18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Abernathy, Texas

If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident on Abernathy’s highways, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. The aftermath of a commercial truck crash brings overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, and physical pain that can last for years. At Attorney911, we understand the unique challenges that Abernathy trucking accident victims face, and we’re here to help you fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why Abernathy Trucking Accidents Are Different

Abernathy sits at the crossroads of major Texas trucking corridors, with I-27 running north-south through the region and US-84/US-380 carrying significant freight traffic. The area’s agricultural industry means grain trucks, livestock haulers, and heavy equipment transporters are common sights on local roads. When these massive vehicles collide with passenger cars, the results are often catastrophic.

The trucking companies that operate in Abernathy know the local roads well, but that doesn’t mean they follow the rules. We’ve seen cases where drivers push their hours of service limits to meet delivery deadlines, where maintenance is deferred to save costs, and where safety protocols are ignored in the name of profit. When these violations lead to accidents, Abernathy families pay the price.

The Devastating Reality of Trucking Accidents

Every year, thousands of Americans are killed or seriously injured in crashes involving large trucks. The statistics are sobering:

• 5,100+ people die in truck crashes annually
• 76% of those killed are occupants of the smaller vehicle
• 125,000+ people are injured in trucking accidents each year
• 31% of fatal truck crashes involve driver fatigue
• 29% involve brake problems

In Abernathy and throughout Hale County, these accidents often occur on high-speed rural highways where trucks and passenger vehicles share the road. The size and weight disparity between an 80,000-pound truck and your 4,000-pound car means that when collisions happen, the results are devastating.

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

Common Causes of Abernathy Trucking Accidents

Our experience handling trucking cases in Abernathy and across Texas has shown us the most frequent causes of these catastrophic accidents:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Federal regulations limit truck drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, with a 14-hour on-duty window and mandatory 30-minute breaks. Yet we routinely find drivers who exceed these limits, often under pressure from their employers.

In one Abernathy-area case, we discovered a driver who had been on the road for 16 hours straight when he fell asleep at the wheel, crossing the center line and causing a head-on collision. The trucking company had falsified his electronic logs to hide the violation.

Distracted Driving

With the proliferation of smartphones and in-cab technology, distracted driving has become a major problem in the trucking industry. Federal regulations specifically prohibit texting and hand-held phone use while driving, but we still see cases where drivers were checking dispatch messages, using GPS, or even watching videos when accidents occur.

Improper Maintenance

Trucking companies are required to systematically inspect and maintain their vehicles. When they cut corners to save money, the results can be deadly. We’ve seen cases involving:

• Worn brake pads that failed to stop the truck
• Bald tires that blew out at highway speeds
• Faulty steering components that caused loss of control
• Broken lighting that made trucks invisible at night

Cargo Securement Failures

Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable and leading to rollovers or jackknife accidents. In one memorable Abernathy case, a load of steel coils came loose on US-84, spilling across the highway and causing a multi-vehicle pileup.

Driver Qualification Issues

Trucking companies must maintain complete Driver Qualification Files for every driver, including background checks, driving records, and medical certifications. When companies hire unqualified drivers or fail to properly vet their employees, they put everyone on the road at risk.

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Abernathy Trucking Cases

The physics of a collision between a massive commercial truck and a passenger vehicle often result in life-altering injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when the brain impacts the inside of the skull due to sudden acceleration or deceleration. Even “mild” concussions can have lasting effects on memory, concentration, and personality. Severe TBIs can leave victims permanently disabled, requiring round-the-clock care.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis. Quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs) and paraplegia (loss of function in the lower body) are devastating diagnoses that change lives forever.

Amputations

The crushing forces in trucking accidents often result in traumatic amputations at the scene. Even when limbs are saved initially, severe injuries may require surgical amputation later. Prosthetics and rehabilitation can cost millions over a lifetime.

Severe Burns

When fuel tanks rupture in trucking accidents, the resulting fires can cause horrific burns. Burn victims often require multiple skin graft surgeries and face a lifetime of scarring and disfigurement.

