18-Wheeler Accidents in Howe, Texas: Your Complete Legal Guide

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Howe, Texas, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks make these accidents particularly devastating. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on Howe families. With over 25 years of experience fighting for truck accident victims across Texas, our team is ready to stand by your side and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Why Howe Trucking Accidents Are Different

Howe sits at a critical juncture of North Texas transportation routes. The intersection of US Highway 82 and State Highway 56 creates a hub of commercial activity that brings heavy truck traffic through our community. The distribution centers and manufacturing facilities in Grayson County mean that Howe residents are more likely to encounter large commercial vehicles than those in many other small Texas towns.

This unique position creates specific risks:

• Increased truck traffic from local distribution centers
• Mixed traffic patterns where large trucks share roads with local commuters
• Highway congestion at key intersections and entry points
• Seasonal variations in truck traffic related to agricultural and manufacturing cycles

Our firm has deep familiarity with Howe’s trucking corridors and understands how these local factors contribute to accident risks.

The Devastating Impact of 18-Wheeler Accidents

The physics of trucking accidents make them particularly dangerous. An 80,000-pound fully loaded 18-wheeler has 20-25 times the mass of a typical passenger vehicle. When these massive vehicles collide with smaller cars, the results are often catastrophic.

Common injuries we see in Howe trucking accidents include:

• Traumatic brain injuries that can change personalities and cognitive abilities
• Spinal cord damage leading to paralysis and lifelong disability
• Amputations from crushing injuries or medical necessity
• Severe burns from fuel fires or hazardous cargo spills
• Internal organ damage that may not be immediately apparent
• Wrongful death that leaves families grieving and financially devastated

These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and may result in permanent disability that affects your ability to work and enjoy life as you once did.

Why You Need a Howe Trucking Accident Attorney Immediately

After a trucking accident in Howe, time is not on your side. Critical evidence begins disappearing almost immediately:

• Black box data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days
• ELD logs may be deleted after 6 months
• Dashcam footage is often erased within 7-14 days
• Witness memories fade quickly
• Physical evidence like skid marks and debris is cleared from the scene
• Vehicles may be repaired or sold before inspection

Our team moves fast to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever. We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained, putting the trucking company on legal notice that destroying evidence will have serious consequences.

Who’s Really Responsible for Your Howe Trucking Accident?

One of the most important aspects of trucking accident cases is that multiple parties can be held liable. Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve a web of responsible parties.

In Howe trucking cases, we investigate liability against:

• The truck driver for negligent operation
• The trucking company for negligent hiring, training, or supervision
• The cargo owner for improper loading or hazardous cargo
• The loading company for improper securement
• The truck manufacturer for defective design or manufacturing
• Parts manufacturers for defective components
• Maintenance companies for negligent repairs
• Freight brokers for negligent carrier selection
• Government entities for dangerous road conditions

Our investigation leaves no stone unturned to identify all potentially liable parties and maximize your recovery.

Common Causes of Howe Trucking Accidents

Howe’s unique geography and traffic patterns contribute to specific types of trucking accidents:

1. Jackknife Accidents on US Highway 82

The long straight stretches of US Highway 82 can lull drivers into a false sense of security, leading to excessive speeds. When sudden braking is required—whether due to traffic congestion, wildlife crossing, or other hazards—trucks can jackknife, especially when:

• Brakes are improperly maintained
• Roads are wet or icy
• Trailers are empty or lightly loaded
• Drivers brake suddenly to avoid hazards

Jackknife accidents often result in multi-vehicle pileups as the trailer swings across multiple lanes.

2. Underride Collisions at Highway Intersections

Howe’s highway intersections create high-risk zones for underride collisions where passenger vehicles slide underneath trailers. These are among the most deadly trucking accidents, often resulting in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries.

Common causes in Howe include:

• Inadequate or missing underride guards
• Poor lighting or visibility conditions
• Sudden stops by trucks at intersections
• Wide turns that cut across lanes

3. Rear-End Collisions on State Highway 56

The mix of local traffic and commercial vehicles on State Highway 56 creates dangerous conditions for rear-end collisions. Trucks require significantly longer stopping distances than passenger vehicles—up to 525 feet at highway speeds.

Common causes include:

• Following too closely (tailgating)
• Driver distraction (cell phones, dispatch communications)
• Brake failures from poor maintenance
• Driver fatigue that slows reaction times

4. Wide Turn Accidents in Howe’s Business Districts

Howe’s business districts, particularly around the historic downtown area, require trucks to make tight turns. When drivers swing wide to complete right turns, they create dangerous gaps that smaller vehicles may enter, only to be crushed when the turn is completed.

5. Blind Spot Accidents on Rural Routes

The rural routes around Howe, including FM 902 and FM 121, create conditions where blind spot accidents are common. Trucks have significant blind spots (No-Zones) where they cannot see smaller vehicles, particularly on the right side and directly behind the trailer.

