18-Wheeler Accidents in Freestone County: Your Guide to Justice and Compensation

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Freestone County, you’re facing one of the most traumatic experiences of your life. The physical pain, emotional distress, and financial burden can feel overwhelming. But you don’t have to face this alone. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we’re here to help Freestone County families get the justice and compensation they deserve.

Why Freestone County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Freestone County’s highways and rural roads present unique challenges for truck drivers and passenger vehicles alike. From the busy US-84 corridor to the agricultural routes serving local farms, our county sees significant commercial truck traffic. These roads, combined with Texas’s extreme weather and the pressure trucking companies put on drivers, create dangerous conditions that too often lead to catastrophic accidents.

The Freestone County Trucking Landscape

Freestone County sits at the intersection of several critical transportation routes:

• US-84: This major east-west corridor connects Fairfield to Mexia and beyond, carrying significant truck traffic including agricultural products, oil field equipment, and consumer goods
• State Highway 14: A vital north-south route that sees heavy truck traffic serving local industries and connecting to I-45
• FM 488 and FM 833: Rural farm-to-market roads where large trucks often share narrow lanes with local traffic
• Agricultural routes: Seasonal truck traffic from local farms and processing facilities

The mix of high-speed highway traffic and slower rural roads creates dangerous transition zones where truck drivers must constantly adjust their speed and awareness. When fatigue, distraction, or improper maintenance enters the equation, the results can be devastating.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Freestone County

Trucking accidents in our county often result from a combination of factors unique to our region:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Texas’s long stretches of highway and the pressure to meet delivery deadlines lead many truck drivers to violate federal hours of service regulations. The FMCSA limits drivers to:

• 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• A 14-hour on-duty window
• A 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
• 60/70 hour weekly limits

Yet in Freestone County, we regularly see drivers pushing these limits, especially during harvest season when agricultural trucks are working around the clock. When drivers operate while fatigued, their reaction times slow, their judgment becomes impaired, and the risk of catastrophic accidents increases dramatically.

Improper Maintenance and Equipment Failures

Freestone County’s rural location means many trucks travel long distances between maintenance facilities. Poor road conditions on farm roads can accelerate wear and tear on critical components. Common maintenance failures we see include:

• Brake failures: Worn brake pads, improper adjustments, or air brake system leaks
• Tire blowouts: Underinflated tires, worn tread, or manufacturing defects
• Lighting failures: Burned-out headlights, brake lights, or turn signals
• Coupling device failures: Improperly secured trailers or faulty fifth wheels

These equipment failures often result from deferred maintenance as trucking companies try to cut costs. When a truck’s brakes fail on US-84 or a tire blows out on FM 488, the consequences can be deadly.

Cargo Securement Violations

Freestone County’s agricultural economy means we see many trucks carrying specialized loads that require proper securement:

• Grain trucks: Improperly secured loads can shift, causing rollovers
• Livestock trailers: Unsecured animals can create dangerous conditions
• Heavy equipment: Farm machinery and oil field equipment requires special securement
• Hazardous materials: Some agricultural chemicals require special handling

The FMCSA’s cargo securement regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) require that cargo be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent shifting that could affect vehicle stability. When these regulations are violated, the results can be catastrophic for other drivers on Freestone County roads.

Distracted and Impaired Driving

Despite strict federal regulations prohibiting mobile phone use (49 CFR § 392.82) and alcohol/drug impairment (49 CFR § 392.4-5), we continue to see distracted and impaired truck drivers on Freestone County roads. The long hours and isolation of trucking can lead drivers to:

• Use cell phones for calls, texts, or navigation
• Eat or drink while driving
• Use dispatch communication systems
• Take prescription or illegal drugs to stay awake
• Consume alcohol during off-duty periods

Speeding and Aggressive Driving

Freestone County’s mix of highway and rural roads creates dangerous speed differentials. Trucks traveling at highway speeds on US-84 must suddenly slow for traffic entering from side roads or farm equipment moving between fields. When drivers fail to adjust their speed appropriately, the results can be deadly.

The Devastating Impact of 18-Wheeler Accidents

The size and weight disparity between an 18-wheeler and a passenger vehicle means that trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. A fully loaded truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds – 20-25 times more than the average car. This disparity creates forces that passenger vehicles simply aren’t designed to withstand.

