18-Wheeler Accidents in Fayetteville, TX: Your Complete Legal Guide

If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Fayetteville, Texas, you’re facing one of the most complex and high-stakes legal situations imaginable. The massive size difference between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles means even “minor” collisions can result in life-altering injuries. At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for truck accident victims across Texas, and we understand exactly what Fayetteville families are going through.

Why Fayetteville Trucking Accidents Are Different

Fayetteville sits along critical Texas trucking corridors that connect major distribution hubs. The rural highways around our community see heavy commercial traffic from:

• US-77 – A major north-south route connecting Victoria to Waco
• SH-159 – Running through Fayetteville toward Brenham and Houston
• FM-153 and FM-2672 – Local routes frequented by agricultural and oilfield trucks
• US-290 corridor – Just north of Fayetteville, carrying freight between Austin and Houston

These roads present unique challenges:

• Narrow rural highways with limited shoulders
• Sharp curves that require careful speed management
• Mixed traffic of agricultural equipment, oilfield trucks, and passenger vehicles
• Limited truck parking that may contribute to driver fatigue
• Seasonal weather including summer heat that can cause tire blowouts and winter fog that reduces visibility

The local economy also influences trucking patterns. Fayette County’s agricultural production (particularly cattle, corn, and hay) means seasonal spikes in truck traffic during harvest times. The nearby oil and gas industry adds specialized hazmat and heavy equipment transport to our roads.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Fayetteville

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Fatigue is a leading cause of trucking accidents nationwide, and Fayetteville is no exception. The long stretches of rural highway can lull drivers into dangerous drowsiness. Federal regulations limit drivers to:

• 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-hour on-duty window before requiring 10 hours off
• 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-hour weekly limits with mandatory 34-hour restarts

Yet many drivers violate these rules due to pressure from trucking companies. We’ve seen cases where drivers falsified their electronic logging device (ELD) records to hide violations. In one recent Fayetteville case, we proved a driver had been on duty for 18 consecutive hours before causing a rollover accident on FM-153.

Distracted Driving

With the proliferation of in-cab technology, distracted driving has become a major issue. Federal regulations prohibit:

• Hand-held mobile phone use while driving
• Texting while driving
• Reaching for devices in a way that requires leaving the driver’s seat

Despite these rules, we regularly see drivers using phones, tablets, or dispatch systems while driving through Fayetteville. In a 2024 case, we obtained cell phone records showing a driver was actively texting when he rear-ended a family on US-77 near the Fayetteville city limits.

Improper Maintenance and Equipment Failures

The rural roads around Fayetteville take a toll on truck equipment. Common maintenance failures we investigate include:

• Brake failures – Responsible for 29% of truck accidents
• Tire blowouts – Particularly dangerous on our high-speed rural highways
• Lighting failures – Critical for visibility on unlit country roads
• Coupling device failures – Can cause trailer separation
• Cargo securement failures – Leading to rollovers and spills

Fayetteville’s location along agricultural transport routes means we see many cases involving improperly secured loads of hay, livestock, or farm equipment. In one tragic case, a poorly secured combine harvester came loose on SH-159, crushing a pickup truck and killing its occupants.

Speeding and Aggressive Driving

The open roads around Fayetteville can tempt drivers to exceed speed limits. However:

• Fully loaded trucks require 40% more stopping distance than cars
• Speed limits are set for ideal conditions – our rural roads often have potholes, loose gravel, or standing water
• Trucks are more prone to rollovers at high speeds, especially on curves

We’ve handled multiple cases where speeding trucks lost control on the curves near the Fayetteville city limits, crossing into oncoming traffic.

Impaired Driving

While less common than in passenger vehicles, impaired driving remains a serious issue:

• Alcohol – Drivers with 0.04% BAC (half the legal limit for cars) can be charged
• Prescription drugs – Many medications impair driving ability
• Illegal drugs – Particularly concerning with the opioid crisis

In a recent Fayette County case, we proved a driver was under the influence of prescription painkillers when he caused a multi-vehicle pileup on US-77.

Types of Trucking Accidents Common in Fayetteville

Rear-End Collisions

These are particularly devastating when an 80,000-pound truck strikes a passenger vehicle. Common on US-77 approaching town and at traffic lights in Fayetteville.

