Accidents involving 18-wheelers and large commercial trucks are unlike ordinary car crashes in almost every way. The sheer size and weight of these vehicles mean that when something goes wrong, the consequences are often catastrophic. In Killeen and throughout Central Texas, truck accidents frequently result in severe injuries, permanent disabilities, and devastating losses for families. 

 

At Scanes Yelverton Talbert, LLP (SYT), we understand how overwhelming life can feel after a serious trucking accident. Our team has extensive experience handling complex, high-stakes personal injury and wrongful death cases. We know these accidents are traumatic, and we are committed to helping injured individuals and families pursue justice, accountability, and the financial recovery they need to move forward. 

 

Why Truck Accidents Are So Much More Dangerous Than Car Accidents 

A standard passenger vehicle typically weighs between 3,000 and 4,000 pounds. An 18-wheeler, when fully loaded, can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. That extreme difference in size and force is what makes truck accidents so destructive. When a large commercial truck collides with a car, SUV, or motorcycle, the occupants of the smaller vehicle often suffer the most serious harm. The impact of a truck crash can crush vehicles, cause multi-car pileups, and lead to injuries that change lives forever. These accidents often involve higher medical costs, longer recovery periods, and greater emotional and financial strain than typical auto accidents. At SYT, we recognize the gravity of these cases and approach each one with the seriousness, preparation, and compassion it deserves. 

 

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler and Large Truck Accidents in Killeen 

Large truck accidents are rarely the result of a single, simple mistake. More often, they stem from a combination of negligence, regulatory violations, and unsafe practices. Some of the most common causes of trucking accidents in the Killeen area include driver fatigue, distracted driving, speeding, improper lane changes, and driving under the influence. Mechanical failures also play a significant role. Brake failures, tire blowouts, and poorly maintained equipment can turn a massive truck into an uncontrollable hazard. In other cases, accidents occur because cargo was improperly loaded or secured, causing the truck to jackknife or roll over. 

 

Federal trucking regulations exist for a reason. Commercial drivers and trucking companies are required to follow strict rules designed to keep the public safe. These regulations limit the number of hours a truck driver can operate a vehicle without rest to reduce fatigue, require routine inspections and maintenance of brakes, tires, and other critical systems, and mandate proper training and licensing for commercial drivers. Trucking companies must also follow safety rules governing how cargo is loaded and secured, how driver logs are maintained, and how accidents and violations are reported. When these regulations are ignored, such as when a driver is pushed to stay on the road too long, a company skips maintenance to save money, or safety records are falsified, the risk to everyone on the road increases dramatically. At SYT, we know how to identify these violations and use them to hold negligent drivers and trucking companies accountable. 

 

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident Case? 

One of the key differences between truck accident cases and standard car accident claims is the number of potentially responsible parties. Liability may rest with the truck driver, the trucking company, a maintenance provider, a cargo-loading company, or even a manufacturer of defective parts. In some cases, multiple parties share responsibility. 

 

Negligence plays a central role in these cases. Negligence occurs when someone fails to act with reasonable care, and that failure causes harm. In trucking cases, negligence might involve a driver exceeding federally allowed driving hours, a company failing to maintain its fleet, or a business cutting corners on safety to increase profits. 

 

How Our Team Investigates Trucking Accidents 

At SYT, we know how to identify all responsible parties and hold them accountable. We step in quickly to preserve critical evidence before it is lost or destroyed, recognizing that trucking companies and insurers often act quickly to protect their interests after a crash. 

 

Our investigation is thorough and trial-focused. We analyze accident reports, review driver logs and maintenance records, examine vehicle and black box data, evaluate federal compliance histories, and consult with accident reconstruction experts when needed. By preparing every case as if it will go to court, we build claims that withstand aggressive corporate defense strategies and place meaningful pressure on insurers to take our clients’ cases seriously. 

 

Common Injuries Sustained in Large Truck Accidents 

The injuries caused by 18-wheeler and large truck accidents are often catastrophic, life-altering, and in many cases, permanent. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are common, and they can affect memory, cognitive function, personality, and the ability to perform everyday tasks. These changes are often long-lasting and require ongoing medical care, therapy, and support for daily life. 

