Truck Accidents

Austin Truck Accident Attorneys

Millions Recovered for Victims of Big Rig & 18-Wheeler Collisions

If you were seriously injured or your loved one was killed in a crash involving an 18-wheeler, contact our Austin truck accident attorneys for a free and confidential consultation.

At Briggle & Polan, PLLC, we understand how to navigate these types of complex personal injury claims; our team consists of real trial lawyers who are not afraid to aggressively represent you, both in and out of the courtroom. As a result, we have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of our clients.

Let our truck accident lawyers in Austin fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact us for legal assistance with truck accident claims involving:


Call us at (512) 400-3278 or submit an online contact form for a FREE consultation. If your injuries prevent you from coming to our office, we can come to you.


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Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Texas

In the trucking industry, time equals money.

The more work completed or the more goods delivered in the shortest time, the bigger the profits. Companies often expect their drivers to adhere to tight schedules. This may mean that they need to drive faster and for longer hours than the law allows or than is safe, increasing the potential for an accident to occur.

Some of the most common types of truck accidents include:

  • Jackknife Accidents: A jackknife accident occurs when a truck's trailer swings out to the side, forming an L or V shape with the cab. This often happens when the trailer loses traction, and the driver loses control, leading to the trailer folding against the cab.
  • Head-on Collisions: This occurs when the front of a truck collides with the front of another vehicle coming from the opposite direction. Factors may include driver fatigue, distraction, or misjudgment during overtaking.
  • Rear-end Crashes: A truck collides with the vehicle in front of it. Tailgating, distracted driving, or sudden stops by the lead vehicle are common causes.
  • Underride Accidents: When a smaller vehicle gets trapped underneath the rear or side of a truck's trailer. Poor visibility, sudden stops, or inadequate underride guards on the truck.
  • Side Collisions/T-Bone Accidents: A truck collides with the side of another vehicle, forming a T shape. Failure to yield, running red lights, or crossing intersections without caution.
  • Sideswipe Accidents: The side of a truck makes contact with the side of another vehicle traveling parallel. Lane drifting, failure to check blind spots, or sudden lane changes.
  • Truck Rollovers: The truck tips over onto its side or roof. Excessive speed, sharp turns, unsecured cargo, or adverse weather conditions can contribute to rollovers.
  • Hazmat Spills and Fires: Accidents involving trucks carrying hazardous materials may result in spills or fires. Collisions, equipment failure, or improper handling of hazardous materials.

When accidents occur, more often than not it is because of either some error on the part of the truck driver or negligence on the part of the trucking company, maintenance and repair contractor, or inspector.

Less often, a defect in the truck or one of its components, attributable to a manufacturer, may be the cause; and, in some instances, a road hazard caused by another party –for example, the government agency or their contractor responsible for the maintenance of the road—may be to blame.

Large trucks, because of their size, are more prone to serious accidents than passenger cars or other smaller vehicles. Some of the reasons are that they are difficult to maneuver, they require a large area to turn, they have larger blind spots, and they take a longer time to stop once the brakes are applied.

Common causes of truck accidents that can be attributed to negligence include:

  • Improper training of drivers
  • Failing to properly balance the load
  • Carrying a load that exceeds weight limits for the truck
  • Neglecting to secure the truck’s cargo properly
  • Failing to properly attach the trailer to the tractor
  • Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
  • Use of alcohol or of drugs, whether illegal, prescription, or over-the-counter
  • Driving too many hours without rest (in violation of federal law)
  • Distracted driving, including texting and other cell phone use
  • Missing required maintenance and inspections
  • Backing up, passing, or changing lanes and without checking blind spots
  • Ignoring traffic regulations, signage, and signals

Injuries Commonly Caused by Truck Wrecks

Due to the nature of these accidents, the injuries suffered in truck crashes tend to be severe or even fatal.

Truck accident victims offer suffer from:

Potential Defendants in Your Truck Accident Case

An important element of your truck accident case is identifying who is at fault for your injuries and subsequent damages. In some cases, multiple liable parties may be involved.

Liability for a commercial truck accident could fall on:

  • Truck Driver: The driver of the truck can be held liable if their negligence or actions contributed to the accident. This includes violations of traffic laws, driving under the influence, distracted driving, or driver fatigue.
  • Driver’s Employer: If the truck driver is an employee, the employer may be held liable for the actions of their employee under the legal doctrine of "respondeat superior," which holds employers responsible for the actions of their employees during the course of employment.
  • Trucking Company: The trucking company may be held directly liable if their policies, practices, or negligence contributed to the accident. This could include issues related to hiring, training, maintenance, or scheduling that played a role in the crash.
  • Manufacturer of the Truck: If the accident is caused by a defect in the truck or one of its components, the manufacturer may be held liable for producing a defective product. This falls under product liability laws.
  • Third-Party Contractors: If the trucking company hired third-party contractors for services such as maintenance, and their negligence or faulty work contributed to the accident, those contractors might be held liable.
  • Parties Involved with Truck Maintenance: This includes individuals or companies responsible for maintaining the truck. If poor maintenance, inadequate repairs, or failure to address known issues led to the accident, these parties could be held responsible.
  • Cargo Loaders and Shippers: The entities responsible for loading and securing the cargo on the truck may be liable if improper loading or securing contributed to the accident. This is particularly important in cases where shifting cargo causes the truck to become unstable.
  • Other Potentially Liable Parties: Depending on the specifics of the case, other entities such as leasing companies, those responsible for road maintenance, or government agencies overseeing transportation regulations may also be held liable in certain situations.

