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Sabine County 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys: Attorney911 Delivers 25+ Years of Courtroom-Tested Trucking Litigation Experience, Former Insurance Defense Attorney Insider Advantage, FMCSA Regulation Masters (49 CFR 390-399), Black Box & ELD Data Extraction Specialists, Jackknife, Rollover, Underride, Brake Failure & All Crash Types, Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Damage, Amputation & Wrongful Death Advocates – $50+ Million Recovered for Texas Families, Federal Court Admitted, Free 24/7 Consultation, No Fee Unless We Win, Hablamos Español, 1-888-ATTY-911

February 8, 2026 61 min read
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18-Wheeler Accidents in Sabine County: Your Complete Legal Guide

When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Your Life in an Instant

The moment an 18-wheeler crashes into your vehicle on Sabine County’s highways, your life changes forever. One second you’re driving to work, running errands, or heading home to your family. The next, you’re facing catastrophic injuries, mounting medical bills, and an uncertain future. We understand the devastation these accidents cause because we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for Sabine County families just like yours.

Trucking accidents aren’t like regular car crashes. The physics are different. The regulations are different. The insurance is different. And most importantly, the stakes are much higher. When an 80,000-pound truck traveling at highway speeds collides with a 4,000-pound passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. Traumatic brain injuries. Spinal cord damage. Amputations. Wrongful death. These aren’t just injuries – they’re life-altering events that affect every aspect of your future.

At Attorney911, we don’t just handle trucking accident cases – we specialize in them. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against some of the largest trucking companies in America. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers try to minimize claims. This insider knowledge gives us an unfair advantage when fighting for your rights.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident anywhere in Sabine County, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer 24/7, and we’ll send a preservation letter today to protect the critical evidence in your case before it disappears.

Why Sabine County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Sabine County’s unique geography and trucking corridors create specific risks that don’t exist everywhere. Our rural highways, timber industry traffic, and proximity to major freight routes mean we see accident patterns that other areas don’t experience.

Sabine County’s Trucking Corridors: Where Accidents Happen Most

While Sabine County doesn’t have major interstates running through it, our highways serve as critical connectors for regional freight movement:

  • US Highway 96: The primary north-south route through Sabine County, connecting Jasper to Hemphill and beyond. This highway sees significant timber truck traffic from our forestry industry, as well as commercial freight moving between East Texas and Louisiana.

  • State Highway 21: Running east-west through the county, this highway connects Milam to Pineland and Hemphill. It serves as an important route for agricultural products and local commerce.

  • State Highway 87: Connecting Hemphill to San Augustine, this highway carries timber trucks and local traffic.

  • FM 83: A key route for timber haulers moving between logging sites and processing facilities.

These highways present unique challenges:

  • Narrow lanes that don’t accommodate large trucks well
  • Limited shoulders that make emergency maneuvers dangerous
  • Timber truck traffic with specialized loading and securement issues
  • Seasonal variations in traffic patterns
  • Wildlife crossings that create sudden hazards
  • Limited truck parking that forces drivers to park in unsafe locations

Our timber industry creates a steady flow of heavy trucks hauling logs to mills in nearby counties. These trucks often carry loads that test the limits of weight regulations, and their cargo securement presents unique challenges. We’ve seen cases where improperly secured logs have shifted during transport, causing rollovers or cargo spills that lead to multi-vehicle accidents.

The Sabine River forms our eastern border with Louisiana, and while we don’t have major bridges that create choke points, the river crossings do see increased truck traffic, particularly from the oil and gas industry operating in both states.

Common Trucking Accident Types in Sabine County

Every 18-wheeler accident in Sabine County is unique, but we see certain patterns based on our local conditions:

Rollover Accidents on Curves
Our rural highways have many curves that catch truck drivers by surprise, especially when they’re traveling too fast or carrying unstable loads. Timber trucks are particularly susceptible to rollovers because their high center of gravity makes them less stable. We’ve handled cases where drivers took curves at excessive speeds, causing their trailers to tip and spill logs across multiple lanes.

Cargo Spill Accidents
Improperly secured cargo is a major hazard on Sabine County roads. We’ve seen cases involving:

  • Logs falling from timber trucks onto following vehicles
  • Agricultural products spilling onto roadways
  • Equipment coming loose from flatbed trailers
  • Hazardous materials spilling from tankers

These accidents often cause secondary collisions as other drivers swerve to avoid debris or lose control when encountering unexpected obstacles.

Fatigue-Related Accidents
Many truck drivers passing through Sabine County are on long hauls between major distribution hubs. The limited truck parking in our area forces drivers to park in unsafe locations or continue driving when they should be resting. We’ve seen numerous cases where fatigued drivers fell asleep at the wheel on our rural highways, causing devastating head-on collisions.

Blind Spot Accidents
The large blind spots on 18-wheelers create significant dangers on our two-lane highways. We frequently see accidents where truck drivers change lanes without seeing smaller vehicles in their “no-zones.” These accidents are particularly common on US 96 where passing maneuvers are frequent.

Underride Accidents
When passenger vehicles collide with the rear or side of trailers, they can slide underneath, often with catastrophic results. These accidents are especially deadly because the trailer can shear off the top of the smaller vehicle. We’ve seen cases where underride accidents occurred when trucks stopped suddenly on highways or made wide turns at intersections.

Tire Blowout Accidents
The extreme heat in East Texas summers, combined with the heavy loads carried by many trucks passing through Sabine County, creates ideal conditions for tire blowouts. When a steer tire blows out, drivers can lose control of their vehicles, often with devastating consequences.

Brake Failure Accidents
Our rolling terrain creates conditions where brake systems can overheat, especially on long descents. We’ve handled cases where brake failures on steep grades caused runaway trucks that crashed into other vehicles.

Wildlife Collisions
Deer and other wildlife are common on Sabine County roads, especially at dawn and dusk. When truck drivers swerve to avoid animals, they can lose control or cross into oncoming traffic. These accidents often involve multiple vehicles and catastrophic injuries.

