18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in De Kalb, Texas

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

The moment an 18-wheeler slams into your vehicle on De Kalb’s highways, your life changes instantly. One minute you’re driving home from work on US-259, the next you’re waking up in a hospital bed with catastrophic injuries. The trucking company already has their rapid-response team working to protect their interests. You need someone fighting for yours.

At Attorney911, we’ve been holding trucking companies accountable in De Kalb and across Northeast Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has recovered multi-million dollar verdicts against some of the largest trucking companies in America. We know the trucking corridors serving De Kalb – from the distribution centers along US-82 to the oil field traffic moving through Bowie County. When disaster strikes on De Kalb’s roads, you need a legal emergency lawyer who fights like your future depends on it—because it does.

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

Why De Kalb Trucking Accidents Are Different

De Kalb sits at the crossroads of major trucking routes that serve Northeast Texas and Southwest Arkansas. US-259 runs north-south through town, connecting to Interstate 30 just 30 miles to the south. US-82 stretches east-west, carrying freight between Texarkana and Paris. These highways see heavy truck traffic from:

• Oil and gas operations in the East Texas Oil Field
• Timber industry hauling from Bowie County’s forests
• Agricultural products from local farms
• Retail distribution serving De Kalb and surrounding communities
• Interstate commerce moving between Texas and Arkansas

The mix of local traffic and long-haul truckers creates dangerous conditions. Trucks making wide turns at De Kalb’s intersections, fatigued drivers pushing through the night, and poorly secured loads can all lead to catastrophic accidents. When these accidents happen, the injuries are often life-altering.

Common 18-Wheeler Accident Types in De Kalb

Jackknife Accidents on I-30 Approaches

The I-30 corridor south of De Kalb sees frequent jackknife accidents, especially during wet weather. When a truck’s trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, it can block multiple lanes and create chain-reaction collisions. These accidents often result from:

• Sudden braking on wet roads
• Speeding around curves
• Improperly loaded or empty trailers
• Brake system failures
• Driver inexperience with emergency maneuvers

Underride Collisions at De Kalb Intersections

De Kalb’s intersections along US-82 and US-259 are hotspots for underride accidents. When a passenger vehicle strikes the rear or side of a trailer and slides underneath, the results are often fatal. These accidents occur when:

• Trucks make wide turns across multiple lanes
• Trailers lack proper underride guards
• Rear lighting or reflectors are missing or malfunctioning
• Drivers fail to yield right-of-way
• Visibility is poor due to fog or rain

Rollover Accidents on Rural Highways

The rural roads around De Kalb see rollover accidents when trucks take curves too fast or encounter soft shoulders. These accidents frequently involve:

• Top-heavy loads
• Liquid cargo that shifts during turns
• Improperly secured loads
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reactions
• Roadway defects like inadequate banking

Rear-End Collisions on US-259

Rear-end collisions are common on US-259, especially near the I-30 interchange. An 80,000-pound truck needs nearly two football fields to stop from highway speeds. When truckers follow too closely or fail to brake in time, the results can be devastating.

Tire Blowouts on Long Hauls

De Kalb’s location on major trucking routes means many long-haul drivers pass through. Tire blowouts are a constant hazard, particularly in Texas heat. Blowouts often occur due to:

• Underinflated tires
• Overloaded vehicles
• Worn or aging tires
• Road debris
• Manufacturing defects

Cargo Spills on US-82

The US-82 corridor sees frequent cargo spills when loads aren’t properly secured. Falling cargo can strike vehicles or create road hazards that cause secondary accidents. Hazmat spills create additional dangers for first responders and nearby residents.

Who We Hold Accountable in De Kalb Trucking Accidents

When an 18-wheeler accident happens in De Kalb, multiple parties may share responsibility. We investigate every potential defendant to maximize your recovery.

