Smith County, Texas, is no stranger to heavy truck traffic. With major routes like Interstate 20, U.S. Highway 271, and State Highway 31 crisscrossing the region, the county is a vital corridor for freight movement in East Texas. Unfortunately, this increased volume of commercial traffic brings with it a growing risk of serious accidents involving 18-wheelers and other large trucks.
Why Smith County Faces Elevated Trucking Dangers
Several factors make Smith County particularly vulnerable to large truck crashes:
- High Freight Volume: As a transportation hub near Tyler and within reach of Dallas and Shreveport, the area sees significant big rig traffic on both interstates and local highways.
- Rural Road Conditions: Many secondary routes in Smith County are narrow, curved, or poorly lit—conditions that can make navigating a large truck more dangerous.
- Mixed Traffic: Passenger vehicles often share the road with commercial trucks, leading to increased accident potential when visibility is limited or speed differentials are high.
- Construction Zones: Ongoing infrastructure work throughout the county can create temporary hazards such as abrupt lane shifts, uneven pavement, and reduced speed enforcement.
Consequences of a Crash with an 18-Wheeler
Accidents involving 18-wheelers can be catastrophic due to the sheer mass of the vehicles. Even a relatively low-speed collision may cause:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Multiple broken bones
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Fatal injuries
Victims are often left facing prolonged medical treatment, rehabilitation, and financial uncertainty.
What Causes 18-Wheeler Accidents in East Texas?
Truck accidents in Smith County are often caused by a mix of driver error and systemic safety violations. Common causes include:
- Driver fatigue due to long hours and tight delivery schedules
- Speeding to meet unrealistic deadlines
- Distracted driving (especially phone or GPS use)
- Failure to yield or check blind spots
- Inadequate maintenance or brake failure
- Improperly secured cargo or overloaded trailers
In many cases, these accidents could have been prevented through more rigorous safety protocols or better oversight by the trucking company.
What Victims Should Know After a Trucking Accident
Injured individuals or grieving families may have legal options beyond just filing an insurance claim. Depending on the circumstances, a civil lawsuit may identify responsible parties such as:
- The truck driver
- The driver’s employer or motor carrier
- A third-party contractor or maintenance company
- The manufacturer of a defective truck component
Pursuing a claim can help victims recover damages for:
- Medical expenses and future treatment
- Lost income and reduced earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Wrongful death (in fatal cases)
Prompt investigation is essential, as trucking companies often move quickly to control the narrative after a crash. Crucial evidence—like electronic logging devices (ELDs), dashcam footage, and maintenance logs—must be preserved.
Call Spagnoletti Law Firm After a Truck Crash in Smith County
If you or someone you love has been involved in a serious accident with an 18-wheeler in Smith County, the legal team at Spagnoletti Law Firm is here to help. We are committed to holding negligent drivers, companies, and other responsible parties accountable under Texas law.
To speak with a truck accident attorney and explore your legal options, call 713-804-9306 today for a free, confidential consultation. Don’t face the aftermath of a serious truck crash alone—let us help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.