The Physics of Trucking Accidents: Why They’re So Devastating

Understanding why 18-wheeler accidents cause such catastrophic injuries requires understanding the basic physics involved:

Weight Disparity

  • A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds
  • The average passenger car weighs about 4,000 pounds
  • The truck is 20 TIMES heavier than your car

Stopping Distance

  • At 65 mph, a fully loaded truck needs approximately 525 feet to stop
  • That’s nearly TWO football fields
  • A passenger car at the same speed needs about 300 feet to stop
  • This 40% longer stopping distance means trucks can’t avoid obstacles as quickly

Impact Force

  • Force = Mass × Acceleration
  • An 80,000-pound truck at 65 mph carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a car
  • This energy transfers to the smaller vehicle in a crash

Center of Gravity

  • Trucks have a much higher center of gravity than cars
  • This makes them more prone to rollovers, especially on curves
  • When a truck rolls over, it can crush multiple vehicles

Trailer Dynamics

  • Trailers don’t always follow the same path as the cab
  • This creates the “jackknife” effect where the trailer swings out
  • The swinging trailer can block multiple lanes of traffic

Underride Potential

  • Trailers are much higher off the ground than passenger vehicles
  • When a car collides with a trailer, it can slide underneath
  • This often results in the trailer shearing off the top of the car

These physical realities explain why trucking accidents in Sabine County so often result in catastrophic injuries or wrongful death. When you’re involved in a collision with an 18-wheeler, you’re not just dealing with a larger vehicle – you’re dealing with physics that make these accidents fundamentally different from car crashes.

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Sabine County Trucking Accidents

The injuries we see in Sabine County trucking accidents are among the most severe in all of personal injury law. These aren’t just broken bones or whiplash – they’re life-altering, permanent injuries that affect every aspect of your future.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when the brain is injured by sudden trauma, often from striking the inside of the skull during a collision. In trucking accidents, the extreme forces involved make TBI common.

Severity Levels:

Level Symptoms Long-Term Impact
Mild (Concussion) Brief loss of consciousness, confusion, headache, dizziness May recover fully, but some have lasting cognitive issues
Moderate Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits Significant recovery possible with rehabilitation, but permanent deficits likely
Severe Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment Lifelong disability requiring 24/7 care

Common TBI Symptoms:

  • Persistent headaches
  • Memory loss and confusion
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Mood changes and depression
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
  • Speech difficulties
  • Personality changes

Long-Term Consequences:

  • Permanent cognitive impairment
  • Inability to work or return to previous occupation
  • Need for lifelong care and supervision
  • Increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s
  • Depression and emotional disorders

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. The higher the injury on the spinal cord, the more body functions are affected.

Types of Paralysis:

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

Level of Injury Matters:

  • C1-C4 (High Cervical): May require ventilator for breathing, complete dependency
  • C5-C8 (Low Cervical): May retain some arm function, but legs paralyzed
  • Thoracic (T1-T12): Legs paralyzed, but upper body function preserved
  • Lumbar (L1-L5): Partial leg paralysis, may retain some function
  • Sacral (S1-S5): Minimal paralysis, may affect bowel/bladder control

Lifetime Care Costs:

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

These figures represent direct medical costs only – they don’t include lost wages, pain and suffering, or loss of quality of life.

Amputation

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

Types of Amputation:

  • Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the scene due to crash forces
  • Surgical Amputation: Limb so severely damaged it must be surgically removed

Common Causes in Trucking Accidents:

  • Crushing forces from truck impact
  • Entrapment requiring amputation for extraction
  • Severe burns requiring surgical removal
  • Infections from open wounds
  • Vascular damage that prevents blood flow

Ongoing Medical Needs:

  • Initial surgery and hospitalization
  • Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ per prosthetic)
  • Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime (every 3-5 years)
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation
  • Occupational therapy for daily living skills
  • Psychological counseling for trauma and body image issues

Impact on Life:

  • Permanent disability
  • Career limitations or total disability
  • Phantom limb pain (pain in the missing limb)
  • Body image and psychological trauma
  • Need for home modifications
  • Dependency on others for daily activities

Severe Burns

Burns occur in trucking accidents from fuel tank ruptures, hazmat cargo spills, electrical fires, friction burns from road contact, and chemical exposure.

Burn Classification:

Degree Depth Treatment Long-Term Impact
First Epidermis only Minor, heals without scarring Usually no long-term impact
Second Epidermis and dermis May scar, may need grafting Possible scarring and sensitivity
Third Full thickness (skin destroyed) Requires skin grafts Permanent scarring, multiple surgeries
Fourth Through skin to muscle/bone Multiple surgeries, may require amputation Severe disability, lifelong treatment

Common Causes in Trucking Accidents:

  • Fuel tank ruptures and fires
  • Hazmat cargo spills and ignition
  • Electrical fires from battery/wiring damage
  • Friction burns from road contact
  • Chemical burns from hazmat exposure

Long-Term Consequences:

  • Permanent scarring and disfigurement
  • Multiple reconstructive surgeries
  • Skin graft procedures
  • Chronic pain
  • Increased infection risk
  • Psychological trauma
  • Need for specialized burn care

Internal Organ Damage

Internal injuries are particularly dangerous because they may not show immediate symptoms. These injuries can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Common Internal Injuries:

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

Why Internal Injuries Are Dangerous:

  • May not show immediate symptoms
  • Internal bleeding can be life-threatening
  • Requires emergency surgery
  • Organ removal affects long-term health
  • Can lead to secondary infections

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents kill, surviving family members can pursue wrongful death claims. These cases are among the most heartbreaking we handle, but they’re also some of the most important for holding negligent trucking companies accountable.

