18-Wheeler Accidents in City of Combine, Texas: Your Complete Legal Guide

Every year, thousands of families across Texas face life-altering consequences from 18-wheeler accidents. If you or someone you love has been involved in a trucking collision in City of Combine or anywhere in Kaufman County, you need to understand your rights and the complex legal landscape that follows these catastrophic events. At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for truck accident victims throughout Texas, and we’re here to help City of Combine residents navigate this difficult journey.

Why City of Combine Trucking Accidents Are Different

City of Combine sits at a critical juncture in Kaufman County’s transportation network, with major highways like State Highway 34 and FM 148 intersecting through our community. These routes connect to larger corridors that see heavy commercial traffic, including:

• Interstate 20 – The major east-west route carrying freight between Dallas/Fort Worth and points east
• State Highway 34 – Running north-south through City of Combine, connecting to I-20
• FM 148 – A key local route that intersects with SH 34 in City of Combine
• Nearby US Highway 175 – Providing access to the broader Texas highway system

This location means City of Combine sees a steady flow of commercial traffic, from local delivery trucks to long-haul 18-wheelers transporting goods across the state. The mix of local and through traffic creates unique risks on our roads.

The Devastating Reality of Trucking Accidents

When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. Nationwide statistics paint a grim picture:

• Over 5,100 people die in large truck crashes annually
• 76% of those killed are occupants of the smaller vehicle
• Trucking accidents account for approximately 10% of all traffic fatalities
• In Texas alone, truck crashes cause thousands of serious injuries each year

Here in Kaufman County, we’ve seen firsthand how these accidents change lives in an instant. The massive size and weight disparity between trucks and passenger vehicles means that what might be a minor fender-bender between cars becomes a life-threatening event when an 18-wheeler is involved.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in City of Combine

Understanding the causes of trucking accidents helps victims and their families seek justice. In our experience handling cases throughout Kaufman County, we’ve identified several recurring factors:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Federal regulations limit truck drivers to:

• 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• A maximum 14-hour on-duty window
• Mandatory 30-minute breaks after 8 hours of driving
• Weekly limits of 60 or 70 hours (with 34-hour restart)

Despite these rules, fatigue remains a leading cause of trucking accidents. In City of Combine and across Kaufman County, we’ve seen cases where drivers push beyond these limits due to pressure from trucking companies or their own financial incentives. Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) were supposed to eliminate this problem, but we still find violations in many of our cases.

Improper Maintenance and Equipment Failures

Trucks travel thousands of miles between inspections, and maintenance failures can have deadly consequences. Common issues we encounter in City of Combine trucking cases include:

• Brake failures – Responsible for 29% of truck accidents
• Tire blowouts – Particularly dangerous on Kaufman County’s highways
• Lighting and visibility issues – Critical on rural roads with limited lighting
• Coupling device failures – Can cause trailers to detach
• Steering system defects – Make trucks difficult to control

Distracted Driving

Despite federal prohibitions on hand-held phone use, distracted driving remains a significant problem. In City of Combine, we’ve handled cases involving:

• Texting while driving
• GPS device manipulation
• Dispatch system distractions
• Eating or drinking while driving
• External distractions (billboards, scenery)

Improper Loading and Cargo Securement

Cargo-related accidents are particularly common in areas with distribution centers and warehouses. In City of Combine, we’ve seen:

• Overloaded trucks – Exceeding weight limits makes trucks harder to control
• Improperly secured cargo – Can shift during transit, causing instability
• Unbalanced loads – Increase rollover risk, especially on curves
• Hazardous material spills – Create additional dangers

Speeding and Reckless Driving

The long stretches of highway in Kaufman County can tempt drivers to exceed speed limits. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases stopping distance, making accidents more likely and more severe.

