18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Burnet County, Texas
Every year, thousands of families in Central Texas face life-changing consequences from 18-wheeler accidents on our highways. If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in Burnet County, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team that understands the unique challenges of Central Texas trucking corridors, the federal regulations that govern the trucking industry, and how to hold negligent trucking companies fully accountable.
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Burnet County and throughout Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by catastrophic 18-wheeler crashes. When you call us at 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re getting Burnet County’s trucking accident specialists – not just another law firm.
Why Burnet County Trucking Accidents Are Different
Burnet County sits at the crossroads of major Texas trucking corridors, with Highway 281, US 29, and numerous state highways carrying heavy commercial traffic. The scenic Hill Country roads that attract tourists and residents alike also create unique hazards for truck drivers navigating tight curves, steep grades, and unpredictable weather conditions.
Our team knows Burnet County’s trucking routes intimately:
- Highway 281 – The primary north-south route through Burnet County, connecting to I-35 and carrying heavy truck traffic between San Antonio and Waco
- US 29 – An important east-west corridor linking Burnet to Llano and the Highland Lakes area
- FM 963 and FM 2341 – Rural routes with limited shoulders that create challenges for large trucks
- The distribution centers and warehouses in Burnet, Marble Falls, and surrounding areas that generate significant local truck traffic
- The truck stops and weigh stations where drivers may be violating federal hours-of-service regulations
This local knowledge, combined with our deep understanding of FMCSA regulations, gives us a significant advantage when building your case.
The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents
When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. The physics of these crashes make severe injuries almost inevitable:
- A fully loaded 18-wheeler is 20-25 times heavier than the average passenger car
- At 65 mph, a truck needs nearly 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields
- The height of truck trailers often causes underride collisions where passenger vehicles slide underneath
- Cargo spills can create secondary accidents and hazardous conditions
Common catastrophic injuries we see in Burnet County trucking accidents include:
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) – From mild concussions to severe brain damage requiring lifelong care
- Spinal Cord Injuries – Often resulting in paraplegia or quadriplegia
- Amputations – Crushed limbs that require surgical removal
- Severe Burns – From fuel fires or hazardous material spills
- Internal Organ Damage – Life-threatening injuries that may not be immediately apparent
- Wrongful Death – Leaving families devastated and facing financial uncertainty
The lifetime costs of these injuries can easily exceed $1 million, and in many cases reach $5-10 million or more. That’s why it’s critical to work with attorneys who have experience recovering multi-million dollar verdicts for trucking accident victims.
How Trucking Companies Try to Avoid Responsibility
Within hours of a serious accident, trucking companies deploy rapid-response teams to protect their interests. Their goals are clear:
- Destroy or hide evidence – Black box data can be overwritten, dashcam footage deleted
- Shift blame to the victim – Insurance adjusters will try to find any reason to deny your claim
- Offer quick, lowball settlements – Before you understand the full extent of your injuries
- Delay the claims process – Hoping you’ll give up or accept less than you deserve
At Attorney911, we move just as fast to protect your rights. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows every tactic the trucking companies will use against you. We’ve seen how they operate from the inside, and now we use that knowledge to fight for maximum compensation for our clients.
Our 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol
In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears quickly. That’s why we have a strict 48-hour protocol to preserve critical evidence:
Within 24 Hours:
- Send formal spoliation letters to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties
- Demand immediate download of all ECM/black box data
- Secure ELD records to prove hours-of-service violations
- Obtain dashcam footage before it’s deleted
- Preserve GPS and telematics data
Within 48 Hours:
- Photograph all vehicles before they’re repaired or scrapped
- Collect police crash reports and 911 call recordings
- Interview witnesses before memories fade
- Canvass accident scene for security camera footage
- Obtain driver qualification files and maintenance records
Critical Evidence We Preserve:
| Evidence Type | What It Shows | Destruction Risk |
|---|---|---|
| ECM/Black Box Data | Speed, braking, throttle position, fault codes | Overwrites in 30 days |
| ELD Records | Hours of service, driving time, rest breaks | Retained only 6 months |
| Dashcam Footage | Actual accident footage, driver behavior | Often deleted within 7-14 days |
| Driver Qualification File | Hiring practices, training, background checks | Can be “lost” or altered |
| Maintenance Records | Vehicle condition, deferred repairs | Often incomplete or missing |
| Cargo Manifests | Load weight, securement methods | May be discarded |
| Cell Phone Records | Distracted driving evidence | Requires subpoena |
| Drug/Alcohol Tests | Impairment at time of accident | Must be conducted promptly |
“Every hour you wait, evidence in your Burnet County trucking accident case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. Call Attorney911 NOW at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence.”
