Smith County, TX (July 25, 2025) – A significant crash involving an 18-wheeler halted all westbound traffic on Interstate 20 on Wednesday afternoon, causing extended backups and rerouting efforts throughout Smith County.
The wreck happened on July 23 just west of State Highway 155. According to the Smith County Sheriff’s Office, a major crash blocked all westbound lanes of I-20 after a semi-truck came to rest across the roadway. The blockage forced authorities to divert traffic onto State Highway 155, which led to severe congestion stretching back toward U.S. Highway 271. Emergency medical services were dispatched to assess injuries at the scene. Several individuals were evaluated, and those in need of additional treatment were transported to nearby hospitals for further care. The exact number of people hurt in the crash has not been confirmed, but multiple ambulances responded to assist those affected. Authorities worked quickly to manage the traffic and clear the crash scene, but motorists were urged to seek alternate routes. The investigation into the cause of the crash remains ongoing, and officials have not released details on whether any citations or charges are expected.
We hope everyone injured in this crash recovers fully and quickly.
Truck Accidents in Texas
Truck-related crashes in Texas often lead to serious road disruptions and severe injuries. With thousands of commercial vehicles moving across the state every day, the risk of high-impact wrecks involving 18-wheelers remains significant. According to state data, more than 38,000 crashes involving commercial trucks occurred on Texas roads in 2023 alone.
Understanding what often leads to these collisions helps clarify how they can be prevented. Below are a few important facts about common causes:
- Driver Fatigue: Long-haul truck drivers often spend hours behind the wheel with little rest. Even with strict regulations in place, fatigue remains a leading cause of 18-wheeler crashes.
- Improper Lane Changes: Large trucks have extended blind spots and require more space to change lanes. Sudden lane shifts without proper visibility can endanger surrounding vehicles.
- Cargo Shifts: When freight isn’t loaded properly, it can shift during transport. That imbalance can lead to rollovers or jackknife incidents on highways.
- Mechanical Failures: Worn-out brakes, tire blowouts, or steering issues can all contribute to unexpected truck crashes—especially at high speeds.
- Speeding: Many truck drivers are under pressure to meet delivery schedules. When they speed, stopping distances increase, putting nearby drivers at greater risk.
- Distracted Driving: Like any driver, truck operators can be distracted by phones, GPS, or dispatch systems—split-second distractions can cause major harm.
If you’ve been hurt in a truck crash, it’s vital to act quickly. Call our Smith County truck accident attorney. Gathering evidence early, including trucking logs and vehicle data, can make all the difference. Our team understands the unique challenges of pursuing legal action against trucking companies and can guide you through the process to protect your rights and your recovery.
At The McGuire Firm, we’ve handled thousands of cases for people hurt in accidents throughout East Texas—including those involving 18-wheelers. We’ve seen firsthand how overwhelming these wrecks can be, and we’re here to support you through it. Our fee structure means you don’t pay unless we win. With experience on both the plaintiff and insurance defense sides, we know what it takes to fight for your future. Call our team today at (903) 630-7154 to schedule your free consultation. We’re ready to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
