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Shelby County 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys: Attorney911 Delivers 25+ Years of Courtroom-Tested Trucking Litigation, Led by Ralph Manginello – Multi-Million Dollar Verdict Veteran, Former Insurance Defense Attorney Lupe Peña Exposing Their Denial Tactics, FMCSA 49 CFR Masters Specializing in Hours of Service Violations, Black Box Data Extraction, and Jackknife, Rollover, Underride, Brake Failure, and Cargo Spill Crashes – Catastrophic Injury Experts for TBI, Spinal Cord Damage, Amputations, and Wrongful Death – Federal Court Admitted, $50+ Million Recovered for Texas Families, Free 24/7 Consultation, No Fee Unless We Win, Same-Day Evidence Preservation, Hablamos Español, 1-888-ATTY-911 – The Firm Shelby County Trucking Crash Victims Trust to Fight Back Against Negligent Carriers and Secure Maximum Compensation

February 8, 2026 31 min read
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18-Wheeler Accidents in Shelby County: Your Guide to Justice and Recovery

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

Shelby County’s highways and rural roads see significant truck traffic from East Texas’s timber industry, agricultural shipments, and cross-country freight moving along the I-69 corridor. When these massive vehicles are involved in accidents, the results are often catastrophic. Our team has the experience and local knowledge to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why Shelby County 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different

Shelby County’s unique geography and economy create specific trucking accident risks:

  • Timber Industry Traffic: The county’s extensive pine and hardwood forests generate heavy logging truck traffic, particularly on rural roads and State Highway 87. These trucks often carry oversized, irregular loads that require special securement.

  • Agricultural Shipments: Local farms produce poultry, cattle, and crops that require refrigerated and specialized transport. Agricultural trucking peaks during harvest seasons, increasing traffic on county roads.

  • I-69 Corridor: This major north-south highway connects the Gulf Coast to the Midwest, carrying significant commercial freight through Shelby County. The mix of local and long-haul trucking creates unique challenges.

  • Rural Road Conditions: Many county roads lack proper signage, lighting, and shoulders, making them particularly dangerous for large trucks and passenger vehicles alike.

  • Weight Station Compliance: Trucks traveling through Shelby County must comply with weight restrictions and inspection requirements, but some carriers cut corners to save time.

Our team understands these local factors and how they contribute to trucking accidents. We know the roads, the industries, and the courts that serve Shelby County.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Shelby County

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Truck drivers in Shelby County often face pressure to meet tight delivery deadlines. Many work for carriers based hundreds of miles away but pass through our county regularly. This pressure leads to:

  • Violating the 11-hour driving limit (49 CFR § 395.3)
  • Exceeding the 14-hour on-duty window (49 CFR § 395.3)
  • Skipping required 30-minute breaks (49 CFR § 395.3)
  • Falsifying ELD records to hide violations

Fatigued driving is particularly dangerous on Shelby County’s rural roads, where drivers may not encounter rest areas or truck stops for long stretches.

Improper Cargo Securement

Shelby County’s economy relies on specialized cargo that requires careful loading:

  • Timber loads that can shift or fall if not properly chained
  • Livestock transport that requires specific ventilation and containment
  • Refrigerated agricultural products that must maintain temperature
  • Oversized equipment for local industries

When cargo isn’t properly secured (violating 49 CFR § 393.100-136), it can shift during transit, causing rollovers or spills that create multi-vehicle accidents.

Brake Failures on Rural Roads

Shelby County’s terrain includes rolling hills and rural roads with steep grades. Trucks traveling these routes must have properly maintained brake systems to handle the demands. Common brake-related violations include:

  • Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced (49 CFR § 393.48)
  • Improper brake adjustment (pushrod travel violations)
  • Air brake system leaks that reduce stopping power
  • Failure to conduct pre-trip brake inspections (49 CFR § 396.13)

Brake failures are especially dangerous on rural roads where emergency stopping distances are longer and help may be far away.

Tire Blowouts on Long Hauls

Trucks traveling through Shelby County often come from distant locations, and their tires may not be properly maintained for our road conditions. Common tire-related violations include:

  • Underinflated tires that overheat and fail
  • Worn tires below minimum tread depth (4/32″ on steer tires, 2/32″ others)
  • Mismatched tires on dual wheels
  • Failure to inspect tires before trips (49 CFR § 396.13)

Tire blowouts can cause the driver to lose control, leading to jackknife accidents or rollovers that affect multiple vehicles.

