We pay for ALL up-front expenses. We don't get paid unless you do.
Have any questions? we are here to help you today
Calls, consultations, and questions are always welcomed and enjoyed.
We know insurance law & insurance company tactics
We will handle the stress of dealing with the insurance companies for you.
Selected as a Texas super lawyer rising star
In 2015, Super Lawyers in Texas selected Joe as a rising star. Super Lawyers recognition is Thomson Reuters service. Learn More.
Austin TRUCKING ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
We would love to help you through this difficult time.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence or carelessness in Austin, Joe Lopez can help you. There are severe consequences to many accidents, long-lasting injuries, and extensive hospital bills. You may not know what to do now that you are hurt and can’t work and provide for your family.
18-Wheeler Trucking Accident Cases
18-wheelers play a major role in modern transportation, making it possible for companies to move goods quickly and efficiently across the country, reaching both urban and rural areas. The concept of the 18-wheeler dates back to when Henry Ford introduced the Model T. Ford needed an efficient way to deliver cars nationwide, so he developed an early version of the 18-wheeler to transport multiple cars at once. This innovation transformed industry by allowing goods to be moved over long distances. However, 18-wheelers come with serious risks. Accidents involving these large trucks are often severe, and in many cases, it’s the driver of the smaller vehicle who suffers the worst. If you or a loved one has been in an 18-wheeler accident, you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Contact our experienced 18-wheeler accident attorney today.
18-Wheeler Trucking Accidents in Texas
In Texas alone, 389 fatal crashes involved 18-wheelers. While this might seem small compared to the 1,500 fatal crashes involving passenger cars, it’s important to consider the often devastating outcomes. Accidents with 18-wheelers are more likely to be deadly than typical car accidents.
These trucks are built to carry heavy loads but are challenging to handle, especially in bad weather. Accidents can happen even on clear days if the driver lacks experience. Driving an 18-wheeler requires skill in managing multiple gears, a large vehicle size, and limited visibility. An inexperienced driver might miss a car in their blind spot, leading to serious collisions. The FMCSA monitors and reports on trucking companies’ safety records to help keep roads safer.
Injuries in 18-Wheeler Trucking Accidents
Injuries from 18-wheeler accidents are often severe and may include:
Broken bones
Concussions
Burns
Internal organ damage
Brain injuries
Spine injuries
Nerve damage
These injuries often lead to lengthy hospital stays and quickly mounting medical bills. If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident, you may be eligible for compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, future earnings, and pain and suffering.
If you or someone close to you has been injured in an accident involving an 18-wheeler, reach out to Joe Lopez, an experienced 18-wheeler accident attorney, for help with your claim. Austin Personal Injury Attorney Joe Lopez knows the serious impact these incidents can have on you and your family. An 18-wheeler accident isn’t just a typical vehicle collision—it has the potential to reshape your life and future. Contact our Austin office today to set up a free initial consultation.
Eagle Ford Shale (EFS) Accidents
The Eagle Ford Shale (EFS) is one of the most significant economic developments in Texas history, with global impact as one of the largest oil and gas projects in terms of investment. This oil-rich stretch spans about 400 miles from Leon County, Texas, to the Mexican border, bringing intense drilling and fracking activity to the region.
Fracking involves drilling deep into the earth and then injecting a high-pressure mix of water, sand, and chemicals to release gas from rock formations. While this process has helped drive economic growth, it has also introduced new challenges, including heavy truck traffic, congested roads, and long commutes in areas like McMullen County, a formerly quiet area about 60 miles south of San Antonio.
Across the U.S., highway deaths have declined over the past six decades, but Texas has seen a spike in motor vehicle fatalities, particularly since the 2008 oil drilling and fracking boom. Texas now leads the nation in motor vehicle deaths, surpassing California, as per the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Counties affected by the Eagle Ford Shale boom have experienced a significant rise in commercial vehicle accidents, with McMullen County witnessing a tenfold increase in crashes involving commercial vehicles, from just four in 2008 to 46 in 2011. The increase in accidents is not limited to rural areas; urban counties serving as industry hubs for oilfields have also seen a rise in incidents as their roads become crowded with tractor-trailers, tankers, and commercial vehicles transporting water, supplies, and workers to and from well sites.
Unfortunately, the oil boom has brought more than economic prosperity to South Texas. Truck crashes, traffic, and long commutes are now part of the daily life in the once quiet McMullen County, about 60 miles south of San Antonio.
For six decades, highway deaths have dropped steadily all across the United States. But in Texas, all motor vehicle fatalities and accidents involving commercial trucks have turned back upward since the state’s oil drilling and fracking boom began in 2008. Since then, Texas has led all states in motor vehicle deaths, surpassing California as the previous national leader, U.S. Department of Transportation records show.