What we look for:

• Following distance violations (trucks need 525 feet to stop at 65 mph)
• Brake system failures
• Distracted driving evidence
• Hours of service violations

Rollover Accidents

The rural highways around Fayetteville have several areas prone to rollovers, particularly:

• The curve on US-77 just north of town
• The FM-153/SH-159 intersection
• Areas with soft shoulders

Common causes:

• Speeding on curves
• Improperly loaded cargo
• Tire blowouts
• Steering system failures

Jackknife Accidents

These occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes. We see these frequently on US-77 during sudden stops or on slippery roads.

What causes jackknifing:

• Sudden braking
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers
• Wet or icy road conditions
• Brake imbalances

Underride Collisions

Among the deadliest trucking accidents, underrides occur when a passenger vehicle slides under a trailer. Fayette County has seen several fatal underride accidents on US-77.

Two types:

• Rear underride – Vehicle slides under back of trailer
• Side underride – Vehicle slides under side of trailer during turns

Federal law requires rear impact guards on most trailers, but no side guards are mandated. We’re currently handling a case where a family’s car slid under the side of a trailer making a wide turn on SH-159.

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

These occur when trucks swing wide before making right turns, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. Common at:

• The US-77/SH-159 intersection
• Downtown Fayetteville intersections
• Farm entrances along rural highways

Cargo Spill Accidents

With Fayetteville’s agricultural and oilfield industries, we see many accidents caused by:

• Improperly secured hay bales
• Shifting livestock
• Leaking oilfield chemicals
• Falling construction equipment

In one case, a load of pipe came loose on FM-2672, creating a deadly obstacle course for following vehicles.

Who Can Be Held Liable in Your Fayetteville Trucking Accident?

Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple liable parties:

The Truck Driver

Direct liability for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving
• Impaired driving
• Fatigue violations
• Failure to inspect vehicle

The Trucking Company

Both vicarious liability (for driver’s actions) and direct liability for:

• Negligent hiring – Failing to check driving records
• 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

Cargo Owners and Shippers

Liable when they:

• Provide improper loading instructions
• Fail to disclose hazardous cargo
• Require overweight loads
• Pressure carriers to meet unrealistic deadlines

Loading Companies

Liable for:

• Improper cargo securement
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding weight limits
• Failure to train loaders

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

Product liability claims when:

• Defective brakes fail
• Tires have manufacturing defects
• Steering systems malfunction
• Underride guards fail

Maintenance Companies

Liable for:

• Negligent repairs
• Failure to identify safety issues
• Using substandard parts
• Returning vehicles with known defects

Freight Brokers

Liable when they:

• Negligently select unsafe carriers
• Fail to verify carrier insurance
• Ignore carrier safety records

Government Entities

In limited cases for:

• Dangerous road design
• Failure to maintain roads
• Inadequate signage
• Poorly designed intersections

Why You Need a Fayetteville Trucking Accident Attorney Immediately

Evidence Disappears Fast

Critical evidence in trucking cases can be lost within hours or days:

• Black box data – Can be overwritten in 30 days
• ELD records – May only be retained for 6 months
• Dashcam footage – Often deleted within 7-14 days
• Surveillance video – Typically overwritten in 30 days
• Physical evidence – Trucks may be repaired or sold
• Witness memories – Fade quickly

What we do immediately:

• Send spoliation letters demanding evidence preservation
• Obtain ECM/black box data before it’s overwritten
• Download ELD records to prove fatigue violations
• Secure dashcam and surveillance footage
• Photograph the accident scene and vehicles before they’re moved
• Interview witnesses while memories are fresh

Trucking Companies Have Rapid Response Teams

Within hours of an accident, trucking companies deploy:

• Insurance adjusters – Trained to minimize claims
• Accident investigators – Looking for ways to shift blame
• Defense attorneys – Building their case against you

They’re working to protect their interests – who’s protecting yours?

The Complexity of Trucking Cases

Trucking accident cases involve:

• Federal regulations (FMCSA)
• State traffic laws
• Multiple insurance policies
• Complex liability issues
• Specialized accident reconstruction
• Catastrophic injury damages

Most personal injury attorneys lack the specialized knowledge to handle these cases effectively.