The Truck Driver

Driver negligence is a factor in most trucking accidents. Common driver violations include:

• Hours of service violations (driving while fatigued)
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, dispatch communications)
• Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
• Impaired driving (drugs or alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Improper lane changes or wide turns

The Trucking Company

Trucking companies often bear ultimate responsibility through:

• Vicarious liability for driver actions within scope of employment
• Negligent hiring of unqualified drivers
• Negligent training that fails to teach safety procedures
• Negligent supervision that ignores safety violations
• Negligent maintenance of vehicles
• Negligent scheduling that pressures drivers to violate hours of service

Cargo Owners and Loaders

The companies that own and load cargo can be liable for:

• Overweight loads that exceed vehicle capacity
• Improperly secured cargo
• Hazardous materials not properly disclosed
• Pressure to meet unrealistic delivery schedules

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers may be responsible for:

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

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

Manufacturers can be liable for defective products including:

• Brake system failures
• Tire defects causing blowouts
• Steering mechanism failures
• Lighting system malfunctions
• Underride guard failures

Freight Brokers

Brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

• Selecting carriers with poor safety records
• Failing to verify carrier insurance and authority
• Ignoring carrier safety violations

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

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

What Evidence Disappears Quickly

Our Immediate Action Plan

When you call Attorney911 after a De Kalb trucking accident, we spring into action immediately:

1. Send Spoliation Letters – Within 24-48 hours, we send formal legal notices demanding preservation of all evidence
2. Secure Electronic Data – We demand immediate download of ECM, ELD, GPS, and dashcam data
3. Preserve Physical Evidence – We take steps to prevent repair or disposal of the truck and trailer
4. Collect Scene Evidence – We photograph the accident scene, vehicles, and injuries before evidence is disturbed
5. Interview Witnesses – We locate and interview witnesses while memories are fresh
6. Obtain Police Reports – We secure the official accident report and 911 call recordings
7. Hire Experts – We retain accident reconstruction experts to analyze the crash

“Evidence in De Kalb 18-wheeler accident cases disappears quickly. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Trucking companies in De Kalb and nationwide hire rapid-response teams to protect their interests. You need an attorney who moves just as fast.”
— Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner

FMCSA Regulations: Your Key to Proving Negligence

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates every commercial truck operating in De Kalb. These regulations establish clear safety standards. When trucking companies violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that lead to accidents.

Hours of Service Violations

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate to prevent fatigue:

• Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 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. When drivers violate these rules, they’re too tired to react safely.

Driver Qualification Requirements

FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a Driver Qualification (DQ) File for every driver containing:

• Employment application and background check
• Driving record from state licensing authority
• Road test certificate or equivalent
• Medical examiner’s certificate
• Annual driving record review
• Previous employer inquiries
• Drug and alcohol test records

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

Vehicle Maintenance Standards

FMCSA requires systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of all commercial vehicles. Key requirements include:

• Annual inspections of all vehicles
• Driver pre-trip and post-trip inspections
• Maintenance of brake systems, tires, lighting, and other safety equipment
• Record retention for 1 year

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes.

Cargo Securement Rules

FMCSA cargo securement standards require:

• Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent shifting
• Securement systems must withstand 0.8g deceleration forward, 0.5g acceleration rearward, and 0.5g lateral forces
• Specific requirements for different cargo types (logs, metal coils, machinery, etc.)

Cargo securement violations are among the top 10 most common FMCSA violations.

Catastrophic Injuries from De Kalb Trucking Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception, in De Kalb accidents.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when the brain impacts the inside of the skull due to crash forces. In De Kalb trucking accidents, we see:

• Mild TBI (Concussion): Confusion, headaches, brief loss of consciousness
• Moderate TBI: Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits
• Severe TBI: Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment

Lifetime care costs for severe TBI can exceed $3 million.

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Spinal cord damage disrupts 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 Injury: Some nerve function remains
• Complete Injury: Total loss of sensation and movement

Lifetime care costs for quadriplegia can exceed $5 million.

