Seriously injured in a San Antonio truck crash? At Trevino Injury Law, we’ve won record-breaking verdicts for 18-wheeler accident victims across Texas while our clients focused on healing.
Semi-truck collisions create unique legal challenges beyond typical accidents. Our San Antonio truck accident lawyers navigate Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations and Texas transportation laws to protect your interests.
We preserve critical evidence before it disappears, identify all liable parties, calculate your complete current and future damages, and handle all insurance negotiations while you focus solely on recovery.
Our specialized knowledge makes the difference between minimal settlements and maximum compensation.
Key Takeaways
- Specialized expertise required – Truck cases involve multiple liable parties, federal regulations, and insurance limits up to $5 million
- Time is critical – Evidence can be destroyed after 6 months; Texas has a strict two-year filing deadline
- Trial lawyers get better results – Our courtroom experience secured a $17 million settlement in a fatal truck crash case
Dont’ Settle for Lowball Offers
CHECK YOUR MAX COMPENSATION (FREE)Fast, Free, and No Obligation
“The insurance company offered less than $20,000. I ended up with over a million.” – Jackie Galindo
Our San Antonio truck accident law firm assists victims of tractor-trailer accidents in South Texas, including those in San Antonio, Corpus Christi, Laredo, McAllen, Brownsville, Edinburg, and Harlingen.
Truck accident lawyer help is here.

Why Hiring a San Antonio Truck Accident Lawyer Transforms Your Case: Beyond the $1 Million Insurance Threshold
Regular auto accidents typically involve $30,000 insurance policies, but commercial truck cases routinely exceed the $1 million threshold—requiring an entirely different legal approach. Our experience has shown that cases properly handled by specialized truck accident attorneys frequently result in settlements and verdicts of several million dollars, compared to the fraction that victims might receive when represented by general practice attorneys.
Did you know that 18-wheeler truck crashes are not only 10 times more likely to cause severe injuries or death than regular car accidents, but also typically involve 30 times higher insurance coverage? This creates a fundamentally different legal landscape where trucking companies fight aggressively to protect their substantial policies.
Trucking companies deploy specialized defense teams specifically trained to minimize high-value claims when facing cases with million-dollar liability limits. Without equivalent specialized representation, victims are severely disadvantaged in these high-stakes cases.
How we transform truck accident cases beyond the $1 million threshold:
- Trigger additional insurance policies – We identify all coverage sources beyond the primary $1 million policy
- Multiple responsible parties – We target not just the driver, but the trucking company, cargo loaders, repair shops, and parts makers—each with their own policies
- Federal regulatory expertise – We leverage FMCSA violations to establish negligence that general practitioners often miss
- Advanced evidence preservation – We immediately deploy legal teams to secure black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records before they disappear
- Strategic liability distribution – We pursue proportional recovery from each responsible entity to maximize total compensation
As your San Antonio truck accident attorneys, we’ve transformed standard $1 million policy cases into multi-million dollar recoveries by applying specialized knowledge in commercial transportation law. Our approach has secured numerous settlements and verdicts exceeding $5 million—including our record $17 million settlement—far beyond what general practice attorneys typically achieve in these complex cases.

Dangerous San Antonio & Bexar County Highways: Where Local Legal Expertise Matters
A personal injury lawyer familiar with San Antonio’s most hazardous big-rig truck accident spots gives you a significant edge. At Trevino Injury Law, our local expertise includes deep familiarity with Interstate 35 on the south side, which ranks among Texas’s deadliest highways for commercial vehicle crashes, according to fatality data by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
For instance, we have handled many vehicle accidents in San Antonio on Interstate 10 near Medical Drive, where violent truck collisions frequently occur. This experience provides insight into these locations’ unique evidence patterns and liability factors.
San Antonio’s truck crash hotspots where we regularly handle cases:
- I-35 South – Known for commercial vehicle crashes where proving liability requires specialized evidence
- I-10 West – Complex accident scenes near Medical Drive that demand thorough investigation
- Loop 410 South – Site of hazardous cargo incidents that involve multiple regulatory violations
- Highway 90 – Frequent wrong-way truck collisions requiring advanced reconstruction
- State Highway 151 – Multi-vehicle commercial accidents that present complex liability scenarios
- I-37 – High-speed truck crashes where electronic evidence preservation is critical

Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer Near You in San Antonio & Bexar County
As 18-wheeler crash lawyers, we use our local expertise to anticipate the defense strategies employed by the trucking industry in the United States and by trucking companies in this area. Combined with our comprehensive knowledge of federal trucking regulations, our experience specific to this location enables us to build stronger cases and secure better compensation for San Antonio 18 wheeler accident victims throughout Bexar County.
This includes the communities of Alamo Heights, Balcones Heights, Castle Hills, China Grove, Converse, Grey Forest, Helotes, Hill Country Village, Hollywood Park, Kirby, Leon Valley, Live Oak, Olmos Park, San Antonio, Shavano Park, Somerset, St. Hedwig, Terrell Hills, Von Ormy, and Windcrest.
Don’t trust lawyers who don’t know the special transportation issues and accident trends specific to San Antonio and Bexar County.