Distracted Driving on Rural Highways

Long stretches of rural highway can lead to driver complacency and distraction. Common violations include:

  • Mobile phone use while driving (49 CFR § 392.82)
  • Texting while driving (49 CFR § 392.80)
  • Using dispatch devices while in motion
  • Eating or drinking while driving

Distracted driving is particularly dangerous on rural roads where traffic is sparse but speeds are high.

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents Common in Shelby County

Jackknife Accidents on Rural Roads

Jackknife accidents occur when a truck’s trailer swings out to the side, forming an angle with the cab. In Shelby County, these often happen:

  • On sharp curves of rural roads
  • During sudden braking on wet or gravel surfaces
  • When empty trailers are more prone to swing
  • On steep grades where braking is required

Jackknife accidents frequently block multiple lanes, creating hazards for oncoming traffic.

Underride Collisions on County Highways

Underride accidents occur when a passenger vehicle slides under the trailer of an 18-wheeler. In Shelby County, these are particularly dangerous because:

  • Many rural roads lack proper lighting at night
  • Some trucks may not have proper underride guards
  • Local drivers may not be accustomed to sharing roads with large trucks

Underride accidents often result in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries.

Rollover Accidents on Farm-to-Market Roads

Rollover accidents occur when a truck tips onto its side or roof. In Shelby County, these often happen:

  • On sharp turns of farm-to-market roads
  • When top-heavy loads (like timber or agricultural equipment) shift
  • On soft shoulders or uneven road surfaces
  • During sudden maneuvers to avoid wildlife

Rollover accidents can spill cargo onto the roadway, creating hazards for other vehicles.

Rear-End Collisions on I-69

Rear-end collisions occur when a truck strikes the back of another vehicle. On I-69 through Shelby County, these often happen:

  • In sudden traffic slowdowns that truck drivers don’t anticipate
  • When trucks follow too closely (violating 49 CFR § 392.11)
  • When brake failures prevent trucks from stopping in time
  • When fatigued drivers fail to notice stopped traffic

Due to the size and weight disparity, these accidents often cause severe injuries to occupants of the smaller vehicle.

Wide Turn Accidents in Small Towns

Wide turn accidents occur when trucks swing wide to make right turns, creating gaps that other vehicles enter. In Shelby County’s small towns:

  • Trucks must navigate tight intersections
  • Drivers may not properly signal their turns
  • Local drivers may not understand truck turning patterns

These accidents often crush vehicles between the truck and the curb.

Who Is Liable for Your Shelby County 18-Wheeler Accident?

In trucking accident cases, multiple parties may share liability. Our investigation will identify all responsible parties to maximize your recovery.

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

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

The Trucking Company

The motor carrier may be liable through:

  • Vicarious liability for the driver’s actions
  • Negligent hiring of unqualified drivers
  • Negligent training on safety procedures
  • Negligent supervision of driver performance
  • Negligent maintenance of vehicles
  • Pressure to violate hours of service rules

Many trucking companies serving Shelby County are based in other states, but they can still be held accountable for accidents that occur here.

Cargo Owners and Shippers

The companies that own or ship the cargo may be liable for:

  • Providing improper loading instructions
  • Failing to disclose hazardous cargo
  • Requiring overweight loads
  • Pressuring carriers to meet unrealistic deadlines

Shelby County’s agricultural and timber industries often involve local shippers who may share responsibility.

Loading Companies

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

  • Improper cargo securement (violating 49 CFR § 393.100-136)
  • Unbalanced load distribution
  • Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
  • Failure to use proper blocking and bracing

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for:

  • Defective brake systems
  • Defective tires
  • Defective steering components
  • Defective lighting systems
  • Defective underride guards

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers may be liable for:

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

Freight Brokers

Freight brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

  • Negligent selection of unsafe carriers
  • Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
  • Failure to check carrier safety records

Government Entities

In some cases, government entities may share liability for:

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

The Evidence We Preserve in Shelby County Trucking Cases

Critical evidence in trucking accident cases can disappear quickly. We act fast to preserve:

Electronic Data That Disappears Fast

  • ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, throttle position, and fault codes. Can be overwritten in 30 days.
  • ELD Records: Prove hours of service compliance or violations. Required to be retained for 6 months.
  • GPS/Telematics Data: Shows the truck’s location, speed, and route history.
  • Cell Phone Records: Prove distracted driving if the driver was texting or talking.
  • Dashcam Footage: Can show the accident from the truck’s perspective. Often overwritten within days.

