18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Plainview, Texas
If you’ve been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident on Plainview’s highways or local roads, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team that understands the unique challenges of trucking cases in our community. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across the Texas Panhandle for over 25 years, and we know exactly how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.
Why Plainview Trucking Accidents Are Different
Plainview sits at the crossroads of some of Texas’s busiest trucking corridors. Our location along US Highway 70 and proximity to major freight routes like I-27 and US Highway 87 means we see more than our share of commercial vehicle traffic. The trucks passing through our community aren’t just local deliveries – they’re long-haul carriers moving goods between major distribution centers, oil fields, and agricultural processing facilities.
The trucking companies operating in Plainview know the roads well, but that doesn’t stop them from cutting corners on safety. We’ve seen cases where drivers push their hours to meet tight delivery schedules, where maintenance gets deferred to save costs, and where companies fail to properly train drivers on the unique hazards of our region’s roads.
The Devastating Reality of Plainview Truck Crashes
The statistics are sobering: every year, thousands of Texans are injured or killed in accidents involving large commercial trucks. In Hale County and the surrounding Panhandle region, these accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to:
- The massive size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers (up to 80,000 pounds) and passenger vehicles
- The higher speeds on our rural highways compared to urban areas
- The unique challenges of our road conditions, including sudden weather changes
- The long distances many trucks travel without proper rest breaks
When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often tragic. Victims frequently suffer:
- Traumatic brain injuries that can change lives forever
- Spinal cord damage leading to paralysis
- Multiple fractures requiring extensive surgery
- Severe burns from fuel fires or hazardous cargo
- Amputations when limbs are crushed beyond repair
- Wrongful death of loved ones
Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Plainview
Our experience handling Plainview trucking accident cases has revealed several recurring patterns:
1. Driver Fatigue on Long Hauls
Many trucks passing through Plainview are traveling between major hubs like Lubbock, Amarillo, and the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Drivers often push their hours of service limits to meet delivery deadlines, leading to dangerous fatigue. Federal regulations limit drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, but we frequently find violations in the electronic logging device (ELD) data we obtain.
2. Improper Cargo Securement
Plainview’s agricultural industry means we see many trucks carrying grain, livestock, and other farm products. Improperly secured loads can shift during transit, causing rollovers or cargo spills that create hazards for other motorists. We’ve handled cases where loose hay bales, shifting grain loads, or even escaped livestock have caused serious accidents.
3. Brake Failures on Our Grades
The terrain around Plainview includes some significant elevation changes, particularly on routes leading to the Caprock Escarpment. Trucks descending these grades can experience brake fade if their braking systems aren’t properly maintained. We’ve seen cases where overheated brakes failed completely, leading to runaway trucks and catastrophic collisions.
4. Tire Blowouts from Heat and Road Conditions
Texas heat takes a toll on truck tires, and our region’s roads – with their mix of smooth highways and rougher county roads – create additional stress. Underinflated tires, worn treads, or manufacturing defects can lead to sudden blowouts that cause drivers to lose control.
5. Distracted and Impaired Driving
Despite strict regulations, we still encounter cases where truck drivers were distracted by cell phones, dispatch communications, or in-cab electronics. Alcohol and drug use, including prescription medications that impair driving ability, also contribute to accidents.
6. Inadequate Training for Rural Road Conditions
Many truck drivers are trained primarily for urban or interstate driving. The unique challenges of our rural roads – including narrower lanes, fewer shoulders, and different traffic patterns – can catch inexperienced drivers off guard.
The Trucking Companies We’ve Fought in Plainview Cases
In our decades of handling trucking accident cases in Plainview and throughout the Texas Panhandle, we’ve gone up against some of the nation’s largest carriers:
- National Freight Carriers: We’ve represented clients against major carriers like Swift Transportation, Werner Enterprises, and J.B. Hunt – companies that regularly pass through our region.