What to Do After a Truck Accident in San Antonio?
If you’ve been in a San Antonio 18-wheeler accident, take these five critical steps immediately to protect your health and legal rights. We know this is an overwhelming time, and it’s hard to think clearly after such a traumatic event.
First, get medical help right away, even if you feel okay. Many injuries can hide their symptoms at first. Second, call 911 to report this serious accident and obtain a police report, creating an official record. Third, gather evidence such as photos of all vehicles involved, the accident scene, and any injuries you sustained, if possible. Fourth, exchange information with the truck driver who hit you. Finally, notify your insurance company about the accident, but only provide basic facts, especially if it involves a large truck.
Critical (5) actions to take after a truck wreck:
- Get medical care immediately (document all treatments)
- Call the police to file an official accident report
- Gather evidence – photos, videos, witness information
- Exchange information with the truck driver (license, insurance, company name)
- Notify your insurance company about the accident (basic facts only)

Don’t Trust Your Memory – Write It Down
Write down everything you remember about the accident while it’s still fresh. Note specific details like:
- Weather and road conditions
- What happened before the impact
- Any statements made by the truck driver
- Names and contact information of witnesses
- Photos of the accident scene and your injuries

Accident Claim Tip – Record yourself on your phone with details about the accident. Include the exact location, weather, road, and lighting conditions. Describe how the crash occurred (e.g., “I was stopped at a red light when…”). Document vehicle positions before and after the collision and any traffic signals, and take photos or videos of the scene. Also, gather names and contact info of witnesses and record any statements made by the other driver or witnesses.
Please document your physical and emotional state. This includes noting symptoms immediately after the accident, even if they seem minor, and any changes in symptoms over time (such as new pain or limitations, and emotional distress). Additionally, reflect on how your injuries impact your daily life, including work, hobbies, sleep, and relationships. Remember to keep track of doctor visits, diagnoses, medications, and treatment plans.
What Not To Do After a Truck Crash or Collision in San Antonio, TX
Wondering what NOT to do after a truck accident? Avoid these common mistakes that could hurt your case:
- Don’t admit fault – Even saying “I’m sorry” can be twisted as an admission of guilt
- Don’t give recorded statements – Insurance adjusters are trained to get you to say damaging things
- Don’t accept early settlement offers – These are almost always far less than your case is worth
- Don’t post about your accident on social media – Insurance companies monitor these accounts
- Don’t delay medical treatment – Gaps in care can be used to claim your injuries aren’t serious
- Don’t sign anything – Without a truck accident attorney reviewing it first
- Don’t discard evidence – Keep damaged property, medical records, and accident-related documents
Trucking companies deploy investigators and attorneys immediately after crashes to build their defense. What seems like an innocent conversation with an adjuster can seriously damage your claim and lower your payout.

Contact our San Antonio 18-wheeler accident lawyers before speaking with an adjuster. We’ll handle all communications with insurance companies to protect your rights while you focus on recovery.
Do I Have a Valid Truck Accident Case in San Antonio, Texas?
If you were injured in a truck accident in San Antonio or anywhere in Texas due to someone else’s negligence, you likely have a valid case. According to the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003(a), you have two years to file an injury claim. Texas Transportation data shows driver or company negligence accounts for about 80% of commercial truck accidents.
Your trucking claim is probably viable if you can show these five key elements:
- Recent injury – Your accident happened within the last two years (Texas Statute of Limitations)
- Someone else’s fault – The truck driver, company, or manufacturer was negligent
- Measurable damages – You have physical injuries requiring medical treatment
- Available compensation – The responsible party has insurance coverage or assets
- Supporting evidence – You have accident reports, witness statements, or medical records
Worried you might be partly at fault? That’s okay. Texas law still allows you to recover money if you were less than 51% responsible, often called the “51% bar rule.” Your payment would just be reduced by your share of the blame. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault for a $100,000 case, you could still receive $80,000.

To be clear, don’t try to figure this out alone. Many truck crash victims think they don’t have a case when they do. As experienced San Antonio 18-wheeler accident attorneys, we’ve helped clients who initially believed they couldn’t file a claim to recover substantial compensation after our review.
How Trucking Companies Try to Avoid Paying You
Trucking companies use calculated tactics to minimize your compensation:
- Quick lowball settlements – Offering fast money before your injuries are fully diagnosed
- Shifting blame to you – Using Texas comparative fault laws to reduce their legal liability
- Disputing injury severity – Claiming your injuries resulting from the accident are exaggerated or pre-existing
- Strategic evidence handling – Destroying electronic logs and maintenance records after six months
- Creating financial pressure – Deliberately delaying claims to force desperate settlements
- Social media surveillance – Monitoring your online posts to contradict your injury claims
- Recorded statements – Using your own words against you before you have legal representation
Our truck accident attorneys recognize these tactics immediately and know how to counter them to protect your right to full compensation.

