18-Wheeler Accidents in Blanco County: Your Complete Legal Guide

When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Your Life Forever

The moment an 18-wheeler crashes into your vehicle on Blanco County’s highways, everything changes. That split second of impact from an 80,000-pound truck creates forces that passenger vehicles simply aren’t designed to withstand. The physics are brutal: a fully loaded semi-truck carries 20-25 times the weight of your car, and at highway speeds, the energy transfer is catastrophic.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Blanco County, you’re facing one of the most complex legal battles in personal injury law. Trucking companies have rapid-response legal teams, million-dollar insurance policies, and decades of experience minimizing claims. You need more than just a lawyer – you need a specialized 18-wheeler accident attorney who understands the unique challenges of commercial vehicle litigation in Blanco County.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against some of the largest trucking companies in America. We know Blanco County’s trucking corridors, from the rural routes to the distribution centers where drivers may be violating federal hours-of-service regulations. This local knowledge, combined with our deep understanding of FMCSA regulations, gives us a powerful advantage in building your case.

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

Why Blanco County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Blanco County sits at the crossroads of major Texas trucking routes, with commercial vehicles passing through daily on their way to Austin, San Antonio, and beyond. The mix of rural highways, agricultural traffic, and increasing development creates unique challenges:

• Rural road hazards: Narrow lanes, limited shoulders, and unpredictable livestock crossings
• Seasonal traffic: Agricultural harvests create peak trucking demand
• Speed differentials: Trucks traveling at highway speeds mixing with local traffic
• Fatigue risks: Long-haul drivers passing through may be pushing their hours-of-service limits
• Maintenance challenges: Rural truck stops may have limited repair facilities

Unlike typical car accidents, trucking cases involve multiple potentially liable parties, complex federal regulations, and massive insurance policies. The trucking company’s insurance adjusters will be working immediately to minimize your claim – you need to act just as fast to protect your rights.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents

The statistics are sobering:

• 5,100+ people killed in large truck crashes annually in the United States
• 125,000+ people injured every year in trucking accidents
• 76% of fatalities are occupants of the smaller vehicle
• 29% of fatal truck crashes involve brake problems
• 13% of truck drivers involved in fatal crashes had previous speeding convictions

In Blanco County, these numbers translate to real human suffering. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks mean that when accidents happen, the consequences are often catastrophic:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

The violent forces of a truck collision can cause your brain to impact the inside of your skull, resulting in:

• Concussions (mild TBI)
• Contusions (brain bruising)
• Diffuse axonal injuries (shearing of brain connections)
• Penetrating injuries (from debris)

TBI symptoms may not appear immediately but can include:

• Persistent headaches
• Memory loss and confusion
• Mood swings and personality changes
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Seizures

The lifetime cost of caring for a severe TBI can exceed $3 million.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

When a truck’s massive weight crushes a vehicle, spinal cord damage is common:

• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
• Incomplete injuries: Some nerve function remains

These injuries often require:

• Immediate surgery
• Long-term rehabilitation
• Home modifications
• Assistive devices
• 24/7 personal care

The lifetime cost for a quadriplegic injury can exceed $5 million.

Amputations

The crushing forces of a truck collision can sever limbs or require surgical amputation due to:

• Severe crush injuries
• Burns from fuel fires
• Infections from open wounds
• Traumatic extraction from vehicles

Amputees face:

• Multiple surgeries
• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000 each)
• Physical therapy
• Psychological counseling
• Career limitations

Severe Burns

Truck accidents often result in fires due to:

• Fuel tank ruptures
• Electrical system damage
• Hazardous cargo spills

Burn injuries can cause:

• Third-degree burns requiring skin grafts
• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Chronic pain
• Psychological trauma
• Multiple reconstructive surgeries

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident takes a life, surviving family members may recover:

• Lost future income
• Loss of companionship
• Funeral expenses
• Medical bills before death
• Pain and suffering of the deceased
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Blanco County

Understanding what caused your accident is crucial to building a strong case. Our investigation focuses on these common causes:

Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)

Federal regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

• 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-hour on-duty window after coming on duty
• 30-minute break required after 8 hours of driving
• 60/70-hour weekly limits (60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days)

Violations are alarmingly common in Blanco County, where drivers may be pushing their limits to meet delivery deadlines. Fatigued driving is as dangerous as drunk driving – reaction times slow, judgment is impaired, and drivers may fall asleep at the wheel.