Driver and Company Records

  • Driver Qualification File: Shows hiring practices, training, and qualifications (49 CFR § 391.51).
  • Hours of Service Records: Prove fatigue violations (49 CFR § 395).
  • Maintenance Records: Show whether the truck was properly maintained (49 CFR § 396).
  • Inspection Reports: Document pre-trip and post-trip inspections (49 CFR § 396.11).
  • Drug and Alcohol Test Results: Prove impairment at the time of the accident.

Physical Evidence

  • The Truck and Trailer: We inspect for defects and violations.
  • Failed Components: Such as brakes, tires, or steering parts.
  • Cargo and Securement Devices: To prove loading violations.
  • Accident Scene Evidence: Skid marks, debris patterns, road conditions.

Catastrophic Injuries from Shelby County 18-Wheeler Accidents

Due to the massive size and weight disparity between trucks and passenger vehicles, 18-wheeler accidents often cause catastrophic injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

TBI occurs when the brain is damaged by sudden trauma. In trucking accidents, this often results from:

  • Striking the steering wheel, dashboard, or windshield
  • Being struck by debris or cargo
  • The violent motion of the vehicle during impact

Symptoms may include:

  • Headaches, dizziness, nausea
  • Memory loss and confusion
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Mood changes, depression, anxiety
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Speech difficulties
  • Personality changes

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

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

  • Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
  • Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
  • Incomplete Injuries: Some nerve function remains
  • Complete Injuries: Total loss of sensation and movement

These injuries require lifelong medical care and often prevent victims from returning to work.

Amputations

Amputations may occur at the scene due to crushing injuries or may be required surgically when limbs are too severely damaged. Common in trucking accidents due to:

  • Crushing forces from the impact
  • Entrapment requiring amputation for extraction
  • Severe burns requiring surgical removal
  • Infections from open wounds

Amputations create permanent disability and require extensive rehabilitation.

Severe Burns

Burns occur in trucking accidents from:

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

Burn injuries often require multiple reconstructive surgeries and cause permanent scarring.

Internal Organ Damage

Internal injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening:

  • Liver lacerations or ruptures
  • Spleen damage requiring removal
  • Kidney damage
  • Lung contusions or collapse (pneumothorax)
  • Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
  • Bowel and intestinal damage

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents prove fatal, surviving family members may bring wrongful death claims. In Shelby County, these claims may include:

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

Your Rights After a Shelby County 18-Wheeler Accident

Texas law provides several avenues for compensation after a trucking accident:

Economic Damages

These compensate for calculable financial losses:

  • Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs
  • Lost Wages: Income lost due to injury and recovery
  • Lost Earning Capacity: Reduction in future earning ability
  • Property Damage: Vehicle repair or replacement
  • Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications
  • Life Care Costs: Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages

These compensate for quality of life impacts:

  • Pain and Suffering: Physical pain from injuries
  • Mental Anguish: Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression
  • Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in activities
  • Disfigurement: Scarring, visible injuries
  • Loss of Consortium: Impact on marriage and family relationships
  • Physical Impairment: Reduced physical capabilities

Punitive Damages

In cases of gross negligence or reckless disregard for safety, Texas law allows punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer. These may be available when:

  • 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 prioritized profit over safety

Texas has a complex cap on punitive damages: the greater of (2x economic damages + non-economic damages capped at $750,000) or $200,000.

The Attorney911 Advantage in Shelby County

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

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

  • Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts
  • Handled cases in federal court (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
  • Litigated against major trucking companies
  • Secured justice for families devastated by trucking accidents

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurers operate. He understands:

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

This insider knowledge gives us an unfair advantage in negotiating your settlement.

Federal Court Experience

Many trucking cases involve interstate commerce and can be filed in federal court. Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, giving us the ability to handle complex federal cases.

Bilingual Services for Shelby County

Shelby County has a significant Hispanic population, many of whom work in the trucking and agricultural industries. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

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

Proven Track Record of Results

While every case is unique, our firm has a history of achieving significant results for our clients:

  • $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

Local Knowledge of Shelby County

We understand Shelby County’s:

  • Trucking corridors and accident hotspots
  • Local courts and judges
  • Jury demographics and tendencies
  • Local industries and their trucking patterns
  • Rural road conditions and challenges

This local knowledge helps us build stronger cases for our clients.

