18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Hansford County: Holding Trucking Companies Accountable

Every year, hundreds of families in Hansford County and across the Texas Panhandle experience the devastating consequences of 18-wheeler accidents. When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic – traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, and wrongful death. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in Hansford County, you need experienced legal representation that understands the unique challenges of commercial vehicle litigation.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims throughout Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of the largest trucking companies in America. We know Hansford County’s highways, we understand the trucking corridors that serve our region, and we have the resources to take on even the most powerful corporate defendants.

Why Hansford County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Hansford County sits at a critical juncture of major trucking routes that serve the Texas Panhandle and beyond. Our position along U.S. Highway 83 and proximity to Interstate 40 creates unique risks for local drivers:

• Agricultural freight: Hansford County’s farming economy generates significant grain, cattle, and equipment trucking
• Oil and gas transport: The energy industry creates heavy truck traffic carrying drilling equipment, fuel, and hazardous materials
• Long-haul corridors: Trucks traveling between Amarillo, Liberal, and points north and south pass through our county
• Seasonal variations: Harvest seasons and energy market fluctuations affect truck traffic patterns
• Weather challenges: High winds, sudden storms, and winter conditions create additional hazards

These factors combine to make Hansford County’s roads particularly dangerous for passenger vehicles sharing the road with large commercial trucks.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents

The physics of trucking accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm rather than the exception:

• Size and weight disparity: A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh 20-25 times more than a passenger car
• Impact force: An 80,000-pound truck traveling at 65 mph carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a car
• Stopping distance: At 65 mph, an 18-wheeler needs nearly 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields
• Trailer dynamics: The trailer can swing independently, creating jackknife and rollover hazards

Common injuries we see in Hansford County trucking accidents include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): From mild concussions to severe, life-altering brain damage
• Spinal cord injuries: Often resulting in paralysis (paraplegia or quadriplegia)
• Amputations: Limbs crushed or severed in the collision
• Severe burns: From fuel tank ruptures or hazardous material spills
• Internal organ damage: Liver, spleen, kidney, and lung injuries
• Wrongful death: Tragically common in high-speed trucking collisions

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Hansford County

Our experience handling trucking cases throughout the Texas Panhandle has revealed several recurring causes of commercial vehicle accidents:

1. Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Federal regulations limit truck drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, with strict limits on weekly driving hours. Yet fatigue remains a leading cause of trucking accidents in Hansford County. Drivers and trucking companies frequently violate these rules due to:

• Pressure from dispatchers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules
• Financial incentives for faster deliveries
• Long distances between truck stops in rural areas
• Inadequate rest facilities for drivers in the Panhandle

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 395.3 (Hours of Service)

2. Distracted Driving

Truck drivers face numerous distractions that can lead to catastrophic accidents:

• Cell phone use: Texting, talking, or using apps while driving
• Dispatch communications: Electronic messaging systems in the cab
• Navigation devices: GPS units that require manual input
• In-cab entertainment: Radios, tablets, or other electronic devices
• Eating and drinking: Meals consumed while driving

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 392.82 (Prohibition on texting while driving)

3. Improper Cargo Securement

Shifting or falling cargo causes numerous accidents on Hansford County roads:

• Agricultural products: Grain, hay, or livestock that shift during transport
• Oilfield equipment: Heavy machinery not properly secured
• Building materials: Lumber, steel, or other construction loads
• Hazardous materials: Spills that create additional dangers

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 393.100-136 (Cargo securement standards)

4. Brake Failures

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

• Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
• Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
• Air brake system leaks or failures
• Overheated brakes from long descents
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Defective brake components

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 393.48 (Brake system requirements)

5. Tire Blowouts

Tire failures cause thousands of trucking accidents annually. Common causes in Hansford County include:

• 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

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 393.75 (Tire requirements)

6. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Trucks making right turns often swing wide to the left, creating a dangerous gap that smaller vehicles may enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing or striking the vehicle that entered the gap.

7. Blind Spot Collisions (“No-Zone”)

18-wheelers have four major blind spots where the driver cannot see other vehicles:

1. Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
2. Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
3. Left Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward
4. Right Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward – the largest and most dangerous blind spot

8. Underride Collisions

Underride accidents occur when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of an 18-wheeler and slides underneath the trailer. These are among the most deadly types of trucking accidents, often resulting in decapitation or catastrophic head and neck injuries.

