When winter weather hits Texas, icy roads can turn everyday drives into dangerous situations—especially when large commercial trucks are involved. Even a thin layer of ice can make an 18-wheeler impossible to control, putting everyone on the road at risk.
At Vice Henley & Dilbeck, we’ve seen how winter storms across East Texas—especially around Royse City, Forney, Greenville, and Rockwall—can lead to devastating truck and car accidents. Understanding who’s responsible when icy roads lead to collisions can make all the difference if you’re injured in one.
How Winter Weather Impacts Truck Safety
Texas weather can be unpredictable. One day it’s clear and sunny; the next, bridges and overpasses are covered in ice. For commercial truck drivers, those changes create serious safety challenges.
While most professional drivers are trained to handle difficult conditions, trucking companies still have a duty to operate safely. That means maintaining their vehicles, planning routes responsibly, and instructing drivers to slow down—or stop driving entirely—when roads become unsafe.
Here are a few ways icy roads contribute to truck accidents:
- Reduced Traction: Semi-trucks weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making it nearly impossible to stop quickly on slick roads. Even small patches of ice can cause jackknife or rollover crashes.
- Poor Visibility: Winter storms often bring fog and freezing rain. Reduced visibility means drivers may not see hazards—or stopped vehicles—until it’s too late.
- Driver Fatigue and Pressure: Truckers often face tight delivery schedules. When bad weather hits, some feel pressured to keep driving, even when conditions are unsafe.
Who’s Liable for Truck Accidents on Icy Texas Roads?
Determining fault in a weather-related truck accident isn’t always simple. While ice may have contributed to the crash, that doesn’t automatically mean no one is responsible.
In Texas, liability often depends on whether the driver or trucking company acted reasonably under the circumstances. For example:
- Trucking Companies: If a company failed to monitor weather reports or forced drivers to stay on schedule despite dangerous road conditions, they may be held responsible.
- Truck Drivers: If a driver was speeding, following too closely, or failed to slow down on icy roads, they may be liable for negligence.
- Vehicle Maintenance Providers: In some cases, a maintenance failure—such as worn tires or faulty brakes—can play a role in winter weather crashes.
An experienced attorney can investigate the cause of the crash, collect black box data, review maintenance records, and determine who should be held accountable.
Steps to Take After a Winter Truck Accident
If you’re involved in a crash during icy conditions, your safety comes first. Here’s what to do after an accident:
- Call 911 Immediately – Report the accident and request medical assistance, even if injuries seem minor.
- Stay Safe at the Scene – Move to a safe area if possible and avoid standing near traffic.
- Document Everything – Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and weather.
- Gather Information – Get the truck driver’s name, company, license plate, and insurance details.
- Contact a Lawyer – A Texas truck accident attorney can help preserve evidence and deal with the trucking company’s insurer.
Texas Injury Giants — Standing Tall After Winter Accidents
Winter in East Texas can be unpredictable, but your legal rights shouldn’t be. If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial truck accident caused by icy roads or unsafe driving, Texas Injury Giants is ready to stand tall for you.
Royse City Trucking Accidents Attorneys
Our attorneys have extensive experience investigating weather-related truck crashes, negotiating with insurance companies, and fighting for maximum compensation. We proudly serve Royse City, Forney, Greenville, Rockwall, and communities throughout East Texas.
Don’t face the insurance giants alone. Contact Vice Henley & Dilbeck today at (469) 331-3719 for a free consultation and speak directly with an attorney who will fight for your recovery and your peace of mind.