18-Wheeler Accidents in Marble Falls: Your Complete Guide to Justice and Compensation

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Marble Falls, Texas, 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 because we’ve helped hundreds of Marble Falls families navigate these exact circumstances.

Marble Falls sits at the heart of Texas Hill Country, where scenic highways like US-281 and TX-71 intersect with major freight routes. While these roads connect our community to Austin, San Antonio, and beyond, they also carry significant commercial truck traffic. The beautiful vistas and winding roads that make our area special can become dangerous when combined with fatigued drivers, poorly maintained trucks, or companies that cut corners on safety.

Why Marble Falls Trucking Accidents Are Different

Marble Falls presents unique challenges for trucking accident victims:

Hill Country Terrain: The rolling hills and sharp curves of our region demand experienced drivers who understand how to handle large vehicles on grades and turns. When inexperienced drivers or poorly maintained trucks encounter these conditions, accidents happen.
Seasonal Traffic: Our area sees increased traffic during events like the Marble Falls Walkway of Lights, Highland Lakes Bluegrass Festival, and summer tourism. More vehicles on the road mean higher risk of collisions with commercial trucks.
Local Industries: The granite quarries, wine country, and growing tech sector in nearby Austin bring specialized trucking needs. Heavy equipment, oversized loads, and time-sensitive deliveries create additional hazards.
Limited Medical Facilities: While we have excellent local healthcare, severe injuries often require transport to trauma centers in Austin or San Antonio. This delay can impact your recovery and your case.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents

Every year, thousands of Americans are killed or seriously injured in accidents involving large trucks. The statistics are sobering:

Over 5,100 people die in truck crashes annually
More than 125,000 people suffer injuries
76% of those killed are occupants of other vehicles
Truck accidents account for 13% of all traffic fatalities

In Marble Falls and Burnet County, we’ve seen firsthand how these accidents change lives forever. The sheer size and weight of an 18-wheeler – up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded – means that when accidents happen, they’re often catastrophic.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Marble Falls

Our experience handling Marble Falls trucking cases has revealed several recurring causes:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

The FMCSA limits how long truck drivers can operate without rest:

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

Despite these regulations, we frequently see drivers exceeding these limits. The pressure to meet tight delivery schedules often leads to falsified logbooks and exhausted drivers on our roads.

Improper Cargo Loading

Cargo securement violations are among the most common FMCSA violations we encounter. When cargo isn’t properly secured:

Loads can shift during transit, affecting the truck’s center of gravity
Improperly balanced loads make trucks more prone to rollovers
Overloaded trucks have longer stopping distances
Unsecured cargo can fall onto roadways, creating hazards for other vehicles

The granite industry in our area creates unique cargo challenges that require specialized securement.

Brake Failures

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. Common brake issues include:

Worn brake pads or shoes
Improper brake adjustments
Air brake system leaks or failures
Overheated brakes on long descents

The hills around Marble Falls put particular stress on braking systems, making proper maintenance critical.

Tire Blowouts

Tire failures cause thousands of accidents each year. Common causes include:

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

The Texas heat can accelerate tire degradation, making regular inspections essential.

Distracted Driving

Despite federal regulations prohibiting mobile phone use while driving (49 CFR § 392.82), we still see:

Texting while driving
Using GPS devices
Eating or drinking while operating the vehicle
Adjusting in-cab electronics

Impaired Driving

While less common than other factors, impaired driving still occurs:

Alcohol use (BAC of .04 or higher is illegal for commercial drivers)
Illegal drugs
Prescription medication misuse
Over-the-counter medication that causes drowsiness

Poor Vehicle Maintenance

FMCSA requires systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of all commercial vehicles. Common maintenance failures include:

Brake system deficiencies
Tire wear and damage
Lighting and reflector problems
Steering system issues
Suspension problems

Inexperienced Drivers

The trucking industry faces a severe driver shortage, leading to:

Hiring of inexperienced drivers
Inadequate training programs
Failure to properly vet driver qualifications

Types of Trucking Accidents We See in Marble Falls

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknifing occurs when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often sweeping across multiple lanes of traffic. These accidents are particularly dangerous on US-281 where traffic moves at high speeds.