The FMCSA Regulations That Prove Negligence
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations create a legal framework that protects all of us on Burnet County’s highways. When trucking companies violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that lead to catastrophic accidents. These regulations are your strongest evidence of negligence.
Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395)
Fatigued driving is one of the leading causes of trucking accidents. FMCSA regulations limit how long drivers can operate:
| Rule | Requirement | Violation Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 11-Hour Driving Limit | Max 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty | Fatigue-related accidents |
| 14-Hour Duty Window | Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty | Driver exhaustion |
| 30-Minute Break | Mandatory break after 8 cumulative hours of driving | Impaired alertness |
| 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit | 60 hours in 7 days OR 70 hours in 8 days | Cumulative fatigue |
| 34-Hour Restart | Can restart 60/70-hour clock with 34 consecutive hours off | Inadequate recovery |
How We Prove HOS Violations:
- Obtain ELD records showing driving time
- Review paper logs (if still used) for falsification
- Analyze dispatch records for schedule pressure
- Check GPS data for actual driving patterns
- Interview coworkers about company culture
Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391)
Trucking companies must carefully vet their drivers:
| Requirement | Violation Example | Liability Created |
|---|---|---|
| Valid CDL | Expired license, wrong class | Negligent entrustment |
| Medical Certification | Expired or falsified medical card | Negligent hiring |
| Background Check | Failure to check driving record | Negligent hiring |
| Previous Employer Verification | No contact with past employers | Negligent hiring |
| Drug/Alcohol Testing | No pre-employment test | Negligent hiring |
| Training Records | No documented training | Negligent training |
The Driver Qualification File Must Contain:
- Employment application
- Motor vehicle record from state
- Road test certificate
- Medical examiner’s certificate
- Annual driving record review
- Previous employer inquiries
- Drug/alcohol test results
Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396)
Proper maintenance is critical for safety:
| System | Common Violations | Accident Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Brakes | Worn pads, improper adjustment, leaks | Brake failure accidents |
| Tires | Bald tires, improper inflation, mismatched duals | Blowouts and rollovers |
| Lights | Non-functioning headlights, brake lights, turn signals | Reduced visibility |
| Steering | Worn components, loose connections | Loss of control |
| Suspension | Broken springs, worn shocks | Vehicle instability |
| Coupling Devices | Worn or improperly secured fifth wheels | Trailer separation |
Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR Part 393)
Improperly secured cargo causes accidents:
| Requirement | Violation | Accident Type |
|---|---|---|
| Working Load Limits | Insufficient tiedowns | Cargo shift, rollover |
| Number of Tiedowns | Too few for load length/weight | Cargo spill |
| Load Distribution | Uneven weight distribution | Rollovers, jackknifes |
| Blocking/Bracing | No load containment | Cargo movement |
| Tarping | Loose or missing tarps | Debris on roadway |
All the Parties We Hold Accountable
In 18-wheeler accident cases, multiple parties may share responsibility. We investigate every potential defendant to maximize your recovery:
- The Truck Driver – For negligent operation, fatigue, distraction, or impairment
- The Trucking Company – For negligent hiring, training, supervision, and maintenance
- The Cargo Owner/Shipper – For improper loading instructions or hazardous cargo
- The Loading Company – For improper cargo securement
- The Truck Manufacturer – For defective design or manufacturing
- The Parts Manufacturer – For defective components (brakes, tires, steering)
- The Maintenance Company – For negligent repairs or inspections
- The Freight Broker – For negligent carrier selection
- The Truck Owner – For negligent entrustment (if different from carrier)
- Government Entities – For dangerous road design or maintenance
“Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for a national defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation for our clients.”