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone” Collisions)

Trucks have massive blind spots where smaller vehicles disappear from view. In City of Combine, we frequently see accidents where trucks:

• Change lanes without seeing vehicles in blind spots
• Make turns that cut off other vehicles
• Merge into traffic without proper clearance

The Most Dangerous Types of Trucking Accidents in City of Combine

Our experience with Kaufman County trucking cases has shown that certain accident types occur more frequently in our area:

Rear-End Collisions

With trucks requiring up to 525 feet to stop at highway speeds, rear-end collisions are common on Kaufman County’s roads. These accidents often result in:

• Severe whiplash injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord damage
• Fatalities when smaller vehicles are crushed

Underride Accidents

One of the most deadly accident types occurs when a passenger vehicle slides underneath a truck’s trailer. In City of Combine, we’ve handled cases where:

• Rear underride guards failed
• Side underride occurred during turns
• Visibility issues contributed to the collision

Rollover Accidents

The rural nature of Kaufman County means trucks often travel on roads with sharp curves and elevation changes. Improperly loaded or speeding trucks can roll over, causing:

• Multi-vehicle pileups
• Cargo spills that create additional hazards
• Crushing injuries to truck occupants and other vehicles

Jackknife Accidents

When a truck’s trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, it can block multiple lanes of traffic. In City of Combine, these accidents often occur due to:

• Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
• Improperly loaded trailers
• Equipment failures
• Driver error

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Trucks making right turns often swing wide to the left first, creating a dangerous gap that other vehicles may enter. In City of Combine, we’ve seen these accidents at intersections where:

• Trucks turn from one two-lane road onto another
• Visibility is limited by buildings or vegetation
• Drivers misjudge the truck’s turning path

Who Can Be Held Liable in a City of Combine Trucking Accident?

One of the most complex aspects of trucking accident cases is determining all potentially liable parties. Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple responsible parties:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be liable for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving
• Driving under the influence
• Violating hours of service regulations
• Failing to conduct proper pre-trip inspections

The Trucking Company

Trucking companies can be held directly liable for:

• Negligent hiring – Failing to properly vet drivers
• Negligent training – Inadequate safety instruction
• Negligent supervision – Failing to monitor driver performance
• Negligent maintenance – Poor vehicle upkeep
• Negligent scheduling – Pressuring drivers to violate HOS rules

Under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior, companies are also vicariously liable for their drivers’ actions within the scope of employment.

Cargo Loaders and Shippers

Companies responsible for loading cargo may be liable for:

• Overloading trucks beyond legal weight limits
• Improperly securing cargo
• Failing to properly balance loads
• Not providing proper loading instructions

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers can be held responsible for:

• Failing to properly repair vehicles
• Using substandard parts
• Not identifying critical safety issues
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable under product liability laws for:

• Defective brake systems
• Faulty tires
• Defective steering components
• Poorly designed safety features

Freight Brokers

Companies that arrange transportation but don’t own trucks can sometimes be held liable for:

• Hiring carriers with poor safety records
• Failing to verify carrier insurance
• Not checking carrier safety ratings

Government Entities

In some cases, government agencies may share liability for:

• Poor road design
• Inadequate signage
• Failure to maintain roads
• Improper traffic control devices

The Critical Evidence in Your City of Combine Trucking Case

Evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. If you’ve been involved in an accident in City of Combine, it’s crucial to act immediately to preserve these critical pieces of evidence:

Electronic Data

Modern trucks are equipped with sophisticated electronic systems that record valuable data:

• Electronic Control Module (ECM)/Black Box – Records speed, braking, throttle position, and other operational data
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) – Documents driver hours of service and duty status
• GPS/Telematics – Tracks vehicle location, speed, and route history
• Dashcam Footage – Provides visual evidence of the accident and driver behavior

This data can be overwritten or deleted quickly – sometimes within 30 days. At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.

Driver Records

The trucking company must maintain a Driver Qualification File containing:

• Employment application and background check
• Driving record (MVR)
• Medical certification
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training records
• Previous employer verification

These records can reveal patterns of negligence or safety violations.

Maintenance and Inspection Records

Federal regulations require detailed maintenance documentation:

• Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
• Annual inspection records
• Repair and maintenance logs
• Out-of-service orders
• Parts replacement records

Poor maintenance records can prove negligence on the part of the trucking company or maintenance provider.

Cargo Documentation

Cargo-related evidence includes:

• Bills of lading
• Loading instructions
• Weight certificates
• Securement documentation
• Hazardous material declarations

This evidence can show whether the cargo was properly loaded and secured.