More than a dozen counties have been inundated with traffic from the Eagle Ford Shale energy boom, but McMullen County has seen one of the biggest upswings in commercial vehicle wrecks. Since the beginning of the boom, accidents involving commercial vehicles have increased more than tenfold, from four crashes in 2008 to 46 crashes in 2011, according to crash data compiled by the Texas Department of Transportation.
Records show that fatal accidents increased more in counties that make up the Permian Basin and in those affected by the Barnett and Eagle Ford shale plays, where busy roads regularly fill with tractor-trailers, tanker trucks and commercial vans hauling water, workers, and supplies to oil and natural gas well sites, as well in urban counties that serve as hubs for the oilfield industry.
Why Are Truck Accidents Happening in the Eagle Ford Shale?
The Eagle Ford Shale, located south of San Antonio, has seen a surge in oil and gas production, putting a heavy strain on local infrastructure. As small towns adapt to the increase in industry traffic, their roads are taking a beating. Originally designed for light vehicles and farming equipment, the narrow, two-lane highways are now crowded with tractor-trailers and oil tankers hauling crude oil—a setup they weren’t built to support.
Many accidents in South Texas are related to fatigue, especially among oil industry workers. Long shifts are standard, with drivers and workers often working 12 hours with limited breaks. This demanding schedule leads to exhaustion, which raises the risk of accidents. Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times, impaired focus, and struggle to stay awake—a real hazard on the road.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has warned that drowsiness impairs driving in ways that are similar to alcohol. Sleepy drivers can suffer from slower reaction times, poor focus, and an inability to process information, making them a danger to themselves and others.
Fracking is tough, high-risk work involving heavy machinery, hazardous chemicals, and challenging environments. These conditions add to driver fatigue, with long hours, extreme heat, limited sleep facilities on-site, and long commutes contributing to the problem. Drivers feel the pressure to meet tight deadlines, leading to speeding, reckless driving, and more accidents.
Accidents and Fatalities in the Eagle Ford Shale
In 2014, traffic deaths rose significantly in Texas oil-producing areas, including the Eagle Ford region, where 272 people lost their lives in road accidents—a 13% increase from the 240 fatalities in 2013, as reported by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).
Overall, the Eagle Ford Shale region saw 3,658 traffic accidents with fatalities or serious injuries last year, up from 3,446 the previous year. This is a substantial portion of the 8,600 severe accidents reported statewide.
SEMI-TRUCK ACCIDENTS
Accidents involving large trucks, such as semi-trucks, 18-wheelers, tractor-trailers, big rigs, and single-unit trucks, can be especially dangerous. Weighing over 10,000 pounds, these trucks have a higher rate of fatal accidents per mile than passenger cars. When a collision happens between a car and a semi-truck, the car's occupants are far more likely to suffer serious injuries or even death. In fact, the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 98% of fatal accidents between a semi-truck and a car, the person killed is in the passenger vehicle.
Injuries from these truck accidents are often severe and life-changing, leading to significant financial burdens for both the victims and their families. However, the law allows injured individuals to seek compensation from the responsible party. This compensation can cover medical bills, lost wages, funeral costs, and other expenses. Victims may also receive damages for pain and suffering, while spouses can recover for the loss of companionship and support. Although no amount of money can truly undo the harm, compensation can help lessen the financial stress brought on by these tragic accidents.
Cases involving semi-truck accidents come with unique challenges. Truck drivers must follow strict federal and state regulations and carry higher insurance coverage than standard drivers. Additionally, financial responsibility may extend beyond the truck driver to other parties involved in the operation and maintenance of the truck.
10 reasons people choose our law firm
1
We pay for ALL up-front expenses. We don't get paid unless you do.
2
Calls, consultations, and questions are welcomed and enjoyed.
3
We take the stress of dealing with the insurance companies off of your shoulders.
4
Over 10 years of experience in bodily injury litigation and insurance claims.
5
We work closely with medical providers such as orthopedists and neuro doctors to get you well.
6
Attorney Joe Lopez is fluent in both Spanish and English.
7
Every person you speak with at our office knows you and your case.
8
Your health and well-being is most important to us.
9
You will work directly with an attorney throughout your entire case.
10
We are passionate about protecting Austin, and the surrounding community.
Meet Joe Lopez
Member of the distinguished multi-million dollar advocates
Joe Lopez started practicing law in 2003 and in 2015, he founded Joe Lopez Law. Today he is the lead trial attorney at the firm. Joe is a trial attorney entirely devoted to representing people who have suffered a great deal.
Born and raised in El Paso, Texas, his diverse background and ability to speak Spanish helps Joe establish a strong connection with those he helps.
