18-Wheeler Accidents in Limestone County: Your Guide to Justice and Compensation
If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Limestone County, you’re likely facing overwhelming challenges. The physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burden can feel insurmountable. At Attorney911, we understand the unique complexities of trucking accidents in our community. With over 25 years of experience fighting for victims across Texas, our team knows how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.
Why Limestone County Trucking Accidents Are Different
Limestone County’s position along major freight corridors creates unique risks for drivers. The intersection of I-45 and US-84 brings heavy commercial traffic through our communities, including Groesbeck, Mexia, and Coolidge. Our local roads like FM 1644 and FM 3371 connect agricultural areas to distribution centers, creating a mix of local and long-haul trucking that increases accident risks.
We’ve seen firsthand how trucking accidents on these routes differ from typical car accidents:
- Higher injury severity: The massive size disparity between 80,000-pound trucks and passenger vehicles means catastrophic injuries are common
- Complex liability: Multiple parties may share responsibility, from the driver to the trucking company, cargo loaders, and even manufacturers
- Federal regulations: Trucking companies must comply with strict FMCSA rules that create powerful evidence when violated
- Aggressive insurance tactics: Trucking insurers deploy rapid-response teams to protect their interests, not yours
- Evidence preservation challenges: Critical data from black boxes and electronic logs can disappear within days
Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Limestone County
Our experience with Limestone County trucking cases has revealed patterns in how these accidents occur:
Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations
Limestone County’s position along I-45 makes it a common route for long-haul drivers traveling between Houston and Dallas. Many drivers push beyond federal limits to meet tight delivery schedules. The FMCSA hours of service regulations exist to prevent this dangerous practice, but violations remain common:
- 11-hour driving limit: Drivers may not drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
- 14-hour on-duty window: Drivers cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
- 30-minute break requirement: Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
- 60/70-hour weekly limits: Drivers cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
We’ve seen cases where drivers falsify their electronic logs to conceal violations. Our team knows how to obtain and analyze ELD data to prove these violations.
Improper Cargo Loading and Securement
Limestone County’s agricultural industry means many trucks carry specialized cargo like livestock, grain, or heavy equipment. Improper loading creates dangerous conditions:
- Unbalanced loads can cause rollovers on curves or when making sudden maneuvers
- Overweight vehicles require longer stopping distances and are more prone to brake failures
- Inadequate tiedowns can lead to cargo spills on our highways
- Shifting loads can destabilize trucks, especially on rural roads with uneven surfaces
The FMCSA cargo securement regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) specify exact requirements for different types of cargo. Violations of these rules create strong evidence of negligence.
Distracted Driving
With the growth of in-cab technology, distracted driving has become a major issue among commercial drivers. Common distractions we see in Limestone County cases include:
- Cell phone use: Texting while driving is illegal for commercial drivers (49 CFR § 392.82)
- Dispatch communications: Many drivers use electronic messaging systems while driving
- Navigation systems: Improper use of GPS devices can take attention from the road
- Eating and drinking: Many drivers eat while driving to save time
- External distractions: Looking at accidents, billboards, or scenery
Brake Failures and Maintenance Neglect
Limestone County’s terrain includes rolling hills that can strain braking systems. We’ve handled cases involving:
- Worn brake components that weren’t replaced during scheduled maintenance
- Improper brake adjustments that reduce stopping power
- Brake fade on long descents where drivers rely too heavily on brakes
- Complete brake system failures due to deferred maintenance
The FMCSA requires systematic inspection and maintenance of all commercial vehicles (49 CFR § 396.3). When trucking companies cut corners on maintenance, they put everyone on our roads at risk.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Truck drivers face intense pressure to meet delivery deadlines. This often leads to:
- Excessive speed for conditions: Especially dangerous on Limestone County’s rural roads
- Tailgating: Following too closely reduces reaction time
- Unsafe lane changes: Especially dangerous on two-lane highways
- Failure to yield: Common at intersections and when merging
The FMCSA prohibits motor carriers from scheduling runs that would require drivers to exceed speed limits (49 CFR § 392.6). When drivers speed to meet unrealistic schedules, both the driver and company may be liable.
