18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Gonzales County, Texas | Attorney911**

Every year, thousands of 18-wheeler accidents occur on Gonzales County’s highways and rural roads. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in Gonzales County, you need an attorney who understands both federal trucking regulations and the unique challenges of our local roads.

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 right here in Gonzales County.

Why Gonzales County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Gonzales County’s trucking corridors present unique challenges:

• US-90 and US-183 – Heavy freight traffic from San Antonio to Houston
• SH-97 – Connecting Gonzales to I-10, frequented by agricultural and oilfield trucks
• FM roads – Rural farm-to-market routes with limited shoulders and lighting
• Distribution centers – Increased truck traffic around local warehouses
• Oilfield activity – Specialized trucking for energy sector operations

Our team knows these roads intimately. We understand the specific risks at the US-90/US-183 intersection, the challenges of FM 466, and the dangers of rural routes where truckers may be pushing hours-of-service limits.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Gonzales County

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Gonzales County, take these critical steps:

1. Call 911 immediately – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent
3. Document the scene – Take photos of all vehicles, road conditions, and your injuries
4. Get the trucking company information – Name, DOT number, and insurance details
5. Collect witness information – Names and contact details of anyone who saw the accident
6. Do NOT give recorded statements – Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company
7. Call Attorney911 immediately – Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases

“Every hour you wait, evidence in your Gonzales County trucking accident case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. Call Attorney911 NOW at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence.” — Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner

Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Gonzales County

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes. These are particularly dangerous on Gonzales County’s rural roads where emergency response may be delayed.

Common causes in Gonzales County:

• Sudden braking on wet or uneven road surfaces
• Speeding on curves, especially on FM roads
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing)
• Brake system failures or improper maintenance
• Driver inexperience with local road conditions

Rollover Accidents

With Gonzales County’s mix of rural roads and highway corridors, rollover accidents are a significant risk, especially when trucks take curves too fast or when cargo shifts.

Common causes:

• Speeding on curves and ramps
• Improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo
• Liquid cargo “slosh” shifting center of gravity
• Overcorrection after tire blowouts or lane departures
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reactions

Underride Collisions

Among the most deadly types of trucking accidents, underride collisions occur when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer. Gonzales County’s rural roads with limited lighting make these accidents particularly dangerous at night.

Types:

• Rear underride – Vehicle strikes back of trailer
• Side underride – Vehicle impacts side of trailer during turns or lane changes

Why they’re so deadly:

• The trailer height often shears off the passenger compartment
• Airbags may not deploy properly
• Occupants suffer catastrophic head and neck injuries

Rear-End Collisions

Gonzales County’s mix of highway and rural traffic creates conditions where rear-end collisions are common, especially when trucks fail to stop in time for slowed or stopped traffic.

Why they’re so dangerous:

• 18-wheelers require 40-50% more stopping distance than cars
• A fully loaded truck at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to stop
• Rear-end collisions often cause multi-vehicle pileups

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

These occur when a truck swings wide before making a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing the vehicle that entered the gap.

Common locations in Gonzales County:

• Downtown Gonzales intersections
• US-90/US-183 intersection
• Rural road intersections where trucks turn into driveways

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)

Trucks have four major blind spots where drivers cannot see other vehicles. Gonzales County’s rural roads with limited visibility make these accidents particularly common.

The Four No-Zones:

1. Front No-Zone – 20 feet directly in front of the cab
2. Rear No-Zone – 30 feet behind the trailer
3. Left Side No-Zone – Extends from cab door backward
4. Right Side No-Zone – Extends from cab door backward (largest blind spot)

Tire Blowout Accidents

Gonzales County’s rural roads with debris and rough surfaces create conditions where tire blowouts are more likely to occur.

Common causes:

• Underinflated tires causing overheating
• Overloaded vehicles exceeding tire capacity
• Worn or aging tires not replaced
• Road debris punctures
• Manufacturing defects

Brake Failure Accidents

With the long stretches of highway in Gonzales County, brake failures are a significant risk, especially on downhill grades.