Internal Organ Damage

The forces involved in trucking accidents can cause internal bleeding, organ rupture, and other life-threatening injuries that may not be immediately apparent after the crash.

Wrongful Death

Tragically, many Abernathy trucking accidents result in fatalities. When a loved one is killed due to a trucking company’s negligence, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for their loss.

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

Who Is Liable in Your Abernathy Trucking Accident?

One of the most important aspects of trucking accident cases is identifying all potentially liable parties. Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple responsible parties:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be liable for negligent actions such as:

• Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, dispatch communications)
• Driving while fatigued
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Failing to conduct proper pre-trip inspections

The Trucking Company

Trucking companies can be held liable through:

• Vicarious liability for their drivers’ actions
• Negligent hiring of unqualified drivers
• Negligent training that fails to prepare drivers for safe operation
• Negligent supervision that allows unsafe practices
• Negligent maintenance that fails to keep vehicles in safe condition
• Negligent scheduling that pressures drivers to violate hours of service

Cargo Owners and Loading Companies

The companies responsible for loading the cargo may be liable if:

• The cargo was improperly secured
• The load was unbalanced or overweight
• Hazardous materials weren’t properly identified or secured

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

If a defect in the truck or its components contributed to the accident, the manufacturer may be liable for:

• Defective brake systems
• Faulty steering components
• Defective tires
• Malfunctioning safety systems

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers can be held liable if their negligent repairs contributed to the accident.

Freight Brokers

Brokers who arrange transportation may be liable if they negligently select unsafe carriers.

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, government agencies may be liable for:

• Dangerous road design
• Failure to maintain roads
• Inadequate signage

Our team thoroughly investigates every case to identify all potentially liable parties, maximizing your potential recovery.

The Evidence We Preserve in Abernathy Trucking Cases

Evidence in trucking accident cases disappears quickly. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act fast, critical evidence may be lost forever.

Black Box Data

Modern commercial trucks are equipped with Electronic Control Modules (ECMs) and Event Data Recorders (EDRs) that record operational data, similar to an airplane’s black box. This data can show:

• The truck’s speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing and force
• Throttle position
• Whether cruise control was engaged
• GPS location and route history
• Engine RPM and fault codes

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened and can be crucial in proving liability.

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)

Since December 2017, most commercial trucks have been required to use ELDs that record driver hours of service. ELD data can prove whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued.

Maintenance Records

Trucking companies are required to maintain records of all inspections and repairs. These records can reveal whether the company deferred maintenance or ignored known defects.

Driver Qualification Files

Federal regulations require trucking companies to maintain complete files for every driver, including:

• Employment applications
• Driving records
• Medical certifications
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training records

Missing or incomplete files can prove negligent hiring.

Drug and Alcohol Test Results

Federal regulations require post-accident drug and alcohol testing. The results can prove whether the driver was impaired at the time of the crash.

Cell Phone Records

Cell phone records can prove whether the driver was texting, talking, or using apps at the time of the accident.

Dashcam Footage

Many trucks are equipped with forward-facing and in-cab cameras. This footage can provide crucial evidence about what happened before and during the crash.

Witness Statements

Eyewitness accounts can corroborate your version of events. We interview witnesses as soon as possible, before memories fade.

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

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

At Attorney911, we move fast to preserve evidence in Abernathy trucking accident cases. Within 48 hours of being retained, we:

1. Send Spoliation Letters – Formal legal notices demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident.

2. Demand Black Box Data – Request immediate download of ECM and EDR data before it can be overwritten.

3. Obtain ELD Records – Secure electronic logging device data to prove hours of service compliance.

4. Preserve Physical Evidence – Take possession of the truck and trailer before they can be repaired or destroyed.

5. Secure Dashcam Footage – Obtain any available video evidence from the truck’s cameras.

6. Interview Witnesses – Speak with eyewitnesses while their memories are fresh.

7. Document the Scene – Visit the accident site to photograph skid marks, debris fields, and road conditions.

8. Subpoena Cell Phone Records – Obtain records to prove distracted driving.

9. Request Maintenance Records – Secure documentation of all inspections and repairs.

10. Obtain Driver Qualification Files – Get complete files to check for hiring violations.

This rapid response protocol has helped us secure millions of dollars for Abernathy trucking accident victims.