6. Tire Blowouts on Long Hauls

The extreme Texas heat combined with the long hauls through Howe can lead to tire blowouts. Underinflated tires, overloaded vehicles, or manufacturing defects can cause sudden failures that lead to loss of control.

7. Brake Failures on Inclines

While Howe isn’t known for steep grades, the gradual inclines on US Highway 82 can still cause brake failures when:

• Brakes are improperly adjusted
• Brake systems have leaks or defects
• Drivers fail to use proper braking techniques on descents

8. Cargo Spills and Hazmat Incidents

Howe’s position as a distribution hub means many trucks carry hazardous materials or heavy cargo. Improperly secured loads can shift during transit, causing rollovers or spills that create additional hazards for other motorists.

Proving Negligence in Your Howe Trucking Case

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

1. Duty of Care: The trucking company and driver owed you a duty to operate safely
2. Breach of Duty: They failed to meet that duty through negligent actions
3. Causation: Their breach directly caused your injuries
4. Damages: You suffered actual harm as a result

Our investigation focuses on gathering evidence to prove each element. This includes:

Electronic Evidence

• ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, throttle position, and other critical data
• ELD Logs: Prove hours of service violations and driver fatigue
• GPS Data: Shows the truck’s route and speed history
• Cell Phone Records: Prove distracted driving
• Dashcam Footage: Provides visual evidence of the accident

Driver and Company Records

• Driver Qualification File: Proves negligent hiring or lack of proper qualifications
• Maintenance Records: Shows deferred maintenance or known defects
• Inspection Reports: Documents pre-existing violations
• Dispatch Records: Reveals pressure to violate hours of service
• Drug and Alcohol Test Results: Proves impairment

Physical Evidence

• Vehicle Inspection: Identifies mechanical failures
• Cargo Securement: Documents improper loading
• Tire Analysis: Determines if blowout was preventable
• Brake System Evaluation: Identifies maintenance failures
• Scene Documentation: Skid marks, debris patterns, road conditions

FMCSA Regulations: The Key to Your Case

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations govern every aspect of commercial trucking operations. Violations of these regulations provide powerful evidence of negligence.

Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395)

Fatigue is a leading cause of trucking accidents. FMCSA limits driving time to prevent fatigue-related crashes:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour On-Duty Window: Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• 30-Minute Break: Required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
• 34-Hour Restart: Required to reset weekly limits

Violations of these rules are among the most common we find in Howe trucking cases.

Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR Part 391)

Trucking companies must ensure drivers are properly qualified:

• Minimum Age: 21 for interstate drivers
• English Proficiency: Must read and speak English sufficiently
• Medical Certification: Must pass physical exam
• Driving Record: Must have clean record
• Background Check: Must verify previous employment
• Training: Must complete proper training

Missing or incomplete Driver Qualification Files prove negligent hiring.

Vehicle Safety Requirements (49 CFR Part 393)

Trucks must be properly maintained and equipped:

• Brakes: Must be properly adjusted and functional
• Tires: Must have adequate tread depth
• Lighting: All lights must be operational
• Cargo Securement: Must prevent shifting or spilling
• Underride Guards: Must be properly installed

Maintenance records often reveal violations of these requirements.

Inspection and Maintenance (49 CFR Part 396)

Trucking companies must systematically inspect and maintain vehicles:

• Pre-Trip Inspections: Drivers must inspect before each trip
• Post-Trip Inspections: Drivers must report defects after each trip
• Annual Inspections: Vehicles must pass comprehensive annual inspection
• Maintenance Records: Must be kept for at least 1 year

Failure to maintain proper inspection and maintenance records proves negligence.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

Howe trucking accident victims may be entitled to significant compensation, including:

Economic Damages

• Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to time off work
• Lost Earning Capacity: Reduction in future earning ability
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation, home modifications, etc.

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain from injuries
• Mental Anguish: Psychological trauma and emotional distress
• Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in activities
• Disfigurement: Scarring and visible injuries
• Loss of Consortium: Impact on family relationships

Punitive Damages

In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, punitive damages may be available to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct.

The Attorney911 Advantage for Howe Residents

When you choose Attorney911 to handle your Howe trucking accident case, you’re getting a team with unique advantages:

1. Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm before joining our team. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage in negotiating with trucking company insurers.

2. Proven Track Record of Multi-Million Dollar Results

We have secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for trucking accident victims, including:

• $5+ million for a brain injury caused by a falling log
• $3.8+ million for an amputation resulting from a car accident with medical complications
• $2.5+ million for truck crash recoveries

3. Deep Familiarity with Howe and Grayson County

We know Howe’s roads, courts, and community. Our local knowledge allows us to:

• Understand the specific traffic patterns that contribute to accidents
• Work effectively with local law enforcement and accident investigators
• Navigate the Grayson County court system efficiently
• Build rapport with local juries when cases go to trial

4. Federal Court Experience

Our managing partner Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court.

5. Spanish Language Services

Howe has a growing Hispanic community, and we’re proud to serve Spanish-speaking clients directly. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our staff includes Spanish speakers who can assist with communication.

