18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Lockney, Texas | Attorney911

When an 18-Wheeler Changes Your Life in an Instant

The impact was catastrophic. 80,000 pounds of steel against your sedan. One moment you’re driving down US-70 or FM 378 in Lockney, Texas. The next, an 18-wheeler is jackknifing across three lanes, and your life has changed forever. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in Lockney, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a fighter who understands the unique challenges of Floyd County trucking corridors and knows how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across the Texas Panhandle for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. We know Lockney’s highways, from the grain elevators on the outskirts of town to the agricultural transport routes that feed our community. This local knowledge, combined with our deep understanding of FMCSA regulations, gives us a powerful advantage when building your case.

Why Lockney Trucking Accidents Are Different

Lockney isn’t just another dot on the Texas map—it’s a community where agriculture and transportation intersect. Our local roads see a unique mix of traffic:

Grain trucks hauling harvests from Floyd County farms
Livestock trailers transporting cattle to processing facilities
Fuel tankers servicing local gas stations and agricultural operations
Long-haul trucks passing through on US-70 between Plainview and Matador
Heavy equipment transporters moving farm machinery

The trucking corridors serving Lockney present specific dangers that require specialized legal knowledge:

US-70 Corridor: This major east-west route carries significant truck traffic between Plainview and Matador. The stretch through Lockney sees a mix of local agricultural trucks and long-haul freight, creating dangerous conditions when local drivers unfamiliar with highway speeds encounter large trucks making sudden maneuvers.

FM 378 and Local Farm Roads: These rural routes are narrow, often poorly maintained, and designed for local traffic—not 80,000-pound trucks. The combination of high-speed truck traffic and slow-moving farm equipment creates hazardous conditions, especially during planting and harvest seasons.

Lockney’s Grain Elevators: The local agricultural economy means heavy truck traffic around grain storage facilities. These areas see frequent truck turnarounds, loading operations, and congestion that can lead to accidents.

Seasonal Traffic Patterns: Harvest seasons bring increased truck traffic that local roads aren’t designed to handle. This seasonal surge creates additional risks for Lockney residents.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents

Every year, thousands of 18-wheeler accidents occur on Texas highways. But when it happens in Lockney, the consequences are often more severe due to our rural location and limited emergency response resources. The physics of these crashes make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception.

Size and Weight Disparity

Fully loaded 18-wheeler: Up to 80,000 pounds
Average passenger car: 3,500-4,000 pounds
The truck is 20-25 times heavier than your vehicle

Impact Force

The energy released in a collision increases exponentially with speed. An 80,000-pound truck traveling at 65 mph carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a typical passenger car. This energy transfers to the smaller vehicle in a crash, often with devastating consequences.

Stopping Distance

18-wheeler at 65 mph: Needs approximately 525 feet to stop (nearly two football fields)
Car at 65 mph: Needs approximately 300 feet to stop
This 40% longer stopping distance means trucks cannot avoid obstacles as quickly as cars

When these massive vehicles crash on Lockney’s roads, the results are often tragic:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): The extreme forces cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull
Spinal Cord Injuries: Often resulting in paralysis from the waist down (paraplegia) or all four limbs (quadriplegia)
Amputations: Crushing forces or entrapment may require surgical removal of limbs
Severe Burns: Fuel tank ruptures and fires are common in high-speed crashes
Internal Organ Damage: Liver lacerations, spleen ruptures, kidney damage, and internal bleeding
Wrongful Death: Too often, these accidents claim lives

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Lockney

Understanding what causes trucking accidents is crucial to building a strong case. In Lockney, we see several recurring factors:

Driver Fatigue

Truck drivers are under immense pressure to meet delivery deadlines. Federal regulations limit driving time, but many drivers violate these rules to make more money. FMCSA hours-of-service regulations are designed to prevent fatigue-related accidents:

11-Hour Driving Limit: Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
14-Hour On-Duty Window: Cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
30-Minute Break Rule: Mandatory break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days, then 34-hour restart required

Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. When drivers violate these rules, they’re too tired to react safely to changing road conditions.

Distracted Driving

Despite federal regulations prohibiting hand-held phone use (49 CFR § 392.82), many truck drivers continue to text, use GPS, or communicate with dispatch while driving. The distraction takes their eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, and mind off driving.

