Published by J.A. Davis & Associates – San Antonio Personal Injury Lawyers

 

Deadly Truck Accidents on I-35 Through San Antonio: What Victims Should Know

Interstate 35 (I-35) runs directly through the heart of San Antonio, making it one of the most heavily trafficked commercial corridors in Texas. This vital route connects Laredo to Dallas and serves as a major artery for 18-wheelers transporting goods across the state. Unfortunately, this traffic volume also makes I-35 one of the deadliest roads in the San Antonio area for truck accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a collision with a commercial truck on I-35, understanding your rights and legal options is crucial. More information on this Website

Why I-35 Is So Dangerous for Truck Traffic

I-35 carries an overwhelming mix of local traffic, long-haul commercial vehicles, and tourists unfamiliar with the roadway. The combination of high speeds, congestion, and frequent construction zones creates a hazardous environment. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), Bexar County consistently ranks among the top counties in the state for truck-related fatalities, with I-35 being a major contributor.

Key risk factors include:

• Narrow lanes and merging zones near downtown

• Distracted or fatigued truck drivers

• Heavy stop-and-go traffic during rush hour

• Frequent lane closures and construction near Loop 410 and I-10 interchanges

Recent Accident Data: Truck Crashes on I-35

In 2023 alone, TxDOT reported over 450 large truck crashes in Bexar County, with a significant percentage occurring on I-35. Some of the deadliest crashes have happened near exits like Rittiman Road, New Braunfels Avenue, and O’Connor Road, where speed and congestion collide.

High-profile I-35 truck accidents have included:

• A multi-vehicle pileup involving a fuel tanker near Loop 1604

• A fatal rear-end collision caused by a distracted semi-truck driver

• A rollover crash near downtown due to improper lane changes

Common Injuries in I-35 Truck Accidents

Because of the size and weight of 18-wheelers, even a low-speed crash can have catastrophic consequences for occupants of smaller vehicles. Victims may suffer:

• Spinal cord injuries

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)

• Crushed limbs or amputations

• Severe burns from fuel-related fires

• Multiple broken bones or internal bleeding

These injuries often lead to long-term disability, expensive medical treatment, and lost income.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Truck Crash on I-35?

Determining fault in a commercial truck accident is complex and may involve multiple parties, including:

• The truck driver (for negligent driving, DUI, or fatigue)

• The trucking company (for poor hiring practices or failure to maintain the vehicle)

• Third-party contractors (who loaded cargo improperly)

• Manufacturers (if defective equipment played a role)

An experienced San Antonio truck accident attorney can conduct a thorough investigation and gather evidence from crash reports, black box data, and driver logs to identify all liable parties.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Crash on I-35

If you’re involved in a crash with a commercial vehicle on I-35, your first priority is safety and medical attention. Here’s what to do next:

1. Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request EMS.

2. Seek medical care even if injuries seem minor.

3. Document the scene with photos of vehicles, road conditions, and visible injuries.

4. Collect information from witnesses and the truck driver (license, insurance, company name).

5. Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters until you’ve spoken to a lawyer.

How a San Antonio Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help

Pursuing compensation after a truck accident on I-35 can be overwhelming, especially while you’re recovering. A knowledgeable attorney can:

• File claims against all liable parties

• Secure evidence before it disappears

• Negotiate aggressively with insurers

• Ensure you meet Texas’ filing deadlines (statute of limitations)

Most truck accident lawyers in San Antonio offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they win your case.

Types of Compensation You May Be Eligible For

Victims of truck accidents may be entitled to a wide range of damages, including:

• Medical bills (past and future)

• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity

• Pain and suffering

• Disfigurement or permanent disability

• Property damage

• Wrongful death benefits (for surviving family members)

The total value of your claim depends on the severity of your injuries, who is at fault, and the insurance coverage available.

Why Local Knowledge Matters

A San Antonio-based attorney will have specific experience handling I-35 truck accident cases and will be familiar with:

• Local crash hotspots and traffic patterns

• TxDOT and SAPD accident reporting

• Courts and judges in Bexar County

This local insight gives you an edge when negotiating or litigating a case involving a wreck on one of the region’s most dangerous roads.

Final Thoughts

I-35 is one of the most hazardous highways for truck traffic in Texas, and San Antonio residents are at particular risk due to the city’s role as a commercial transportation hub. If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one in a crash with a large truck on I-35, don’t wait to get legal help. A dedicated truck accident attorney can help you hold the responsible parties accountable and pursue the full compensation you deserve.

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