In 2013, The National Trial Lawyers Top 100, an invitation-only organization, selected Joe to become a member. Also in 2013, Joe became a lifetime member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates, which honors distinguished lawyers. In 2015, Super Lawyers in Texas selected Joe as a rising star. Super Lawyers recognition is Thomson Reuters service. Learn More.
Austin Car Accident Injury Lawyer Joe Lopez is client focused and very selective taking less cases to ensure that your case is our sole focus. This allows us to strictly concentrate on your case. Meaning that our time, attention, and resources are poured directly into your case.
Joe Lopez will always meet directly with our clients and their family members to ensure everyone is well informed of this process. Most importantly, clients will be ensured a level of comfort dealing with the firm. We have an open communication line and return your calls and emails as soon as possible.
I can't say enough positive things about Joe Lopez. I called 5 attorneys before I found Joe. He was so thorough and tenacious. I will forever be indebted to this man. He went above and beyond for me. You won't be disappointed if you use him! He's the best!!
Rachel M.
Yelp Review
Mr. Lopez came highly recommended to me by a friend. He had open communication with me throughout the process and in the end got me what I deserve. If you want a hardworking, attentive, and knowledgeable lawyer, Mr Lopez is the lawyer for you!
Matthew R.
Google Review
Joe Lopez is [by] far the best attorney I have ever worked with. He defines tenacious! Joe worked on my case as if it was his own. It's a great feeling knowing your attorney truly had your best interests in mind, and fights for you with all he has.
Bren S.
Google Review
I can't say enough positive things about Joe Lopez. I called 5 attorneys before I found Joe. He was so thorough and tenacious. I will forever be indebted to this man. He went above and beyond for me. You won't be disappointed if you use him! He's the best!!
Rachel M.
Yelp Review
Mr. Lopez came highly recommended to me by a friend. He had open communication with me throughout the process and in the end got me what I deserve. If you want a hardworking, attentive, and knowledgeable lawyer, Mr Lopez is the lawyer for you!
Matthew R.
Google Review
Joe Lopez is [by] far the best attorney I have ever worked with. He defines tenacious! Joe worked on my case as if it was his own. It's a great feeling knowing your attorney truly had your best interests in mind, and fights for you with all he has.
Bren S.
Google Review
I can't say enough positive things about Joe Lopez. I called 5 attorneys before I found Joe. He was so thorough and tenacious. I will forever be indebted to this man. He went above and beyond for me. You won't be disappointed if you use him! He's the best!!
Rachel M.
Yelp Review
Mr. Lopez came highly recommended to me by a friend. He had open communication with me throughout the process and in the end got me what I deserve. If you want a hardworking, attentive, and knowledgeable lawyer, Mr Lopez is the lawyer for you!
Matthew R.
Google Review
Joe Lopez is [by] far the best attorney I have ever worked with. He defines tenacious! Joe worked on my case as if it was his own. It's a great feeling knowing your attorney truly had your best interests in mind, and fights for you with all he has.
Bren S.
Google Review
I can't say enough positive things about Joe Lopez. I called 5 attorneys before I found Joe. He was so thorough and tenacious. I will forever be indebted to this man. He went above and beyond for me. You won't be disappointed if you use him! He's the best!!
Rachel M.
Yelp Review
Mr. Lopez came highly recommended to me by a friend. He had open communication with me throughout the process and in the end got me what I deserve. If you want a hardworking, attentive, and knowledgeable lawyer, Mr Lopez is the lawyer for you!
Matthew R.
Google Review
Joe Lopez is [by] far the best attorney I have ever worked with. He defines tenacious! Joe worked on my case as if it was his own. It's a great feeling knowing your attorney truly had your best interests in mind, and fights for you with all he has.
Bren S.
Google Review
I can't say enough positive things about Joe Lopez. I called 5 attorneys before I found Joe. He was so thorough and tenacious. I will forever be indebted to this man. He went above and beyond for me. You won't be disappointed if you use him! He's the best!!
Rachel M.
Yelp Review
Mr. Lopez came highly recommended to me by a friend. He had open communication with me throughout the process and in the end got me what I deserve. If you want a hardworking, attentive, and knowledgeable lawyer, Mr Lopez is the lawyer for you!
Matthew R.
Google Review
Joe Lopez is [by] far the best attorney I have ever worked with. He defines tenacious! Joe worked on my case as if it was his own. It's a great feeling knowing your attorney truly had your best interests in mind, and fights for you with all he has.
We maximize your recovery with each & every case we handle
Joe Lopez Law
Austin, Texas Car Accident Attorney
Attorney Joe Lopez has years of experience in helping his clients receive the compensation they deserve for traumatic injuries. Joe Lopez has geared his practice to helping those who have been injured by the negligence of others. Devastating accidents happen on a daily basis, but these accidents should not ruin your life.
