Major interstates, such as I-10 and I-35, run through San Antonio, attracting numerous big rigs and posing significant hazards for motorists in the city. San Antonio’s Bexar County had over 2,600 commercial vehicle crashes in 2024 that killed 18 and seriously injured 46 victims. Semi accidents occur for many reasons, but one that is easily preventable is the operation of overloaded vehicles.
Commercial truck accidents pose a significant hazard to other motorists, as the size and weight of these vehicles can cause substantial damage, particularly when the weight exceeds legal regulations. The San Antonio commercial truck accident attorneys at Carabin Shaw understand the devastating impact these accidents have on victims and their families. We work to maximize damages for accident victims, as our client reviews demonstrate.
If you have been injured in a truck accident, our lawyers at Carabin Shaw can help. We offer our services on a contingency-fee basis, and we are available 24/7. Call us toll-free at 800-862-1260 to schedule your free case review in English or Spanish.
Laws Governing Truck Weight in San Antonio, TexasTexas law and federal regulations govern truck weights in Texas, capping weight at 80,000 pounds, based on the number of axles the vehicle has. Trucks carrying heavier loads may be eligible for a special permit; however, permits are issued based on axle limits, weight distribution, and the type of fuel used.
The Texas Department of Public Safety reinforces weight regulations in the state through weight stations and roadside inspections. When a crash occurs, a truck’s weight may play a role in determining fault and liability. Your attorney will investigate your accident to determine if illegal weight was a factor.
Dangers Associated With Illegal Truck WeightOverloaded trucks cause multiple hazards for other drivers, such as:
Stopping Distance and Brake IssuesHeavier loads require longer stopping distances and put undue stress on brake systems. Drivers are more likely to crash into a vehicle in front of them, due to their inability to react quickly enough or brake failure. Rear-end accidents can cause severe injuries, including head trauma and spinal cord damage.
Instability and Risk of RolloversOverloading creates instability by shifting the truck’s center of gravity or distributing weight unevenly, making the vehicle more challenging to control. Wind, sudden lane changes, or tight corners can cause unstable trucks to roll over, creating a hazard for everyone in the path.
Tire Wear and BlowoutsIn addition to stressing brake systems, illegal loads put additional pressure on tires. The added strain can cause tires to wear down more quickly and even lead to blowouts. A tire blowout can happen instantly, suddenly making the vehicle more difficult to control.
If you believe any of the above factors contributed to your 18 wheeler accident, contact a local lawyer as soon as possible to discuss potential legal action.
Liability in Overweight Truck Accidents in San Antonio TXIllegal loads may be the fault of a driver or the trucking company. Drivers who exceed weight limits risk fines or suspension of their commercial driver’s license. Trucking companies that allow trucks to operate with illegal loads can also face substantial penalties. If the load causes an accident, the company can also be held liable for a victim’s injuries and other losses.
Trucking Company Negligence or Gross Negligence?A trucking company that allows a truck to operate with an oversized load may be found negligent. Negligence involves a duty of care - in this case, the duty to ensure the truck’s load was within legal limits and safe. By failing to adhere to regulations, the driver or trucking company breached their duty of care, resulting in negligence per se or a breach of legal duty.
If your San Antonio 18 wheeler accident attorney can prove negligence per se, it leaves little room for rebuttal by the truck driver or trucking company. In extreme cases, a court may determine that the weight violations constitute gross negligence, which entitles the victim to punitive damages in addition to other damages.
Were You Injured by a Big Rig in Central Texas? Call Carabin Shaw to Book Your FREE Case Evaluation Today!If you are injured by a semi-truck, call our truck accident attorneys in San Antonio, Texas. Carabin Shaw will investigate your accident to determine whether an unsafe load was a factor in the crash and hold the responsible parties liable for your injuries. We are available now at 1-800-862-1260.
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