18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Hockley County, Texas

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Hockley County, Texas, you need experienced legal representation that understands the unique challenges of trucking litigation. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by catastrophic truck crashes.

Why Hockley County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Hockley County’s position along major freight corridors creates unique risks for motorists. The trucking corridors serving our area, including the distribution centers and highways where drivers may be violating federal hours-of-service regulations, require specialized legal knowledge. This local expertise, combined with our deep understanding of FMCSA regulations, gives us a significant advantage in building your case.

Every year, thousands of 18-wheeler accidents occur on Hockley County’s highways. The impact of an 80,000-pound truck against a passenger vehicle is catastrophic. In an instant, lives are changed forever. If you’re reading this after being injured in a trucking accident in Hockley County, you need to know that the trucking company already has lawyers working to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of representation.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. A fully loaded truck can weigh 20-25 times more than a passenger car. At highway speeds, an 80,000-pound truck needs nearly two football fields to stop safely. When these massive vehicles collide with smaller cars, the results are often tragic:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Amputations
• Severe burns
• Internal organ damage
• Wrongful death

These injuries can require lifelong medical care, prevent you from working, and dramatically alter your quality of life. The trucking company’s insurance adjusters know this – and they’re trained to minimize your claim.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Hockley County

Our experience handling trucking cases throughout Hockley County has shown us the most common causes of these devastating accidents:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Federal regulations limit truck drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty. They cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour on duty and must take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving. Despite these clear rules, driver fatigue causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. When drivers violate these hours of service regulations, they become too tired to react safely to road conditions.

Improper Maintenance and Brake Failures

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. Trucking companies are required to systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles. When they cut corners on maintenance to save costs, the results can be deadly. We’ve seen cases where worn brake pads, improper brake adjustments, or air brake system failures have led to catastrophic accidents on Hockley County highways.

Cargo Securement Failures

Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, destabilizing the truck and causing rollovers or jackknife accidents. Cargo securement violations are among the top 10 most common FMCSA violations. When cargo spills onto the roadway, it creates hazards for other motorists and can lead to multi-vehicle pileups.

Distracted and Impaired Driving

Truck drivers are prohibited from using hand-held mobile phones while driving and are strictly forbidden from texting. Despite these regulations, distracted driving remains a significant problem. Alcohol and drug use also contribute to many trucking accidents. FMCSA regulations prohibit drivers from using alcohol within 4 hours of going on duty and from having any alcohol in their system while on duty.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Trucking companies often pressure drivers to meet tight delivery schedules, leading to speeding and other reckless behaviors. Federal regulations specifically prohibit motor carriers from scheduling runs that would require drivers to exceed speed limits. The faster a truck travels, the longer it takes to stop – and the more devastating the impact when it collides with another vehicle.

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Trucks need significant space to complete turns safely. When making right turns, drivers often swing wide to the left before turning right, creating a gap that smaller vehicles may try to enter. As the truck completes its turn, it can crush or strike the vehicle that entered this gap. These accidents are particularly common at intersections throughout Hockley County.

The Critical 48-Hour Window After Your Accident

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

Black Box Data Can Be Overwritten

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that continuously record operational data – similar to airplane black boxes. This data can show:

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

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened. However, ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events.

ELD Data Proves Hours of Service Violations

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, but FMCSA only requires 6 months retention for ELD data.

Dashcam Footage Gets Deleted

Many trucks have dashcams that record video of the road ahead and sometimes the cab interior. This footage can be crucial evidence, but it’s often deleted within 7-14 days unless preserved.

Surveillance Video Disappears

Businesses along the accident route may have security cameras that captured the crash. However, these systems typically overwrite footage within 7-30 days.

Witness Memories Fade

Witnesses’ memories of the accident become less reliable as time passes. Getting their statements while the events are fresh is crucial.

Physical Evidence Gets Destroyed

The truck and trailer may be repaired, sold, or scrapped. Failed components may be discarded. Road conditions may change.

At Attorney911, we understand the urgency. We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained to preserve this critical evidence before it’s lost forever.

Who Can Be Held Liable in Your Hockley County Trucking Accident?

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

The Truck Driver

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

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

The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

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

Vicarious Liability: Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment.

Direct Negligence: Trucking companies can also be directly liable for:

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

The Cargo Owner / Shipper

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

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

The Cargo Loading Company

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

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

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

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

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

Parts Manufacturers

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

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

Maintenance Companies

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

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

Freight Brokers

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

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

The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

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

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

Government Entities

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

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

Our investigation process identifies every potentially liable party to maximize your recovery.

FMCSA Regulations: The Key to Proving Negligence

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

When trucking companies and drivers violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that cause catastrophic accidents. Proving FMCSA violations is often the key to establishing negligence and securing maximum compensation.

The 6 Critical Parts of FMCSA Regulations

Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR Part 391)

FMCSA establishes minimum qualifications for commercial drivers. Motor carriers must maintain a Driver Qualification (DQ) File for every driver containing:

• Employment application
• Motor Vehicle Record from state licensing authority
• Road test certificate or equivalent
• Medical examiner’s certificate (valid for max 2 years)
• Annual driving record review
• Previous employer inquiries (3-year driving history investigation)
• Drug and alcohol test records

If the trucking company failed to maintain a proper DQ file, failed to check the driver’s background, or hired a driver with a poor safety record, they can be held liable for negligent hiring.

Hours of Service Regulations (49 CFR Part 395)

These are the most commonly violated regulations in trucking accidents:

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

Vehicle Safety and Maintenance (49 CFR Parts 393 & 396)

All CMVs must have properly functioning brake systems, lighting, and other safety equipment. Motor carriers must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles.

Brake Requirements:

• Service brakes on all wheels
• Parking/emergency brake system
• Air brake systems must meet specific requirements
• Brake adjustment must be maintained within specifications

Lighting Requirements:

• Headlamps, tail lamps, stop lamps
• Clearance and side marker lamps
• Reflectors and retroreflective sheeting
• Turn signal lamps

Inspection Requirements:

• Drivers must conduct pre-trip inspections
• Post-trip inspection reports must be prepared
• Annual comprehensive inspections required
• Records must be retained for 1 year

Brake failures cause 29% of truck accidents. If the trucking company failed to maintain proper records or deferred maintenance, they are liable for negligence.

Cargo Securement (49 CFR Part 393)

Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent:

• Leaking, spilling, blowing, or falling from the vehicle
• Shifting that affects vehicle stability or maneuverability
• Blocking the driver’s view or interfering with operation

Cargo securement systems must withstand:

• Forward: 0.8 g deceleration (sudden stop)
• Rearward: 0.5 g acceleration
• Lateral: 0.5 g (side-to-side)
• Downward: At least 20% of cargo weight if not fully contained

Cargo securement violations are among the top 10 most common FMCSA violations and can cause rollover, jackknife, and spill accidents.

The Evidence We Preserve in Your Case

At Attorney911, we understand that evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. Our 48-hour evidence preservation protocol ensures that critical information is secured before it’s lost.

Electronic Data We Preserve

Physical Evidence We Secure

• The truck and trailer themselves
• Failed or damaged components
• Cargo and securement devices
• Tire remnants if blowout involved
• Any hazardous materials involved

Records We Subpoena

• Complete Driver Qualification File
• Maintenance and repair records
• Inspection reports
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training records
• The physical truck and trailer for inspection

Catastrophic Injuries from 18-Wheeler Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm. When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a 4,000-pound car, the results are often tragic:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. The extreme forces in trucking accidents cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull.

Severity Levels:

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

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of Paralysis:

Lifetime Care Costs:

• Paraplegia: $1.1 million to $2.5 million+
• Quadriplegia: $3.5 million to $5 million+

Amputation

Amputations can occur at the scene due to crash forces or may be required surgically when limbs are too severely damaged.

Ongoing Medical Needs:

• Initial surgery and hospitalization
• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ per prosthetic)
• Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Occupational therapy for daily living skills
• Psychological counseling

Severe Burns

Burns occur from fuel tank ruptures, hazmat cargo spills, electrical fires, and friction burns.

Burn Classification:

Internal Organ Damage

Common internal injuries include:

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

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, Texas law allows surviving family members to recover compensation through wrongful death claims.

Damages Available:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship and guidance)
• Mental anguish and emotional distress
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred prior to death
• Pain and suffering experienced by decedent before death
• Punitive damages (if gross negligence)

In Hockley County, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is 2 years from the date of death.

Commercial Truck Insurance and Damages

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

FMCSA Minimum Insurance Requirements

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more in coverage. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.

Types of Damages Recoverable

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):

• Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
• Lost wages (past and future)
• Lost earning capacity
• Property damage
• Out-of-pocket expenses
• Life care costs

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life):

• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement
• Loss of consortium
• Physical impairment

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence):
Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company or driver acted with:

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

Texas Damage Caps

Texas has a complex cap on punitive damages:

• Greater of (2x economic damages + non-economic damages capped at $750,000) OR $200,000

Unlike some states, Texas does not cap non-economic damages in general personal injury cases.

Nuclear Verdicts: What’s Possible in Trucking Cases

The trucking industry is seeing unprecedented jury verdicts. Recent major trucking verdicts demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable:

Why Nuclear Verdicts Happen:

Juries award massive verdicts when they find:

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

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

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Hockley County, take these steps immediately if you’re able:

1. Call 911 and report the accident

   • Request police and emergency medical services
   • Report all injuries, even if they seem minor

2. Seek medical attention

   • Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents
   • Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms immediately
   • Hockley County hospitals can identify injuries that will become critical evidence

3. Document the scene

   • Take photos and video of:
     • All vehicle damage (interior and exterior)
     • The accident scene and road conditions
     • Skid marks, debris patterns
     • Traffic signals and signs
     • Your injuries
   • Get the truck and trailer license plates
   • Note the DOT number (on truck door)
   • Get the trucking company name and logo

4. Collect information

   • Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
   • Witness names and phone numbers
   • Responding officer’s name and badge number
   • Weather and road conditions

5. Do NOT give 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

6. Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately

   • Critical evidence disappears quickly
   • We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve evidence

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Hockley County Trucking Case?

25+ Years of Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. With over 25 years of courtroom experience, he has the knowledge and skills to handle even the most complex trucking cases.

Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court admission is critical for interstate trucking cases, which often involve federal regulations and can be filed in federal court.

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Tactics

Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working at a national defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims, including:

• $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

Comprehensive Investigation

We leave no stone unturned in investigating your case:

• Send spoliation letters immediately to preserve evidence
• Obtain ECM/black box data before it’s overwritten
• Subpoena ELD records to prove hours of service violations
• Review Driver Qualification Files for negligent hiring
• Inspect maintenance records for deferred repairs
• Analyze cargo securement documentation
• Hire accident reconstruction experts
• Interview witnesses while memories are fresh

Aggressive Litigation

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. Our federal court experience and willingness to take cases to verdict gives us leverage in negotiations.

Compassionate Representation

We understand the catastrophic impact 18-wheeler accidents have on victims and families. Our team treats every client like family, providing the personal attention and support you need during this difficult time.

Bilingual Services

Hablamos Español. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Many trucking accident victims in Hockley County speak Spanish as their primary language, and we ensure they receive the same high-quality representation.

Three Convenient Texas Locations

With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we’re never far from Hockley County. Our team regularly handles trucking cases throughout the region.

Frequently Asked Questions About 18-Wheeler Accidents in Hockley County

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Hockley County, take these steps immediately if you’re able:

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
• Document the scene with photos and video if possible
• Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
• Collect witness contact information
• Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
• Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately

Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?

YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Hockley 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 Hockley 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 Hockley County?

Multiple parties may be liable in trucking accidents:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company/motor carrier
• The cargo owner or shipper
• The company that loaded the cargo
• Truck or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers
• The truck owner (if different from carrier)
• Government entities (for road defects)

We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?

Usually YES. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for:

• Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified drivers)
• Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
• Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
• Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)

What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs – the data tells the true story.

What is an owner-operator and does that affect my case?

An owner-operator is a driver who owns their own truck and contracts with trucking companies. This can complicate liability, but both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.

How do I find out if the trucking company has a bad safety record?

FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain the carrier’s:

• CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
• Inspection history and out-of-service rates
• Crash history
• Safety rating

A poor safety record can prove the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on the road.

What is a truck’s “black box” and how does it help my case?

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data – similar to airplane black boxes. This data can show:

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

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

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

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

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

What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We pursue:

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

Can the trucking company destroy evidence?

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

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

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

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

• Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 hours off
• 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 in Hockley County?

Due to the massive size and weight disparity, trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Amputations
• Severe burns
• Internal organ damage
• Multiple fractures
• Wrongful death

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Hockley County?

Case values depend on many factors:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of defendant’s negligence
• Insurance coverage available

Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents. We’ve seen verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions.

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

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years from the date of death – contact us immediately to protect your rights.

How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Hockley County?

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

• Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
• Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
• Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

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

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys. We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way if necessary.

Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?

NO. We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Hockley County, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every hour. Call Attorney911 now for a free consultation.

Toll-Free: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct Houston: (713) 528-9070
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: https://attorney911.com

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.

Free consultation • No fee unless we win • Available 24/7

Our Hockley County 18-wheeler accident attorneys are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. We know the trucking corridors, the courts, and how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable. Call us today.