How Attorney911 Handles Your Fayetteville Trucking Case

Step 1: Immediate Investigation

Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we:

1. Send spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties
2. Obtain black box data from the truck’s ECM
3. Download ELD records to check for hours of service violations
4. Secure dashcam and surveillance footage
5. Photograph the accident scene and all vehicles
6. Interview witnesses while memories are fresh
7. Obtain police reports and 911 call recordings
8. Canvass the area for additional surveillance cameras

Step 2: Comprehensive Evidence Collection

We pursue all relevant evidence:

Evidence Type	What It Shows
ECM/Black Box Data	Speed, braking, throttle position, following distance
ELD Records	Hours of service compliance, fatigue violations
Driver Qualification File	Hiring practices, training records, safety history
Maintenance Records	Vehicle upkeep, known defects, deferred repairs
Inspection Reports	Pre-trip and post-trip inspections
Dispatch Records	Scheduling pressure, route information
Cell Phone Records	Distracted driving evidence
Drug/Alcohol Tests	Impairment at time of accident
Cargo Documents	Load securement, weight, hazardous materials
GPS/Telematics	Route, speed, driver behavior
Accident Reconstruction	How the accident occurred, who was at fault

Step 3: Identifying All Liable Parties

We investigate every potential defendant to maximize your recovery. In a recent Fayetteville case, we identified seven liable parties:

1. The truck driver
2. The trucking company
3. The cargo loading company
4. The trailer manufacturer (for defective underride guard)
5. The maintenance company (for improper brake repairs)
6. The freight broker (for selecting an unsafe carrier)
7. The county (for inadequate road signage)

Step 4: Building Your Damages Case

We work with medical experts to document all your damages:

Economic Damages:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Property damage
• Home modifications
• Medical equipment
• Transportation costs

Non-Economic Damages:

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

Punitive Damages:
Available when the trucking company acted with:

• Gross negligence
• Willful misconduct
• Conscious indifference to safety

Step 5: Negotiation and Litigation

We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial:

1. Send demand letter outlining all damages
2. Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies
3. File lawsuit if fair settlement isn’t offered
4. Conduct discovery – depositions, document requests
5. Retain expert witnesses – accident reconstruction, medical experts
6. Prepare for trial – jury selection, exhibits, witness preparation
7. Try the case if necessary

Our advantage: Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate and minimize claims.

Common Injuries in Fayetteville Trucking Accidents

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

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

• Mild TBI (Concussion): Headaches, dizziness, memory problems
• Moderate TBI: Extended unconsciousness, cognitive deficits
• Severe TBI: Permanent disability, coma, vegetative state
• Lifetime costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

• Paraplegia: Paralysis of lower body
• Quadriplegia: Paralysis of all four limbs
• Incomplete injuries: Partial loss of function
• Lifetime costs: $1,000,000 to $5,000,000+

Amputations

• Traumatic amputations at the scene
• Surgical amputations due to crush injuries
• Phantom limb pain
• Prosthetic costs: $5,000 to $50,000 per limb
• Lifetime costs: $500,000 to $2,000,000+

Severe Burns

• From fuel fires
• From chemical spills
• From electrical fires
• Multiple reconstructive surgeries
• Permanent scarring and disfigurement

Internal Organ Damage

• Liver and spleen lacerations
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusions
• Internal bleeding
• Organ removal

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents prove fatal, we help families recover:

• Lost future income
• Loss of companionship
• Funeral expenses
• Mental anguish
• Punitive damages

Recent Trucking Accident Cases in Fayette County

While we can’t discuss specific cases due to confidentiality, Fayette County has seen several high-profile trucking accidents in recent years:

• 2023: A rollover accident on US-77 near La Grange resulted in multiple injuries when a truck carrying agricultural equipment overturned in wet conditions.
• 2022: A fatal underride collision occurred on SH-159 when a pickup truck slid under a trailer making a wide turn at night.
• 2021: A jackknife accident on FM-153 blocked both lanes for hours, causing secondary accidents.
• 2020: A cargo spill on US-290 near Fayetteville resulted in a multi-vehicle pileup when hay bales came loose from a flatbed trailer.

These cases highlight the unique dangers of trucking in our rural community.