- Agricultural Haulers: Local and regional carriers specializing in grain, livestock, and other farm products.
- Oil Field Service Companies: Trucks serving the energy industry, including those hauling drilling equipment, fracking materials, and oilfield waste.
- Retail Distribution: Walmart, Amazon, and other retailers with distribution centers in the region.
- Local Delivery Services: Companies making deliveries to Plainview businesses and residents.
Why You Need a Plainview Trucking Accident Lawyer Immediately
Time is critical in trucking accident cases. Evidence disappears quickly, and trucking companies move fast to protect their interests. Here’s what happens in the hours and days after a truck crash:
Within Minutes:
- The trucking company’s rapid-response team is notified
- Insurance adjusters begin working to minimize the company’s liability
- Drivers may receive instructions on what to say (or not say) to authorities
Within Hours:
- The truck may be moved for repairs, destroying physical evidence
- Dashcam footage could be deleted
- The driver may be interviewed by company representatives
Within Days:
- Electronic logging device (ELD) data can be overwritten
- Black box/ECM data may be lost
- Witness memories begin to fade
- Physical evidence at the scene disappears
Within Weeks:
- Maintenance records may be “lost”
- Driver qualification files might be altered
- The truck could be put back into service with new parts
This is why we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained. These legal notices demand that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to your accident, including:
- ECM/black box data showing speed, braking, and engine performance
- ELD records documenting hours of service
- Driver qualification files
- Maintenance and inspection records
- Dispatch logs and trip records
- Cell phone records
- Dashcam and surveillance footage
- The physical truck and trailer
How We Build Strong Cases for Plainview Trucking Accident Victims
Our approach combines local knowledge with national-level resources:
1. Immediate Evidence Preservation
We act fast to secure all available evidence before it disappears. This includes sending spoliation letters, obtaining police reports, and collecting witness statements while memories are fresh.
2. Comprehensive Accident Reconstruction
We work with top accident reconstruction experts who can:
- Analyze skid marks and vehicle damage
- Reconstruct the sequence of events
- Determine speeds and braking patterns
- Identify contributing factors
3. Thorough Investigation of FMCSA Violations
We obtain and analyze:
- The carrier’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) scores
- Inspection history and out-of-service violations
- Crash history
- Safety rating
- Driver’s qualification file and employment history
4. Medical Documentation and Future Care Planning
We work with your medical providers to:
- Document all injuries and treatments
- Project future medical needs
- Calculate lifetime care costs
- Establish the impact on your quality of life
5. Economic Impact Analysis
We calculate:
- Past and future lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Property damage
6. Expert Witness Testimony
We retain specialists in:
- Trucking safety and regulations
- Accident reconstruction
- Medical treatment and prognosis
- Vocational rehabilitation
- Economic damages
- Life care planning
The Types of Compensation Available in Plainview Trucking Cases
Texas law allows truck accident victims to recover both economic and non-economic damages:
Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Home modifications for disabilities
- Rehabilitation costs
- Assistive devices and medical equipment
Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life Impacts):
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Physical impairment
- Loss of consortium (impact on family relationships)
Punitive Damages:
In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, Texas law may allow punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. These are available when the trucking company or driver acted with conscious indifference to the safety of others.
Common Trucking Accident Scenarios in Plainview
Highway Collisions on US 70 and US 87
Many of our most serious cases occur on the major highways passing through and around Plainview. These high-speed collisions often result in catastrophic injuries due to the combined speeds of vehicles traveling in opposite directions.