How we prove fatigue:

• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data
• Driver’s paper logs (if still used)
• Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
• GPS data showing continuous driving
• Witness statements about driver behavior

Distracted Driving

Truck drivers face multiple distractions:

• Cell phone use (texting, calls, GPS)
• Dispatch communications (Qualcomm systems)
• Eating and drinking while driving
• Adjusting in-cab electronics
• External distractions (billboards, accidents)

Federal law prohibits hand-held phone use while driving a commercial vehicle. We subpoena cell phone records to prove distraction.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Trucks require significantly longer stopping distances:

• 65 mph: 525 feet to stop (nearly 2 football fields)
• 55 mph: 390 feet to stop
• 45 mph: 265 feet to stop

Speeding reduces reaction time and increases crash severity. We analyze:

• ECM (black box) data for speed
• Skid mark analysis
• Witness statements
• Road conditions

Improper Maintenance and Brake Failures

Brake problems cause 29% of truck accidents. Common maintenance failures include:

• Worn brake pads/shoes
• Improper brake adjustment
• Air brake system leaks
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Defective brake components
• Failure to conduct pre-trip inspections

We subpoena maintenance records to identify deferred repairs and known defects.

Cargo Securement Failures

Improperly secured cargo can:

• Shift during transit, destabilizing the truck
• Fall onto roadways, creating hazards
• Cause rollovers on curves
• Spill hazardous materials

Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) specify exact securement requirements. Violations are common and dangerous.

Drug and Alcohol Use

Despite strict regulations, substance abuse remains a problem:

• 1 in 8 truck drivers tested positive for drugs in some studies
• Alcohol use is prohibited within 4 hours of driving
• Random drug testing is required but not always enforced

We demand drug and alcohol test results from the time of the accident.

Inexperienced or Unqualified Drivers

Trucking companies sometimes cut corners on driver qualifications:

• Hiring drivers with poor safety records
• Failing to verify CDL status
• Not checking medical certification
• Inadequate training on vehicle operation

We investigate the driver’s qualification file for negligent hiring evidence.

The Trucking Company’s Playbook – And How We Counter It

Within hours of your accident, the trucking company’s rapid-response team springs into action. Their goals:

1. Minimize liability – Shift blame to you or other parties
2. Destroy evidence – Overwrite black box data, delete dashcam footage
3. Control the narrative – Get driver statements before you can
4. Lowball settlements – Offer quick money before you understand your injuries
5. Delay and deny – Wear you down with bureaucracy

Our counter-strategy:

Immediate Evidence Preservation

We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours demanding preservation of:

• ECM/black box data (can be overwritten in 30 days)
• ELD records (hours of service data)
• Dashcam footage (often deleted within 7-14 days)
• Cell phone records
• Maintenance records
• Driver qualification files
• GPS/telematics data
• Cargo loading records
• The physical truck and trailer

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client

Comprehensive Investigation

Our investigation goes beyond the police report:

• Accident reconstruction: We hire experts to analyze skid marks, vehicle damage, and crash dynamics
• Data retrieval: We download ECM, ELD, and GPS data to prove violations
• Witness interviews: We locate and interview witnesses before memories fade
• Scene documentation: We photograph the accident scene, road conditions, and signage
• Vehicle inspection: We examine the truck for maintenance violations and defects
• Company records: We subpoena all relevant documents from the trucking company

Identifying All Liable Parties

Unlike car accidents, trucking cases often involve multiple defendants:

1. Truck driver: For negligent operation
2. Trucking company: For vicarious liability, negligent hiring/training/supervision
3. Cargo owner: For improper loading instructions
4. Loading company: For improper cargo securement
5. Truck manufacturer: For design or manufacturing defects
6. Parts manufacturer: For defective components (brakes, tires)
7. Maintenance company: For negligent repairs
8. Freight broker: For negligent carrier selection
9. Government entity: For dangerous road conditions

We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

Blanco County-Specific Challenges and Solutions

Rural Road Accidents

Blanco County’s rural roads present unique challenges:

• Limited cell service: May delay emergency response
• Long distances to trauma centers: Increases injury severity
• Few witnesses: Makes liability disputes more likely
• Unmarked intersections: Creates confusion about right-of-way
• Livestock crossings: Can create sudden hazards

Our approach:

• We work with local law enforcement to preserve scene evidence
• We interview first responders familiar with rural road hazards
• We analyze road design and signage for potential defects
• We use accident reconstruction to prove what happened

Agricultural Trucking Risks

Blanco County’s agricultural industry creates specific trucking hazards:

• Seasonal peaks: Harvest times create sudden increases in truck traffic
• Slow-moving vehicles: Farm equipment sharing roads with trucks
• Dust and debris: Can reduce visibility for following drivers
• Overloaded trucks: May exceed weight limits
• Improperly secured loads: Agricultural products can shift or fall

Our approach:

• We investigate harvest schedules and peak traffic times
• We analyze load securement methods specific to agricultural products
• We examine weigh station records for overweight violations
• We consult agricultural safety experts when needed

Interstate and Highway Accidents

Major routes through Blanco County include:

• US Highway 281: North-south corridor connecting to I-35
• State Highway 71: East-west route to Austin and beyond
• Farm to Market Roads: Local routes with truck traffic

These highways present different challenges:

• High-speed collisions: More severe injuries
• Multi-vehicle pileups: Complex liability issues
• Underride accidents: Often fatal
• Runaway trucks: On steep grades
• Construction zones: Lane shifts and reduced visibility

Our approach:

• We analyze traffic patterns and accident hotspots
• We investigate construction zone safety compliance
• We examine weigh station inspection records
• We work with highway safety experts

The Legal Process: What to Expect

Immediate Steps (First 48 Hours)

1. Seek medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor
2. Contact an attorney: Before speaking to any insurance company
3. Preserve evidence: Photos, witness information, police report
4. Document everything: Medical visits, pain levels, missed work
5. Follow doctor’s orders: Critical for your health and legal case

Investigation Phase (First 30 Days)

• We send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
• We obtain police reports and accident scene photos
• We subpoena ECM/ELD data and cell phone records
• We interview witnesses and first responders
• We inspect the truck and accident scene
• We obtain medical records and treatment plans

Demand and Negotiation (3-12 Months)

• We calculate full damages (medical, lost wages, pain and suffering)
• We send demand letter to all liable parties
• We negotiate with insurance companies
• We prepare for litigation if settlement offers are inadequate

Litigation (12-36 Months if Needed)

• We file lawsuit in appropriate court
• We conduct discovery (depositions, document requests)
• We retain expert witnesses (medical, accident reconstruction)
• We prepare for trial while continuing settlement negotiations
• We try the case if necessary to obtain full compensation

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Blanco County Trucking Case

1. Trucking Accident Specialists

We focus on commercial vehicle accidents. This specialization means:

• We know exactly what evidence to look for
• We understand the trucking industry’s tactics
• We have relationships with key experts
• We’re familiar with the major trucking companies operating in Blanco County

2. Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows:

• How insurance companies evaluate claims
• What tactics adjusters use to minimize payouts
• How to counter their strategies
• What makes them settle for maximum value

“Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years INSIDE the system. He watched adjusters minimize claims. He saw how they train their people to lowball victims. Now he exposes those tactics and uses his insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation.”
— Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This is crucial because:

• Interstate trucking cases often qualify for federal court
• Federal judges are experienced with complex trucking litigation
• Federal rules favor plaintiffs in certain cases
• We can handle cases anywhere in the country

4. Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve secured significant verdicts and settlements for trucking accident victims:

• $5+ Million: Logging brain injury settlement
• $3.8+ Million: Car accident amputation settlement
• $2.5+ Million: Truck crash recovery
• $2+ Million: Maritime back injury settlement
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

5. Bilingual Services

Blanco County has a significant Hispanic population, and many truck drivers are Spanish-speaking. Our team includes:

• Lupe Peña (fluent Spanish)
• Bilingual staff (including Zulema, praised in client reviews)
• Spanish-language consultations available

“Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.”
— Celia Dominguez, Attorney911 Client

6. Local Knowledge

We understand Blanco County’s:

• Trucking corridors and accident hotspots
• Local courts and judges
• Regional medical providers
• Agricultural and rural trucking challenges
• Community values and jury expectations

7. Contingency Fee Structure

You pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict – you never receive a bill from us.