Common causes:

• Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
• Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
• Air brake system leaks or failures
• Overheated brakes (brake fade) on long descents
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Defective brake components

Why You Need a Gonzales County 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney

Trucking companies have teams of lawyers and rapid-response investigators working to protect their interests from the moment an accident occurs. You need someone who knows how to fight back.

At Attorney911, we offer:

✅ Immediate evidence preservation – We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
✅ Federal court experience – Admitted to U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
✅ Insider knowledge – Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney
✅ Multi-million dollar results – We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims
✅ Local knowledge – We know Gonzales County’s roads, courts, and trucking patterns
✅ No upfront costs – You pay nothing unless we win your case

“Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years INSIDE the system. He watched adjusters minimize claims. He saw how they train their people to lowball victims. Now he exposes those tactics and uses his insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation for Gonzales County families.” — Ralph Manginello

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Gonzales County

Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)

Federal regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

• Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 hours off duty
• Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
• 30-minute break required after 8 hours driving
• 60/70 hour weekly limits

Why violations occur in Gonzales County:

• Pressure from carriers to meet delivery deadlines
• Long hauls between San Antonio and Houston
• Rural road conditions that slow travel times
• Inadequate rest areas along US-90

Distracted Driving

Despite federal regulations prohibiting hand-held phone use, distracted driving remains a major problem.

Common distractions:

• Cell phone use (texting, calls)
• Dispatch communications
• GPS navigation systems
• Eating or drinking while driving
• External distractions (billboards, scenery)

Impaired Driving

Despite strict regulations, impaired driving continues to be a problem.

Types of impairment:

• Alcohol (BAC .04 or higher is illegal for commercial drivers)
• Illegal drugs
• Prescription medications
• Over-the-counter medications
• Fatigue (considered impairment under FMCSA regulations)

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Gonzales County’s mix of rural roads and highways creates conditions where speeding is particularly dangerous.

Common violations:

• Exceeding posted speed limits
• Driving too fast for conditions (wet roads, low visibility)
• Aggressive driving (tailgating, frequent lane changes)
• Failure to yield right-of-way

Improper Maintenance

With the heavy truck traffic in Gonzales County, maintenance violations are common.

Common maintenance failures:

• Brake system deficiencies
• Worn or improperly inflated tires
• Defective lighting and reflectors
• Steering system failures
• Suspension problems

Improper Loading

Gonzales County’s agricultural and industrial activity creates conditions where improper loading is more likely.

Common loading violations:

• Overweight loads exceeding vehicle capacity
• Improperly secured cargo
• Uneven weight distribution
• Inadequate tiedowns
• Failure to use blocking or bracing

Proving Negligence in Gonzales County Trucking Cases

To win your case, we must prove the trucking company or driver was negligent. We do this by demonstrating violations of federal regulations and state laws.

Key FMCSA Regulations We Use to Prove Negligence

49 CFR Part 391 – Driver Qualification:

• Failed to maintain proper Driver Qualification File
• Hired unqualified or unlicensed drivers
• Failed to verify driving history
• Failed to conduct proper background checks

49 CFR Part 392 – Driving Rules:

• Driver was operating while fatigued
• Driver was distracted (cell phone use, etc.)
• Driver was impaired (drugs, alcohol)
• Driver failed to obey traffic laws
• Driver failed to conduct proper pre-trip inspections

49 CFR Part 393 – Vehicle Safety:

• Failed to maintain proper brakes
• Failed to maintain proper tires
• Failed to maintain proper lighting
• Failed to secure cargo properly
• Failed to maintain other safety equipment

49 CFR Part 395 – Hours of Service:

• Driver exceeded 11-hour driving limit
• Driver exceeded 14-hour duty window
• Driver failed to take required 30-minute breaks
• Driver failed to maintain proper logs (ELD violations)

49 CFR Part 396 – Inspection & Maintenance:

• Failed to conduct proper vehicle inspections
• Failed to maintain proper maintenance records
• Failed to repair known defects
• Failed to conduct annual inspections