The Devastating Injuries We See in Limestone County Trucking Cases
The physics of trucking accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm rather than the exception. The average 18-wheeler weighs 20-25 times more than a passenger vehicle. At highway speeds, this creates forces that can cause:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
TBIs are among the most common and devastating injuries in trucking accidents. The sudden impact can cause the brain to collide with the skull, resulting in:
- Concussions (mild TBI): May cause temporary symptoms like headaches, confusion, and memory problems
- Moderate TBI: Can result in extended unconsciousness and cognitive deficits
- Severe TBI: May cause permanent disability, coma, or vegetative state
Symptoms may not appear immediately, which is why seeking medical attention right away is critical. We’ve seen cases where clients initially felt fine but developed serious neurological issues days or weeks later.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
The extreme forces in trucking accidents can damage the spinal cord, potentially causing:
- Paraplegia: Loss of function in the lower body
- Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
- Incomplete injuries: Partial loss of sensation or movement
- Complete injuries: Total loss of function below the injury site
These injuries often require lifelong medical care and adaptive equipment. The lifetime costs can exceed $5 million for severe cases.
Amputations
Trucking accidents can result in traumatic amputations at the scene or require surgical amputation later due to:
- Crushing injuries from the impact
- Severe burns that damage tissue beyond repair
- Infections that develop after the accident
- Entrapment that requires amputation for extraction
Amputations create permanent disability and require extensive rehabilitation. Prosthetic limbs can cost $5,000-$50,000 each and need replacement every few years.
Severe Burns
Trucking accidents often result in fires due to:
- Fuel tank ruptures
- Hazardous material spills
- Electrical system damage
- Friction from the impact
Burn injuries require extensive treatment including:
- Skin grafts
- Reconstructive surgery
- Physical therapy
- Psychological counseling for trauma and disfigurement
Internal Organ Damage
The forces in a trucking accident can cause internal injuries that aren’t immediately visible:
- Liver or spleen lacerations
- Kidney damage
- Lung contusions or punctures
- Internal bleeding
- Bowel or intestinal damage
These injuries can be life-threatening and often require emergency surgery.
Wrongful Death
When trucking accidents prove fatal, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims. These cases allow recovery for:
- Lost income and financial support
- Loss of companionship and guidance
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses before death
- Pain and suffering of the deceased
- Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Limestone County Trucking Accident?
One of the most important differences between trucking accidents and car accidents is that multiple parties may share responsibility. Holding all liable parties accountable is critical to ensuring full compensation. In Limestone County cases, we commonly pursue claims against:
The Truck Driver
The driver may be personally liable for negligent actions such as:
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Distracted driving (cell phone use, texting)
- Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
- Hours of service violations
- Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
- Improper cargo loading or securement
The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)
Trucking companies are often the primary defendants because they have the deepest pockets and highest insurance limits. They can be liable for:
- Vicarious liability: Responsibility for their employees’ actions
- Negligent hiring: Hiring unqualified or dangerous drivers
- Negligent training: Failing to properly train drivers
- Negligent supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance
- Negligent maintenance: Failing to maintain vehicles properly
- Unrealistic scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service rules
Cargo Owners and Loading Companies
When cargo is improperly loaded or secured, the companies responsible for loading may be liable for:
- Overloading the vehicle
- Unbalanced load distribution
- Inadequate tiedowns or restraints
- Failure to follow FMCSA securement regulations
- Loading hazardous materials without proper precautions
Truck and Parts Manufacturers
If a defect in the truck or its components contributed to the accident, manufacturers may be liable for:
- Brake system defects
- Tire defects causing blowouts
- Steering system failures
- Coupling device failures
- Lighting system failures
- Stability control system defects
Maintenance Companies
Third-party maintenance providers can be liable for:
- Negligent repairs that fail to fix problems
- Failure to identify critical safety issues
- Improper brake adjustments
- Using substandard or incorrect parts
- Returning vehicles to service with known defects
Freight Brokers
Freight brokers who arrange transportation can 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 share responsibility for:
- Dangerous road designs that contribute to accidents
- Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
- Inadequate signage for known hazards
- Failure to install safety barriers
- Improper work zone setups
The Critical Evidence in Limestone County Trucking Cases
Trucking accident cases hinge on evidence. The trucking industry has sophisticated systems for recording data, but this evidence can disappear quickly if not preserved. Our team moves fast to secure:
Electronic Control Module (ECM) / Black Box Data
Modern commercial trucks have electronic systems that record critical operational data:
- Speed before and during the crash: Proves speeding or excessive speed for conditions
- Brake application: Shows when and how hard brakes were applied
- Throttle position: Reveals whether the driver was accelerating or coasting
- Cruise control status: Indicates whether the driver was using cruise control
- Fault codes: May reveal mechanical issues the driver ignored
This data is objective and tamper-resistant, making it powerful evidence. However, it can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events.
Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Records
ELDs are federally mandated devices that record:
- Driver hours of service
- Duty status changes
- GPS location history
- Driving time
ELD data proves whether the driver violated hours of service regulations and was driving while fatigued. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention, but we send spoliation letters to preserve this data immediately.
Driver Qualification File
Motor carriers must maintain a file for every driver containing:
- Employment application and background check
- Driving record and previous employers
- Medical certification and exam records
- Drug and alcohol test results
- Training documentation
Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring. We subpoena these records in every case.
Maintenance and Inspection Records
Trucking companies must maintain:
- Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
- Annual inspection records
- Maintenance and repair records
- Out-of-service orders and repairs
These records reveal whether the company deferred maintenance or ignored known defects.
Drug and Alcohol Test Results
The FMCSA requires:
- Pre-employment drug tests
- Random drug and alcohol testing
- Post-accident testing
We obtain these records to prove impairment at the time of the accident.
Cell Phone Records
We subpoena cell phone records to prove:
- Texting while driving
- Phone calls while driving
- Use of dispatch messaging systems
- Distraction at the time of the accident
GPS and Telematics Data
Many trucks have GPS tracking systems that record:
- Route history
- Speed throughout the trip
- Hard braking events
- Rapid acceleration events
- Location at the time of the accident
Dashcam Footage
Forward-facing and in-cab cameras can provide:
- Video of the accident
- Video of driver behavior before the crash
- Audio of dispatch communications
This footage is often overwritten within days or weeks if not preserved.
The Attorney911 Difference: Why Limestone County Victims Choose Us
When you’re facing the aftermath of a trucking accident, you need more than just any lawyer. You need a team with specific experience fighting trucking companies and their insurers. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:
25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience
Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He has:
- Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for trucking accident victims
- Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
- Experience in BP explosion litigation against multinational corporations
- A track record of holding major trucking companies accountable
Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics
Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurers operate. He spent years working for a national defense firm, learning:
- How insurance companies value claims
- How adjusters are trained to minimize payouts
- What makes insurance companies settle
- How they deny and delay claims
- The claims valuation software they use
This insider knowledge gives us a strategic advantage in negotiations and litigation.
Deep Understanding of FMCSA Regulations
We have comprehensive knowledge of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399). This expertise allows us to:
- Identify violations that prove negligence
- Obtain critical evidence from trucking companies
- Build strong cases based on regulatory violations
- Counter insurance company arguments about compliance
Aggressive Evidence Preservation
We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve:
- ECM/Black box data
- ELD records
- Maintenance records
- Driver qualification files
- Dashcam footage
- Cell phone records
This immediate action prevents the destruction of critical evidence.
Multi-Million Dollar Results
Our track record speaks for itself:
- $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
Federal Court Capability
With admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, we can handle interstate trucking cases that may require federal jurisdiction.
24/7 Availability for Limestone County Clients
Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. We’re available 24 hours a day to:
- Answer your questions
- Provide immediate legal advice
- Send preservation letters
- Start building your case
Bilingual Services for Our Community
Limestone County has a diverse community, and we’re committed to serving all residents. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español.
Three Convenient Texas Locations
With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we’re never far from Limestone County. Our team regularly handles cases throughout Central Texas and can meet with you in person or virtually.
