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

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Longview, Texas, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. The aftermath of a trucking collision brings overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, and physical pain that can last for years. At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through, and we’re here to help you fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Why Longview Trucking Accidents Are Different

Longview sits at a critical crossroads in East Texas, where major highways like I-20 and US-59 converge with local routes serving the region’s oil, manufacturing, and logistics industries. Our city’s position as a transportation hub means heavy truck traffic flows through our streets daily. When accidents happen here, they often involve:

• Oilfield equipment haulers traveling to and from the Permian Basin
• Manufacturing supply trucks serving Longview’s industrial facilities
• Cross-country freight carriers moving goods along I-20 between Dallas and Shreveport
• Local delivery trucks navigating Longview’s urban streets

The unique mix of local and long-haul trucking in our area creates specific risks that require specialized legal knowledge to address effectively.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Crashes

The physics of trucking accidents make them far more dangerous than typical car crashes. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds – that’s 20 to 25 times heavier than the average passenger vehicle. When these massive trucks collide with smaller vehicles, the results are often catastrophic:

• Traumatic brain injuries from the violent impact forces
• Spinal cord damage that may result in paralysis
• Amputations from crushing injuries or medical necessity
• Severe burns from fuel fires or hazardous cargo spills
• Internal organ damage from the extreme forces involved
• Wrongful death in the most tragic cases

These injuries don’t just cause physical pain – they change lives forever, affecting your ability to work, care for your family, and enjoy the activities you love.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Longview

Our experience handling trucking cases in Longview has revealed several recurring causes of accidents on our local roads:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Long-haul truckers passing through Longview often push beyond federal limits to meet tight delivery schedules. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict hours of service rules:

• 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-hour on-duty window that includes all work activities
• 30-minute break requirement after 8 hours of driving
• 60/70-hour weekly limits with mandatory rest periods

When drivers violate these rules, their reaction times slow dangerously. Fatigued driving is as dangerous as drunk driving, yet some trucking companies pressure drivers to keep moving despite exhaustion.

Improper Maintenance and Equipment Failures

Longview’s climate – with its hot summers and occasional winter ice – puts extra stress on truck components. Common maintenance failures we see include:

• Brake system deficiencies that prevent safe stopping
• Worn or underinflated tires that blow out on our highways
• Faulty lighting systems that make trucks hard to see at night
• Improperly secured cargo that shifts during transit

FMCSA regulations require systematic inspection and maintenance of all commercial vehicles. When trucking companies cut corners on maintenance to save money, they put everyone on the road at risk.

Distracted and Impaired Driving

Despite strict federal regulations, some truck drivers still engage in dangerous behaviors:

• Cell phone use while driving (prohibited by 49 CFR § 392.82)
• Texting while operating a commercial vehicle
• Eating or drinking while behind the wheel
• Using in-cab electronics like GPS or dispatch systems
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

The consequences of distracted or impaired truck driving are particularly severe due to the size and weight of these vehicles.

Improper Loading and Cargo Securement

Longview’s industrial base means many trucks carry specialized cargo that requires careful loading:

• Oilfield equipment that may be top-heavy
• Manufactured goods that can shift during transit
• Hazardous materials that require special handling
• Oversized loads that affect vehicle stability

When cargo isn’t properly secured according to FMCSA regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136), it can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable and potentially roll over or lose control.

Wide Turn Accidents on Longview Streets

Longview’s urban streets present unique challenges for truck drivers:

• Narrow downtown streets that require careful maneuvering
• Busy intersections where right turns create “squeeze play” situations
• Commercial loading zones that force trucks to swing wide
• Pedestrian and cyclist traffic that may be in blind spots

When truck drivers don’t properly account for their trailer’s tracking during turns, they can crush smaller vehicles that get caught in the turning radius.

The Trucking Company’s Playbook: What They Don’t Want You to Know

Trucking companies and their insurance providers have well-established tactics to minimize or deny claims. Here’s what they’re doing right now to protect their interests:

Rapid Response Teams

Within hours of your accident, the trucking company’s legal team is already at work:

• Investigators are dispatched to the scene
• Evidence is being collected to protect the company
• Witnesses are being interviewed
• Photos are being taken from the company’s perspective

They’re building their defense while you’re still in the hospital or dealing with police reports.

Evidence Preservation (or Destruction)

Critical evidence in trucking cases can disappear quickly:

• Black box data (ECM/EDR) can be overwritten in 30 days
• ELD logs may be retained for only 6 months
• Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days
• Maintenance records may be “lost” if not properly preserved
• Physical evidence (the truck itself) may be repaired or sold

At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to legally require preservation of all evidence. This creates serious consequences if evidence is destroyed.

