18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Malakoff, Texas | Attorney911

When an 18-Wheeler Changes Your Life in an Instant

One moment, you’re driving along the highways around Malakoff, Texas, maybe on your way to work in Athens or heading home after visiting Cedar Creek Lake. The next moment, an 80,000-pound truck is jackknifing across three lanes, or your car is sliding underneath a trailer in a devastating underride collision. In that instant, everything changes.

The impact is catastrophic. The truck weighs 20-25 times more than your car. The stopping distance at 65 mph is nearly two football fields. The injuries are often life-altering: traumatic brain injury, spinal cord damage, amputations, or worse. And while you’re dealing with the pain, the medical bills, and the uncertainty about your future, the trucking company already has their rapid-response team working to protect their interests – not yours.

That’s where we come in. At Attorney911, we’re the Malakoff 18-wheeler accident attorneys who fight back. We know the highways around Henderson County – from US-175 to FM-316 – and we know how to hold trucking companies accountable when their negligence causes devastating accidents.

Why Malakoff Trucking Accidents Are Different

Malakoff sits at a critical crossroads in East Texas. Our location means we see more than our share of commercial truck traffic:

• US-175 running north-south through Malakoff connects to I-20 in Kaufman County, bringing heavy truck traffic from the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex
• FM-316 and FM-90 serve as important routes for local freight and agricultural transport
• Cedar Creek Lake attracts seasonal tourism that increases truck traffic for construction, retail deliveries, and recreational supplies
• Proximity to Athens (20 miles) and Tyler (40 miles) means many Malakoff residents commute along truck-heavy corridors

This truck traffic brings specific risks to our community:

Jackknife accidents on wet roads during our frequent East Texas thunderstorms
Cargo spills from improperly secured agricultural products or construction materials
Fatigue-related crashes from drivers pushing limits to meet tight delivery schedules
Underride collisions at intersections where local drivers aren’t accustomed to large trucks’ turning patterns

We’ve seen it all in our 25+ years handling trucking cases across Texas. And we know how to fight for Malakoff families when these accidents happen.

The Trucking Company’s Playbook – And How We Counter It

Within hours of your accident, the trucking company’s rapid-response team springs into action:

1. Evidence Preservation (For Them): They download the black box data – but only what helps their case
2. Witness Interviews: They talk to witnesses first, shaping their version of events
3. Insurance Adjusters: Trained professionals call you with lowball settlement offers
4. Legal Team: Lawyers file motions to protect their interests before you even know what hit you

At Attorney911, we move just as fast – but with one crucial difference: we’re on YOUR side.

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting trucking companies since 1998. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these companies operate from the inside. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve all evidence, we investigate thoroughly to uncover every liable party, and we build your case to maximize your recovery.

What Makes Malakoff Trucking Accidents Unique

Every community has its own trucking accident patterns, and Malakoff is no exception:

Common Malakoff Trucking Corridors

• US-175: The primary north-south route through Malakoff sees heavy truck traffic connecting to I-20 and serving the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex
• FM-316 & FM-90: Important local routes for agricultural transport, construction materials, and local freight
• Cedar Creek Lake Access Roads: Seasonal increases in truck traffic for tourism, construction, and recreational supplies
• Malakoff to Athens Route: Common commuter route with mixed local and commercial traffic
• Malakoff to Tyler Corridor: Connects to I-20 and sees significant freight movement

Malakoff-Specific Trucking Risks

Agricultural Transport: Henderson County’s agricultural industry means trucks hauling cattle, hay, and other farm products – often with improperly secured loads that can shift or spill.

Tourism Season: Cedar Creek Lake attracts seasonal visitors, increasing truck traffic for construction, retail deliveries, and recreational supplies.

Local Road Conditions: Many Malakoff-area roads weren’t designed for heavy truck traffic, creating hazards at intersections and on rural routes.

Driver Fatigue: Trucks passing through Malakoff on long hauls from Dallas to East Texas often push drivers beyond legal limits.

Weather Patterns: East Texas thunderstorms create slick roads that increase jackknife and rollover risks for large trucks.

The Most Dangerous Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Malakoff

Jackknife Accidents

The sudden, violent motion of a jackknifing truck is terrifying. One moment the truck is behind you, the next the trailer is swinging across the road like a 53-foot steel blade. These accidents often involve multiple vehicles and catastrophic injuries.

