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.
A truck accident can wreck your life in an instant—piling on injuries, medical bills, and lost income. Joe Lopez Law has recovered over $10 million for Austin victims, fighting negligent drivers and big trucking firms.*
18-Wheeler Accidents: Deadly Risks on Austin’s Roads
In Austin and across Texas, 18-wheelers are the lifeblood of commerce, hauling goods along I-35 and beyond. But these giants—often weighing 80,000 pounds—bring serious dangers. In 2023, Texas saw 614 fatal crashes involving commercial vehicles like 18-wheelers, a sharp rise from prior years, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. These accidents are often deadlier than car crashes, with smaller vehicle drivers facing the worst outcomes. Inexperienced drivers, blind spots, fatigue, or stormy weather can turn a routine drive into a tragedy. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration sets strict safety rules, but violations persist. As a proud Austin-based firm, Joe Lopez Law knows our local roads and fights for victims of 18-wheeler accidents to secure the compensation they deserve.
Severe Injuries from 18-Wheeler Accidents in Austin
An 18-wheeler crash can change your life in an instant, especially on Austin’s busy I-35 corridor. These massive trucks cause devastating injuries, with 82% of fatalities impacting smaller vehicle occupants, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In Texas, 18-wheeler accidents frequently result in:
Broken bones and fractures
Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
Severe burns, especially in Eagle Ford Shale crashes
Internal organ damage
Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
Nerve damage
Loss of limb
Back and neck injuries, including whiplash
These injuries often mean long hospital stays, soaring medical bills, and months—or years—away from work. As Austin’s trusted truck accident firm, Joe Lopez Law leverages decades of experience to fight for compensation covering medical costs, lost income, and emotional suffering. Joe understands Texas trucking laws and local crash trends, ensuring you get the justice you deserve.
Semi-Truck Laws and Liability in Texas
Semi-truck crashes in Austin and Texas involve strict regulations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires commercial driver’s licenses (49 C.F.R. § 383), post-accident drug tests (49 C.F.R. § 382), and an 11-hour driving limit after 10 hours off (49 C.F.R. § 395). Texas mandates rigorous training and insurance. Yet, violations drive accidents—614 fatal commercial vehicle crashes hit Texas in 2023, per the Texas Department of Transportation. Liability may involve trucking companies, freight owners, drivers, or employers, complicating claims. Joe Lopez Law, an Austin-based firm, expertly navigates these laws to hold negligent parties accountable, ensuring justice for victims.
Experienced Trucking Accident Attorney in Austin, TX
An 18-wheeler accident can turn your world upside down, leaving you with overwhelming injuries, emotional trauma, and an uncertain future. Don’t face this battle alone—turn to Joe Lopez, a seasoned Austin attorney with a passion for holding negligent trucking companies accountable. With decades of experience and a relentless drive to win, Joe will guide you through the legal maze to reclaim your life. Call our Austin office now at 512-580-9962 for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice.
Why Hire Joe Lopez Law?
If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident, Joe Lopez Law is your trusted partner to seek justice and fair compensation. With over 15 years as a Board-Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer, Joe Lopez offers personalized, expert representation to navigate the complexities of Texas trucking laws. Here’s why you should choose us:
Direct Attorney Access: Work directly with Joe Lopez, not a case manager, ensuring open and honest communication throughout your case.
Proven Expertise: Board-certified with deep knowledge of 18-wheeler accident laws, Joe has a track record of securing maximum compensation for clients.
Client-Centered Approach: He treats you like family, fighting relentlessly against powerful trucking companies to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Free Consultations: Get started with no upfront costs—contact us today to protect your rights.
Swift Action: Joe acts fast to preserve evidence and document costs, countering trucking companies’ defenses.
Truck Accidents in the Eagle Ford Shale: What You Need to Know
The Eagle Ford Shale (EFS), a 400-mile oil and gas region stretching from Leon County to the Mexican border, has transformed South Texas with economic growth. However, the boom in drilling and fracking has led to a surge in truck accidents, particularly in counties like McMullen, 60 miles south of San Antonio. At Joe Lopez Law, we help victims of these crashes seek justice and compensation.
Why Are Truck Accidents Rising in the Eagle Ford Shale?
