18-Wheeler Accidents in Floyd County: Your Complete Legal Guide

Every year, thousands of families across Texas experience life-altering devastation when an 18-wheeler crashes into their lives. If you or someone you love has been injured in a trucking accident on Floyd County’s highways, you already know the physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial uncertainty that follows. What you may not know is that the trucking company responsible likely has a team of lawyers working right now to minimize your claim – and that time is running out to protect your rights.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for Floyd County truck accident victims for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of the largest trucking companies in America. With offices serving Floyd County and the surrounding region, we know the local roads, courts, and trucking patterns that affect your case. More importantly, we know how to win.

Why Floyd County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Floyd County sits at the crossroads of major Texas freight corridors, with US Highway 62 and State Highway 70 carrying heavy commercial traffic between Amarillo, Lubbock, and points beyond. The county’s agricultural economy means grain trucks, livestock haulers, and equipment transporters share the roads with interstate freight carriers. This unique mix creates specific accident risks:

• Grain truck seasonality: Harvest times bring sudden spikes in heavy truck traffic
• Livestock haulers: Specialized vehicles with unique handling characteristics
• Equipment transport: Oversize loads create visibility and control challenges
• Rural road conditions: Many county roads lack proper signage and lighting
• Driver fatigue: Long hauls through West Texas create fatigue risks

Our team understands these local factors and how they contribute to trucking accidents. We’ve handled cases involving all types of commercial vehicles that operate in Floyd County, from major carriers to local agricultural haulers.

What To Do Immediately After a Floyd County Truck Accident

The moments after a trucking accident are critical. What you do – or don’t do – can make the difference between a fair recovery and being left with unpaid medical bills and permanent injuries.

1. Call 911 Immediately

Floyd County Sheriff’s Office and Texas DPS respond to accidents on our highways. Having official documentation of the crash is essential for your case. Even if injuries seem minor, call for help – adrenaline masks pain, and some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately.

2. Seek Medical Attention Without Delay

Floyd County Medical Center in Floydada and nearby hospitals in Plainview and Lubbock can evaluate your injuries. Tell medical providers about every symptom, no matter how minor it seems. Many serious conditions like traumatic brain injury or internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent.

3. Document the Scene Thoroughly

If you’re able, take photographs and video of:

• All vehicles involved (including license plates and DOT numbers)
• Damage to your vehicle and the truck
• Skid marks, debris patterns, and road conditions
• Traffic signs, signals, and road markings
• Your injuries
• Witnesses and their contact information

4. Get the Truck Driver’s Information

Collect:

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

5. Don’t Give Statements to Insurance Adjusters

The trucking company’s insurance adjuster will contact you quickly – often within hours. They are trained to get you to say things that hurt your case. Politely decline to give any recorded statements and refer them to your attorney.

6. Call Attorney911 Immediately

Every hour you wait, evidence disappears. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witness memories fade. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll send preservation letters immediately to protect your evidence.

The Most Common Types of Floyd County Trucking Accidents

Jackknife Accidents

When a truck’s trailer swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the cab, it creates a dangerous obstacle that sweeps across multiple lanes. These often occur on Floyd County’s rural highways when drivers brake suddenly on wet or icy roads.

Underride Collisions

One of the deadliest accident types, where a passenger vehicle slides underneath a truck’s trailer. Floyd County’s mix of high-speed highways and slower county roads creates conditions where these accidents frequently occur.

Rollover Accidents

Trucks can roll over when taking curves too fast, especially when carrying top-heavy loads. The tight turns on some of Floyd County’s rural roads create rollover risks for inexperienced drivers.

Rear-End Collisions

Fully loaded trucks need up to 525 feet to stop from 65 mph – nearly two football fields. When truck drivers follow too closely or fail to react to traffic slowdowns, devastating rear-end collisions result.

Tire Blowouts

Floyd County’s hot summers and long stretches of highway create perfect conditions for tire blowouts. When a steer tire (front tire) blows out, the driver can lose control completely.

Brake Failures

Poor maintenance leads to brake failures, especially on long downhill grades. The rolling terrain in parts of Floyd County creates conditions where brake failures become particularly dangerous.

Cargo Spills

Improperly secured agricultural products, livestock, or equipment can shift or spill, causing accidents. Floyd County’s agricultural economy means cargo securement violations are a particular concern.

Fatigue-Related Crashes

Long hauls through West Texas create fatigue risks. Drivers pushing beyond federal hours-of-service limits cause many of the most serious accidents we see in Floyd County.

Who Is Liable for Your Floyd County Truck Accident?

Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple liable parties. We investigate every potential defendant to maximize your recovery:

1. The Truck Driver

Direct negligence like speeding, distraction, fatigue, or impairment makes the driver personally liable. We examine:

• Hours of service violations
• Cell phone records
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training records
• Previous accident history

2. The Trucking Company

Under the legal 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: Failing to properly vet drivers
• Negligent training: Inadequate safety training
• Negligent supervision: Failing to monitor driver behavior
• Negligent maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep
• Negligent scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service

3. Cargo Owners and Shippers

The company that owns the cargo may be liable if:

• They provided improper loading instructions
• Failed to disclose hazardous cargo
• Required overweight loading
• Pressured the carrier to meet unsafe deadlines

4. Cargo Loading Companies

Third-party loading companies can be liable for:

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

5. Truck and Parts Manufacturers

Defective equipment causes accidents. We investigate:

• Brake system failures
• Tire defects
• Steering component failures
• Electronic stability control malfunctions
• Underride guard failures

6. Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers can be liable for:

• Negligent repairs
• Failure to identify safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard parts

7. Freight Brokers

Brokers who arrange transportation can be liable for:

• Negligent carrier selection
• Failure to verify safety records
• Selecting carriers with poor CSA scores

8. Government Entities

In limited cases, government agencies may share liability for:

• Dangerous road design
• Poor road maintenance
• Inadequate signage
• Failure to install safety barriers

The Evidence That Wins Floyd County Trucking Cases

Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. We move just as fast to preserve evidence before it disappears.

Electronic Evidence (Must Be Preserved Immediately)

• ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, throttle position, and fault codes
• ELD Records: Proves hours of service violations and fatigue
• GPS/Telematics Data: Shows route, speed, and location history
• Cell Phone Records: Proves distracted driving
• Dashcam Footage: Video evidence of the accident
• Dispatch Records: Shows schedule pressure and communication

Driver Records

• Driver Qualification File: Proves negligent hiring
• Hours of Service Logs: Shows fatigue violations
• Drug and Alcohol Test Results: Proves impairment
• Previous Employment Records: Shows pattern of violations
• Training Records: Proves inadequate training

Vehicle Records

• Maintenance Records: Shows deferred maintenance
• Inspection Reports: Documents known defects
• Pre-Trip Inspection Reports: Proves driver negligence
• Tire Records: Shows age and maintenance history
• Brake Adjustment Records: Proves brake failures

Company Records

• Safety Policies: Shows corporate negligence
• CSA Scores: Proves pattern of safety violations
• Accident Register: Shows history of similar accidents
• Insurance Policies: Determines available coverage

How We Prove the Trucking Company Was Negligent

To win your case, we must prove four elements of negligence:

1. Duty: The trucking company had a legal duty to operate safely
2. Breach: They violated that duty through negligent actions
3. Causation: Their negligence caused your accident
4. Damages: You suffered actual harm as a result

Our investigation focuses on proving breach of duty through:

FMCSA Regulation Violations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399) establish the standard of care for trucking companies. Common violations we find in Floyd County cases include:

• 49 CFR § 395.3 – Hours of Service Violations: Driving beyond 11-hour limit or 14-hour duty window
• 49 CFR § 392.3 – Fatigued Driving: Operating while impaired by fatigue
• 49 CFR § 392.4/5 – Drug and Alcohol Violations: Operating under the influence
• 49 CFR § 393.40-55 – Brake System Deficiencies: Poor brake maintenance
• 49 CFR § 393.75 – Tire Violations: Worn or improperly inflated tires
• 49 CFR § 393.100-136 – Cargo Securement Violations: Improperly secured loads
• 49 CFR § 396.3 – Maintenance Violations: Failure to maintain vehicles properly

Negligent Hiring, Training, and Supervision

We investigate whether the trucking company:

• Failed to conduct proper background checks
• Hired drivers with poor safety records
• Provided inadequate safety training
• Failed to monitor driver performance
• Ignored pattern of violations

Corporate Negligence

We examine whether the company:

• Prioritized profits over safety
• Had a culture of rule-breaking
• Encouraged drivers to falsify logs
• Pressured drivers to meet unrealistic schedules
• Ignored known safety violations

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Floyd County Trucking Accidents

The sheer size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles means trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

• Mild TBI: Concussions with temporary symptoms
• Moderate TBI: Extended unconsciousness and cognitive deficits
• Severe TBI: Permanent brain damage requiring lifelong care

Spinal Cord Injuries

• Paraplegia: Paralysis from the waist down
• Quadriplegia: Paralysis of all four limbs
• Incomplete Injuries: Partial loss of function

Amputations

• Traumatic amputations at the scene
• Surgical amputations due to severe damage
• Phantom limb pain and psychological trauma

Severe Burns

• Fuel fires from ruptured tanks
• Chemical burns from hazmat cargo
• Thermal burns from friction or explosions

Internal Organ Damage

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

Multiple Fractures

• Skull fractures
• Spinal fractures
• Pelvic fractures
• Rib fractures

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident takes a loved one, we help families pursue wrongful death claims for:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish
• Funeral expenses
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

How Much Is Your Floyd County Trucking Accident Case Worth?

Case values depend on many factors, but trucking accident cases typically command higher settlements than car accidents because:

1. Higher Insurance Limits: Federal law requires trucking companies to carry $750,000 to $5,000,000 in liability insurance
2. Multiple Liable Parties: More defendants means more insurance coverage
3. Catastrophic Injuries: Truck accidents cause more severe injuries
4. Punitive Damages: Available when companies act with gross negligence

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Property damage
• Life care costs for permanent injuries
• Home and vehicle modifications

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement
• Loss of consortium (impact on marriage)

Punitive Damages

Awarded when the trucking company acted with:

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

Recent Trucking Verdicts and Settlements in Texas

While every case is unique, recent verdicts demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

• $730 Million: Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (2021) – Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman
• $150 Million: Werner Settlement (2022) – Two children killed on I-30
• $90 Million: Houston trucking verdict (2022)
• $37.5 Million: Texas trucking verdict (2024)
• $35.5 Million: Texas family injured in truck accident
• $35 Million: Fort Worth trucking verdict (2025) – Largest in Tarrant County

These verdicts show that Texas juries are willing to hold trucking companies accountable for negligence. Insurance companies know this – which gives us leverage in settlement negotiations.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Floyd County Trucking Case

1. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting trucking companies since 1998. We know their tactics because we’ve beaten them in court.

2. 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, minimize, and deny claims – and now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

3. Federal Court Experience

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

4. Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions for Floyd County families devastated by trucking accidents. Our track record speaks for itself.

5. Local Knowledge of Floyd County

We know the local roads, courts, and trucking patterns that affect your case. From the agricultural haulers on Highway 70 to the interstate freight on US 62, we understand the unique risks in Floyd County.

6. Spanish Language Services

Hablamos Español. Our bilingual staff can communicate directly with Spanish-speaking clients without interpreters.

7. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation.

What to Expect When You Work With Attorney911

Step 1: Free Consultation

We’ll evaluate your case at no cost and explain your legal options. There’s no obligation – just answers.

Step 2: Immediate Evidence Preservation

We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve black box data, ELD records, and other critical evidence.

Step 3: Comprehensive Investigation

We gather all evidence, interview witnesses, and build your case. This includes:

• Obtaining ECM/black box data
• Subpoenaing driver qualification files
• Reviewing maintenance records
• Analyzing hours of service logs
• Consulting accident reconstruction experts

Step 4: Medical Care Coordination

We help you get the treatment you need, even if you don’t have insurance. We work with Floyd County medical providers who treat on a lien basis.

Step 5: Demand Letter and Negotiation

We send a comprehensive demand to the insurance companies, calculating all your damages. We negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement.

Step 6: Litigation (If Necessary)

If the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we file a lawsuit and take your case to court. We’re prepared to go to trial if that’s what it takes to get you justice.

Step 7: Resolution

The majority of cases settle before trial. We work to resolve your case as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Floyd County Trucking Accident FAQ

What should I do immediately after a truck accident in Floyd County?

Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene, get the truck driver’s information, don’t give statements to insurance adjusters, and call Attorney911 immediately.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a Floyd County truck accident?

Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. However, you should contact an attorney immediately – evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases.

Who can I sue after a truck accident?

Multiple parties may be liable, including the truck driver, trucking company, cargo owner, loading company, maintenance company, manufacturer, and others.

How much is my case worth?

Case values depend on injury severity, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and available insurance coverage. Trucking cases typically command higher settlements than car accidents.

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. 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 says I was at fault?

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.

How long will my case take?

Simple cases may resolve in 6-12 months. Complex cases with severe injuries can take 1-3 years. We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Do I need to pay anything upfront?

No. We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation.

What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?

Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

Can I still recover if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Yes. Both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships to ensure you can recover from all responsible parties.

What if I was injured in a hit-and-run truck accident?

You may still have options through your own uninsured motorist coverage. We can help you navigate these complex claims.

How do I prove the truck driver was fatigued?

We use ELD data, hours of service logs, dispatch records, and other evidence to prove fatigue violations.

What if the truck’s brakes failed?

Brake failures are often the result of poor maintenance. We investigate maintenance records and inspect the vehicle to prove negligence.

Can I recover if I was partially at fault?

Yes, as long as you were less than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

We investigate all available insurance policies and assets to ensure you can still recover compensation.

How are future medical expenses calculated?

We work with medical experts and life care planners to calculate the present value of all your future medical needs.

Don’t Wait – Evidence Disappears Fast

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Floyd County trucking accident, call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. Our Floyd County trucking accident attorneys offer free consultations and work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Every hour you wait, evidence disappears. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witness memories fade. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is working right now to protect their interests. You need someone working just as hard to protect yours.

We know Floyd County’s roads, courts, and trucking patterns. We know how to win. Call us today.

“They treated me like FAMILY, not just another case number.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

“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

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.