Evidence We Gather in Gonzales County Trucking Cases

Electronic Data

• ECM/Black Box Data – Records speed, braking, throttle position
• ELD Data – Proves hours of service violations
• GPS/Telematics Data – Shows route, speed, and location history
• Dashcam Footage – Video evidence of driver behavior
• Cell Phone Records – Proves distracted driving

Driver Records

• Driver Qualification File – Hiring and training documentation
• Driving Record – Previous violations and accidents
• Medical Certification – Health and fitness to drive
• Drug/Alcohol Test Results – Impairment evidence
• Training Records – Adequacy of safety training

Vehicle Records

• Maintenance Records – Proof of deferred maintenance
• Inspection Reports – Pre-trip and post-trip inspections
• Out-of-Service Orders – Previous safety violations
• Tire Records – Age and replacement history
• Brake Inspection Records – Adjustment and repair history

Company Records

• Dispatch Records – Pressure to violate HOS
• Safety Policies – Company safety culture
• CSA Scores – Carrier’s safety record
• Previous Violations – Pattern of negligence
• Insurance Policies – Coverage verification

Common Injuries in Gonzales County 18-Wheeler Accidents

Due to the massive size and weight disparity between trucks and passenger vehicles, 18-wheeler accidents often result in catastrophic injuries.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In trucking accidents, this often happens when the head strikes the steering wheel, dashboard, or window.

Severity levels:

• Mild (Concussion) – Confusion, headache, brief loss of consciousness
• Moderate – Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits
• Severe – Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment

Lifetime care costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity

Spinal Cord Injury

Damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of paralysis:

• Paraplegia – Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia – Loss of function in all four limbs
• Incomplete Injury – Some nerve function remains
• Complete Injury – Total loss of sensation and movement

Lifetime care costs:

• Paraplegia: $1.1 million to $2.5 million+
• Quadriplegia: $3.5 million to $5 million+

Amputation

Amputations occur when limbs are severed at the scene or when severe damage requires surgical removal.

Ongoing medical needs:

• Initial surgery and hospitalization
• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ per prosthetic)
• Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Occupational therapy for daily living skills

Severe Burns

Burns occur from fuel tank ruptures, hazmat cargo spills, or electrical fires.

Burn classification:

• First Degree – Epidermis only (minor)
• Second Degree – Epidermis and dermis (may scar)
• Third Degree – Full thickness (requires skin grafts)
• Fourth Degree – Through skin to muscle/bone

Internal Organ Damage

Internal injuries may not show immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening.

Common internal injuries:

• Liver laceration or rupture
• Spleen damage requiring removal
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusion or collapse
• Internal bleeding
• Bowel and intestinal damage

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can pursue wrongful death claims.

Who can bring a wrongful death claim in Texas:

• Surviving spouse
• Children (minor and adult)
• Parents (if no spouse or children)
• Estate representative

Damages available:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship)
• Loss of parental guidance
• Mental anguish and emotional distress
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses before death
• Pain and suffering before death
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

Gonzales County Trucking Accident Statistics

While specific Gonzales County statistics may be limited, Texas and national data provide insight into the risks:

• National: Over 5,100 people die in trucking accidents annually
• Texas: Texas has the highest number of trucking fatalities in the nation
• Fatalities: 76% of those killed are occupants of the smaller vehicle
• Injuries: Over 125,000 people are injured in trucking accidents each year
• Causes: Driver fatigue causes 31% of fatal truck crashes
• Violations: Hours of service violations are among the most common FMCSA violations

Gonzales County’s position along major trucking corridors between San Antonio and Houston increases the risk of trucking accidents on our roads.

What Your Gonzales County Trucking Accident Case Might Be Worth

Case values depend on many factors, including:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of defendant’s negligence
• Insurance coverage available

Typical settlement ranges in Texas trucking cases:

Recent major trucking verdicts in Texas:

• $730 million – Ramsey v. Landstar (2021)
• $150 million – Werner settlement (2022)
• $37.5 million – Texas trucking verdict (2024)

These verdicts demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable for their negligence.