Call (210) TREVINO now for your free case evaluation. Our skilled and highly rated semi-truck accident law firm will evaluate your situation, examine your evidence, and honestly assess your case’s strength and value at no cost or obligation to you.
Types of Commercial Truck Accidents Trevino Injury Law Handles in South Texas
We represent victims of all commercial vehicle accidents in San Antonio and South Texas. Our skilled San Antonio truck accident attorneys have successfully handled cases involving every major category of commercial truck traffic collisions, each with unique investigation requirements and liability considerations.
Types of Truck Accidents Our San Antonio Truck Accident Attorneys Handle:
- Rear-end collisions – When the vehicle weight of an 80,000-pound (approximately 36,300 kg) truck hits your car from behind, often due to driver fatigue or distraction
- Rollover accidents – Trucks flip over due to improper loading, high speeds on curves, or sudden maneuvers
- Jackknife accidents – The trailer swings sideways at a 90-degree angle, usually from improper braking
- Wide turn accidents – Trucks swing wide for turns and crush or sideswipe cars in blind spots
- Lost load accidents – Unsecured cargo falls onto roadways, creating sudden hazards for other drivers
- Blind spot crashes – Happen in “no-zones” where truck drivers cannot see surrounding vehicles
- Tire blowout accidents – Sudden tire failures from poor maintenance, causing the truck to lose control
Each type of crash leaves unique evidence that our team knows how to find and document. Trevino Injury Law works with crash experts who can identify exactly what happened and who should pay for your injuries.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Texas: OTR Driver Fatigue and Federal (HOS) Regulations
According to National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) data, truck driver fatigue leads to about 30%—40% of all serious commercial vehicle crashes in San Antonio. Federal hours-of-service (HOS) rules limit driving time, but many companies pressure drivers to violate these rules to meet tight deadlines.
Over-the-road (OTR) truck drivers typically log between 2,000 and 3,000 miles (or 3,200 to 4,800 km) weekly on San Antonio’s highways. They face chronic fatigue while managing massive 80,000-pound semi-trucks. These professionals face constant employment pressure. They spend weeks away from home, sleep irregularly, and deal with tight delivery deadlines. When trucking companies pressure drivers to bend federal hours-of-service rules, the consequences can be deadly, especially on congested routes like I-35 and I-10, where a split-second lapse in attention can have life-altering effects.
Frequent Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents in San Antonio, TX
- Driver fatigue – Tired drivers react slowly and make poor decisions, much like drunk drivers
- Driving under the influence – Alcohol or drug impairment severely compromises reaction time and judgment
- Mechanical failures – Faulty brakes, blown tires, and steering problems from poor truck maintenance
- Speeding – Exceeding the speed limit to meet delivery deadlines, often on I-35 and I-10 corridors
- Distracted driving – Texting while driving, adjusting GPS, eating, or using dispatch systems while driving
- Improper loading – Unsecured or imbalanced cargo shifting during transport
- Weather conditions – Heavy rain and fog creating slippery roads and poor visibility
- Inadequate training – New drivers without proper emergency response skills
Finding the exact cause of truck driver negligence is key to winning your case. If we prove the driver was too tired, we can hold the trucking company responsible for pushing illegal schedules. If bad brakes caused the crash, we can pursue claims against maintenance companies or parts makers.

Federal Hours of Service Rules under Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 49, Part 395 for Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers
Federal law sets strict limits on how long commercial drivers can operate trucks. This rule helps prevent accidents caused by fatigue. Trucking companies put everyone at risk when they pressure drivers to break the rules. This includes falsifying logs or going over their allowed hours.
These regulations are not just guidelines; they are legally mandated safety measures. Violating them creates clear liability for trucking companies. Knowing these rules helps us show negligence in your truck accident case.
Federal HOS Daily Limits
- Max 14-hour work window after 10 hours off
- Max 11 hours driving within that 14-hour window
- Must take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
Federal HOS Weekly Limits
- No driving after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 in 8 days
- Can reset with 34 consecutive hours off
Federal HOS Exceptions
- 2-hour extension allowed in bad weather or traffic
- Sleeper berth split: Off-duty rest can be split (e.g., 7/3 hours)
Federal HOS regulations exist for a reason—overtired drivers cause deadly crashes. We check electronic logs, driver records, and company messages. This helps us find violations that caused your accident. We’ve won significant settlements by proving that trucking companies and drivers have been negligent on San Antonio’s most dangerous highways.