Common Catastrophic Injuries in Freestone County Trucking Accidents

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The violent forces in a trucking accident can cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull, leading to concussions, contusions, or more severe brain damage. TBI can result in cognitive impairment, memory problems, personality changes, and lifelong disability.

• Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis. In Freestone County, we’ve seen cases where victims have been left quadriplegic or paraplegic after trucking accidents, requiring lifelong care and significant home modifications.

• Amputations: The crushing forces in a trucking accident can sever limbs at the scene or require surgical amputation later. Amputations create lifelong challenges with mobility, employment, and quality of life.

• Severe Burns: Trucking accidents often involve fuel spills that can ignite, causing severe burns. In Freestone County, we’ve handled cases involving burns from both fuel fires and chemical spills from agricultural trucks.

• Internal Organ Damage: The blunt force trauma from a trucking accident can cause internal bleeding, organ rupture, and other life-threatening injuries that may not be immediately apparent.

• Wrongful Death: Tragically, many trucking accidents in Freestone County result in fatalities. When a loved one is killed by a negligent truck driver, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for their loss.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Freestone County Trucking Accident?

One of the most important differences between car accidents and trucking accidents is the number of potentially liable parties. In a typical car accident, you might only sue the other driver. But in a trucking accident, multiple parties may share responsibility:

The Truck Driver

The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable for their negligent conduct, including:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, dispatch communications, etc.)
• Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
• Impaired driving (drugs or alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Violation of traffic laws

The Trucking Company

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets (highest insurance limits) and the most responsibility for safety. Trucking companies can be held liable through:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

• The driver was an employee (not an independent contractor)
• The driver was acting within the scope of employment
• The accident occurred while performing job duties

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent Hiring: Failed to check the driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
• Negligent Training: Inadequate training on safety, cargo securement, or hours of service
• Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance or ELD compliance
• Negligent Maintenance: Failed to maintain vehicles in safe condition
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations

The Cargo Owner or Shipper

The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable for:

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
• Requiring overweight loading
• Pressuring the carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
• Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics

The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo onto trucks may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
• Not training loaders on securement requirements

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

The companies that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for:

• Design defects (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement)
• Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

Parts Manufacturers

Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for:

• Defective brakes or brake components
• Defective tires causing blowouts
• Defective steering mechanisms
• Defective lighting components
• Defective coupling devices

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets may be liable for:

• Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
• Failure to identify critical safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard or wrong parts
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Freight Brokers

Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for:

• Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
• Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
• Failure to check carrier CSA scores
• Selecting the cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, government entities may be liable for:

• Dangerous road design that contributed to the accident
• Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
• Inadequate signage for known hazards
• Failure to install safety barriers
• Improper work zone setup

The Critical Importance of Immediate Action

In Freestone County trucking accident cases, evidence disappears quickly. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act fast, critical evidence will be lost forever.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

At Attorney911, we’ve developed a comprehensive 48-hour protocol to preserve evidence in trucking cases:

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation

Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we send formal spoliation letters to:

• The trucking company
• Their insurance carrier
• All potentially liable parties

This legal notice demands preservation of all evidence related to the accident, including:

Electronic Data:

• Engine Control Module (ECM) / Black Box data
• Event Data Recorder (EDR) data
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
• GPS and telematics data
• Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
• Dispatch communications and messaging
• Cell phone records and text messages
• Qualcomm or fleet management system data

Driver Records:

• Complete Driver Qualification File
• Employment application and resume
• Background check and driving record
• Previous employer verification
• Medical certification and exam records
• Drug and alcohol test results (pre-employment and random)
• Training records and certifications
• Previous accident and violation history
• Performance reviews and disciplinary records

Vehicle Records:

• Maintenance and repair records
• Inspection reports (pre-trip, post-trip, annual)
• Out-of-service orders and repairs
• Tire records and replacement history
• Brake inspection and adjustment records
• Parts purchase and installation records

Company Records:

• Hours of service records for 6 months prior
• Dispatch logs and trip records
• Bills of lading and cargo documentation
• Insurance policies
• Safety policies and procedures
• Training curricula
• Hiring and supervision policies

Physical Evidence:

• The truck and trailer themselves
• Failed or damaged components
• Cargo and securement devices
• Tire remnants if a blowout was involved

2. ECM/Black Box Data Explained

Commercial trucks have sophisticated electronic systems that continuously record operational data – similar to an airplane’s black box. This data can be crucial to proving what happened in your accident:

Types of Electronic Recording Systems:

Critical Data Points We Recover:

• Speed Before Crash: Proves speeding or excessive speed for conditions
• Brake Application: Shows when and how hard brakes were applied
• Throttle Position: Reveals if driver was accelerating or coasting
• Following Distance: Calculated from speed and deceleration data
• Hours of Service: Proves fatigue and HOS violations
• GPS Location: Confirms route and timing
• Fault Codes: May reveal known mechanical issues the driver ignored

Why This Data Wins Cases:

ECM/ELD data is objective and tamper-resistant. It directly contradicts driver claims of “I wasn’t speeding” or “I hit my brakes immediately.” This data has been instrumental in securing multi-million dollar verdicts in trucking cases across Texas.

3. FMCSA Record Retention Requirements

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires trucking companies to retain certain records for specific periods:

Why Our Spoliation Letter Extends These Requirements:

Once we send a preservation demand and litigation is anticipated, the duty to preserve extends beyond these minimum periods. Destroying evidence after receiving our letter can result in:

• Adverse inference instructions (jury told to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable)
• Sanctions and monetary penalties
• Default judgment in extreme cases
• Punitive damages for intentional destruction

How We Build Your Freestone County Trucking Accident Case

At Attorney911, we’ve developed a comprehensive investigation process that leverages our 25+ years of experience fighting trucking companies:

1. Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)

• Accept your case and send preservation letters the same day
• Deploy accident reconstruction experts to the scene if needed
• Obtain the police crash report from the Freestone County Sheriff’s Office
• Photograph your injuries with medical documentation
• Photograph all vehicles before they are repaired or scrapped
• Identify all potentially liable parties

2. Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

• Subpoena ELD/black box data downloads
• Request the driver’s paper log books (backup documentation)
• Obtain the complete Driver Qualification File from the carrier
• Request all truck maintenance and inspection records
• Obtain the carrier’s CSA safety scores and inspection history
• Order the driver’s complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
• Subpoena the driver’s cell phone records
• Obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules

3. Expert Analysis

• Accident Reconstruction: Our experts create a detailed analysis of how the crash occurred
• Medical Experts: We work with physicians to establish causation and future care needs
• Vocational Experts: Calculate lost earning capacity and future employment prospects
• Economic Experts: Determine the present value of all damages
• Life Care Planners: Develop comprehensive care plans for catastrophic injuries
• FMCSA Regulation Experts: Identify all violations of federal trucking regulations

4. Litigation Strategy

• File lawsuit before the 2-year Texas statute of limitations expires
• Pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
• Depose the truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, and maintenance personnel
• Build your case for trial while negotiating settlement from a position of strength
• Prepare every case as if going to trial (this creates leverage in negotiations)

Common FMCSA Violations in Freestone County Trucking Accidents

Federal trucking regulations exist to protect public safety. When trucking companies and drivers violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that lead to catastrophic accidents. These are the most common violations we find in Freestone County trucking cases:

1. Hours of Service Violations

The FMCSA’s hours of service regulations are designed to prevent driver fatigue, which causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. Common violations include:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Driving more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour On-Duty Window: Driving beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• 30-Minute Break Rule: Failing to take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: Driving after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
• 34-Hour Restart: Inadequate rest before restarting the weekly clock
• 10-Hour Off-Duty: Insufficient rest before starting a new driving period

How HOS Violations Strengthen Your Case:

Hours of service violations constitute strong evidence of negligence. When we can prove that a driver was operating while fatigued, it significantly strengthens your claim. The carrier’s CSA scores and pattern of violations can also support claims for punitive damages.

2. False Log Entries

Before electronic logging devices (ELDs) became mandatory in 2017, drivers could easily falsify their paper log books. Even with ELDs, some drivers still attempt to manipulate their records by:

• Logging off-duty time while actually driving
• Claiming breaks that were never taken
• Falsifying location data
• Manipulating duty status

How We Prove False Logs:

We compare ELD data with GPS records, fuel receipts, toll records, and dispatch communications to identify discrepancies. False log entries not only prove negligence but can also support claims for punitive damages.

