Trucking Accidents in Texas and House Bill 19: What Injury Victims Should Know
December 15, 2025 - Personal Injury
Trucking accidents in Texas often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. When an 18-wheeler or other commercial truck is involved in a crash, the consequences can be life-changing for victims and their families.
Recent changes to Texas law, including House Bill 19 (HB 19), have impacted how trucking accident cases are handled in court. If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident, it’s important to understand how this law may affect your claim—and why experienced legal representation matters.
At Reyna Law Firm, we represent Texans injured in serious trucking accidents and fight to hold negligent drivers and trucking companies accountable.
📞 Call us 24/7 or Schedule a Free Consultation today.
Trucking Accidents Are a Serious Problem in Texas
Texas leads the nation in commercial truck traffic, particularly across major highways and in oilfield regions. With that traffic comes increased risk. Common causes of trucking accidents include:
- Driver fatigue
- Distracted or impaired driving
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Improperly secured cargo
- Inadequate driver training
- Speeding and unsafe driving practices
These crashes often leave victims facing significant medical bills, lost income, and long-term physical limitations.
What Is House Bill 19?
House Bill 19 is a Texas law that changes how commercial truck accident cases are presented to juries. The law allows trucking companies to request that trials be divided into separate phases, focusing first on the truck driver’s actions before addressing the trucking company’s conduct.
While HB 19 does not eliminate an injured person’s right to compensation, it can make trucking accident cases more complex and more challenging to pursue without skilled legal guidance.
How HB 19 Affects Truck Accident Claims
Under House Bill 19:
- Cases may be split into multiple phases at trial
- Evidence related to a trucking company’s policies or safety record may be limited initially
- Trucking companies may gain procedural advantages in litigation
These changes make it especially important for accident victims to work with attorneys who understand how to navigate trucking cases under current Texas law.
Holding Trucking Companies Accountable
Even with House Bill 19 in place, trucking companies can still be held responsible when their negligence contributes to a crash. Liability may extend beyond the driver to include:
- The trucking company
- Freight brokers or shippers
- Maintenance providers
- Other third parties involved in unsafe operations
Identifying all responsible parties is key to pursuing full and fair compensation.
Compensation After a Texas Trucking Accident
Injured victims may be entitled to recover damages for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Physical impairment
- Property damage
- Wrongful death (for surviving families)
An experienced trucking accident lawyer can evaluate your case and explain your legal options.
Why Choose Reyna Law Firm?
At Reyna Law Firm, we understand the tactics trucking companies and insurers use to limit liability—especially under laws like House Bill 19. We prepare every case with the expectation that it may go to trial and fight for the best possible outcome for our clients.
✔ Focus on serious injury cases
✔ Knowledge of Texas trucking laws
✔ Personalized client representation
✔ No legal fees unless we win
Speak With a Texas Trucking Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident anywhere in Texas, do not wait to seek legal help.
📞 Call Reyna Law Firm 24/7
🗓 Schedule a Free Consultation today
We’re here to protect your rights and help you move forward.