There are often many different business relationships within a trucking company. The driver may work directly for the company that they are providing the delivery for. In other cases, the driver may be an independent contractor who hauls the goods for the company that directly owns the cargo.

Texas truck accident law specifically notes that trucking companies may be responsible for any harm or injuries caused by the drivers they employ. This liability is legally known as “respondeat superior.”

Several legal elements must be properly established for this doctrine to apply and only an attorney can tell you whether the trucking company, or any other entity, could be a potential defendant in your case.

When you work with our Austin truck wreck attorneys, we can help you determine liability for any negligent actions that led to the crash and pursue all available avenues for compensation.

Damages You May Be Entitled to Recover

If you are able to prove negligence on the part of the truck driver, trucking company, and/or another third party, you may be entitled to compensation for your economic and non-economic losses.

  • Economic damages are those that you can prove with bills and receipts: medical expenses, lost wages, household help for tasks you are no longer able to perform, the cost of prescription medication and assistive medical devices, and any other expenses that you would not have had were it not for the accident.
  • Non-economic damages are harder to quantify because they are losses on which it is impossible to place a dollar value: pain, suffering, disfigurement, disability, loss of enjoyment of your life, loss of consortium, and even inconvenience. These vary from person to person and, in part, reflect what you most enjoyed about life before the accident that you can no longer do.

In addition, in a very limited number of cases where the defendant has displayed willful and blatant disregard for the life or well-being of an accident victim, a jury may award exemplary damages (called punitive damages in other jurisdictions), designed not to compensate the victim but to punish the defendant.

For example, exemplary damages might be assessed in a drunk driving accident where the defendant’s blood alcohol content was exceptionally high when the accident occurred.

Damages in Fatal Truck Accident Cases

In the case of a wrongful death of a close family member, certain close relatives—usually a spouse, parent, or child—may recover money for loss of the care, support, and guidance the deceased would have provided; mental anguish and emotional suffering; loss of love and companionship, and loss of inheritance that the person would have received had the deceased lived out his or her full life expectancy.

Insurance Coverage Required of Truckers by Law

Commercial trucks are required by law to carry substantial liability insurance policies. Your attorney will determine the available coverage for the vehicle that hit you and for any third parties who might share in the liability for your accident.

If you have sustained a serious injury or a member of your family has been killed by a commercial truck, there is usually plenty of insurance coverage to pay you the compensation you deserve.

However, that doesn’t mean it will be easy to settle your claim fairly.

The insurance companies for all parties will vigorously oppose your claim, and in many cases, defendants will attempt to place the fault for the accident on the victim(s). When third parties are involved, there may be litigation among the parties, each trying to deny responsibility and lay the blame on the other.

At Briggle & Polan, we are committed to obtaining a recovery that fully reflects the value of your damages. When you hire us, we will handle all negotiations with the insurers, working tirelessly to protect your rights and making certain that every party who shared in the responsibility for your damages pays.

Our Austin truck crash attorneys at Briggle & Polan have an impressive record of success in holding negligent truckers, trucking companies, and third parties accountable and bringing in settlements and verdicts that make a significant difference in the lives of our injured and bereaved clients.

Why You Should Bring an Attorney on Board from the Start

Trucking companies often have mitigation teams on call to rush to the scene of an accident and look for ways in which to deny responsibility and avoid paying large claims. You need your own advocate to counter these efforts and fight on your behalf against these wealthy corporations and their insurers.

The earlier you bring a truck accident lawyer from Briggle & Polan on board, the sooner we will be able to launch our own investigation into the crash and protect your right to a recovery. We know the law, and we understand how both state and federal regulations affect each accident case.

How Briggle & Polan Can Help

It is important to begin investigating immediately after a truck crash if possible.

When you hire our Austin truck accident attorneys, we will:

  • Examine the truck’s black box;
  • Check the driver’s record for prior accidents and substance abuse;
  • Investigate the trucking company’s training and loading procedures;
  • Examine maintenance procedures and inspection reports; and
  • Call upon accident reconstruction experts to study the accident scene and analyze road conditions, skid marks, and other evidence.

We will also interview witnesses and look for possible third-parties who may have contributed to the accident. Over time, evidence may disappear and witnesses may move away or forget relevant details. It is essential to begin assembling the facts and building a case while the evidence is still fresh.

We Are Not Afraid to Take Your Case to Trial

In many cases, we can negotiate a settlement without your ever having to go to court.

However, it is important to know that we are trained, experienced, and seasoned trial lawyers who are prepared to present a persuasive case to a jury when necessary.

Some lawyers are uncomfortable in the courtroom, but when a trial is needed to get you the money you deserve, our attorneys at Briggle & Polan won't hesitate to fight it out in court.