How We Handle Gonzales County Trucking Cases

Step 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)

• Accept your case and send preservation letters same day
• Deploy accident reconstruction expert to scene if needed
• Obtain police crash report
• Photograph your injuries with medical documentation
• Photograph all vehicles before they are repaired or scrapped
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Step 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

• Subpoena ELD/black box data downloads
• Request driver’s paper log books (backup documentation)
• Obtain complete Driver Qualification File from carrier
• Request all truck maintenance and inspection records
• Obtain carrier’s CSA safety scores and inspection history
• Order driver’s complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
• Subpoena driver’s cell phone records
• Obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules

Step 3: Expert Analysis

• Accident reconstruction specialist creates crash analysis
• Medical experts establish causation and future care needs
• Vocational experts calculate lost earning capacity
• Economic experts determine present value of all damages
• Life care planners develop comprehensive care plans
• FMCSA regulation experts identify all violations

Step 4: Litigation Strategy

• File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires (2 years in Texas)
• Pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
• Depose truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, maintenance personnel
• Build case for trial while negotiating settlement from position of strength
• Prepare every case as if going to trial (creates leverage in negotiations)

All Parties We Hold Accountable in Gonzales County Trucking Cases

In addition to the truck driver, we investigate and pursue claims against ALL potentially liable parties:

1. The Truck Driver – Direct negligence (speeding, fatigue, distraction, impairment)
2. The Trucking Company – Vicarious liability, negligent hiring/training/supervision
3. The Truck Owner – Negligent entrustment of dangerous vehicle
4. The Cargo Owner – Improper loading instructions, pressure to violate HOS
5. The Loading Company – Improper cargo securement, unbalanced loads
6. The Maintenance Company – Negligent repairs, failure to identify safety issues
7. The Truck Manufacturer – Defective design or manufacturing (brakes, tires, etc.)
8. The Parts Manufacturer – Defective components that failed
9. The Freight Broker – Negligent selection of unsafe carriers
10. Government Entities – Dangerous road design, inadequate signage

Gonzales County-Specific Considerations

Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers

Gonzales County residents injured in trucking accidents may be transported to:

• Ascension Seton Edgar B. Davis Hospital (Luling)
• Central Texas Medical Center (San Marcos)
• Christus Santa Rosa Hospital (San Antonio)
• University Hospital (San Antonio) – Level I Trauma Center

Local Courts

Trucking accident lawsuits in Gonzales County may be filed in:

• Gonzales County District Court
• Gonzales County Court at Law
• Justice of the Peace Courts (for smaller claims)
• U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas (for federal cases)

Local Trucking Corridors

Gonzales County’s trucking routes present unique challenges:

• US-90 – Major east-west corridor between San Antonio and Houston
• US-183 – North-south route connecting Gonzales to Austin and Victoria
• SH-97 – Connects Gonzales to I-10, frequented by oilfield trucks
• FM 466 – Rural route with limited shoulders and lighting
• FM 1115 – Agricultural trucking route
• FM 2091 – Rural route with challenging curves

Local Trucking Companies

While we don’t name specific companies, Gonzales County sees truck traffic from:

• Agricultural haulers transporting local crops
• Oilfield service companies serving the Eagle Ford Shale
• Distribution companies supplying local warehouses
• Long-haul carriers traveling between San Antonio and Houston

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Gonzales County Trucking Case

25+ Years of Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. Our team has handled hundreds of trucking cases across Texas.

Federal Court Experience

We’re admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas – crucial for interstate trucking cases.

Insider Knowledge

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers operate.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions 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

Local Knowledge

We know Gonzales County’s roads, courts, and trucking patterns. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.

Aggressive Representation

We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know we’ll fight for maximum compensation.

No Upfront Costs

We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all investigation costs.

“If you’ve been hurt in a trucking accident anywhere in Gonzales County, call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. Our Gonzales County trucking accident attorneys offer free consultations and work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Gonzales County Trucking Accidents

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

Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene, get the trucking company information, collect witness contact information, and call Attorney911 immediately. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company.

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. Gonzales County hospitals can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case.