What Your Case Might Be Worth

Trucking accident cases often settle for significantly more than typical car accident claims because:

1. Higher insurance limits: Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million in coverage
2. Catastrophic injuries: The damages are often severe
3. Multiple liable parties: More defendants mean more insurance coverage
4. Federal regulations: Violations create strong negligence claims

Typical settlement ranges in Texas trucking cases:

Factors that increase case value:

• Clear liability (truck driver at fault)
• Severe, permanent injuries
• Long-term medical needs
• Lost earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Punitive damages (gross negligence)
• Multiple liable parties

The Attorney911 Advantage: How We Maximize Your Recovery

1. Immediate Action

We move fast because evidence disappears quickly:

• 24-48 hours: Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
• 72 hours: Begin accident reconstruction
• 1 week: Obtain police reports and witness statements
• 2 weeks: Subpoena ECM/ELD data and cell phone records

2. Comprehensive Evidence Collection

We gather every piece of evidence that can strengthen your case:

• Electronic data: ECM, ELD, GPS, cell phone records
• Physical evidence: Truck inspection, accident scene photos
• Documentary evidence: Maintenance records, driver files
• Medical evidence: Complete treatment records, expert opinions
• Witness statements: Drivers, passengers, bystanders, first responders

3. Expert Witness Network

We work with top experts in:

• Accident reconstruction: To prove how the crash happened
• Medical specialists: To document your injuries and future needs
• Vocational experts: To calculate lost earning capacity
• Economic experts: To determine present value of future damages
• Trucking safety experts: To identify regulatory violations
• Life care planners: To develop comprehensive care plans

4. Aggressive Negotiation

We negotiate from a position of strength:

• We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial
• Insurance companies know we’re willing to go to court
• Our reputation for success gives us leverage
• We never accept lowball offers

5. Trial Readiness

While most cases settle, we’re always prepared to go to trial:

• Ralph Manginello has 25+ years of courtroom experience
• We have the resources to fund complex litigation
• We know how to present trucking cases to juries
• Our trial experience leads to better settlements

Common Trucking Accidents in Blanco County

Jackknife Accidents

What happens: The trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes.

Common causes in Blanco County:

• Sudden braking on rural roads
• Speeding on curves
• Empty trailers (more prone to swing)
• Improperly loaded cargo
• Brake failures
• Wet or icy road conditions

Evidence we look for:

• Skid marks showing trailer angle
• Brake inspection records
• Cargo securement documentation
• Weather conditions at time of accident

Underride Collisions

What happens: A smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer, often shearing off the roof.

Types:

• Rear underride: Vehicle strikes back of trailer
• Side underride: Vehicle impacts trailer side during lane changes or turns

Common causes in Blanco County:

• Inadequate or missing underride guards
• Poorly maintained rear lighting
• Sudden stops without warning
• Low visibility conditions
• Wide turns cutting off traffic

Evidence we look for:

• Underride guard condition and maintenance records
• Rear lighting compliance documentation
• Crash dynamics showing underride depth

Rollover Accidents

What happens: The truck tips onto its side or roof, often spilling cargo.

Common causes in Blanco County:

• Speeding on curves (common on rural roads)
• Improperly secured cargo shifting
• Liquid cargo “slosh” in tankers
• Overcorrection after tire blowout
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reaction
• Road design defects

Evidence we look for:

• ECM data showing speed through curve
• Cargo manifest and securement records
• Load distribution documentation
• Road geometry analysis

Rear-End Collisions

What happens: The truck strikes the back of another vehicle.

Common causes in Blanco County:

• Following too closely
• Driver distraction (cell phone, dispatch communications)
• Driver fatigue
• Excessive speed for conditions
• Brake failures
• Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns

Evidence we look for:

• ECM data showing following distance and speed
• ELD data for driver fatigue analysis
• Cell phone records for distraction evidence
• Brake inspection and maintenance records

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

What happens: The truck swings wide before making a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing the vehicle in the gap.

Common causes in Blanco County:

• Failure to properly signal turning intention
• Inadequate mirror checks
• Improper turn technique
• Driver inexperience with trailer tracking
• Poor intersection design

Evidence we look for:

• Turn signal activation data from ECM
• Mirror condition and adjustment records
• Driver training records
• Intersection geometry analysis

Blind Spot Collisions (“No-Zone” Accidents)

What happens: The truck changes lanes or maneuvers without seeing a vehicle in its blind spot.