3. Brake System Deficiencies

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. Common brake violations include:

• Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
• Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
• Air brake system leaks or failures
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Defective brake components
• Failure to conduct pre-trip brake inspections

FMCSA Requirements for Brakes:

• 49 CFR § 393.40-55 establishes specific brake system requirements
• All CMVs must have properly functioning service brakes on all wheels
• Parking/emergency brake systems must be operational
• Brake adjustment must be maintained within specifications

4. Cargo Securement Failures

Cargo securement violations are among the top 10 most common FMCSA violations. When cargo isn’t properly secured:

• Loads can shift, causing rollover accidents
• Cargo can fall onto roadways, creating hazards for other drivers
• Vehicle stability can be compromised

FMCSA Cargo Securement Requirements:

• 49 CFR § 393.100-136 establishes comprehensive cargo securement standards
• Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent shifting
• Securement systems must withstand specific forces (0.8g forward, 0.5g lateral, etc.)
• Specific requirements exist for different cargo types (logs, metal coils, machinery, etc.)

5. Unqualified Drivers

The FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain Driver Qualification Files (DQF) for every driver. Common violations include:

• Hiring drivers without valid CDLs
• Employing drivers with suspended or revoked licenses
• Allowing drivers to operate without current medical certification
• Failing to conduct background checks
• Hiring drivers with poor safety records

FMCSA Driver Qualification Requirements:

• 49 CFR § 391.11 establishes minimum driver qualifications
• Drivers must be at least 21 years old (18 for intrastate)
• Must be able to read and speak English sufficiently
• Must be physically qualified under § 391.41
• Must have a valid CDL
• Must complete a road test or equivalent

6. Drug and Alcohol Violations

The FMCSA has strict regulations prohibiting drug and alcohol use by commercial drivers:

• 49 CFR § 392.4 prohibits use of Schedule I substances
• 49 CFR § 392.5 prohibits alcohol use within 4 hours of driving
• Drivers cannot operate with a BAC of .04 or higher
• Random drug and alcohol testing is required

Consequences of Violations:

When we can prove that a driver was impaired at the time of the accident, it significantly strengthens your case. Drug and alcohol violations can also support claims for punitive damages.

7. Mobile Phone Use

The FMCSA strictly prohibits hand-held mobile phone use by commercial drivers:

• 49 CFR § 392.82 prohibits using a hand-held mobile telephone while driving
• Drivers cannot reach for a mobile phone in a manner requiring leaving the seated position
• Texting while driving is prohibited under 49 CFR § 392.80

Why This Matters:

Distracted driving is a leading cause of trucking accidents. When we can prove that a driver was using a mobile phone at the time of the accident, it provides strong evidence of negligence.

8. Failure to Inspect

Drivers are required to conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections:

• 49 CFR § 396.13 requires drivers to inspect their vehicles before driving
• Drivers must review the last driver vehicle inspection report if defects were noted
• 49 CFR § 396.11 requires drivers to prepare written post-trip reports

What Inspections Must Cover:

• Service brakes
• Parking brake
• Steering mechanism
• Lighting devices and reflectors
• Tires
• Horn
• Windshield wipers
• Rear vision mirrors
• Coupling devices
• Wheels and rims
• Emergency equipment

9. Improper Lighting

Proper lighting is essential for visibility and safety:

• 49 CFR § 393.11-26 establishes lighting requirements
• Headlamps, tail lamps, and stop lamps must be operational
• Clearance and side marker lamps must be functional
• Reflectors and retroreflective sheeting must be in place

Why Lighting Matters:

Poor lighting makes trucks less visible to other drivers, especially at night or in poor weather conditions. When lighting violations contribute to an accident, they provide strong evidence of negligence.

10. Negligent Hiring Practices

Trucking companies can be held directly liable for negligent hiring when they fail to:

• Conduct thorough background checks
• Verify driving records
• Check previous employment history
• Ensure proper medical certification
• Confirm drug and alcohol test results

FMCSA Hiring Requirements:

• 49 CFR § 391.21 establishes requirements for employment applications
• 49 CFR § 391.23 requires investigation of driving records
• 49 CFR § 391.25 requires annual driving record reviews

The Freestone County Legal Process for Trucking Accidents

Navigating the legal process after a trucking accident can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with serious injuries. At Attorney911, we guide our clients through every step of the process, ensuring you understand your rights and options at each stage.