Amputations

Crushing forces from truck impacts often require surgical amputation or result in traumatic amputation at the scene. Amputations create:

• Permanent disability
• Career limitations
• Phantom limb pain
• Need for prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000 each)
• Home modification requirements

Severe Burns

Fuel tank ruptures, hazmat spills, and electrical fires in trucking accidents cause severe burns:

• First Degree: Epidermis only (minor)
• Second Degree: Epidermis and dermis (may require grafting)
• Third Degree: Full thickness (requires skin grafts)
• Fourth Degree: Through skin to muscle/bone (may require amputation)

Burn treatment often involves multiple reconstructive surgeries and lifelong scarring.

Internal Organ Damage

The forces involved in De Kalb trucking accidents can cause:

• Liver lacerations or rupture
• Spleen damage requiring removal
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusions or collapse
• Internal bleeding

These injuries may not show immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening.

Wrongful Death

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

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship and guidance)
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Punitive damages if gross negligence is proven

Multi-Million Dollar Results for De Kalb Families

At Attorney911, we’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims across Texas. While every case is unique, our results demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

• $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

“I was rear-ended and the team got right to work… I also got a very nice settlement.”
— MONGO SLADE, Attorney911 Client

Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies minimize claims. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for you. This insider advantage helps us secure maximum compensation for De Kalb families.

What Your De Kalb Trucking Accident Case Is Worth

The value of your case depends on many factors, including:

• Severity of your injuries
• Cost of medical treatment (past and future)
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
• Insurance coverage available

Unlike car accidents where insurance may be limited to $30,000-$100,000, trucking companies carry much higher coverage:

• Minimum federal requirement: $750,000
• Typical coverage: $1-5 million
• Hazardous materials: $5 million

This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.

Economic Damages

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

Non-Economic Damages

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

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company acted with gross negligence or reckless disregard for safety. In Texas, punitive damages are capped at the greater of:

• Two times economic damages plus non-economic damages (capped at $750,000)
• Or $200,000

The Attorney911 Advantage for De Kalb Families

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. Our firm has handled trucking cases against:

• Walmart trucking operations
• Coca-Cola distribution vehicles
• Amazon delivery trucks
• FedEx trucks
• UPS trucks
• Various commercial trucking companies

Federal Court Experience

We’re admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court.

Insurance Defense Background

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. This insider knowledge gives us an unfair advantage in settlement negotiations.

Local Knowledge of De Kalb

We know De Kalb’s trucking corridors, courts, and injury patterns. This local knowledge helps us build stronger cases for De Kalb families.

Spanish Language Services

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

“Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.”
— Attorney911

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.

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in De Kalb

If you’ve been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident in De Kalb, take these steps to protect your rights:

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel okay, get checked out immediately
3. Document the Scene – Take photos of all vehicle damage, the accident scene, road conditions, and your injuries
4. Get Truck Information – Record the trucking company name, DOT number, driver’s name, and insurance information
5. Collect Witness Information – Get names and contact information for any witnesses
6. Do NOT Give Recorded Statements – Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you
7. Call Attorney911 Immediately – 1-888-ATTY-911

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your De Kalb Trucking Case

When you’re facing life-altering injuries from a De Kalb trucking accident, you need more than just any lawyer. You need a legal emergency team that:

✅ Has 25+ years of trucking litigation experience
✅ Includes a former insurance defense attorney
✅ Has federal court access for complex cases
✅ Offers Spanish language services
✅ Works on contingency – no fee unless we win
✅ Has recovered millions for trucking accident victims
✅ Knows De Kalb’s trucking corridors and courts
✅ Sends spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
✅ Has offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

De Kalb Trucking Corridors We Know

Our attorneys are intimately familiar with the trucking routes serving De Kalb and Bowie County:

• US-259 – Primary north-south route through De Kalb, connecting to I-30
• US-82 – Major east-west corridor carrying freight between Texarkana and Paris
• FM 561 – Rural route serving agricultural areas north of De Kalb
• FM 44 – Connects De Kalb to New Boston and the Red River
• I-30 Corridor – Major interstate just 30 miles south of De Kalb
• Distribution Centers – Warehouses along US-82 and US-259
• Oil Field Access Roads – Serving the East Texas Oil Field
• Timber Haul Routes – Forestry operations in Bowie County

We know where accidents are most likely to occur and what factors contribute to crashes on these routes.