Joe Lopez has helped many central Texans in car accident cases from beginning to end. He has fought against insurance companies to make sure his clients receive the protection they are entitled to. Insurance companies are often hesitant to pay out large sums to injured clients. They even attempt to bully the victims into signing a document which provides them with only a fraction of the compensation they are entitled to.
Joe Lopez will ensure that no one attempts to force you to sign any documentation that could prevent any further litigation.
Why Joe Lopez Law can help you
THESE TYPES OF INJURIES can result in the occurance of a truck accident.
Broken Bones or Severe Fractures
Broken or fractured bones are a common outcome in Texas 18-wheeler accidents. While human bones are strong, they can only endure so much force. In a high-impact collision, the strength of the impact can overwhelm the bone's resistance, leading to fractures or breaks.
Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Head injuries, from mild concussions to serious traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), frequently happen in collisions. These often result when the head strikes part of the vehicle, or even from the force of an airbag deploying. The high-impact nature of a crash can make head and brain injuries a serious risk.
Loss of Limb
In especially severe semi-truck accidents, victims can lose limbs due to being trapped or crushed. These injuries sometimes require partial or full amputations, forever changing the victim's life.
Back and Neck Injuries
Back and neck injuries often leave victims with intense, lasting pain. Some injuries are minor, like whiplash or neck strain, while others are more serious, involving issues like spinal dislocations, disc replacements, fractures, and sprains, all of which can significantly impact daily life.
Paralysis and Spinal Cord Injury
Spinal cord injuries result in a loss of sensation or motor control, depending on where the damage occurs. Common spinal cord injuries include herniated discs, torn ligaments, crushed vertebrae, and fractured spines, each carrying a risk of permanent effects.
Serious Burns
Burns are common in semi-truck accidents, particularly in Eagle Ford, where friction or contact with the road can cause first, second, or third-degree burns. Oil fires also pose a major risk for serious burn injuries.
Joe Lopez Knows Semi-Truck Laws
Trucking and insurance company defense lawyers act quickly to minimize their clients' liability, often challenging evidence right away. That’s why it’s essential to contact our office as soon as possible after an accident. As experienced personal injury attorneys, we are dedicated to building a strong case for you. We will document your medical costs, investigate all aspects of the accident, and work tirelessly to preserve evidence. Hiring an accident attorney early is crucial to protecting and strengthening your case.
Both Texas and federal laws require semi-truck drivers to go through extensive training and meet certain qualifications. These laws also regulate driver working hours, vehicle repairs, maintenance, inspections, and insurance. However, these rules aren’t always followed as strictly as they should be.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) apply to all commercial vehicles involved in interstate commerce, under 49 C.F.R. §§ 350-399. These regulations include specific rules on drug testing, requiring commercial truck drivers to be tested for drugs before employment and immediately following any accident (49 C.F.R. § 382).
Anyone driving a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) in interstate, foreign, or intrastate commerce, with few exceptions, must have a commercial driver’s license (49 C.F.R. § 383).
Federal laws also set strict limits on how long truck drivers can be on the road:
Drivers may not drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
Drivers cannot drive after reaching the 14th hour from the start of their shift (with some exceptions).
Drivers must not exceed 60 hours of work in a 7-day period or 70 hours in an 8-day period.
After reaching these limits, drivers must take at least 34 consecutive hours off before resuming.
Passenger-carrying commercial vehicle drivers face even stricter limits:
They may drive a maximum of 10 hours following 8 consecutive hours off duty.
They cannot drive beyond the 15th hour on duty after 8 hours off (49 C.F.R. § 395.5).
These laws aim to ensure the safety of both the drivers and others on the road by reducing the risk of accidents related to driver fatigue.
Why It Is Important To Contact An Attorney
When it comes to truck accident cases, identifying who is responsible is essential. Liability in a semi-truck accident can often be complex, with several parties potentially at fault:
The Trucking Company: Typically, the trucking company that owns the truck is liable.
Freight Owner: In some cases, the company that owns the freight being transported can also bear responsibility.
The Truck Driver: While the driver may share some liability, they often lack the financial resources to cover extensive damages.
The Employer: Employers are accountable for accidents caused by their employees while on the job.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in the Eagle Ford Shale area, reach out to attorney Joe Lopez. With years of experience in helping clients secure the compensation they deserve, Joe Lopez is here to assist you. Call us today at (512) 580-9962.
Practice Areas
Personal injury is the wrongful injury of one person through the negligence or carelessness of another individual. We have successfully represented victims of traffic accidents, workplace accidents, and many other types of accidents.