What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Limestone County
The actions you take in the hours and days after a trucking accident can make or break your case. Here’s what you should do:
At the Scene
- Call 911 immediately: Report the accident and request police and medical assistance
- Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked out. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries
- Document everything: Take photos and videos of:
- All vehicle damage (inside and out)
- The accident scene (skid marks, debris, road conditions)
- Your injuries
- Street signs and traffic signals
- The truck and trailer (including license plates and DOT numbers)
- Get information from the truck driver:
- Name and contact information
- CDL number
- Trucking company name and contact information
- Insurance information
- Collect witness information: Get names and contact information from all witnesses
- Avoid discussing fault: Don’t apologize or admit fault, even if you think you may have contributed
In the Days Following the Accident
- Follow up with medical care: Attend all follow-up appointments and follow your doctor’s orders
- Document your recovery: Keep a journal of your symptoms, pain levels, and how the injuries affect your daily life
- Preserve evidence: Save all medical records, receipts, and communications related to the accident
- Avoid social media: Don’t post about the accident or your injuries. Insurance companies will use your posts against you
- Don’t give recorded statements: Insurance adjusters will call and ask for a statement. Politely decline and refer them to your attorney
- Contact Attorney911 immediately: The sooner we get involved, the better we can protect your rights
The Legal Process for Limestone County Trucking Cases
Understanding the legal process can help reduce anxiety and set realistic expectations. Here’s what to expect when you work with Attorney911:
1. Free Initial Consultation
We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to evaluate your case. During this meeting, we’ll:
- Review the facts of your accident
- Assess your injuries and damages
- Explain your legal options
- Answer your questions
- Discuss our fee structure (no fee unless we win)
2. Case Investigation
If we take your case, we’ll immediately begin investigating:
- Sending spoliation letters to preserve evidence
- Obtaining police reports and accident scene photos
- Collecting medical records and bills
- Interviewing witnesses
- Hiring accident reconstruction experts if needed
- Obtaining trucking company records
3. Medical Treatment and Documentation
We’ll help you get the medical care you need and document:
- All medical treatments and expenses
- Your pain and suffering
- The impact on your daily life
- Your prognosis and future medical needs
4. Demand Package
Once your treatment is complete or we have a clear picture of your future needs, we’ll prepare a comprehensive demand package that includes:
- A detailed description of the accident
- Evidence of liability
- Medical records and bills
- Documentation of lost wages
- Expert reports on future medical needs
- A demand for compensation
5. Negotiation
We’ll negotiate with the insurance companies to reach a fair settlement. Our experience with trucking cases allows us to:
- Counter lowball offers
- Present strong evidence of liability
- Demonstrate the full extent of your damages
- Leverage our insider knowledge of insurance tactics
6. Litigation (If Necessary)
If we can’t reach a fair settlement through negotiation, we’re prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to trial. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, which creates leverage in negotiations.
7. Resolution
Most cases settle before trial, but we’re fully prepared to go to court if necessary. When your case resolves, we’ll:
- Review the settlement or verdict with you
- Ensure all medical liens are resolved
- Distribute your compensation
- Close your case
Understanding Your Damages
Trucking accidents often result in significant damages that deserve full compensation. We pursue recovery for:
Economic Damages
These are the quantifiable financial losses you’ve suffered:
- Medical expenses: All past, present, and future medical costs related to your injuries
- Lost wages: Income lost due to time off work for recovery
- Lost earning capacity: Reduction in your ability to earn income in the future
- Property damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle and other property
- Out-of-pocket expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, etc.
- Life care costs: Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries
Non-Economic Damages
These compensate for the intangible impacts of your injuries:
- Pain and suffering: Physical pain from your injuries
- Mental anguish: Emotional trauma, anxiety, depression
- Loss of enjoyment: Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed
- Disfigurement: Scarring and other visible injuries
- Loss of consortium: Impact on your relationships with your spouse and family
- Physical impairment: Reduced physical capabilities
Punitive Damages
In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, we may pursue punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. Texas law allows punitive damages when the defendant acted with:
- Gross negligence
- Willful misconduct
- Conscious indifference to safety
- Fraud (such as falsifying logs or destroying evidence)
The Statute of Limitations for Limestone County Trucking Cases
In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations. If you miss this deadline, you lose your right to sue forever.
However, there are important exceptions and considerations:
- Minors: The statute of limitations doesn’t begin until the victim turns 18
- Discovery rule: In some cases, the deadline may be extended if the injury wasn’t immediately discoverable
- Government entities: If a government entity is involved, you may need to file a notice of claim within 6 months
- Wrongful death: The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is also two years, but it begins on the date of death, not the date of the accident
Because evidence can disappear quickly in trucking cases, it’s critical to contact an attorney as soon as possible after your accident. The sooner we get involved, the stronger your case will be.