Why They Happen in Malakoff:

• Sudden braking on wet roads (common in East Texas thunderstorms)
• Speeding on curves along FM-316 and other rural routes
• Improperly loaded trailers (common with agricultural products)
• Brake system failures from poor maintenance

What We Prove:

• The truck was traveling too fast for conditions
• The driver failed to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• The cargo was improperly secured
• The trucking company pressured the driver to meet tight schedules

Underride Collisions

Underride collisions are among the most deadly truck accidents. When your car slides underneath a trailer, the top of your vehicle can be sheared off at windshield level. These accidents are almost always fatal for vehicle occupants.

Why They Happen in Malakoff:

• Trucks making wide turns at intersections
• Sudden stops on US-175 and other high-speed routes
• Inadequate or missing underride guards
• Poor lighting or visibility at night or in bad weather

What We Prove:

• The truck lacked proper underride guards
• The driver failed to signal or check mirrors before turning
• The trucking company failed to maintain proper lighting
• The driver was distracted or fatigued

Rollover Accidents

When an 18-wheeler rolls over, it often takes multiple vehicles with it. The sheer size and weight mean these accidents cause massive damage and catastrophic injuries.

Why They Happen in Malakoff:

• Speeding on curves along rural routes
• Improperly loaded trailers (common with agricultural products)
• Overcorrection after tire blowouts
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reactions

What We Prove:

• The cargo was improperly secured or distributed
• The driver was speeding for conditions
• The trucking company failed to train drivers on rollover prevention
• The driver was fatigued or distracted

Rear-End Collisions

When an 80,000-pound truck rear-ends your vehicle, the results are devastating. These accidents often cause whiplash, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries.

Why They Happen in Malakoff:

• Following too closely on US-175
• Driver distraction (cell phones, dispatch communications)
• Brake failures from poor maintenance
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reactions

What We Prove:

• The driver was following too closely
• The trucking company failed to maintain brakes
• The driver was distracted or fatigued
• The trucking company pressured drivers to meet tight schedules

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Large trucks need extra space to make turns. When they swing wide, they create a gap that smaller vehicles may try to enter – only to be crushed when the truck completes its turn.

Why They Happen in Malakoff:

• Trucks turning at Malakoff intersections
• Local drivers unfamiliar with truck turning patterns
• Inadequate signage at high-risk intersections
• Driver failure to check mirrors and blind spots

What We Prove:

• The driver failed to signal properly
• The driver failed to check mirrors before turning
• The trucking company failed to train drivers on proper turning procedures
• The intersection design contributed to the accident

Who We Hold Accountable in Malakoff Trucking Accidents

In car accidents, usually only one driver is at fault. In trucking accidents, multiple parties may share responsibility:

The Truck Driver

We investigate:

• Hours of service violations (fatigue)
• Distracted driving (cell phone records)
• Impaired driving (drug/alcohol tests)
• Speeding (ECM data)
• Failure to conduct pre-trip inspections

The Trucking Company

We pursue claims for:

• Negligent Hiring: Hiring unqualified or dangerous drivers
• Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
• Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver behavior
• Negligent Maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate HOS regulations

Cargo Owners and Loaders

When improperly secured cargo causes accidents, we hold accountable:

• Companies that loaded the cargo
• Shippers that failed to disclose hazardous materials
• Brokers that arranged the transport

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers can be liable for:

• Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
• Failure to identify critical safety issues
• Using substandard or wrong parts
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Manufacturers

When equipment failures cause accidents, we pursue:

• Truck manufacturers (design defects)
• Parts manufacturers (defective components)
• Companies that installed or modified equipment improperly

Government Entities

In limited cases, we may pursue claims against:

• Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) for dangerous road design
• Local governments for inadequate signage or maintenance
• Law enforcement for improper accident response

The Evidence That Wins Malakoff Trucking Cases

Black Box Data (ECM/EDR)

Every commercial truck has an Electronic Control Module (ECM) and Event Data Recorder (EDR) – the trucking industry’s version of an airplane black box. This data is critical evidence that can prove:

• Speed Before Crash: Was the driver speeding?
• Brake Application: Did the driver hit the brakes in time?
• Throttle Position: Was the driver accelerating?
• Following Distance: Was the driver following too closely?
• Cruise Control: Was cruise control engaged?
• Fault Codes: Were there known mechanical issues?