Common De Kalb Trucking Accident Scenarios

Intersection Collisions at US-82 and US-259

The intersection of US-82 and US-259 in downtown De Kalb sees frequent trucking accidents when:

• Trucks make wide right turns, cutting off other vehicles
• Drivers fail to yield right-of-way
• Visibility is poor due to fog or rain
• Traffic signals malfunction
• Drivers run red lights

Jackknife Accidents on I-30 Approaches

The I-30 corridor south of De Kalb is notorious for jackknife accidents, especially:

• During wet weather when roads are slick
• When drivers brake suddenly near the I-30 interchange
• When empty trailers are more prone to swing
• When drivers take curves too fast

Rear-End Collisions on US-259

US-259 sees frequent rear-end collisions when:

• Trucks follow too closely near the I-30 interchange
• Drivers are distracted by dispatch communications
• Fatigued drivers have delayed reaction times
• Brake systems fail
• Drivers fail to anticipate traffic slowdowns

Tire Blowouts on Long Hauls

De Kalb’s location on major trucking routes means many long-haul drivers pass through. Tire blowouts are common due to:

• Texas heat causing tire failure
• Underinflated tires
• Overloaded vehicles
• Worn or aging tires
• Road debris

Cargo Spills on US-82

The US-82 corridor sees frequent cargo spills when:

• Loads aren’t properly secured
• Tarps come loose in high winds
• Liquid cargo shifts during turns
• Hazmat materials aren’t properly contained

Trucking Companies Operating in De Kalb

De Kalb sees truck traffic from both local and national carriers. Some of the major trucking companies operating in the area include:

• Local and regional carriers serving Northeast Texas
• National carriers moving freight between Texas and Arkansas
• Oil field trucking companies serving the East Texas Oil Field
• Timber haulers transporting forestry products
• Retail distribution serving De Kalb and surrounding communities
• Amazon and other e-commerce delivery operations

When accidents happen, we know how to investigate these companies and hold them accountable.

De Kalb’s Legal Landscape for Trucking Cases

De Kalb is part of Bowie County, which is served by:

• Bowie County Courthouse in New Boston
• 128th Judicial District Court (civil cases)
• Texas 6th Court of Appeals in Texarkana (appeals)
• U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas (federal cases)

Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including trucking accidents. However, you should never wait this long to take action. Evidence disappears quickly, and your case will be much stronger if you contact us immediately.

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means:

• If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages
• Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you’re more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover anything

This makes it crucial to have an attorney who can minimize any fault attributed to you.

What to Expect in Your De Kalb Trucking Case

When you hire Attorney911 after a De Kalb trucking accident, here’s what to expect:

Immediate Action (0-48 Hours)

• We send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
• We secure ECM/black box data
• We obtain police reports and 911 call recordings
• We photograph the accident scene and vehicles
• We interview witnesses while memories are fresh

Investigation Phase (Days 1-30)

• We subpoena driver qualification files
• We obtain ELD and maintenance records
• We analyze ECM and telematics data
• We hire accident reconstruction experts
• We identify all potentially liable parties

Medical Treatment Phase (Weeks 1-12+)

• We help you get the medical care you need
• We document your injuries and treatment
• We calculate your economic damages
• We work with medical experts to establish prognosis

Negotiation Phase (Months 3-12)

• We send a demand letter to the trucking company
• We negotiate with insurance adjusters
• We counter lowball settlement offers
• We prepare for litigation if necessary

Litigation Phase (Months 12-36)

• We file a lawsuit if settlement negotiations fail
• We conduct discovery (depositions, document requests)
• We retain expert witnesses
• We prepare your case for trial
• We negotiate from a position of strength

Resolution Phase

• Most cases settle before trial
• If necessary, we take your case to verdict
• We ensure you receive maximum compensation

Frequently Asked Questions About De Kalb Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in De Kalb?

