18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Red Lick, Texas

If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Red Lick, Texas, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. The massive size and weight of commercial trucks mean accidents often result in catastrophic injuries or wrongful death. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on victims and their families. Our experienced Red Lick trucking accident attorneys are here to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Why Red Lick Trucking Accidents Are Different

Red Lick sits in Bowie County, Texas, near major transportation corridors that see heavy commercial truck traffic. The highways and roads serving our community connect to larger regional freight networks, making trucking accidents a significant concern for local residents. Unlike typical car accidents, 18-wheeler crashes involve complex federal regulations, multiple liable parties, and massive insurance policies.

The trucking industry is governed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, which establish strict safety standards for drivers, vehicles, and companies. When trucking companies violate these regulations, they put everyone on the road at risk. Our Red Lick 18-wheeler accident attorneys have the specialized knowledge to investigate these violations and hold negligent parties accountable.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Red Lick

Trucking accidents in Red Lick and throughout Bowie County often result from:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Truck drivers are required to follow strict hours of service (HOS) regulations that limit driving time and mandate rest periods. Despite these rules, many drivers and trucking companies push the limits to meet tight delivery deadlines. Fatigued driving is a leading cause of trucking accidents, impairing reaction time, judgment, and decision-making.

The FMCSA regulations (49 CFR Part 395) specify:

• Maximum 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• Cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• 30-minute break required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-hour weekly limits with 34-hour restart requirement

Improper Cargo Loading and Securement

When cargo isn’t properly loaded or secured, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable and increasing the risk of rollovers, jackknifes, or cargo spills. The FMCSA cargo securement regulations (49 CFR Part 393) require specific tiedowns, blocking, and bracing to prevent these dangerous situations.

Equipment Failures

Trucking companies must maintain their vehicles in safe operating condition. Brake failures, tire blowouts, steering malfunctions, and lighting issues are common equipment failures that lead to accidents. Regular inspections and maintenance are required under 49 CFR Part 396, but many companies cut corners to save time and money.

Distracted and Impaired Driving

Distracted driving is a growing problem in the trucking industry. Drivers may use cell phones, GPS devices, or dispatch systems while driving, taking their attention away from the road. Impaired driving due to alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription medications also contributes to many Red Lick trucking accidents.

Inadequate Driver Training

Operating an 18-wheeler requires specialized skills and training. Drivers must know how to handle large vehicles in various road and weather conditions. When trucking companies fail to provide proper training or hire unqualified drivers, they increase the risk of accidents.

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Red Lick

The unique characteristics of commercial trucks lead to specific types of accidents that are particularly dangerous:

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer swings out to the side of the cab, forming an angle similar to a folding pocket knife. These accidents often happen when drivers brake suddenly or improperly, especially on wet or icy roads. Empty or lightly loaded trailers are more prone to jackknifing.

In Red Lick, jackknife accidents can block multiple lanes of traffic, leading to secondary collisions. The sudden loss of control can cause the truck to strike other vehicles or force them off the road.

Rollover Accidents

Due to their high center of gravity, 18-wheelers are prone to rollover accidents, especially when taking curves too quickly or when cargo shifts during transit. Rollovers can crush vehicles beneath the trailer or spill cargo onto the roadway, creating hazards for other motorists.

These accidents are particularly dangerous in Red Lick because they often result in multi-vehicle pileups and can block major roads for hours during cleanup and investigation.

Underride Collisions

Underride collisions occur when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of a truck and slides underneath the trailer. The height difference often causes the top of the passenger vehicle to be sheared off at windshield level, resulting in catastrophic injuries or death.

Federal regulations require rear impact guards on trailers, but these guards don’t always prevent underride collisions, especially at higher speeds. Side underride guards are not currently required by federal law, making side underride collisions particularly deadly.

Rear-End Collisions

Due to their massive weight, 18-wheelers require much longer stopping distances than passenger vehicles. A fully loaded truck traveling at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to come to a complete stop – nearly the length of two football fields. When truck drivers follow too closely, are distracted, or have brake failures, they often rear-end other vehicles with devastating force.

Wide Turn Accidents

Trucks need extra space to make turns, especially right turns. Drivers often swing wide to the left before making a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles may try to enter. When the truck completes its turn, it can crush or strike the vehicle that entered the gap.

Blind Spot Collisions

Commercial trucks have significant blind spots, known as “No-Zones,” where the driver cannot see other vehicles. These blind spots exist:

• Directly in front of the cab (20 feet)
• Directly behind the trailer (30 feet)
• Along both sides of the trailer (larger on the right side)

When truck drivers change lanes without checking these blind spots, they can collide with vehicles they didn’t see.