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

18-wheeler accidents are fundamentally different from car accidents because MULTIPLE parties can be responsible for your injuries. Unlike a simple car crash where usually only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve a web of companies and individuals who all contributed to the dangerous conditions that caused the crash.

1. 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, texting, dispatch communications)
• Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Violation of traffic laws
• Failure to yield, improper lane changes, running red lights

2. The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets (highest insurance) and the most responsibility for safety.

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

• The driver was an employee (not independent contractor)
• Acting within the scope of employment
• Performing job duties when accident occurred

Direct Negligence:

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

3. The Cargo Owner / 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 carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
• Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics

4. 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

5. The Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

The company that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for defects including:

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

6. Parts Manufacturer

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

7. Maintenance Company

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

8. Freight Broker

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

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

9. Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may have separate liability for:

• Negligent entrustment of vehicle
• Failure to maintain owned equipment
• Knowledge of driver’s unfitness

10. Government Entity

Federal, state, or local government may be liable in limited circumstances for:

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

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

In 18-wheeler accident cases, EVIDENCE DISAPPEARS FAST. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act quickly, critical evidence will be lost forever.

Why 48 Hours Matters

The Spoliation Letter

A spoliation letter is a formal legal notice sent to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence related to the accident.

Why It Matters:

• Puts defendants on legal notice of their preservation obligation
• Creates serious consequences if evidence is destroyed
• Courts can impose sanctions, adverse inferences, or even default judgment for spoliation
• The sooner sent, the more weight it carries

When We Send It:
IMMEDIATELY – within 24-48 hours of being retained. We don’t wait.

What the Spoliation Letter Demands

Electronic Data:

• Engine Control Module (ECM) / Electronic Control Unit (ECU) 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 blowout involved

ECM/Black Box Data: The Truth Behind the Crash

Commercial trucks have electronic systems that continuously record operational data – similar to an airplane’s black box but for trucks.

Types of Electronic Recording Systems

Critical Data Points

• 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 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 led to multi-million dollar verdicts in trucking cases.

FMCSA Regulations: The Legal Foundation of Your Case

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates ALL commercial motor vehicles operating in interstate commerce. These regulations are codified in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR), Parts 300-399.

The 6 Critical Parts of FMCSA Regulations

Most Commonly Violated Regulations in Hansford County Trucking Accidents

1. Hours of Service Violations – Driving beyond 11-hour limit, no breaks
2. False Log Entries – Falsifying ELD or paper log records
3. Brake System Deficiencies – Worn brakes, improper adjustment
4. Cargo Securement Failures – Inadequate tiedowns, shifting loads
5. Drug and Alcohol Violations – Operating under influence
6. Unqualified Drivers – No valid CDL or medical certificate
7. Failure to Inspect Vehicles – No pre-trip inspections, ignored defects
8. Improper Lighting – Non-functioning lights, missing reflectors
9. Negligent Hiring – No background check, incomplete DQ file
10. Mobile Phone Use – Texting while driving

Catastrophic Injuries from Hansford County Trucking Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Cause Catastrophic Injuries

Size and Weight Disparity:

• Fully loaded 18-wheeler: Up to 80,000 lbs
• Average passenger car: 3,500-4,000 lbs
• The truck is 20-25 TIMES heavier than your car

Impact Force:

• Force = Mass × Acceleration
• An 80,000 lb truck at 65 mph carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a car
• This energy transfers to the smaller vehicle in a crash

Stopping Distance:

• 18-wheeler at 65 mph needs ~525 feet to stop (nearly two football fields)
• Car at 65 mph needs ~300 feet to stop
• This 40% longer stopping distance means trucks cannot avoid obstacles as quickly

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

What It Is:
TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In 18-wheeler accidents, the extreme forces cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull.

Severity Levels:

Common Symptoms:

• Headaches, dizziness, nausea
• Memory loss, confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes, depression, anxiety
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
• Speech difficulties
• Personality changes

Long-Term Consequences:

• Permanent cognitive impairment
• Inability to work
• Need for ongoing care and supervision
• Increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s
• Depression and emotional disorders

Lifetime Care Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity

Spinal Cord Injury

What It Is:
Damage to the spinal cord that disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of Paralysis:

Level of Injury Matters:

• Higher injuries (cervical spine) affect more body functions
• C1-C4 injuries may require ventilator for breathing
• Lower injuries (lumbar) affect legs but not arms

Lifetime Care Costs:

• Paraplegia (low): $1.1 million+
• Paraplegia (high): $2.5 million+
• Quadriplegia (low): $3.5 million+
• Quadriplegia (high): $5 million+

These figures represent direct medical costs only – not lost wages, pain and suffering, or loss of quality of life.

