Autonomous semitruck technology has been hailed as revolutionary by some. However, autonomous technology is new and still evolving, and it still poses very real risks. Because semitrucks are so much heavier than passenger cars, these safety concerns are amplified when self-driving technology is used by trucking companies.
If you’re a driver in Texas, here’s what you need to know about the autonomous semitrucks currently on the road.
Autonomous Semitruck Technology on Texas Highways
Over the past several years, Texas highways have been a proving ground for autonomous semitrucks. There are tech companies that currently use driverless semitrucks on I-45 between Dallas and Houston and on a longer route between Fort Worth and El Paso.
Unlike many states, Texas does not require a human operator to be present in an autonomous vehicle, so the autonomous semitrucks on Texas roads are the first of their kind.
How Self-Driving Trucks Operate
Self-driving trucks rely on a complex web of technologies, including these:
- Cameras: Capture the roadway and other surroundings
- Radar: Detects objects and determines distance through sound waves
- LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging): Uses light to detect objects and create a 3D map of surroundings
- GPS: Determines location and navigates routes
- AI/Machine Learning: Interprets sensor data and makes decisions on the road
Although the term “autonomous vehicle” is often applied to any vehicle with self-driving capabilities, there are several levels of automation. Currently, autonomous semitrucks are at Level 4:
Level 0
This level includes traditional vehicles with no automation whatsoever.
Level 1
Level 1 vehicles assist drivers with either steering or speed control, but not both.
Level 2
These vehicles are capable of handling steering and speed control, but a human driver must be present and ready to intervene at all times.
Level 3
Vehicles can completely drive themselves in limited conditions (like on highways in good weather). A human driver must be prepared to take control at all times.
Level 4
The vehicle can operate completely independently within a specific, geofenced area.
Level 5
The vehicle can independently operate in any conditions. Currently, no Level 5 vehicles are commercially available.
Texas Laws and Regulations Governing Autonomous Commercial Vehicles
In September of 2025, Texas Senate Bill 2807 went into effect. It applies to all autonomous vehicles. These are some of its main provisions:
- Commercial operators must receive a permit from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to operate
- Before deploying autonomous vehicles, operators must develop a safety plan that includes a protocol for interacting with first responders
- Anyone who operates an autonomous commercial vehicle without a permit is guilty of a criminal offense
Although autonomous semitrucks and other autonomous vehicles can be legally operated with no human driver, that could change in the near future. Texas is currently considering House Bill 4402. The bill would require any autonomous commercial vehicle to have a licensed human operator present.
Autonomous Truck Testing: Risks and Safety Concerns
As autonomous trucks become increasingly common, trucking companies and other drivers must be mindful of potential risks:
- Autonomous trucks may be unable to interpret unclear road signs or police hand signals
- Software systems may be vulnerable to cyberattacks
- Malfunctioning sensors or software can cause accidents
- Trucks may have trouble navigating during bad weather or in other suboptimal conditions
Autonomous trucks can still cause accidents with human operators present. A tragic example of this is a 2018 accident involving a self-driving test vehicle for Uber. The human driver wasn’t paying attention, and the car struck and killed a pedestrian as a result.
Who Is Liable for an Autonomous Truck Accident?
Accidents involving autonomous semitrucks and other autonomous vehicles raise complex questions of liability. In an autonomous truck accident, several parties may be liable:
The Trucking Company
Trucking companies that employ human drivers are responsible for vetting those drivers. Likewise, if a trucking company uses autonomous semitrucks, it must verify that the technology doesn’t put other drivers at risk.
The Truck Manufacturer
Manufacturers of autonomous vehicles are responsible for testing their technology systems for safety before offering them to the public.
Software Developers
Autonomous semitrucks are controlled by complex software, and an error or oversight in the system could lead to an accident.
Third-Party Maintenance Companies
If a faulty repair or maintenance error causes a human-driven semitruck to crash, the maintenance company could be held responsible. The same holds true for companies that maintain autonomous vehicles.
Cargo Companies
If an unbalanced or poorly secured load contributes to a jackknife accident or other crash, the cargo company could be partially or fully liable.
The Role of a Personal Injury Attorney in Autonomous Truck Cases
Compared to typical truck accidents, accidents with autonomous semitrucks are uniquely complex. Our semitruck accident lawyers understand how to investigate crashes to determine who was liable. From there, we can gather and preserve evidence to build your case.
Whether the at-fault party is willing to settle or your case becomes a contentious court battle, we’re ready and willing to fight for justice on your behalf.
FAQ
Why Did Autonomous Truck Companies Choose Texas to Test Their Trucks?
Texas generally has favorable weather conditions and a strong freight infrastructure. Autonomous vehicle regulations also aren’t as strict as those in other states.
How Long Do You Have to File a Lawsuit After an Autonomous Truck Accident?
In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.
What Damages Can You Recover After an Autonomous Semitruck Accident?
You may be compensated for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Have You Been Hurt in an Autonomous Truck Accident?
Recovering compensation after autonomous truck accidents can be challenging. At Ramsey Law Group, we stay abreast of current regulations and case law to help get victims the justice they deserve. If you’ve been injured, our semitruck accident attorneys are ready to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.