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas:

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

Types of Wrongful Death Claims:

  • Wrongful Death Action: Compensation for survivors’ losses
  • Survival Action: Compensation for decedent’s pain/suffering before death

Damages Available in Texas Wrongful Death Cases:

  • Lost future income and employment benefits
  • Loss of consortium (spousal companionship and relationship)
  • Loss of parental guidance and nurturing (for surviving children)
  • Mental anguish and emotional distress (for surviving family)
  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Medical expenses incurred prior to death
  • Pain and suffering experienced by decedent before death
  • Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence, recklessness, or malice)

Texas Statute of Limitations: 2 years from date of death to file wrongful death lawsuit

The Trucking Industry’s Dirty Secrets: What They Don’t Want You to Know

Trucking companies and their insurers have sophisticated systems for minimizing claims. They know exactly what to do after an accident to protect their interests – not yours. Here are some of their dirty secrets:

The Rapid Response Team

Within hours of a serious accident, the trucking company’s rapid response team springs into action. Their goal isn’t to help you – it’s to protect the company. This team typically includes:

  • Insurance adjusters trained to minimize claims
  • Accident reconstruction experts who start building the company’s defense
  • Corporate lawyers who begin crafting legal strategies
  • Public relations specialists who manage media coverage
  • Safety managers who start “investigating” the accident

While you’re in the hospital dealing with injuries, they’re already working to limit their liability. That’s why you need your own team working for you immediately.

The Spoliation Game

Trucking companies know that evidence like black box data, ELD records, and maintenance logs can prove their negligence. Their first instinct is often to destroy or “lose” this evidence. We’ve seen cases where:

  • ECM data was “accidentally” overwritten
  • Dashcam footage was deleted
  • Maintenance records were “misplaced”
  • Drug test results were delayed until they came back clean
  • Driver qualification files were incomplete

This is why we send spoliation letters immediately – to put them on notice that destroying evidence will have serious legal consequences.

The Lowball Settlement Offer

The trucking company’s insurance adjuster will often contact you within days of the accident with a “quick settlement” offer. They’ll act friendly and concerned, but their goal is to pay you as little as possible before you understand the full extent of your injuries.

These early offers almost never cover:

  • Future medical expenses
  • Lost earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Long-term care needs
  • The full impact on your quality of life

We’ve seen cases where the initial offer was $25,000, but the case was ultimately worth over $2 million. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

The “Independent” Medical Exam

Insurance companies will often insist you submit to an “independent medical examination” (IME) with a doctor of their choosing. These exams are anything but independent. The doctors are hired and paid by the insurance company, and their job is to find reasons to minimize your injuries.

We’ve seen IME reports that claim:

  • Your injuries were pre-existing
  • You’re exaggerating your symptoms
  • You don’t need the treatment your doctors recommend
  • You can return to work much sooner than your doctors say

The Social Media Trap

Insurance companies will scour your social media accounts looking for anything they can use against you. They’ll take innocent photos out of context to argue:

  • You’re not really injured (if you post a photo smiling at a family event)
  • You’re more active than you claim (if you post about light activities)
  • Your injuries weren’t caused by the accident (if you mention old injuries)

We advise all our clients to stay off social media until their case is resolved.

The “You Were Partially at Fault” Defense

Even when their driver is clearly at fault, trucking companies will often try to shift blame to you. They’ll argue:

  • You were speeding
  • You didn’t brake in time
  • You were in their blind spot
  • You didn’t signal properly
  • You were distracted

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you’re found to be more than 50% at fault, you can’t recover anything. If you’re found to be 50% or less at fault, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. That’s why we conduct thorough investigations to prove the trucking company’s negligence.

The FMCSA Regulations That Trucking Companies Violate Every Day

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates every aspect of commercial trucking. These regulations exist to protect the public, but trucking companies routinely violate them to save time and money. When they do, people get hurt.

Part 390: General Applicability

This part defines who must comply with federal trucking regulations. It applies to:

  • All motor carriers operating commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce
  • All drivers of commercial motor vehicles
  • All vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) over 10,001 pounds
  • All vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver)
  • All vehicles transporting hazardous materials requiring placards

Key Violation: Operating without proper authority or insurance

Part 391: Driver Qualification

This part establishes who is qualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle. It requires:

  • Drivers must be at least 21 years old for interstate commerce
  • Drivers must be able to read and speak English sufficiently
  • Drivers must be physically qualified under § 391.41
  • Drivers must have a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL)
  • Drivers must have completed a road test or equivalent
  • Drivers must not be disqualified for violations or suspensions

Driver Qualification File Requirements:
Motor carriers must maintain a file for every driver containing:

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

Key Violations:

  • Hiring unqualified drivers
  • Failing to maintain complete driver qualification files
  • Hiring drivers with poor safety records
  • Allowing drivers to operate without valid medical certificates

Part 392: Driving Rules

This part establishes rules for the safe operation of commercial motor vehicles. Key requirements:

  • Drivers must not operate while ill or fatigued
  • Drivers must not use alcohol within 4 hours of going on duty
  • Drivers must not use alcohol or drugs while on duty
  • Drivers must not follow other vehicles too closely
  • Drivers must use seat belts
  • Drivers must not use hand-held mobile phones while driving
  • Drivers must not text while driving

Key Violations:

  • Distracted driving (cell phone use, texting)
  • Following too closely
  • Operating while fatigued
  • Operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Part 393: Parts and Accessories for Safe Operation

This part establishes equipment and cargo securement standards. Key requirements:

Cargo Securement:

  • Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent shifting or falling
  • Securement systems must withstand specific forces (0.8g forward, 0.5g rearward/lateral)
  • Working load limits must be sufficient for the cargo
  • Specific requirements by cargo type (logs, metal coils, machinery, etc.)

Brakes:

  • All commercial motor vehicles must have properly functioning brake systems
  • Air brake systems must meet specific requirements
  • Brake adjustment must be maintained within specifications

Lighting:

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

Key Violations:

  • Improper cargo securement
  • Brake system deficiencies
  • Lighting violations
  • Missing or defective safety equipment

Part 395: Hours of Service (HOS)

These are the most commonly violated regulations in trucking accidents. They exist to prevent driver fatigue, which causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes.

Property-Carrying Drivers (Most 18-Wheelers):

Rule Requirement Violation Consequence
11-Hour Driving Limit Cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty Fatigue-related accidents
14-Hour Duty Window Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty Driver exhaustion
30-Minute Break Must take 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving Impaired alertness
60/70-Hour Limit Cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days Cumulative fatigue
34-Hour Restart Can restart 60/70-hour clock with 34 consecutive hours off Inadequate recovery

Sleeper Berth Provision:
Drivers using sleeper berths may split their 10-hour off-duty period:

  • At least 7 consecutive hours in sleeper berth
  • Plus at least 2 consecutive hours off-duty (in berth or otherwise)
  • Neither period counts against 14-hour window

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Mandate:
Since December 18, 2017, most CMV drivers must use ELDs that:

  • Automatically record driving time
  • Synchronize with vehicle engine to record objective data
  • Cannot be altered after the fact (unlike paper logs)
  • Record GPS location, speed, engine hours

Key Violations:

  • Driving beyond 11-hour limit
  • Driving beyond 14-hour window
  • Failing to take required 30-minute breaks
  • Exceeding weekly limits
  • Falsifying log books or ELD records

Part 396: Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

This part requires systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of commercial motor vehicles.

Key Requirements:

  • Motor carriers must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all vehicles
  • Drivers must conduct pre-trip inspections and report defects
  • Drivers must prepare post-trip reports on vehicle condition
  • Vehicles must pass annual inspections
  • Records must be retained for 1 year

Key Violations:

  • Failing to conduct required inspections
  • Ignoring reported defects
  • Deferred maintenance to save costs
  • Failing to maintain proper records

The Evidence That Wins Trucking Cases in Sabine County

Winning your trucking accident case requires proving the trucking company’s negligence. This means gathering and presenting the right evidence. At Attorney911, we know exactly what evidence to pursue and how to preserve it before it disappears.

Electronic Data: The Truck’s Black Box

Commercial trucks have sophisticated electronic systems that record critical data about the vehicle’s operation. This data is often the key to proving the trucking company’s negligence.

Types of Electronic Data:

System What It Records Why It Matters
ECM (Engine Control Module) Engine performance, speed, throttle, RPM, cruise control, fault codes Proves speeding, brake application, engine problems
EDR (Event Data Recorder) Pre-crash data triggered by sudden deceleration or airbag deployment Shows what happened in the moments before the crash
ELD (Electronic Logging Device) Driver hours, duty status, GPS location, driving time Proves hours of service violations and fatigue
Telematics Real-time GPS tracking, speed, route, driver behavior Shows driver behavior patterns and route compliance
Dashcam Video of road ahead, some record cab interior Provides visual evidence of driver behavior

Critical Data Points We Obtain:

  • Speed before and during the crash (proves speeding)
  • Brake application timing (shows if driver reacted appropriately)
  • Throttle position (reveals if driver was accelerating or coasting)
  • Following distance (calculated from speed and deceleration data)
  • Hours of service (proves fatigue and HOS violations)
  • GPS location (confirms route and timing)
  • Fault codes (may reveal known mechanical issues driver ignored)

Why This Data Wins Cases:
ECM/ELD data is objective and tamper-resistant. It directly contradicts driver claims of “I wasn’t speeding” or “I hit my brakes immediately.” This data has led to multi-million dollar verdicts in trucking cases across Texas.

Driver Records: Proving Negligent Hiring

Trucking companies are responsible for hiring qualified drivers. When they fail to do proper background checks or ignore red flags, they can be held liable for negligent hiring.

Records We Obtain:

  • Driver Qualification File: Complete employment file showing hiring process
  • Employment Application: Reveals inconsistencies or omissions
  • Motor Vehicle Record: Shows driving history and violations
  • Previous Employer Inquiries: Reveals past safety issues or terminations
  • Medical Certification: Shows whether driver was physically qualified
  • Drug and Alcohol Test Results: Reveals substance abuse issues
  • Training Records: Shows whether driver received proper safety training
  • Performance Reviews: Reveals disciplinary issues or safety concerns

Common Negligent Hiring Violations:

  • Hiring drivers with suspended or revoked CDLs
  • Hiring drivers with multiple accidents or violations
  • Failing to verify previous employment
  • Hiring drivers with known substance abuse issues
  • Failing to conduct proper background checks
  • Ignoring red flags in the driver’s history

Maintenance Records: Proving Negligent Maintenance

Trucking companies are required to maintain their vehicles in safe operating condition. When they fail to do so, they can be held liable for negligent maintenance.

Records We Obtain:

  • Maintenance Work Orders: Show what repairs were performed
  • Inspection Reports: Show what defects were identified
  • Parts Purchase Records: Show what parts were used in repairs
  • Mechanic Certifications: Show who performed the work
  • Out-of-Service Orders: Show when vehicles were deemed unsafe
  • Annual Inspection Reports: Show compliance with annual requirements
  • Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs): Show pre-trip and post-trip inspections

Common Maintenance Violations:

  • Failing to repair known defects
  • Using substandard or incorrect parts
  • Deferring maintenance to save costs
  • Failing to conduct required inspections
  • Ignoring driver reports of problems
  • Failing to maintain proper records

Cargo Records: Proving Improper Loading

Improperly secured cargo causes rollovers, jackknifes, and spills that lead to catastrophic accidents. We investigate whether the cargo was properly loaded and secured.

Records We Obtain:

  • Bill of Lading: Shows what cargo was being transported
  • Cargo Manifest: Shows how cargo was described
  • Loading Instructions: Shows how cargo was supposed to be loaded
  • Loading Photos: Shows how cargo was actually loaded
  • Securement Equipment Records: Shows what tiedowns were used
  • Weight Certifications: Shows whether vehicle was overloaded

Common Cargo Securement Violations:

  • Inadequate number of tiedowns
  • Insufficient working load limits
  • Improper load distribution
  • Failure to use blocking or bracing
  • Failure to re-inspect cargo during trip
  • Overloading beyond vehicle capacity

Other Critical Evidence

Police Reports:

  • Official documentation of the accident
  • Officer’s determination of fault
  • Citations issued
  • Witness statements
  • Diagram of the accident scene

Witness Statements:

  • Independent accounts of what happened
  • Corroboration of your version of events
  • Details the police may have missed

Accident Scene Photos:

  • Vehicle damage
  • Road conditions
  • Skid marks
  • Traffic signals
  • Weather conditions

Medical Records:

  • Documentation of your injuries
  • Treatment received
  • Prognosis and future care needs
  • Link between injuries and the accident

Expert Analysis:

  • Accident Reconstruction: Determines how the accident occurred
  • Medical Experts: Establish causation and future care needs
  • Vocational Experts: Calculate lost earning capacity
  • Economic Experts: Determine present value of all damages
  • Life Care Planners: Develop comprehensive care plans
  • FMCSA Experts: Identify regulation violations

Who’s Really Responsible? The Web of Liability in Trucking Accidents

One of the most important differences between trucking accidents and regular car crashes is that multiple parties can be held liable. Unlike a simple car accident 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.

At Attorney911, we investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery. The more parties we can hold accountable, the more insurance coverage becomes available to compensate you for your injuries.

The Truck Driver

The driver who caused the accident is often the most obvious defendant. Drivers can be held personally liable for their negligent conduct.

Common Driver Negligence:

  • 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
  • Failure to yield, improper lane changes, running red lights
  • Inadequate training or experience

Evidence We Pursue:

  • Driver’s driving record and history
  • ELD data showing hours of service
  • Drug and alcohol test results
  • Cell phone records
  • Previous accident history
  • Training records

The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

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

Bases for Trucking Company Liability:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

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

Direct Negligence:

  • 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 or ELD compliance
  • Negligent Maintenance: Failed to maintain vehicle in safe condition
  • Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations

Evidence We Pursue:

  • Driver Qualification File (or lack thereof)
  • Hiring policies and background check procedures
  • Training records and curricula
  • Supervision and monitoring practices
  • Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
  • Safety culture documentation
  • Previous accident/violation history
  • CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores

Insurance Implications:
Trucking companies carry MUCH higher insurance limits than individual drivers – often $750,000 to $5,000,000 or more. This makes them the primary target for recovery in catastrophic injury cases.

The Cargo Owner / Shipper

The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable if they contributed to the accident.

Bases for Shipper Liability:

  • Provided improper loading instructions
  • Failed to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
  • Required overweight loading
  • Pressured carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
  • Misrepresented cargo weight or characteristics

Evidence We Pursue:

  • Shipping contracts and bills of lading
  • Loading instructions provided
  • Hazmat disclosure documentation
  • Weight certification records

The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo onto trucks may be liable for improper securement.

Bases for Loading Company Liability:

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

Evidence We Pursue:

  • Loading company securement procedures
  • Loader training records
  • Securement equipment used
  • Weight distribution documentation

The Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

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

Bases for Manufacturer Liability:

  • 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)

Evidence We Pursue:

  • Recall notices and technical service bulletins
  • Similar defect complaints (NHTSA database)
  • Design specifications and testing records
  • Component failure analysis

The Parts Manufacturer

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

Bases for Parts Liability:

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

Evidence We Pursue:

  • Failed component for expert analysis
  • Recall history for specific parts
  • Similar failure patterns
  • Manufacturing and quality control records

The Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets may be liable for negligent repairs.

Bases for Maintenance Company Liability:

  • 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

Evidence We Pursue:

  • Maintenance work orders
  • Mechanic qualifications and training
  • Parts used in repairs
  • Inspection reports and recommendations

The Freight Broker

Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for negligent carrier selection.

Bases for Broker Liability:

  • 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

Evidence We Pursue:

  • Broker-carrier agreements
  • Carrier selection criteria
  • Carrier safety record at time of selection
  • Broker’s due diligence procedures

The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

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

Bases for Owner Liability:

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

Evidence We Pursue:

  • Lease agreements
  • Maintenance responsibility allocations
  • Owner’s knowledge of driver history

Government Entities

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

Bases for Government Liability:

  • 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

Special Considerations:

  • Sovereign immunity limits government liability
  • Strict notice requirements and short deadlines
  • Must prove actual notice of dangerous condition in many cases

Evidence We Pursue:

  • Road design specifications
  • Maintenance records
  • Prior accident history at location
  • Citizen complaints about condition

How We Investigate Your Sabine County Trucking Accident

At Attorney911, we don’t just handle trucking accident cases – we specialize in them. Our investigation process is designed to uncover every piece of evidence that proves the trucking company’s negligence and maximizes your recovery.

Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)

Send Spoliation Letters
Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we send formal legal notices to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence related to the accident. This includes:

  • ECM/Black box data
  • ELD records
  • Maintenance records
  • Driver qualification files
  • Dispatch records
  • Drug and alcohol test results
  • Cell phone records
  • Dashcam footage
  • The physical truck and trailer

Sending these letters immediately puts the defendants on notice that destroying evidence will have serious legal consequences.

Deploy Accident Reconstruction Expert
We have relationships with top accident reconstruction experts who can be on the scene within hours if necessary. They document:

  • Skid marks
  • Vehicle positions
  • Road conditions
  • Weather conditions
  • Any other physical evidence

Obtain Police Crash Report
We obtain the official police report as soon as it’s available. This document contains:

  • Officer’s determination of fault
  • Citations issued
  • Witness statements
  • Diagram of the accident scene

Photograph Client Injuries
We document your injuries with medical photography to show the full extent of your physical trauma.

Photograph All Vehicles
We photograph all vehicles involved in the accident before they’re repaired or scrapped. This preserves evidence of the damage and can help reconstruct how the accident occurred.

Identify All Potentially Liable Parties
We begin identifying every possible defendant who may share responsibility for the accident. This includes:

  • The truck driver
  • The trucking company
  • The cargo owner
  • The loading company
  • Maintenance providers
  • Manufacturers
  • Freight brokers
  • Government entities

Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

Subpoena ECM/Black Box Data
We demand immediate download of all electronic data from the truck’s systems. This data shows:

  • Speed before and during the crash
  • Brake application timing
  • Throttle position
  • Following distance
  • Hours of service compliance
  • GPS location history

Request Complete Driver Qualification File
We subpoena the trucking company’s complete driver qualification file, which must contain:

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

Obtain Driver’s Paper Log Books
Even though ELDs are now required, some drivers still maintain paper logs as backup. We obtain these to check for inconsistencies.

Request All Truck Maintenance Records
We subpoena complete maintenance and repair records for the truck and trailer, including:

  • Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
  • Annual inspection reports
  • Repair work orders
  • Parts purchase records
  • Mechanic certifications

Obtain Carrier’s CSA Safety Scores
We obtain the trucking company’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) scores, which show:

  • Their safety rating
  • Inspection history
  • Out-of-service rates
  • Crash history
  • Pattern of violations

Order Driver’s Complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
We obtain the driver’s complete driving record from all states where they’ve been licensed. This reveals:

  • Traffic violations
  • Previous accidents
  • License suspensions
  • Pattern of unsafe driving

Subpoena Driver’s Cell Phone Records
We obtain the driver’s cell phone records to prove distracted driving. This includes:

  • Call logs
  • Text message records
  • Data usage
  • GPS location data

Obtain Dispatch Records
We subpoena the trucking company’s dispatch records to show:

  • Trip assignments
  • Delivery schedules
  • Communications with the driver
  • Any pressure to meet unrealistic deadlines

Phase 3: Expert Analysis

Accident Reconstruction
Our accident reconstruction experts analyze all the evidence to determine:

  • How the accident occurred
  • Who was at fault
  • What factors contributed to the crash
  • What could have been done to prevent it

Medical Causation Analysis
Medical experts review your records to:

  • Establish the link between the accident and your injuries
  • Determine the extent of your injuries
  • Project your future medical needs
  • Calculate the cost of future care

Vocational Assessment
Vocational experts evaluate:

  • Your ability to return to work
  • Your reduced earning capacity
  • The impact of your injuries on your career
  • Potential retraining needs

Economic Damage Calculation
Economic experts calculate:

  • Past medical expenses
  • Future medical expenses
  • Past lost wages
  • Future lost earning capacity
  • Other economic damages

Life Care Planning
Life care planners develop comprehensive plans for:

  • Future medical care
  • Rehabilitation needs
  • Home modifications
  • Assistive devices
  • Other long-term care needs

FMCSA Regulation Compliance Review
Our FMCSA experts review all the evidence to identify:

  • Hours of service violations
  • Driver qualification violations
  • Maintenance violations
  • Cargo securement violations
  • Other regulatory violations

Phase 4: Litigation Strategy

File Lawsuit Before Statute of Limitations Expires
In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. We file your lawsuit well before this deadline to preserve your rights.

Pursue Aggressive Discovery
We use the legal process to obtain all relevant evidence from the defendants, including:

  • Interrogatories (written questions)
  • Requests for production of documents
  • Requests for admissions
  • Subpoenas to third parties

Depose Key Witnesses
We take depositions (sworn testimony) from:

  • The truck driver
  • The trucking company’s safety manager
  • The trucking company’s dispatcher
  • Maintenance personnel
  • Loading company employees
  • Any other relevant witnesses

Build Case for Trial
While we always try to negotiate a fair settlement, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This includes:

  • Developing persuasive legal arguments
  • Preparing expert witnesses
  • Creating demonstrative exhibits
  • Practicing opening statements and closing arguments

Negotiate from Position of Strength
Our trial preparation gives us leverage in settlement negotiations. Insurance companies know we’re prepared to take your case to verdict if they don’t offer fair compensation.

What Your Sabine County Trucking Accident Case Is Worth

One of the first questions our clients ask is, “What is my case worth?” The answer depends on many factors, but trucking accident cases typically have much higher values than regular car accidents because:

  1. The injuries are usually more severe
  2. Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits
  3. Multiple parties can be held liable
  4. Regulatory violations often prove negligence

Factors That Determine Case Value

Severity of Injuries
The more severe your injuries, the higher your case value. Catastrophic injuries like TBI, spinal cord damage, amputations, and wrongful death result in the highest settlements and verdicts.

Medical Expenses
Your case value includes:

  • Past medical expenses
  • Future medical expenses
  • Rehabilitation costs
  • Home modification costs
  • Assistive device costs

Lost Income and Earning Capacity
Your case value includes:

  • Wages lost due to time off work
  • Future lost wages if you can’t return to work
  • Reduced earning capacity if you can work but earn less

Pain and Suffering
This non-economic damage compensates you for:

  • Physical pain from your injuries
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Disfigurement
  • Physical impairment

Degree of Defendant’s Negligence
The more egregious the trucking company’s negligence, the higher your case value. Cases involving:

  • Hours of service violations
  • Falsified log books
  • Negligent hiring
  • Negligent maintenance
  • Pattern of safety violations
  • Evidence destruction

…can result in punitive damages that significantly increase case value.

Available Insurance Coverage
Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than regular drivers:

  • Minimum $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
  • $1,000,000+ for oil, large equipment, or hazardous materials
  • $5,000,000 for hazardous materials or passengers

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more in coverage. This higher coverage allows for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.

Documented Settlement and Verdict Ranges

Based on our experience handling Texas trucking accident cases, here are typical ranges:

Injury Type Settlement/Verdict Range Notes
Wrongful Death $1,000,000 – $20,000,000+ Depends on age, earning capacity, dependents
Traumatic Brain Injury (Severe) $1,500,000 – $10,000,000+ Includes cognitive impairment, permanent disability
Spinal Cord Injury (Quadriplegia) $3,000,000 – $25,000,000+ Lifetime care costs drive high values
Spinal Cord Injury (Paraplegia) $1,000,000 – $10,000,000+ Depends on level of injury and care needs
Amputation $1,000,000 – $8,000,000+ Includes prosthetics, rehabilitation, disability
Severe Burns $500,000 – $5,000,000+ Depends on degree of burns and scarring
Multiple Fractures (Requiring Surgery) $250,000 – $2,000,000 Depends on long-term impact on mobility
Herniated Disc (Surgery Required) $100,000 – $1,000,000 Depends on number of discs and recovery
Soft Tissue Injuries $15,000 – $100,000 Whiplash, sprains, strains

Nuclear Verdicts: The Trend That’s Changing Trucking Litigation

In recent years, juries have been awarding massive verdicts against trucking companies – what the industry calls “nuclear verdicts.” These verdicts often exceed $10 million and sometimes reach into the hundreds of millions.

Recent Nuclear Verdicts in Trucking Cases:

Amount Year Location Case Details
$1 Billion 2021 Florida 18-year-old killed; $100M compensatory + $900M punitive; gross negligence in hiring
$730 Million 2021 Texas Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman; gross negligence
$462 Million 2024 Missouri Underride accident; two men decapitated
$160 Million 2024 Alabama Rollover left driver quadriplegic; $75M compensatory + $75M punitive
$150 Million 2022 Texas Werner settlement; two children killed on I-30
$141.5 Million 2023 Florida Defunct carrier case; nuclear verdict
$90 Million 2023 Houston, TX Truck driver burned in explosion
$37.5 Million 2024 Texas Trucking verdict; catastrophic injuries

Why Nuclear Verdicts Happen:
Juries award massive verdicts when they find:

  • The trucking company knowingly hired dangerous drivers
  • The company ignored safety violations for profit
  • Evidence was destroyed (spoliation)
  • Hours-of-service logs were falsified
  • There was a pattern of similar violations
  • The company had a corporate culture that prioritized profit over safety
  • There was egregious disregard for human life

What This Means for Your Case:
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 our position in settlement negotiations.

The Insurance Battle: How We Fight for Maximum Compensation

Trucking companies and their insurers have sophisticated systems for minimizing claims. They know exactly what to do after an accident to protect their interests – not yours. At Attorney911, we know their tactics because our team includes a former insurance defense attorney. This insider knowledge gives us an unfair advantage when fighting for your rights.

Common Insurance Company Tactics

The Quick Lowball Offer
Within days of the accident, the insurance adjuster will contact you with a “quick settlement” offer. They’ll act friendly and concerned, but their goal is to pay you as little as possible before you understand the full extent of your injuries.

Why It’s Dangerous:

  • The offer won’t cover future medical expenses
  • It won’t account for lost earning capacity
  • It won’t compensate you for pain and suffering
  • It won’t cover long-term care needs
  • Once you accept, you can’t ask for more later

The “Independent” Medical Exam
Insurance companies will insist you submit to an “independent medical examination” (IME) with a doctor of their choosing. These exams are anything but independent.

What Really Happens:

  • The doctor is hired and paid by the insurance company
  • Their job is to find reasons to minimize your injuries
  • They’ll claim your injuries were pre-existing
  • They’ll argue you’re exaggerating your symptoms
  • They’ll say you don’t need the treatment your doctors recommend
  • They’ll claim you can return to work much sooner than your doctors say

The Social Media Trap
Insurance companies will scour your social media accounts looking for anything they can use against you.

How They Use It:

  • Innocent photos of you smiling at a family event become “proof” you’re not really injured
  • Posts about light activities become “proof” you’re more active than you claim
  • Mentions of old injuries become “proof” your current injuries weren’t caused by the accident

The “You Were Partially at Fault” Defense
Even when their driver is clearly at fault, trucking companies will try to shift blame to you.

Common Arguments:

  • You were speeding
  • You didn’t brake in time
  • You were in their blind spot
  • You didn’t signal properly
  • You were distracted

Texas Comparative Negligence Rule:

  • If you’re found to be more than 50% at fault, you can’t recover anything
  • If you’re found to be 50% or less at fault, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault

The Delay Game
Insurance companies will drag out the claims process, hoping you’ll get frustrated and accept a low offer.

Why They Do It:

  • Medical bills pile up
  • Financial pressure increases
  • You become more desperate for any settlement
  • Witness memories fade
  • Evidence becomes harder to obtain

How We Fight Back

Never Accept the First Offer
We know the first offer is always a lowball. We never accept it without thorough evaluation of your damages.

Demand Full Disclosure
We demand complete disclosure of all evidence, including:

  • ECM/Black box data
  • ELD records
  • Maintenance records
  • Driver qualification files
  • Dispatch records
  • Cell phone records

Counter the IME with Your Own Experts
We have our own medical experts review your records and counter the insurance company’s IME report.

Protect Your Social Media
We advise all our clients to stay off social media until their case is resolved. We also monitor for any attempts to access your accounts improperly.

Prove Their Negligence
We conduct thorough investigations to prove the trucking company’s negligence, including:

  • Hours of service violations
  • Negligent hiring
  • Negligent training
  • Negligent maintenance
  • Negligent supervision
  • Pattern of safety violations

Prepare for Trial
We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This gives us leverage in settlement negotiations because insurance companies know we’re prepared to take your case to verdict if they don’t offer fair compensation.

Use Our Insider Knowledge
Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate claims. He knows their tactics and how to counter them.

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

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Sabine County, what you do in the hours and days after the crash can make or break your case. Follow these steps to protect your rights and preserve critical evidence.

At the Scene

Call 911 Immediately
Report the accident and request police and medical assistance. Even if you think your injuries are minor, get checked out by paramedics. Some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately.

Seek Medical Attention
If you’re injured, go to the hospital immediately. If you’re not transported by ambulance, go to the nearest emergency room or urgent care center as soon as possible. Delaying treatment gives insurance companies ammunition to argue your injuries weren’t caused by the accident.

Document the Scene
If you’re able, take photos and videos of:

  • All vehicles involved in the accident
  • Vehicle damage (inside and out)
  • Skid marks and debris
  • Road conditions
  • Weather conditions
  • Traffic signals and signs
  • Your injuries
  • The truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company information

Get Witness Information
Collect names, phone numbers, and addresses of any witnesses. Independent witness testimony can be crucial in proving what happened.