The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Burnet County Trucking Accidents
The size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles means trucking accidents often result in life-altering injuries:
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
TBI occurs when the brain is damaged by external forces. In trucking accidents, this often happens when:
- The head strikes the steering wheel, dashboard, or window
- The brain impacts the inside of the skull during sudden deceleration
- The vehicle rolls over or is crushed
TBI Severity Levels:
| Level | Symptoms | Prognosis |
|---|---|---|
| Mild (Concussion) | Brief loss of consciousness, headache, confusion, dizziness | Usually full recovery, but may have lingering effects |
| Moderate | Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits | Significant recovery possible with rehabilitation |
| Severe | Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment | Lifelong disability, may require 24/7 care |
Lifetime Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord damage often results in permanent paralysis:
| Type | Definition | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Paraplegia | Loss of function below the waist | Cannot walk, may affect bladder/bowel control |
| Quadriplegia | Loss of function in all four limbs | Cannot walk or use arms, may need breathing assistance |
| Incomplete Injury | Some nerve function remains | Variable – may have some sensation or movement |
| Complete Injury | No nerve function below injury | Total loss of sensation and movement |
Lifetime Costs:
- Paraplegia (low): $1.1 million+
- Paraplegia (high): $2.5 million+
- Quadriplegia (low): $3.5 million+
- Quadriplegia (high): $5 million+
Amputations
Amputations result from:
- Crushing injuries from truck impact
- Entrapment requiring surgical amputation
- Severe burns requiring surgical removal
- Infections from open wounds
Ongoing Medical Needs:
- Initial surgery and hospitalization
- Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ per prosthetic)
- Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Occupational therapy for daily living skills
- Psychological counseling
Severe Burns
Burns occur from:
- Fuel tank ruptures and fires
- Hazmat cargo spills and ignition
- Electrical fires from battery/wiring damage
- Friction burns from road contact
- Chemical burns from hazmat exposure
Burn Classification:
| Degree | Depth | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| First | Epidermis only | Minor, heals without scarring |
| Second | Epidermis and dermis | May scar, may need grafting |
| Third | Full thickness | Requires skin grafts, permanent scarring |
| Fourth | Through skin to muscle/bone | Multiple surgeries, amputation may be required |
Lifetime Costs: $100,000 to $10,000,000+
Wrongful Death
When trucking accidents claim lives, surviving family members may recover:
- Lost future income and benefits
- Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
- Mental anguish and emotional suffering
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses incurred before death
- Pain and suffering experienced by the decedent before death
- Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)
The Multi-Million Dollar Results We’ve Achieved
At Attorney911, we’ve recovered millions of dollars for trucking accident victims across Texas. While every case is unique, our results demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable:
- $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
“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client
These results are possible because trucking companies carry high insurance limits:
| Cargo Type | Minimum Coverage |
|---|---|
| Non-Hazardous Freight | $750,000 |
| Oil/Petroleum | $1,000,000 |
| Large Equipment | $1,000,000 |
| Hazardous Materials | $5,000,000 |
| Passengers (16+) | $5,000,000 |
| Passengers (15 or fewer) | $1,500,000 |
Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more in coverage, allowing for substantial recoveries when catastrophic injuries occur.
The Nuclear Verdict Trend in Trucking Cases
Recent years have seen unprecedented jury verdicts against trucking companies:
| Amount | Year | Location | Case Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| $730 Million | 2021 | Texas | Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman |
| $462 Million | 2024 | Missouri | Underride crash with two fatalities |
| $160 Million | 2024 | Alabama | Rollover left driver quadriplegic |
| $150 Million | 2022 | Texas | Werner settlement for two children killed on I-30 |
| $141.5 Million | 2023 | Florida | Defunct carrier case |
| $1 Billion | 2021 | Florida | 18-year-old killed, $100M compensatory + $900M punitive |
These verdicts reflect juries’ willingness to hold trucking companies accountable when they prioritize profits over safety. The average trucking verdict now exceeds $27 million, with nuclear verdicts (over $10 million) becoming increasingly common.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Burnet County Trucking Case
When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team with specific expertise in trucking litigation. Here’s why Burnet County families choose Attorney911:
1. Deep Trucking Industry Knowledge
Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers operate. We’ve seen their tactics from the inside and know how to counter them.