Common causes in our area:

Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
Speeding on curves
Empty or lightly loaded trailers
Improperly secured cargo
Brake failures

Underride Collisions

Underride accidents occur when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of a trailer and slides underneath. These are among the most deadly accidents we see.

Marble Falls-specific factors:

Low visibility at night on rural roads
Trucks parked on road shoulders
Wide turns at intersections
Missing or inadequate underride guards

Rollover Accidents

Rollovers happen when a truck tips onto its side or roof. The hills and curves around Marble Falls create conditions where these accidents are more likely.

Local contributing factors:

Speeding on curves (especially on TX-71)
Improperly secured or shifting cargo
Liquid cargo slosh in tankers
Overcorrection after tire blowouts
Taking turns too sharply

Rear-End Collisions

Due to their size and weight, 18-wheelers require much longer stopping distances than passenger vehicles.

Why these happen in our area:

Following too closely on US-281
Driver distraction
Driver fatigue
Brake failures
Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Trucks need to swing wide to make right turns, creating a gap that other vehicles sometimes enter.

Common locations in Marble Falls:

Intersection of US-281 and TX-71
Main Street and 3rd Street
FM 1431 and RR 1431
Park Street and 5th Street

Blind Spot Accidents

Trucks have significant blind spots, often called “No-Zones”:

Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
Left Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward
Right Side No-Zone: Much larger than left side – most dangerous

Tire Blowout Accidents

Tire failures can cause the driver to lose control, especially on high-speed roads like US-281.

Local factors:

Texas heat accelerating tire wear
Long stretches without truck stops for inspections
Debris from construction zones
Overloaded vehicles

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake failures are particularly dangerous on the hills around Marble Falls.

Common scenarios:

Long descents on US-281
Overheated brakes from frequent braking
Poor maintenance
Manufacturing defects

Cargo Spill Accidents

Improperly secured cargo can fall from trucks, creating hazards for other vehicles.

Local risks:

Granite and construction materials
Agricultural products
Hazardous materials from industrial sites
Debris from unsecured loads

Who Is Liable for Your Marble Falls Trucking Accident?

One of the most important aspects of trucking accident cases is that multiple parties may be responsible. Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve several liable parties.

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

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 is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets and the most responsibility for safety.

Vicarious Liability: The company is responsible for the driver’s actions if the driver was acting within the scope of employment.

Direct Negligence: The company can be directly liable for:

Negligent Hiring: Hiring unqualified or dangerous drivers
Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance
Negligent Maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep
Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service rules

Cargo Owner/Shipper

The company that owns the cargo may be liable for:

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

Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

Improper cargo securement
Unbalanced load distribution
Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns

Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

Manufacturers may be liable for:

Design defects
Manufacturing defects
Failure to warn of known dangers
Defective safety systems

Parts Manufacturer

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

Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance companies may be liable for:

Negligent repairs
Failure to identify critical safety issues
Using substandard or wrong parts
Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Freight Broker

Freight brokers who arrange transportation 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

Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

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

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

Government Entity

In limited circumstances, government entities may be liable for:

Dangerous road design
Failure to maintain roads
Inadequate signage
Improper work zone setup

The Critical Evidence in Your Marble Falls Trucking Case

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

Electronic Data

ECM/Black Box Data: Commercial trucks have electronic systems that record operational data:

Speed before and during the crash
Brake application timing
Throttle position
Following distance
GPS location
Fault codes

ELD Data: Electronic Logging Devices record:

Driver hours of service
Duty status
GPS location
Driving time

This data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days.