1. Initial Consultation

During your free initial consultation, we’ll:

• Listen to your story and gather details about the accident
• Explain your legal rights and options
• Discuss the potential value of your case
• Explain our contingency fee arrangement (you pay nothing unless we win)
• Answer all your questions about the legal process

2. Investigation and Evidence Preservation

As soon as you retain our firm, we’ll:

• Send spoliation letters to preserve all evidence
• Obtain the police report from the Freestone County Sheriff’s Office
• Collect witness statements
• Preserve ECM/ELD data and other electronic evidence
• Obtain medical records and bills
• Identify all potentially liable parties
• Consult with accident reconstruction experts

3. Medical Treatment and Documentation

We’ll help you:

• Get the medical treatment you need
• Document all injuries and treatment
• Work with your doctors to understand your prognosis
• Calculate future medical expenses
• Coordinate with health insurance and medical providers

4. Demand Letter and Negotiation

Once your medical treatment is complete, we’ll:

• Prepare a comprehensive demand package
• Calculate all economic and non-economic damages
• Send a demand letter to the trucking company’s insurance carrier
• Negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement
• Advise you on whether to accept or reject settlement offers

5. Filing the Lawsuit

If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’ll:

• File a lawsuit in the appropriate court (Freestone County District Court or federal court)
• Serve the defendants with the lawsuit
• Begin the discovery process to gather additional evidence
• Depose witnesses, including the truck driver and company representatives

6. Discovery and Expert Preparation

During the discovery phase, we’ll:

• Request documents from all defendants
• Take depositions of key witnesses
• Work with medical experts to establish causation
• Consult with vocational experts on lost earning capacity
• Prepare accident reconstruction experts to testify
• Identify all FMCSA violations

7. Mediation and Settlement Negotiations

Most trucking accident cases settle before trial. During mediation:

• A neutral mediator facilitates negotiations between the parties
• We’ll present the strengths of your case
• The defendants will present their defenses
• We’ll negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement
• You’ll have the final say on whether to accept any settlement offer

8. Trial Preparation

If your case doesn’t settle, we’ll prepare for trial by:

• Finalizing expert witness testimony
• Preparing exhibits and visual aids
• Conducting mock trials to refine our arguments
• Preparing you to testify
• Developing a comprehensive trial strategy

9. Trial

If your case goes to trial, we’ll:

• Present opening statements
• Call witnesses and present evidence
• Cross-examine the defendants’ witnesses
• Present closing arguments
• Let the jury decide your case

10. Post-Trial Proceedings

After trial, we’ll:

• Help you collect your judgment
• Handle any appeals if necessary
• Ensure you receive all compensation you’re entitled to

What Compensation Can You Recover in a Freestone County Trucking Accident Case?

Texas law allows trucking accident victims to recover both economic and non-economic damages. In cases involving gross negligence, punitive damages may also be available.

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

• Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs related to your injuries
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to your injuries and recovery period
• Lost Earning Capacity: Reduction in your ability to earn income in the future
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle and other damaged property
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, etc.
• Life Care Costs: Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain from your injuries
• Mental Anguish: Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression
• Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in activities you enjoyed before the accident
• Disfigurement: Scarring, visible injuries, or permanent changes to your appearance
• Loss of Consortium: Impact on your marriage and family relationships
• Physical Impairment: Reduced physical capabilities

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company or driver acted with:

• Gross negligence
• Willful misconduct
• Conscious indifference to safety
• Fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence)

Texas law caps punitive damages at the greater of:

• Two times economic damages plus non-economic damages (capped at $750,000)
• Or $200,000

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Freestone County Trucking Accident Case?

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team of experienced advocates who will fight for your rights. At Attorney911, we offer:

25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been representing trucking accident victims since 1998. With over 25 years of experience, he’s secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of the largest trucking companies in America, including:

• Walmart trucking operations
• Coca-Cola distribution vehicles
• Amazon delivery trucks
• FedEx trucks
• UPS trucks
• Various commercial trucking companies

Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is crucial for trucking cases, which often involve interstate commerce and federal regulations.

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes former insurance defense attorneys who know exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage in negotiations and litigation.

Comprehensive Resources

We have the resources to handle complex trucking cases, including:

• Accident reconstruction experts
• Medical experts
• Vocational experts
• Economic experts
• Life care planners
• FMCSA regulation experts

Aggressive Representation

We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This aggressive approach creates leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready to fight for you in court if necessary.

Compassionate Client Service

We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a trucking accident can take on your family. We treat every client with compassion and respect, keeping you informed throughout the legal process.

