Semi-trucks play a critical role in transporting goods and livestock across the country, but when they are involved in crashes, the results can be devastating. A recent accident in East Texas involving a cattle truck highlights the dangers these vehicles pose not only to their drivers but also to other motorists on the road.
What Happened
According to KLTV, a semi-truck transporting cattle crashed into an abandoned car on Interstate 20 near Van Zandt County. The collision caused the truck to overturn, scattering livestock across the roadway and leading to lane closures while crews worked to contain the animals and clear the scene. Authorities reported that the driver was injured and transported to the hospital, though no fatalities were confirmed. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Can the Driver Be Held Liable?
In Texas, liability for livestock-related truck accidents depends on the circumstances. If the semi-truck driver was speeding, distracted, or fatigued, they could be held responsible for the crash. However, in this case, the abandoned vehicle on the highway raises questions about who created the dangerous condition. If the vehicle was improperly left on the roadway, liability may fall on the vehicle’s owner. Trucking companies may also share liability if maintenance issues, training deficiencies, or pressure to meet deadlines played a role in the collision.
The Dangers of Overturned Livestock Trucks
Crashes involving trucks that carry animals are particularly hazardous. Not only can the collisions injure drivers and passengers, but loose livestock on busy highways creates an additional threat for other motorists. Cattle can weigh more than 1,000 pounds, and when frightened or injured, they may wander into traffic, creating a risk of secondary crashes. Responders must balance public safety with the urgent need to contain the animals.
How Insurance Complicates These Crashes
Livestock truck accidents often involve multiple layers of insurance coverage. A trucking company may carry commercial liability insurance, while the livestock itself may be insured separately. If another party—such as the owner of the abandoned vehicle—shares fault, their insurer could also be implicated. Sorting out responsibility between these policies is rarely straightforward, and victims may face delays in recovering compensation for medical bills, property damage, and lost wages.
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The Role of Federal and State Regulations
Commercial trucking is subject to strict safety regulations under both federal and state law. Drivers must comply with hours-of-service rules, weight limits, and cargo safety requirements. In livestock transport, additional rules may apply regarding animal welfare. If investigators find that regulations were violated, that evidence could strengthen a personal injury or wrongful death claim against the trucking company.
Why These Cases Are Complex
Crashes like this one involve multiple factors: the actions of the truck driver, the role of the abandoned vehicle, the conditions of the highway, and the responsibilities of the trucking company. Determining liability requires reviewing accident reports, driver logs, maintenance records, and surveillance footage. With multiple parties and insurers involved, pursuing compensation is often challenging without experienced legal help.
Talk to an Experienced Attorney
Accidents like this highlight the devastating consequences when animals and vehicles collide. For families facing medical bills, lost income, or the loss of a loved one, understanding legal rights is essential.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a livestock-related accident, contact Silva Injury Law today for a free consultation.
