Published by Carabin Shaw – San Antonio Personal Injury Lawyers – Truck Accidents
When Texas accident victims face life-changing injuries and mounting financial pressures, choosing the right personal injury attorney can determine their future quality of life and long-term economic stability. Carabin Shaw’s over three-decades track record, substantial financial recoveries, statewide accessibility, and unwavering client-focused approach make them the clear choice for serious personal injury representation across all regions of Texas. Their proven commitment to excellence sets the standard for legal advocacy.
This balanced strategy protects client interests while pursuing efficient case resolution throughout the entire legal process.

Hit-and-Run Semis: Pursuing Justice Under Texas Hit-and-Run Laws

The Fading Freight: When a Semi Strikes and Speeds Away

You’re merging onto I-10 east of San Antonio, the late-afternoon sun casting long shadows across the lanes, when a sudden jolt rocks your sedan—an unmarked 18-wheeler grazes your side, tires screeching as it fishtails and flees into the flow of traffic. Your hands tremble on the wheel, a gash on your arm bleeding through your sleeve, and by the time you pull over and call for help, the rig is a speck on the horizon. Confusion turns to anger: Who was that? Why didn’t they stop? If this hit-and-run horror hits home, know that you’re far from alone—and far from out of options: As of early October 2025, Texas has recorded over 35,000 commercial truck crashes, with hit-and-runs contributing to a troubling uptick of about 10% from previous years, often involving uninsured or overloaded semis that bolt to avoid the fallout. These incidents leave victims not just physically hurt but financially stranded, with average damages exceeding $100,000. We recognize the betrayal and fear in those moments—let’s break down the laws, your rights, and the road to recovery so you can hold the fleeing freight accountable and get the support you deserve.

Call our San Antonio 18 wheeler – Truck Accident Lawyers now!

Texas Hit-and-Run Laws: What Drivers Must Do – And the Penalties for Bolting

Texas takes hit-and-run accidents seriously, especially with semis, where the damage can be catastrophic. Under Transportation Code Chapter 550, drivers must stop immediately after any collision involving injury, death, or property damage over $50. For truckers, this means exchanging info (name, address, insurance, vehicle details), rendering aid (calling 911 if needed), and securing the scene—no exceptions for “just a scrape.”

Penalties escalate with severity: Property-only under $200? Class C misdemeanor, up to $500 fine. Over that? Class B: Up to 180 days in jail and $2,000 fine. Injury? Third-degree felony: 2–10 years in prison, $10,000 fine. Death? Second-degree: 2–20 years, same fine. Add license suspension, surcharges, and civil liability for your losses—truckers face FMCSA scrutiny too, risking out-of-service orders. In 2023, Texas saw thousands of hit-and-runs, with trucks involved in a disproportionate share due to their size and speed; 2025 trends suggest a continued rise, making enforcement a priority. We know the injustice stings—laws exist to deter this cowardice, and violations often lead to felony charges that strengthen your civil case.

Time is of the essence get in touch with our San Antonio Truck – 18 wheeler Accident Lawyer Today!

Immediate Steps After a Hit-and-Run Semi Strike: Protecting Your Rights

The moments after a fleeing semi are critical—act fast to preserve your claim. First, prioritize safety: Pull over if possible, turn on hazards, and call 911—even minor impacts can hide serious injuries. Provide details to officers: Direction fled, rig color, any partial markings (DOT numbers on the cab are key for tracing).

Document everything: Photos of your damage, the scene, and surroundings—skid marks or debris can reconstruct the escape. Gather witness contacts; in busy I-10 corridors, bystanders often catch glimpses on dash cams. File a police report within 10 days if not done on-site (TxDOT form CR-3)—it’s your foundation for insurance and investigations. One Houston driver, grazed by a ghost rig on I-10, used a bystander’s phone video to ID the trailer—leading to a felony arrest and $40,000 UM payout. Don’t underestimate the shock; if you’re hurt, seek medical care right away—delays can hurt your case later.

Filing a Claim: From UM Coverage to John Doe Suits

A fleeing semi often means no at-fault policy, but Texas tools turn the tide. Start with your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage—optional but crucial, it fills gaps up to your limits ($50,000–$100,000 recommended) for medicals, repairs, and lost wages. Notify your insurer within 24 hours, submitting the report and photos—claims typically process in 30–60 days.

For hit-and-runs, tap the Texas Crime Victims’ Compensation Program: Up to $50,000 for medicals (apply within 180 days) and $250 for property via TxDOT. Sue as “John Doe” if unidentified—hire a skip tracer ($500–$2,000) to hunt via DOT records, then garnish if caught. PIP bridges basics (80% wages to $10,000). In Dallas’s I-35 maze, a motorist pursued a phantom flatbed through FMCSA—netted $60,000 total. The two-year statute ticks from impact—act soon.

Victim Voices: Real Hit-and-Run Semi Stories from Texas Roads

Javier, a San Antonio construction worker on Loop 410: An unmarked semi sideswiped his truck at dusk, fleeing east—no plates, just pain and a $25,000 repair bill. UM covered $30,000, and a witness sketch led to a felony charge—$15,000 more from the fund.

Maria, a Dallas office commuter on I-35E: Rear-ended by a rig that bolted—whiplash and $12,000 ER costs. John Doe suit via DOT traced the owner; $50,000 settlement after proving the hit-and-run breach.

These 2025 cases highlight hope: With quick action, victims reclaim control amid the 35,000+ annual truck crashes.

Key Tips: Safeguards and Strategies to Strengthen Your Case

Stay proactive: Drive defensively near rigs—extra space on merges. Equip dash cams for proof. Review UM coverage yearly—$100–$300 buys peace.

To bolster your claim:

• Report details precisely—direction, descriptions.
• Collect contacts immediately—witnesses fade.
• Document injuries thoroughly—medical links maximize.
• Consult a specialist early—they navigate FMCSA for free upfront.

We appreciate how overwhelming this feels—professional guidance turns fear into fairness.

If a hit-and-run semi has struck, reach out to a Texas truck accident attorney for a no-cost review—they’ll help trace the truck and build your case.

Share your story in the comments—we’re here to support and advise fellow Texans.

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