Improper Maintenance

Trucking companies often defer maintenance to save money. Common maintenance failures include:

Brake failures: Worn brake pads, improper adjustment, or air brake system leaks
Tire blowouts: Underinflated tires, worn treads, or overloaded vehicles
Lighting failures: Non-functioning headlights, brake lights, or turn signals
Steering failures: Worn components or improper lubrication

Improper Loading

Cargo that isn’t properly secured can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable and increasing the risk of rollover accidents. Federal cargo securement regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) specify how cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent:

Leaking, spilling, blowing, or falling from the vehicle
Shifting that affects vehicle stability or maneuverability
Blocking the driver’s view or interfering with operation

Driver Inexperience

Many trucking companies hire inexperienced drivers to meet demand. These drivers may not know how to handle emergency situations or may be unfamiliar with rural road conditions like those in Floyd County.

Poor Weather Conditions

Lockney’s location in the Texas Panhandle means we experience a range of weather conditions that can make driving hazardous:

Winter ice: Sudden freezing can create black ice on roads
High winds: Common in the Panhandle, can cause high-profile trailers to tip
Dust storms: Reduce visibility dramatically
Heavy rain: Creates hydroplaning risks
Fog: Common in low-lying areas, especially in early morning

Road Conditions

Lockney’s rural location means our roads often don’t receive the same level of maintenance as urban areas:

Narrow lanes: Many farm-to-market roads weren’t designed for large trucks
Poor lighting: Rural roads often lack adequate street lighting
Uneven surfaces: Potholes and uneven pavement create hazards
Limited shoulders: Little room for emergency maneuvers
Agricultural equipment: Slow-moving tractors and combines create unexpected obstacles

What to Do Immediately After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Lockney

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Lockney, what you do in the first 48 hours can make or break your case. Evidence disappears quickly in these cases, and trucking companies have rapid-response teams working to protect their interests.

Step 1: Call 911 and Report the Accident

Even if you think your injuries are minor, call 911 immediately. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents, and internal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. The Lockney Police Department or Floyd County Sheriff’s Office will create an official accident report, which is crucial evidence.

Step 2: Seek Medical Attention

Go to the hospital immediately—even if you feel okay. Many serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away. Lockney Medical Clinic and Covenant Hospital Plainview can provide initial evaluation, but for serious injuries, you may need to be transported to University Medical Center in Lubbock.

Documenting your injuries immediately creates a clear link between the accident and your medical condition. This documentation is essential for your case.

Step 3: Document the Scene

If you’re physically able, document everything at the accident scene:

Take photos of all vehicle damage, including close-ups of specific damage points
Photograph the accident scene from multiple angles, including skid marks, debris patterns, and road conditions
Take photos of your injuries
Get the truck’s license plate number and DOT number (usually on the truck door)
Get the trucking company name and logo
Get the driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
Get contact information from any witnesses
Note the weather and road conditions at the time of the accident

Step 4: Do NOT Give a Recorded Statement

Insurance adjusters will contact you quickly after the accident. They work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say can and will be used to minimize your claim. Politely decline to give a recorded statement and tell them you’ll have your attorney contact them.

Step 5: Contact an 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney Immediately

Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 as soon as possible. We’ll send a spoliation letter within hours to preserve critical evidence before it’s destroyed. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days, dashcam footage may be deleted within a week, and maintenance records can disappear.

Why You Need a Lockney 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer

Trucking accident cases are fundamentally different from car accident cases. They involve complex federal regulations, multiple potentially liable parties, and much higher insurance limits. An experienced Lockney trucking accident attorney can:

Preserve Critical Evidence

We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve:

ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, throttle position, and other critical data
ELD Records: Proves hours-of-service compliance or violations
Driver Qualification File: Shows if the driver was properly vetted and trained
Maintenance Records: Reveals if the truck was properly maintained
Dispatch Records: Shows if the company pressured the driver to violate regulations
Cell Phone Records: Proves if the driver was distracted
Dashcam Footage: Provides visual evidence of the accident

Identify All Liable Parties

In trucking cases, multiple parties may be responsible:

The truck driver: For negligent operation, fatigue, distraction, or impairment
The trucking company: For negligent hiring, training, supervision, or maintenance
The cargo owner: For improper loading instructions or hazardous material disclosure
The loading company: For improper cargo securement
The truck manufacturer: For defective components
The parts manufacturer: For defective brakes, tires, or other components
The maintenance company: For negligent repairs
The freight broker: For negligent carrier selection
Government entities: For dangerous road conditions

Navigate Complex Regulations

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399) govern every aspect of commercial trucking. These regulations cover:

Driver qualifications (Part 391)
Driving rules (Part 392)
Vehicle safety and cargo securement (Part 393)
Hours of service (Part 395)
Inspection and maintenance (Part 396)

Proving violations of these regulations is often key to establishing negligence.

