18-Wheeler Accidents in Garza County: Your Complete Legal Guide
When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Your Life in an Instant
The impact is catastrophic. One moment you’re driving along US-380 or FM 669 in Garza County, the next an 18-wheeler is jackknifing across both lanes. The trailer swings into your path, and in that split second, everything changes. The force of 80,000 pounds of steel slamming into your sedan doesn’t just damage your vehicle – it can shatter lives, destroy families, and leave permanent physical and emotional scars.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident anywhere in Garza County – from Post to Justiceburg, from US-84 to the rural routes that crisscross this West Texas county – you need more than just medical attention. You need a legal team that understands the unique challenges of trucking cases in our region, knows how to preserve critical evidence before it disappears, and has the experience to fight the powerful trucking companies that will try to minimize your claim.
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas 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 Garza County’s trucking corridors, from the oil field traffic on FM 211 to the agricultural haulers on US-380, and we understand how to build cases that hold negligent trucking companies fully accountable.
Why Garza County 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different
Garza County presents unique challenges for truck accident victims:
- Oil Field Traffic: The Permian Basin extends into our region, bringing heavy oil field equipment and fatigued drivers working long hours
- Agricultural Haulers: Cotton, grain, and livestock trucks create seasonal traffic patterns that require specialized knowledge
- Rural Roads: Many accidents occur on FM routes where truck drivers may not adjust for local conditions
- Limited Medical Resources: Serious injuries often require transport to Lubbock or Midland, adding complexity to your medical care
- Local Courts: Cases may be heard in Garza County courts where we understand the judges, procedures, and local attitudes
The trucking companies know these challenges too – and they’ll use them against you if you don’t have experienced local representation.
The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents
Every year in Texas, over 5,000 people are killed or seriously injured in commercial truck crashes. In Garza County, where trucks outnumber passenger vehicles on many routes, the risk is even higher. The physics of these collisions make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception:
- A fully loaded 18-wheeler weighs 20-25 times more than your car
- At highway speeds, it carries 80 times the kinetic energy
- Stopping distance is 40% longer than passenger vehicles
- Trailers can swing unpredictably, blocking multiple lanes
When these massive vehicles collide with passenger cars, the results are often tragic:
Common Catastrophic Injuries in Garza County Truck Accidents
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI):
The violent forces of a truck collision can cause your brain to impact the inside of your skull, leading to:
- Mild TBI (concussion): Headaches, confusion, memory problems
- Moderate TBI: Extended unconsciousness, cognitive deficits
- Severe TBI: Permanent coma, lifelong disability
- Lifetime care costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+
Spinal Cord Injuries:
Damage to the spinal cord often results in permanent paralysis:
- Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
- Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
- Lifetime care costs: $1.1 million to $5 million+
Amputations:
Crushing injuries or severe burns may require surgical amputation of:
- Arms or legs
- Fingers or toes
- Prosthetic costs: $5,000 to $50,000 per device, with replacements needed throughout life
Severe Burns:
Fuel tank ruptures, hazmat spills, or electrical fires can cause:
- Third-degree burns requiring skin grafts
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Chronic pain and infection risks
Internal Organ Damage:
The force of impact can rupture or damage:
- Liver, spleen, kidneys
- Lungs (pneumothorax)
- Bowels and intestines
- Internal bleeding requiring emergency surgery
Wrongful Death:
When trucking accidents prove fatal, surviving family members may recover:
- Lost future income
- Loss of companionship and guidance
- Funeral expenses
- Punitive damages for gross negligence
The Trucking Company’s Playbook – And How We Counter It
Within hours of your accident, the trucking company’s rapid-response team springs into action. Their goals are simple:
- Protect their interests – not yours
- Minimize their liability – even if it means shifting blame to you
- Destroy or hide evidence – before you can get to it
- Make a lowball settlement offer – before you understand the full extent of your injuries
Their Tactics vs. Our Counter-Strategies
