Semi-trucks, also known as 18-wheelers or big rigs, are among the largest vehicles on Texas highways. Their sheer size and weight make them integral to transporting goods across the state, but they also pose significant risks in accidents. One of the most critical factors in these accidents is the weight of the semi-truck.
When a semi-truck is involved in a collision, its weight can influence everything from the severity of injuries to the complexity of legal claims. In Texas, truck accident victims may be entitled to compensation, but proving liability often hinges on understanding the truck’s weight and how it impacts the accident.
In this blog, we’ll explore how much a semi-truck weighs, the legal weight limits in Texas, how weight affects truck accidents, and what you should do if you’ve been involved in a truck accident.
How Much Does a Semi-Truck Weigh?
A semi-truck’s weight can vary based on several factors, such as whether it is loaded or empty (referred to as “gross weight” and “tare weight”). Here’s a breakdown of the typical weights:
- Unloaded (Tare Weight): A standard semi-truck (tractor and trailer) without cargo typically weighs between 30,000 and 35,000 pounds.
- Fully Loaded (Gross Weight): A semi-truck carrying a full load of cargo can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, which is the legal limit in Texas and most states.
These weights are critical for truck drivers, trucking companies, and law enforcement to monitor. The weight of a truck can affect not only fuel efficiency and wear on highways but also the likelihood of accidents.
Texas Truck Weight Regulations
In Texas, like most other states, semi-truck weight is regulated to prevent excessive wear on roads and to reduce the risk of accidents. The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) enforces federal and state regulations regarding commercial truck weight. Here’s an overview of the rules:
- Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW): The maximum allowable weight for a semi-truck in Texas is 80,000 pounds. This includes the weight of the truck, trailer, and cargo.
- Axle Limits: The weight per axle is also regulated. A truck cannot exceed 20,000 pounds on a single axle and 34,000 pounds on a tandem axle (two axles spaced closely together).
- Overweight Permits: Trucks that exceed the 80,000-pound limit must apply for an overweight permit. These permits are typically issued for trucks carrying oversized loads, such as construction equipment.
How Weight Affects Truck Accidents in Texas
The weight of a semi-truck is a crucial factor in determining the severity of an accident. When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a 3,000-pound passenger vehicle, the consequences are often devastating. Here’s how weight can impact an accident:
- Increased Stopping Distance: The heavier the truck, the longer it takes to stop. A fully loaded semi-truck can take the length of two football fields to come to a complete stop. This can lead to rear-end collisions, especially in heavy traffic or emergency braking situations.
- Greater Impact Force: The force of impact in a collision is directly related to the weight of the vehicles involved. A heavier truck generates more force, leading to more severe injuries, greater property damage, and a higher likelihood of fatalities.
- Rollover Risk: Heavier trucks are more susceptible to rollovers, especially when taking sharp turns or driving on uneven roads. Overloaded or improperly loaded trucks are particularly prone to this type of accident.
Determining Liability in a Truck Accident Involving Weight
When a semi-truck is involved in an accident in Texas, determining liability can be complex, especially if the truck’s weight contributed to the crash. Trucking companies, drivers, and even cargo loaders can be held liable if they failed to adhere to weight regulations. Some common factors that can influence liability include:
- Overloaded Trucks: If a truck was carrying more than the legally allowed 80,000 pounds and this contributed to the accident, the trucking company or cargo loaders could be liable.
- Improperly Loaded Cargo: Cargo that isn’t evenly distributed can cause a semi-truck to become unbalanced, increasing the risk of a rollover or jackknife accident. In these cases, liability could fall on the party responsible for loading the truck.
- Driver Negligence: Truck drivers must follow specific protocols to ensure their vehicle’s weight doesn’t endanger others. If a driver fails to inspect the load, maintain proper stopping distances, or violates weight regulations, they could be found negligent.
- Brake Failure or Mechanical Issues: The heavier the truck, the more stress it places on its braking system and other mechanical components. Failure to properly maintain these systems can lead to catastrophic failures, further complicating liability in an accident.
The Role of Federal Trucking Regulations
In addition to Texas state regulations, semi-truck drivers and trucking companies must follow federal guidelines set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations govern everything from weight limits to hours of service and vehicle maintenance.
If a truck driver or company violates FMCSA regulations, it could strengthen a victim’s personal injury claim. For example, if a truck involved in an accident was found to exceed federal weight limits or if the driver failed to follow mandated safety inspections, this could be used as evidence of negligence.
Why You Need an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney
Truck accidents, especially those involving weight violations, are far more complex than standard car accidents. Victims often face significant medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation costs. Additionally, trucking companies have legal teams and insurance adjusters working to minimize their liability, making it challenging for victims to get the compensation they deserve.
Here’s how an experienced personal injury attorney can help if you’ve been involved in a Texas truck accident:
- Investigating the Accident: A lawyer will gather crucial evidence, such as truck weight logs, inspection records, and accident reports, to determine if weight violations contributed to the accident.
- Identifying All Liable Parties: In some cases, more than one party may be liable for the accident. For example, the trucking company, the driver, or the cargo loader could all be responsible. An attorney will ensure all parties are held accountable.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies will often try to minimize the settlement amount by downplaying the severity of the accident or disputing liability. An attorney will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Litigating Your Case: If a fair settlement can’t be reached, your lawyer will take your case to court, presenting evidence to prove negligence and secure the compensation you need.
What to Do After a Semi-Truck Accident in Texas
If you’ve been involved in a semi-truck accident, it’s essential to take the right steps to protect your health and legal rights. Here’s what you should do:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety are the top priority. Even if you feel fine, it’s important to see a doctor, as injuries from truck accidents can have delayed symptoms.
- Document the Accident: Take photos of the accident scene, including the damage to your vehicle and the semi-truck. If possible, get contact information from witnesses and make notes about what happened.
- Contact an Attorney: A truck accident lawyer will handle communication with insurance companies, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better your chances of securing a fair settlement.
Conclusion: Understanding the Weight of a Semi-Truck is Crucial in Texas Accidents
The weight of a semi-truck is one of the most critical factors in determining the severity of an accident and the complexity of a legal claim. In Texas, trucking companies and drivers are required to follow strict weight regulations to protect the safety of other motorists. When those regulations are violated, and an accident occurs, victims may be entitled to compensation.
If you’ve been injured in a semi-truck accident, it’s essential to work with an experienced personal injury attorney who understands Texas trucking laws and can help you navigate the legal process. Contact Ryan Orsatti Law today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
