On the morning of January 20, 2026, a pair of serious crashes on Houston’s busy Interstate 45 North Freeway snarled commuter traffic and underscored just how quickly routine travel can turn dangerous. According to ABC13 Houston, an 18-wheeler jackknifed in the northbound lanes near Quitman Street, and a separate collision involving a truck and another vehicle occurred near Cavalcade Street — ultimately shutting down the freeway in both directions and causing significant delays for drivers during the morning rush hour.
Traffic cameras from Houston TranStar showed that only one lane was open after the semi-truck folded across lanes, creating a “jackknife” situation that blocked travel. Fire, police, and highway crews eventually worked to turn the truck around, reopen the roadway, and restore traffic flow. Meanwhile, the second crash — which emergency responders said sent at least one person to the hospital — contributed to the extensive congestion that morning as crews worked to clear both scenes.
Incidents like these are unfortunately not rare. Jackknife and multi-vehicle crashes pose a significant risk on Texas highways, particularly where heavy trucks mix with everyday commuter traffic. A jackknife happens when a truck’s trailer swings out from the cab, creating a sharp angle that can completely block lanes and leave other motorists with little time to react. In many cases, these accidents are caused by sudden maneuvers, congested conditions, driver inattention, or uneven loads that destabilize a truck’s balance.
For Houston commuters and interstate travelers, this recent crash serves as a stark reminder of just how important it is to drive defensively and stay alert to the presence of large commercial vehicles. Big rigs have massive blind spots, require longer stopping distances, and can be particularly dangerous when pushing through traffic or navigating tight spaces. Even at relatively low speeds, a collision with an 18-wheeler can lead to catastrophic injuries or significant property damage.
When to Seek Legal Help After a Truck Accident
If you or a loved one were involved in this or any similar crash, you may be facing not only physical injuries but also emotional stress, lost wages, and steep medical or property repair bills. In the aftermath of a serious accident, it’s vital to understand your rights under Texas law — and to seek experienced legal guidance to protect those rights.
At Ben Bronston & Associates, we know how devastating truck accidents can be. These cases are often complex: they may involve multiple parties (such as the truck driver, trucking company, insurer, cargo loaders, and maintenance providers), extensive evidence gathering, and detailed reconstruction of how the accident occurred. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you pursue full compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost income, and other damages that may result from negligent or reckless driving.
Your Rights Matter
Don’t navigate the legal aftermath alone. When serious collisions disrupt your life, having an advocate on your side can make a measurable difference. Ben Bronston & Associates is here to evaluate your case and help you understand all of your options after a crash involving a commercial truck.
Contact us today for a consultation — because when you’re hurt through no fault of your own, you shouldn’t have to fight for justice by yourself.
Call 713.CALL.BEN ( 713-225-5236 ) or email us for a FREE and CONFIDENTIAL consultation.
[Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.]