| Trucking Company Tactic | How They Do It | How We Counter |
|---|---|---|
| Quick Lowball Settlement Offers | Offer money within days while you’re still in shock | Never accept first offer – we calculate full future damages first |
| Denying or Minimizing Injuries | Claim your injuries aren’t serious or pre-existed | Obtain comprehensive medical documentation and expert testimony |
| Blaming the Victim | Claim you caused the accident or contributed to it | Investigate thoroughly with accident reconstruction experts |
| Delaying the Claims Process | Drag out negotiations hoping you’ll give up | File lawsuit to force discovery and set depositions |
| Using Recorded Statements Against You | Get you to say things that hurt your case | Advise clients NEVER to give statements without attorney present |
| “Pre-Existing Condition” Defense | Claim your injuries existed before the accident | Apply Texas “Eggshell Skull” doctrine – take plaintiff as found |
| “Gap in Treatment” Attacks | Use delays in treatment to argue injuries aren’t serious | Document all treatment and explain any gaps with medical records |
| Sending Surveillance Investigators | Follow you to catch you doing activities inconsistent with claimed injuries | Advise clients on appropriate conduct and expose unfair surveillance |
| Hiring “Independent” Medical Examiners | Use doctors who consistently find no serious injuries | Counter with client’s treating physicians and independent experts |
| Drowning You in Paperwork | Overwhelm you with complex legal documents | Handle all communications and explain everything in plain language |
Our Insider Advantage: Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working inside the system. He knows exactly how trucking companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims – because he used to do it. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for YOU.
The Critical Evidence That Disappears Fast
In 18-wheeler accident cases, evidence disappears faster than you might think. Trucking companies know this, and they count on victims not acting quickly enough to preserve critical information.
Evidence Preservation Timeline
| Evidence Type | Destruction Risk | What It Shows |
|---|---|---|
| ECM/Black Box Data | Overwrites in 30 days or with new driving events | Speed, braking, throttle position, following distance |
| ELD Data | May be retained only 6 months | Hours of service, driving time, GPS location |
| Dashcam Footage | Often deleted within 7-14 days | Actual accident footage, driver behavior |
| Surveillance Video | Business cameras typically overwrite in 7-30 days | Accident sequence, weather conditions |
| Witness Memory | Fades significantly within weeks | Independent accounts of what happened |
| Physical Evidence | Vehicle may be repaired, sold, or scrapped | Damage patterns, mechanical failures |
| Drug/Alcohol Tests | Must be conducted within specific windows | Impairment at time of accident |
What We Preserve Immediately
Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we send formal spoliation letters to:
- The trucking company
- Their insurance carrier
- Any third parties involved
- The truck driver
Our letters demand preservation of:
Electronic Data:
- Engine Control Module (ECM) data
- Event Data Recorder (EDR) downloads
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
- GPS and telematics data
- Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
- Dispatch communications and messaging
- Cell phone records and text messages
- Qualcomm or fleet management system data
Driver Records:
- Complete Driver Qualification File
- Employment application and resume
- Background check and driving record
- Previous employer verification
- Medical certification and exam records
- Drug and alcohol test results
- Training records and certifications
- Previous accident and violation history
- Performance reviews and disciplinary records
Vehicle Records:
- Maintenance and repair records
- Inspection reports (pre-trip, post-trip, annual)
- Out-of-service orders and repairs
- Tire records and replacement history
- Brake inspection and adjustment records
- Parts purchase and installation records
Company Records:
- Hours of service records for 6 months prior
- Dispatch logs and trip records
- Bills of lading and cargo documentation
- Insurance policies
- Safety policies and procedures
- Training curricula
- Hiring and supervision policies
Physical Evidence:
- The truck and trailer themselves
- Failed or damaged components
- Cargo and securement devices
- Tire remnants if blowout involved
The Federal Regulations That Prove Negligence
Commercial trucking is one of the most heavily regulated industries in America. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established comprehensive rules that trucking companies and drivers must follow. When they violate these regulations, it provides powerful evidence of negligence.