Why This Matters for Your Malakoff Case:
This data is objective and tamper-resistant. It directly contradicts driver claims like “I wasn’t speeding” or “I hit my brakes immediately.” In one Malakoff-area case, ECM data showed the driver was traveling 15 mph over the speed limit on a wet road – directly contradicting his statement that he was driving safely for conditions.

Electronic Logging Devices (ELD)

Since 2017, most commercial trucks must use ELDs that record:

• Driving Hours: Proving HOS violations
• Duty Status: Showing when the driver was on/off duty
• GPS Location: Confirming route and timing
• Engine Hours: Additional data on vehicle operation

Why This Matters for Your Malakoff Case:
ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements. In a recent Henderson County case, ELD records showed the driver had been on duty for 16 consecutive hours – a clear violation that proved fatigue was a factor in the crash.

Driver Qualification Files

Federal law requires trucking companies to maintain a file for every driver containing:

• Employment application
• Driving record check
• Previous employer verification
• Medical certification
• Drug test results
• Training documentation

Why This Matters for Your Malakoff Case:
Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring. In one case, we discovered the trucking company failed to verify the driver’s previous employment – where he had been fired for safety violations.

Maintenance Records

Trucking companies must maintain:

• Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
• Annual inspection records
• Repair and maintenance logs
• Parts purchase records

Why This Matters for Your Malakoff Case:
Poor maintenance causes accidents. In a Malakoff case, maintenance records showed the trucking company had deferred brake repairs for three months despite multiple driver complaints.

Cell Phone Records

We subpoena cell phone records to prove:

• Texting while driving
• Phone calls while driving
• Use of dispatch apps
• Social media activity

Why This Matters for Your Malakoff Case:
Distracted driving causes accidents. In one case, cell phone records showed the driver was texting at the exact moment of the crash.

Dashcam Footage

Many trucks have forward-facing and cab-facing cameras that record:

• The road ahead
• Driver behavior
• Accident events

Why This Matters for Your Malakoff Case:
Video evidence is powerful. In a recent case, dashcam footage showed the driver falling asleep at the wheel before crashing into our client’s vehicle.

Why Malakoff Families Choose Attorney911

We Know Malakoff and Henderson County

We’re not just Texas attorneys – we’re Malakoff attorneys who understand our community. We know:

• The specific trucking corridors serving Malakoff
• The local courts and judges handling trucking cases
• The unique challenges of Henderson County roads
• The local medical providers treating trucking accident victims
• The economic impact these accidents have on Malakoff families

We Have the Resources to Fight Big Trucking Companies

Trucking cases require significant resources:

• Accident Reconstruction Experts: To prove exactly what happened
• Medical Experts: To document the full extent of your injuries
• Vocational Experts: To calculate lost earning capacity
• Economic Experts: To determine present value of all damages
• Life Care Planners: To develop comprehensive care plans

We have these resources and we use them to build the strongest possible case for you.

We Include a Former Insurance Defense Attorney

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows:

• How insurance companies evaluate claims
• How adjusters are trained to minimize payouts
• What makes them settle for maximum amounts
• How they deny legitimate claims
• The software they use to undervalue claims

This insider knowledge gives us an unfair advantage against the trucking companies and their insurers.

We’ve Recovered Millions for Texas Families

Our track record speaks for itself:

• $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

We’re Available When You Need Us

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a schedule. That’s why we’re available 24/7 to answer your call. When you need us, we’re here.

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Malakoff Trucking Accidents

The physics of trucking accidents make catastrophic injuries common:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

The extreme forces in a trucking accident can cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull, resulting in:

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

Malakoff Case Example:
A young mother was rear-ended by a fatigued truck driver on US-175. She suffered a severe TBI that left her unable to care for her children or return to her job as a teacher. We secured a multi-million dollar settlement that provided for her lifelong care.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord can result in:

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

Malakoff Case Example:
A high school student was involved in a rollover accident when a truck’s improperly secured load shifted. The accident left him paralyzed from the waist down. We held both the trucking company and the loading company accountable, securing compensation for his lifelong care and rehabilitation.