6. Comprehensive Resources

We have the resources to handle complex trucking cases, including:

• Accident reconstruction experts
• Medical specialists
• Vocational experts
• Life care planners
• Economic experts

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Howe

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Howe, take these steps to protect your rights:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

   • Even if you feel fine, get checked out
   • Adrenaline can mask serious injuries
   • Medical records create crucial evidence

2. Call 911 and Report the Accident

   • A police report creates an official record
   • Officers will document the scene and gather witness information

3. Document the Scene

   • Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions
   • Get the truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company information
   • Collect witness contact information

4. Do NOT Give Recorded Statements

   • Insurance adjusters will call quickly
   • Anything you say can be used against you
   • Refer all communications to your attorney

5. Contact Attorney911 Immediately

   • We’ll send preservation letters to protect evidence
   • We’ll handle communications with insurance companies
   • We’ll begin building your case right away

Common Insurance Company Tactics (And How We Counter Them)

Trucking company insurers are trained to minimize your claim. Here are common tactics they use and how we counter them:

Howe Trucking Accident Case Timeline

While every case is unique, here’s a general timeline for Howe trucking accident cases:

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Howe Trucking Case?

When you’re facing the aftermath of a devastating trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a team that will fight for your future. Here’s why Howe residents choose Attorney911:

We Treat You Like Family

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

We understand that a trucking accident changes your life in an instant. Our team provides compassionate, personalized service while aggressively pursuing maximum compensation.

We Take Cases Other Firms Reject

“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

Many firms won’t touch complex trucking cases. We have the experience and resources to handle even the most challenging cases.

We Solve Cases Faster Than Competitors

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

While we never rush cases, our efficient approach often leads to faster resolutions than other firms.

We Have Insider Knowledge

“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.”

We Fight for Maximum Recovery

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

We never settle for less than you deserve. Our goal is to maximize your recovery so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Howe Trucking Accidents

Q: How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Howe?

A: In Texas, you generally have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

Q: What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?

A: Drivers often claim the accident wasn’t their fault to protect their jobs. We gather objective evidence—especially ECM and ELD data—to prove what really happened. Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system, which means you can still recover compensation as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault.

Q: How much is my Howe trucking accident case worth?

A: Case values depend on many factors, including:

• Severity of your injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of the defendant’s negligence
• Available insurance coverage

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), which allows for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.

Q: Will my case go to trial?

A: 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.

Q: Do I need to pay anything upfront?

A: No. 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.

Q: What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

A: We investigate all potentially liable parties, including the truck driver, cargo owner, loading company, maintenance provider, and others. Even if the primary trucking company is insolvent, other defendants may have insurance coverage available.

Q: Can I handle my case without a lawyer?

A: Technically yes, but it’s extremely risky. Trucking cases are complex, involving multiple liable parties, extensive regulations, and sophisticated insurance companies. Statistics show that accident victims with attorneys receive significantly higher settlements—even after paying legal fees.

Q: What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

A: Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. As long as you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover compensation. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re 20% at fault, you can recover 80% of your damages.

Q: How long will my case take to resolve?

A: Timelines vary:

• Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
• Moderate cases with some disputes: 12-24 months
• Complex cases with severe injuries: 2-4 years
• Cases that go to trial: 3-5 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Q: What if the truck was carrying hazardous materials?

A: Hazmat trucking accidents create additional legal issues. The trucking company must carry $5 million in insurance for hazmat loads. Exposure to hazardous materials may create additional claims for chemical burns, respiratory damage, or environmental contamination.

Howe Trucking Accident Resources

Local Medical Facilities

• Texoma Medical Center (Denison): 5016 S US Hwy 75, Denison, TX 75020
• Wilson N. Jones Regional Medical Center (Sherman): 500 N Highland Ave, Sherman, TX 75092
• Medical City McKinney: 4500 Medical Center Dr, McKinney, TX 75069

Grayson County Courts

• Grayson County District Courts: 101 W Woodard St, Sherman, TX 75090
• Grayson County Justice of the Peace Courts: Various locations in Sherman, Denison, Howe, and Van Alstyne

Trucking Safety Resources

• Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): www.txdot.gov
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): www.fmcsa.dot.gov
• SaferSys (FMCSA Safety Data): safer.fmcsa.dot.gov

Support Groups

• Brain Injury Association of Texas: www.biatx.org
• Texas Spinal Cord Injury Association: www.txscia.org
• Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Texas: www.madd.org/texas

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Howe, Texas, don’t wait. Every hour that passes puts your case at risk. Contact Attorney911 now for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Call 24/7: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

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

Our team is ready to fight for you. We’ll send preservation letters immediately to protect your evidence, handle all communications with insurance companies, and begin building your case right away. You pay nothing unless we win.

“When an 18-wheeler changes your family’s life forever, y’all need a lawyer who treats you like family.”
— Attorney911

Don’t let the trucking company’s lawyers work against you while you’re trying to recover. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re here to help.