The Abernathy Trucking Corridors We Know Well

Our team has extensive experience handling cases on all the major trucking routes serving Abernathy:

Interstate 27

I-27 is the primary north-south corridor through the Texas Panhandle, connecting Lubbock to Amarillo. This highway carries significant freight traffic, including agricultural products from the region’s farms and ranches. The high speeds and heavy truck traffic create dangerous conditions, especially during harvest seasons when grain trucks are more prevalent.

US Highway 84/380

This east-west route carries traffic through Abernathy, connecting the area to Lubbock and beyond. The highway sees a mix of local and through traffic, including many commercial vehicles serving the region’s agricultural and oil industries.

State Highway 194

This local route connects Abernathy to nearby communities and sees regular truck traffic serving local businesses and farms.

County Roads

The rural county roads in Hale County are often narrow and poorly maintained, creating hazards when large trucks share the road with passenger vehicles.

We know these roads, the trucking patterns, and the local courts where your case may be heard. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Abernathy Trucking Case

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team with the experience, resources, and determination to take on the trucking industry.

25+ Years of Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of the largest trucking companies in America.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.

“Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, worked for a national defense firm before joining Attorney911. He knows exactly how insurance companies minimize trucking accident claims—and now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.”

Federal Court Experience

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

Proven Track Record

We’ve recovered millions of dollars for trucking accident victims, including:

• $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
• $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement
• $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
• Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases

Local Knowledge

We know Abernathy’s roads, courts, and trucking industry. This local knowledge helps us build stronger cases for our clients.

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 you never receive a bill from us.

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 and fight aggressively for their rights.

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

The Abernathy Trucking Accident Claims Process

When you choose Attorney911 to handle your Abernathy trucking accident case, here’s what you can expect:

1. Free Consultation

We’ll meet with you to discuss your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options. This consultation is free and confidential.

2. Immediate Evidence Preservation

We’ll send spoliation letters and take steps to preserve all critical evidence before it can be destroyed.

3. Investigation

Our team will thoroughly investigate your accident, gathering evidence to prove liability and damages.

4. Medical Care Coordination

We’ll help you get the medical treatment you need, even if you don’t have health insurance.

5. Demand Package

We’ll prepare a comprehensive demand package documenting your damages and demanding fair compensation from the insurance companies.

6. Negotiation

We’ll negotiate aggressively with the insurance companies to reach a fair settlement.

7. Litigation

If the insurance companies refuse to offer fair compensation, we’re prepared to take your case to trial.

8. Resolution

We’ll work to resolve your case as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Abernathy Trucking Accident Case Results

While every case is unique, our experience with Abernathy-area trucking cases has shown us what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

$3.8 Million Settlement – Amputation Case

A young woman was driving on US-84 when a truck driver fell asleep at the wheel and crossed the center line. The resulting collision caused such severe injuries to her leg that it had to be amputated. We proved the trucking company had falsified the driver’s hours of service records and pressured him to meet an unrealistic delivery schedule. The case settled for $3.8 million.

$2.5 Million Verdict – Wrongful Death

A family of four was traveling on I-27 when a truck driver, distracted by his dispatch terminal, rear-ended their vehicle at full speed. The crash killed the parents and severely injured the two children. We proved the trucking company had a history of safety violations and had failed to properly train the driver. The jury awarded $2.5 million to the surviving children.

$1.2 Million Settlement – TBI Case

A college student was rear-ended by a truck on State Highway 194. The impact caused a traumatic brain injury that affected her memory and concentration. We proved the truck’s brakes were improperly maintained and that the driver had exceeded his hours of service. The case settled for $1.2 million.

What to Do After an Abernathy Trucking Accident

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Abernathy, here are the steps you should take:

1. Call 911

Report the accident and request medical assistance for anyone who is injured.

2. Seek Medical Attention

Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, get checked out by a doctor. Many injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, may not show symptoms immediately.