The 6 Critical Parts of FMCSA Regulations
| Part | Title | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| 390 | General Applicability | Defines who must comply with regulations |
| 391 | Driver Qualification | Who can drive, medical requirements, training |
| 392 | Driving Rules | Safe operation, fatigue, drugs, alcohol |
| 393 | Vehicle Safety | Equipment, cargo securement, brakes, lights |
| 395 | Hours of Service | How long drivers can drive, required rest |
| 396 | Inspection & Maintenance | Vehicle upkeep, inspections, records |
The Most Common Violations We Find in Garza County Cases
-
Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR § 395)
- Driving beyond 11-hour limit
- No 30-minute break after 8 hours driving
- Exceeding 14-hour on-duty window
- False log entries (lying about driving time)
-
Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR § 391)
- Hiring drivers without proper CDL
- Missing or incomplete Driver Qualification File
- No medical certification
- No background check
-
Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR § 396)
- Worn brakes not replaced
- Improper brake adjustments
- No pre-trip inspections
- Deferred maintenance to save costs
-
Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR § 393.100-136)
- Inadequate tiedowns
- Improper load distribution
- No blocking or bracing
- Overloaded vehicles
-
Drug and Alcohol Violations (49 CFR § 392.4-5)
- Operating under the influence
- Failed drug tests
- No pre-employment testing
- No random testing program
-
Distracted Driving Violations (49 CFR § 392.82)
- Texting while driving
- Using hand-held phones
- Dispatch communications while driving
How We Use FMCSA Violations to Build Your Case
When we identify FMCSA violations in your case, we use them to:
- Establish Negligence: Violations of federal safety regulations are strong evidence of negligence
- Prove Liability: Show the trucking company failed in their duty to operate safely
- Increase Damages: Pattern of violations can support punitive damage claims
- Negotiate from Strength: Insurance companies know juries take violations seriously
- Hold All Parties Accountable: Violations help identify all liable parties
Who’s Really Responsible? All the Parties We Can Hold Accountable
In most car accidents, only one driver is at fault. But in 18-wheeler accidents, multiple parties may share responsibility. We investigate every potential defendant to maximize your recovery.
The 10 Potentially Liable Parties
-
The Truck Driver
- Direct negligence: speeding, distraction, fatigue, impairment
- Violation of traffic laws
- Failure to conduct proper inspections
-
The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)
- Vicarious liability for driver’s actions
- Negligent hiring of unqualified drivers
- Negligent training and supervision
- Negligent maintenance of vehicles
- Pressuring drivers to violate HOS regulations
-
The Cargo Owner/Shipper
- Providing improper loading instructions
- Failing to disclose hazardous cargo
- Requiring overweight loads
- Pressuring for expedited delivery
-
The Cargo Loading Company
- Improper cargo securement
- Unbalanced load distribution
- Exceeding weight ratings
- Failure to train loaders
-
Truck and Trailer Manufacturer
- Design defects in vehicle systems
- Manufacturing defects in components
- Failure to warn of known dangers
-
Parts Manufacturer
- Defective brakes, tires, or steering components
- Substandard materials or workmanship
-
Maintenance Company
- Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
- Failure to identify critical safety issues
- Using wrong or substandard parts
-
Freight Broker
- Negligent selection of unsafe carriers
- Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
- Failure to check carrier safety records
-
Truck Owner (if different from carrier)
- Negligent entrustment of vehicle
- Failure to maintain owned equipment
- Knowledge of driver’s unfitness
-
Government Entity
- Dangerous road design
- Failure to maintain roads
- Inadequate signage
- Improper work zone setup
How We Identify All Liable Parties
Our investigation process includes:
-
Immediate Evidence Preservation
- Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
- Demand preservation of all electronic and physical evidence
-
FMCSA Records Review
- Obtain carrier’s complete safety record
- Review CSA scores and inspection history
- Identify pattern of violations
-
Driver Qualification File Subpoena
- Employment application and background check
- Driving record and previous employers
- Medical certification and drug test history
- Training documentation
-
Corporate Structure Analysis
- Identify all related companies
- Determine owner-operator vs. employee status
- Map insurance coverage for each entity
-
Accident Reconstruction
- Retain expert engineers
- Analyze ECM and ELD data
- Determine sequence of events
-
Defect Investigation
- Preserve failed components