Accident Scene Documentation

Critical evidence from the scene includes:

• Police accident reports
• Photographs of vehicle damage
• Photographs of road conditions and skid marks
• Witness statements
• Weather and lighting conditions
• Roadway design and signage

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in City of Combine Trucking Cases

The massive size and weight of 18-wheelers mean that accidents often result in life-altering injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, causing:

• Memory loss and cognitive impairment
• Personality changes
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood disorders and depression
• Permanent disability

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord can result in:

• Paraplegia (loss of function in lower body)
• Quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs)
• Partial paralysis with some retained function
• Chronic pain and muscle spasms

Amputations

Severe crashes can result in traumatic amputations or require surgical removal of limbs due to:

• Crushing injuries
• Severe burns
• Infections from open wounds
• Vascular damage

Severe Burns

Trucking accidents can cause burns through:

• Fuel fires from ruptured tanks
• Chemical burns from hazardous cargo
• Electrical fires
• Friction burns from road contact

Internal Organ Damage

The forces involved in trucking accidents can cause:

• Liver and spleen lacerations
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusions or punctures
• Internal bleeding
• Bowel and intestinal damage

Multiple Fractures

The impact of a truck collision can break:

• Arms and legs
• Ribs
• Pelvis
• Facial bones
• Spine

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents prove fatal, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims for:

• Lost future income
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Funeral expenses
• Medical bills before death
• Pain and suffering of the deceased

The Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Texas law allows trucking accident victims to recover both economic and non-economic damages:

Economic Damages

• Medical expenses – Past, present, and future medical costs
• Lost wages – Income lost due to injury and recovery
• Lost earning capacity – Reduced ability to earn in the future
• Property damage – Vehicle repair or replacement
• Out-of-pocket expenses – Transportation, home modifications, etc.
• Life care costs – Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering – Physical pain from injuries
• Mental anguish – Psychological trauma and emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment – Inability to participate in activities
• Disfigurement – Scarring and 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, Texas law allows for punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer. These may be available when:

• The trucking company knowingly hired dangerous drivers
• Drivers were pressured to violate safety regulations
• Evidence was intentionally destroyed
• There was a pattern of safety violations

The City of Combine Legal Process for Trucking Accident Cases

Navigating a trucking accident case in Kaufman County involves several important steps:

1. Immediate Actions

• Seek medical attention immediately
• Document the accident scene if possible
• Contact law enforcement to file a report
• Gather witness information
• Notify your insurance company
• Contact an experienced trucking accident attorney

2. Investigation Phase

• Preserve evidence with spoliation letters
• Obtain police accident reports
• Collect electronic data (ECM, ELD, GPS)
• Gather driver and company records
• Interview witnesses
• Consult with accident reconstruction experts
• Analyze medical records

3. Demand and Negotiation

• Calculate full damages (economic and non-economic)
• Prepare and send demand package to insurance companies
• Negotiate with insurance adjusters
• Evaluate settlement offers

4. Litigation (If Necessary)

• File lawsuit in appropriate Kaufman County court
• Conduct discovery (interrogatories, depositions, document requests)
• File and respond to motions
• Prepare for trial
• Present case to jury if settlement cannot be reached

5. Resolution

• Accept settlement offer
• Proceed to trial and jury verdict
• Appeal if necessary

Why City of Combine Residents Need Specialized Legal Representation

Trucking accident cases are far more complex than typical car accident claims. City of Combine residents need attorneys who understand:

Federal Trucking Regulations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399) govern all aspects of commercial trucking. Our attorneys have deep expertise in these regulations and know how to use violations to prove negligence.

Kaufman County Courts and Procedures

We’re familiar with the Kaufman County court system, including:

• Kaufman County Courthouse – Where most civil cases are filed
• Local judges and their preferences
• Jury pools in Kaufman County
• Local rules and procedures

City of Combine-Specific Factors

Our local knowledge includes:

• Common accident locations in City of Combine
• Local traffic patterns and congestion points
• Weather conditions that affect driving
• Local law enforcement practices
• Kaufman County’s approach to trucking cases

Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who understands exactly how insurance companies:

• Evaluate trucking accident claims
• Train adjusters to minimize payouts
• Use recorded statements against victims
• Delay claims to pressure victims into accepting low offers

What Sets Attorney911 Apart for City of Combine Trucking Cases

When you’re facing the aftermath of a trucking accident in City of Combine, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team with the experience, resources, and dedication to fight for your rights. Here’s what sets our firm apart:

25+ Years of Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s handled trucking cases throughout Texas and has the experience to take on the largest trucking companies.

