Your Future. Our Fight. — McFarlane Law
As your Austin truck accident lawyer, McFarlane Law understands that truck accidents are among the most devastating collisions on Texas roads. When an 80,000-pound commercial truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic—life-altering injuries, permanent disabilities, and tragically, deaths. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Austin or anywhere in Central Texas, our experienced Austin truck accident attorneys are ready to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. As a leading Austin personal injury law firm, we have the resources to take on the largest trucking companies.
As an experienced Austin truck accident attorney, Zach McFarlane understands the complex federal and state regulations governing the trucking industry, and we know how to investigate these cases, identify all responsible parties, and maximize your recovery.
Our Truck Accident Case Results
These results reflect our commitment to achieving maximum compensation for truck accident victims. The $12.4 million settlement represents one of the largest trucking accident recoveries in our firm history.
Why Truck Accident Cases Require Specialized Legal Expertise
Truck accident cases are fundamentally different from typical car accident claims. They involve:
- Multiple Liable Parties: The truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, maintenance providers, and vehicle manufacturers may all share responsibility
- Federal Regulations: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) imposes strict regulations on hours of service, maintenance, driver qualifications, and cargo securement
- Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): Modern trucks contain black box data, GPS records, and ELD logs that can prove negligence
- Significant Insurance Coverage: Commercial trucks carry much higher insurance policies ($750,000 to $5 million or more), meaning more compensation may be available
- Aggressive Defense Tactics: Trucking companies and their insurers deploy rapid response teams to accident scenes to protect their interests
Types of Truck Accidents We Handle in Austin
- 18-Wheeler Accidents — Large semi-trucks and tractor-trailers traveling on I-35, Highway 183, and Highway 290
- Commercial Truck Crashes — Delivery trucks, box trucks, and other commercial vehicles
- Tanker Truck Accidents — Hazardous material spills and fuel tanker explosions
- Dump Truck Accidents — Construction-related truck accidents common in Austin growing areas
- Garbage Truck Accidents — Municipal and commercial waste haulers
- FedEx, UPS and Amazon Delivery Trucks — Package delivery vehicle accidents
- Oversized Load Accidents — Wide loads and overweight trucks causing accidents
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Austin
- Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often violate hours-of-service regulations, driving while dangerously fatigued
- Distracted Driving: Cell phone use, GPS adjustments, and eating while driving
- Speeding: Pressure to meet delivery deadlines leads to excessive speeds
- Improper Loading: Unsecured or overweight cargo causing rollovers and jackknife accidents
- Inadequate Maintenance: Failed brakes, worn tires, and faulty equipment
- Impaired Driving: Drug and alcohol use among commercial drivers
- Inadequate Training: Poorly trained drivers making dangerous errors
Dangerous Trucking Routes in the Austin Area
Austin sits at the intersection of major trucking corridors, making truck accidents a constant concern:
- I-35: The main north-south artery through Texas carries massive commercial truck traffic connecting Mexico to the Midwest
- Highway 130: The toll road parallel to I-35 attracts heavy truck traffic trying to bypass Austin congestion
- Highway 183: Major commercial route through North Austin and towards the tech corridor
- Highway 290: Heavy truck traffic between Austin and Houston
- Highway 71: Connecting Austin to the Hill Country and beyond
What to Do After a Truck Accident in Austin
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if you feel fine, get checked by a medical professional—some injuries do not manifest immediately.
- Call 911: Ensure police document the accident scene. Request a copy of the accident report.
- Document Everything: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, and your injuries.
- Get Witness Information: Collect names and contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident.
- Do Not Give Recorded Statements: Politely decline to give recorded statements to insurance companies before speaking with an attorney.
- Contact McFarlane Law: Time is critical in truck accident cases. Evidence can be lost or destroyed quickly. Call us immediately for a free consultation.
Truck Accident FAQs
How much is my truck accident case worth?
The value of your case depends on the severity of your injuries, the extent of your damages, and the evidence of negligence. Our truck accident settlements and verdicts range from hundreds of thousands to over $12 million. During your free consultation, we can provide a better estimate based on the specifics of your case.
Who can be held liable in a truck accident?
Multiple parties may be liable, including the truck driver, the trucking company (for negligent hiring, training, or supervision), the cargo loading company, maintenance providers, and even the truck or parts manufacturers if defective equipment contributed to the crash. An experienced Austin truck accident lawyer will investigate all potential liable parties. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the trucking industry and sets safety standards that may have been violated.
How long do I have to file a truck accident lawsuit in Texas?
The statute of limitations for truck accident cases in Texas is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, critical evidence like black box data and driver logs can be lost or destroyed within days, so it is essential to contact an Austin truck accident lawyer immediately to preserve your case.
Contact Our Austin Truck Accident Lawyers Today
If you have been injured in a truck accident in Austin, Texas, the trucking company insurance carrier is already working to minimize their payout. You need an experienced Austin truck accident lawyer fighting for your rights. Our team also handles personal injury cases throughout Central Texas. Contact McFarlane Law today for a free consultation.
Your Future. Our Fight.
We are ready to take on the trucking companies and fight for the compensation you deserve.