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 in Gonzales County?

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 Gonzales County?

Multiple parties may be liable:

• 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)

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

Usually YES. Under the 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 (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 as long as you were less than 51% at fault. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened.

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 airplane black boxes. 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. Drivers who violate these rules are too tired to react safely.

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 Gonzales County?

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 Gonzales County?

Case values depend on many factors:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income 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.

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

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 Gonzales County?

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 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.

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.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

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.

How do cargo spills create liability?

Cargo spills often result from:

• Improperly secured cargo
• Overweight loads
• Failure to use proper tiedowns
• Inadequate blocking and bracing
• Defective securement devices

The cargo owner, loading company, and trucking company may all share liability.

What if a tire blowout caused my accident?

Tire blowouts are often caused by:

• Underinflated tires
• Overloaded vehicles
• Worn or aging tires
• Road debris
• Manufacturing defects

The trucking company may be liable for failing to maintain proper tires, and the tire manufacturer may be liable for defective products.

How do brake failures get investigated?

Brake failures are investigated by:

• Analyzing maintenance records
• Inspecting the brake system post-accident
• Reviewing out-of-service orders
• Examining ECM data for brake application
• Checking for proper brake adjustment
• Reviewing mechanic qualifications

Brake system violations are among the most common FMCSA violations.

What if the truck’s dashcam recorded the accident?

Dashcam footage can be critical evidence. We demand preservation of all video evidence immediately. This footage can show:

• Driver behavior before the accident
• Road conditions
• Traffic signals
• Other vehicles’ actions
• The actual impact

Can I get the truck’s GPS data?

Yes. GPS and telematics data can show:

• The truck’s route
• Speed throughout the trip
• Stops and duration
• Location at time of accident
• Driver behavior patterns

This data is often critical for proving hours of service violations and speeding.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, their insurance policy may still provide coverage. Additionally, other parties (cargo owner, loading company, maintenance provider) may share liability. We investigate all potential sources of recovery.

How are future medical expenses calculated?

Future medical expenses are calculated by:

• Consulting with medical experts
• Reviewing current treatment plans
• Estimating future surgeries and procedures
• Calculating rehabilitation needs
• Estimating medication costs
• Projecting home modification costs
• Considering assistive device costs

What is loss of consortium?

Loss of consortium refers to the impact on your relationship with your spouse due to injuries. This includes:

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

When are punitive damages available?

Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company or driver acted with:

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

How do product defects (brakes, tires) create liability?

If a defective part contributed to the accident, the manufacturer may be liable under product liability law. This requires proving:

• The part was defective
• The defect caused the accident
• The defect existed when the part left the manufacturer

What if road conditions contributed to my accident?

Government entities may be liable for:

• Dangerous road design
• Failure to maintain roads
• Inadequate signage
• Failure to install safety barriers
• Improper work zone setup

Special notice requirements and shorter deadlines apply to government claims.

Can I sue for PTSD after a trucking accident?

Yes. PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) compensation is available. Symptoms include:

• Flashbacks and nightmares
• Severe anxiety
• Avoidance of driving or certain locations
• Depression
• Sleep disturbances

Documentation from a psychologist or psychiatrist is required.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

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

How do you prove the driver was fatigued?

We prove fatigue through:

• ELD data showing hours of service violations
• Dispatch records showing unrealistic schedules
• Cell phone records showing late-night communications
• Witness statements about driver behavior
• Truck stop receipts
• Hotel records

What is the FMCSA and how does it help my case?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the trucking industry. Their regulations provide standards for proving negligence. Violations of FMCSA regulations are strong evidence of negligence.

Can I access the trucking company’s safety record?

Yes. FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain the carrier’s:

• CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
• Inspection history and out-of-service rates
• Crash history
• Safety rating

A poor safety record can prove the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on the road.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Gonzales County, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every hour. Call Attorney911 now for your free consultation.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 https://attorney911.com

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.

“At Attorney911, we understand that many trucking accident victims in Gonzales County speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.”

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Your fight starts with one call: 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer. We fight. We win.