In Texas, you have two years from the date of 18 wheeler accident to file a civil lawsuit seeking compensation for your economic and non-economic damages. This is called the Statute of Limitations. Keep in mind, that the two-year time period continues to run during any pre-litigation claim handling process or negotiations. It is always most advantageous to consult with an attorney immediately following a truck accident because companies quickly begin repairing damaged tractors and trailers and will continue destroying records and data in accordance with their standard business practices.