Proven Results

Our track record speaks for itself:

• $5+ million settlement for a logging accident victim with traumatic brain injury and vision loss
• $3.8+ million settlement for a car accident victim who suffered a partial leg amputation
• $2.5+ million recovery for a truck crash victim
• $2+ million settlement for a maritime worker with a back injury
• Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases

Bilingual Services

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, allowing us to serve Freestone County’s Hispanic community directly without interpreters.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Freestone County

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Freestone County, taking the right steps immediately can protect your health and your legal rights:

1. Call 911

Report the accident to law enforcement immediately. In Freestone County, you can call:

• Freestone County Sheriff’s Office: (903) 389-6033
• Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): (903) 389-6033

2. Seek Medical Attention

Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, seek medical attention immediately. Many injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.

Freestone County medical facilities include:

• Freestone Medical Center (Fairfield): (903) 389-3811
• Navarro Regional Hospital (Corsicana): (903) 654-6800
• Baylor Scott & White Medical Center (Hillcrest, Waco): (254) 202-2000

3. Document the Scene

If you’re able, document the accident scene by:

• Taking photos of all vehicle damage
• Photographing the accident scene, road conditions, and skid marks
• Getting the truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
• Collecting witness names and phone numbers
• Noting the responding officer’s name and badge number
• Documenting weather and road conditions

4. Preserve Evidence

Do not let the trucking company take possession of:

• The truck and trailer
• The driver’s log books
• Any failed components (tires, brakes, etc.)
• Cargo and securement devices

5. Do Not Give Statements

Do not give recorded statements to any insurance company without consulting an attorney first. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize your claim.

6. Contact an Attorney Immediately

The most critical step is to contact an experienced trucking accident attorney as soon as possible. Evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly, and early action is essential to preserve your rights.

Common Questions About Freestone County Trucking Accidents

How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Freestone County?

Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. This means you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

How much is my Freestone County trucking accident case worth?

The value of your case depends on many factors, including:

• The severity of your injuries
• The cost of your medical treatment (past and future)
• Your lost income and earning capacity
• The degree of the trucking company’s negligence
• The available insurance coverage
• The impact on your quality of life

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical drivers – often $750,000 to $5 million or more. This higher coverage allows for larger recoveries than typical car accident cases.

Will my case go to trial?

Most trucking accident cases settle before trial. However, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This aggressive approach creates leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready to fight for you in court if necessary.

How long will my case take to resolve?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of your case:

• Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
• Moderate cases with disputed liability: 12-24 months
• Complex cases with catastrophic injuries: 2-4 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while ensuring you receive full and fair compensation.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation as long as you were not more than 50% at fault. However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault and your damages totaled $1 million, you would recover $800,000.

Can I still recover compensation if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Yes. Even if the driver was an independent contractor, both the driver and the trucking company may be liable. We’ll investigate the relationship between the driver and the company to determine all potentially liable parties.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Many trucking companies carry excess insurance policies that provide additional coverage beyond their primary policy. We’ll investigate all available insurance coverage to ensure you can recover the compensation you deserve.

Can I recover compensation for pain and suffering?

Yes. Texas law allows you to recover compensation for both physical pain and emotional suffering caused by your injuries. This includes:

• Physical pain from your injuries
• Emotional distress and anxiety
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement and scarring
• Loss of consortium (impact on your marriage)

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

If your loved one was killed in a trucking accident, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim. Texas law allows surviving family members to recover compensation for:

• 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
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

How much does it cost to hire a trucking accident attorney?

At Attorney911, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means:

• You pay nothing upfront
• We advance all costs of investigation and litigation
• You pay nothing unless we win your case
• Our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket

Our standard contingency fee is 33.33% for pre-trial settlements and 40% if the case goes to trial.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Freestone County, don’t wait to seek legal help. Evidence is disappearing every day, and the trucking company’s insurance adjusters are already working to protect their interests.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our Freestone County trucking accident attorneys are available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you understand your legal options.

Remember: Hablamos Español. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and can provide direct representation without interpreters.

At Attorney911, we treat every client like family. We’ll fight aggressively to hold the trucking company accountable and secure the compensation you deserve. Don’t let the trucking company take advantage of you – call us today and let us fight for your rights.

Your fight for justice starts with one call: 1-888-ATTY-911.