Why Are Head-On Tractor-Trailer Crashes So Deadly?

 Posted on June 24, 2025 in Truck accidents

An 18-wheeler crossed the center median and hit a pickup head-on on June 13th, 2025, in Cherokee County, Texas. The crash happened early in the morning on U.S. Highway 69, with the impact causing the pickup to roll over and land upside down in a ditch. Both men in the pickup died at the scene.

After a head-on truck crash like this, families may be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim. Injured victims who survive could also file a personal injury claim. Our compassionate New Braunfels, TX truck accident lawyer can help by investigating the incident, identifying those responsible, and seeking financial compensation on your behalf.

What Happens During a Head-On Truck Crash?

A head-on collision is one of the most violent types of crashes. In a head-on collision, both vehicles are moving toward each other, which doubles the speed when they collide. For example, if both vehicles are traveling at 50 miles per hour, the impact is equivalent to hitting a wall at 100 miles per hour. When a large truck is involved, the impact often causes catastrophic or fatal injuries to the occupants of the passenger vehicle.

Why Do Head-On Truck Collisions Cause Such Severe Injuries to Car and Pickup Occupants?

A fully loaded tractor-trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, while most passenger vehicles weigh under 5,000 pounds. This huge weight difference makes it difficult for a smaller vehicle to protect its occupants in a crash.

When a semi-truck crashes head-on into a smaller vehicle, the smaller vehicle may be pushed off the road, crushed, or rolled over. All of these possibilities raise the risk of fatal injuries.

What Can Cause a Head-On Semi Wreck?

Many head-on crashes involving semi-trucks happen when the truck crosses the center line. This can happen for several reasons, including:

• Driver fatigue or falling asleep at the wheel
• Distracted driving
• Speeding or reckless driving
• Impaired driving due to alcohol, drugs, or medication
• Poor weather or road conditions
• Tire blowouts or brake failure
• Overcorrecting after drifting off the road

In some cases, improper maintenance or a defect in the truck itself may be to blame. You could even share the fault for causing a head-on collision. In Texas, you can still pursue a compensation claim as long as your degree of fault is not more than 50 percent. However, the amount you could obtain is reduced accordingly.

Determining the cause may require a detailed investigation, but knowing who was at fault is necessary for pursuing compensation.

What Damages Could Be Available to Victims or Their Families After a Truck Accident?

The value of your claim depends on case-specific factors. However, the damages for many truck wreck victims include pain and suffering, medical expenses, property damage, and lost income. A wrongful death claim addresses additional losses that eligible family members face.

Collecting as much as you deserve can be incredibly challenging. The liable insurer will probably fight hard to reduce or eliminate your payout. Our knowledgeable lawyer will advocate for your interests, refusing to let an insurance company take advantage of you.

Speak to Our Skilled Comal County, TX Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck crash cases can be complex. The Bettersworth Law Firm has the experience and resources to build a strong claim on your behalf. Call us today at 830-606-0404 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation with our determined New Braunfels, TX personal injury attorney. We are ready to help you move forward.