El Paso, Texas is a major transportation hub along the U.S.–Mexico border, with Interstate 10 (I-10) serving as one of the busiest trucking corridors in the region. Every day, thousands of 18-wheelers and commercial trucks travel through El Paso, increasing the risk of serious traffic accidents involving passenger vehicles.
When a crash involves a semi-truck, the consequences are often severe. Understanding your rights and potential compensation after an 18-wheeler accident on I-10 in El Paso is critical.
Why I-10 in El Paso Is a High-Risk Trucking Route
Interstate 10 runs directly through El Paso and connects Texas to Arizona, California, and major border trade routes. Several factors make this highway especially dangerous:
- Heavy commercial truck traffic
- Long-haul drivers experiencing fatigue
- High speeds through urban areas
- Construction zones and lane reductions
- Congestion near border crossings and exits
Accidents involving large trucks on I-10 often result in catastrophic injuries, extensive property damage, and complex legal claims.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in El Paso
Truck accidents on I-10 are rarely “simple.” Many involve multiple contributing factors, such as:
- Driver fatigue or hours-of-service violations
- Distracted driving (phones, GPS, dispatch devices)
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Improperly loaded or overloaded cargo
- Brake or tire failure
- Poor truck maintenance
- Inexperienced or undertrained drivers
Identifying the true cause of a truck accident is essential when estimating compensation.
Injuries Commonly Seen in Truck Accidents
Because 18-wheelers can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, injuries are often life-altering:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and internal injuries
- Severe burns or lacerations
- Wrongful death
Medical expenses can quickly reach hundreds of thousands of dollars, especially in severe cases.
Who May Be Liable After an 18-Wheeler Accident?
Truck accident claims are more complex than standard car accidents. Potentially liable parties may include:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- Cargo loading companies
- Vehicle or parts manufacturers
- Maintenance contractors
Each party may carry separate insurance policies, increasing the value—but also the complexity—of the claim.
How Compensation Is Calculated in El Paso Truck Accident Cases
Settlement amounts vary widely depending on several factors:
- Severity of injuries
- Medical costs (current and future)
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Degree of fault
👉 Using a settlement calculator can help victims estimate potential compensation based on real-world legal data.
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident on I-10
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident in El Paso:
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Call law enforcement and obtain a crash report
- Take photos and gather witness information
- Avoid speaking to insurance companies without guidance
- Document all medical treatments and expenses
Early action can significantly impact the outcome of a claim.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much are 18-wheeler accident settlements in El Paso?
Truck accident settlements in El Paso can range from tens of thousands to several million dollars, depending on injuries, liability, and insurance coverage.
How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Texas?
Texas generally allows two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim.
Are truck accident cases harder than car accident cases?
Yes. Truck accident claims involve federal regulations, multiple defendants, and higher insurance limits, making them more complex.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule. You may recover damages if you are less than 51% at fault.