Our team looks at all evidence – electronic logs, maintenance records, and driver history – to find who should pay for your injuries. We know exactly what to look for in each type of truck crash case. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve.
Who Can Be Held Liable for an 18-Wheeler Truck Crash in San Antonio, Texas?
In San Antonio and across Texas, various parties—beyond just the driver—can be held accountable for injuries resulting from a truck accident. According to data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 73% of commercial semi-truck accidents involve more than one liable party.
This means you may be eligible to receive compensation from multiple sources. However, depending on the specific circumstances of the accident, there may be cases where only one responsible party is involved.
Finding all responsible parties is key. It helps you get complete insurance coverage and compensation for your injuries.
Potentially liable parties in truck accident cases:
- Truck driver – For unsafe driving like speeding or texting
- Trucking company – For poor hiring or training practices
- Cargo loader – For improperly secured loads
- Vehicle manufacturer – For defective parts
- Maintenance provider – For inadequate repairs
- Government entities – For unsafe road conditions
- Other drivers – When their actions contribute to the crash
As experienced San Antonio 18-wheeler truck accident attorneys, we recognize how overwhelming this situation can be while you’re also managing injuries and recovery. You shouldn’t have to navigate this process alone. We perform comprehensive investigations to determine all parties that might be at fault.

Determining Fault: The Accident Liability Process
- Securing the truck’s data recorder (black box)
- Reviewing driver logs and company records
- Checking maintenance and inspection records
- Talking with witnesses and first responders
- Working with accident experts
- Examining the driver’s qualification file
For example, if a tired driver caused your accident due to their company’s unrealistic schedule, both the driver and the company share responsibility. Additionally, if faulty brakes contributed to the crash, the repair shop and the parts manufacturer might also be liable.
Determining responsibility in a truck wreck requires specialized knowledge of trucking laws and industry regulations. This is why having an 18-wheeler accident attorney in San Antonio can significantly impact your case.
Identifying all responsible parties involved in an 18-wheeler accident is key. It helps maximize your compensation and holds everyone accountable for your truck crash injuries. Contact Trevino Injury Law today. We can help you identify all responsible parties in your situation. We’ll also guide you through the next steps of your truck accident claim.

How Long Does a San Antonio Truck Accident Claim Take?
If you’ve been hit by a truck on Texas highways, truck accident cases in San Antonio usually go through a four-phase process that can take anywhere from 8 to 14 months to settle.
However, this truck wreck timeline can vary significantly based on several important factors. Cases involving catastrophic injuries may take 18 to 24 months to settle if extensive treatment is required. Additionally, insurance companies are often more resistant to offering fair settlements in truck accident cases due to the high-value policies, which typically range from $750,000 to $5 million.
This resistance to reasonable settlements can further extend the duration of the process, as can court availability – if your case proceeds to trial for a jury verdict rather than settling, Bexar County court scheduling alone could add another 1-2 years to your timeline.
Factors that affect your case timeline:
- Injury severity – Injuries requiring multiple surgeries or rehabilitation extend timelines
- Insurance resistance – Higher policy limits mean more aggressive defense tactics
- Complexity of liability – Cases with multiple responsible parties take longer to resolve
- Court availability – If your case goes to trial, you’re subject to the Bexar County Courthouse availability, which could cause a one to two-year delay
- Evidence collection challenges – Obtaining and analyzing specialized truck evidence takes time
The typical (four-phase) process for truck accident cases:
- Medical treatment phase – Receive all necessary health care treatment and reach maximum medical improvement
- For serious injuries: May include multiple surgeries, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and specialist consultations
- Case timeline depends on the recovery progress and final medical prognosis
- Investigation phase – Gather evidence, interview witnesses, analyze data, and consult experts
- Demand and negotiation phase – Present claims to insurance companies and negotiate a settlement
- Litigation phase – File lawsuit and prepare for trial if settlement negotiations fail
We never rush to settle a case before fully understanding your injuries. Medical experts must document any permanent disabilities, future surgeries, or ongoing care needs to ensure your compensation covers all expenses and damages resulting from the accident. Settling too early can be a costly mistake for accident victims.

Truck crash cases need specific evidence. This includes electronic logging devices, driver qualification files, and maintenance records. As your big rig accident lawyer, we will quickly send preservation letters. This step protects essential evidence, as companies may dispose of it after a specific period.
Turning Regulation Violations into Maximum Compensation: How Trucking Laws Increase Your Settlement Value
Federal and state trucking laws can significantly increase the potential value of your accident claim. These regulations create clear standards that, when violated, provide strong evidence of negligence and strengthen your right to substantial compensation. Regulatory violations can transform a basic injury claim into a high-value case with the potential for punitive damages.
Key federal (FMCSA) regulations that increase case value:
- Driving time limits – Violations of the 11-hour daily maximum often lead to higher settlements
- Electronic logging devices – Tampering or falsification creates mighty evidence of intentional misconduct
- Drug and alcohol testing – Failed or skipped tests dramatically increase liability exposure
- Maintenance standards – Neglected inspections create clear paper trails of negligence
- Driver qualification files – Missing medical certifications or training records strengthen your claim

