Serious Large Truck Accidents on I-35 in Temple: What Victims Need to Know After a Crash 

Interstate 35 (I-35) is one of Texas’s busiest and most heavily traveled highways, running right through Temple and connecting major cities like Austin, Waco, Dallas, and San Antonio. This vital artery sees a mix of commuter traffic, commercial trucks, and freight haulers every day, making it a hotspot for serious accidents, especially involving large trucks. For victims caught in wrecks with large vehicles, understanding what to do afterwards and how to get compensation is vital. At Scanes Yelverton Talbert we are here to aid victims following these accidents. 

 

Why Does I-35 See So Many Truck Accidents? 

I-35’s high accident rate in the Temple area stems from several factors including: 

 

• Heavy Traffic Volume: As a major north-south route, I-35 experiences intense congestion, especially during peak hours, weekends, and holiday seasons. With thousands of vehicles and hundreds of large trucks sharing the road, the risk of collisions rises significantly. 
• Mix of Vehicle Types: Passenger cars and massive commercial trucks must coexist on the same lanes. The size difference alone creates dangerous situations, as trucks require longer stopping distances and have large blind spots that make it harder for drivers to see smaller vehicles. 
• Commercial Freight Hub: Temple’s proximity to major logistics centers, distribution warehouses, and railroads means there is a constant flow of trucks entering and exiting the highway, sometimes making sudden lane changes or slowing unexpectedly. 
• Road Design and Construction Zones: Parts of I-35 around Temple undergo frequent maintenance and expansion projects. Construction zones often result in narrowed lanes, confusing detours, and abrupt traffic pattern changes, which can lead to accidents, especially since large vehicles need longer reaction times. 
• Driver Fatigue and Negligence: Truck drivers often face tight schedules and long hours, increasing the risk of fatigue-related crashes. Additionally, speeding, distracted driving, and improper load securing are common issues that contribute to wrecks. 

 

The Unique Dangers of Large Truck Accidents 

Collisions involving large trucks are often far more severe than typical car accidents due to the sheer size and weight difference. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making impact forces catastrophic for occupants of smaller vehicles. Common injuries from these crashes include: 

 

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) 
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis 
• Severe fractures and dislocations 
• Internal organ damage 
• Burns and road rash 
• Fatalities 

 

Even at low speeds, trucks can cause rollovers, jackknife accidents, or crush smaller vehicles, leading to devastating outcomes. 

 

What You Need to Know After a Truck Accident on I-35 

If you’ve been involved in a large truck accident on I-35 near Temple, we understand how overwhelming and scary that can be. At Scanes Yelverton Talbert, we want you to know the most important steps to protect yourself and your rights: 

 

1. Seek Medical Attention Right Away: Even if you feel okay right after the accident, it’s essential to see a medical professional promptly. Injuries like internal bleeding or a concussion can develop gradually and may not be immediately obvious, but early diagnosis can make all the difference in your recovery. It is also important to document these injuries to support your case. 
2. Report the Accident to Law Enforcement: Having an official report helps preserve important details like driver information, truck logs, and witness statements. This evidence that can be vital to your case. 
3. Preserve Any Evidence You Can: If you’re able, take photos of the vehicles, skid marks, road conditions, and your injuries. Keep detailed records of medical treatments and any communication with insurance companies. 
4. Don’t Talk to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Advice: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by getting you to admit fault or accept a quick settlement. Before you say anything, talk with our team. We can walk you through what to avoid discussing so you don’t potentially harm you compensation. 

 

At SYT, we’re here to guide you through every step after a truck accident, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies. 

 

Potential Damages in Truck Accident Claims 

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, you may be entitled to recover a range of damages to help you move forward. These can include compensation for past and future medical bills, lost wages or reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, property damage such as vehicle repairs or replacement, and rehabilitation or therapy costs. In tragic cases involving the loss of a loved one, wrongful death damages may also be pursued. At Scanes Yelverton Talbert, we work closely with medical experts, financial professionals, and accident investigators to build a strong case that fully captures the impact of your injuries and losses so you receive the maximum compensation you deserve. 

Know Your Rights and Don’t Wait to Act

If you or a loved one has been injured in a large truck accident on I-35 in Temple, it’s critical to act quickly. In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. Waiting too long could mean losing your right to seek the compensation you need for medical care, lost income, and other damages.

At Scanes Yelverton Talbert, we understand how devastating and confusing the aftermath of a serious truck accident can be. That’s why we offer a free, no-obligation case review to help you understand your legal options and take the next step with confidence. Don’t wait, fill out the online form to get started today.