Travis County, TX — January 8, 2025, a woman was injured following a truck accident at approximately 3:30 p.m. along State Highway 71.

According to authorities, a 58-year-old woman from Paige was traveling in a northwest bound Honda CR-V on S.H. 71 in the vicinity southeast of the Wolf Lane intersection when the accident took place.

The cause of the accident remains unclear. Officials indicate that, for as yet unknown reasons, a southwest bound Peterbilt 18-wheeler with a trailer in tow attempted to enter the roadway at an apparently unsafe time, failing to yield the right-of-way as it made a wide right turn from a private drive. A collision reportedly followed between the left-back quarter of the 18-wheeler's trailer and the front-end of the Honda.

The woman from the Honda sustained serious injuries over the course of the accident, according to reports. It doesn't appear that anyone else was hurt. Additional details pertaining to this incident—including the identity of the victim—are not available at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

Accidents involving commercial trucks and passenger vehicles, such as the one described here, often result in serious consequences for the occupants of the smaller vehicle. In this case, the Honda driver sustained serious injuries after her vehicle collided with the rear quarter of a large truck’s trailer. From my experience handling cases like these, it is essential to carefully examine the actions and responsibilities of the truck driver and their employer to determine accountability.

The details provided suggest that the truck may have entered the roadway unsafely, but further investigation is necessary to understand what led to the collision. Did the truck driver fail to properly assess oncoming traffic before attempting to enter the highway? Was the truck making an excessively wide turn or moving too slowly for traffic conditions? Factors such as driver distraction, fatigue, or insufficient training could have played a role. Additionally, the truck itself warrants scrutiny. Were its safety features, such as mirrors and lighting, functioning correctly? Poorly maintained equipment can significantly increase the difficulty of safely maneuvering large vehicles.

The role of the trucking company is also a crucial factor to consider. Carriers have a responsibility to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and that their drivers are adequately trained and prepared for complex maneuvers like wide turns. Investigators must determine whether the company provided the necessary training and whether any company policies or practices might have contributed to the truck driver’s actions in this incident. Companies that prioritize productivity over safety can create conditions where accidents are more likely to occur.

Ultimately, the goal is to uncover the truth and provide answers to those affected by the crash. Even if it requires conducting an independent investigation to obtain critical evidence, it’s essential to examine every factor to ensure the injured woman and her loved ones receive the clarity and closure they deserve.