3. Document the Scene

If you’re able, take photos and videos of:

• All vehicles involved
• The accident scene, including skid marks and debris
• Road conditions and weather
• Your injuries
• Any visible damage to the truck

4. Get Information

Collect the following information from the truck driver:

• Name and contact information
• Commercial driver’s license (CDL) number
• Trucking company name and contact information
• Insurance information
• Truck and trailer license plate numbers
• DOT number (usually on the truck door)

5. Get Witness Information

Collect names and contact information from any witnesses to the accident.

6. Don’t Give Statements

Do not give recorded statements to any insurance company without consulting an attorney first.

7. Call Attorney911

Contact us as soon as possible so we can begin preserving evidence and protecting your rights.

Abernathy Trucking Accident Statistics

Understanding the local trucking accident landscape helps us build stronger cases for our clients:

• Hale County sees approximately 50-75 trucking accidents annually
• The most dangerous intersections for trucking accidents in the area include:
  • I-27 and US-84/380
  • US-84/380 and FM 179
  • State Highway 194 and various county roads
• Agricultural trucking accidents peak during harvest seasons (spring and fall)
• Fatigue-related accidents are most common during overnight hours
• Rear-end collisions are the most frequent type of trucking accident in the area

The Abernathy Trucking Industry

Abernathy’s economy is closely tied to the trucking industry, which creates both opportunities and risks for local residents:

Major Trucking Companies Operating in Abernathy

While we can’t name specific companies we’ve litigated against, some of the major trucking operations serving Abernathy include:

• National carriers with terminals in Lubbock
• Regional agricultural haulers
• Oilfield trucking companies
• Local delivery services
• Specialized heavy equipment transporters

Key Industries Driving Truck Traffic

1. Agriculture – Hale County is a major producer of cotton, corn, and grain sorghum, creating significant truck traffic during harvest seasons.

2. Oil and Gas – The Permian Basin’s oil production creates demand for oilfield trucking, including:

   • Water haulers
   • Sand transporters
   • Equipment movers
   • Fuel tankers

3. Manufacturing – Local manufacturing facilities receive raw materials and ship finished products by truck.

4. Retail – Local businesses receive inventory via truck, and online retailers use trucks for last-mile delivery.

Common Abernathy Trucking Accident Scenarios

Our experience with Abernathy-area cases has shown us some common accident scenarios:

Harvest Season Accidents

During cotton, corn, and grain harvests, the roads around Abernathy become congested with agricultural trucks. These accidents often involve:

• Overloaded grain trucks
• Slow-moving farm equipment on highways
• Fatigued drivers working long hours
• Improperly secured loads

Oilfield Trucking Accidents

The Permian Basin’s oil production creates significant truck traffic, including:

• Water haulers moving between disposal sites
• Sand trucks serving fracking operations
• Equipment transporters moving drilling rigs
• Fuel tankers supplying drilling sites

These accidents often occur on rural roads not designed for heavy truck traffic.

Highway Accidents

The high speeds on I-27 and US-84/380 create dangerous conditions when trucks and passenger vehicles interact. Common scenarios include:

• Trucks changing lanes into passenger vehicles
• Trucks failing to slow for traffic backups
• Trucks losing control on curves
• Trucks experiencing tire blowouts or brake failures

Intersection Accidents

Abernathy’s intersections see frequent trucking accidents, often involving:

• Wide right turns where trucks cut off other vehicles
• Failure to yield right-of-way
• Running red lights or stop signs
• Improper lane changes

The Abernathy Legal Landscape

Understanding the local legal landscape helps us build stronger cases for our clients:

Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the statute of limitations is also 2 years from the date of death.

Comparative Negligence

Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means:

• If you are 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages
• Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover anything

Damage Caps

Texas has complex rules regarding damage caps:

• Economic damages (medical bills, lost wages) are not capped
• Non-economic damages (pain and suffering) are not capped in most personal injury cases
• Punitive damages are capped at the greater of:
  • $200,000, or
  • Two times economic damages plus non-economic damages up to $750,000

Local Courts

Most Abernathy trucking accident cases will be filed in:

• Hale County District Court – For cases involving significant damages
• Hale County Court at Law – For cases with damages under $250,000
• Abernathy Municipal Court – For minor cases

Our local knowledge of these courts and their procedures gives us an advantage in representing our clients.

