Top Causes of Truck Accidents in Tucson and What You Can Do Next

Tucson plays a key role in Arizona’s freight traffic, with major routes like I-10 and SR-77 handling constant commercial trucking. While this traffic supports the state’s economy, it also increases the risk of serious collisions involving large commercial vehicles.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash with an 18-wheeler or delivery truck, learning about the most common truck accidents in Tucson can help you understand what happened—and what legal options you have moving forward.

Why Truck Crashes in Tucson Are So Dangerous

Unlike typical car accidents, truck crashes often result in catastrophic damage. A fully loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and take much longer to stop than a car. When something goes wrong, injuries can include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord damage
• Internal bleeding
• Broken bones
• Wrongful death

Tucson’s mix of urban congestion, high-speed freeways, and rural routes adds to the danger—especially when drivers or companies cut corners.

1. Driver Fatigue

Long-haul truck drivers often face pressure to meet deadlines. This can lead them to skip rest breaks or falsify their driving logs. Fatigue reduces a driver’s ability to focus, react, and make safe decisions on the road.

Fatigue-related truck crashes in Tucson are especially common on:

• I-10 between Tucson and Phoenix
• SR-86 through the Tohono O’odham Nation
• US-191 southbound freight corridors

2. Speeding and Reckless Driving

When truck drivers speed—especially in construction zones or through city streets—they significantly increase the risk of severe crashes. Large trucks require more distance to stop and are more likely to lose control when speeding downhill or around curves.

Speed-related truck crashes frequently occur on:

• Kino Parkway
• I-10 east of Tucson
• The Valencia and Kolb industrial zone

3. Distracted Driving

Truck drivers are legally prohibited from texting while driving under federal law, yet distractions remain a common cause of collisions.

Types of distraction include:

• Adjusting GPS systems or radios
• Eating or drinking behind the wheel
• Using dispatch or delivery tablets
• Texting or checking a phone

Even a two-second glance away from the road can lead to a devastating crash—especially at highway speeds.

4. Inadequate Training or Licensing

Arizona requires commercial truck drivers to hold a valid CDL and complete specific training requirements. However, some companies cut corners, allowing underqualified drivers behind the wheel.

If a trucking company hires or keeps a driver who lacks proper training or licensing, they may be liable for negligent hiring. Learn more about CDL rules from the Arizona Department of Transportation.

5. Improper Cargo Loading

A poorly loaded trailer can lead to a jackknife, rollover, or spilled cargo crash. These accidents often involve:

• Unbalanced freight
• Overloaded trailers
• Missing or loose tie-downs

In many cases, third-party freight handlers or warehouse teams may share liability with the driver or carrier.

6. Equipment Failures

Trucking companies are responsible for maintaining brakes, tires, lights, and other vehicle systems. When they don’t, mechanical issues can turn deadly.

Common maintenance-related crash causes:

• Brake failure
• Tire blowouts
• Broken tail lights or turn signals
• Malfunctioning coupling systems

These issues often show up in post-crash inspections and can be a strong factor in proving negligence.

What To Do After a Truck Accident in Tucson

After a serious truck crash, the steps you take can help protect your health—and your legal rights:

1. Call 911 and report the accident to law enforcement
2. Get medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
3. Take photos of the crash scene, damage, and injuries
4. Collect contact info from witnesses and the truck driver
5. Avoid speaking to the trucking company’s insurer
6. Contact an experienced truck accident attorney

Who Could Be Liable?

Truck crashes are often more complex than regular car accidents. Liability may fall on one or more of the following parties:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• A maintenance contractor
• A freight loader
• A truck or part manufacturer

An experienced attorney can help identify each liable party and build a strong claim against them.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

If you’ve been injured due to a truck driver or company’s negligence, you may be entitled to financial compensation for:

Economic Damages:

• Emergency room and hospital bills
• Ongoing medical care and physical therapy
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Property damage (e.g., vehicle repair)

Non-Economic Damages:

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

In extreme cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish gross negligence—such as DUI or repeated safety violations.

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

Arizona’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including truck accidents, is typically two years from the date of the crash.

However, certain deadlines may be shorter if:

• A government vehicle was involved
• You were under 18 at the time of the crash
• The injury was not discovered right away

To avoid missing your window to file, consult a lawyer as soon as possible.

Why Choose Zinda Law Group?

Zinda Law Group has helped thousands of accident victims nationwide—including many in Arizona. When you work with us, you’ll get:

• Free consultations
• No fees unless we win
• Top-tier legal representation
• Access to expert witnesses and investigators
• Personalized, client-first support

Our team is ready to go up against trucking companies and insurers on your behalf.

Talk to a Tucson Truck Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Tucson, don’t wait to get help. Let Zinda Law Group investigate your case and pursue the compensation you deserve.

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