Intersection Accidents at Major Crossings
Plainview’s busiest intersections – like those at US 70 and I-27, or US 87 and FM 3466 – see frequent truck traffic. We’ve handled cases involving:
- Trucks running red lights or stop signs
- Wide right turns that cut off other vehicles
- Underride collisions where passenger vehicles slide under trailers
- Rear-end collisions when trucks fail to stop in time
Rural Road Accidents
Many of our trucking cases occur on the rural roads serving Hale County’s agricultural areas. These accidents often involve:
- Limited visibility at unmarked intersections
- Poor road conditions and lack of shoulders
- Livestock or wildlife on the roadway
- Dust storms that reduce visibility
- Narrow bridges and tight curves
Distribution Center and Warehouse Accidents
Plainview’s growing role as a regional distribution hub means we’re seeing more accidents in and around warehouses and loading docks, including:
- Backing accidents in parking lots
- Forklift collisions
- Loading dock falls
- Cargo loading accidents
The Legal Process for Plainview Trucking Accident Cases
1. Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
We offer free, no-obligation consultations where we’ll:
- Listen to your story
- Evaluate the strength of your case
- Explain your legal options
- Answer all your questions
2. Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Our team immediately begins:
- Sending spoliation letters to preserve evidence
- Obtaining police reports and accident scene photos
- Collecting witness statements
- Securing electronic data from the truck
- Reviewing medical records
3. Medical Treatment and Documentation
We help you:
- Get the medical care you need
- Document all injuries and treatments
- Understand your prognosis
- Project future medical needs
4. Demand Letter and Negotiation
We prepare a comprehensive demand package that includes:
- Detailed account of how the accident occurred
- Documentation of all damages
- Legal arguments supporting liability
- Settlement demand amount
5. Litigation (If Necessary)
If the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we’re prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to trial. This may involve:
- Filing the complaint in Hale County District Court
- Conducting discovery (depositions, document requests)
- Retaining expert witnesses
- Preparing for trial
6. Resolution
Most cases settle before trial, but we’re always prepared to go to court if that’s what it takes to get you fair compensation. We’ll advise you on all settlement offers and help you make informed decisions about your case.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Plainview Trucking Accident Case
1. Local Knowledge and Experience
We know Plainview’s roads, courts, and community. Our team understands:
- The unique traffic patterns in our area
- The local court system and judges
- The types of trucking accidents common in our region
- The medical providers and facilities available to treat your injuries
2. Proven Track Record of Results
Our firm has recovered millions of dollars for trucking accident victims, including:
- Multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injury cases
- Significant recoveries for families in wrongful death claims
- Compensation for victims of all types of trucking accidents
3. Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics
Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers operate. He understands:
- How adjusters are trained to minimize claims
- The strategies used to deny or delay compensation
- How to counter these tactics effectively
4. Comprehensive Resources
We have the resources to handle even the most complex trucking accident cases, including:
- Relationships with top accident reconstruction experts
- Access to medical specialists who can document your injuries
- Financial experts to calculate economic damages
- Vocational experts to assess lost earning capacity
5. Personalized Attention
Unlike large firms that treat you like a case number, we provide personalized attention throughout your case. You’ll work directly with our attorneys, not just paralegals or case managers.
6. No Fee Unless We Win
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means:
- You pay nothing upfront
- We advance all costs of investigating and litigating your case
- You only pay if we recover compensation for you
- Our fee comes from the settlement, not from your pocket
What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Plainview
If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Plainview or anywhere in Hale County, take these steps to protect your rights:
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel fine, get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away.
2. Call the Police and File a Report
A police report creates an official record of the accident and is crucial evidence for your case.
3. Document the Scene
If you’re able, take photos and videos of:
- All vehicles involved
- Vehicle damage
- Skid marks and debris
- Road conditions
- Traffic signs and signals
- Your injuries
4. Get Information from the Truck Driver
Collect:
- Driver’s name and contact information
- Commercial driver’s license (CDL) number
- Trucking company name and contact information
- Insurance information
- Truck and trailer license plate numbers
- USDOT number (usually on the truck door)
5. Get Witness Information
Collect names and contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident.
6. Don’t Give Statements to Insurance Companies
The trucking company’s insurance adjuster will likely contact you quickly. Politely decline to give a statement until you’ve spoken with an attorney.
