Byline By Attorney Fernando J. Lopez Lopez Law Group Published February 19 2026
Introduction
On Tuesday February 17 2026 just before 11 a.m. a crash involving three vehicles happened on the I-610 South Loop westbound at Buffalo Speedway in Houston. The wreck included a recycling truck that overturned in the main lanes. Houston Police Department responded quickly and shut down all westbound lanes for several hours while crews cleared the scene. No one died in the crash according to officials. Injuries were not detailed in initial reports but first responders attended to anyone hurt. Traffic backed up heavily and drivers had to find alternate routes. TranStar cameras and SkyEye footage showed the aftermath with emergency teams working to reopen the road.
Houston freeways like 610 see these multi-vehicle incidents often due to heavy traffic trucks and sudden stops. TxDOT data shows Texas averages around 11 fatal crashes per day but this one avoided fatalities. We help people every week who need to know what to do after a car accident how to file car accident claims or who to call after car accident. If you or someone close got hurt in this crash or any similar wreck on 610 in Houston call us anytime. We offer free case reviews and work on no win no fee. You pay nothing unless we win.
For more on Houston road risks see our page on Houston car accident lawyer.
What Happened in the Crash
The incident took place on the westbound side of 610 South Loop right at Buffalo Speedway. Three vehicles collided and a recycling truck flipped over in the main lanes. Houston Police arrived soon after and closed all westbound lanes. The road stayed blocked while police investigated and crews removed the truck and debris. No cause was released right away but busy loops like this often involve merging issues or sudden braking. The crash cleared later in the day according to some updates.
This area near NRG Stadium and busy commercial zones sees constant truck traffic which can make collisions more serious.
Why Crashes Like This Cause Major Disruptions and Injuries
Freeways mix high speeds with large trucks and sudden lane changes. An overturned recycling truck blocks lanes fast and creates hazards for other drivers. Even without deaths injuries like whiplash fractures or internal issues happen from impact. Families face hospital visits lost work and stress. In Houston truck-related wrecks add complexity with company liability and federal rules.
Check our guide on common causes of Texas car accidents for more on truck and multi-vehicle risks.
Who Can Be Held Responsible
The drivers or companies involved may face fault. The recycling truck owner or operator could be liable if driver error maintenance failure or overload played a role. Other vehicles might share blame. Texas gives most people two years from the crash date to file under Civil Practice and Remedies Code section 16.003. Commercial truck cases often involve extra insurance layers. We review all details to find every possible source of compensation.
See our truck accident lawyer near me page for truck-specific help.
Steps to Take If You Get Hurt in a Houston Crash
Many search car collision what to do or what to do after a car accident right away. Here are steps that help most.
Immediate Actions
- See a doctor right away even if you feel okay. Injuries can show up later.
- Call police so they make a report. You may need how to get an accident report online later.
- Take pictures of damage the road injuries and scene if safe.
- Get names badge numbers and contacts from police or witnesses.
- Do not give recorded statements to insurance without a lawyer.
- Contact a lawyer fast to protect evidence and meet deadlines for car accident claims.
These keep your case strong and ease report motor vehicle accident or how to claim car accident.
For Houston specific advice visit Houston car accident lawyer.
What Money You Might Get
You can claim doctor bills lost wages future treatment pain and suffering. Truck crashes often allow higher amounts due to commercial insurance. Each case varies by facts. People ask about car accident claim steps or how to claim car accident money. We explain clearly.
Learn factors at how much is my personal injury claim worth.
We Help People in Houston
We handle serious injury cases in Houston every week including hurt in a car wreck or truck incidents. We check reports bring experts and deal with insurance. We fight for fair pay. Our team speaks English and Spanish. No win no fee means no upfront cost. If you need who to call after car accident auto accident advice or best car accident attorney in Houston we are available 24/7.
For more Houston help see Houston truck accident lawyer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim if a truck was involved?
Yes, you can definitely claim compensation when a commercial truck is involved in the accident. Commercial trucks in Texas often carry much higher insurance limits (frequently $750,000 or more for non-hazardous loads, per federal and state rules) compared to standard vehicles. We aggressively pursue all liable parties, including the driver, trucking company, and others, to maximize your recovery for injuries and damages.
How long to file in Texas?
In most Texas car or truck accident cases, you have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. This statute of limitations is set under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003 and applies to claims for injuries or property damage. It’s best to start the claims process soon after the accident to preserve evidence, gather witness statements, and avoid complications.
What if no injuries were first reported?
Even if no injuries were reported at the scene, you can still pursue a claim because some injuries (like whiplash or internal issues) appear or worsen days or weeks later. Always get a medical evaluation promptly after the accident and document all symptoms, treatments, and related expenses thoroughly. Delayed symptoms are common in crashes, and Texas law allows recovery as long as you file within the two-year statute of limitations.
Do I need a lawyer for this crash?
Yes, hiring a lawyer is highly recommended for crashes involving trucks, especially with factors like lane closures or complex liability rules. Truck accident cases involve federal regulations, multiple liable parties, and aggressive insurance companies that often complicate claims. An experienced attorney handles negotiations, evidence collection, and legal steps to help secure fair compensation without you facing the process alone.
Call Lopez Law Group anytime for free talk. Use our form or call. We serve Houston and all Texas.
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Disclaimer
This post uses facts from public news for information only. It is not legal advice. Talk to a lawyer about your situation. Past cases do not promise same results.