Common Insurance Tactics and How We Counter Them
Trucking insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers working to minimize your claim. We’ve seen all their tactics and know how to counter them:
Quick Lowball Settlement Offers
Their tactic: Offer a quick settlement that’s far less than your case is worth, hoping you’ll accept before you understand the full extent of your injuries.
Our counter: We never accept early offers. We wait until your treatment is complete and we have a full understanding of your damages before negotiating.
Denying or Minimizing Injuries
Their tactic: Argue that your injuries aren’t as serious as you claim or that they’re pre-existing.
Our counter: We obtain comprehensive medical documentation and expert testimony to prove the full extent of your injuries and their connection to the accident.
Blaming the Victim
Their tactic: Argue that you were partially or fully at fault for the accident.
Our counter: We gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data) to prove what really happened. Texas follows modified comparative negligence, so you can still recover as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault.
Delaying the Claims Process
Their tactic: Drag out the process, hoping you’ll get frustrated and accept a lower settlement.
Our counter: We keep the pressure on with aggressive litigation. If they won’t settle fairly, we’re prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to trial.
Using Recorded Statements Against You
Their tactic: Ask for a recorded statement and use your words against you to minimize your claim.
Our counter: We advise clients never to give recorded statements without an attorney present. We handle all communications with the insurance company.
The “Pre-Existing Condition” Defense
Their tactic: Argue that your injuries existed before the accident and weren’t caused by the crash.
Our counter: We apply the “eggshell skull” doctrine, which means they must take you as they find you. Even if you had a pre-existing condition, they’re liable for aggravating it.
The “Gap in Treatment” Attack
Their tactic: Argue that gaps in your medical treatment mean your injuries aren’t serious.
Our counter: We document all treatment and explain any gaps with medical records. We also show how your injuries have affected your daily life.
Sending Surveillance Investigators
Their tactic: Hire investigators to follow you and take photos or videos to argue you’re not as injured as you claim.
Our counter: We advise clients on appropriate conduct. If they engage in unfair surveillance, we expose it and use it to strengthen your case.
Hiring “Independent” Medical Examiners
Their tactic: Send you to a doctor they hire who will downplay your injuries.
Our counter: We counter with testimony from your treating physicians and independent experts who will provide objective evaluations.
Drowning You in Paperwork
Their tactic: Overwhelm you with requests for documents and information to delay your claim.
Our counter: We handle all the paperwork and respond to their requests while keeping your case moving forward.
Limestone County Trucking Corridors: Where Accidents Happen
Limestone County’s position along major freight routes creates specific accident risks. We’re familiar with the dangerous areas where trucking accidents commonly occur:
I-45 Corridor
Running north-south through Limestone County, I-45 is a major freight route between Houston and Dallas. This high-traffic corridor sees frequent accidents due to:
- Heavy truck volume: I-45 carries significant commercial traffic
- Speed differentials: Trucks traveling at different speeds create dangerous conditions
- Driver fatigue: Long-haul drivers on this route often push their hours of service limits
- Construction zones: Ongoing roadwork creates additional hazards
Common accident types on I-45 include rear-end collisions, jackknife accidents, and rollovers.