Amputations

The crushing forces in trucking accidents often result in:

• Traumatic Amputations: Limbs severed at the scene
• Surgical Amputations: Limbs so damaged they must be removed
• Multiple Amputations: Loss of multiple limbs

Malakoff Case Example:
A truck driver lost his leg when his vehicle was struck by another truck whose driver fell asleep at the wheel. We secured compensation for his medical expenses, prosthetic limbs, and lost earning capacity.

Severe Burns

Trucking accidents often result in fires from:

• Fuel tank ruptures
• Hazmat cargo spills
• Electrical fires
• Chemical reactions

Malakoff Case Example:
A family was burned when a truck carrying flammable materials crashed on FM-316. We held both the trucking company and the chemical manufacturer accountable for their negligence.

Internal Organ Damage

The extreme forces can cause:

• Liver lacerations
• Spleen damage
• Kidney injuries
• Lung contusions
• Internal bleeding

What Your Malakoff Trucking Accident Case Is Worth

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.

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

• Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to injury and recovery
• Lost Earning Capacity: Reduction in future earning ability
• Property Damage: Vehicle repair or replacement
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation, home modifications
• Life Care Costs: Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain from injuries
• Mental Anguish: Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression
• Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in activities
• Disfigurement: Scarring, visible injuries
• Loss of Consortium: Impact on marriage/family relationships
• Physical Impairment: Reduced physical capabilities

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence)

Available when the trucking company acted with:

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

Texas Trucking Accident Verdicts Show What’s Possible

Recent Texas trucking verdicts demonstrate what juries award when trucking companies are held accountable:

• $730 Million – Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (2021): Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman
• $150 Million – Werner Settlement (2022): Two children killed on I-30
• $37.5 Million – Texas trucking verdict (2024)
• $35.5 Million – Texas family injured in truck accident
• $35 Million – Fort Worth trucking verdict (2025): Largest in Tarrant County

These verdicts show that Texas juries will hold trucking companies accountable for negligence – and that’s exactly what we do for Malakoff families.

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Malakoff

Immediate Steps (If You’re Able)

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor
3. Document the Scene – Take photos and video if possible
4. Get Truck Information – Company name, DOT number, driver info
5. Collect Witness Information – Names and contact info
6. Do NOT Give Statements – To any insurance company
7. Call Attorney911 – We’ll send a preservation letter immediately

Critical First 48 Hours

Within 48 hours, we:

• Send spoliation letters to preserve all evidence
• Demand black box and ELD data downloads
• Subpoena cell phone records
• Obtain police crash reports
• Photograph all vehicles before they’re repaired
• Interview witnesses before memories fade

First Week

In the first week, we:

• Obtain the complete Driver Qualification File
• Request all maintenance records
• Analyze ECM and ELD data
• Hire accident reconstruction experts
• Begin building your case for maximum recovery

Common Malakoff Trucking Accident Questions

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Malakoff or anywhere in Henderson County, take these steps immediately if you’re able:

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
• Document the scene with photos and video if possible
• Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
• Collect witness contact information
• Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
• Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately

Evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Trucking companies in Malakoff and nationwide hire rapid-response teams to protect their interests. You need an attorney who moves just as fast.

Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?

YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Malakoff-area hospitals and trauma centers can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

What information should I collect at the truck accident scene in Malakoff?

Document everything possible:

• Truck and trailer license plates
• DOT number (on truck door)
• Trucking company name and logo
• Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
• Photos of all vehicle damage
• Photos of the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks
• Photos of your injuries
• Witness names and phone numbers
• Responding officer’s name and badge number
• Weather and road conditions

Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

NO. Do not give any recorded statements. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests.

How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney in Malakoff?

IMMEDIATELY – within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence in trucking cases (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.

What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?

A spoliation letter is a legal notice demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. This includes ECM/black box data, ELD logs, maintenance records, driver files, and more. Sending this letter immediately puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Malakoff?

Multiple parties may be liable in trucking accidents:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company/motor carrier
• The cargo owner or shipper
• The company that loaded the cargo
• Truck or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers
• The truck owner (if different from carrier)
• Government entities (for road defects)

We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

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

Usually YES. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for:

• Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified drivers)
• Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
• Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
• Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)

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

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs – the data tells the true story.

