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

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Throckmorton County, you’re facing one of the most traumatic experiences of your life. The physical pain, emotional distress, and financial uncertainty can feel overwhelming. At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through, and we’re here to help.

Why Throckmorton County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Throckmorton County’s highways and rural roads present unique challenges for truck drivers and passenger vehicles alike. Our county’s position along major freight corridors means heavy truck traffic, yet our rural nature means limited emergency services and challenging driving conditions. When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle on Throckmorton County roads, the results are often catastrophic.

We’ve handled trucking accident cases throughout Texas for over 25 years, and we know how to navigate the specific challenges of Throckmorton County cases. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes right here in Texas.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents

Every year, thousands of 18-wheeler accidents occur on Texas highways. The statistics are sobering:

• Over 5,000 people die in trucking accidents annually in the United States
• 76% of those killed are occupants of the smaller vehicle
• Trucking accidents cause approximately 125,000 injuries each year
• In Texas alone, there are thousands of truck crashes annually

What these numbers don’t show is the human cost. The families we’ve represented have suffered:

• Traumatic brain injuries that change personalities forever
• Spinal cord injuries resulting in permanent paralysis
• Amputations that alter lives in an instant
• Severe burns requiring years of painful treatment
• Wrongful deaths that leave families shattered

Here in Throckmorton County, we’ve seen firsthand how these accidents devastate families. One moment you’re driving to work or heading home to your family, and the next moment your life is changed forever by a negligent truck driver or trucking company.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Throckmorton County

Understanding why these accidents happen is crucial to building your case. In Throckmorton County, we commonly see:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Truck drivers are subject to strict federal hours of service regulations designed to prevent fatigue-related accidents. These regulations limit drivers to:

• 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• No driving beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• A 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70 hour weekly limits

Yet many drivers and trucking companies violate these rules to meet tight delivery schedules. In Throckmorton County, we’ve seen cases where drivers falsified their logs or were pressured by their employers to drive beyond legal limits. When fatigue sets in, reaction times slow, judgment becomes impaired, and accidents become inevitable.

Improper Maintenance and Brake Failures

Trucking companies are required by federal law to systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles. Yet many cut corners to save money. Common maintenance failures we see in Throckmorton County cases include:

• Worn brake pads not replaced
• Improper brake adjustments
• Air brake system leaks
• Tire blowouts from worn or underinflated tires
• Lighting system failures

Brake failures are particularly dangerous on Throckmorton County’s rural roads where truck speeds can be high and emergency services may be far away. A fully loaded 18-wheeler traveling at highway speeds needs approximately 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields. When brakes fail, the results are often catastrophic.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a growing problem among truck drivers. Federal regulations prohibit the use of hand-held mobile phones while driving, yet we still see cases where drivers were:

• Texting or using smartphones
• Using dispatch communication devices
• Eating or drinking while driving
• Adjusting GPS or entertainment systems
• Reading paperwork or maps

In Throckmorton County, where cell service can be spotty, drivers may be more inclined to use their phones when they do have signal. A moment’s distraction at 65 mph means traveling the length of a football field without looking at the road.

Improper Cargo Loading

Cargo securement is critical for truck safety. Federal regulations require that cargo be secured to prevent:

• Shifting that affects vehicle stability
• Falling or spilling onto the roadway
• Leaking of hazardous materials

In Throckmorton County, we’ve seen accidents caused by improperly secured agricultural equipment, livestock trailers, and even standard freight. When cargo shifts, it can cause rollovers or make the truck difficult to control. When cargo spills, it creates hazards for other vehicles.

Jackknife and Rollover Accidents

Jackknife and rollover accidents are among the most dangerous truck crashes. A jackknife occurs when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic. Rollovers happen when the truck tips onto its side or roof.

These accidents are common in Throckmorton County due to:

• Sudden braking on rural roads
• Taking curves too fast
• Improperly loaded or shifting cargo
• Adverse weather conditions
• Driver overcorrection

The physics of these accidents make them particularly deadly. An 80,000-pound truck jackknifing across the highway gives other drivers almost no time to react.

Underride Accidents

Underride accidents occur when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of a truck trailer and slides underneath. These are among the most fatal types of truck accidents because the trailer often shears off the top of the smaller vehicle.

Federal regulations require rear impact guards on trailers, but:

• Many guards are inadequate to prevent underride
• There is no federal requirement for side underride guards
• Guards are often damaged or improperly maintained

In Throckmorton County, we’ve seen underride accidents at intersections, during sudden stops, and when trucks make wide turns.

The Unique Challenges of Throckmorton County Trucking Cases

Throckmorton County presents specific challenges that make trucking accident cases here different from those in larger metropolitan areas:

Rural Roads and Limited Emergency Services

Our county’s rural nature means:

• Longer response times for emergency services
• Limited trauma care available locally
• Long distances to major medical centers
• Challenging conditions for accident investigation

When an accident occurs on rural Throckmorton County roads, every minute counts. The nearest trauma center may be an hour or more away by ambulance. This is why immediate medical attention is so critical – even if injuries seem minor at first.

Weather Conditions

Throckmorton County weather creates unique hazards for truck drivers:

• High winds that can affect high-profile trailers
• Dust storms that reduce visibility
• Sudden thunderstorms that create slick roads
• Temperature extremes that affect tire pressure and engine performance

Truck drivers must adjust their driving to these conditions, but many fail to do so, leading to preventable accidents.

Agricultural and Livestock Traffic

Our county’s agricultural industry means:

• Slow-moving farm equipment on rural roads
• Livestock trailers that may be improperly secured
• Seasonal increases in truck traffic during harvest
• Unique cargo securement requirements

These factors create additional hazards that truck drivers must be aware of and prepared for.

Limited Truck Parking and Rest Areas

Truck drivers need safe places to rest and comply with hours of service regulations. In Throckmorton County, options are limited, which can lead to:

• Drivers continuing to drive when they should rest
• Parking in unsafe locations
• Fatigue-related accidents

Local Trucking Companies and Familiarity

Some trucking companies operate primarily in Throckmorton County and surrounding areas. While familiarity with local roads can be an advantage, it can also lead to complacency. We’ve seen cases where local drivers:

• Exceed speed limits on familiar roads
• Fail to adjust for changing conditions
• Become distracted by familiar surroundings

Who Is Liable in Your Throckmorton County Trucking Accident?

One of the most important aspects of trucking accident cases is identifying all potentially liable parties. Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple responsible parties:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be liable for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, 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 (Motor Carrier)

The trucking company can be held liable through:

• Respondeat Superior: The legal doctrine that makes employers responsible for employees’ actions within the scope of employment
• Negligent Hiring: Failing to properly vet drivers or hiring unqualified drivers
• Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
• Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance and compliance
• Negligent Maintenance: Failing to properly maintain vehicles
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service regulations

The Cargo Owner or Shipper

The company that owns the cargo may be liable for:

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
• Requiring overweight loading
• Pressuring the carrier to expedite delivery

The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for:

• Design defects in the truck or trailer
• Manufacturing defects in components
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective safety systems (brakes, stability control, etc.)

Parts Manufacturers

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

• Defective brake components
• Defective tires that cause blowouts
• Defective steering mechanisms
• Defective lighting components

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers may be liable for:

• Negligent repairs that fail to fix problems
• Failure to identify critical safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard or wrong parts

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

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

The Critical Evidence in Your Throckmorton County Trucking Case

Evidence in trucking accident cases 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.

Electronic Data

Modern trucks are equipped with sophisticated electronic systems that record critical data:

• Electronic Control Module (ECM) / Black Box: Records engine performance, speed, throttle position, RPM, cruise control status, and fault codes
• Event Data Recorder (EDR): Captures pre-crash data triggered by sudden deceleration or airbag deployment
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD): Federally mandated device that records driver hours of service, GPS location, and driving time
• GPS and Telematics: Real-time tracking of vehicle location, speed, and route
• Dashcam Footage: Video of the road ahead and sometimes the cab interior

This data can prove:

• The truck was speeding
• The driver hit the brakes too late
• The driver was fatigued (hours of service violations)
• The truck had mechanical issues the driver ignored

Driver Records

The trucking company must maintain a Driver Qualification File for every driver, containing:

• Employment application and background check
• Driving record from state licensing authority
• Road test certificate or equivalent
• Medical examiner’s certificate
• Annual driving record review
• Previous employer inquiries (3-year driving history)
• Drug and alcohol test records

Missing or incomplete files can prove negligent hiring.

Maintenance Records

Federal regulations require systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of commercial vehicles. We pursue:

• 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

Hours of Service Records

ELD records show:

• When the driver started and ended each trip
• How long the driver was on duty
• Compliance with hours of service regulations
• Any violations of driving time limits

Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents.

Drug and Alcohol Test Results

Federal regulations require:

• Pre-employment drug testing
• Random drug and alcohol testing
• Post-accident testing
• Reasonable suspicion testing

Failed tests or failure to conduct required testing can prove liability.

Cell Phone Records

Cell phone records can prove distracted driving by showing:

• Text messages sent or received
• Phone calls made or received
• Data usage (internet browsing, apps)
• Location data

Dispatch Records

Dispatch records can show:

• Pressure to meet tight delivery schedules
• Instructions that may have caused the driver to violate regulations
• Communication between the driver and company

The Physical Truck and Trailer

The truck and trailer themselves are critical evidence. We work to:

• Preserve the vehicle before it’s repaired or sold
• Have experts inspect the vehicle
• Document any mechanical defects
• Analyze the condition of critical components

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Throckmorton County Trucking Cases

The size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles means trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In trucking accidents, this often happens when:

• The head strikes the steering wheel, dashboard, or window
• The brain impacts the inside of the skull due to sudden deceleration
• Objects penetrate the skull

TBI can range from mild concussions to severe, life-altering injuries. Symptoms may include:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory loss and confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes and personality changes
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
• Speech difficulties
• Permanent cognitive impairment

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

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Spinal cord injuries often result in permanent paralysis:

• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist, affecting legs and possibly bladder/bowel control
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs, often requiring breathing assistance
• Incomplete Injuries: Some nerve function remains, allowing limited movement or sensation

The level of injury determines the extent of paralysis. Higher injuries (cervical spine) affect more body functions than lower injuries (lumbar spine).

The lifetime cost of caring for a spinal cord injury can range from $1.1 million to $5 million or more.

Amputations

Amputations can occur:

• At the scene when limbs are severed by crash forces
• During extraction when victims are trapped in wreckage
• Surgically when limbs are too damaged to save

Amputations require:

• Initial surgery and hospitalization
• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ each)
• Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Psychological counseling

Severe Burns

Burns in trucking accidents can result from:

• Fuel tank ruptures and fires
• Hazardous material spills and ignition
• Electrical fires from damaged wiring
• Friction burns from road contact

Burns are classified by severity:

• First Degree: Affect only the outer layer of skin
• Second Degree: Affect outer and underlying layer of skin
• Third Degree: Penetrate the full thickness of skin
• Fourth Degree: Extend through skin to muscle and bone

Severe burns require:

• Multiple skin graft surgeries
• Long hospital stays
• Extensive rehabilitation
• Permanent scarring and disfigurement

Internal Organ Damage

The forces involved in trucking accidents can cause:

• Liver lacerations or rupture
• Spleen damage requiring removal
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusions or collapse
• Internal bleeding
• Bowel and intestinal damage

Internal injuries are particularly dangerous because they may not show immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening.

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members may bring a wrongful death claim. In Texas, this includes:

• Spouses
• Children (minor and adult)
• Parents (if no spouse or children exist)

Damages available in wrongful death cases include:

• 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

The Insurance Battle: What You’re Really Up Against

When you’re injured in a trucking accident, you’re not just fighting the truck driver or trucking company. You’re fighting their insurance company – and they have teams of lawyers and adjusters whose sole job is to minimize your claim.

The Insurance Company’s Playbook

Insurance companies use well-established tactics to reduce or deny claims:

1. Quick Lowball Settlement Offers: They offer fast settlements before you understand the full extent of your injuries
2. Denying or Minimizing Injuries: They claim your injuries aren’t as serious as you say
3. Blaming the Victim: They try to shift fault to you to reduce your recovery
4. Delaying the Claims Process: They hope you’ll get frustrated and accept a low offer
5. Using Recorded Statements Against You: They ask leading questions to get you to say things that hurt your case
6. “Pre-Existing Condition” Defense: They claim your injuries existed before the accident
7. “Gap in Treatment” Attacks: They use any delay in treatment to argue your injuries aren’t serious
8. Sending Surveillance Investigators: They may follow you to catch you doing activities that contradict your injury claims
9. Hiring “Independent” Medical Examiners: They send you to doctors who will downplay your injuries
10. Drowning You in Paperwork: They make the process so complicated you’ll give up

Our Insider Advantage

At Attorney911, we have a unique advantage in fighting insurance companies. Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working inside the system. He knows:

• How insurance companies value claims
• How adjusters are trained to minimize payouts
• What makes them settle for full value
• How they try to deny claims
• The claims valuation software they use

This insider knowledge allows us to anticipate and counter every tactic they use against you.

What Your Throckmorton County Trucking Accident Case Is Worth

The value of your case depends on many factors, but trucking accident cases typically have higher values than car accident cases because:

• Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million)
• The injuries are often more severe
• Multiple parties may be liable
• Punitive damages may be available in cases of gross negligence

Types of Damages Available

1. Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):

   • Past, present, and future medical expenses
   • Lost wages and lost earning capacity
   • Property damage (vehicle repair or replacement)
   • Out-of-pocket expenses (transportation, home modifications)
   • Life care costs (ongoing care for catastrophic injuries)

2. Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life):

   • Pain and suffering
   • Mental anguish
   • Loss of enjoyment of life
   • Disfigurement (scarring, visible injuries)
   • Loss of consortium (impact on marriage/family relationships)
   • Physical impairment

3. 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)

Documented Trucking Accident Verdicts and Settlements

While every case is unique, recent verdicts and settlements demonstrate what’s possible:

• $730 million: Texas case involving oversize load that killed a woman
• $462 million: Missouri underride accident that decapitated two men
• $160 million: Alabama rollover case that left a driver quadriplegic
• $150 million: Texas settlement involving two children killed on I-30
• $141.5 million: Florida case against a defunct carrier
• $90 million: Houston trucking accident case
• $37.5 million: Texas trucking accident verdict

These verdicts show that juries are willing to hold trucking companies fully accountable for their negligence.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears fast. We move quickly to preserve critical evidence before it’s lost forever.

Why 48 Hours Matters

Our Immediate Action Plan

When you call us after a Throckmorton County trucking accident, we:

1. Send Spoliation Letters Immediately: Formal legal notice demanding preservation of all evidence
2. Demand ECM/Black Box Data: Critical evidence of speed, braking, and engine performance
3. Obtain ELD Records: Proof of hours of service compliance or violations
4. Preserve Dashcam Footage: Video evidence of the accident and driver behavior
5. Secure the Physical Truck: Before it’s repaired or sold
6. Obtain Maintenance Records: To identify any deferred maintenance or known defects
7. Collect Driver Qualification Files: To identify hiring, training, or supervision failures
8. Gather Cell Phone Records: To prove distracted driving
9. Canvass for Surveillance Video: From nearby businesses or traffic cameras
10. Photograph the Scene: Before conditions change
11. Interview Witnesses: Before memories fade

The Legal Process: What to Expect in Your Throckmorton County Case

Step 1: Free Consultation

We offer free, no-obligation consultations to evaluate your case. During this consultation, we’ll:

• Listen to your story
• Review any evidence you’ve collected
• Explain your legal rights and options
• Answer your questions
• Help you understand what to expect

Step 2: Case Acceptance

If we believe we can help you, we’ll accept your case 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

Step 3: Investigation

We immediately begin investigating your case:

• Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
• Obtain police reports and accident scene photos
• Collect medical records and bills
• Interview witnesses
• Retain accident reconstruction experts
• Analyze electronic data from the truck
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Step 4: Medical Care Facilitation

We help you get the medical treatment you need:

• Connect you with appropriate medical providers
• Help arrange transportation to appointments
• Ensure you receive comprehensive care
• Document all treatment for your case

Step 5: Demand Letter

Once we understand the full extent of your injuries and damages, we send a comprehensive demand letter to the insurance company detailing:

• How the accident happened
• Who was at fault
• The extent of your injuries
• Your medical treatment and prognosis
• Your economic damages
• Your non-economic damages
• The total compensation you’re seeking

Step 6: Negotiation

We negotiate aggressively with the insurance company:

• Presenting evidence of liability
• Documenting your damages
• Countering their attempts to minimize your claim
• Pushing for maximum compensation

Most cases settle during this phase, but we’re always prepared to go to trial if necessary.

Step 7: Litigation (If Needed)

If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we file a lawsuit and begin the litigation process:

• Filing the complaint
• Conducting discovery (interrogatories, document requests, depositions)
• Retaining expert witnesses
• Preparing for trial

Step 8: Resolution

Your case may be resolved through:

• Settlement negotiations
• Mediation
• Arbitration
• Trial verdict

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

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Throckmorton 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 with:

• Deep experience in trucking litigation
• Insider knowledge of insurance company tactics
• The resources to take on large trucking companies
• A track record of multi-million dollar results
• Compassion for what you’re going through

Our Unique Advantages

1. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience: Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998. He has federal court experience in the Southern District of Texas and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements.

2. Insurance Defense Insider: Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. He spent years on the other side, and now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

3. Federal Court Access: We’re admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, which is critical for interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court.

4. Multi-Million Dollar Results: We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims, including cases against major carriers like Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS.

5. Comprehensive Investigation: We leave no stone unturned in investigating your case. We obtain ECM data, ELD records, maintenance logs, and all other critical evidence before it disappears.

6. Aggressive Litigation: 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 in court if necessary.

7. Compassionate Representation: We understand the trauma you’re experiencing. We treat every client like family, not just another case number.

8. No Fee Unless We Win: We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This makes our services accessible to everyone, regardless of financial situation.

9. 24/7 Availability: Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. We’re available when you need us.

10. Local Knowledge: We know Throckmorton County’s roads, courts, and communities. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.

Our Client Testimonials

Our clients consistently praise our dedication, results, and compassion:

“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

“Ralph reached out personally.”
— Dame Haskett, 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

Our Documented Results

While every case is unique, 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
• $10M Lawsuit Filed: University of Houston hazing litigation (active)
• $50+ Million recovered for Texas families

What to Do If You’ve Been in a Throckmorton County Trucking Accident

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Throckmorton County, take these steps immediately:

1. Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel okay, get checked out. Many injuries don’t show symptoms immediately
3. Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of:
   • All vehicles involved
   • Damage to your vehicle and the truck
   • The accident scene (road conditions, skid marks, traffic signals)
   • Your injuries
   • Any visible cargo or securement issues
4. Collect Information:
   • Truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
   • Trucking company name and DOT number
   • Insurance information
   • Witness names and contact information
5. Do NOT Give Statements: Do not give recorded statements to any insurance company without consulting an attorney
6. Call Attorney911: Contact us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. The sooner we get involved, the better we can protect your rights

Frequently Asked Questions About Throckmorton County Trucking Accidents

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

If you’re able, take these steps immediately:

• Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance
• 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. Throckmorton County hospitals and 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?

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 Throckmorton County?

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

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Throckmorton 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 but for trucks. This data can show:

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

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

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

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

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

What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We pursue:

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

Can the trucking company destroy evidence?

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

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

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

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

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

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

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find:

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

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

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

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

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

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

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

What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents?

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 Throckmorton County?

Case values depend on many factors:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages 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 Throckmorton 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 Texas?

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.

Call Attorney911 Now for Your Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Throckmorton County, time is critical. Evidence is disappearing right now. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect their interests. You need someone protecting yours.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll:

• Listen to your story
• Explain your legal rights and options
• Help you understand what to expect
• Answer all your questions
• Send spoliation letters immediately to preserve evidence
• Begin building your case right away

Remember, we work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. There’s no risk, only the potential for justice and compensation.

Don’t wait. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re here 24/7 to help you through this difficult time.

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