Amputation

Types of Amputation:

• Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the scene due to crash forces
• Surgical Amputation: Limb so severely damaged it must be surgically removed

Common in 18-Wheeler Accidents Due To:

• Crushing forces from truck impact
• Entrapment requiring amputation for extraction
• 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

Impact on Life:

• Permanent disability
• Career limitations or total disability
• Phantom limb pain
• Body image and psychological trauma
• Need for home modifications
• Dependency on others for daily activities

Severe Burns

How Burns Occur in 18-Wheeler Accidents:

• Fuel tank rupture and fire
• Hazmat cargo spills and ignition
• Electrical fires from battery/wiring damage
• Friction burns from road contact
• Chemical burns from hazmat exposure

Burn Classification:

Long-Term Consequences:

• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Multiple reconstructive surgeries
• Skin graft procedures
• Chronic pain
• Infection risks
• Psychological trauma

Internal Organ Damage

Common Internal Injuries:

• Liver laceration or rupture
• Spleen damage requiring removal
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusion or collapse (pneumothorax)
• Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
• Bowel and intestinal damage

Why Dangerous:

• May not show immediate symptoms
• Internal bleeding can be life-threatening
• Requires emergency surgery
• Organ removal affects long-term health

Wrongful Death

When a Trucking Accident Kills:

Wrongful death claims allow surviving family members to recover compensation when a loved one is killed by another’s negligence.

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas:

• Surviving spouse
• Children (minor and adult)
• Parents (especially if no spouse or children)
• Estate representative

Types of Claims:

• Wrongful Death Action: Compensation for survivors’ losses
• Survival Action: Compensation for decedent’s pain/suffering before death

Damages Available Under Texas Law:

• Lost future income and employment benefits
• Loss of consortium (spousal companionship and relationship)
• Loss of parental guidance and nurturing (for surviving children)
• Mental anguish and emotional distress (for surviving family)
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred prior to death
• Pain and suffering experienced by decedent before death
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence, recklessness, or malice)

Texas Statute of Limitations: 2 years from date of death to file wrongful death lawsuit

Commercial Truck Insurance and Damages

Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance far exceeding typical auto policies.

FMCSA Minimum Insurance Requirements

Why This Matters For Your Hansford County Case

Unlike car accidents where insurance may be limited to $30,000-$100,000, trucking accidents typically have at least $750,000 available – and often much more. Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more in coverage.

This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.

Types of Damages Recoverable

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life):

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence):

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)

Nuclear Verdicts: What’s Possible When Trucking Companies Are Held Accountable

Recent Major Trucking Verdicts (2024-2025):

Historic Landmark Verdicts:

Why Nuclear Verdicts Happen:

Juries award massive verdicts when they find:

• Trucking company knowingly hired dangerous drivers
• Company ignored safety violations for profit
• Evidence was destroyed (spoliation)
• Falsified hours-of-service logs
• Pattern of similar violations
• Corporate culture prioritizing profit over safety
• Egregious disregard for human life

What This Means For Your Hansford County Case:

These verdicts show what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable. Insurance companies know juries are willing to award massive damages – which strengthens settlement negotiations.

Hansford County-Specific Trucking Corridors and Risks

Hansford County’s position in the Texas Panhandle creates unique trucking accident risks:

Major Trucking Routes Serving Hansford County

1. U.S. Highway 83

   • Primary north-south corridor through Hansford County
   • Connects to Liberal, Kansas to the north and Canadian, Texas to the south
   • Significant agricultural and oilfield truck traffic
   • Known for high-speed collisions and fatigue-related accidents

2. U.S. Highway 54

   • Major east-west route through the southern Panhandle
   • Connects to Dalhart, Texas and Liberal, Kansas
   • Heavy oilfield and agricultural freight
   • Crosses railroad tracks creating potential hazards

3. State Highway 15

   • Connects Hansford County to Borger and Amarillo
   • Important route for local agricultural and energy industry trucking
   • Rural stretches with limited emergency services

4. Interstate 40 (Nearby Corridor)

   • Major east-west interstate approximately 60 miles south of Hansford County
   • Connects to Amarillo, Oklahoma City, and beyond
   • Primary route for cross-country freight
   • Known for high-speed collisions and fatigue-related accidents