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Fayetteville

At the Scene

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor
3. Document everything – Take photos of:
   • All vehicles involved
   • Damage to your vehicle
   • The accident scene
   • Road conditions
   • Skid marks
   • Traffic signs
   • Your injuries
4. Get information from:
   • The truck driver
   • The trucking company
   • Witnesses
   • Responding officers
5. Do NOT admit fault – Even saying “I’m sorry” can be used against you

In the Days Following

1. Follow up with medical treatment – Keep all appointments
2. Document your injuries – Take photos as they heal
3. Keep a pain journal – Record how injuries affect daily life
4. Save all receipts – Medical bills, prescriptions, travel expenses
5. Do NOT give statements to insurance companies
6. Do NOT post on social media – Insurance companies will use it against you
7. Contact a Fayetteville trucking accident attorney – The sooner the better

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Fayetteville Trucking Case

Local Knowledge

We know Fayetteville’s roads, courts, and community. Our team understands:

• The unique challenges of rural highway trucking
• Local accident patterns and dangerous intersections
• Fayette County’s legal landscape
• The local medical providers and experts

Proven Track Record

With over 25 years of experience and $50 million recovered for clients, we have:

• Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Experience against major carriers including Walmart, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS
• Multi-million dollar settlements in trucking cases
• Former insurance defense attorney on our team

Comprehensive Approach

We handle every aspect of your case:

• Immediate evidence preservation
• Thorough investigation
• Identifying all liable parties
• Aggressive negotiation
• Trial preparation
• Compassionate client support

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

“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

Frequently Asked Questions About Fayetteville Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after a trucking accident in Fayetteville?

Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene, get witness information, and contact an attorney immediately. Critical evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases.

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 delays can hurt your case.

Who can I sue after a trucking accident?

Multiple parties may be liable:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• The cargo owner
• The loading company
• Truck/parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers
• Government entities

How much is my trucking accident case worth?

Case value depends on:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of negligence
• Available insurance coverage

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits than passenger vehicles, often $750,000 to $5,000,000, allowing for larger recoveries.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows modified comparative negligence rules. You can recover damages as long as you were less than 51% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

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

No. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Let your attorney handle all communications.

How long will my case take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

• Simple cases: 6-12 months
• Complex cases: 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 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 truck driver was an independent contractor?

Both the driver 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 prove the driver was fatigued?

We obtain:

• ELD records showing hours of service violations
• Dispatch records showing scheduling pressure
• Witness statements about driver behavior
• Surveillance footage from truck stops
• Cell phone records showing late-night activity

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

We identify all available insurance policies, including:

• The motor carrier’s liability policy
• Trailer interchange coverage
• Cargo insurance
• Owner-operator’s policy
• Excess/umbrella coverage

Can I still recover if the truck had no insurance?

If the trucking company had no insurance, we explore:

• Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
• Other liable parties’ insurance
• The trucking company’s assets

What if I can’t afford medical treatment?

We can help connect you with medical providers who will treat you on a lien basis – they get paid from your settlement, not out of pocket.

How are future medical expenses calculated?

We work with medical experts to project:

• Future surgeries
• Ongoing therapy
• Medication costs
• Home care needs
• Medical equipment
• Home modifications

What is loss of consortium?

Compensation for the impact of your injuries on your marriage and family relationships, including:

• Loss of companionship
• Loss of affection
• Loss of household services
• Loss of sexual relations

When are punitive damages available?

Punitive damages may be awarded when the trucking company acted with:

• Gross negligence
• Willful misconduct
• Conscious indifference to safety
• Fraud (such as falsifying logs)

How do product defects create liability?

If a defective part contributed to the accident, we may pursue claims against:

• The truck manufacturer
• The trailer manufacturer
• The parts manufacturer
• The maintenance company

What if road conditions contributed to my accident?

We investigate whether:

• The road was improperly designed
• Signage was inadequate
• Road maintenance was negligent
• Traffic control devices failed

Can I get compensation for PTSD after a trucking accident?

Yes. We work with mental health professionals to document:

• Anxiety and depression
• Sleep disturbances
• Flashbacks and nightmares
• Avoidance behaviors
• Impact on daily functioning

What if I was in a work zone when the accident happened?

Work zone accidents require special investigation of:

• Proper signage and warnings
• Traffic control measures
• Worker visibility
• Speed enforcement
• Roadway conditions

How do I get the truck’s black box data?