Catastrophic Injuries from Red Lick Trucking Accidents

The force of an 18-wheeler collision often results in life-altering injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In trucking accidents, the extreme forces can cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull, leading to bruising, bleeding, or tearing of brain tissue. TBI can range from mild concussions to severe, permanent brain damage.

Symptoms may include:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory problems and confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes and personality shifts
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
• Speech difficulties

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord can disrupt communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis. The level of injury determines the extent of paralysis:

• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs

Spinal cord injuries often require lifelong medical care and assistance with daily activities.

Amputations

The crushing forces in trucking accidents can sever limbs at the scene or cause injuries so severe that surgical amputation is necessary. Amputations require extensive rehabilitation, prosthetic limbs, and psychological counseling.

Severe Burns

Trucking accidents often result in fires or explosions, causing severe burns. Burn injuries require extensive medical treatment, including skin grafts and reconstructive surgery. Victims may experience chronic pain, scarring, and psychological trauma.

Internal Organ Damage

The force of a trucking accident can cause internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent. These injuries can be life-threatening and require emergency surgery.

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident is fatal, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. These claims seek compensation for:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses before death

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Red Lick Trucking Accident?

Unlike typical car accidents, trucking accidents often involve multiple liable parties. Our Red Lick 18-wheeler accident attorneys investigate all potentially responsible parties to maximize your compensation.

The Truck Driver

The driver may be liable for negligent conduct such as:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving
• Fatigued driving
• Impaired driving
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Violation of traffic laws

The Trucking Company/Motor Carrier

The trucking company can be held liable through:

• Vicarious liability: The company is responsible for the driver’s actions within the scope of employment
• Direct negligence:
  • Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified drivers)
  • Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
  • Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
  • Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)

Cargo Owners and Shippers

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

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous cargo
• Requiring overweight loading
• Pressuring the carrier to expedite beyond safe limits

Cargo Loading Companies

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking and bracing

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for defective products that contributed to the accident, including:

• Design defects in brake systems, stability control, or fuel tank placement
• Manufacturing defects in components
• Failure to warn of known dangers

Parts Manufacturers

Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for defects that caused the accident.

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance companies may be liable for:

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

Freight Brokers

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

• Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
• Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
• Failure to check carrier CSA scores

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, government entities may be liable for:

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

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

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

Why Time Is Critical

• ECM/Black Box Data: Can be overwritten in 30 days or with new driving events
• ELD Data: May be retained for only 6 months
• Dashcam Footage: Often deleted within 7-14 days
• Surveillance Video: Business cameras typically overwrite in 7-30 days
• Witness Memory: Fades significantly within weeks
• Physical Evidence: Vehicles may be repaired, sold, or scrapped

What We Do Within 48 Hours

1. Send Spoliation Letters: Formal legal notices demanding preservation of all evidence
2. Demand ECM/Black Box Data: Electronic data showing speed, braking, and other critical factors
3. Secure ELD Records: Electronic logging device data proving hours of service compliance
4. Obtain Dashcam Footage: Video evidence of the accident and driver behavior
5. Collect Physical Evidence: Preserve the truck, trailer, and failed components
6. Interview Witnesses: Document statements before memories fade
7. Photograph the Scene: Document road conditions, skid marks, and vehicle positions

Types of Evidence We Preserve

• Electronic Data:

  • Engine Control Module (ECM) data
  • Event Data Recorder (EDR) data
  • Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
  • GPS and telematics data
  • Dashcam footage
  • Dispatch communications
  • Cell phone records

• Driver Records:

  • Driver Qualification File
  • Employment application
  • Background check
  • Medical certification
  • Drug and alcohol test results
  • Training records

• Vehicle Records:

  • Maintenance and repair records
  • Inspection reports
  • Out-of-service orders
  • Tire records
  • Brake inspection records

• Company Records:

  • Hours of service records
  • Dispatch logs
  • Safety policies
  • Training curricula
  • Previous accident history

Compensation Available in Red Lick Trucking Accident Cases

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical drivers, allowing for significant compensation when catastrophic injuries occur.

Economic Damages

• 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

• 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 willful misconduct, punitive damages may be available to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. Texas law allows punitive damages when the defendant acted with:

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

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Red Lick Trucking Accident Case

Experience and Expertise

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience fighting for injury victims in Texas. He has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for clients devastated by trucking accidents. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims.

Local Knowledge

We know Red Lick and Bowie County. We understand the local courts, judges, and trucking corridors that serve our community. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.

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.

Compassionate Service

We treat our clients like family. Our team includes Spanish-speaking staff to serve Red Lick’s diverse community. We understand the trauma you’re experiencing and are here to support you every step of the way.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us.

