18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Gregg County, Texas
When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Your Life Forever
Every year, hundreds of families in Gregg County face life-altering consequences from 18-wheeler accidents on our local highways. The impact of an 80,000-pound truck colliding with your vehicle isn’t just catastrophic – it’s permanently life-changing. At Attorney911, we’ve dedicated our practice to fighting for victims of trucking accidents across East Texas, with a deep understanding of Gregg County’s unique trucking corridors, local courts, and the devastating impact these crashes have on our community.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident anywhere in Gregg County – whether on I-20, US-259, or any of our local roads – you need more than just a lawyer. You need a legal emergency response team that understands both the federal trucking regulations and the local realities of Gregg County’s trucking industry.
Why Gregg County’s Trucking Accidents Are Different
Gregg County sits at a critical crossroads for commercial freight. Our position along I-20, one of America’s busiest east-west trucking corridors, brings massive volumes of commercial traffic through our community. The convergence of I-20 with major state highways like US-259 and SH-31 creates dangerous intersections where trucking accidents frequently occur.
Local factors that make Gregg County trucking accidents particularly dangerous:
- I-20 Corridor: This major interstate carries heavy truck traffic through Longview, Kilgore, and Gladewater, with frequent congestion points that create accident risks
- Oil and Gas Industry: The energy sector generates significant truck traffic hauling drilling equipment, fracking materials, and petroleum products
- Distribution Hubs: Warehouses and distribution centers in the Longview area create concentrated truck traffic in specific zones
- Local Delivery Routes: Trucks servicing Gregg County businesses navigate our streets daily, increasing accident risks for local drivers
- Seasonal Variations: Weather patterns in East Texas, including heavy rains and occasional ice, create unique challenges for truck drivers unfamiliar with local conditions
Our attorneys have handled trucking cases throughout Gregg County, from accidents on I-20 near the Loop 281 interchange to crashes on local routes like Estes Parkway. We know the specific challenges these cases present in our community.
The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents
When an 18-wheeler collides with a passenger vehicle, the physics are brutal:
- An 80,000-pound truck carries 20-25 times the weight of your car
- At highway speeds, the force of impact is equivalent to being struck by a falling airplane
- Stopping distance for a loaded truck at 65 mph: 525 feet – nearly two football fields
- Underride collisions often result in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries
- Rollover accidents frequently cause crushing injuries to multiple vehicles
The injuries we see in Gregg County trucking accidents are often catastrophic:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) that change personalities and destroy families
- Spinal cord injuries resulting in permanent paralysis
- Amputations from crushing forces or entrapment
- Severe burns from fuel fires or hazardous cargo spills
- Internal organ damage from blunt force trauma
- Wrongful death that leaves families devastated
These aren’t just injuries – they’re life sentences. The medical costs alone can bankrupt families, while the emotional toll is immeasurable.
Why Trucking Companies Must Be Held Accountable
Trucking companies operate under a complex web of federal regulations designed to protect public safety. When they cut corners, people in Gregg County pay the price. Common violations we uncover in our investigations:
Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395):
- Drivers exceeding the 11-hour driving limit
- Falsifying electronic logging device (ELD) records
- Operating beyond the 14-hour on-duty window
- Skipping required 30-minute breaks
- Violating 60/70-hour weekly limits
Driver Qualification Failures (49 CFR Part 391):
- Hiring drivers with poor safety records
- Failing to conduct proper background checks
- Not verifying commercial driver’s licenses (CDL)
- Ignoring medical disqualifications
- Incomplete driver qualification files
Vehicle Maintenance Neglect (49 CFR Part 396):
- Worn brakes that fail to stop the truck
- Bald tires prone to blowouts
- Defective lighting systems
- Failure to conduct required inspections
- Deferred repairs to save costs
Cargo Securement Failures (49 CFR Part 393):
- Improperly secured loads that shift during transit
- Inadequate tiedowns that fail under stress
- Overloaded trailers exceeding weight limits
- Hazardous materials not properly contained
Distracted and Impaired Driving (49 CFR Part 392):
- Cell phone use while driving
- Texting behind the wheel
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Operating while fatigued or medically impaired
The Attorney911 Difference: Fighting for Gregg County Families
When you choose Attorney911 for your Gregg County trucking accident case, you’re not just hiring a law firm – you’re gaining a dedicated team with:
25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience
Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. His experience includes:
- Recovering multi-million dollar settlements for trucking accident victims
- Handling cases in federal court (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
- Litigating against major trucking companies and their insurance carriers
- Securing compensation for catastrophic injuries and wrongful death
Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics
Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for the other side. He knows exactly how insurance companies:
- Train adjusters to minimize claims
- Use recorded statements against victims
- Delay cases to pressure victims into accepting lowball offers
- Deny claims based on technicalities
A Proven Track Record of Results
We’ve recovered millions for Gregg County families affected by trucking accidents, including:
- $5+ million for a brain injury victim in a logging accident
- $3.8+ million for a car accident victim who suffered amputation
- $2.5+ million for truck crash victims
- Millions more for families in wrongful death cases
Local Knowledge of Gregg County
We understand Gregg County’s:
- Trucking corridors and high-risk zones
- Local courts and judges
- Jury pools and community values
- Emergency response patterns
- Medical facilities and treatment options
Compassionate, Client-Focused Representation
We treat every client like family. Our Gregg County clients consistently praise:
- Our responsiveness and communication
- Our willingness to fight for maximum compensation
- Our ability to take cases other firms rejected
- Our commitment to their recovery
“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
What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Gregg County
If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Gregg County, time is critical. Evidence disappears quickly, and trucking companies move fast to protect their interests. Follow these steps:
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Call 911 Immediately
- Report the accident and request emergency assistance
- Ensure police create an official accident report
- Get medical attention even if injuries seem minor
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Document the Scene
- Take photographs of all vehicles involved
- Capture the truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company information
- Photograph road conditions, skid marks, and traffic signs
- Get contact information from witnesses
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Preserve Critical Evidence
- Do NOT let the trucking company take possession of their vehicle
- Demand preservation of the truck’s black box data
- Request the driver’s electronic logging device (ELD) records
- Note the truck’s condition (tire wear, brake condition, lighting)
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Seek Medical Attention
- Visit the emergency room or urgent care immediately
- Follow all treatment recommendations from medical professionals
- Document all symptoms, even if they seem minor
- Keep records of all medical visits and expenses
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Contact Attorney911 Immediately
- Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for 24/7 emergency legal help
- We’ll send preservation letters to protect critical evidence
- Our team will begin building your case immediately
The Evidence That Wins Trucking Cases
In trucking accident cases, evidence is everything. At Attorney911, we pursue every available piece of evidence to build your case:
Electronic Data:
- Engine Control Module (ECM) / Black Box data
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
- GPS and telematics data
- Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
- Cell phone records
- Dispatch communications
Driver Records:
- Complete Driver Qualification File
- Employment application and background check
- Driving record and previous employers
- Medical certification and exam records
- Drug and alcohol test results
- Training records and certifications
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
Company Records:
- Hours of service records for 6 months prior
- Dispatch logs and trip records
- Bills of lading and cargo documentation
- Safety policies and procedures
- Training curricula
- Hiring and supervision policies
Accident Scene Evidence:
- Police accident report
- Photographs and videos from the scene
- Witness statements
- Roadway condition reports
- Weather data
- Accident reconstruction analysis
All Parties We Hold Accountable in Gregg County Trucking Cases
In trucking accidents, multiple parties may share liability. We investigate and pursue claims against all potentially responsible parties:
The Truck Driver
For direct negligence including speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, impairment, or traffic violations.
The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)
For vicarious liability, negligent hiring, negligent training, negligent supervision, and negligent maintenance.
The Cargo Owner/Shipper
For improper loading instructions, failure to disclose hazardous cargo, or requiring overweight loads.
The Cargo Loading Company
For improper securement, unbalanced loads, or exceeding weight ratings.
Truck and Trailer Manufacturers
For design defects, manufacturing defects, or failure to warn of known dangers.
Parts Manufacturers
For defective components like brakes, tires, or steering mechanisms.
Maintenance Companies
For negligent repairs, failure to identify safety issues, or using substandard parts.
Freight Brokers
For negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records.
Truck Owners (If Different from Carrier)
For negligent entrustment of vehicles to unqualified drivers.
Government Entities
For dangerous road design, failure to maintain roads, or inadequate signage.
Common Types of Trucking Accidents in Gregg County
Our attorneys have handled every type of trucking accident that occurs in Gregg County:
Jackknife Accidents
When the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes. Common causes include sudden braking, wet roads, or improper loading.
Rollover Accidents
When the truck tips onto its side or roof. Common on curves, ramps, and when taking turns too sharply at excessive speeds.
Underride Collisions
When a smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer, often resulting in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries. These are among the most deadly trucking accidents.
Rear-End Collisions
When a truck fails to stop in time and strikes the vehicle in front. Due to their size, trucks require much longer stopping distances.
Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)
When a truck swings wide before making a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter, then crushing them during the turn.
Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)
When a truck changes lanes without seeing vehicles in its blind spots, particularly on the right side.
Tire Blowout Accidents
When a tire fails suddenly, causing the driver to lose control. Common causes include underinflation, overloading, or worn tires.
Brake Failure Accidents
When the truck’s braking system fails or underperforms, preventing the driver from stopping in time.
Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents
When improperly secured cargo falls from the truck or shifts during transit, destabilizing the vehicle.
Head-On Collisions
When a truck crosses into oncoming traffic, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or death.
The Legal Process for Your Gregg County Trucking Case
When you choose Attorney911, we guide you through every step of the legal process:
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Free Initial Consultation
- We evaluate your case at no cost
- Explain your legal rights and options
- Determine the best strategy for your situation
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Immediate Evidence Preservation
- Send spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties
- Demand preservation of black box, ELD, and other electronic data
- Secure physical evidence before it’s destroyed
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Comprehensive Investigation
- Obtain police accident reports
- Collect witness statements
- Analyze electronic data from the truck
- Review maintenance and inspection records
- Examine driver qualification files
-
Medical Treatment Coordination
- Help you access necessary medical care
- Document your injuries and treatment
- Work with medical experts to assess long-term needs
-
Demand Letter and Negotiation
- Prepare a comprehensive demand package
- Calculate all economic and non-economic damages
- Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies
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Litigation (If Necessary)
- File a lawsuit in the appropriate Gregg County court
- Conduct discovery to gather additional evidence
- Take depositions of key witnesses
- Prepare your case for trial
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Resolution
- Negotiate a fair settlement
- Or take your case to trial if necessary
- Ensure you receive maximum compensation
Compensation Available for Gregg County Trucking Accident Victims
In Texas, trucking accident victims may be entitled to various types of compensation:
Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):
- Past, present, and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and income
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Property damage
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Life care costs for catastrophic injuries
Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life):
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement
- Physical impairment
- Loss of consortium (for spouses)
Punitive Damages (In Cases of Gross Negligence):
- Additional compensation to punish wrongdoers
- Available when trucking companies act with reckless disregard for safety
- Texas law allows punitive damages up to the greater of:
- Two times economic damages plus non-economic damages (capped at $750,000)
- Or $200,000
Why Time Is Critical in Your Gregg County Trucking Case
Evidence in trucking accident cases disappears quickly. Critical timelines you need to know:
- ECM/Black Box Data: Can be overwritten in as little as 30 days
- ELD Data: May be retained for only 6 months
- Dashcam Footage: Often deleted within 7-14 days
- Surveillance Video: Business cameras typically overwrite in 7-30 days
- Witness Memory: Fades significantly within weeks
- Physical Evidence: Vehicles may be repaired, sold, or scrapped
- Drug/Alcohol Tests: Must be conducted within specific windows
Texas Statute of Limitations:
You have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit in Texas. However, you should never wait this long. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gregg County Trucking Accidents
What should I do immediately after a trucking accident in Gregg County?
Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene, collect witness information, and contact Attorney911 immediately. Do not give recorded statements to any insurance company.
Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Gregg County?
Multiple parties may be liable, including the truck driver, trucking company, cargo owner, loading company, maintenance company, manufacturers, and even government entities.
How much is my trucking accident case worth?
Case values depend on injury severity, medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and available insurance coverage. Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits ($750,000 minimum), allowing for larger recoveries.
Will my 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, which strengthens our negotiating position.
How long will my case take to resolve?
Simple cases may resolve in 6-12 months. Complex cases with severe injuries can take 1-3 years. We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.
Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?
No. We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Texas follows modified comparative negligence rules. You can recover compensation as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
How do I prove the truck driver was fatigued?
We use ELD data, dispatch records, cell phone records, and other evidence to prove hours of service violations and driver fatigue.
What if the trucking company claims the driver was an independent contractor?
Even if the driver is an independent contractor, the trucking company may still be liable for negligent hiring, training, or supervision.
Can I still recover compensation if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
Yes. We pursue all available insurance coverage, including excess and umbrella policies, to ensure you receive fair compensation.
What if the truck’s black box data was destroyed?
Destroying evidence after receiving a spoliation letter can result in serious legal consequences, including adverse inferences and punitive damages.
How do I access the trucking company’s safety records?
We obtain the carrier’s CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores and inspection history through the FMCSA’s public database.
What if the truck driver fled the scene?
Hit-and-run trucking accidents require immediate investigation. We work with law enforcement and private investigators to identify the responsible parties.
Can I sue for PTSD after a trucking accident?
Yes. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a compensable injury in trucking accident cases.
What if I lost a loved one in a trucking accident?
Texas allows wrongful death claims for surviving family members, including compensation for lost income, loss of companionship, and mental anguish.
Why Gregg County Families Choose Attorney911
When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a dedicated advocate who understands both the legal complexities and the human impact. Here’s why Gregg County families trust us with their most important cases:
We’re Local
We know Gregg County’s roads, courts, and community. Our attorneys have handled cases throughout East Texas, from Longview to Kilgore to Gladewater.
We’re Experienced
With 25+ years of trucking litigation experience, we’ve seen every trick the trucking companies use – and we know how to counter them.
We’re Aggressive
We don’t back down from powerful trucking companies or their insurance carriers. We fight for every dollar you deserve.
We’re Compassionate
We understand the emotional toll these accidents take on families. We treat every client with the care and respect they deserve.
We’re Available
We answer calls 24/7 and respond to emergencies immediately. When you need us, we’re here.
We Get Results
Our track record speaks for itself – millions recovered for trucking accident victims across Texas.
“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client
“I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Manginello law firm were able to help me out.”
— Greg Garcia, Attorney911 Client
Our Promise to Gregg County Families
When you choose Attorney911 for your Gregg County trucking accident case, we promise:
- We’ll fight for maximum compensation – We won’t settle for less than your case is worth
- We’ll handle everything – You focus on healing while we handle the legal battle
- We’ll communicate clearly – You’ll always know what’s happening with your case
- We’ll be available 24/7 – You can reach us anytime, day or night
- We won’t back down – We’ll take your case to trial if that’s what it takes to get justice
Contact Attorney911 Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident anywhere in Gregg County, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every minute. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect their interests – you need someone protecting yours.
Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We answer calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our Gregg County trucking accident attorneys work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Remember: The trucking company’s insurance adjuster is not your friend. Their job is to pay you as little as possible. Our job is to make sure you receive every dollar you deserve.
“They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client
Don’t face the trucking companies alone. Call Attorney911 – your Gregg County trucking accident attorneys – at 1-888-ATTY-911 today.