Deal with Insurance Companies

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical drivers—often $750,000 to $5 million or more. However, their insurance companies will fight aggressively to minimize your claim. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows all their tactics from the inside.

Calculate Full Damages

We work with medical experts, vocational experts, and economists to calculate:

Medical expenses: Past, present, and future
Lost wages: Income lost due to injury and recovery
Lost earning capacity: Reduction in future earning ability
Pain and suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress
Loss of enjoyment: Inability to participate in activities you once enjoyed
Disfigurement: Scarring and visible injuries
Punitive damages: In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct

Lockney-Specific Considerations for 18-Wheeler Accidents

Limited Emergency Response Resources

Lockney’s rural location means emergency response times can be longer than in urban areas. This can affect:

Medical treatment delays: Longer transport times to trauma centers
Evidence preservation: Accident scenes may remain intact longer without immediate cleanup
Witness availability: Witnesses may leave the scene before police arrive

Agricultural Trucking Regulations

Many trucks operating in Lockney are agricultural vehicles that may be exempt from certain federal regulations. However, these exemptions don’t eliminate all safety requirements. We understand the nuances of agricultural trucking laws and how they apply to your case.

Seasonal Traffic Patterns

Lockney’s agricultural economy creates seasonal traffic patterns that affect accident risks:

Harvest seasons: Increased truck traffic hauling grain and other crops
Planting seasons: Heavy equipment transport on rural roads
Livestock shipping: Increased livestock trailer traffic

Local Court System Familiarity

As Lockney trucking accident attorneys, we’re familiar with the Floyd County court system, including:

Floyd County Courthouse: Where your case would likely be filed
Local judges and their preferences: Understanding judicial tendencies helps us tailor our approach
Court procedures and timelines: We know how to navigate the local legal system efficiently

Jury Considerations

Lockney juries have unique perspectives shaped by our community’s values:

Hardworking ethos: Juries respect those who work hard and take responsibility
Community values: Understanding local attitudes helps us present your case effectively
Personal connections: Many jurors may know someone affected by a trucking accident

The Attorney911 Advantage

When you choose Attorney911 for your Lockney 18-wheeler accident case, you’re getting more than just legal representation—you’re getting a team that fights like your future depends on it, because it does.

25+ Years of Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s handled hundreds of trucking accident cases and knows how to build a winning strategy.

Federal Court Experience

We’re admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is crucial for interstate trucking cases that may involve federal regulations or multiple jurisdictions.

Insurance Defense Insider

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. He uses that insider knowledge to maximize your recovery.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for trucking accident victims, 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

Comprehensive Investigation

We leave no stone unturned in building your case:

Accident reconstruction: We work with experts to determine exactly what happened
Electronic data analysis: We obtain and analyze ECM, ELD, and GPS data
Regulatory compliance review: We identify all FMCSA violations
Witness interviews: We track down and interview all witnesses
Medical record review: We work with medical experts to document your injuries

Aggressive Negotiation and Litigation

We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This aggressive approach creates leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready to fight for you in court if necessary.

Personalized Attention

Unlike large firms where you’re just a case number, we treat every client like family. You’ll have direct access to your attorney, and we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This means you can afford top-quality legal representation regardless of your financial situation.

Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Lockney

Jackknife Accidents

A jackknife occurs when the trailer and cab skid in opposite directions, with the trailer folding at an angle similar to a pocket knife. The trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often sweeping across multiple lanes of traffic.

Common on Lockney’s roads because:

Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
Speeding on curves or when approaching intersections
Empty or lightly loaded trailers are more prone to swing
Improperly loaded cargo can destabilize the truck

Jackknife accidents are especially dangerous on two-lane roads like FM 378, where the trailer can block both directions of traffic.

Rollover Accidents

Rollovers occur when an 18-wheeler tips onto its side or roof. Due to the truck’s high center of gravity and massive weight, rollovers are among the most catastrophic trucking accidents.

Common in Lockney due to:

Speeding on curves, especially on rural roads not designed for large trucks
Taking turns too sharply at excessive speed
Improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo
Liquid cargo “slosh” that shifts the center of gravity
Overcorrection after tire blowout or lane departure

Rollover accidents often result in secondary crashes when other vehicles collide with the overturned truck or its spilled cargo.

Underride Collisions

An underride collision occurs when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of an 18-wheeler and slides underneath the trailer. The trailer height often causes the smaller vehicle’s passenger compartment to be sheared off at windshield level.

Types:

Rear underride: Vehicle strikes the back of the trailer
Side underride: Vehicle impacts the side of the trailer during lane changes or turns

Common in Lockney because:

Many local trucks may not have proper underride guards
Poor lighting on rural roads makes trucks harder to see at night
Sudden stops by trucks at intersections or railroad crossings

Underride accidents are among the most deadly types of truck crashes, often resulting in decapitation or catastrophic head and neck injuries.

Tire Blowout Accidents

Tire blowouts can cause the driver to lose control of the truck, leading to jackknife, rollover, or multi-vehicle accidents.

Common in Lockney due to:

Extreme temperature variations in the Texas Panhandle
Long distances between service stations on rural roads
Deferred maintenance by trucking companies
Overloading beyond tire capacity
Road debris on less-maintained rural roads

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake failures prevent the driver from stopping in time to avoid a collision.

Common in Lockney because:

Long downhill grades on rural roads can cause brake fade
Deferred maintenance by trucking companies
Improper brake adjustments
Air brake system leaks or failures

Brake failure accidents often result in severe rear-end collisions, especially when trucks are unable to stop on downhill grades.

Cargo Spill Accidents

Cargo spills occur when improperly secured cargo falls from a truck or shifts during transit, causing the truck to become unstable.

Common in Lockney due to:

Agricultural products not properly secured
Livestock trailers with inadequate containment
Equipment transport without proper blocking and bracing
Failure to re-inspect cargo during long trips

Cargo spills can create hazards for other drivers and may result in multi-vehicle accidents.

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone” Accidents)

Blind spot accidents occur when an 18-wheeler changes lanes or maneuvers without seeing a vehicle in one of its four major blind spots (No-Zones).

The Four 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 the cab door backward
Right Side No-Zone: Extends from the cab door backward, much larger than the left side

Common in Lockney because:

Rural roads often have no shoulders, forcing vehicles into blind spots
Local drivers may not be aware of truck blind spots
Trucks making wide turns at intersections can sweep through blind spots

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play” Accidents)

Wide turn accidents occur when an 18-wheeler swings wide (often to the left) before making a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing or striking the vehicle that entered the gap.

Common in Lockney because:

Many local intersections were not designed for large trucks
Local drivers may not be familiar with how trucks turn
Agricultural equipment often requires wide turns

Proving Negligence in Your Lockney 18-Wheeler Accident Case

To recover compensation, we must prove that the trucking company or driver was negligent. This requires demonstrating:

Duty of Care: The trucking company and driver owed you a duty to operate safely
Breach of Duty: They failed to meet that duty through negligent actions or inactions
Causation: Their breach of duty caused your accident
Damages: You suffered actual damages as a result

Common Forms of Negligence in Trucking Cases

Negligent Hiring

Trucking companies must properly vet drivers before hiring them. Negligent hiring occurs when a company hires a driver with:

A history of traffic violations
Previous accidents
A suspended or revoked CDL
A criminal record
A history of drug or alcohol abuse
Inadequate experience for the type of trucking

We subpoena driver qualification files to identify negligent hiring practices.

Negligent Training

Trucking companies must provide adequate training on:

Safe driving techniques
Hours of service regulations
Cargo securement
Emergency procedures
Vehicle inspection
Hazardous materials handling (if applicable)

Inadequate training can lead to accidents that the company may be liable for.

Negligent Supervision

Trucking companies must monitor their drivers’ performance and compliance with regulations. Negligent supervision occurs when companies:

Fail to monitor hours of service compliance
Ignore repeated violations
Don’t address safety concerns
Allow drivers to operate despite known issues

Negligent Maintenance

Trucking companies must maintain their vehicles in safe operating condition. Negligent maintenance occurs when companies:

Defer necessary repairs
Use substandard parts
Fail to conduct required inspections
Ignore known safety issues
Don’t train mechanics properly

Hours of Service Violations

Federal regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate to prevent fatigue-related accidents. Common violations include:

Driving more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
Driving beyond the 14th consecutive hour on duty
Failing to take required 30-minute breaks
Exceeding weekly driving limits
Falsifying logbooks or ELD records

Distracted Driving

Despite federal regulations prohibiting hand-held phone use, many drivers continue to engage in distracting activities:

Texting while driving
Using GPS devices
Eating or drinking
Reading maps or paperwork
Adjusting the radio
Talking on the phone (even hands-free)

Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious violation. Federal regulations prohibit:

Using alcohol within 4 hours of going on duty
Using alcohol while on duty
Operating with a blood alcohol concentration of .04 or higher
Using illegal drugs
Using prescription or over-the-counter medications that impair driving

Improper Loading

Cargo must be properly secured to prevent shifting that can destabilize the vehicle. Improper loading includes:

Inadequate tiedowns
Unbalanced load distribution
Overloading beyond vehicle capacity
Failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats
Not re-inspecting cargo during long trips

The Legal Process for Your Lockney 18-Wheeler Accident Case

Step 1: Free Consultation

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

Review the details of your accident
Explain your legal rights and options
Answer your questions
Provide an initial assessment of your case

Step 2: Investigation

If we take your case, we’ll immediately begin a comprehensive investigation:

Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
Obtain police reports and accident scene photos
Interview witnesses
Obtain and analyze electronic data (ECM, ELD, GPS)
Review driver qualification files
Examine maintenance records
Consult with accident reconstruction experts
Document your injuries and medical treatment

Step 3: Medical Treatment and Documentation

We’ll help you get the medical treatment you need and document your injuries thoroughly. This may include:

Emergency room visits
Specialist consultations
Physical therapy
Diagnostic tests (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans)
Psychological counseling
Future medical care planning

Step 4: Demand Letter

Once we’ve gathered all the evidence and documented your damages, we’ll send a comprehensive demand letter to the trucking company’s insurance carrier. This letter will detail:

The facts of the accident
The negligence of the trucking company and driver
Your injuries and damages
The compensation you’re seeking

Step 5: Negotiation

We’ll negotiate aggressively with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement. Our goal is to resolve your case as quickly as possible while maximizing your compensation.

Step 6: Litigation (If Necessary)

If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to court. We’ll file a lawsuit and aggressively pursue your claim through the legal system.

Step 7: Resolution

Your case will be resolved either through:

Settlement: The insurance company agrees to pay fair compensation
Verdict: A judge or jury decides the case in your favor
Appeals: If necessary, we’ll handle any appeals process

Step 8: Compensation

Once your case is resolved, we’ll ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. This may include:

Payment of medical bills
Reimbursement for lost wages
Compensation for pain and suffering
Payment for future medical care
Other damages as determined by your case

Why Lockney Residents Trust Attorney911

We’re Lockney’s Trucking Accident Lawyers

We’re not just Texas attorneys—we’re Lockney attorneys. We understand the unique challenges of our community, from the agricultural economy to the rural road conditions. When you choose Attorney911, you’re choosing a firm that knows Lockney inside and out.

We Treat You Like Family

At Attorney911, we treat every client like family. We understand the devastating impact a trucking accident can have on your life, and we’re committed to fighting for you every step of the way.

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

We Fight for Maximum Compensation

We don’t settle for less than you deserve. Our goal is to maximize your compensation so you can focus on your recovery without financial stress.

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

We Take Cases Other Firms Reject

Many firms turn away cases they consider too difficult or not lucrative enough. We believe everyone deserves quality legal representation, regardless of their case’s complexity.

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

We Solve Cases Faster Than Competitors

While some firms let cases drag on for years, we work efficiently to resolve your case as quickly as possible without sacrificing quality.

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

We Offer Direct Attorney Access

At many firms, you’ll only speak with paralegals or case managers. At Attorney911, you’ll have direct access to your attorney throughout your case.