Recent Trucking Verdicts and Settlements

While we cannot guarantee specific results, our experience and the results achieved in similar cases demonstrate our ability to secure significant compensation 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

These results show what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable for their negligence.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Red Lick

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Red Lick, 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. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries
3. Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of:
   • All vehicles involved
   • Damage to your vehicle and the truck
   • Road conditions, skid marks, and debris
   • Your injuries
   • The truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company information
4. Collect Information:
   • Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
   • Trucking company name and contact information
   • Witness names and phone numbers
   • Responding officer’s name and badge number
5. Do NOT Give Statements: Don’t speak to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster without legal representation
6. Call Attorney911: Contact us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 to protect your evidence and rights

Common Questions About Red Lick Trucking Accidents

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

Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. However, you should contact an attorney immediately. Evidence disappears quickly, and the sooner we begin investigating, the stronger your case will be.

How much is my trucking accident case worth?

Case value depends on many factors, including:

• 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 limits ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation creates leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready if trial becomes necessary.

What if the truck driver says I caused the accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation as long as you were not more than 50% responsible. Our job is to investigate thoroughly and prove what really happened.

Can I afford an attorney?

Yes. We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. There are no upfront costs or hourly fees. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

We investigate all potentially liable parties to ensure there are multiple sources of recovery. Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, other defendants (driver, cargo owner, maintenance company, etc.) may still be liable.

Red Lick Trucking Corridors and Dangerous Areas

Red Lick is served by several major highways and trucking routes that see significant commercial traffic:

Interstate 30

I-30 runs east-west through Bowie County, connecting Texarkana to Dallas and beyond. This major freight corridor sees heavy truck traffic, including:

• Long-haul trucks traveling between Texas and the East Coast
• Local distribution trucks serving regional markets
• Hazardous material shipments

The interchange with US-59 is a particularly busy area that sees frequent truck traffic and potential congestion.

US Highway 59

US-59 runs north-south through Bowie County, connecting Houston to the Arkansas border. This route serves as a major freight corridor for:

• Trucks traveling between the Port of Houston and inland markets
• Agricultural shipments from East Texas
• Local distribution and delivery trucks

The section through Red Lick and nearby Texarkana experiences significant truck traffic, especially during peak hours.

State Highway 8

SH 8 serves as an important east-west route through Bowie County, connecting Red Lick to other communities and regional highways. While not as heavily traveled as interstates, it still sees commercial truck traffic serving local businesses and industries.

Local Distribution Centers

Red Lick and the surrounding area are home to several distribution centers and warehouses that generate significant truck traffic. These facilities often operate around the clock, with trucks arriving and departing at all hours.

Railroad Crossings

Bowie County has several railroad crossings that can create bottlenecks and dangerous situations when trains pass. Trucks waiting at crossings can create traffic hazards, and impatient drivers may attempt dangerous maneuvers to avoid delays.

Weather-Related Trucking Hazards in Red Lick

Red Lick experiences weather conditions that can create additional hazards for truck drivers:

Rain and Flooding

Heavy rain can create slick road conditions, reducing traction and increasing stopping distances. Flooding can occur in low-lying areas, creating hazards for all vehicles, especially large trucks.

Fog

Morning fog is common in East Texas, reducing visibility and making it difficult for truck drivers to see other vehicles or obstacles on the road.

High Winds

Strong winds can affect high-profile trailers, causing them to sway or even tip over. Crosswinds are particularly dangerous for empty or lightly loaded trailers.

Ice and Winter Weather

While not common, winter weather can create hazardous conditions when it does occur. Black ice and freezing rain can make roads extremely slippery, and truck drivers may not be prepared for these conditions.

Industries That Contribute to Red Lick Truck Traffic

Several industries contribute to the commercial truck traffic in and around Red Lick:

Agriculture

East Texas is home to significant agricultural activity, including:

• Timber and forest products
• Poultry and livestock
• Crop farming (cotton, soybeans, corn)

These industries generate truck traffic for transporting raw materials and finished products.

Manufacturing

Bowie County has several manufacturing facilities that rely on truck transportation for:

• Raw material deliveries
• Finished product shipments
• Equipment transport

Retail and Distribution

Red Lick and the surrounding area are served by several distribution centers that generate significant truck traffic. These facilities serve local retailers and e-commerce operations.

Oil and Gas

While not as prominent as in other parts of Texas, the oil and gas industry still contributes to truck traffic in Bowie County through:

• Equipment transport
• Fuel deliveries
• Oilfield service vehicles

Contact Our Red Lick 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Red Lick, Texas, don’t wait to seek legal help. Critical evidence is disappearing every day. Our experienced trucking accident attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve.

Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free consultation. We’ll evaluate your case, explain your options, and begin preserving evidence immediately. Remember, you pay nothing unless we win your case.

“When an 18-wheeler changes your family’s life forever, you need a lawyer who treats you like family. At Attorney911, you’re not just another case number – you’re family to us.” – Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

Don’t let the trucking company’s insurance adjuster take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 today and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.