Oilfield Truck Crashes in South Texas Can Lead to Serious Injury and Wrongful Death
Along the highways and rural roads that cut through the Eagle Ford Shale, heavy oilfield traffic has become a way of life—and a growing danger. From 18-wheelers hauling fracking sand to water trucks servicing remote drilling sites, the rise in energy production has brought an increase in serious and fatal crashes across South Texas. When these accidents happen, it’s often the other driver—the one in the passenger car or pickup—who pays the price.
At The Herrera Law Firm, our truck accident lawyers understand the devastating impact these wrecks can have. We’ve represented injured victims and grieving families throughout the San Antonio region, and we understand the unique dangers posed by oilfield trucking in the Eagle Ford Shale. If you've been hit and hurt by an oilfield truck, we're ready to help you fight back and demand justice.
Why Oilfield Truck Accidents Are So Common in the Eagle Ford Shale
The Eagle Ford Shale is one of the most active oil and gas regions in the country, stretching from the Mexican border to counties just south of San Antonio. Every day, hundreds of commercial vehicles travel narrow rural roads, overloaded with industrial equipment or hazardous materials. These aren’t typical highway trucks—they’re often operated under tight deadlines, on long shifts, and in difficult conditions.
Some common factors contributing to oilfield truck crashes include:
- Driver fatigue after long hours on the road or working at remote well sites.
- Poorly maintained trucks that suffer mechanical failure.
- Unsecured loads that can shift, spill, or cause rollovers.
- Limited visibility on dark rural roads with little shoulder room.
- Pressure to meet delivery deadlines, even in unsafe conditions.
When these conditions combine with inexperience, distracted driving, or disregard for safety, it creates the perfect storm for a catastrophic crash.
Common Types of Eagle Ford Shale Truck Accidents
Oilfield trucking accidents are rarely simple. The types of collisions we see in the Eagle Ford Shale region often involve multiple vehicles, extensive damage, and life-changing injuries. Some of the most common truck accident types include:
1. Tanker Truck Rollovers
Many oilfield trucks transport liquid cargo, including water, fuel, and drilling fluids. These loads are highly susceptible to sloshing, especially when tanks are partially full. Sudden turns, braking, or uneven road surfaces can lead to rollover crashes, especially on two-lane roads or rural highways, such as State Highway 72 or FM 99.
2. Sand Hauler Collisions
Frac sand trucks are among the most hazardous vehicles on the road. These rigs are often overweight, top-heavy, and travel at high speeds between mines and drill sites. A sudden stop or poorly timed turn can cause these trucks to careen into oncoming traffic or smaller vehicles.
3. Wide Turn Accidents
Many Eagle Ford roads weren’t designed to accommodate commercial vehicles making wide right turns. As a result, large trucks often swing into adjacent lanes or onto the shoulder, where other drivers may be waiting at intersections or stop signs.
4. Rear-End Collisions
Some drivers underestimate the stopping distance required for oilfield trucks. But it’s just as common for truck drivers to crash into the back of smaller vehicles, especially if they're distracted or fatigued. These rear-end collisions can be deadly, especially at highway speeds.
5. Head-On Collisions on Narrow Roads
County roads in the Eagle Ford region can be extremely narrow, particularly at night or in poor weather conditions. A truck that drifts over the center line—or swerves to avoid an obstacle—can cause a head-on crash in an instant.
6. Cargo Spills and Fires
Oilfield truck accidents can be especially dangerous due to the nature of the cargo. Leaks, spills, and explosions involving fuel, crude oil, or drilling chemicals can lead to fires or secondary injuries, which can complicate the recovery process.
Proving Fault After an Oilfield Truck Crash
Unlike a typical car accident, oilfield truck crashes involve complex liability issues. The truck may be owned by one company, operated by a subcontractor, and maintained by a third-party service provider. Drivers may be rushed, poorly trained, or pressured to skip safety steps to meet deadlines. These issues often require a deep investigation, including:
- Reviewing driver logs and electronic data recorders (black boxes)
- Examining truck maintenance records and inspection reports
- Obtaining dash cam or surveillance footage
- Identifying all corporate entities involved in the logistics chain
- Analyzing crash scene evidence and vehicle damage
At The Herrera Law Firm, our San Antonio truck accident attorneys know how to thoroughly investigate these details and uncover the truth about what really happened. Our legal team collaborates with crash reconstruction professionals, medical experts, and industry investigators to construct robust cases for compensation.
Filing a Claim After an Oilfield Truck Crash in South Texas
If you or a loved one was injured in a crash involving an oilfield truck, you may be able to pursue compensation for:
- Medical expenses and future care needs
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death and funeral costs (for fatal accidents)
Texas law limits the time you have to take legal action, so it’s important to talk to a San Antonio truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. Our attorneys know how to handle tough oilfield accident cases—and we don’t back down when powerful companies try to avoid responsibility.
We Represent Accident Victims Across the Eagle Ford Shale Region
The Herrera Law Firm has deep roots in South Texas and a proud tradition of standing up for individuals who have been hurt. From Karnes City to Cotulla to Three Rivers, we’re here for the families affected by oilfield truck crashes. When you put us on your side, you’re choosing a legal team that knows how to fight—and win.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in the Eagle Ford Shale, don’t wait. Contact our San Antonio law firm for a free consultation. We’re ready to hear your story, explain your potential legal options, and take action to help you recover the maximum compensation you deserve under Texas law.
