A frightening accident unfolded in Nacogdoches, Texas, on Friday, April 25, 2025, when a runaway semi-truck crashed into a local food truck, injuring several people and causing significant property damage. The incident occurred as Ruby’s Mexican Restaurant’s food truck was serving customers. According to witnesses, an 18-wheeler crossed the street and barreled into the food truck without anyone behind the wheel. Patrons standing in line and employees inside the truck were caught completely off guard.
Three employees working inside the food truck were thrown around by the impact. They suffered burns, cuts, and bruises during the incident. A customer in line was also injured. Emergency responders quickly arrived, and the injured were transported to Nacogdoches Medical Center for treatment.
Questions Surrounding the Semi-Truck
One of the most troubling aspects of the crash is that the semi-truck was apparently unmanned at the time of the collision. Details about how and why the truck was left unattended remain under investigation by local authorities.
Instances involving runaway commercial vehicles raise serious concerns about compliance with trucking industry safety regulations, including requirements for securing parked vehicles, setting brakes properly, and maintaining mechanical systems that prevent rollaways.
Risks Associated with Unattended Commercial Vehicles
A runaway 18-wheeler can become a devastating hazard in seconds. Heavy trucks, when left unsecured, have the potential to cause massive property damage, serious injuries, and loss of life. Failure to properly engage parking brakes, mechanical malfunctions, or operator negligence are common factors leading to such dangerous events.
Investigators will likely examine whether the truck’s brakes were functioning properly, whether the driver took appropriate safety measures, and if there were any mechanical defects contributing to the incident.
Legal Rights for the Injured
Those injured due to commercial trucking negligence may be entitled to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages. Liability could extend not only to the individual driver but also to the trucking company responsible for maintaining safe vehicle practices and training drivers properly.
Understanding your rights after a commercial vehicle crash is critical, especially when multiple parties could be responsible for lapses in safety.
Contact Spagnoletti Law Firm
If you or someone you love has been injured due to the negligence of a commercial driver or trucking company, it’s important to have skilled legal representation. Determining fault and navigating complex insurance and liability issues requires an experienced advocate.
Call 713-804-9306 today for a free consultation. At Spagnoletti Law Firm, our personal injury lawyers are committed to helping victims of serious trucking accidents pursue the compensation they deserve. There are no fees unless we recover for you.