The four No-Zones:

1. Front: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
2. Rear: 30 feet behind the trailer
3. Left side: From cab door backward
4. Right side: From cab door backward (largest blind spot)

Common causes in Blanco County:

• Failure to check mirrors before lane changes
• Improperly adjusted or damaged mirrors
• Driver distraction during lane changes
• Failure to use turn signals

Evidence we look for:

• Mirror condition and adjustment records
• Lane change data from ECM/telematics
• Turn signal activation records

Tire Blowout Accidents

What happens: A tire fails suddenly, causing the driver to lose control.

Common causes in Blanco County:

• Underinflated tires causing overheating
• Overloaded vehicles exceeding tire capacity
• Worn or aging tires not replaced
• Road debris punctures
• Manufacturing defects
• Improper tire matching on dual wheels

Evidence we look for:

• Tire maintenance and inspection records
• Tire age and wear documentation
• Vehicle weight records
• Failed tire for defect analysis

Brake Failure Accidents

What happens: The truck’s braking system fails or underperforms.

Common causes in Blanco County:

• Worn brake pads/shoes not replaced
• Improper brake adjustment
• Air brake system leaks
• Overheated brakes on long descents
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Defective brake components

Evidence we look for:

• Brake inspection and maintenance records
• Out-of-service inspection history
• ECM data showing brake application
• Post-crash brake system analysis

Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents

What happens: Improperly secured cargo falls from the truck or shifts during transit.

Types:

• Cargo shift: Load moves, destabilizing the truck
• Cargo spill: Load falls onto roadway
• Hazmat spill: Hazardous materials leak

Common causes in Blanco County:

• Inadequate tiedowns
• Improper loading distribution
• Failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats
• Tiedown failure due to wear
• Overloading beyond securement capacity

Evidence we look for:

• Cargo securement inspection photos
• Bill of lading and cargo manifest
• Loading company records
• Tiedown specifications and condition

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Blanco County

At the Scene

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor
3. Document everything – Photos of vehicles, scene, injuries, road conditions
4. Get information – Truck driver’s name, CDL number, trucking company info
5. Collect witness information – Names and contact details
6. Do NOT admit fault – Anything you say can be used against you
7. Do NOT give statements – Decline to speak with insurance adjusters

In the Days Following

1. Follow up with medical care – Attend all appointments
2. Document your recovery – Keep a pain journal, save medical records
3. Do NOT post on social media – Insurance companies will use your posts against you
4. Contact an attorney – Before speaking to any insurance company
5. Preserve evidence – Save damaged clothing, vehicle parts, etc.

Long-Term

1. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan – Skipping appointments hurts your case
2. Keep detailed records – Medical bills, lost wages, out-of-pocket expenses
3. Stay in communication with your attorney – Provide updates on your condition
4. Be patient – Trucking cases often take time to resolve properly

Frequently Asked Questions About Blanco County Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Blanco County?

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Blanco County, take these steps immediately if you’re able:

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
• Document the scene with photos and video if possible
• Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
• Collect witness contact information
• Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
• Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately

Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?

YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Blanco County hospitals like Seton Medical Center Hays in Kyle and Hill Country Memorial in Fredericksburg can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

What information should I collect at the truck accident scene?

Document everything possible:

• Truck and trailer license plates
• DOT number (on truck door)
• Trucking company name and logo
• Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
• Photos of all vehicle damage
• Photos of the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks
• Photos of your injuries
• Witness names and phone numbers
• Responding officer’s name and badge number
• Weather and road conditions

Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

NO. Do not give any recorded statements. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests.

How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney in Blanco County?

IMMEDIATELY – within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence in trucking cases (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Blanco County?

Multiple parties may be liable in trucking accidents:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company/motor carrier
• The cargo owner or shipper
• The company that loaded the cargo
• Truck or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers
• The truck owner (if different from carrier)
• Government entities (for road defects)

We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?

Usually YES. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for:

• Negligent hiring: Hiring unqualified drivers
• Negligent training: Inadequate safety training
• Negligent supervision: Failing to monitor driver behavior
• Negligent maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep

What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation as long as you’re not more than 50% responsible. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs – the data tells the true story.