Heavy truck traffic from oil and gas operations has strained South Texas roads, many of which were built for light vehicles, not tractor-trailers or tankers. Key factors driving accidents include:
Driver Fatigue: Oilfield workers often face 12-hour shifts, leading to exhaustion. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) warns that drowsy driving impairs reaction times, similar to alcohol.
Crowded Roads: Narrow, two-lane highways are overwhelmed by commercial vehicles hauling water, supplies, and crude oil.
High-Pressure Schedules: Tight deadlines push drivers to speed or drive recklessly, increasing crash risks.
The Impact of EFS Truck Accidents
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) reports a significant rise in commercial vehicle crashes in EFS counties, with rural areas like McMullen and urban hubs like Austin seeing increased incidents. These accidents often result in serious injuries or fatalities due to the size and weight of trucks.
Types of Trucks in Accidents: Know the Terms
Truck accidents involve various large vehicles, each with distinct names that you may hear after a collision. At Joe Lopez Law, we handle cases involving all types of commercial trucks, ensuring you understand the terminology when seeking justice. Common terms include:
Semi-Truck: A truck with a cab (tractor) pulling a detachable trailer, often used for long-haul freight.
18-Wheeler: A semi-truck with 18 wheels, typically referring to large tractor-trailers carrying heavy loads.
Tractor-Trailer: Another name for a semi-truck, emphasizing the tractor unit and attached trailer.
Big Rig: A colloquial term for large trucks, like semi-trucks or 18-wheelers, known for their size and power.
Single-Unit Truck: A truck without a trailer, such as a box truck or dump truck, often used for local deliveries.
Regardless of the name, these vehicles—often weighing over 10,000 pounds—pose significant risks on the road due to their size and weight. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, Joe Lopez brings decades of experience to fight for your rights.
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 is a distinguished trial attorney with over 20 years of experience, excelling in catastrophic truck accidents, spinal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. A native of El Paso, Texas, he founded Joe Lopez Law in Austin in 2015. His impressive track record includes a $1.5 million settlement for a client injured by an 18-wheeler and a $1 million recovery for another truck crash victim. Recognized as a Super Lawyer and a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, Joe collaborates with leading experts to craft compelling cases.
Fluent in Spanish and English, Joe builds strong connections with clients, ensuring dedicated representation. Beyond the courtroom, he is an active Austin community member, cherishing time with his family and their Bracco Italiano bird dog. Whether driving his 1977 Ford Bronco or fishing with his son, Joe’s passion for life matches his commitment to justice, making him a trusted advocate for those facing life-altering injuries.
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.
Case Results
See results from a few of our clients
$1.9 Million
Cement Pump Truck Accident
Our client, a construction worker, suffered a broken coccyx when a cement pump truck operator over-pressurized the pump, causing a dangerous hose whip on the job site. Through aggressive representation, we secured a $1.9 million settlement, with our client netting $887,364.07.
$750,000
18-Wheeler Crash
Our client was struck by an 18-wheeler from a local distributor, and the company fought hard to deny the crash ever happened. We uncovered the Lytx dash cam footage, along with driver reprimands, proving their wrongdoing. In depositions, the corporate representative and manager were caught lying. Despite their efforts, we secured a $750,000 policy limit settlement, with our client netting $240,313.41.
$150,000
DUI Accident Victim
Austin man received a net recovery of $76,162.32 when he was rear ended by a drunk driver who was arrested and also admitted to texting while driving. He sustained a cervical herniation. Attorneys Fees were $60,000 and case expenses were $13,837.68.
$1,000,000
Truck Accident Victim
Texas man received a net recovery of $1,000,000. Client was hit by an oil water disposal 18-wheeler in the eagle ford shale. Liability was highly contested by the Oil Company. Client sustained a torn shoulder, mTBI and injured knee.
$100,000
Car Accident Victim
Austin man's net recovery of $50,422.07 after a "t-bone" collision with a young lady who ran a stop sign. Insurance company denied liability at the onset. A temporary restraining order was acquired by Joe Lopez and subsequently had the vehicle inspected. Client sustained a sternum fracture.
$150,000
DUI Accident Victim
Austin man received a net recovery of $76,162.32 when he was rear ended by a drunk driver who was arrested and also admitted to texting while driving. He sustained a cervical herniation. Attorneys Fees were $60,000 and case expenses were $13,837.68.
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.