Insurance Adjuster Tactics

The insurance company’s adjusters are trained to:

• Record your statement and use it against you later
• Minimize your injuries by suggesting they’re pre-existing
• Delay your claim hoping you’ll accept a lowball offer
• Blame you for the accident to reduce their payout
• Offer quick settlements before you know the full extent of your injuries

Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows all these tactics from the inside. We use that knowledge to fight back and protect your rights.

Why You Need a Longview Trucking Accident Attorney Immediately

Evidence Disappears Fast

The most critical evidence in your case – the truck’s black box data, electronic logs, and maintenance records – can be lost forever if not preserved immediately. We act fast to secure this evidence before it’s destroyed.

The Trucking Company Has Lawyers – You Need One Too

Trucking companies have teams of attorneys working to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of representation to ensure your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation.

Texas Has Strict Deadlines

Texas law gives you only two years from the date of your accident to file a lawsuit. While this may seem like a long time, building a strong case takes months of investigation and preparation. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

Insurance Companies Don’t Play Fair

Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize claims. They may offer quick settlements that don’t cover your long-term medical needs or lost income. We know how to negotiate with them to get you the compensation you truly deserve.

Multiple Parties May Be Liable

Unlike typical car accidents, trucking collisions often involve multiple liable parties:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• The cargo owner
• The loading company
• The maintenance provider
• The truck manufacturer
• The parts manufacturer
• Government entities (for road defects)

We investigate every possible avenue of liability to maximize your recovery.

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Longview

If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Longview, follow these critical steps:

1. Call 911 immediately – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, get checked out. Many injuries don’t show symptoms immediately
3. Document the scene – Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, and your injuries
4. Collect information – Get the truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
5. Identify witnesses – Get names and contact information from anyone who saw the accident
6. Note the trucking company – Record the company name, DOT number, and any logos on the truck
7. Preserve evidence – Don’t wash your clothes or repair your vehicle until we’ve documented everything
8. Avoid talking to insurance adjusters – Don’t give statements without consulting an attorney
9. Contact Attorney911 immediately – The sooner we get involved, the better we can protect your rights

How We Build Your Longview Trucking Accident Case

At Attorney911, we have a proven process for handling trucking accident cases:

Phase 1: Immediate Response (First 48 Hours)

• Accept your case and send preservation letters to all liable parties
• Deploy investigators to the accident scene if needed
• Obtain the police report and begin gathering evidence
• Document your injuries with medical records and photographs
• Photograph all vehicles before they’re repaired or scrapped
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

• Subpoena black box data from the truck’s ECM/EDR
• Request ELD logs to check for hours of service violations
• Obtain the Driver Qualification File to check hiring practices
• Secure maintenance records to identify deferred repairs
• Subpoena cell phone records to check for distracted driving
• Obtain dispatch records to examine scheduling pressure
• Review the trucking company’s safety record through FMCSA databases

Phase 3: Expert Analysis

• Accident reconstruction specialists analyze the crash dynamics
• Medical experts establish the extent of your injuries and future care needs
• Vocational experts calculate your lost earning capacity
• Economic experts determine the present value of all your damages
• Life care planners develop comprehensive care plans for catastrophic injuries
• FMCSA regulation experts identify all violations that contributed to your accident

Phase 4: Litigation Strategy

• File your lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires
• Pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
• Depose the truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, and maintenance personnel
• Build your case for trial while negotiating from a position of strength
• Prepare every case as if going to trial – this creates maximum leverage in settlement negotiations

The Compensation You Deserve

Trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries that require extensive medical treatment and long-term care. You may be entitled to compensation for:

Economic Damages

• Past and future medical expenses – All treatment costs related to your injuries
• Lost wages – Income lost during your recovery period
• Lost earning capacity – If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job
• Property damage – Repair or replacement of your vehicle
• Out-of-pocket expenses – Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, etc.
• Life care costs – Ongoing medical care and assistance for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering – Physical pain from your injuries
• Mental anguish – Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression
• Loss of enjoyment of life – Inability to participate in activities you once enjoyed
• Disfigurement – Scarring or permanent physical changes
• Loss of consortium – Impact on your marriage and family relationships
• Physical impairment – Permanent limitations on your physical abilities

Punitive Damages

In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. Examples include:

• Falsifying log books to hide hours of service violations
• Destroying evidence after receiving notice of a claim
• Knowingly operating unsafe vehicles
• Pressuring drivers to violate safety regulations

Longview-Specific Trucking Corridors and Risks

Longview’s position in East Texas creates unique trucking accident risks:

I-20 Corridor

Running east-west through Longview, I-20 is a major freight route connecting Dallas to Shreveport and beyond. This busy interstate sees:

• High-speed collisions from excessive speeding
• Rear-end accidents when trucks follow too closely
• Jackknife crashes during sudden braking
• Rollovers from improperly loaded cargo
• Fatigue-related accidents from long-haul drivers

US-59/I-69 Corridor

This north-south route connects Houston to Texarkana and carries significant freight traffic. Accident risks include:

• Intersection collisions at major crossings
• Runaway truck accidents on the slight grades
• Wide turn accidents at commercial intersections
• Hazardous material spills from chemical transport

Local Industrial Routes

Longview’s industrial base creates heavy truck traffic on local roads:

• Loop 281 serving industrial facilities
• Estes Parkway connecting to manufacturing plants
• Fourth Street through downtown Longview
• Marshall Avenue with its commercial loading zones

These local routes present unique risks:

• Blind spot accidents in urban areas
• Pedestrian and cyclist collisions in commercial districts
• Squeeze play accidents during tight turns
• Cargo spills from improperly secured loads

Oilfield Equipment Transport

Longview’s proximity to the Permian Basin means significant oilfield equipment transport:

• Oversized loads that require special permits
• Top-heavy equipment that increases rollover risk
• Specialized haulers that may lack proper training
• Hazardous material transport with spill risks

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Longview Trucking Accident Case

25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. With over 25 years of experience, he has:

• Recovered multi-million dollar settlements for trucking accident victims
• Taken on major corporations like Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS
• Secured justice for families devastated by catastrophic truck crashes
• Built a reputation that makes trucking companies take our cases seriously

Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is crucial for handling interstate trucking cases that often involve federal regulations and multiple jurisdictions.

Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurers evaluate and minimize claims. This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage in building your case and negotiating settlements.

Proven Track Record of Results

While every case is unique, our firm has a proven track record of securing significant compensation for our clients:

• $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
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

Local Knowledge of Longview Courts and Roads

We know Longview’s trucking corridors, local courts, and the unique challenges our community faces. This local knowledge helps us build stronger cases for our clients.

Compassionate Representation

We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a trucking accident takes on victims and their families. We treat every client like family, providing compassionate support throughout the legal process.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation, so there’s no financial risk to you.

The Attorney911 Difference: Our Insider Advantage

Most personal injury firms don’t have our unique combination of experience and insider knowledge. Here’s what sets us apart:

We Know How Insurance Companies Think

Our team includes attorneys who used to work for insurance companies. We know:

• How they evaluate claims and calculate settlement offers
• What tactics they use to minimize or deny claims
• How to counter their strategies to maximize your recovery
• When they’re bluffing and when they’ll pay

This insider knowledge allows us to negotiate from a position of strength and know when to push for more.

We Prepare Every Case for Trial

While most cases settle before trial, we prepare every case as if it’s going to court. This approach:

• Creates maximum leverage in settlement negotiations
• Shows insurance companies we’re willing to fight
• Ensures we’re ready if the case does go to trial
• Results in better settlements for our clients

Insurance companies know which attorneys are willing to go to trial – and they offer better settlements to clients represented by trial-ready lawyers.

We Have the Resources to Fight Big Trucking Companies

Taking on major trucking companies requires significant resources:

• Accident reconstruction experts to analyze crash dynamics
• Medical specialists to document your injuries
• Vocational experts to calculate lost earning capacity
• Economic experts to determine future care costs
• Investigators to gather evidence and interview witnesses

We have these resources ready to deploy on your case immediately.

We Understand the Human Cost

Beyond the legal and financial aspects, we understand the human cost of trucking accidents:

• The physical pain of recovery
• The emotional trauma of the accident
• The stress of medical bills and lost income
• The impact on your family and relationships

We’re not just fighting for compensation – we’re fighting for your future and your ability to move forward after this devastating experience.

Common Questions About Longview Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after a trucking accident in Longview?

If you’re able, take these steps immediately:

1. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine
3. Document the scene with photos and video if possible
4. Get the truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
5. Collect contact information from witnesses
6. Note the trucking company name and DOT number
7. Preserve evidence (don’t wash clothes, repair your vehicle, etc.)
8. Avoid talking to insurance adjusters without legal representation
9. Contact Attorney911 as soon as possible

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Texas?

Texas has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including trucking accidents. This means you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, you should contact an attorney immediately – waiting too long can result in lost evidence and weaker cases.

How much is my trucking accident case worth?

The value of your case depends on several factors:

• The severity of your injuries
• Your medical expenses (past and future)
• Your lost wages and earning capacity
• The degree of the trucking company’s negligence
• The available insurance coverage
• The impact on your quality of life

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits than typical drivers – often $750,000 to $5,000,000 or more. This means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated fairly, unlike in typical car accidents where insurance may be limited.