What is a truck’s “black box” and how does it help my case?

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data – similar to airplane black boxes. This data can show:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Engine RPM and throttle position
• Whether cruise control was engaged
• GPS location

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened and can be crucial in proving liability.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are federally mandated devices that record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued. Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents, and ELD data provides powerful evidence of negligence.

How long does the trucking company keep black box and ELD data?

ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention for ELD data. This is why we send spoliation letters immediately – once we notify them of litigation, they must preserve everything.

What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We pursue:

• ECM/Black box data
• ELD records
• Driver Qualification File
• Maintenance records
• Inspection reports
• Dispatch logs
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training records
• Cell phone records
• Insurance policies
• The physical truck and trailer

Can the trucking company destroy evidence?

Once they’re on notice of potential litigation, destroying evidence is spoliation – a serious legal violation. Courts can:

• Instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable
• Impose monetary sanctions
• Enter default judgment in extreme cases
• Award punitive damages

What are hours of service regulations and how do violations cause accidents?

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

• Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 hours off duty
• Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
• 30-minute break required after 8 hours driving
• 60/70-hour weekly limits (60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days)

Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. Drivers who violate these rules are too tired to react safely.

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find:

• Hours of service violations (driving too long)
• False log entries (lying about driving time)
• Brake system deficiencies
• Cargo securement failures
• Drug and alcohol violations
• Unqualified drivers (no valid CDL or medical certificate)
• Failure to inspect vehicles

What is a Driver Qualification File and why does it matter?

FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a file for every driver containing:

• Employment application
• Driving record check
• Previous employer verification
• Medical certification
• Drug test results
• Training documentation

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring, which can make the trucking company directly liable for your injuries.

How do pre-trip inspections relate to my accident case?

Drivers must inspect their trucks before every trip. If they failed to conduct inspections or ignored known defects (bad brakes, worn tires, lighting problems), both the driver and company may be liable for negligence. We subpoena inspection records to identify these violations.

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Blanco County?

Case values depend on many factors:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of defendant’s negligence
• Insurance coverage available

Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents. We’ve seen verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions.

What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in Blanco County?

Texas allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover:

• Lost future income
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish
• Funeral expenses
• Medical bills before death
• Punitive damages if gross negligence

Time limits apply – contact us immediately to protect your rights.

How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Blanco County?

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

• Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
• Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
• Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys. We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way if necessary.

Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?

NO. We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

An owner-operator is a driver who owns their own truck and contracts with trucking companies. This can complicate liability, but both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.

How do cargo spills create liability?

Cargo spills can create liability for:

• The loading company: For improper securement
• The trucking company: For failing to inspect cargo
• The cargo owner: For providing improper loading instructions
• The truck manufacturer: If securement systems failed

We investigate the entire cargo loading and securement process to identify all liable parties.

What if a tire blowout caused my accident?

Tire blowouts cause 11,000+ crashes yearly, with 738 fatalities in 2017 alone. We investigate:

• Tire maintenance records
• Tire age and wear
• Vehicle weight (overloading)
• Road conditions
• Manufacturing defects

The trucking company may be negligent for not following maintenance protocols.

What if the truck’s dashcam recorded the accident?

Dashcam footage can be powerful evidence, but trucking companies often delete it quickly. We send spoliation letters demanding preservation of all video evidence. If the footage exists, it can show:

• Driver behavior before the crash
• Road conditions
• Traffic patterns
• The actual impact
• Other vehicles’ actions

Can I get the truck’s GPS data?

Yes, GPS data can show:

• The truck’s route and speed
• Stops and duration
• Hours of service compliance
• Location at time of accident

We subpoena all GPS and telematics data to build your case.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, their insurance policy should still cover valid claims. We also investigate other potentially liable parties (loading companies, manufacturers, etc.) to ensure you can still recover compensation.

How are future medical expenses calculated?

We work with:

• Medical experts: To document your future treatment needs
• Life care planners: To develop comprehensive care plans
• Economic experts: To calculate the present value of future expenses

This ensures your settlement accounts for all future medical costs.

What is loss of consortium?

Loss of consortium refers to the impact of your injuries on your marriage and family relationships. Damages may include:

• Loss