Texas is an immense state, with tens of thousands of miles of roads and highways connecting it with neighboring areas. Businesses use this network of highways to transport goods via large commercial trucks. While it may be necessary, the presence of these vehicles on highways inevitably leads to trucking accidents.
Not every highway in Texas is equally suited to safe commercial trucking operations. For this reason, some see a greater number of injuries and fatal accidents than others. All motorists need to be aware of these roads where their chances of being harmed are elevated.
An Overview of Texas Truck Accident Statistics
There were 39,393 trucking accidents reported across Texas in 2024. More than 600 people died in these wrecks, and another 1,601 were believed to be seriously hurt. The prior year, Texas saw more than 700 large truck-related deaths, the highest number of such fatalities in the nation and more than twice as many as California.
Overall, there were 4,150 traffic fatalities in Texas in 2024. This means that fatalities from trucking accidents represented about 14% of all motor vehicle accident fatalities in the state, despite estimates that commercial trucks only make up about 5% of all registered motor vehicles on the road.
7 Highways and Roads With the Most Trucking Accidents
Based on data from 2021, the following highways and interstates in Texas have been identified as having an elevated number of traffic fatalities:
- Interstate 45 in Houston (92 fatalities)
- Interstate 10 in Houston (58 fatalities)
- Interstate 10 in El Paso/Houston (45 fatalities)
- Interstate 20 in Dallas (36 fatalities)
- Interstate 30 in Dallas (34 fatalities)
- Interstate 35E in Dallas (19 fatalities)
- Interstate 35W in Fort Worth (17 fatalities)
These statistics account for all motorists who perished in any type of motor vehicle accident, including trucking accidents. As such, drivers using any of these roads are at an increased risk of injury or death.
Why Do Trucking Accidents Happen So Often on These Roads?
No matter where trucking accidents occur, these dangerous events can come about due to one or more of the following contributing factors:
- A truck driver who is distracted or impaired behind the wheel
- Speeding truckers rushing to make a delivery
- Roads with sharp curves or inclines that are difficult for truck drivers to safely maneuver
- Inclement weather like rain, snow, and ice, which makes it difficult for trucks to maintain traction
The location of a truck accident also matters. Trucks traveling across rural parts of the state are often moving at high speeds. When they’re involved in collisions, the extreme forces of these vehicles dramatically increase the risk of a severe or fatal injury for any passenger vehicle occupants involved.
On the other hand, crashes are more likely within urban areas given the increased traffic volume on roads and highways. Although these wrecks tend to occur at lower speeds, a commercial truck is capable of inflicting severe damage even at lower speeds.
The Impact of Trucking Accidents and Dangerous Roads
Truck crashes in Texas affect more than just the people involved in them. Although the victims often bear tremendous financial costs as they recover from their injuries, society as a whole suffers as well. When a crash happens:
- Cargo and property can be damaged
- The roadway could be closed while the crash is cleaned up, increasing delays and congestion
- Drivers might find alternate routes to avoid these dangerous routes, causing traffic jams on other roads
- Some motorists might respond to truck accidents by being overly cautious, which can contribute to other traffic risks and issues
Notwithstanding these effects, the people most immediately and personally affected by a truck accident are those who are injured. Recovering compensation can be burdensome. However, a skilled attorney can handle a crash victim’s claim from start to finish, allowing them to focus on their recovery.
FAQ
How Do I Stay Safe if I Have to Drive on One of These Dangerous Highways?
If you must travel a dangerous interstate or highway for any reason, you can decrease your risk of an avoidable trucking accident by remaining alert to your surroundings. Put away all distractions and focus on the traffic around you. Obey all laws and leave plenty of space between yourself and any large trucks you encounter.
Besides the Truck Driver, Who Else Might Be Responsible for a Trucking Accident?
The trucker’s employer, the company that owns or loaded the trailer, and the municipality responsible for designing and maintaining the road may all share blame for any truck accident injuries you suffer. An in-depth investigation conducted by an experienced truck accident attorney can reveal who bears the liability for your injuries.
What Can a Lawyer Do for Me After a Truck Crash?
Trucking companies and their insurers are notorious for making lowball offers to injury victims. An experienced attorney can help you negotiate a fair settlement that provides you with adequate resources to cover your past and future medical expenses, reductions in earnings, and mental and emotional harm.
Contact Ramsey Law Group for Help After a Trucking Accident in Texas
Your window of opportunity to file an insurance claim or lawsuit and recover compensation after a trucking accident in Texas is limited.
The skilled attorneys at Ramsey Law Group are prepared to get to work right away, investigating and preparing your claim and pursuing justice for you and your loved ones. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation.