18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Hood County, Texas

When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Your Life Forever

Every year, thousands of families across Texas experience the devastating impact of 18-wheeler accidents. When you’re driving down Highway 377 or navigating the truck-heavy corridors around Granbury, the last thing you expect is to be struck by a massive commercial vehicle. But if it happens to you or a loved one in Hood County, you need more than just legal help—you need a team that understands the unique challenges of trucking accidents in our community.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims throughout Hood County for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of the nation’s largest trucking companies. When you’re facing catastrophic injuries, mounting medical bills, and a trucking company that’s already building its defense, you need attorneys who know how to fight back—and win.

Why Hood County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Hood County’s position along major freight corridors creates unique risks for local drivers. The convergence of Highway 377, Highway 144, and the nearby I-20 corridor means our roads see heavy truck traffic carrying everything from oilfield equipment to consumer goods. This creates specific accident patterns that require local knowledge:

Highway 377 dangers: This major north-south route sees significant truck traffic, especially during peak hours. The mix of local traffic and commercial vehicles creates hazardous conditions, particularly at intersections and during lane changes.
Oil and gas trucking: With energy operations in nearby counties, Hood County sees specialized trucking that requires additional safety protocols. These vehicles often carry hazardous materials and oversized loads.
Rural road challenges: Many of our county’s rural roads weren’t designed for modern 18-wheelers. Narrow lanes, limited shoulders, and sharp curves create unique hazards.
Seasonal tourism traffic: Granbury’s popularity as a tourist destination means increased truck traffic delivering supplies to local businesses, creating seasonal congestion patterns.
Local distribution hubs: Warehouses and distribution centers in Hood County generate significant truck traffic, especially during morning and evening hours.

When an accident happens here, you need attorneys who understand these local factors and how they contribute to trucking accidents.

The Attorney911 Difference: Fighting for Hood County Families

What sets Attorney911 apart from other firms handling trucking accidents in Hood County?

1. We Know Trucking Companies’ Tactics From the Inside

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for a national defense firm. He knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers evaluate claims, minimize payouts, and deny legitimate cases. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for accident victims like you.

2. We’re Not Just Texas Attorneys—We’re Hood County Attorneys

While many firms handle cases statewide, we understand the unique aspects of Hood County trucking accidents. We know the local courts, the judges, and the specific challenges our community faces. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.

3. We’ve Fought—and Won—Against Major Trucking Companies

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
Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

We’ve taken on Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and other major commercial carriers—and won.

4. We Preserve Evidence Before It Disappears

Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. Critical evidence like black box data, ELD records, and dashcam footage can be overwritten or deleted quickly. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.

5. We Handle the Most Complex Trucking Cases

From multi-vehicle pileups on Highway 377 to hazmat spills on rural roads, we handle the most complex trucking accident cases. Our experience includes:

Jackknife accidents
Rollover crashes
Underride collisions
Brake failures
Tire blowouts
Cargo spills
Wrongful death cases

6. We’re Available When You Need Us Most

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. That’s why we’re available 24/7 to answer your call and take immediate action to protect your case. When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’ll speak with someone who can help right away.

Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Hood County

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic. These are particularly dangerous on Highway 377 where sudden braking or improper maneuvering can cause the trailer to swing across traffic.

Common causes in Hood County:

Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
Speeding on curves or during lane changes
Improperly loaded or empty trailers
Brake system failures
Driver inexperience with local road conditions

Rollover Accidents

Rollover accidents are among the most catastrophic trucking accidents. When an 80,000-pound vehicle tips over, it can crush multiple vehicles and spill cargo across the roadway.

Hood County-specific risk factors:

Sharp curves on rural roads
Uneven road surfaces
Improperly secured cargo
High winds common in our area
Driver fatigue from long hauls

Underride Collisions

Underride accidents occur when a vehicle slides underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler. These are often fatal because the trailer shears off the top of the smaller vehicle.

Particularly dangerous in Hood County:

Poor lighting on rural roads increases risk
Lack of side underride guards on many trailers
Sudden stops at intersections
Wide turns at local distribution centers

Rear-End Collisions

A fully loaded 18-wheeler needs approximately 525 feet to stop from 65 mph—nearly two football fields. When trucks rear-end other vehicles, the results are often catastrophic.

Common on Hood County roads:

Following too closely on Highway 377
Driver distraction (cell phones, dispatch communications)
Brake failures from deferred maintenance
Driver fatigue from long hauls

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Trucks need significant space to make turns. When they swing wide to the left before making a right turn, they create a dangerous gap that other vehicles may enter—only to be crushed when the truck completes its turn.

Common at Hood County locations:

Intersections near distribution centers
Highway 377 and Highway 144 intersections
Truck stops and fueling stations
Local business loading areas

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)

Trucks have massive blind spots—especially on the right side where the No-Zone extends the entire length of the trailer. Many Hood County accidents occur when trucks change lanes without seeing vehicles in their blind spots.

Particularly dangerous on:

Highway 377 during lane changes
Highway 144 with its mix of local and commercial traffic
Rural roads where drivers may not be aware of blind spots

Tire Blowout Accidents

Tire blowouts can cause trucks to lose control, especially on our county’s roads where extreme temperature variations put additional stress on tires.

Hood County risk factors:

Heat-related tire failures
Road debris from construction zones
Improper tire maintenance
Overloaded vehicles

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. When brakes fail, trucks cannot stop in time to avoid collisions.

Common in Hood County:

Long descents on rural roads
Deferred maintenance to save costs
Improper brake adjustments
Air brake system failures

Cargo Spill Accidents

Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit or fall from trucks, creating hazards for other vehicles.

Hood County-specific risks:

Oilfield equipment not properly secured
Agricultural products shifting during transport
Construction materials falling from flatbeds
Hazardous materials spills

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

Unlike typical car accidents where usually only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple liable parties. We investigate every potential defendant to maximize your recovery:

1. The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

Speeding or reckless driving
Distracted driving (cell phone use, dispatch communications)
Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
Traffic law violations

2. The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

Trucking companies are often the primary defendants because they have the deepest pockets. They can be liable for:

Vicarious Liability:

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

Direct Negligence:

Negligent Hiring: Failed to check driver’s background or qualifications
Negligent Training: Inadequate safety or equipment training
Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance
Negligent Maintenance: Failed to maintain vehicles properly
Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate hours of service

3. Cargo Owner/Shipper

The company that owned the cargo 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

4. 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 or tiedowns

5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

Manufacturers may be liable for:

Design defects (brake systems, stability control)
Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
Failure to warn of known dangers
Defective safety systems

6. Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufacture specific parts may be liable for:

Defective brakes or brake components
Defective tires causing blowouts
Defective steering mechanisms
Defective lighting components

7. Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance providers 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

8. Freight Broker

Freight brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

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

9. Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

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

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

10. Government Entity

In limited circumstances, government entities may be liable for:

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

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

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

Why 48 Hours Matters

Evidence Type	Destruction Risk
ECM/Black Box Data	Overwrites in 30 days or with new driving events
ELD Data	May be retained 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	Vehicle may be repaired, sold, or scrapped
Drug/Alcohol Tests	Must be conducted within specific windows

What We Do Within 48 Hours

Send Formal Spoliation Letters
- Demand preservation of all evidence
- Put defendants on legal notice
- Create consequences for evidence destruction
Preserve Electronic Data
- ECM/Black box data (speed, braking, throttle)
- ELD records (hours of service compliance)
- GPS and telematics data
- Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
- Dispatch communications
Secure Physical Evidence
- The truck and trailer themselves
- Failed or damaged components
- Cargo and securement devices
- Tire remnants (if blowout involved)
Obtain Critical Records
- Driver Qualification File
- Maintenance and repair records
- Inspection reports
- Dispatch logs
- Drug and alcohol test results
Document the Scene
- Photograph all vehicle damage
- Document road conditions
- Measure skid marks
- Preserve scene evidence

Catastrophic Injuries from Hood County Trucking Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a 4,000-pound passenger vehicle, the results are often devastating.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

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

Severity Levels:

Level	Symptoms	Prognosis
Mild (Concussion)	Confusion, headache, brief loss of consciousness	Usually recovers, but may have lasting effects
Moderate	Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits	Significant recovery possible with rehabilitation
Severe	Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment	Lifelong disability, may require 24/7 care

Common symptoms:

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

Lifetime care costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Spinal cord injuries disrupt communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of Paralysis:

Type	Definition	Impact
Paraplegia	Loss of function below the waist	Cannot walk, may affect bladder/bowel control
Quadriplegia	Loss of function in all four limbs	Cannot walk or use arms, may need breathing assistance
Incomplete Injury	Some nerve function remains	Variable – may have some sensation or movement
Complete Injury	No nerve function below injury	Total loss of sensation and movement

Level of Injury Matters:

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

Lifetime care costs:

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

Amputation

Amputations occur when limbs are severed at the scene or must be surgically removed due to severe damage.

Types:

Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the scene
Surgical Amputation: Limb so severely damaged it must be removed

Ongoing medical needs:

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

Impact on life:

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

Severe Burns

Burns occur from fuel fires, hazmat spills, or friction burns from road contact.

Burn Classification:

Degree	Depth	Treatment
First	Epidermis only	Minor, heals without scarring
Second	Epidermis and dermis	May scar, may need grafting
Third	Full thickness	Requires skin grafts, permanent scarring
Fourth	Through skin to muscle/bone	Multiple surgeries, amputation may be required

Long-term consequences:

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

Internal Organ Damage

Common internal injuries include:

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

Why dangerous:

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

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can pursue wrongful death claims.

Who can bring a claim in Texas:

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

Damages available:

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

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

Cargo Type	Minimum Coverage
Non-Hazardous Freight (10,001+ lbs GVWR)	$750,000
Oil/Petroleum (10,001+ lbs GVWR)	$1,000,000
Large Equipment (10,001+ lbs GVWR)	$1,000,000
Hazardous Materials (All)	$5,000,000
Passengers (16+ passengers)	$5,000,000
Passengers (15 or fewer)	$1,500,000

Why this matters for your case:
Unlike car accidents where insurance may be limited to $30,000-$100,000, trucking accidents typically have at least $750,000 available—and often much more. Many carriers carry $1-5 million 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 and income
Lost earning capacity
Property damage
Out-of-pocket expenses (transportation, home modifications)
Life care costs (ongoing care for catastrophic injuries)

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

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

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

Nuclear Verdicts: What’s Possible in Trucking Cases

Recent years have seen unprecedented jury verdicts against trucking companies:

Amount	Year	Location	Case Details
$462 Million	2024	St. Louis, MO	Underride decapitation case
$160 Million	2024	Alabama	Rollover left driver quadriplegic
$141.5 Million	2024	Florida	Defunct carrier crash
$730 Million	2021	Texas	Oversize load killed 73-year-old woman
$150 Million	2022	Texas	Two children killed on I-30

Why these 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

Frequently Asked Questions About Hood County Trucking Accidents

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident anywhere in Hood 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. Hood County hospitals like Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Azle and Lake Granbury Medical Center 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 Hood County?

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

What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?

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

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Hood 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 in Hood 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 Hood 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 Hood 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.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Hood County Trucking Accident Case?

1. We’re Hood County’s Trucking Accident Specialists

While many firms handle trucking cases as part of their general practice, we specialize in them. Our entire focus is on holding trucking companies accountable and securing maximum compensation for victims like you.

2. We Have the Resources to Fight Big Trucking Companies

Major trucking companies have teams of lawyers, investigators, and insurance adjusters working to minimize your claim. We have the resources to match them:

Experienced trucking litigation attorneys
Former insurance defense attorney on staff
Accident reconstruction experts
Medical experts
Economic experts
Life care planners

3. We Know How to Prove Trucking Company Negligence

Proving negligence in trucking cases requires specialized knowledge of:

FMCSA regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399)
Hours of service violations
Driver qualification requirements
Vehicle maintenance standards
Cargo securement rules
Electronic logging device requirements

We know exactly what to look for and how to prove violations that establish negligence.

4. We’re Not Afraid to Go to Trial

While most cases settle, insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court. Our reputation for being trial-ready gives us leverage in settlement negotiations. When necessary, we’ll take your case to trial to secure the compensation you deserve.

5. We Offer Personalized Attention

At Attorney911, you’re not just a case number. You’re family. We maintain smaller caseloads so we can give each client the personalized attention they deserve. When you call, you’ll speak with someone who knows your case and can answer your questions.

6. We Speak Spanish

Hood County has a significant Hispanic population, and many trucking accident victims speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español.

7. We Have Offices Serving Hood County

With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we’re never far from Hood County. Our attorneys regularly handle cases throughout North Texas and can meet with you at a location convenient for you.

8. We Work on Contingency—No Fee Unless We Win

You pay nothing upfront. We advance all costs of your case. You only pay when we win—our fee comes from your settlement or verdict. This makes quality legal representation accessible to everyone.

What to Expect When You Work With Attorney911

Step 1: Free Case Evaluation

Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. We’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your legal options.

Step 2: Immediate Investigation

If you choose to hire us, we’ll spring into action immediately:

Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
Obtain police reports and accident scene photos
Interview witnesses while memories are fresh
Begin gathering medical records and bills

Step 3: Evidence Preservation

We’ll take steps to preserve all critical evidence:

ECM/Black box data
ELD records
Dashcam footage
Maintenance records
Driver qualification files
Cargo and loading records

Step 4: Medical Treatment Coordination

We’ll help you get the medical treatment you need, even if you don’t have health insurance. We work with medical providers who will treat you on a lien basis, meaning they get paid from your settlement.

Step 5: Demand Letter

Once your treatment is complete, we’ll prepare a comprehensive demand package that:

Details the facts of the accident
Explains the trucking company’s negligence
Documents your injuries and damages
Demands full compensation

Step 6: Negotiation

We’ll negotiate aggressively with the trucking company’s insurance to secure a fair settlement. Our former insurance defense attorney knows exactly how they evaluate claims and how to maximize your recovery.

Step 7: Litigation (If Necessary)

If the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer, we’ll file a lawsuit and take your case to court. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, which gives us leverage in settlement negotiations.

Step 8: Resolution

The vast majority of cases settle before trial. When we reach a settlement, we’ll:

Review the offer with you
Explain the pros and cons
Help you make an informed decision
Handle all the paperwork
Ensure you receive your compensation

Common Trucking Accident Scenarios in Hood County

Highway 377 Collisions

Highway 377 sees heavy truck traffic carrying goods between Fort Worth, Granbury, and Stephenville. The mix of local traffic and commercial vehicles creates hazardous conditions, particularly at intersections and during lane changes.

Common accident types:

Rear-end collisions at traffic lights
Lane change accidents
Wide turn accidents at intersections
Jackknife accidents during sudden braking
Rollover accidents on curves

Rural Road Accidents

Many of Hood County’s rural roads weren’t designed for modern 18-wheelers. Narrow lanes, limited shoulders, and sharp curves create unique hazards.

Common accident types:

Rollover accidents on curves
Head-on collisions from improper passing
Underride accidents at intersections
Cargo spill accidents from improper securement

Oil and Gas Trucking Accidents

With energy operations in nearby counties, Hood County sees specialized trucking that requires additional safety protocols.

Common accident types:

Hazmat spills
Overweight vehicle accidents
Equipment transport accidents
Tire blowouts from heavy loads

Distribution Center Accidents

Warehouses and distribution centers in Hood County generate significant truck traffic, especially during morning and evening hours.

Common accident types:

Wide turn accidents at loading docks
Blind spot accidents in parking lots
Rear-end collisions in congested areas
Cargo securement failures

Tourist Season Accidents

Granbury’s popularity as a tourist destination means increased truck traffic delivering supplies to local businesses.

Common accident types:

Congestion-related accidents
Distracted driving accidents
Fatigue-related accidents from long hours
Improper loading accidents

The Attorney911 Advantage: Why We Win Trucking Cases

1. We Know the Trucking Industry’s Secrets

Our team includes Lupe Peña, who spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how trucking companies:

Train their adjusters to minimize claims
Evaluate case values
Use delay tactics
Pressure victims to accept lowball offers

Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for accident victims like you.

2. We Understand FMCSA Regulations Inside and Out

We know the federal trucking regulations better than most trucking companies do. This allows us to:

Identify violations that prove negligence
Use regulatory violations to strengthen your case
Counter trucking company arguments that regulations don’t apply

3. We Have a Proven Track Record of Success

Our results speak for themselves:

$5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
$3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement
$2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

We’ve taken on Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and other major commercial carriers—and won.

4. We’re Not Intimidated by Big Trucking Companies

Many firms shy away from trucking cases because they’re complex and expensive to litigate. We’re not afraid to take on the toughest cases and the biggest companies. We have the resources, experience, and determination to fight for you.

5. We Offer 24/7 Availability

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. That’s why we’re available 24/7 to answer your call and take immediate action to protect your case.

6. We Provide Personalized Service

7. We Speak Spanish

8. We Work on Contingency—No Fee Unless We Win

You pay nothing upfront. We advance all costs of your case. You only pay when we win—our fee comes from your settlement or verdict. This makes quality legal representation accessible to everyone.

Don’t Let the Trucking Company Take Advantage of You

After an 18-wheeler accident in Hood County, the trucking company and their insurance adjusters will be working hard to protect their interests—not yours. They’ll try to:

Get you to give a recorded statement that minimizes your injuries
Offer you a quick settlement before you know the full extent of your damages
Blame you for the accident
Delay your claim until you’re desperate for money
Destroy or hide evidence that proves their negligence

Don’t face them alone. You need experienced attorneys who know how to fight back and secure the compensation you deserve.

Call Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident anywhere in Hood County, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and take action to protect your case.

Remember:

Evidence disappears fast—act now to preserve it
The trucking company has lawyers working against you
You deserve compensation for your injuries and losses
We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win

Don’t wait. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free case evaluation. We’re here to fight for you.

“They treated me like FAMILY, not just another case number.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

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

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