Tyler, TX (June 9, 2025) – A crash involving a commercial van and an 18-wheeler brought morning traffic to a standstill on Gentry Parkway near Van Highway in Tyler around 8:30 a.m. on Monday, June 9.
Initial reports indicate that the two vehicles collided in the eastbound lanes during a period of heavy traffic. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as the van appeared to be heavily damaged, while the front section of the 18-wheeler sustained visible impact. Emergency crews responded quickly to assess the situation and assist victims.
At least one person was hurt in the accident. Paramedics rendered care at the scene before transporting the injured to a local hospital for additional treatment. Authorities from the Tyler Police Department remain on the scene to gather evidence and determine the sequence of events that led to the crash. While the area was cleared by late morning, delays impacted commuters for over an hour. Investigators are continuing to evaluate roadway conditions, vehicle positioning, and any surveillance footage available from nearby businesses.
We hope those injured in this accident recover quickly.
Truck Accidents in Texas
Texas leads the nation in the number of large truck accidents each year. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, thousands of accidents involving commercial vehicles occur annually, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. The combination of long-haul trucking routes, high traffic volumes, and varying road conditions makes Texas particularly vulnerable to these kinds of crashes.
Truck accidents are complex and often involve multiple parties. Here are some common reasons why these crashes occur and how they affect victims:
- Driver Fatigue: Long shifts and tight delivery schedules frequently leave truck drivers exhausted behind the wheel. Fatigue reduces reaction time and impairs judgment, which can be especially dangerous when operating a multi-ton vehicle. Federal regulations limit driving hours, but violations still happen.
- Improper Loading or Cargo Shifts: A poorly secured load can destabilize a truck, especially during sharp turns or sudden stops. These incidents often lead to rollovers or jackknife accidents. Load distribution is critical for maintaining balance and proper control of the vehicle.
- Mechanical Failures: Brake issues, tire blowouts, and engine problems are common culprits. Even minor mechanical problems can escalate into major crashes, especially on highways. Routine maintenance is essential, but lapses in care can put everyone on the road at risk.
- Blind Spots and Merging Risks: Due to their size, trucks have extensive blind spots. Passenger vehicles that linger in these zones are at higher risk of being sideswiped or struck during lane changes. Education about “no zones” can help reduce these types of accidents.
- Inadequate Training or Inexperience: Some commercial drivers hit the road with limited experience handling difficult weather, tight corners, or congested traffic. Comprehensive training helps reduce errors, but shortcuts in certification can lead to tragic consequences.
If you or someone you love has been involved in a crash with a truck or commercial vehicle, reach out to a skilled Tyler truck accident attorney as soon as possible. Speaking with an attorney early can ensure crucial evidence is preserved and legal rights are protected. Our Tyler truck accident attorneys understand how trucking companies and insurers operate—and how to fight for those injured.
After a serious crash, time is critical. The McGuire Firm is ready to take your call. We offer free consultations and never charge unless we win your case. Our team knows how overwhelming it is to be injured and unsure where to turn. We take the legal stress off your plate so you can focus on healing. If you need help after a commercial vehicle crash, contact our Tyler truck accident attorneys today. Early legal guidance makes all the difference in your outcome.
Call The McGuire Firm today at (903) 630-7154 for a free consultation. We have handled over 3,000 cases and recovered millions for injured clients across East Texas. We’ve stood in courtrooms on both sides, and that perspective shapes our results. We only get paid if we win. That’s how committed we are to your recovery. Whether you’re suffering from a car accident or a serious truck collision, our attorneys are here to help you move forward. Let our team be the one that helps you find rest and recovery after the chaos of an accident.