Federal Court Experience

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

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate and minimize claims – and now he uses that knowledge to fight for victims.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims, including:

• $5+ million for a logging brain injury case
• $3.8+ million for a car accident amputation case
• $2.5+ million for truck crash recoveries
• Millions for families in wrongful death cases

Bilingual Services

With Lupe Peña’s fluent Spanish and our bilingual staff, we can serve City of Combine’s Hispanic community directly without interpreters.

Three Texas Offices

While we’re proud to serve City of Combine from our Houston office, we also have locations in Austin and Beaumont, giving us a statewide presence to handle cases throughout Texas.

24/7 Availability

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. We’re available around the clock to respond to your legal emergency.

Common Questions from City of Combine Trucking Accident Victims

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in City of Combine?

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

What if the truck driver says I caused the accident?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation as long as you were less than 50% responsible. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault, you’ll recover 80% of your damages.

How much is my trucking accident case worth?

The value of your case depends on many factors:

• 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
• Available insurance coverage

Trucking cases often have higher values than typical car accidents because:

• Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits ($750,000 minimum)
• Injuries are often more severe
• Multiple parties may be liable
• Punitive damages may be available in cases of gross negligence

Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

No. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not for you. Anything you say can and will be used to minimize your claim. Politely decline to give any statements and refer the adjuster to your attorney.

What if I can’t afford an attorney?

At Attorney911, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means:

• You pay nothing upfront
• We advance all costs of investigation and litigation
• You only pay if we win your case
• Our fee comes from the recovery, not from your pocket

How long will my case take to resolve?

Case 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 ensuring you receive full compensation for your injuries.

Will my 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.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

We investigate all potentially liable parties to ensure you can recover compensation. Even if the primary trucking company goes bankrupt, other defendants (cargo loaders, maintenance companies, manufacturers) may still be liable.

Can I still recover if I was partially at fault?

Yes, as long as you were less than 50% at fault. Texas uses modified comparative negligence, which means your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault but not eliminated entirely.

What if I don’t have health insurance?

We can help you get the medical treatment you need through:

• Letters of Protection (LOP) with doctors
• Medical liens
• Treatment on a lien basis
• Other arrangements that allow you to get care now and pay later from your settlement

Immediate Steps to Take After a Trucking Accident in City of Combine

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in City of Combine, take these steps immediately to protect your rights:

1. Call 911 and Report the Accident

• Request police and emergency medical services
• Report all injuries, even if they seem minor
• Ensure a police report is filed

2. Seek Medical Attention

• Go to the emergency room or urgent care immediately
• Follow all medical advice and treatment plans
• Document all injuries and symptoms
• Keep all medical records and bills

3. Document the Scene

• Take photographs of:
  • All vehicles involved
  • Vehicle damage (interior and exterior)
  • Road conditions and skid marks
  • Traffic signs and signals
  • Your injuries
  • The accident scene from multiple angles
• Get contact information from all witnesses
• Note weather and lighting conditions

4. Collect Information from the Truck Driver

• Name and contact information
• Commercial driver’s license (CDL) number
• Trucking company name and contact information
• Insurance information
• License plate number of truck and trailer
• DOT number (usually on the truck door)

5. Preserve Evidence

• Do not repair or dispose of your vehicle until it’s been inspected
• Save all damaged property
• Keep all medical records and bills
• Document your recovery process

6. Contact an Experienced Trucking Accident Attorney

• Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911
• We’ll send a preservation letter immediately to protect critical evidence
• We’ll handle all communications with insurance companies
• We’ll begin building your case right away

Why City of Combine Residents Choose Attorney911

When you’re facing the aftermath of a trucking accident in City of Combine, you need a law firm that combines:

• Local knowledge of Kaufman County and City of Combine
• Deep expertise in trucking regulations and accident investigation
• Aggressive representation against large trucking companies
• Compassionate client service that treats you like family

Here’s what our clients say about working with 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

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

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in City of Combine or anywhere in Kaufman County, don’t wait. Every hour that passes increases the risk that critical evidence will be lost.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and begin protecting your rights.

Remember: The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of representation. Let Attorney911 fight for the compensation you deserve.