In Need of an Oversized Load Accident Lawyer in San Antonio?
Oversized load trucks are crucial to the Texas economy, transporting a wide range of goods, including heavy equipment and industrial machinery. However, the consequences can be devastating when these massive vehicles are not correctly loaded, permitted, or operated. At the Hollingsworth Law Firm, our San Antonio oversized load accident lawyers are committed to helping victims and their families recover compensation after serious truck collisions involving wide loads or lost cargo.
With decades of combined experience handling complex trucking accident cases, our legal team understands the regulations governing oversized loads and how violations often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. If you or someone you love has been hurt in a lost or oversized load truck accident, contact our San Antonio oversized load accident attorneys today for a free consultation.
What is an Oversized Load?
An oversized load refers to any vehicle or cargo that exceeds the standard legal dimensions set by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) or the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This can include:
- Widths over 8 feet 6 inches
- Heights exceeding 13 feet 6 inches
- Lengths over 65 feet for single vehicles
- Loads heavier than standard axle weight limits
These vehicles require permits and routing, pilot cars, and additional signage, and they often must avoid traveling during peak traffic. Failure to follow these guidelines can make them a danger on San Antonio highways, such as I-10, Loop 410, and US-90.
Oversized Load Accident Statistics and Legal Landscape in San Antonio, TX
Oversized load accidents in San Antonio increased by 22% since 2023, with 87 reported incidents primarily occurring on I-35, I-10, and Loop 410. These accidents most frequently occur in construction zones, underpasses, and bridge crossings, with 65% involving commercial haulers transporting construction equipment, manufactured homes, or industrial components.
Morning rush hours (6-9 AM) exhibit the highest incident rates, likely due to permit restrictions that limit movement during other periods. Texas Transportation Code Section 623 requires permits with specific route requirements, escort vehicles, and time restrictions. Additionally, San Antonio imposes municipal regulations, including designated routes that avoid downtown and historic areas.
Bexar County court decisions have established broader liability beyond drivers, including permit, route planners, and escort operators. Insurance requirements for oversized transporters include a minimum liability coverage of $1 million, with average injury claims ranging from $125,000 to $300,000.
San Antonio has implemented enhanced enforcement at key checkpoints, which has resulted in a 15% increase in permit violations detected before potential incidents occur.
Common Causes of Oversized Load Accidents
Oversized load trucking is regulated because the dangers of mishandling these massive vehicles are immense. At Hollingsworth Law Firm, our oversized load accident attorneys in San Antonio have handled numerous cases where negligence was a clear contributing factor. Common causes include:
- Improperly secured cargo: If cargo shifts or breaks loose, it can cause the driver to lose control or the load to fall onto the roadway.
- Inadequate route planning: Oversized loads must avoid narrow roads, low bridges, and steep grades, which often leads to dangerous detours.
- Driver fatigue or error: Truck drivers may become exhausted, especially when maneuvering large loads under pressure or deadlines.
- Lack of escort vehicles: Sometimes, wide-load trucks must travel with escort vehicles to help manage traffic. Failure to comply can create serious hazards.
- Speeding or braking errors: Oversized trucks require longer stopping distances. Speeding or sudden braking can cause jackknifing or rear-end crashes.
Injuries Common in Oversized Load Accidents
Due to the sheer size and force involved, oversized load truck accidents in San Antonio often lead to severe or even fatal injuries. Victims in passenger vehicles are particularly vulnerable. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Crushed limbs or amputations
- Severe burns
- Internal organ damage
- Multiple fractures
- Wrongful death
If you or a family member has suffered one of these life-altering injuries, it’s critical to work with an oversized load accident lawyer who understands how to value your claim entirely.
Who Can Be Held Liable in an Oversized Load Truck Accident?
Unlike standard car crashes, oversized load accidents often involve multiple parties. Potentially liable parties include:
- Truck driver – if they acted recklessly or violated hours-of-service regulations.
- Trucking company – for inadequate training, negligent hiring, or poor maintenance.
- Loading company – if the cargo was not secured properly or exceeded weight limits.
- Escort vehicle operators for failing to manage traffic safely.
- Third-party contractors, such as logistics firms or maintenance providers.
- Manufacturers – if a truck or safety equipment defect contributed to the crash.
A skilled San Antonio oversized load accident attorney from Hollingsworth Law Firm can identify all liable entities and pursue maximum compensation from each.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
After an oversized load truck accident, victims may be eligible for several forms of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses (Past and Future): Covers hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, medication, and any future treatment needed for ongoing or long-term injuries.
- Lost Wages and Future Earning Capacity: This compensation program compensates for time missed at work and reduced ability to earn income due to lasting impairments or disabilities.
- Pain and Suffering: Accounts for physical pain, emotional distress, mental anguish, and overall decline in quality of life caused by the accident.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Applies when injuries prevent victims from participating in hobbies, activities, or everyday routines they once enjoyed.
- Permanent Disability: Provides compensation for life-altering conditions that limit mobility, require long-term care, or lead to permanent physical or cognitive impairment.
- Wrongful Death (If Applicable): Supports surviving family members with funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and future financial support after a loved one’s death.
Our San Antonio oversized load accident lawyers partner with medical, vocational, and economic ensure your claim reflects the full scope of your losses.
Why Hire Hollingsworth Law Firm?
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, our legal team has earned a reputation as top truck accident attorneys in San Antonio. We understand the trucking regulations, state and federal oversight, and tactics large insurers use to undervalue claims regarding oversized load cases.
Here’s why accident victims across San Antonio trust us:
- Proven Truck Accident Experience: We’ve successfully handled numerous high-stakes truck crash claims, including those involving oversized and wide-load carriers.
- Aggressive Negotiators & Trial Lawyers: We’re not afraid to take your case to trial. Our firm prepares every case for court to ensure we’re ready for any outcome.
- No Fees Unless We Win: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation on your behalf.
- Local Knowledge, Statewide Reach: Based in San Antonio, we are familiar with the local highways, trucking corridors, and court systems, providing you with a competitive edge in litigation.
Contact a San Antonio Oversized Load Accident Attorney Today
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, we believe every victim deserves justice. If you’ve been injured due to an oversized load truck accident in San Antonio, don’t face the trucking company or insurers alone.
Contact us at 210-361-3655 today for a free, no-obligation consultation with our experienced San Antonio oversized load accident lawyers. We’re ready to fight for you and don’t get paid unless you do.
