What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in the Houston Area
Getting into an accident with an 18-wheeler can be one of the most terrifying and life-altering experiences anyone can face. These massive vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and often cause devastating injuries or fatalities when they collide with smaller passenger vehicles. If you or someone you love has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Houston or anywhere in Texas, what you do in the minutes, hours, and days that follow could significantly affect your recovery—both physically and legally.
This guide walks you through exactly what to do after a semi-truck crash, step by step, so you can protect your rights and put yourself in the best possible position to pursue full compensation for your injuries and losses.
Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are So Serious
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand why these accidents are so complex. Unlike a typical fender bender, 18-wheeler accidents often involve multiple parties: the truck driver, the trucking company, a freight shipper, vehicle maintenance providers, and commercial insurers. The injuries are usually severe, and the legal process requires specialized knowledge and aggressive advocacy.
“When you're up against a trucking company, you’re often up against a team of lawyers whose job is to limit what you receive. You need someone on your side who knows how to fight back.”
Step 1: Get to Safety and Call 911
Your safety is priority number one. If you are able, move to a safe location away from the flow of traffic. Call 911 immediately to report the accident. Request both medical assistance and police presence. If you’re injured, do not refuse medical attention—adrenaline can mask serious internal injuries.
The police report will be a crucial piece of evidence for your personal injury claim. Make sure to provide your account to the responding officers, and ask how you can get a copy of the report once it’s filed.
Step 2: Document the Scene
If you're physically able and it’s safe to do so, start collecting evidence at the scene:
Take photos and videos of all vehicles involved, road conditions, skid marks, debris, and any visible injuries.
Get the name, license number, employer, and insurance information of the truck driver.
Collect contact information from witnesses.
Note the truck’s DOT number, which is usually displayed on the side of the truck.
The more evidence you preserve, the better foundation your attorney will have to build a strong case.
Step 3: Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel seriously injured at the moment, it’s critical to be evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible. Truck crashes often result in:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Spinal cord damage
Broken bones
Internal bleeding
PTSD and other psychological trauma
Prompt diagnosis creates a medical record that links your injuries directly to the accident—an essential component for any personal injury claim.
Step 4: Do Not Speak to the Trucking Company or Their Insurance Adjusters
You may receive a call within days—or even hours—after the crash from the trucking company or their insurance provider. They might sound helpful or concerned, but remember: they are not on your side.
Never give a recorded statement or accept a quick settlement offer without first consulting an experienced personal injury lawyer.
“The insurance company is trained to protect their bottom line. You deserve someone who is focused on protecting you.”
Step 5: Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer in Houston
Truck accident cases are significantly more complicated than regular car crashes. There are often multiple layers of liability, federal and state trucking regulations, and black box data that need to be preserved.
Hiring an experienced Houston-based personal injury attorney like Amy Dunn can make a dramatic difference in the outcome of your case. Your lawyer will:
Investigate the accident thoroughly
Identify all potentially liable parties
Preserve critical evidence before it disappears
Work with accident reconstruction experts and medical professionals
Negotiate aggressively with insurers
Prepare your case for trial if necessary
And most importantly, allow you to focus on healing while your case is being handled with the care and urgency it deserves.
Step 6: Keep a Journal of Your Recovery
Start documenting how your injuries affect your daily life. Note the pain you experience, the tasks you can’t do, time missed from work, emotional distress, and any other disruptions. This personal record can strengthen your claim for damages related to pain and suffering, lost wages, and reduced quality of life.
Step 7: Avoid Posting on Social Media
You may feel tempted to share your experience online, but insurance companies often monitor social media for anything they can use against you. A seemingly innocent photo or comment could be twisted to suggest your injuries aren't as serious as claimed.
Stay quiet online until your case is resolved. Let your lawyer handle the public-facing communication.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Houston
Truck crashes can be caused by a wide range of negligent behaviors, including:
Driver fatigue due to hours-of-service violations
Distracted or impaired driving
Poor vehicle maintenance
Overloaded or improperly secured cargo
Speeding or reckless driving
Inadequate training or supervision
Your attorney will work to uncover whether any of these contributed to your crash and hold all responsible parties accountable.
Compensation You May Be Eligible to Pursue
Every case is different, but in general, victims of truck accidents may be eligible to pursue compensation for:
Medical expenses (current and future)
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Mental anguish
Loss of enjoyment of life
Property damage
Wrongful death damages (in fatal accidents)
While no amount of money can undo the trauma, pursuing full compensation helps secure the resources you need to rebuild your life.
Don’t Wait — Texas Has a Deadline
Under Texas law, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years from the date of the accident. Waiting too long could permanently bar you from seeking justice.
However, in trucking cases, acting fast is even more critical. Trucking companies are only required to keep key evidence—like black box data and driving logs—for a short time. An experienced lawyer can issue a spoliation letter to ensure that evidence is preserved before it disappears.
“The earlier we can begin our investigation, the better chance we have of uncovering the truth and building a solid case for you.”
Let Amy Dunn Help You Take the Next Step
If you or someone you love has been hurt in a crash involving an 18-wheeler, don’t try to face the trucking company alone. Amy Dunn is a trusted Houston personal injury lawyer with the experience, compassion, and determination to help you seek the maximum compensation you deserve.
Reach out today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let Amy fight for your future while you focus on your recovery.