- Research recall and complaint history
- Retain product liability experts
The Different Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Garza County
Not all truck accidents are the same. The type of accident often determines the injuries, liable parties, and legal strategies. We handle all types of commercial vehicle accidents in Garza County:
Jackknife Accidents
What Happens: The trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes
Common Causes:
- Sudden or improper braking
- Speeding on wet or icy roads
- Empty or lightly loaded trailers
- Brake system failures
- Driver inexperience
Evidence We Gather:
- Skid mark analysis showing trailer angle
- Brake inspection records
- Weather conditions at time of accident
- ELD data showing speed before braking
Rollover Accidents
What Happens: The truck tips onto its side or roof, often crushing nearby vehicles
Common Causes:
- Speeding on curves or ramps
- Improperly secured cargo shifting
- Liquid cargo “slosh” changing center of gravity
- Overcorrection after tire blowout
- Driver fatigue
Evidence We Gather:
- ECM data for speed through curve
- Cargo manifest and securement documentation
- Load distribution records
- Road geometry analysis
Underride Collisions
What Happens: Your vehicle slides underneath the trailer, often shearing off the roof
Types:
- Rear Underride: Striking the back of a trailer
- Side Underride: Impacting the side of a trailer during lane changes
Common Causes:
- Missing or inadequate underride guards
- Worn or damaged rear impact guards
- Sudden stops without warning
- Low visibility conditions
- Wide right turns cutting off traffic
Evidence We Gather:
- Underride guard inspection records
- Guard installation and certification
- Crash dynamics showing underride depth
- Visibility conditions at accident scene
Rear-End Collisions
What Happens: The truck strikes the back of your vehicle or vice versa
Common Causes:
- Following too closely
- Driver distraction
- Driver fatigue
- Brake failures
- Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns
Evidence We Gather:
- ECM data showing following distance
- ELD data for driver fatigue analysis
- Brake inspection records
- Dashcam footage
Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)
What Happens: The truck swings wide before a right turn, creating a gap that vehicles enter
Common Causes:
- Failure to signal turning intention
- Inadequate mirror checks
- Improper turn technique
- Driver inexperience
Evidence We Gather:
- Turn signal activation data
- Mirror condition and adjustment records
- Driver training records
- Surveillance footage
Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)
What Happens: The truck changes lanes without seeing your vehicle in its blind spot
The Four No-Zones:
- Front: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
- Rear: 30 feet behind the trailer
- Left Side: From cab door backward
- Right Side: From cab door backward (largest blind spot)
Evidence We Gather:
- Mirror condition and adjustment
- Lane change data from ECM
- Turn signal activation records
- Dashcam footage
Tire Blowout Accidents
What Happens: A tire failure causes the driver to lose control
Common Causes:
- Underinflated tires
- Overloaded vehicles
- Worn or aging tires
- Road debris punctures
- Manufacturing defects
Evidence We Gather:
- Tire maintenance records
- Tire age and wear documentation
- Vehicle weight records
- Failed tire for defect analysis
Brake Failure Accidents
What Happens: The truck’s braking system fails or underperforms
Common Causes:
- Worn brake pads not replaced
- Improper brake adjustments
- Air brake system leaks
- Overheated brakes on long descents
- Defective brake components
Evidence We Gather:
- Brake inspection and maintenance records
- Out-of-service inspection history
- ECM data showing brake effectiveness
- Post-crash brake system analysis
Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents
What Happens: Improperly secured cargo falls from the truck or shifts during transit
Types:
- Cargo Shift: Load moves, destabilizing the truck
- Cargo Spill: Load falls onto roadway
- Hazmat Spill: Hazardous materials leak or spill
Evidence We Gather:
- Cargo securement inspection photos
- Bill of lading and cargo manifest
- Loading company records
- Securement equipment used
Head-On Collisions
What Happens: The truck crosses into oncoming traffic
Common Causes:
- Driver fatigue causing lane departure
- Driver falling asleep at the wheel
- Driver distraction
- Impaired driving
- Medical emergency
Evidence We Gather:
- ELD data for HOS compliance
- ECM data showing lane departure
- Cell phone records
- Driver medical records
The Multi-Million Dollar Results That Are Possible
When trucking companies are held fully accountable, the results can be substantial. Juries across Texas have awarded massive verdicts when they see evidence of corporate negligence and disregard for safety.
Recent Major Trucking Verdicts in Texas
| Amount | Year | Location | Case Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| $730 Million | 2021 | Texas | Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman; $480M compensatory + $250M punitive |
| $150 Million | 2022 | Texas | Werner settlement – two children killed on I-30 |
| $37.5 Million | 2024 | Texas | Trucking verdict for catastrophic injuries |
| $35.5 Million | — | Texas | Family injured in truck accident |
| $35 Million | 2025 | Fort Worth | Largest verdict in Tarrant County history |
What These Verdicts Mean for Your Case
These verdicts demonstrate that:
- Juries will hold trucking companies accountable
- Catastrophic injuries warrant substantial compensation
- Punitive damages are available for gross negligence
- Insurance companies know juries are willing to award massive damages
At Attorney911, we’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims. While every case is different, our track record shows we know how to build cases that maximize compensation.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Garza County Trucking Case
With so many law firms advertising for truck accident cases, why should you choose us?
1. We’re Garza County Trucking Accident Specialists
While many firms handle car accidents, we focus specifically on commercial vehicle cases. This specialization means:
- We know the federal trucking regulations inside and out
- We understand how to preserve and analyze black box data
- We have experience with the major trucking companies operating in Garza County
- We know the local courts, judges, and procedures
2. Our Team Includes a Former Insurance Defense Attorney
Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm before joining our team. He knows:
- How insurance companies evaluate claims
- The tactics adjusters use to minimize payouts
- What makes them settle vs. what makes them fight
- How to counter their strategies
This insider knowledge gives our clients a significant advantage.
3. We Have Federal Court Experience
Many trucking cases involve federal regulations and can be filed in federal court. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, is admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This means:
- We can handle cases that cross state lines
- We’re prepared for complex federal litigation
- We understand the federal court procedures
4. We’ve Secured Multi-Million Dollar Results
Our firm has recovered millions for trucking accident victims, including:
- $5+ million for a traumatic brain injury from a logging accident
- $3.8+ million for a leg amputation caused by a car accident with medical complications
- $2.5+ million for truck crash recoveries
- Millions for families in wrongful death cases
5. We Offer Fluent Spanish Services
Many truck drivers and accident victims in Garza County speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. We also have bilingual staff who can assist with:
- Case communications
- Medical appointments
- Court proceedings
Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.
6. We Handle Cases on Contingency – No Fee Unless We Win
We understand that after a serious accident, you may be facing:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Vehicle repair costs
- Other financial pressures
That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis:
- No upfront costs
- No hourly fees
- No retainer required
- You pay nothing unless we win your case
Our fee comes as a percentage of your recovery, so our interests are completely aligned with yours.