Driver Records

Driver Qualification File: Contains:

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

Hours of Service Records: Show:

Driving time
On-duty time
Off-duty time
Break periods

Vehicle Records

Maintenance Records: Include:

Inspection reports
Repair records
Parts replacement history
Brake adjustment records

Inspection Reports: Include:

Pre-trip inspections
Post-trip inspections
Annual inspections
Roadside inspection history

Cargo Records

Bill of Lading: Shows:

What was being transported
Weight of the load
Loading instructions

Cargo Securement Documentation: Shows:

How cargo was secured
Type and number of tiedowns used
Weight distribution

Other Critical Evidence

Cell Phone Records: Can prove:

Distracted driving
Texting while driving
Phone calls during driving

Dispatch Records: Show:

Trip schedules
Delivery deadlines
Communication between driver and company

Drug and Alcohol Test Results: Can prove:

Impairment at time of accident

Surveillance Video: From:

Dashcams
Nearby businesses
Traffic cameras

Physical Evidence:

The truck and trailer
Failed components
Cargo and securement devices
Tire remnants

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

At Attorney911, we know that the first 48 hours after a trucking accident are critical. That’s why we have a comprehensive evidence preservation protocol that we activate immediately when we’re retained.

Step 1: Immediate Spoliation Letter

Within hours of being hired, we send a formal legal notice to:

The trucking company
Their insurance company
All potentially liable parties

This letter demands preservation of all evidence related to the accident, including:

ECM/Black Box data
ELD records
Driver Qualification File
Maintenance records
Inspection reports
Dispatch records
Drug and alcohol test results
Cell phone records
The physical truck and trailer

Step 2: Electronic Data Preservation

We demand immediate download of:

ECM/Black Box data
ELD records
GPS/telematics data
Dashcam footage
Dispatch communications

Step 3: Physical Evidence Protection

We take steps to protect:

The accident scene
The vehicles involved
Failed components
Tire remnants
Cargo and securement devices

Step 4: Witness Identification

We:

Identify all witnesses
Obtain contact information
Take statements before memories fade

Step 5: Scene Documentation

We:

Photograph the accident scene
Document road conditions
Measure skid marks
Document traffic control devices
Photograph all vehicle damage

Step 6: Expert Deployment

We deploy:

Accident reconstruction experts
Trucking safety experts
Mechanical engineers
Medical experts

The Catastrophic Injuries From Trucking Accidents

The physics of trucking accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh 20-25 times more than a passenger car. When these vehicles collide, the results are often devastating.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In trucking accidents, this often happens when the head strikes the steering wheel, dashboard, or window.

Severity levels:

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

Common symptoms:

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

Long-term consequences:

Permanent cognitive impairment
Inability to work
Need for ongoing care and supervision
Increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s
Depression and emotional disorders

Spinal Cord Injury

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

Types of paralysis:

Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
Incomplete Injury: Some nerve function remains
Complete Injury: No nerve function below injury

Lifetime care costs:

Paraplegia: $1.1 million to $2.5 million+
Quadriplegia: $3.5 million to $5 million+

Amputation

Amputations occur when limbs are severed at the scene or when injuries are so severe that surgical removal is required.

Ongoing medical needs:

Initial surgery and hospitalization
Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ each)
Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Occupational therapy
Psychological counseling

Impact on life:

Permanent disability
Career limitations
Phantom limb pain
Body image issues
Dependency on others

Severe Burns

Burns occur from:

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

Burn classification:

First Degree: Epidermis only
Second Degree: Epidermis and dermis
Third Degree: Full thickness
Fourth Degree: Through skin to muscle/bone

Long-term consequences:

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

Internal Organ Damage

Common internal injuries include:

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

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can bring a wrongful death claim.

Who can bring a claim in Texas:

Surviving spouse
Children (minor and adult)
Parents

Damages available:

Lost future income and benefits
Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
Mental anguish
Funeral and burial expenses
Medical expenses before death
Punitive damages (if gross negligence)

The Insurance Battle: What You’re Really Up Against

Trucking companies and their insurers have one goal: to pay you as little as possible. They have teams of adjusters, investigators, and lawyers working to minimize your claim. At Attorney911, we have something they don’t – a former insurance defense attorney on our team.