What is an owner-operator and does that affect my case?

An owner-operator is a driver who owns their own truck and contracts with trucking companies. This can complicate liability, but both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.

What is a truck’s “black box” and how does it help my case?

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data – similar to an airplane’s black box. This data can show:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Engine RPM and throttle position
• Whether cruise control was engaged
• GPS location

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are federally mandated devices that record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued. Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents.

How long does the trucking company keep black box and ELD data?

ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention for ELD data. This is why we send spoliation letters immediately – once we notify them of litigation, they must preserve everything.

What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We pursue:

• ECM/Black box data
• ELD records
• Driver Qualification File
• Maintenance records
• Inspection reports
• Dispatch logs
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training records
• Cell phone records
• Insurance policies
• The physical truck and trailer

Can the trucking company destroy evidence?

Once they’re on notice of potential litigation, destroying evidence is spoliation – a serious legal violation. Courts can:

• Instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable
• Impose monetary sanctions
• Enter default judgment in extreme cases
• Award punitive damages

What are hours of service regulations and how do violations cause accidents?

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

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

Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. Drivers who violate these rules are too tired to react safely.

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find:

• Hours of service violations (driving too long)
• False log entries (lying about driving time)
• Brake system deficiencies
• Cargo securement failures
• Drug and alcohol violations
• Unqualified drivers (no valid CDL or medical certificate)
• Failure to inspect vehicles

What is a Driver Qualification File and why does it matter?

FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a file for every driver containing:

• Employment application
• Driving record check
• Previous employer verification
• Medical certification
• Drug test results
• Training documentation

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

How do pre-trip inspections relate to my accident case?

Drivers must inspect their trucks before every trip. If they failed to conduct inspections or ignored known defects (bad brakes, worn tires, lighting problems), both the driver and company may be liable for negligence.

What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in Malakoff?

Due to the massive size and weight disparity, trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Amputations
• Severe burns
• Internal organ damage
• Multiple fractures
• Wrongful death

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Malakoff?

Case values depend on many factors:

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

Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents. We’ve seen verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions.

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

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

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

Time limits apply – contact us immediately to protect your rights.

How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Malakoff?

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

• Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
• Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
• Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

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

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys. We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way if necessary.

Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?

NO. We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

How much insurance do trucking companies carry?

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:

• $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
• $1,000,000 for oil, large equipment
• $5,000,000 for hazardous materials

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.

What if multiple insurance policies apply to my accident?

Trucking cases often involve multiple policies:

• Motor carrier’s liability policy
• Trailer interchange coverage
• Cargo insurance
• Owner-operator’s policy
• Excess/umbrella coverage

We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.

Will the trucking company’s insurance try to settle quickly?

Often yes – and that’s a red flag. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

Malakoff Trucking Accident Resources

Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers

• East Texas Medical Center – Athens: 2000 S Palestine St, Athens, TX 75751 (20 miles from Malakoff)
• UT Health East Texas Tyler: 1000 S Beckham Ave, Tyler, TX 75701 (40 miles from Malakoff)
• Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Waxahachie: 2400 N I-35, Waxahachie, TX 75165 (60 miles from Malakoff)

Local Courts Handling Trucking Cases

• Henderson County District Court: 100 E Tyler St, Athens, TX 75751
• Henderson County Justice of the Peace Courts: Various locations throughout the county
• U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas: For federal trucking cases

Local Law Enforcement Agencies

• Malakoff Police Department: 14999 US-175, Malakoff, TX 75148
• Henderson County Sheriff’s Office: 200 E Main St, Athens, TX 75751
• Texas Department of Public Safety: For highway accidents on US-175 and FM routes

Local Trucking Safety Resources

• Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): For road condition reports and accident statistics
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): For trucking company safety records
• Henderson County Emergency Management: For severe weather and road condition alerts

Why Malakoff Families Trust Attorney911

We’re Local

We know Malakoff. We know Henderson County. We know the roads where these accidents happen, the courts where these cases are heard, and the medical providers treating these injuries. We’re not just Texas attorneys – we’re your Malakoff neighbors.

We’re Experienced

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience fighting trucking companies. We’ve handled cases against Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and other major carriers. We know how to win.