US-84 and the Groesbeck Bypass
US-84 runs east-west through Limestone County, intersecting with I-45 in Fairfield. The Groesbeck bypass (SH 14) creates additional truck traffic through our communities. Accident risks include:
- Intersection collisions: Trucks turning onto or crossing US-84
- Blind spots: Trucks making wide turns at intersections
- Speeding: Trucks trying to make up time on this route
- Agricultural traffic: Mixing of heavy trucks with farm equipment
FM 1644 and FM 3371
These rural farm-to-market roads connect agricultural areas to distribution centers. Trucking accidents on these routes often involve:
- Improperly secured loads: Agricultural products and equipment require special securement
- Overweight vehicles: Trucks carrying heavy loads on rural roads
- Driver inexperience: Some drivers may not be familiar with rural road conditions
- Wildlife encounters: Deer and other animals crossing roads
Distribution Centers and Truck Stops
Limestone County has several distribution centers and truck stops that create accident risks:
- Truck stop congestion: Large numbers of trucks entering and exiting these areas
- Driver fatigue: Truck stops are where fatigued drivers may push their limits
- Improper parking: Trucks parked in unsafe locations can create hazards
- Cargo loading areas: Improper loading can lead to accidents on the road
Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Contact an Attorney
Time is critical in trucking accident cases. Here’s why you shouldn’t delay:
Evidence Disappears Fast
- Black box data can be overwritten within 30 days
- ELD records may only be retained for 6 months
- Dashcam footage is often deleted within days or weeks
- Witness memories fade quickly
- Physical evidence may be repaired, sold, or scrapped
Insurance Companies Move Quickly
Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. They’ll:
- Send investigators to the scene
- Interview witnesses
- Collect evidence
- Prepare their defense
You need someone on your side just as quickly.
Medical Treatment Needs to Be Documented
The sooner you start medical treatment, the stronger the connection between your injuries and the accident. Delaying treatment gives insurance companies ammunition to argue that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident.
The Statute of Limitations is Ticking
In Texas, you have only two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. While this may seem like a long time, building a strong case takes months. The sooner we start, the stronger your case will be.
Client Testimonials: Real Stories from Limestone County and Beyond
At Attorney911, we’re proud of the results we’ve achieved for our clients. Here’s what some of them have to say:
“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
“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client
“I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
— Donald Wilcox, Attorney911 Client
“One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
— Donald Wilcox, Attorney911 Client
“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day… it only took 6 months amazing.”
— Chavodrian Miles, Attorney911 Client
“Ralph reached out personally.”
— Dame Haskett, 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
“Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows commercial trucking insurer tactics from the inside.”
— Attorney911 Positioning Statement
Frequently Asked Questions About Limestone County Trucking Accidents
What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Limestone County?
If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Limestone 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 Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal assistance
How much is my Limestone County trucking accident case worth?
The value of your case depends on many factors:
- Severity of your injuries
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
- Insurance coverage available
Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits than typical car insurance policies, often ranging from $750,000 to $5 million or more. This allows for larger recoveries than typical car accident cases.
Who can be held responsible for my injuries?
Multiple parties may share responsibility in a trucking accident:
- 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 the carrier)
- Government entities (for road defects)
We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.
What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?
A spoliation letter is a formal legal notice demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. This includes:
- ECM/Black box data
- ELD records
- Maintenance records
- Driver qualification files
- Dashcam footage
- Cell phone records
Sending this letter immediately puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Limestone County?
In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, there are important exceptions:
- For minors, the statute doesn’t begin until they turn 18
- If a government entity is involved, you may need to file a notice of claim within 6 months
- Wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the date of death
Because evidence can disappear quickly in trucking cases, it’s critical to contact an attorney as soon as possible.
Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?
No. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. We advise our clients never to give recorded statements without an attorney present. Our team handles all communications with the insurance company.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means:
- If you’re less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages
- Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault
- If you’re 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything
Our job is to gather evidence to minimize your attributed fault and maximize your recovery.
How long will my case take to resolve?
The timeline varies depending on:
- Severity of your injuries
- Complexity of your case
- Willingness of the insurance company to settle fairly
- Court schedules if litigation is required
Simple cases may resolve in 6-12 months. Complex cases with severe injuries can take 1-3 years or longer. We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.
Will my case go to trial?
Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation creates leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready if a fair settlement can’t be reached.
Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?
No. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means:
- You pay nothing unless we win your case
- We advance all costs of investigation and litigation
- Our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket
- If we don’t win, you owe us nothing
Contact Attorney911 Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Limestone County, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every day, and the trucking company’s insurance team is already working to protect their interests.
Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to answer your questions and start building your case.
Our team includes:
- Ralph Manginello, with 25+ years of experience fighting trucking companies
- Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows their tactics
- A dedicated support staff committed to your case
We offer:
- Free consultations
- No upfront fees (you pay nothing unless we win)
- Bilingual services (Hablamos Español)
- 24/7 availability
- Offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont
Don’t let the trucking company push you around. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today and let us fight for the compensation you deserve. Your future starts with one call.