Necessary Texas state regulations that enhance compensation:
- Insurance requirements – Higher mandated coverage means more available compensation
- For interstate operations (crossing state lines), which is governed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA):
- $750,000 minimum liability coverage for general freight carriers
- $1,000,000 minimum for trucks carrying oil
- $5,000,000 minimum for trucks carrying hazardous materials
- For intrastate operations (within Texas only):
- $500,000 minimum liability coverage for trucks over 26,000 pounds
- $300,000 minimum for trucks under 26,000 pounds carrying household goods
- For interstate operations (crossing state lines), which is governed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA):
- Texas weight limits – Overweight violations often correlate with increased settlement amounts
- State inspection requirements – Missed inspections create presumption of negligence
- Texas commercial licensing – Driver qualification violations support higher damage awards
- Accident reporting protocols – Improper reporting can indicate attempted cover-ups
A real-world example: If we find that a driver exceeded their allowed hours and fatigue was a contributing factor to your crash, this violation indicates fault and often strengthens claims for enhanced damages against both the driver and the company.
Our team meticulously documents every regulatory violation after your truck crash collision, each potentially increasing your case’s value. These trucking laws directly impact your compensation by providing clear standards that, when broken, justify maximum recovery for your injuries and losses.
Texas Statute of Limitations for Truck Accident Claims
You have exactly two years from the date of your truck accident to file a lawsuit in Texas courts. This legal filing deadline (called a “statute of limitations”) is strictly enforced by Texas law. We’ve seen many accident victims lose their right to compensation simply because they waited too long to take action.
What Deadlines or Timelines Apply to a Truck Wreck Claim in San Antonio, TX?
- Two-year deadline – Courts strictly enforce this with very few exceptions
- Early notice requirements – Some entities need formal notice within 6 months
- Evidence preservation – Trucking companies can legally destroy records after 6 months
- Case preparation time – Complex truck cases need 6-12 months of preparation
- Limited exceptions – Deadlines may be extended for minors or when defendants leave Texas

We know these deadlines can feel overwhelming when you’re focused on recovery. But missing this two-year deadline permanently eliminates your right to seek compensation, regardless of how strong your case might be or how severe your injuries are.
At Trevino Injury Law, we hear monthly stories from families who waited 25 months or longer after their accident to contact an attorney. Despite catastrophic injuries and clear liability, they had no legal options left because they missed the filing deadline by just one month.
We recommend you contact a San Antonio semi-truck accident attorney as soon as possible, no later than 6 months after your motor vehicle accident. This ensures adequate investigation and case preparation time, strengthening your truck crash claim and improving your chances of receiving fair compensation. Call us today for a free consultation to ensure you don’t miss these critical deadlines.
Injuries and Compensation After a Truck Accident in San Antonio
Eighteen-wheeler accidents typically cause more severe injuries than regular car crashes due to the massive size and weight difference between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles.
According to Texas Department of Transportation data, victims of commercial truck accidents are often five times more likely to require hospitalization than those in car accidents.
We know how overwhelming these injuries can be for you and your family. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and lengthy recovery periods, and may result in permanent changes to your daily life.
Common Truck Accident Injuries
Truck accident victims frequently suffer multiple injuries that require immediate and ongoing medical care. We’ve helped numerous clients through these complicated recoveries.
Most common injuries in truck accidents:
- Brain injuries – From mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBI) requiring lifelong care
- Spinal cord injuries – Including paralysis, disc damage, and nerve pain
- Broken bones – Often complex fractures needing surgery and therapy
- Internal organ damage – Hidden injuries that can cause life-threatening complications
- Severe burns – Especially in accidents involving dangerous materials or fuel fires
- Amputations – Loss of limbs from crushing injuries
- Psychological trauma – Ongoing anxiety, depression, and stress following the crash
These injuries often require medical specialists, multiple surgeries, extended hospital stays, and comprehensive rehab programs. Many people face long-term or permanent changes that affect their ability to work and enjoy everyday activities.

The severity of truck accident injuries directly impacts the compensation you deserve. Insurance companies often undervalue these long-term effects, so having experienced legal help is crucial for securing fair payment for your injuries and compensation after a truck accident in Texas.
Wrongful Death Claims After a Fatal Truck Accident in San Antonio or South Texas
When a truck accident claims a life, families face both devastating grief and overwhelming financial burdens. Texas law allows specific family members to seek justice through wrongful death claims.
- Who can file – Spouses, children, and parents of the deceased have legal standing to pursue claims
- Estate representation – Estate executors/administrators may file survival claims if family members don’t
- Time sensitivity – A two-year statute of limitations applies, starting from the date of death
- Recoverable damages – Compensation for lost income, funeral expenses, lost companionship, and mental anguish
- Unique valuation methods – Cases use life expectancy tables and projected lifetime earnings
- Survival actions – Separate claims for the deceased’s pre-death pain and suffering
- Punitive damages – Available in cases involving gross negligence by the trucking company

