Smith County, TX (June 3, 2025) – A collision involving an 18-wheeler created major traffic delays Tuesday morning in Smith County. The accident was reported around 8:30 a.m. on June 3, along the eastbound lanes of Interstate 20 before FM 849.
Crews with the Texas Department of Public Safety arrived swiftly on scene to manage the crash site. Although details are still limited, at least one injury was reported. Emergency responders provided medical attention to the injured before arranging transport to a nearby hospital for further treatment.
The collision caused significant traffic backups in the area, with lanes temporarily blocked as officials worked to remove the disabled 18-wheeler and clear the debris. Drivers were urged to seek alternate routes to avoid extended delays. Investigators are currently gathering evidence and speaking with those involved to better understand how the accident occurred. Further information is expected once the investigation concludes.
We hope those injured in this accident recover quickly.
Truck Accidents in Texas
Texas consistently ranks among the states with the highest number of large truck accidents. In 2023 alone, thousands of crashes involving commercial vehicles were reported statewide. With Texas being a hub for interstate commerce, heavy truck traffic on highways like I-20 is a daily reality.
Truck accidents differ from standard car crashes for several reasons. Here’s what makes these incidents particularly serious:
- Size and Weight Disparity: An 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. The sheer size difference between a truck and a passenger vehicle means collisions often result in severe injuries or fatalities for those in smaller cars.
- Longer Stopping Distances: Trucks require much more distance to come to a complete stop compared to smaller vehicles. In sudden traffic changes or emergency situations, this increased stopping distance can lead to crashes if proper following distances aren’t maintained.
- Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often work long hours under tight schedules, which can lead to fatigue. Even with regulations limiting driving hours, fatigue remains a major contributor to truck accidents across Texas highways.
- Cargo-Related Issues: Improperly secured or overloaded cargo can shift during transit, destabilizing the truck and leading to accidents. Regular inspections and adherence to weight limits are critical for preventing these dangers.
If you’ve been hurt in a truck crash, it’s important to contact a Smith County truck accident attorney immediately. Truck accidents involve complex regulations and multiple liable parties, making experienced legal guidance crucial for securing fair compensation. Acting swiftly protects your rights and strengthens your case.
At The McGuire Firm, we provide free consultations to those injured in truck accidents. Our team has decades of combined experience handling complex injury cases and understands the challenges accident victims face. We only get paid if we win your case—no upfront fees. Call us at (903) 630-7154 today. Let us help you move forward with the support and guidance you deserve.