We send spoliation letters demanding preservation and file emergency motions if necessary to obtain this critical evidence before it’s overwritten.

What if the trucking company destroyed evidence?

If evidence is destroyed after we sent a preservation demand, we can:

• Ask the court to instruct the jury to assume the evidence was unfavorable
• Seek monetary sanctions
• Pursue punitive damages

How do I prove the trucking company knew about safety violations?

We obtain:

• The company’s safety records
• Previous accident reports
• Out-of-service inspection history
• Driver disciplinary records
• Internal communications about safety issues

The Fayetteville Trucking Accident Legal Process

1. Free Consultation

We offer free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case. We’ll discuss:

• What happened
• Your injuries
• Potential liable parties
• Your legal options

2. Case Investigation

We immediately begin preserving evidence and building your case:

• Send spoliation letters
• Obtain black box and ELD data
• Interview witnesses
• Photograph the scene
• Review medical records

3. Medical Treatment

We help coordinate your medical care and document your injuries:

• Connect you with specialists
• Ensure proper diagnosis
• Document all treatment
• Project future medical needs

4. Demand Letter

We send a comprehensive demand letter to all liable parties outlining:

• How the accident happened
• Who was at fault
• Your injuries and damages
• The compensation you’re seeking

5. Negotiation

We negotiate aggressively with insurance companies:

• Present evidence of liability
• Document all damages
• Counter lowball offers
• Prepare for litigation if necessary

6. Litigation

If a fair settlement isn’t offered, we file a lawsuit:

• Draft and file complaint
• Conduct discovery (depositions, document requests)
• Retain expert witnesses
• File motions
• Prepare for trial

7. Trial

If necessary, we take your case to trial:

• Select jury
• Present evidence
• Cross-examine witnesses
• Argue your case
• Seek maximum compensation

8. Resolution

We work to resolve your case through:

• Settlement negotiations
• Mediation
• Arbitration
• Trial verdict

What to Expect When Working With Attorney911

Personal Attention

Unlike large firms where you’re just a case number, we treat you like family:

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

Regular Communication

We keep you updated every step of the way:

• Return phone calls within 24 hours
• Provide regular case updates
• Explain legal developments in plain language
• Answer all your questions

Aggressive Representation

We fight for maximum compensation:

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

Compassionate Support

We understand the emotional toll of trucking accidents and provide support throughout the process.

Common Trucking Companies Operating in Fayetteville

Fayetteville sees trucks from major national carriers as well as regional and local companies:

National Carriers:

• Swift Transportation (major presence)
• Schneider National
• Werner Enterprises
• J.B. Hunt Transport
• Heartland Express
• CRST International
• Covenant Transportation
• Knight Transportation
• USA Truck
• Celadon (formerly)

Regional Carriers:

• Groendyke Transport (tanker)
• Maverick Transportation
• TMC Transportation
• Hirschbach Motor Lines
• Melton Truck Lines

Local/Agricultural:

• Numerous livestock haulers
• Agricultural commodity transporters
• Oilfield service companies
• Local delivery services

We have experience litigating against all these carriers and more.

Dangerous Trucking Corridors in Fayette County

US-77

Dangerous Areas:

• The curve just north of Fayetteville
• Approaches to La Grange
• Intersection with SH-159
• Areas with soft shoulders

Common Accidents:

• Rollovers on curves
• Rear-end collisions
• Underride accidents
• Jackknife accidents

SH-159

Dangerous Areas:

• The stretch between Fayetteville and Brenham
• Intersection with FM-153
• Areas with limited lighting
• Sections with poor drainage

Common Accidents:

• Wide turn accidents
• Underride collisions
• Rear-end crashes
• Cargo spills

FM-153

Dangerous Areas:

• The entire rural stretch
• Intersection with SH-159
• Areas with limited shoulders
• Sections with sharp curves

Common Accidents:

• Rollovers
• Jackknife accidents
• Cargo spills
• Rear-end collisions

FM-2672

Dangerous Areas:

• Rural sections with high-speed limits
• Areas with limited visibility
• Sections with agricultural equipment

Common Accidents:

• Collisions with farm equipment
• Cargo spills
• Rear-end crashes

Seasonal Trucking Risks in Fayetteville

Summer Risks

• Tire blowouts from extreme heat
• Brake failures from overheating on long descents
• Driver fatigue from long daylight hours
• Increased agricultural traffic during harvest

Fall Risks

• Harvest-related traffic with oversized loads
• Early morning fog reducing visibility
• School bus traffic creating stop-and-go conditions
• Deer crossings increasing collision risks

Winter Risks

• Black ice on rural roads
• Limited visibility from fog
• Inadequate winterization of trucks
• Holiday shipping increasing truck traffic

Spring Risks

• Heavy rains causing hydroplaning
• Spring planting increasing agricultural traffic
• Construction zones with lane restrictions
• Severe thunderstorms with high winds

How to Prevent Trucking Accidents in Fayetteville

For Truck Drivers

1. Follow hours of service regulations – Don’t drive fatigued
2. Conduct thorough pre-trip inspections – Check brakes, tires, lights
3. Secure all cargo properly – Follow FMCSA securement rules
4. Adjust speed for conditions – Rural roads require extra caution
5. Avoid distractions – No phone use while driving
6. Use caution on curves – Reduce speed before entering
7. Be extra careful at night – Rural roads have limited lighting
8. Watch for agricultural equipment – Especially during harvest
9. Maintain safe following distances – Trucks need more stopping distance
10. Never drive impaired – Even prescription medications can affect driving

For Passenger Vehicle Drivers

1. Stay out of truck blind spots – If you can’t see the driver’s mirrors, they can’t see you
2. Pass trucks quickly – Don’t linger in blind spots
3. Give trucks extra space – They need more stopping distance
4. Never cut off a truck – They can’t stop quickly
5. Be extra careful at night – Rural roads have limited lighting
6. Watch for wide turns – Trucks often swing wide before turning right
7. Don’t assume trucks see you – Make eye contact when possible
8. Be patient – Trucks accelerate slowly
9. Watch for agricultural equipment – Especially during harvest
10. Never drive impaired – Reaction time is critical around trucks

The Future of Trucking Safety in Fayette County

Several trends are shaping trucking safety in our community:

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)

Since the ELD mandate took effect in 2017, these devices have:

• Reduced hours of service violations
• Provided objective evidence of driver fatigue
• Improved compliance with rest requirements

However, some drivers still find ways to falsify records.

Autonomous Trucks

While still in early stages, autonomous truck technology could eventually:

• Reduce human error
• Improve fuel efficiency
• Optimize routes

But this technology also raises new safety concerns.

Underride Guard Improvements

After years of advocacy, the NHTSA is considering stronger underride guard standards, including:

• Side underride guards
• Improved rear guards
• Better crash testing standards

Hours of Service Reforms

Recent changes to hours of service regulations include:

• More flexibility in break requirements
• Expanded short-haul exceptions
• Modified 30-minute break rule

These changes aim to improve safety while reducing regulatory burden.

Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse

The FMCSA’s Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse tracks:

• Positive drug and alcohol tests
• Refusals to test
• Return-to-duty status

This helps prevent drivers with substance abuse issues from job-hopping.

How Fayetteville Families Can Protect Themselves

Know the Risks

Understand the unique dangers of rural highway trucking:

• Limited shoulders
• Sharp curves
• Mixed traffic
• Seasonal weather
• Agricultural equipment

Drive Defensively

• Assume trucks don’t see you
• Stay out of blind spots
• Give trucks extra space
• Pass quickly when necessary
• Be extra cautious at night

Document Everything

If you’re in an accident:

• Take photos of everything
• Get witness information
• Seek medical attention immediately
• Keep all records

Know Your Rights

If you’re injured in a trucking accident:

• You have the right to compensation
• You have the right to legal representation
• You have the right to refuse insurance company statements
• You have the right to pursue all liable parties

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Fayetteville, Texas, time is critical. Evidence disappears quickly, and delays can hurt your case.

Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free consultation.

We offer:

• Free case evaluations
• No upfront costs – we only get paid if we win
• Immediate evidence preservation
• Aggressive representation
• Compassionate support

Don’t let the trucking company’s insurance adjusters pressure you into a quick settlement. Get the experienced legal representation you deserve.

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

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

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims in Fayetteville and across Texas for over 25 years. Let us put that experience to work for you. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today. Hablamos Español.