7. Contact a Plainview Trucking Accident Attorney
Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. The sooner we get involved, the better we can protect your rights.
Common Questions About Plainview Trucking Accidents
How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Plainview?
Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including trucking accidents. However, you should never wait this long to take action. Evidence disappears quickly, and your case will be much stronger if we can start investigating immediately.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation as long as you were not more than 50% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, you would recover 80% of your damages.
How much is my trucking accident case worth?
The value of your case depends on many factors, including:
- The severity of your injuries
- The cost of your medical treatment
- Your lost wages and earning capacity
- The impact on your quality of life
- The degree of the trucking company’s negligence
- Available insurance coverage
Every case is unique, and we can’t provide an exact value without reviewing the specific details of your situation. However, trucking accident cases often result in higher compensation than typical car accident cases due to the severity of injuries and the higher insurance limits carried by commercial carriers.
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 for your injuries. We’ll investigate the relationship between the driver and the company to determine all potentially liable parties.
What if the trucking company is based out of state?
Trucking companies operating in Texas must comply with our laws and can be sued in Texas courts, regardless of where they’re based. We have experience handling cases against out-of-state carriers and know how to navigate the legal complexities.
Can I still recover compensation if the truck driver was never ticketed?
Yes. Police officers don’t always issue citations at accident scenes, and their determination of fault isn’t binding on your civil case. We’ll conduct our own investigation to determine liability.
What if the trucking company’s insurance offers me a quick settlement?
Be very cautious about accepting any settlement offer without consulting an attorney. Quick settlement offers are almost always lowball offers designed to pay you far less than your case is worth. Once you accept a settlement, you can’t go back and ask for more money later, even if your injuries turn out to be more serious than you initially thought.
Plainview’s Trucking Corridors: Where Accidents Happen
Plainview sits at the intersection of several major trucking routes that see heavy commercial traffic:
US Highway 70
Running east-west through Plainview, US 70 is a major trucking corridor connecting the Texas Panhandle to New Mexico and beyond. This highway sees significant traffic from:
- Agricultural haulers transporting grain, cotton, and other farm products
- Oil field service trucks serving the energy industry
- Long-haul carriers moving goods between distribution centers
US Highway 87
This north-south route passes through Plainview, connecting Lubbock to Amarillo and points north. Truck traffic includes:
- Livestock haulers
- Retail distribution trucks
- Heavy equipment transporters
Interstate 27
While I-27 doesn’t pass directly through Plainview, it’s a major route connecting Lubbock to Amarillo that many trucks use to bypass smaller towns. This interstate sees:
- High-speed long-haul traffic
- Hazardous materials transports
- Heavy loads moving between major cities
FM 3466 and Other Farm-to-Market Roads
These rural routes serve Hale County’s agricultural areas and see heavy truck traffic, particularly during harvest seasons. Accidents on these roads often involve:
- Overloaded farm equipment
- Grain trucks with shifting loads
- Dust storms reducing visibility
Local Roads Serving Distribution Centers
Plainview’s growing role as a regional distribution hub means increased truck traffic on local roads serving warehouses and distribution centers. These areas see:
- Backing accidents in parking lots
- Congestion at loading docks
- Maneuvering accidents in tight spaces
The Role of Weather in Plainview Trucking Accidents
Our region’s weather creates unique challenges for truck drivers:
Dust Storms
The Texas Panhandle is known for sudden dust storms that can reduce visibility to near zero. Trucks traveling at highway speeds can quickly become hazards when they encounter these conditions.
Sudden Rainstorms
Our region can experience intense rainstorms that create slick road conditions. Trucks require much longer stopping distances on wet roads, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.
Temperature Extremes
The wide temperature swings in our region can affect truck performance. Extreme heat can cause tire blowouts, while cold temperatures can affect engine performance and braking systems.
Wind Gusts
High winds are common in our area and can affect high-profile trailers, potentially causing loss of control or even rollovers.