2. Federal Court Experience
Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for interstate trucking cases that often involve federal regulations and multiple jurisdictions.
3. Proven Multi-Million Dollar Results
We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims across Texas. Our results demonstrate our ability to secure maximum compensation for catastrophic injuries.
4. Bilingual Services
Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español. This is particularly important for Burnet County’s Hispanic community, many of whom work in the trucking industry.
“Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.”
— Celia Dominguez, Attorney911 Client
5. Immediate Evidence Preservation
We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage, and other critical evidence before it’s destroyed.
6. Comprehensive Investigation
Our team includes accident reconstruction experts, medical specialists, and vocational experts who help build the strongest possible case for maximum compensation.
7. Personal Attention
Unlike large billboard firms that treat you like a case number, we treat our clients like family:
“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client
8. No Upfront Costs
We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation, so you never receive a bill from us.
The 18-Wheeler Accident Types We Handle in Burnet County
Our team has experience with all types of trucking accidents that occur on Burnet County’s highways:
Jackknife Accidents
Jackknifes occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes. Common causes include:
- Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
- Speeding, especially on curves
- Empty or lightly loaded trailers
- Improperly loaded cargo
- Brake system failures
- Driver inexperience
Underride Collisions
Underride accidents are among the most deadly, occurring when a passenger vehicle slides underneath a trailer. Types include:
- Rear Underride: Vehicle strikes back of trailer
- Side Underride: Vehicle impacts side of trailer during lane changes or turns
Federal law requires rear impact guards on trailers manufactured after January 26, 1998, but many older trailers still lack adequate protection. There is currently no federal requirement for side underride guards.
Rollover Accidents
Rollovers occur when a truck tips onto its side or roof. Common causes include:
- Speeding on curves (especially on Highway 281’s tight turns)
- Top-heavy loads
- Improperly secured cargo
- Overcorrection after running off road
- Driver fatigue
- Brake failures
Tire Blowout Accidents
Tire failures cause thousands of trucking accidents annually. Common causes include:
- Underinflated tires
- Overloaded vehicles
- Worn or aging tires
- Road debris
- Manufacturing defects
- Improper tire matching on dual wheels
Brake Failure Accidents
Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. Common causes include:
- Worn brake pads or shoes
- Improper brake adjustment
- Air brake system leaks
- Overheated brakes on long descents
- Contaminated brake fluid
- Defective brake components
Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents
Improperly secured cargo creates multiple hazards:
- Cargo Shift: Load moves during transit, destabilizing truck
- Cargo Spill: Load falls from truck onto roadway
- Hazmat Spill: Hazardous materials leak or spill
FMCSA regulations require specific securement methods based on cargo type, weight, and length.
Blind Spot Accidents
Trucks have four major blind spots (No-Zones):
- Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
- Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
- Left Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward
- Right Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward, much larger than left
Wide Turn Accidents
Trucks must swing wide to complete turns, creating hazards:
- Vehicles may enter the gap created by the wide turn
- Truck completes turn, crushing vehicle in the gap
- Common at intersections and tight turns
Rear-End Collisions
Due to their massive weight, trucks cause devastating rear-end collisions:
- Require 40% more stopping distance than cars
- At 65 mph, need approximately 525 feet to stop
- Common causes: following too closely, distraction, fatigue
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are often fatal due to combined impact forces:
- Wrong-way driving on divided highways
- Median crossovers
- Driver falling asleep at the wheel
- Medical emergencies
- Overcorrection after running off road
What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Burnet County
If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Burnet County, take these steps to protect your rights:
- Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out immediately
- Document the Scene – Take photos and videos of:
- All vehicle damage
- The accident scene and road conditions
- Skid marks and debris
- Traffic signals and signs
- Your injuries
- Collect Information – Get:
- Truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
- Trucking company name and DOT number
- Witness names and contact information
- Police officer’s name and badge number
- Do NOT Give Statements – Don’t speak to insurance adjusters without your attorney present
- Call Attorney911 Immediately – 1-888-ATTY-911
“One moment, you’re driving to work on Burnet County’s highways. The next, an 18-wheeler is jackknifing across three lanes. Before the ambulance arrives, the trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests. You need an attorney who moves just as fast.”