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

At the Scene

If you’re able to do so safely:

  1. Call 911 and report the accident
  2. Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor
  3. Document the scene with photos and video
    • Damage to all vehicles involved
    • The accident scene, road conditions, and skid marks
    • Your injuries
    • The truck and trailer (including license plates and DOT number)
    • Any visible cargo or securement issues
  4. Get information from the truck driver
    • Name, contact information, and CDL number
    • Trucking company name and contact information
    • Insurance information
  5. Collect witness information
    • Names and contact information for all witnesses
  6. Do NOT give statements to insurance adjusters
  7. Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911

In the Days Following

  1. Follow up with medical treatment as recommended
  2. Document your injuries with photos as they develop
  3. Keep a pain journal recording your symptoms and limitations
  4. Save all documentation related to the accident
    • Medical bills and records
    • Repair estimates
    • Correspondence with insurance companies
  5. Avoid social media – insurance companies will use your posts against you
  6. Stay in communication with your attorney

Why You Need an Attorney After a Shelby County Trucking Accident

The Trucking Company Has a Team Working Against You

Within hours of your accident, the trucking company will:

  • Send rapid-response investigators to the scene
  • Begin building their defense strategy
  • Have lawyers reviewing the evidence
  • Train their driver on what to say (and not say)

You need your own team fighting for you.

Critical Evidence Disappears Fast

  • Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days
  • ELD records may be retained for only 6 months
  • Dashcam footage is often deleted within days
  • Physical evidence may be repaired or destroyed
  • Witness memories fade over time

We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this evidence.

Trucking Cases Are Complex

Unlike car accidents, trucking cases involve:

  • Multiple liable parties (driver, company, cargo owner, etc.)
  • Federal regulations (FMCSA)
  • Complex insurance coverage issues
  • Specialized evidence (ECM, ELD, maintenance records)
  • Higher stakes (larger insurance policies)

Insurance Companies Will Try to Minimize Your Claim

Insurance adjusters are trained to:

  • Offer quick, lowball settlements
  • Deny or minimize your injuries
  • Blame you for the accident
  • Delay the claims process
  • Use your statements against you
  • Argue pre-existing conditions
  • Attack gaps in your treatment

Our former insurance defense attorney knows all these tactics and how to counter them.

You May Be Entitled to More Than You Realize

Many accident victims don’t understand the full value of their claim. We help you recover:

  • Past and future medical expenses
  • Lost wages and earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Physical impairment
  • Disfigurement
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

Common Questions About Shelby County 18-Wheeler Accidents

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Shelby County:

  1. Call 911 and report the accident
  2. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
  3. Document the scene with photos and video if possible
  4. Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
  5. Collect witness contact information
  6. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
  7. Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911

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. Shelby County hospitals like Shelby Regional 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 Shelby 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 Shelby 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.

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 Shelby 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 Shelby 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 Shelby 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 Shelby County?

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

How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

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

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

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

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

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

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

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.

Real Shelby County Families We’ve Helped

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved. The process took time, but they made it feel like a breeze. I’m so grateful for their hard work.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them. They treated me with respect and fought hard for my case.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years. I can’t thank them enough.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client

“In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Manginello law firm were able to help me out. I got the settlement I deserved.”
— Greg Garcia, Attorney911 Client

“Ralph reached out personally to check on me. That personal touch meant everything during such a difficult time.”
— Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client

The Attorney911 Promise to Shelby County

When you choose Attorney911 for your Shelby County 18-wheeler accident case, you get:

  1. Immediate Action: We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve critical evidence.
  2. Aggressive Investigation: We gather all available evidence, including black box data, ELD records, and maintenance logs.
  3. Insider Advantage: Our former insurance defense attorney knows exactly how the other side will try to minimize your claim.
  4. Local Knowledge: We understand Shelby County’s roads, courts, and industries.
  5. Bilingual Services: Hablamos Español. Lupe Peña provides direct representation without interpreters.
  6. Federal Court Experience: We can handle complex federal cases when needed.
  7. No Fee Unless We Win: You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
  8. Compassionate Representation: We treat you like family, not a case number.

Call Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Shelby County, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every hour. The trucking company already has a team working against you.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and start protecting your rights.

Remember: The insurance company’s first offer is always a lowball. Don’t settle for less than you deserve. Let us fight for the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.

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

Your fight for justice starts with one call. We answer. We fight. We win.

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