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

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

How quickly should I contact a De Kalb trucking accident attorney?

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

Who can I sue after a trucking accident in De Kalb?

Multiple parties may be liable in De Kalb 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.

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in De Kalb?

Case values depend on many factors:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages 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.

How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in De Kalb?

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years for personal injury cases, including trucking accidents. However, you should never wait this long. 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.

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

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

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

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

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

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

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

What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We pursue:

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

Can the trucking company destroy evidence?

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

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

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

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

• Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 hours off
• Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
• 30-minute break required after 8 hours driving
• 60/70 hour weekly limits

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

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find:

• Hours of service violations (driving too long)
• False log entries (lying about driving time)
• Brake system deficiencies
• Cargo securement failures
• Drug and alcohol violations
• Unqualified drivers (no valid CDL or medical certificate)
• Failure to inspect vehicles

What is a Driver Qualification File and why does it matter?

FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a file for every driver containing:

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

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

How do pre-trip inspections relate to my accident case?

Drivers must inspect their trucks before every trip. If they failed to conduct inspections or ignored known defects (bad brakes, worn tires, lighting problems), both the driver and company may be liable for negligence.

What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in De Kalb?

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 is my De Kalb trucking accident case worth?

Case values depend on:

• Severity of your 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.

What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in De Kalb?

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

De Kalb-Specific Trucking Accident Resources

Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers

If you’re injured in a De Kalb trucking accident, seek treatment at:

• CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System (Texarkana) – Level III Trauma Center
• Wadley Regional Medical Center (Texarkana)
• De Kalb Health & Rehabilitation Center (De Kalb)
• Red River Regional Hospital (New Boston)

De Kalb Law Enforcement

• De Kalb Police Department
• Bowie County Sheriff’s Office
• Texas Department of Public Safety (State Troopers)

Truck Inspection Stations Serving De Kalb

• Texas DPS Commercial Vehicle Enforcement – Various locations in Northeast Texas
• Bowie County Weigh Station – On I-30 near New Boston

Local Towing and Recovery Services

• De Kalb Wrecker Service
• Bowie County Towing
• Northeast Texas Heavy Duty Towing (for commercial vehicles)

Legal Resources

• Bowie County Courthouse – 710 James Bowie Drive, New Boston, TX 75570
• Texas Department of Transportation – Bowie County office
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration – Texas Division

Why De Kalb Families Trust Attorney911

When an 18-wheeler changes your life in an instant on De Kalb’s highways, you need more than just any lawyer. You need a legal emergency team that treats you like family and fights like your future depends on it.

“They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze.”
— Beth Bonds, Attorney911 Client

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for De Kalb families for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has recovered multi-million dollar verdicts against some of the largest trucking companies in America. Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies minimize claims.

We know De Kalb’s trucking corridors, from the distribution centers along US-82 to the oil field traffic moving through Bowie County. When disaster strikes on De Kalb’s roads, we’re here to fight for you.

Free Consultation for De Kalb Trucking Accident Victims

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in De Kalb, Texas, call Attorney911 now for a free consultation.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
🌐 https://attorney911.com
📧 ralph@atty911.com

We answer calls 24/7. The sooner you call, the sooner we can start protecting your rights and preserving critical evidence. Don’t let the trucking company’s lawyers get a head start – call Attorney911 today.

“The trucking company is hoping you don’t know your rights. Let’s change that.”
— Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner

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