Call Us Now for a Free Consultation

For vigorous, skilled, and aggressive legal representation in your Texas truck accident case, don’t delay; call our Austin truck accident lawyers at Briggle & Polan as soon as you can.

Here are some of the benefits of choosing our firm:

  • Expertise in Truck Accident Laws: We specialize in truck accident cases and have a deep understanding of the specific laws and regulations governing the trucking industry in Texas. This expertise allows us to build strong cases on behalf of our clients.
  • Investigation and Evidence Gathering: We have the resources and experience to conduct thorough investigations into the circumstances of the accident. This includes gathering evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage to build a compelling case.
  • Determining Liability: Identifying all liable parties is crucial in truck accident cases. We have the knowledge to assess the various factors involved, such as driver negligence, trucking company policies, and potential manufacturing defects, to determine who may be held responsible.
  • Dealing with Insurance Companies: Our legal team is well-versed in negotiating with insurance companies. We can handle communications on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other losses.
  • Calculating Damages: Estimating the full extent of your damages is complex. We work diligently to calculate both current and future damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other applicable costs to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
  • Litigation Experience: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, our firm is prepared to take your case to court. With a strong litigation team, we have the skills and experience to present a compelling case in court, fighting for your rights before a judge and jury.
  • Client Advocacy: Our commitment is to you, the client. We advocate for your best interests throughout the legal process, keeping you informed and involved at every stage. Your well-being is our top priority, and we work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
  • Peace of Mind: Dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming. By hiring Briggle & Polan, PLLC, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities. Our goal is to provide you with peace of mind and the confidence that your case is in capable hands.

There is never a charge for your initial consultation—even if you don’t hire us. And you’ll never have any out-of-pocket expenses. We do not charge you upfront for the time or financial outlay we put into your case. If for any reason you do not receive a monetary award, you will owe us absolutely nothing.

You have much to gain and nothing to lose by giving us call. But don’t wait too long or you could lose your right to recover compensation. Texas limits the amount of time you have to file your claim. Call us now so we can begin the process of preparing a rock-solid case for you. Justice is your right.


Pick up the phone and call us at (512) 400-3278 or fill out an online contact form to get started with a free consultation. Se habla español.


Hear From Our Clients

  • If you are looking for excellent and honest attorneys, call them.

    “If you are looking for excellent and honest attorneys, call them. You will not be disappointed.”

    - Paige
  • It feels good to have a team on your side that knows what they’re doing and is willing to help you against big faceless insurance companies that don’t want to pay up what they owe.

    “I found myself in a bad situation dealing with insurance adjusters that had no intention of seeing me compensated for damages their client inflicted. Parker and Hayden were positive, energetic, and ...”

    - Matt
  • I very much appreciate all their hard work and will be happy to refer to them should the need come up for friends.

    “This is the one company that would take on my case after being rejected by two other law firms. After pursuing the insurance company, they were able to get the full amount.”

    - Sandi
  • They got me the help I? needed within a few days of hiring them.

    “My settlement was awesome and I got everything I needed to get back on my feet”

    - Karina
  • These guys really helped me when no one else would.

    “They really fought for me and their paralegals were the best. They were constantly in communication with me and I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a lawyer.”

    - Lauren
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We've Recovered Millions

  • $1.8 Million Delivery Truck Accident

    Our client was t-boned by a large package delivery truck that was traveling in excess of 70 mph. He sustained a severe neck injury that required spinal surgery. *Net to client was $759,182.96.

  • $350 Thousand Company Truck Collision

    Our client was struck by a company truck that ran a red light at a busy intersection. *Net to client was $166,651.36.

  • $400 Thousand Company Truck Wreck

    Our client was traveling down a residential street when a company truck backed out of a driveway into the side of her vehicle. *Net to client was $110,000.

  • $100 Thousand DWI Wreck Resolved

    Our client was struck by a drunk driver in Round Rock, Texas. *Net to client was $51,113.04.

  • $115 Thousand Distracted Driver Caused Collision

    A distracted driver failed to yield the right of way to our client, causing a collision. *Net to client was $25,035.44.

  • $132 Thousand Distracted Driver

    Our client was the passenger in a vehicle struck by a distracted motorist who failed to yield the right of way at an intersection. *Net to client was $33,250.59.

  • $112.5 Thousand Truck Crash Into Building

    A company driver lost control of his vehicle and smashed into a convenience store, injuring our client in the process. *Net to client was $30,259.56.

  • $82 Thousand T-Bone Collision

    Our client had to be airlifted to the hospital as a result of a t-bone collision. *Net proceeds to client were $23,914.57.

  • $85 Thousand T-Bone Collision Resolved

    Our client was t-boned by a distracted driver who ran a stop sign and required surgery for injuries sustained. *Attorney fees and expenses totaled $30,267.51.

  • $225 Thousand Collision With A Distracted Driver Operating An 18-Wheeler

    Our client severely injured her back in the wreck and the driver did not have the required commercial driver's license needed to operate the truck. *Net proceeds to client were $89,737.54.

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Award-Winning Legal Team Experienced Trial Attorneys That Will Fight For You In Court