Common Insurance Tactics and How We Counter Them

1. Quick Lowball Settlement Offers
Tactic: Offer a quick settlement before you understand the full extent of your injuries.
Our Counter: We never accept early offers. We wait until you’ve completed treatment and we’ve calculated all your damages.

2. Denying or Minimizing Injuries
Tactic: Argue that your injuries aren’t as serious as you claim or that they existed before the accident.
Our Counter: We obtain comprehensive medical documentation, expert testimony, and detailed records of your treatment and recovery.

3. Blaming the Victim
Tactic: Argue that you were partially or completely at fault for the accident.
Our Counter: We conduct thorough investigations, gather all available evidence, and hire accident reconstruction experts to prove what really happened.

4. Delaying the Claims Process
Tactic: Drag out the process hoping you’ll become frustrated and accept a lower settlement.
Our Counter: We keep the pressure on, file lawsuits when necessary, and set depositions to force action.

5. Using Recorded Statements Against You
Tactic: Get you to give a recorded statement and use your words against you.
Our Counter: We advise our clients never to give statements without an attorney present.

6. “Pre-Existing Condition” Defense
Tactic: Argue that your injuries existed before the accident.
Our Counter: We apply the “Eggshell Skull” doctrine – we take our clients as we find them. Even if you had a pre-existing condition, if the accident made it worse, you’re entitled to compensation.

7. “Gap in Treatment” Attacks
Tactic: Argue that gaps in your medical treatment mean your injuries aren’t serious.
Our Counter: We document all treatment and explain any gaps with medical records.

8. Sending Surveillance Investigators
Tactic: Hire investigators to follow you and film your activities.
Our Counter: We advise our clients on appropriate conduct and expose unfair surveillance tactics.

9. Hiring “Independent” Medical Examiners
Tactic: Send you to a doctor who will minimize your injuries.
Our Counter: We counter with our own medical experts and the opinions of your treating physicians.

10. Drowning You in Paperwork
Tactic: Overwhelm you with requests for documents and information.
Our Counter: We handle all communications and ensure they get what they’re entitled to – no more, no less.

The Compensation You Deserve

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical auto policies. This means there’s often significant compensation available for your injuries.

Economic Damages

These are calculable 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/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 future misconduct.

The Legal Process: What to Expect

Step 1: Free Consultation

We offer free, no-obligation consultations to evaluate your case. During this meeting, we’ll:

Listen to your story
Review the facts of your accident
Explain your legal options
Answer your questions

Step 2: Case Investigation

If we take your case, we immediately begin:

Sending spoliation letters
Preserving evidence
Interviewing witnesses
Reviewing medical records
Consulting with experts

Step 3: Medical Treatment

We’ll help you:

Get the medical care you need
Document your injuries and treatment
Understand your prognosis

Step 4: Demand Letter

Once you’ve completed treatment, we’ll:

Calculate all your damages
Prepare a comprehensive demand package
Send it to the insurance company

Step 5: Negotiation

We’ll:

Negotiate aggressively with the insurance company
Reject lowball offers
Prepare for trial if necessary

Step 6: Litigation (If Needed)

If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’ll:

File a lawsuit
Conduct discovery
Take depositions
Prepare for trial

Step 7: Trial or Settlement

Most cases settle before trial, but we’re always prepared to go to court if that’s what it takes to get you the compensation you deserve.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Marble Falls Trucking Case

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team that will fight for you like family. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:

1. Local Knowledge of Marble Falls

We know Marble Falls and Burnet County:

Our attorneys are familiar with local courts and judges
We understand the unique challenges of Hill Country roads
We know the local medical facilities and experts
We’re part of the Marble Falls community

2. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

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

Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts
Handled cases against major trucking companies
Secured compensation for catastrophic injuries
Represented families in wrongful death cases

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This is critical for:

Interstate trucking cases
Complex multi-party litigation
Cases involving federal regulations

4. Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows:

How insurance companies evaluate claims
The tactics adjusters use to minimize payouts
What makes them settle for maximum amounts
How to counter every strategy they use against you

5. Proven Track Record of Results

We’ve recovered millions for our clients, including:

$5+ Million – Logging Brain Injury Settlement
$3.8+ Million – Car Accident Amputation Settlement
$2.5+ Million – Truck Crash Recovery
$2+ Million – Maritime Back Injury Settlement
Millions for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

6. Comprehensive Approach

We handle every aspect of your case:

Evidence preservation
Investigation
Medical documentation
Expert consultation
Negotiation
Litigation
Trial preparation

7. Personal Attention

At Attorney911, you’re not just a case number. We treat our clients like family:

Direct access to your attorney
Regular case updates
Compassionate support throughout the process
24/7 availability for emergencies

8. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis:

No upfront costs
No hourly fees
You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you
We advance all costs of investigation and litigation

9. Spanish Language Services

Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, allowing us to serve Marble Falls’ Hispanic community directly without interpreters.

What Our Clients Say About Us

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

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

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client

“I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
— Donald Wilcox, Attorney911 Client

“Ralph reached out personally.”
— Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client

The Marble Falls Trucking Corridors We Know

Our attorneys are intimately familiar with the trucking routes that serve Marble Falls:

US-281

This major north-south route connects Marble Falls to San Antonio and Wichita Falls. It’s a critical corridor for:

Fuel tankers serving local gas stations
Heavy equipment from granite quarries
Agricultural products
General freight

The hills and curves on US-281 create unique challenges for truck drivers, especially when combined with heavy traffic during tourist seasons.

TX-71

This east-west route connects Marble Falls to Austin and points east. It carries:

Wine and agricultural products
Construction materials
General freight
Passenger vehicles during commuting hours

The scenic but winding nature of TX-71 creates hazards for large trucks, particularly when drivers are unfamiliar with the road.

FM 1431

This route connects Marble Falls to Kingsland and points west. It’s used by:

Local delivery trucks
Construction vehicles
Agricultural equipment
Tourist traffic

The mix of local and through traffic on FM 1431 creates unique challenges.

Local Roads

Marble Falls’ local roads see significant truck traffic from:

Local delivery vehicles
Construction trucks
Garbage trucks
Service vehicles

The intersection of Main Street and 3rd Street, in particular, has seen several truck-related accidents due to visibility issues and tight turns.

The Time to Act Is Now

If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident in Marble Falls, time is not on your side. Evidence is disappearing every day. The trucking company’s insurance adjusters are already working to protect their interests. You need someone protecting yours.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll:

Evaluate your case
Explain your legal options
Send preservation letters to protect your evidence
Begin building your claim immediately

Remember, we work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. Don’t let the trucking company take advantage of you. Get the legal team that fights for Marble Falls families.

Frequently Asked Questions About Marble Falls Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after a trucking accident in Marble Falls?

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

Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?

YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. The Seton Highland Lakes Hospital in Burnet and Baylor Scott & White Medical Center in Marble Falls can provide initial care, but severe injuries may require transport to trauma centers in Austin.

What information should I collect at the 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?

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 an 18-wheeler accident in Marble Falls?

Multiple parties may be liable:

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)

Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?

Usually YES. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for:

Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified drivers)
Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)

What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs – the data tells the true story.

What is an owner-operator and does that affect my case?

An owner-operator is a driver who owns their own truck and contracts with trucking companies. This can complicate liability, but both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.

How do I find out if the trucking company has a bad safety record?

FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain the carrier’s:

CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
Inspection history and out-of-service rates
Crash history
Safety rating

A poor safety record can prove the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on the road.

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

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

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 Marble Falls?

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.

What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in Marble Falls?

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

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years from the date of death.

How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Marble Falls?

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.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Marble Falls, don’t wait another minute. The trucking company’s team is already working to protect their interests. You need a team protecting yours.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re available 24/7 to take your call.

Remember:

We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win
We advance all costs of investigation and litigation
We have a former insurance defense attorney on our team
We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims
We treat our clients like family

Don’t let the trucking company take advantage of you. Get the Marble Falls trucking accident attorneys who fight for justice. Call Attorney911 now.