These cases require specialized expertise to value the profound loss while navigating complex legal requirements. We handle these sensitive matters with the legal tenacity and compassionate understanding that families deserve during their darkest moments.
How Injuries Affect Your Compensation
The severity of your injuries plays a crucial role in determining the value of your truck accident claim. For minor injuries, compensation typically ranges from $10,000 to $50,000, while severe, life-altering injuries can lead to damages exceeding $1 million.
Six key factors that influence your compensation amount:
- Injury severity – More serious injuries require more extensive treatment
- Medical costs – Everything from emergency care to surgeries and hospital stays
- Recovery timeline – Longer recovery periods mean more medical bills and lost wages
- Permanent limitations – Physical challenges that affect your ability to work and enjoy life
- Emotional impact – Pain, suffering, and mental health effects
- Future care needs – Ongoing treatments, medications, and special equipment
Insurance companies usually set settlements using standard calculations. These often fail to fully value serious injuries. They’re hoping you’ll accept less than you deserve. We never let that happen.
Our San Antonio personal injury attorneys ensure your compensation reflects the true impact of your injuries on all aspects of your life. We carefully document how your injuries affect your compensation and fight for every dollar you deserve. Contact our experienced accident lawyers today for a free evaluation of your truck accident injury claim.
Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Texas law lets truck accident victims claim compensation for various damages. This helps cover their financial and personal losses.
Available compensation categories:
- Medical expenses – All past and future medical care related to your injuries
- Lost income – Wages lost during recovery and reduced earning capacity
- Property damage – Repair or replacement of your vehicle and personal property
- Pain and suffering – Physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident
- Disfigurement – Compensation for scarring or physical changes affecting quality of life
- Loss of consortium – Impact on relationship with spouse or family members
- Punitive damages – Additional compensation when defendants acted with gross negligence
Most truck accident settlements include economic damages (with specific dollar amounts) and non-economic damages (addressing pain and quality of life impacts). The most serious cases may also include punitive damages to punish particularly reckless behavior.

Punitive damages are additional monetary awards beyond compensation for actual losses, designed to punish defendants for especially reckless, malicious, or fraudulent conduct and to deter similar behavior in the future.
The Science of Maximum Compensation: Our Expert Team Approach to 18-Wheeler Cases

At Trevino Injury Law, we’ve developed a scientific methodology for maximizing truck accident compensation that goes far beyond what most firms offer. Unlike firms that merely refer to “experts” in theory, we actually hire and pay for specialized professionals across multiple disciplines when building your case. This investment in real expertise—not just legal theory—is what allows us to construct cases designed to withstand the most aggressive insurance defense tactics and secure exceptional results at settlement or trial.
Many truck accident victims don’t realize their future costs and losses. This often leads to settlements that run out before their needs are met. Insurance studies show that having an attorney can boost compensation by three to five times. This is much more than what victims often get on their own.
How Trevino Injury Law Maximizes Your Compensation
Our comprehensive team approach integrates four specialized units with distinct expertise crucial to building maximum-value truck accident cases. Unlike firms that rely on general practitioners, we deploy these specialized teams of experts to address every aspect of your case, ensuring nothing is overlooked in your pursuit of full compensation.
Medical & Health Assessment Team
- Medical specialists – We work with physicians and surgeons who document your injuries and future treatment needs
- Life care planners – Develop comprehensive projections of lifetime care requirements and associated costs
- Pain management experts – Quantify ongoing suffering to support substantial pain and suffering claims
- Mental health professionals – Evaluate psychological impact, including PTSD and emotional distress
Technical Investigation Team
- Accident reconstructionists – Scientifically establish exactly how your crash occurred and who’s responsible
- Biomechanical engineers – Link specific crash forces directly to your unique injury patterns
- Trucking industry specialists – Identify regulation violations and industry negligence
- Highway safety engineers – Evaluate if road conditions contributed to your accident
Financial Impact Analysis
- Forensic economists – Calculate precise figures for lifetime earning losses using advanced models
- Vocational rehabilitation experts – Determine future work capacity and necessary retraining
- Financial damage specialists – Document every recoverable expense from the accident
Strategic Legal Advantage
- Negotiation expertise – Counter insurance tactics designed to minimize payments
- Trial preparation – Build a compelling trial-ready case to maximize settlement value and enhance trial success if necessary
- Private investigators – Uncover evidence that insurance companies try to hide
We calculate all current and future costs associated with your injuries. This includes medical treatments, income losses, home modifications, and adaptive equipment. This comprehensive approach ensures you receive compensation for your lifetime needs following a serious truck accident, not just your immediate expenses.
Hire the Best San Antonio Truck Accident Attorney: Trevino Injury Law vs. Settlement Mills
While settlement mills rush cases to quick, low-value resolutions to maximize their profit, Trevino Injury Law’s approach focuses on securing the maximum compensation our clients deserve.
A “settlement mill” is a high-volume personal-injury law firm that quickly signs many cases and pushes most of them to low, fast settlements instead of preparing each case for trial, so lawyers spend minimal time on each client to maximize fees through sheer quantity.
Most “settlement mills” treat you like a file number, grabbing the first low offer so they can move on. Trevino Injury Law does the opposite.
We work every truck accident case as if a jury trial is certain—digging deep for evidence, refusing unfair offers, and fighting in court when needed.
Our trial-ready stance forces insurers to pay full value and has earned our clients some of the largest truck-accident settlements and verdicts in Texas.
Why Trevino Injury Law Outperforms Settlement Mills
- Courtroom muscle: Over 80 jury trials with a 97.5% win rate, including a $17 million wrongful death truck crash settlement, a $2.2 million 18-wheeler settlement, a $1.8 million truck accident settlement, a $1.4 million truck wreck settlement, and a $1 million truck crash settlement.
- Big-case instincts: Turned a $1.3M offer into a $7.88M verdict; turned a $5K offer into a $536K trial verdict.
- Focused practice: Complex 18-wheeler and commercial vehicle cases across South Texas.
- Local insight: Decades in San Antonio courts give us a home-field advantage with juries.
- Hands-on counsel: J.R. Trevino—20+ years’ experience, top Texas verdicts six straight years (2017-2022).
- Transparent updates: You hear from us every 45 days—no guessing about your case status.
- No-win, no-fee: You owe nothing unless we secure compensation for you.
Skip the quick-settlement factories. Hire the experienced legal team designed to maximize your claims so you can focus on recovery.