Get the Truck Driver’s Information
Obtain:

  • Driver’s name and contact information
  • CDL number
  • Trucking company name and contact information
  • Insurance information
  • Truck and trailer license plate numbers
  • DOT number (on the truck door)

Don’t Admit Fault
Don’t apologize or say anything that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Even saying “I’m sorry” can be used against you later.

Don’t Give Statements to Insurance Companies
The trucking company’s insurance adjuster may contact you quickly. Do not give any recorded statements without consulting an attorney first. Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim.

In the Days After the Accident

Follow Up with Medical Treatment
Follow your doctor’s treatment plan exactly. Go to all follow-up appointments and physical therapy sessions. Failing to follow treatment recommendations gives insurance companies ammunition to argue you’re not really injured.

Document Everything
Keep detailed records of:

  • Medical appointments
  • Treatments received
  • Medications prescribed
  • Time missed from work
  • How your injuries affect your daily life
  • Pain levels and symptoms

Preserve Evidence
Save:

  • All medical records and bills
  • Police report
  • Photos and videos from the scene
  • Clothing and personal items damaged in the accident
  • Any other physical evidence

Don’t Repair Your Vehicle
Don’t repair or dispose of your vehicle until it’s been inspected by an expert. Your vehicle is critical evidence in proving how the accident occurred.

Stay Off Social Media
Don’t post anything about the accident or your injuries on social media. Insurance companies will use your posts against you.

Contact an 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney Immediately
The sooner you contact an attorney, the better. Critical evidence can disappear quickly. At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within hours to preserve evidence before it’s destroyed.

What NOT to Do

Don’t Accept the First Settlement Offer
Insurance companies will try to settle quickly for far less than your case is worth. Never accept any settlement without consulting an attorney first.

Don’t Sign Anything Without Legal Review
Insurance companies may try to get you to sign releases or other documents that limit your rights. Never sign anything without having it reviewed by an attorney.

Don’t Talk to the Trucking Company or Their Insurer
Anything you say to the trucking company or their insurance adjuster can be used against you. Let your attorney handle all communications.

Don’t Delay Seeking Medical Treatment
Delaying treatment gives insurance companies ammunition to argue your injuries weren’t caused by the accident or aren’t as serious as you claim.

Don’t Post About Your Accident on Social Media
Insurance companies will scour your social media accounts looking for anything they can use to minimize your claim.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Sabine County Trucking Accident Case

Not all personal injury attorneys are created equal. When you’re facing catastrophic injuries from an 18-wheeler accident, you need a specialist – not a generalist. At Attorney911, we don’t just handle trucking accident cases – we specialize in them. Here’s why we’re the right choice for your Sabine County case:

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He has:

  • Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for trucking accident victims
  • Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
  • Experience litigating against some of the largest trucking companies in America
  • A track record of success in complex trucking cases

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers try to minimize claims. He spent years working for the other side, so he knows:

  • How insurance adjusters are trained to lowball victims
  • What makes them settle for more
  • How they evaluate claims
  • What evidence they look for
  • How to counter their tactics

This insider knowledge gives us an unfair advantage when fighting for your rights.

Proven Track Record of Results

We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims across Texas, 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

Our results speak for themselves. We have the experience and resources to handle even the most complex trucking cases.

Federal Court Experience

Many trucking cases involve interstate commerce and can be filed in federal court. Our federal court admission means we can handle these cases wherever they need to be filed.

Specialized Trucking Accident Knowledge

We understand the unique aspects of trucking cases:

  • FMCSA regulations and how to prove violations
  • Electronic data from trucks and how to obtain it
  • The web of liability in trucking accidents
  • How to investigate and prove negligent hiring, training, and supervision
  • The tactics trucking companies use to minimize claims

Aggressive Representation

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.

Personal Attention

Unlike large “billboard” firms that treat you like a case number, we treat you like family. You’ll have direct access to your attorney, and we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.

Contingency Fee Representation

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.

Bilingual Services

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español.

Local Knowledge of Sabine County

We understand Sabine County’s unique trucking corridors, rural highways, and local conditions. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.

Your Next Steps: Protecting Your Rights After a Sabine County Trucking Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Sabine County, time is of the essence. Critical evidence is disappearing every hour. Here’s what you need to do right now:

Step 1: Call Attorney911 Immediately

Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer calls immediately, and we’ll start working on your case right away. The sooner you call, the sooner we can:

  • Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
  • Begin our investigation
  • Protect your rights

Step 2: Get a Free Case Evaluation

We’ll evaluate your case at no cost to you. During your free consultation, we’ll:

  • Review the facts of your accident
  • Explain your legal rights
  • Discuss your options
  • Answer all your questions

Step 3: Let Us Handle Everything

Once you hire us, we’ll take care of everything:

  • Deal with the insurance companies
  • Gather and preserve evidence
  • Handle all legal paperwork
  • Negotiate with the defendants
  • Prepare your case for trial if necessary

You focus on your recovery while we focus on your case.

Step 4: Receive Maximum Compensation

We’ll fight for the maximum compensation you deserve for:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Future care needs
  • Any other damages

We don’t settle for less than you deserve.

The Attorney911 Promise

At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through. We’ve helped hundreds of Sabine County families recover from catastrophic trucking accidents. We know the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take.

When you hire us, you’re not just getting a lawyer – you’re getting a team of advocates who will fight for your rights. We promise:

We’ll treat you like family – Because that’s what you are to us.

We’ll fight for every dollar you deserve – We won’t settle for less than maximum compensation.

We’ll keep you informed every step of the way – 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 charge you anything unless we win – You pay nothing upfront, and nothing unless we recover for you.

Don’t Wait – Call Now

Every hour you wait, evidence in your case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage can be deleted. Witness memories can fade. The trucking company’s rapid response team is already working to protect their interests – not yours.

Don’t let them get away with it. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free consultation. We’re available 24/7, and we’ll start working on your case immediately.

You didn’t ask for this. You didn’t deserve this. But now you have to fight for what you’re entitled to. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. Your future depends on it.

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