7. We Have Offices Across Texas
With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we’re never far from Garza County. We regularly handle cases throughout West Texas and can:
- Travel to you for consultations
- Meet you at the accident scene
- Handle all court appearances
- Provide local representation
8. We Have a 4.9-Star Rating from Over 250 Clients
Our clients consistently praise our:
- Personal attention
- Communication
- Results
- Compassion
“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client
“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client
“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Garza County
If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Garza County, follow these steps to protect your health and your legal rights:
Immediately After the Accident
-
Call 911
- Report the accident and request police and EMS
- Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by paramedics
-
Seek Medical Attention
- Go to the emergency room or urgent care immediately
- Many serious injuries aren’t immediately apparent
- Delaying treatment gives insurance companies ammunition
-
Document the Scene
- Take photos and videos of:
- All vehicles involved
- Damage to your vehicle (inside and out)
- The truck and trailer
- Road conditions
- Skid marks
- Traffic signs and signals
- Your injuries
- Get contact information from witnesses
- Take photos and videos of:
-
Collect Critical Information
- Truck driver’s name and CDL number
- Trucking company name and DOT number
- Insurance information for all parties
- License plate numbers
- Witness names and phone numbers
-
Do NOT Give Statements
- Do not give recorded statements to any insurance company
- Do not sign anything without consulting an attorney
- Anything you say can be used against you
-
Call an 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney Immediately
- Critical evidence disappears fast
- We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
- The sooner we start, the stronger your case will be
In the Days Following the Accident
-
Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
- Attend all follow-up appointments
- Follow treatment recommendations
- Keep records of all medical care
-
Document Everything
- Keep a journal of your symptoms and pain levels
- Record how your injuries affect daily activities
- Save all medical bills and receipts
-
Do NOT Post on Social Media
- Insurance companies will use your posts against you
- Even innocent photos can be misinterpreted
- Stay off social media until your case is resolved
-
Avoid Talking About Your Case
- Don’t discuss your case with anyone except your attorney
- Be careful what you say to medical providers
- Insurance companies may try to contact you
-
Stay in Communication with Your Attorney
- Respond promptly to requests for information
- Report any changes in your condition
- Keep your attorney updated on your treatment
The Legal Process: What to Expect
When you hire Attorney911 to handle your Garza County 18-wheeler accident case, here’s what you can expect:
Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)
- Free initial consultation
- Case evaluation and strategy
- Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
- Begin gathering police reports and medical records
- Photograph your injuries and vehicle damage
Phase 2: Investigation (Days 1-30)
- Obtain ECM/black box data
- Download ELD records
- Subpoena driver qualification files
- Gather maintenance and inspection records
- Interview witnesses
- Hire accident reconstruction experts
- Identify all potentially liable parties
Phase 3: Medical Treatment (Weeks 1-24)
- Help you get appropriate medical care
- Coordinate with doctors to document your injuries
- Track your treatment and recovery
- Calculate future medical needs
Phase 4: Demand and Negotiation (Months 3-12)
- Send demand letter to insurance companies
- Calculate full value of your damages
- Negotiate aggressively for fair settlement
- Reject lowball offers
- Prepare for litigation if necessary
Phase 5: Litigation (Months 12-36)
- File lawsuit if settlement isn’t reached
- Conduct discovery (interrogatories, depositions)
- Retain expert witnesses
- File and respond to motions
- Prepare for trial
Phase 6: Resolution
- Negotiate settlement from position of strength
- Take case to trial if necessary
- Collect your settlement or verdict
- Distribute funds and pay medical liens
Frequently Asked Questions About Garza County Trucking Accidents
What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Garza County?
If you’re able, take these steps:
- Call 911 and report the accident
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Document the scene with photos and videos
- Get the truck driver’s information and the trucking company’s DOT number
- Collect witness contact information
- Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
- Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Texas?
Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.
What if the truck driver says the accident was my 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. Our job is to investigate thoroughly and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs – the evidence tells the true story.
How much is my 18-wheeler accident case worth?
Case values depend on many factors:
- Severity of your injuries
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
- Available insurance coverage
Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical auto policies, often $750,000 to $5,000,000 or more. This means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.
What if the trucking company offers me a settlement right away?
Be very cautious of early settlement offers. These are almost always lowball offers 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.
Can I sue the trucking company even if the driver was an independent contractor?
Yes. Even if the driver owns their own truck and contracts with the trucking company, both the driver and the company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from all responsible parties.
What if I can’t afford an attorney?
You don’t need to worry about affording an attorney. We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.
How long will my case 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 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.
What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
Even if the trucking company goes out of business, their insurance policy should still cover your claim. We identify all available insurance coverage to maximize your recovery.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes, as long as you were less than 50% at fault. Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault, but you can still recover compensation.
