Best Truck Accident Lawyers in San Antonio

About Truck Accident Law in San Antonio, United States

Truck accidents in San Antonio involve commercial motor vehicles colliding with cars, motorcycles, or pedestrians in busy corridors like I-35, I-37, and I-410. In Texas, truck crash claims are generally governed by fault-based personal injury principles, with both state and federal regulations shaping liability and investigations. Understanding how federal trucking rules interact with Texas laws helps you evaluate fault, damages, and potential insurance recovery.

Texas law requires proving fault and damages to recover compensation for injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In many cases, the trucking company may rely on their insurer or a corporate defense team to limit exposure, making timely legal guidance essential. A San Antonio attorney experienced in truck crashes can coordinate evidence collection, insurance negotiations, and, if needed, a lawsuit in state or federal court.

FMCSA hours-of-service rules and the use of electronic logging devices (ELDs) are designed to curb driver fatigue in heavy truck operations. This regulatory framework significantly influences liability and fault determinations after a crash.

Source: FMCSA - Hours of Service. For a broader federal perspective, see the FMCSA enforcement and safety program pages linked here.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

• Multi-vehicle collision on I-35 near Downtown San Antonio - You suffer serious injuries and the trucking company blames a minor brake issue on your vehicle. An attorney can preserve logs, incident data, and negotiate with insurance to ensure fault is allocated fairly based on evidence such as black box data from the truck.
• Insurance denies or minimizes your medical bills after a crash - After a San Antonio crash, insurers may dispute medical causation or try to settle early for less. A lawyer can demand complete medical records, project future care needs, and pursue a fair settlement or lawsuit.
• Driver fatigue or hours-of-service violations are suspected - If the truck driver was on duty for excessive hours, this can be a key factor. An attorney can request the driver’s logs, ELD data, and company records to establish fatigue as a cause.
• Possible employer liability for a commercial driver - In Texas, employers can be vicariously liable for damages caused by employees acting within the course and scope of work. A lawyer can investigate employment practices and maintenance records to prove respondeat superior.
• Injuries with long-term care needs or permanent disability - Traumatic brain injuries, spinal injuries, or partial paralysis require complex damages analyses. An attorney can help quantify future medical costs, loss of earning capacity, and quality-of-life impacts.
• Suspected vehicle or cargo load issues - If a defective tire, braking system, or insecure cargo caused the crash, you may pursue claims against manufacturers or shippers in addition to the driver and carrier. A truck accident attorney can identify all potentially liable parties.

Local Laws Overview

Federal Hours of Service Regulations (HOS) for Commercial Drivers - The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates driving time, rest breaks, and electronic logging device usage for commercial motor vehicles, including those operating in Texas and San Antonio. Violations can influence liability and the path to compensation after a crash.

Source: FMCSA - Hours of Service

FMCSA hours-of-service rules are intended to prevent fatigue-related crashes by limiting daily and weekly driving time for commercial drivers.

Source: FMCSA - Hours of Service

Texas Statute of Limitations and Comparative Negligence Rules - In Texas, most personal injury claims, including those arising from truck crashes, must be filed within two years of the injury. Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system, meaning you can recover if your fault is 50 percent or less, but your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years.

Source: Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system; a claimant may recover only if at fault is less than 50 percent.

Source: Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Chapter 33

Texas Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Requirements - Commercial drivers operating in Texas must hold a valid CDL. Texas administers CDL requirements through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and DMV processes. This framework affects who is authorized to operate large trucks and how trucking companies maintain compliance with safety standards.

Source: Texas DPS - CDL Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical statute of limitations for a truck crash case in Texas?

Most personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the crash under Texas law. If you miss the deadline, you may lose your right to sue, so timely legal action is critical.

How do I know if I should hire a truck accident attorney in San Antonio?

Consider hiring if you face significant injuries, complex fault questions, or multiple liable parties. A qualified attorney can review evidence and negotiate with insurers before you sign anything.

What is comparative negligence and how does it affect my case in Texas?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are 50 percent or less at fault, you can still recover, but your damages are reduced by your percentage of fault.

Do I need to preserve evidence at the scene of a truck crash?

Yes. Take photos, obtain the police report, collect contact details, and avoid discussing fault with others. These records support your attorney in proving liability.

How long does a typical truck crash lawsuit take in San Antonio?

Most cases resolve within 6-18 months if settled, but serious injuries or complex liability disputes can extend to 2-3 years or more if a trial is required.

What documents should I gather for my truck crash claim?

Collect the police report, medical records, bills, wage loss documentation, insurance correspondence, and any witness statements. Your attorney will guide you on additional items like maintenance records.

Where should I file a claim for a truck crash in Texas?

Most claims are filed in the county where the crash occurred or where the defendant resides. Your attorney will determine the proper venue based on liability and defendant information.

When should I contact police after a truck crash?

Contact police immediately if there are injuries or significant property damage. A police report helps establish fault and supports your insurance and legal claims.

What is the difference between a settlement and a lawsuit in a truck crash case?

A settlement resolves the case without a trial, often through negotiation with insurers. A lawsuit is filed in court and may proceed to a trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

How much does a San Antonio truck accident attorney cost?

Most truck crash lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and legal fees are paid from a portion of the recovery if you win. Ask for a written fee agreement upfront.

Is there a difference between dealing with a large carrier and a small trucking company?

Yes. Large carriers may have more comprehensive safety programs and insurance coverage, while smaller operators could be less prepared to negotiate. An attorney can navigate both scenarios and identify all liable parties.

Additional Resources

• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) - National regulation of hours-of-service, electronic logging devices, and carrier safety programs. Source: FMCSA.
• Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) - Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Information - Official guidance on CDL requirements for Texas drivers. Source: Texas DPS - CDL.
• Texas Statutes Online - Civil Practice and Remedies Code - Statute of limitations and comparative negligence rules referenced in this guide. Source: Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003, Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Chapter 33.
• National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) - Independent investigations of large truck crashes and safety recommendations. Source: NTSB Trucking Investigations.

Next Steps

1. Seek immediate medical evaluation - If you are injured, prioritize treatment and obtain all medical records. This establishes treatment causation for your claim and helps calculate damages.
2. Preserve evidence at the scene - Take photos, collect witness contact information, and obtain the officer report if available. Preserve the vehicle, tires, cargo, and any CCTV footage if possible.
3. Consult a San Antonio truck accident attorney - Schedule a free consultation to review liability, potential insurance coverage, and your damages. Provide all available documents for review.
4. Identify liable parties - The driver, carrier, maintenance providers, cargo loader, or vehicle manufacturer could share liability. An attorney will conduct a comprehensive investigation.
5. Understand the statute of limitations - In Texas, you generally have two years to file a personal injury claim. Do not delay notifying your lawyer and initiating the process.
6. Assess settlement vs litigation strategy - Your attorney will negotiate with insurers and, if needed, file a lawsuit to pursue fair compensation. Early demand letters can influence outcome.
7. Monitor evidence preservation - Your attorney may issue preservation letters to prevent data loss from truck logs, maintenance records, and company data systems. Timely action helps strengthen your case.