Smith County, TX (July 14, 2025) – Traffic was heavily impacted on Monday, July 14, after an 18-wheeler overturned on Interstate 20 eastbound just before Farm to Market Road 14 near mile marker 562. The accident happened during the morning hours and led to the closure of the outside lane as emergency crews worked to manage the cleanup and clear debris scattered along the interstate.
According to reports from officials with the Texas Department of Public Safety, the big rig overturned following a motor vehicle accident involving an unknown number of additional cars. At least one person was reportedly injured and received treatment at the scene before being taken to a nearby hospital for further care. The incident caused significant delays for eastbound drivers as traffic was redirected into remaining lanes. Clean-up crews and tow trucks spent several hours working to upright the semi-truck and remove spilled cargo from the road.
Law enforcement has not released any details yet about the truck’s cargo or the driver’s condition. Authorities remind drivers traveling through Smith County to reduce speed and use caution, especially around active cleanup zones and work crews. Investigators continue to review possible causes, including speed, driver fatigue, or mechanical failure, to determine what led to the truck tipping over on the busy stretch of Interstate 20.
We hope the injured parties recover quickly from this crash.
Truck Accidents in Texas
Across Texas, thousands of commercial vehicles travel highways every day, delivering goods and supplies. Unfortunately, the size and weight of these trucks mean that when an accident occurs, the damage can be severe. Statistics show that commercial truck accidents continue to be a leading cause of major traffic delays and injuries on Texas roadways. Staying alert, giving large trucks plenty of space, and being patient in work zones can help prevent these types of crashes.
It’s important to be aware of what often contributes to truck-related crashes. Here are some common issues:
- Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers frequently face long hours behind the wheel. Fatigue can slow reaction times and lead to devastating rollovers, jackknifes, or rear-end collisions. Federal regulations limit hours but violations still happen.
- Improperly Secured Cargo: An unbalanced or poorly secured load can shift during transit, causing the truck to tip over. This can be especially dangerous on curves or during sudden stops. Regular inspections and proper loading help prevent these incidents.
- Mechanical Failures: Blown tires, brake failure, or steering issues can all result in loss of control. Routine maintenance is critical to ensure these big rigs remain safe on the road. Unfortunately, not all companies prioritize proper upkeep.
- Driver Inexperience: Handling an 18-wheeler takes training and skill. Drivers who are new or underqualified may struggle with difficult road conditions, leading to preventable accidents.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a commercial vehicle crash, do not wait to get experienced help. Reach out to a trusted Tyler truck accident attorney today. Our Tyler truck accident attorneys know how to gather key evidence, stand up to large trucking companies, and fight for your full recovery. Getting help early makes a big difference in building your claim and protecting your future.
At The McGuire Firm, we know how stressful a serious truck wreck can be for you and your family. With decades of combined experience, we’ve helped East Texans move forward with confidence after life-changing collisions. We offer free consultations, and if we don’t win your case, you don’t owe us a thing. Let us put our knowledge to work for you. Call our Tyler truck accident attorneys at (903) 630-7154 today. We are ready to listen, guide you through your options, and help you fight for every dollar you deserve. Don’t wait to protect yourself and your family’s future.
