A devastating collision between a tanker truck and a passenger vehicle resulted in multiple serious injuries Saturday afternoon on U.S. Highway 271 in Smith County, Texas. Emergency responders, including multiple ambulances and an air ambulance, rushed to the scene following reports of a life-threatening crash.
Details of the Highway 271 Crash
The accident occurred on July 5, 2025, just after 3:00 p.m., and involved a large tanker truck and a separate vehicle carrying three occupants. According to reports, all three individuals in the passenger vehicle sustained severe or potentially life-threatening injuries. They were quickly transported to nearby hospitals by ground and air ambulance. The tanker truck driver reportedly was not injured.
The crash shut down both lanes of Highway 271 temporarily while first responders worked to treat victims and clear the wreckage. Traffic was diverted through a nearby truck stop until the highway was later reopened. The accident highlights the risks of an 18-wheeler in Smith County, Texas.
Dangers of Tanker Truck Collisions
Crashes involving tanker trucks present unique risks due to the size, weight, and potentially hazardous cargo these vehicles carry. In addition to the violent impact caused by the mass of the truck, the contents of a tanker—whether flammable, corrosive, or pressurized—can introduce further dangers such as fire, explosion, or toxic exposure.
Common causes of serious tanker truck accidents include:
- Driver fatigue or distraction
- Improper lane changes or turns
- Failure to yield or stop
- Inadequate training for handling heavy or hazardous cargo
- Mechanical failures or brake malfunctions
When these crashes occur at highway speeds, the damage to smaller vehicles can be catastrophic.
Legal Implications in Truck vs. Passenger Vehicle Crashes
Victims of trucking accidents may have legal claims against more than just the driver. In many cases, the trucking company, maintenance providers, or the entity responsible for cargo loading may share liability. Legal action can uncover:
- Failure to follow federal trucking regulations
- Negligent hiring or training practices
- Poor vehicle maintenance records
- Hours-of-service violations
- Improper handling of dangerous or pressurized cargo
Preserving evidence quickly—such as onboard black box data, dashcam footage, and accident reconstruction—is critical to building a strong case.
Contact a Texas Truck Accident Lawyer
At Spagnoletti Law Firm, our team understands the serious consequences that follow crashes involving tanker trucks and commercial vehicles. If you or a loved one was seriously injured in a collision with a large truck, it’s important to seek legal guidance as soon as possible.
Call our truck accident attorneys at 713-804-9306 for a free and confidential consultation. We can help you understand your rights, investigate the cause of the crash, and pursue the compensation you need to recover.