Skip to main content

How Many Semi Trucks Are On U.S. Roads?


You know the feeling when you’re easily driving along the highway and then see multiple semi trucks up ahead? Whether the sight causes you fear, annoyance, or stress, that feeling isn’t without reason. Their size alone can make anyone feel uneasy, especially when you’re surrounded by them in fast-moving traffic. And we all know how frustrating it can be when we’re stuck behind one semi that’s trying to pass another on a two-lane highway.

Since when are there so many trucks on the road in the first place? According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, there are more than 13 million registered large trucks in the United States. Of these, nearly 3 million are semi trucks (also called tractor-trailers or big rigs), and that number continues to grow.

Sharing The Road With Semis

Semi trucks are everywhere. On highways, city roads, and even in small towns. Their size and weight make them essential for moving goods across the country, but they also bring unique risks to other drivers.

The high volume (and growing number) of trucks on the road is driven by the demand for fast shipping, e-commerce, and the movement of raw materials across states. California, Texas, and Illinois are among the busiest states for freight traffic, with thousands of semi trucks operating daily. As the number of trucks increases, so does the potential for collisions, especially in high-traffic areas like Southern California.

The Reality Of Big Rig Accidents

As our Santa Monica, CA truck accident lawyer knows from experience, big rig crashes often result in serious injuries due to the sheer size and force of these vehicles. Semi trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds fully loaded, meaning even a low-speed accident can lead to significant damage. Many of these crashes are preventable, but they’re often caused by speeding, fatigue, distracted driving, or improper maintenance.

You might not think about how many trucks are on the road until you’re involved in an accident with one. But the numbers matter. More trucks mean more opportunities for driver error, equipment failure, or dangerous road conditions to lead to a crash. In congested areas, like I-10, I-405, or Highway 1 near Santa Monica, it’s not unusual for truck accidents to create major traffic delays and severe injuries.

If You’ve Been Hurt, We Can Help

When you’re hit by a semi truck, you’re not just dealing with the driver—you’re dealing with trucking companies, insurers, and commercial vehicle regulations. These cases can involve multiple parties and a lot of paperwork. We help you focus on your recovery while we handle the investigation, gather evidence, and work to hold the responsible parties accountable.

If you’re injured, the financial toll can be astronomical. Medical bills, lost income, and long-term care costs add up fast. And because trucking companies often have legal teams and insurance adjusters protecting their interests, having someone on your side matters.

Don’t Hesitate To Reach Out

At the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we’ve represented people throughout California who were seriously hurt in truck crashes. We know how to approach these claims and pursue the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been injured in a semi truck accident, reach out to us today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you take the next step forward.

Get To Know Our Team


James V. Choulos, Esq.

James V. Choulos, Esq.

Founding Partner

Our founding partner, James V. Choulos, has been practicing law since 1990. A graduate of U.C. Berkeley and Santa Clara University, he combines legal knowledge with a personal, client-focused approach to representation.

Learn More
Victor Tsoi

Victor Tsoi, Esq.

Partner

Victor Tsoi earned his J.D. in 2011 from Thomas Jefferson School of Law in San Diego. With experience spanning personal injury, entertainment law, and business law, he’s committed to bringing a sense of calm to any legal storm.

Learn More

Start The Conversation


It all begins with reaching out. Call or message us today to request your free consultation, and a team member will be in touch shortly about next steps.

Where To Find Us

Our California firm serves clients across Santa Monica, Los Angeles, Auburn, the Bay Area, and the surrounding communities. Find an office near you, and give us a call today to set up a free case evaluation.

520 Broadway, Suite 200
Santa Monica, CA 90401

310-589-3963

Office Hours

Mon- Fri | 8 AM–5 PM
Sat & Sun | Closed
Live Call Answering | 24/7

11764 Inverness Way
Auburn, CA 95602

530.732.3005

Office Hours

Mon- Fri | 8 AM–5 PM
Sat & Sun | Closed
Live Call Answering | 24/7

580 California St. 12th Floor,
San Francisco, CA 94104

415.433.8500

Office Hours

Mon- Fri | 8 AM–5 PM
Sat & Sun | Closed
Live Call Answering | 24/7