The Attorney911 Difference
When you choose Attorney911 for your Burnet County trucking accident case, you’re getting:
- 25+ years of experience fighting for injury victims
- Federal court admission to handle interstate trucking cases
- A former insurance defense attorney who knows their tactics
- Immediate evidence preservation to protect your case
- Multi-million dollar results for trucking accident victims
- Bilingual services for Burnet County’s Hispanic community
- Personal attention – you’re family, not a case number
- No upfront costs – we only get paid if we win
Our Burnet County Trucking Accident Legal Process
- Free Consultation – We evaluate your case and explain your options
- Immediate Investigation – We send spoliation letters and preserve evidence
- Case Acceptance – We agree to represent you on contingency
- Medical Care Facilitation – We help you get the treatment you need
- Demand Letter – We send a comprehensive demand to the insurance company
- Negotiation – We negotiate aggressively for maximum compensation
- Litigation (if needed) – We file a lawsuit and prepare for trial
- Resolution – We achieve the best possible outcome for your case
Frequently Asked Questions About Burnet County Trucking Accidents
What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Burnet County?
If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Burnet 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. Burnet County hospitals like Seton Highland Lakes Hospital and Scott & White Medical Center – Marble Falls 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 in Burnet County?
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 Burnet 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 Burnet 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 were 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 an owner-operator and does that affect my case?
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 I find out if the trucking company has a bad safety record?
FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain the carrier’s:
- CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
- Inspection history and out-of-service rates
- Crash history
- Safety rating
A poor safety record can prove the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on the road.
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.
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.
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
- Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
- 30-minute break required after 8 hours driving
- 60/70 hour weekly limits
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.
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.
What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in Burnet County?
Due to the massive size and weight disparity, trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Amputations
- Severe burns
- Internal organ damage
- Multiple fractures
- Wrongful death
How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Burnet 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 Burnet 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
- 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 Burnet 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.
How much insurance do trucking companies carry?
Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:
- $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
- $1,000,000 for oil, large equipment
- $5,000,000 for hazardous materials
Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.
What if multiple insurance policies apply to my accident?
Trucking cases often involve multiple policies:
- Motor carrier’s liability policy
- Trailer interchange coverage
- Cargo insurance
- Owner-operator’s policy
- Excess/umbrella coverage
We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.
Will the trucking company’s insurance try to settle quickly?
Often yes – and that’s a red flag. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.
Burnet County Trucking Accident Resources
Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers
- Seton Highland Lakes Hospital – 3201 S Water St, Burnet, TX 78611
- Scott & White Medical Center – Marble Falls – 800 W Highway 71, Marble Falls, TX 78654
- Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Round Rock – 300 University Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665 (Level II Trauma Center)
- Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas – 1500 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701 (Level I Trauma Center)
Burnet County Law Enforcement
- Burnet County Sheriff’s Office – 1701 E Washington St, Burnet, TX 78611
- Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) – State Highway 29, Burnet, TX 78611
Burnet County Courts
- Burnet County Courthouse – 220 S Pierce St, Burnet, TX 78611
- 33rd Judicial District Court (Handles civil cases including personal injury)
Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)
- TxDOT Austin District – 7901 N IH 35, Austin, TX 78753
- TxDOT Crash Records Information System (CRIS) – Provides accident reports
Burnet County Trucking Corridors
- Highway 281 – Primary north-south route through Burnet County
- US 29 – Important east-west corridor
- FM 963 – Connects Burnet to Bertram and Liberty Hill
- FM 2341 – Links Burnet to Marble Falls
- Highway 71 – Major route to Austin and the Hill Country
Contact Attorney911 Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Burnet County, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every hour. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect their interests – you need someone protecting yours.
Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and start protecting your rights.
“Our managing partner Ralph Manginello leads Attorney911 with 25+ years of experience, supported by associate attorney Lupe Peña, whose insurance defense background gives our team insider knowledge of how trucking insurers operate. When you call us, you’re getting Burnet County’s trucking accident specialists.”
Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratuita.
Attorney911 – Fighting for Burnet County’s Trucking Accident Victims
1-888-ATTY-911 | ralph@atty911.com | https://attorney911.com