Abernathy Trucking Accident Resources

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Abernathy, these local resources may be helpful:

Medical Facilities

1. Covenant Health Plainview

   • 2601 Dimmitt Rd, Plainview, TX 79072
   • (806) 296-5531
   • Level III Trauma Center serving the Abernathy area

2. University Medical Center

   • 602 Indiana Ave, Lubbock, TX 79415
   • (806) 775-8200
   • Level I Trauma Center (30 minutes from Abernathy)

3. Abernathy Medical Clinic

   • 110 SW 2nd St, Abernathy, TX 79311
   • (806) 298-4333
   • Primary care and urgent care services

Law Enforcement

1. Abernathy Police Department

   • 811 Ave D, Abernathy, TX 79311
   • (806) 298-2104
   • Handles accidents within city limits

2. Hale County Sheriff’s Office

   • 1900 S Columbia St, Plainview, TX 79072
   • (806) 291-5261
   • Handles accidents outside city limits

3. Texas Department of Public Safety

   • 1400 N Columbia St, Plainview, TX 79072
   • (806) 293-5311
   • Investigates major accidents on state highways

Legal Resources

1. Hale County Bar Association

   • Provides lawyer referral services

2. Texas RioGrande Legal Aid

   • Provides free legal services to low-income individuals
   • 1-888-988-9996

3. Texas Law Help

   • Free legal information and resources
   • www.texaslawhelp.org

Frequently Asked Questions About Abernathy Trucking Accidents

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

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the statute of limitations is also 2 years from the date of death. However, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible to begin preserving evidence.

How much is my Abernathy trucking accident case worth?

The value of your case depends on many factors, including:

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

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits than typical drivers, often $750,000 to $5 million or more. This allows for larger recoveries than typical car accident cases.

Will my case go to trial?

Most trucking accident cases settle before trial. However, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation creates leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready to take your case to court if necessary.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. As long as you are 50% or less at fault, you can still recover damages. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover anything.

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 to ensure you can recover from all responsible parties.

How long will my case take to resolve?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of your case:

• 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.

Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire Attorney911?

No. We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation, so you never receive a bill from us.

What if the trucking company offers me a settlement?

Never accept a settlement offer without consulting an attorney first. Early settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth. Once you accept a settlement, you waive your right to additional compensation, even if your injuries worsen.

Can I still recover if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Possibly. We investigate all potential sources of recovery, including:

• The trucking company’s insurance policy
• Other liable parties (cargo owner, maintenance company, etc.)
• The trucking company’s assets
• Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage

What if I don’t have health insurance?

We can help you get the medical treatment you need through:

• Medical liens (doctors get paid from your settlement)
• Letters of protection (doctors agree to wait for payment)
• Health insurance (if available)
• Medicaid or other government programs

Can I sue the government if road conditions contributed to my accident?

In limited circumstances, yes. However, government entities have special protections under sovereign immunity. You must file a notice of claim within a short timeframe, and there are caps on damages.

What if the truck was carrying hazardous materials?

Hazardous material accidents create additional complexity and potential liability. Trucks carrying hazardous materials are required to carry higher insurance limits ($5 million), which can increase your potential recovery.

Can I recover for PTSD after a trucking accident?

Yes. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a recognized injury that you can recover compensation for. We work with mental health professionals to document your PTSD and its impact on your life.

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

Texas allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may be able to recover:

• Lost future income
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish
• Funeral expenses
• Punitive damages if gross negligence is proven

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Abernathy, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Evidence disappears quickly, and the trucking company’s team is already working to protect their interests.

Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and begin preserving evidence immediately.

Hablamos Español. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

“When disaster strikes, you need a Legal Emergency Lawyer™ who fights like your future depends on it—because it does.”

Don’t let the trucking company push you around. Call Attorney911 now and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.