Holding Plainview Trucking Companies Accountable
At Attorney911, we understand that trucking accidents don’t just happen – they’re caused by negligence. We hold trucking companies accountable for:
Negligent Hiring Practices
Many trucking companies cut corners when hiring drivers, failing to:
- Conduct thorough background checks
- Verify driving records
- Confirm proper licensing
- Check for previous accidents or violations
Inadequate Training
Proper training is essential for safe truck operation, but many companies:
- Provide minimal training to save costs
- Fail to train drivers on the specific hazards of our region’s roads
- Don’t provide adequate safety instruction
Poor Maintenance
Trucking companies are required to maintain their vehicles in safe operating condition, but many:
- Defer maintenance to save money
- Fail to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
- Ignore known mechanical issues
- Use substandard or worn parts
Unrealistic Scheduling
Many trucking companies pressure drivers to meet tight delivery schedules, leading to:
- Hours of service violations
- Speeding to make up time
- Skipping required rest breaks
- Driving while fatigued
Improper Cargo Loading
Improperly loaded cargo can cause trucks to become unstable, leading to:
- Rollovers on curves
- Cargo spills creating road hazards
- Shifting loads affecting vehicle handling
The Attorney911 Difference: Fighting for Plainview’s Truck Accident Victims
When you choose Attorney911 to handle your Plainview trucking accident case, you’re getting more than just legal representation – you’re getting a team that’s committed to fighting for justice on your behalf. Here’s what sets us apart:
1. We Move Fast to Preserve Evidence
We understand that evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. That’s why we:
- Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
- Demand immediate preservation of black box data
- Secure dashcam footage before it’s deleted
- Obtain witness statements while memories are fresh
2. We Know How to Counter Insurance Company Tactics
Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers operate. We understand:
- The strategies they use to minimize claims
- The arguments they make to deny compensation
- The tactics they employ to delay payments
3. We Have the Resources to Fight Big Trucking Companies
We’ve gone up against some of the nation’s largest trucking companies and won. We have:
- Relationships with top accident reconstruction experts
- Access to medical specialists who can document your injuries
- Financial experts to calculate economic damages
- Vocational experts to assess lost earning capacity
4. We Provide Personalized Attention
Unlike large firms that treat you like a case number, we provide personalized attention throughout your case. You’ll work directly with our attorneys, not just paralegals or case managers.
5. We’re Not Afraid to Go to Trial
While most cases settle out of court, we’re always prepared to take your case to trial if that’s what it takes to get you fair compensation. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.
6. We Work on Contingency – You Pay Nothing Unless We Win
We believe everyone deserves access to quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis:
- You pay nothing upfront
- We advance all costs of investigating and litigating your case
- You only pay if we recover compensation for you
- Our fee comes from the settlement, not from your pocket
Plainview Trucking Accident Resources
If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Plainview, these local resources may be helpful:
Medical Facilities:
- Covenant Hospital Plainview: (806) 296-5531
- Plainview Regional Medical Center: (806) 296-5531
- Urgent Care clinics throughout the area
Law Enforcement:
- Plainview Police Department: (806) 296-1182
- Hale County Sheriff’s Office: (806) 291-5261
- Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): (806) 293-5351
Legal Resources:
- Hale County District Clerk: (806) 296-1141
- Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): (806) 296-1100
Support Services:
- Plainview Area United Way: (806) 296-5531
- Local victim assistance programs
Contact Attorney911 Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Plainview or anywhere in Hale County, don’t wait to get the help you need. Every minute that passes is another minute that critical evidence could be disappearing.
Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your legal options, and help you understand the best path forward. Our team is available 24/7 to take your call and begin protecting your rights.
Remember, the trucking company has lawyers working to protect their interests – shouldn’t you have someone fighting for yours? At Attorney911, we’re ready to stand up for you and help you get the compensation you deserve.
“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client
Don’t let the trucking company push you around. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 and let us fight for you. Hablamos Español.