Austin Semi-Truck Accidents: What Makes I-35 & SH-130 So Dangerous for Local Drivers

By Laura Sharp

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Truck Accident

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Last Modified on Jan 10, 2026

In the United States, truck drivers play a vital role in getting necessities and luxury items to consumers across the country. Truck drivers are crucial to our economy, yet the roads and highways Texas drivers share with them can be some of the most dangerous and risky environments for everyone on the road. Austin semi-truck accidents might not be predictable, but knowing what makes a highway so dangerous can help you take precautions to keep yourself safe.

Knowledgeable Truck Accident Attorneys

If you were in a motor vehicle accident involving a semi-truck in the Austin, Texas area, The Sharp Firm can help. With over 60 years of combined experience in litigation, our Austin semi-truck accident lawyers are here to work toward a settlement that covers all physical, emotional, and property damages incurred.

Why Are Interstates and Highways in Texas So Dangerous?

A combination of factors makes Interstate 35 and State Highway 130 so dangerous for local drivers in Austin, Texas. The population of this ever-growing city is currently just over 1,054,000, making it one of the most populated areas in Texas. A high population in America usually means high congestion on highways and roads.

I-35 stretches the entirety of the state from North to South, and SH-130 connects Austin to the San Antonio area, both of which experience not only normal use, but also rush hour, commuter, and tourist or out-of-state traffic, all while providing passage for commercial vehicles like semi-trucks. In general, heavily congested highways are more likely to experience accidents.

Both I-35 and SH-130 are corridors for a high volume of freighters and semi-truck drivers, adding stress on these highways for many drivers. Large semi-trucks can be intimidating to drive near on the already chaotic Texas roads. High congestion and large vehicles blocking visibility or speeding alongside you create driving conditions that can be dangerous not only to you, but to the truck driver as well.

State Highway 130 is unique in that it is famous for having the highest speed limit for a highway in the country. At 85 miles per hour, there is little to no room for error or distraction when traveling along this road. On top of the congested traffic and the almost constant presence of semi-trucks, this state highway is also known for its potholes, uneven pavement, and shoulder drop-offs that have been to blame for numerous accidents and fatalities.

How to Protect Yourself on Texas Highways

The most effective way to protect yourself on any road or highway is to pay attention and reduce distractions. Leave your phone locked and out of sight, pay attention to the vehicles around you, and give space to semi-trucks. The Austin area will continue to grow, and roads will get busier as new plants and factories are built that bring in more jobs.

Despite taking every precaution, accidents still happen. If you are in an accident involving a semi-truck in the Austin, Texas area, an Austin personal injury attorney is here to help you every step of the way until you get your injury settlement.

FAQs

What Is the Most Dangerous Stretch of Highway in Texas?

Texas has many highways that are considered dangerous or pose a high risk for vehicle accidents. A few of the highways and interstates considered to be the most dangerous are Interstate 45 (I-45), Interstate 35 (I-35), and State Highway 130 (SH-130). The factors that contribute to the high risk of accidents include a high volume of traffic between heavily populated cities, high speed limits, ongoing construction, and reckless drivers.

What Is the Number One Cause of Death for Truck Drivers?

The number one cause of death for truck drivers on the job is motor vehicle accidents. The job can be demanding on the mind and body. Common factors associated with accidents include fatigue, speeding, and failure to follow the rules of the road in an attempt to meet the demands of the job. Drivers making long-haul shipments are also found to be at a higher risk of conditions such as heart disease due to the sedentary nature of the job.

What Is the Number One Factor for Collisions in Texas?

Many factors contribute to truck accidents in Austin, Texas, many of which can be summed up to a driver not paying attention. Exceeding speed limits can make it difficult to slow down in time when needed. Distractions from the road, such as music or a cellphone, can take the driver’s attention off the road for a moment and result in an accident. Failing to follow the rules of the road, like weaving or changing lanes without checking first, also contributes.

Is I-35 the Most Dangerous Highway in Texas?

In a recent publication, it was reported that Interstate 35 is considered the third most dangerous highway in the state of Texas. Interstate 10 and Interstate 20 ranked number one and two. In the five-year span when the study was conducted, of the 18,700 accidents recorded, 346 of them occurred on I-35. There are multiple construction projects funded through 2026 and beyond to address the dangers of Austin’s highways and interstates, as well as congestion on Texas roads.

Hire an Austin Semi-Truck Accident Attorney

In the state of Texas, truck drivers share some of the busiest highways and interstates with millions of other drivers every day. Getting into an accident involving a truck can be overwhelming and complex when dealing with a corporate company, as well as insurance providers and lawyers. Do not delay in getting the legal guidance and protection you deserve. An Austin semi-truck accident attorney can handle your case with compassion and work toward the full compensation you are owed.

For filing information, the Austin Municipal Court is located at 6800 Burleson Rd., Bldg. 310, Suite 175, Austin, TX, 78744.

The Sharp Firm has over 30 years of experience in litigation and appeals courts. We are ready to evaluate your case at no cost unless your case is successful. If you have been in an accident involving a truck driver in Texas, contact our attorney today.