We’re Aggressive

Trucking companies have teams of lawyers. We have a team of fighters. We send spoliation letters immediately. We subpoena records aggressively. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. And we never back down from a fight.

We’re Compassionate

We understand what you’re going through. We’ve seen families devastated by these accidents. We treat every client like family because that’s what you become to us – part of the Attorney911 family.

We’re Available

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a schedule. That’s why we’re available 24/7 to answer your call. When you need us, we’re here.

Malakoff Trucking Accident Case Results

While every case is unique, our track record demonstrates what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

$5+ Million – Logging Brain Injury Settlement

A Malakoff-area worker was struck by a falling log at a logging company, resulting in traumatic brain injury and permanent vision loss. We secured a multi-million dollar settlement that provides for his lifelong care and lost earning capacity.

$3.8+ Million – Car Accident Amputation Settlement

A Malakoff resident was injured in a car accident, and during subsequent medical treatment, developed staph infections that led to a partial leg amputation. We successfully proved the full chain of causation and secured compensation for the catastrophic injury.

$2.5+ Million – Truck Crash Recovery

A Henderson County family was involved in a devastating truck crash on US-175. We held the trucking company accountable for the driver’s negligence and secured compensation for their injuries and losses.

Millions Recovered – Trucking-Related Wrongful Death Cases

We’ve recovered millions for Malakoff families who lost loved ones in trucking accidents. These cases involve complex liability issues and require aggressive representation to secure justice for the families.

$10M Lawsuit Filed – Hazing Litigation

While not a trucking case, this recent lawsuit demonstrates our ability to take on major institutions and secure significant recoveries. We’re currently litigating a $10 million hazing case against the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi fraternity.

The Attorney911 Difference

We Know the Malakoff Trucking Corridors

From US-175 to FM-316, we know the roads where these accidents happen. We know:

• The dangerous curves on FM-90
• The high-speed sections of US-175
• The intersections where wide turns cause accidents
• The rural routes where fatigue-related crashes occur
• The seasonal traffic patterns around Cedar Creek Lake

This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.

We Have Federal Court Experience

Our managing partner is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for interstate trucking cases, which often involve federal regulations and can be filed in federal court.

We Include a Former Insurance Defense Attorney

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows:

• How insurance companies evaluate claims
• How adjusters are trained to minimize payouts
• What makes them settle for maximum amounts
• How they deny legitimate claims
• The software they use to undervalue claims

This insider knowledge gives us an unfair advantage against the trucking companies and their insurers.

We Offer Spanish-Language Services

Hablamos Español. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. This is critical for serving Malakoff’s Hispanic community and the many Spanish-speaking truck drivers who work in our area.

We’ve Been Doing This for 25+ Years

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. In that time, we’ve:

• Recovered millions for trucking accident victims
• Taken on the largest trucking companies in America
• Secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements
• Built a reputation as the firm insurers fear

What Malakoff Clients Say About Us

“They treated me like FAMILY, not just another case number.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

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

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

“Ralph reached out personally to check on me.”
— Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client

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

“I got a very nice settlement after being hit by a commercial truck.”
— MONGO SLADE, Attorney911 Client

The Malakoff Trucking Accident Attorney You Need

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Malakoff, Texas, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a fighter. You need Attorney911.

We offer:

✅ Free Consultations – No cost, no obligation
✅ No Fee Unless We Win – You pay nothing upfront
✅ 24/7 Availability – We answer calls immediately
✅ Local Knowledge – We know Malakoff and Henderson County
✅ Federal Court Access – For complex interstate cases
✅ Spanish Services – Hablamos Español
✅ Insider Advantage – Former insurance defense attorney on staff
✅ Multi-Million Dollar Results – Proven track record

Don’t let the trucking company push you around. Don’t let them destroy the evidence that proves their negligence. Don’t let them lowball you with a quick settlement offer.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free consultation.

We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence. We’ll investigate thoroughly to uncover every liable party. And we’ll fight aggressively to get you the maximum compensation you deserve.

Remember: Evidence disappears fast. The trucking company is already working against you. Don’t wait – call now.

1-888-ATTY-911
ralph@atty911.com
https://attorney911.com

Attorney911 – Because trucking companies shouldn’t get away with it.