Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid After a Texas Truck Wreck, According to Semi-Truck Accidents Lawyers

A crash with a semi-truck is unlike any other motor vehicle accident. These collisions often result in devastating injuries, totaled vehicles, and serious emotional trauma. And unlike a typical car crash, the trucking company—and its legal team—is already working behind the scenes to minimize your claim.

At VB Attorneys, our semi-truck accidents lawyers have handled hundreds of truck wreck cases across Texas. We’ve seen it all: victims pressured into lowball settlements, critical evidence lost because of delays, and insurance companies using victims’ own words against them.

If you or someone you love has been in a wreck with an 18-wheeler or other commercial truck, avoiding these five costly mistakes can make a major difference in your recovery and your case.

1. Failing to Call the Police Immediately

After a serious crash, calling 911 might seem obvious. But some truck drivers or even bystanders may suggest “handling it privately” if injuries don’t seem severe. That’s a huge mistake.

A police report is often the first and most important piece of evidence in a truck accident case. It creates a formal record of the wreck, documents the conditions at the scene, includes driver and witness information, and may contain initial assessments of fault.

Without it, it’s your word against theirs—and that gives the trucking company a head start.

For more guidance on the right steps to take after a truck crash, read our detailed post on Our Truck Accident Lawyer's Top 10 Resources for Truck Accident Victims.

2. Talking Too Freely at the Scene—or to the Insurance Company

Truck wrecks are chaotic and emotionally intense. Many victims feel overwhelmed or guilty, and instinctively say things like “I didn’t see him” or “I might have been speeding.” Even these offhand comments can be used to weaken your claim.

Here’s the rule: Say as little as possible. Exchange information with the other driver. Answer the officer’s questions factually. Then stop talking. Absolutely do not discuss the wreck with the trucking company’s insurer.

Their goal is to get a recorded statement that can be twisted against you. And remember, they’re often working for a multi-million-dollar corporation that already has a team of defense lawyers involved.

Instead, speak to a lawyer who knows how to handle these conversations—and protect your rights. Learn more about how our Texas Truck Accidents: Trends and Insights blog explores common defense tactics.

3. Delaying Medical Treatment or Ignoring Follow-Up Care

In the aftermath of a truck crash, your adrenaline is pumping. You may not feel pain until hours or days later. But if you wait to see a doctor, the insurance company may claim your injuries weren’t serious—or were caused by something else entirely.

According to the CDC, symptoms of traumatic brain injuries, internal bleeding, or whiplash can be delayed. Getting checked out early not only protects your health—it also strengthens your legal claim.

Equally important is following your doctor’s orders. Failing to attend follow-up appointments, physical therapy, or other prescribed treatments gives the defense a chance to argue that you weren’t truly injured or didn’t take your recovery seriously.

4. Talking to the Trucking Company or Accepting a Quick Settlement

After the crash, you may get a call from an insurance adjuster offering to “resolve the claim quickly” or asking for a recorded statement. These offers often seem generous—but they’re rarely in your best interest.

Why? Because the true cost of a truck wreck isn’t always clear right away. You may need long-term treatment. You may lose income. You may experience lasting pain or emotional trauma. A quick check won’t begin to cover these damages—and once you accept it, you typically give up your right to pursue more.

Our Deadly 18-Wheeler Accidents: A Reality in West Texas post highlights the long-term impact of truck wrecks.

Our semi-truck accidents lawyers know these tactics all too well. Trucking companies and their insurers are focused on minimizing payouts, not making you whole. With the right legal team on your side, you can level the playing field and demand what you’re truly owed.

5. Waiting Too Long to Hire a Lawyer Who Handles Truck Wreck Cases

Not all personal injury attorneys handle truck accident cases. And not all lawyers understand the federal regulations, black box data, and liability issues unique to commercial trucking. Waiting to involve a qualified attorney can cost you critical evidence—and weaken your case.

Truck crashes often involve:

• Multiple parties (driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, maintenance providers)
  
  
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules and violations
  
  
• Electronic logging devices (ELDs) and black box data that can disappear if not preserved
  
  
• Aggressive defense lawyers who act fast to protect their clients
  
  

According to the FMCSA, Texas ranks among the top states for fatal truck crashes. These are high-stakes cases—and you need a law firm that knows how to take on the trucking industry.

At VB Attorneys, we’ve helped victims and families recover millions of dollars after devastating crashes. We know the process, we know the pressure tactics used by insurers, and we know how to build a powerful case from day one.

You Deserve More Than a Quick Payout. You Deserve Justice.

Don’t let a trucking company or insurance adjuster decide what your case is worth. The days and weeks after a truck wreck are critical—and avoiding the mistakes outlined above can protect your health, your finances, and your future.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a truck wreck in Texas, our semi-truck accidents lawyers are ready to help. We offer free consultations and take truck accident cases on a contingency basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win.

Contact VB Attorneys today to speak directly with a member of our legal team. We’re here to listen, to fight for you, and to hold the responsible parties accountable.