High-Risk Areas in Hansford County

1. Spearman City Limits

   • Intersection of U.S. 83 and SH 15
   • Heavy local traffic mixing with through truck traffic
   • Known for congestion during peak hours

2. Grain Elevator Areas

   • Concentrated truck traffic during harvest seasons
   • Long wait times for loading/unloading
   • Potential for distracted or fatigued drivers

3. Oilfield Access Roads

   • Unpaved or poorly maintained roads
   • Heavy equipment transport
   • Increased risk of rollovers and cargo spills

4. Rural Intersections

   • Limited visibility and signage
   • High-speed approaches
   • Increased risk of T-bone collisions

Seasonal Risks

1. Harvest Season (Fall)

   • Increased agricultural truck traffic
   • Fatigued drivers working long hours
   • Rural road congestion

2. Winter Weather

   • Sudden ice storms
   • High winds affecting high-profile trailers
   • Limited truck stop availability

3. Energy Market Fluctuations

   • Oil and gas activity increases truck traffic
   • Inexperienced drivers entering the industry
   • Equipment transport risks

4. Hunting Season

   • Increased recreational traffic
   • Vehicles not accustomed to sharing roads with large trucks
   • Potential for distracted driving

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Hansford County Trucking Case

1. Local Knowledge Combined with National Resources

We understand Hansford County’s unique trucking environment while having the resources to take on national trucking companies. Our knowledge of local roads, weather patterns, and court systems gives us an advantage in building your case.

2. Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

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 accident victims, not against them.

3. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for truck accident victims since 1998. We’ve handled cases against major commercial entities including:

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

4. Federal Court Experience

Our admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas means we can handle interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court. This is critical for cases involving federal regulations and multi-state defendants.

5. Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for trucking accident victims, including:

• $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement from falling log
• $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement with staph infection complications
• $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
• $2+ Million – Maritime back injury settlement (Jones Act)
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

6. Comprehensive Investigation Approach

We leave no stone unturned in building your case:

• Immediate evidence preservation with spoliation letters
• ECM/Black Box data retrieval and analysis
• ELD record examination for hours of service violations
• Driver Qualification File review for hiring negligence
• Maintenance record analysis for deferred repairs
• Accident reconstruction with expert engineers
• Cell phone record subpoenas for distracted driving evidence
• GPS data analysis for route and speed verification

7. Contingency Fee Representation

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.

8. Bilingual Services

Many trucking accident victims in Hansford County speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

9. 24/7 Availability

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to your legal emergency.

What To Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Hansford County

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Hansford County, take these steps immediately:

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out
3. Document the Scene – Take photos and video of:
   • All vehicles involved (exterior and interior damage)
   • The accident scene (road conditions, skid marks, debris)
   • Your injuries
   • Street signs and traffic signals
   • Weather conditions
4. Collect Information – Get:
   • Truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
   • Trucking company name and DOT number
   • Witness names and contact information
   • Responding officer’s name and badge number
5. Do NOT Give Statements – Don’t speak to insurance adjusters without legal representation
6. Call an Attorney Immediately – Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases

Frequently Asked Questions About Hansford County Trucking Accidents

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Hansford 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. Hansford County hospitals and regional trauma centers 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 Hansford 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 Hansford 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.

What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?

A spoliation letter is a legal notice demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. This includes ECM/black box data, ELD logs, maintenance records, driver files, and more. Sending this letter immediately puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Hansford 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. 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 duty
• 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
• Improper lighting
• Negligent hiring
• Mobile phone use

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 Hansford 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 Hansford 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 Hansford 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 Hansford 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.

Client Testimonials: Real Results for Hansford County Families

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

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

“In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”
— Greg Garcia, Attorney911 Client

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

“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day… it only took 6 months amazing.”
— Chavodrian Miles, Attorney911 Client

“One of Houston’s Great Men Trae Tha Truth has recommended this law firm. So if he is vouching for them then I know they do good work.”
— Jacqueline Johnson, Attorney911 Client

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Hansford County, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every hour. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect their interests – you deserve the same level of representation.

Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

We offer free consultations and work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. Let our 25+ years of experience, federal court admission, and insider knowledge of insurance company tactics work for you.

Don’t let the trucking company get away with it. Call Attorney911 now.