What if the truck driver was fatigued?
Fatigued driving is a major cause of trucking accidents. We prove fatigue through:
- ELD data showing hours of service violations
- Dispatch records showing unrealistic schedules
- Cell phone records showing late-night driving
- Witness statements about driver behavior
What if the truck had mechanical problems?
Mechanical failures like brake problems or tire blowouts often indicate negligent maintenance. We investigate:
- Maintenance records
- Inspection reports
- Repair history
- Driver vehicle inspection reports
Can I get punitive damages in my trucking accident case?
Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company or driver acted with gross negligence or reckless disregard for safety. This can include:
- Systematic hours of service violations
- Falsifying log books
- Hiring unqualified drivers
- Ignoring known mechanical problems
- Destroying evidence
What if I don’t have health insurance?
We can help you get the medical care you need. Many doctors will treat you on a lien basis, meaning they get paid from your settlement. We work with medical providers who understand personal injury cases.
How do I know if I have a good case?
The strongest cases have:
- Clear liability (the trucking company was obviously at fault)
- Significant injuries requiring medical treatment
- Adequate insurance coverage
- Timely medical documentation
Even if your case isn’t perfect, we can evaluate its strengths and weaknesses during a free consultation.
What if the trucking company’s insurance denies my claim?
Insurance companies often deny claims hoping you’ll give up. We know how to fight denials through:
- Appeals to the insurance company
- Complaints to the Texas Department of Insurance
- Filing a lawsuit to force payment
- Using bad faith insurance laws when appropriate
The Attorney911 Difference: Why We Get Better Results
When you’re up against powerful trucking companies with teams of lawyers, you need more than just any attorney. You need a team with:
Insurance Defense Experience
Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows:
- How insurance companies evaluate claims
- The tactics they use to minimize payouts
- What makes them settle vs. what makes them fight
- How to counter their strategies
This insider knowledge gives our clients a significant advantage.
Federal Court Capability
Many trucking cases involve federal regulations and can be filed in federal court. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, is admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This means:
- We can handle cases that cross state lines
- We’re prepared for complex federal litigation
- We understand the federal court procedures
Multi-Million Dollar Track Record
Our firm has recovered millions for trucking accident victims, including:
- $5+ million for a traumatic brain injury
- $3.8+ million for an amputation
- $2.5+ million for truck crash recoveries
- Millions for families in wrongful death cases
Fluent Spanish Services
Many truck drivers and accident victims in Garza County speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. We also have bilingual staff who can assist with:
- Case communications
- Medical appointments
- Court proceedings
Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.
Contingency Fee Representation
We understand that after a serious accident, you may be facing financial pressures. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis:
- No upfront costs
- No hourly fees
- No retainer required
- You pay nothing unless we win your case
Local Knowledge of Garza County
We understand the unique challenges of trucking cases in our region:
- The oil field traffic patterns
- The agricultural hauling seasons
- The rural road conditions
- The local courts and judges
- The medical resources available
Comprehensive Resources
We have the resources to handle complex trucking cases:
- Accident reconstruction experts
- Medical experts
- Vocational experts
- Economic experts
- Life care planners
- FMCSA regulation experts
Don’t Let the Trucking Company Win – Fight Back Today
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Garza County, time is not on your side. Evidence is disappearing. Witnesses are forgetting. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests.
You need a legal team that will fight just as aggressively for you.
At Attorney911, we have:
- Over 25 years of experience fighting trucking companies
- Federal court capability for complex cases
- A former insurance defense attorney on our team
- Multi-million dollar results for trucking accident victims
- Fluent Spanish services for our community
- Contingency fee representation – you pay nothing unless we win
We know Garza County’s trucking corridors, from the oil field traffic on FM 211 to the agricultural haulers on US-380, and we understand how to build cases that hold negligent trucking companies fully accountable.
Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll evaluate your case, explain your rights, and start preserving the evidence that will prove what really happened.
Remember: The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect them. You deserve the same level of representation. Don’t wait – call Attorney911 today.