The Trial Lawyer Advantage: Why Insurance Companies Pay More When You Hire a Courtroom Attorney
Candelario (J.R.) Trevino is not like other settlement-focused attorneys. He is a battle-tested trial lawyer and has shown his skills in courtrooms all over Texas. Unlike settlement-focused firms, experienced truck accident trial lawyers are prepared to try your case before a jury when necessary to secure the full compensation you deserve.
This distinction is crucial—many “personal injury lawyers” rarely see the inside of a courtroom, while J.R. has tried over 80 cases to verdict with a 97.5% success rate.
Insurance companies recognize the difference, which is why their compensation calculations significantly increase when they learn that an experienced and proven courtroom lawyer is handling your case.
For complex truck accident cases, where millions of dollars may be at stake, the willingness and ability to take your case to trial often becomes the deciding factor in securing maximum compensation. Our experience shows that cases prepared for trial typically result in significantly higher settlements—even when they don’t ultimately go to court—because insurance companies see we’re serious when we turn down low offers.
Unlike settlement mills that seek quick, low-value settlements, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial. This method has led to numerous top verdicts and settlements. Insurance companies are aware that we do not accept inadequate offers.
J.R. Trevino has substantial credentials as a member of the San Antonio Trial Lawyers Association and Texas Trial Lawyers Association. More importantly, he is personally committed to each client’s case.
We understand this is likely one of the most difficult times in your life. Our truck accident clients value our clear talks, honest advice, and dedicated support as they recover. When you hire an experienced San Antonio truck accident law firm, like Trevino Injury Law, you choose a team with a proven record of fighting for maximum compensation.
Real Results from Past Truck Accident & Personal Injury Cases
We don’t just reject insurance companies’ lowball offers—we transform them into life-changing settlements, consistently turning $5,000 ‘final offers’ into six-figure verdicts and $1.3 million proposals into multi-million dollar recoveries.
These aren’t isolated incidents. We consistently deliver exceptional results for truck accident victims across South Texas.
Here are some of our notable truck accident case results:
- 18-Wheeler Crash (3 fatalities) – $17 million settlement
- Mendoza v. Farmer’s Best – $7.88 million verdict (6x the $1.3M insurance offer)
- Jackie Galindo v. Jerry Word – $1.25 million settlement (from less than $20K initial offer)
- Arriaga v. Montemayor – $536,000 verdict (107x the $5K insurance offer)
- Guerrero v. Soloman – $291,000 verdict (11x the $25K insurance offer)
Note: These represent only a sample of our results; many settlements and verdicts remain confidential due to legal agreements.
We know these numbers represent real people with real struggles. Our clients’ stories matter more than statistics.
“He convinced the jury to reward me an enormous award. I never would have imagined that amount of money,” says Mario Mendoza.
Jackie Galindo shares: “The insurance company offered less than $20,000. I ended up with over a million.”
While every case differs, our approach of thorough investigation and willingness to take cases to trial consistently leads to much higher recoveries. We prepare every truck accident case as if it will go to trial from day one, which often convinces insurance companies to offer fair settlements without court involvement.
These results from past clients (truck and auto accident cases) show our commitment to maximizing client compensation.
Call us today to discuss what your case might be worth.
Free Truck Accident Case Review – Contact Us Today
If you’ve sustained injuries after a truck accident, you need to know what your case is worth. Get your free evaluation now. We know you’re going through a difficult time, and our accident attorneys can help.
Our San Antonio commercial truck accident attorneys know who to guide you through the recovery process and are available 24/7 to listen to your story and explain your options in plain language.
Call us at (210) 873-8466 for immediate help, or fill out our simple online form below for a quick response.
If you don’t call us, please contact an experienced San Antonio truck accident lawyer today.
Looking for a Truck Accident Lawyer Near You? We’re Right Here in San Antonio
Our office is conveniently located in Northwest San Antonio at 6100 Bandera Rd, Suite 850, San Antonio, TX. We are easily accessible off Loop 410 or 1604, between I-10 and State Highway 151. We proudly serve clients all over South Texas. This includes San Antonio, Corpus Christi, Laredo, McAllen, Brownsville, Edinburg, and Harlingen.
Can’t travel because of your injuries? We understand. We’ll come to you—whether you’re at home or in the hospital. Your recovery is your priority, and we respect that.