 

Spinal cord injuries are another devastating consequence. They can result in partial or complete paralysis, forcing victims to rely on adaptive equipment and sometimes lifelong assistance for basic activities. These injuries often alter careers, independence, and long-term quality of life. 

 

Broken bones, crush injuries, internal organ damage, and severe burns are also frequent in large truck accidents. Even when treated promptly, these injuries can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and permanent physical impairment. Many victims require multiple surgeries, extended hospital stays, physical therapy, and continuous medical monitoring. 

 

Injuries from truck accidents often extend far beyond the immediate physical damage. Victims may experience emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress from the accident and its aftermath. The ability to work, care for family, and participate in normal daily activities can be dramatically affected, sometimes permanently. 

 

We take the time to understand how these injuries impact every aspect of a client’s life, not just physically, but emotionally, financially, and socially. That understanding guides how we pursue compensation and allows us to advocate effectively for lifelong care, medical costs, lost income, and the full extent of damages our clients deserve. 

 

When a Truck Accident Takes a Loved One

Losing a loved one in a trucking accident is a tragedy no family should ever have to endure. The grief, shock, and sense of loss can be overwhelming, especially when the accident was preventable. At SYT, we offer our deepest condolences to families facing this kind of loss. 

 

Wrongful death cases are deeply personal. They are not just legal matters; they are about honoring a life, seeking accountability, and protecting a family’s future. Our team approaches these cases with compassion, respect, and unwavering dedication. We work to hold negligent parties responsible while handling every aspect of the legal process so families can focus on healing. 

 

We understand that no amount of compensation can replace a loved one. However, a wrongful death claim can help provide financial stability, cover funeral expenses, address lost income, and acknowledge the profound impact of the loss. We are here to stand beside families during one of the most difficult times of their lives. 

 

Compensation Available After a Trucking Accident

Truck accident claims often involve substantial damages due to the severity of injuries and long-term consequences. Compensation may include medical expenses, future treatment costs, lost income, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and long-term care needs. 

 

In catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases, compensation may also address permanent disability, loss of companionship, and the costs of adapting to life after a serious injury. At SYT, we work with medical professionals, vocational experts, and financial specialists to fully understand the scope of our clients’ losses. 

 

What sets our team apart is our refusal to accept quick, undervalued settlements. We are trial lawyers at heart, and we prepare each case accordingly. That preparation often results in stronger settlements, but we are always ready to take a case to trial when justice demands it. 

 

Statute of Limitations for Truck Accident Claims in Killeen

In Texas, the statute of limitations for most personal injury and wrongful death claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, this timeframe can vary depending on the circumstances. Cases involving government entities, public roadways, or certain defendants may have shorter deadlines and additional notice requirements. 

 

Because trucking cases are complex and evidence can be lost quickly, the best practice is to reach out to SYT as soon as possible. Early involvement allows our team to protect your rights, meet all legal deadlines, and begin building a strong case from the start. 

 

Start Your Free Case Review Today

Truck accident cases demand experience, resources, and the willingness to go toe-to-toe with powerful companies and insurers. At SYT, we bring all of that to the table. Our team conducts detailed investigations, builds trial-ready cases, and advocates relentlessly for our clients. We pursue fair settlements when possible, but we never hesitate to take a case to court if that is what it takes to achieve justice. Insurance companies know we are serious because we prepare every case as if a jury will ultimately decide it. Just as importantly, we never lose sight of the human side of these cases. We take the time to listen, understand, and support our clients through every stage of the process. No two accidents are the same, and no two clients are treated the same. 

 

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler or large truck accident in Killeen, you do not have to face this alone. At Scanes Yelverton Talbert, LLP, we offer free case reviews so you can get answers, understand your options, and make informed decisions about your future. 

 

By completing our online case review form, you give our team the opportunity to learn more about your situation, explain how the law applies to your case, and outline a path forward. There is no obligation, just an opportunity to gain clarity and support during a difficult time. Reach out today and let us help you take the next step toward justice and recovery.