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

We Speak Spanish

Many trucking accident victims in Lockney speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

“Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.”
— Celia Dominguez, Attorney911 Client

What Our Lockney Clients Say

At Attorney911, we’re proud of the relationships we’ve built with our clients. Here’s what some of them have to say about their experience with our firm:

“I was rear-ended and the team got right to work… I also got a very nice settlement.”
— MONGO SLADE

“One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
— Donald Wilcox

“I lost everything… my car was at a total loss, and because of Attorney Manginello and my case worker Leonor, 1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.”
— Kiimarii Yup

“They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer… Ralph reached out personally.”
— Dame Haskett

“You are NOT just a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris

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

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

“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day… it only took 6 months amazing.”
— Chavodrian Miles

“Leonor is the best!!! She was able to assist me with my case within 6 months.”
— Tymesha Galloway

“When I felt I had no hope or direction, Leonor reached out to me… She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.”
— Stephanie Hernandez

“One of Houston’s Great Men Trae Tha Truth has recommended this law firm. So if he is vouching for them then I know they do good work.”
— Jacqueline Johnson

The Clock Is Ticking on Your Lockney 18-Wheeler Accident Case

Texas law gives you only two years from the date of your accident to file a lawsuit. But waiting even a few months can seriously harm your case. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking accident cases:

Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days
Dashcam footage is often deleted within a week
Witness memories fade within weeks
Physical evidence may be repaired or destroyed
Maintenance records can disappear

The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can send spoliation letters to preserve this critical evidence. We’ve seen too many cases where victims waited too long and lost their chance to recover fair compensation.

What to Expect When You Call Attorney911

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, here’s what will happen:

Immediate Response: We answer trucking accident calls 24/7. You’ll speak with a real person, not an answering service.
Free Consultation: We’ll listen to your story and provide an initial assessment of your case at no cost.
No Pressure: We’ll answer your questions and explain your options without pressuring you to hire us.
Immediate Action: If you choose to hire us, we’ll send spoliation letters within hours to preserve critical evidence.
Personalized Attention: You’ll be assigned a dedicated legal team that will keep you informed every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lockney 18-Wheeler Accidents

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Lockney?

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Lockney, take these steps immediately if you’re able:

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 at 1-888-ATTY-911

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. Lockney Medical Clinic and Covenant Hospital Plainview can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

What information should I collect at the truck 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 Lockney?

Multiple parties may be liable in trucking accidents:

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)

We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

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

Usually YES. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are responsible 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.

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 an airplane’s black box. 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. When drivers violate these rules, they’re too tired to react safely to changing road conditions.

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 in Lockney?

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 Lockney?

Case values depend on many factors:

Severity of injuries
Medical expenses (past and future)
Lost wages 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. We’ve seen verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions.

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

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

Time limits apply—contact us immediately to protect your rights.

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

The statute of limitations in Texas is two 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.

Don’t Let the Trucking Company Win

Right now, the trucking company that caused your accident has a team of lawyers and insurance adjusters working to protect their interests. They’re gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and building their defense—all while you’re dealing with injuries, medical bills, and the emotional trauma of the accident.

You deserve someone on your side who will fight just as hard for you. At Attorney911, we have the experience, resources, and determination to take on the trucking companies and their insurers. We know their tactics, we know the regulations, and we know how to win.

Call Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Lockney, Texas, don’t wait. Every hour that passes puts your case at risk. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation.

We’re available 24/7 to take your call. When you contact us:

You’ll speak with a real person, not an answering service
We’ll listen to your story and answer your questions
We’ll provide an honest assessment of your case
We’ll explain your legal options
If you choose to hire us, we’ll send spoliation letters immediately to preserve critical evidence

Remember: Evidence disappears fast in trucking accident cases. The sooner you call, the stronger your case will be.

Hablamos Español

At Attorney911, we understand that many trucking accident victims in Lockney speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

“Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.”
— Celia Dominguez, Attorney911 Client

If you prefer to speak Spanish, call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 and ask for Lupe Peña. We’re here to help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Lockney’s Trucking Accident Lawyers

When an 18-wheeler changes your life in an instant, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a fighter who understands the unique challenges of Lockney trucking accidents. At Attorney911, we have the experience, resources, and determination to take on the trucking companies and their insurers.

We know Lockney’s roads, we understand the local economy, and we’re committed to fighting for our community. When you choose Attorney911, you’re choosing a firm that will treat you like family and fight like your future depends on it—because it does.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free consultation. The call is free, the consultation is free, and you pay nothing unless we win your case. Don’t let the trucking company win—fight back with Attorney911.