Don’t forget. You pay absolutely nothing unless we win your case. There are no upfront costs, hourly attorney’s fees, or expenses while your case progresses. We only get paid when you get paid, so you can focus on healing without money worries during this tough time.
Don’t let the trucking company and its insurance adjusters pressure you into accepting less than you deserve. They have teams of lawyers protecting their interests—shouldn’t you have someone fighting just as hard for you?
Take the first step today. Contact us now for your free case review and start your journey toward fair compensation for your truck accident injuries. One call could make all the difference in your recovery and financial future.
Get Answers: San Antonio Truck Accident FAQs
When hiring a big rig accident attorney, we know you have questions. Our clients often ask about costs, timelines, fault concerns, compensation, and court appearances. We understand these concerns are important to you and your family during this challenging time.
How much does it cost to hire a commercial truck accident lawyer?
You pay nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis (typically 35-45%), meaning we only get paid when you win. We advance all case expenses for investigators, experts, and court filings—with zero hidden costs. This contingent fee arrangement ensures our interests align with yours: you owe us nothing if you don’t recover compensation.
How long will my truck accident case take?
Most cases resolve in 8-14 months, though severe injuries or insurance company resistance can extend this to 24 months. If your case goes to trial, court scheduling might add another 1-2 years. We know waiting is hard, so we provide updates every 45 days so you’re never left wondering about your case status.
What if I was partially at fault in the trucking accident?
Texas law allows recovery as long as you’re less than 51% responsible, though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Many people incorrectly assume they share blame when they don’t. We’ve seen this many times. Our thorough investigation often reveals that the trucking company bears full responsibility.
How much is my truck accident claim worth in Texas?
Truck accident claims vary significantly, not just by injury severity but also by location within Texas. Minor injuries typically settle for $10,000-$50,000, while catastrophic injuries can exceed $1 million. Your case value depends on medical expenses, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, and permanent impacts—but also on where your accident occurred, as jury verdicts in San Antonio often differ from those in Corpus Christi, Laredo, or McAllen counties. Local court tendencies and jury pools can dramatically affect compensation amounts for identical accidents and injuries. Our results demonstrate our ability to maximize compensation based on our knowledge of these regional differences. We’ve turned a $5,000 initial offer into a $536,000 verdict and secured a $17 million settlement in a fatal 18-wheeler case. Contact us for a free case value assessment that accounts for your specific injury and location factors.
Do I have to go to court for my truck accident case?
Approximately 90% of truck accident cases are settled without going to trial. We treat every case as though it will be presented in court, often resulting in more favorable settlements. Ultimately, accepting a settlement or moving forward with a trial is yours. We provide friendly guidance to help you make the best decision for your situation.
How do I hire the right truck accident lawyer in San Antonio?
Hire a lawyer with specific truck accident trial experience, not just settlements. Verify they have experience with San Antonio truck accident law, FMCSA regulations, and Texas trucking laws. Review their case results, especially comparing initial offers to final verdicts. Ensure they have resources to properly investigate and hire experts. Most importantly, hire someone who communicates clearly and makes you comfortable—you’ll work together during a difficult time. Ask about their truck accident verdict history and communication style during your free consultation.
Is there a truck accidenIs there a truck accident lawyer near me in San Antonio?
Yes! Trevino Injury Law is centrally located in Northwest San Antonio at 6100 Bandera Rd, Suite 850—easily accessible from all major highways (Loop 410, Loop 1604, I-10, and State Highway 151). We serve truck accident victims throughout all San Antonio neighborhoods and surrounding areas, including Alamo Heights, Castle Hills, Leon Valley, Live Oak, and Windcrest. Our South Texas practice extends to Corpus Christi, Laredo, McAllen, Brownsville, Edinburg, and Harlingen. Can’t travel due to injuries? Don’t worry—we’ll come directly to your home, hospital room, or rehabilitation facility at no extra charge. Call (210) 873-8466 anytime for immediate assistance or to schedule a free consultation and case review at your location.
