Commercial drivers are subject to stricter rules for alcohol and drug use than regular drivers. Still, some truckers operate under the influence of:

• Alcohol
• Illegal drugs
• Prescription medications that impair alertness
• Over-the-counter medications with sedating effects

DUI truck accidents often lead to severe injuries or fatalities—and may warrant punitive damages in addition to traditional compensation.

Who’s Liable in a San Antonio Truck Accident?

Truck accidents are often more complex than standard car crashes because multiple parties may be legally responsible for the outcome.

Potentially liable parties include:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company or carrier
• A third-party maintenance provider
• The cargo loading company
• The vehicle manufacturer (if defective parts are involved)

An experienced attorney can launch a full investigation and identify all sources of liability to maximize your compensation.

What to Do After a Truck Accident in San Antonio

If you’re involved in a crash with a commercial vehicle, here’s what to do next:

1. Call 911 and request medical assistance and law enforcement
2. Seek immediate medical attention, even if symptoms seem minor
3. Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and injuries
4. Get contact information for the truck driver and any witnesses
5. Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters without an attorney
6. Contact a truck accident lawyer to begin protecting your rights

Timing is critical. Data like black box recordings and driver logs can disappear quickly if not preserved.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

If you were injured in a trucking accident caused by negligence, you may be entitled to the following:

Economic Damages:

• Medical bills (past and future)
• Lost wages or reduced earning ability
• Property damage (e.g., vehicle replacement)
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy costs

Non-Economic Damages:

• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish or PTSD
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement or permanent disability

Punitive Damages:

In rare cases involving gross negligence—such as DUI or repeated safety violations—Texas courts may award punitive damages to deter future misconduct.

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?

Texas law typically gives victims two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim. However, key evidence can disappear quickly, especially in truck accident cases.

To preserve your rights and strengthen your case, contact a lawyer as soon as possible.

Why Choose Zinda Law Group?

Zinda Law Group is a nationally recognized personal injury firm with extensive experience handling complex truck accident cases in Texas, including San Antonio.

When you work with us, you get:

• Free consultations
• No fees unless we win
• Experienced trucking attorneys with trial experience
• Access to investigators and expert witnesses
• Responsive, compassionate client care

We’re led by Jack Zinda, a board-certified personal injury attorney known for taking on high-stakes cases and winning results for injury victims.

Talk to a Truck Accident Attorney in San Antonio Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait to get legal help. Understanding the causes of truck accidents in San Antonio is just the beginning. Let us help you fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call 800-863-5312 or visit https://www.zdfirm.com/contact-us/ to schedule your free consultation today.