Will my case go to trial?

Most trucking accident cases settle before trial. However, we prepare every case as if it’s going to court. This approach:

• Creates maximum leverage in settlement negotiations
• Shows insurance companies we’re willing to fight
• Ensures we’re ready if the case does go to trial
• Results in better settlements for our clients

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

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

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Even if the driver was an independent contractor, both the driver and the trucking company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from all responsible parties.

How long will my case take to resolve?

The timeline varies depending on several factors:

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

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while ensuring you receive fair compensation.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, there may still be avenues for recovery:

• The company’s insurance policy
• The driver’s personal insurance
• Other liable parties (maintenance companies, cargo owners, etc.)
• Bankruptcy trust funds

We explore all possible sources of compensation for our clients.

Can I get punitive damages in my trucking accident case?

Punitive damages may be available in cases involving:

• Gross negligence
• Willful misconduct
• Conscious indifference to safety
• Fraud (such as falsifying log books)
• Evidence spoliation (destroying evidence)

Texas law allows punitive damages up to the greater of:

• Two times economic damages plus non-economic damages (capped at $750,000)
• $200,000

What if I was hit by a truck while walking or biking?

Pedestrians and cyclists hit by trucks often suffer catastrophic injuries. You have the same rights to compensation as vehicle occupants. These cases require special attention to:

• Crosswalk and traffic signal compliance
• Truck driver visibility and blind spots
• Compliance with pedestrian right-of-way laws
• Trucking company policies for urban areas

The Longview Trucking Accident Claims Process

Understanding the claims process can help you know what to expect:

1. Initial Consultation

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

• Review the accident details
• Discuss your injuries and treatment
• Explain your legal rights and options
• Answer your questions about the process

2. Case Investigation

If we take your case, we’ll immediately begin investigating:

• Sending preservation letters to all liable parties
• Collecting and analyzing evidence
• Interviewing witnesses
• Reviewing medical records
• Consulting with experts

3. Medical Treatment and Documentation

We’ll help you:

• Get the medical treatment you need
• Document your injuries thoroughly
• Understand your prognosis and future care needs
• Coordinate with healthcare providers

4. Demand and Negotiation

Once your treatment is complete or we understand your long-term needs, we’ll:

• Prepare a comprehensive demand package
• Calculate all your damages (economic and non-economic)
• Submit the demand to the insurance company
• Negotiate aggressively for fair compensation

5. Litigation (If Necessary)

If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’ll:

• File a lawsuit on your behalf
• Conduct discovery (depositions, document requests, etc.)
• Prepare your case for trial
• Continue negotiating for settlement

6. Resolution

Most cases resolve through:

• Settlement negotiations – The most common outcome
• Mediation – A structured negotiation process with a neutral mediator
• Trial – If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’ll take your case to court

Longview Trucking Accident Success Stories

While every case is unique, here are examples of how we’ve helped trucking accident victims in Texas:

$5+ Million Brain Injury Settlement

A Longview worker was struck by a falling log at a logging company, resulting in traumatic brain injury and permanent vision loss. We proved the company failed to properly secure the load and maintain safe working conditions, securing a multi-million dollar settlement that covered the victim’s lifetime care needs.

$3.8+ Million Amputation Settlement

A client was injured in a car accident when a truck failed to stop in time. During medical treatment, the client developed a staph infection that led to a partial leg amputation. We proved both the original accident and the medical complications, securing compensation for the catastrophic injury.

$2.5+ Million Truck Crash Recovery

We represented a family injured in a collision with a commercial truck on I-20 near Longview. The trucking company initially offered a lowball settlement, but we proved their driver violated hours of service regulations and was fatigued. The case settled for significantly more than the initial offer.

Millions Recovered for Wrongful Death Families

We’ve represented multiple families who lost loved ones in trucking accidents on Longview area highways. In each case, we’ve secured compensation for:

• Lost future income
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Funeral expenses
• Pain and suffering before death

Don’t Wait – Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Longview, Texas, time is critical. Evidence is disappearing every day, and the trucking company is already building its defense.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you take the first steps toward justice.

Remember:

• Evidence disappears fast – Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days
• Insurance companies don’t play fair – They’re already working to minimize your claim
• Texas has strict deadlines – You have only two years to file a lawsuit
• You need a fighter – Trucking companies have teams of lawyers – you deserve the same

At Attorney911, we fight for Longview trucking accident victims like you every day. We know the local roads, the local courts, and how to hold trucking companies accountable. Let us put our experience to work for you.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now for your free consultation. The sooner you call, the stronger your case will be.