When a big rig collides with a passenger vehicle, the outcome is often catastrophic. Fully loaded commercial trucks can exceed 80,000 pounds, making accidents far more severe — especially in Houston, TX, where thousands of 18-wheelers traverse interstates and city streets each day. Cars, SUVs, and pickups simply aren’t built to withstand a collision with such massive behemoths, often leading to far more serious injuries or tragic fatalities for those in the passenger vehicle.
At Zehl & Associates, our undefeated Truck Accident Lawyers have spent decades helping victims of large truck and 18-wheeler accidents secure the justice and full compensation they deserve. With Billions recovered for injured Texans, including both the #1 Largest Truck Accident Verdict and the #1 Largest Truck Accident Settlement in Texas in 2024, we don’t just win against the largest trucking companies in the world — we set records.
Understanding how the weight of a big rig impacts collisions is essential for drivers and those seeking legal recourse after a crash. Read on to learn more about large truck accidents and how our team can help secure your future..
Statistics on Big Rig Accidents in Texas
In 2024, Texas reported 20,510 large truck crashes, resulting in 712 deaths and over 11,000 injuries. Texas consistently ranks first in the nation for the number of large truck crashes, with major highways like I-10, I-35, and I-45 being particularly dangerous.
Why Big Rig Weight Matters in Truck Accidents
A typical passenger car weighs about 4,000 pounds. In contrast, a semi-truck can weigh 20 times more than a passenger vehicle, about 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. This massive weight difference means that in a collision, the force exerted by the big rig is far greater. This often results in severe injuries or fatalities for occupants of the smaller vehicle.
The Physics of Big Rig Collisions
The weight of a big rig affects several aspects of a collision, including:
- Stopping distance: Heavier trucks require much longer stopping distances. At highway speeds, a fully loaded semi can take up to 525 feet to come to a complete stop, compared to about 316 feet for a passenger car. This increased stopping distance can make it difficult for truck drivers to avoid collisions, especially in emergencies.
- Impact force: The force of a collision is related to the weight and speed of the vehicles involved. A heavier truck will exert greater force on a smaller vehicle, resulting in more severe damage and injuries.
- Control and maneuverability: The weight of a big rig also affects its maneuverability. Heavy trucks are less agile and can be more difficult to control, especially in adverse weather conditions or on curves.
Understanding the physics behind big rig collisions highlights why these accidents are so devastating. The sheer weight of a commercial truck increases stopping distances, amplifies the force of impact, and reduces the driver’s ability to maneuver in urgent situations.
Legal Implications of Big Rig Weight in Accidents
In Texas, the weight of a big rig is a critical factor in determining liability and compensation in truck accident cases. If a truck is found to be overweight, it can constitute a violation of federal and state regulations, potentially increasing the trucking company’s liability.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict weight limits for commercial trucks. Exceeding these limits can result in fines and increased liability in the event of an accident.
Additionally, overweight trucks are more likely to experience tire blowouts, brake issues, and other mechanical failures, which can contribute to accidents.
What To Do After a Big Rig Accident in Houston
If you are involved in a collision with a big rig, it is crucial to seek legal help immediately. The truck’s weight can complicate the investigation and determination of liability.
Steps you can take to protect your rights after a truck accident in Houston include:
- Call 911 to report the crash and request emergency medical services. If possible, assist anyone who needs help and find a safe place to stay until help arrives.
- Seek immediate medical treatment for your injuries. Large truck crashes often result in catastrophic injuries and permanent impairments.
- Please do not make statements or answer questions for the trucking company or its insurance provider without legal counsel.
- Gather evidence by taking photographs and, if possible, videos of the accident scene.
- Keep copies of all documents, correspondence, and communications related to the accident, your injuries, and your economic damages.
- Create a journal to document your pain and suffering for claims related to non-economic damages.
- Do not admit fault or say anything that could imply you contributed to the cause of the crash without speaking with an attorney.
Once you have taken the above steps, contact an experienced Houston truck accident attorney as soon as possible.
Contact a Truck Accident Attorney for Help
An experienced truck accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, contact Zehl & Associates to schedule a free consultation with an Undefeated Houston truck accident lawyer.
Our attorneys are undefeated at trial and have won billions for accident victims.
For more information, please contact our Undefeated truck accident attorneys in Houston, Texas at Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.
We proudly serve Harris County, Midland County, and throughout the state of Texas. We are located in Houston and Midland and throughout the state of Texas:
Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers – Houston
2700 Post Oak Blvd #1000, Houston, TX 77056
(888) 603-3636
Open 24 hours
Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers – Midland
306 W Wall St Suite 701, Midland, TX 79701
(432) 220-0000
Open 24 hours