18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Mertens, Texas – Attorney911
Every year, thousands of families in Hill County face life-altering consequences from 18-wheeler accidents on our local highways. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in Mertens, Texas, you need experienced legal representation that understands both federal trucking regulations and the unique challenges of our rural Texas roads.
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, brings federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by catastrophic 18-wheeler crashes right here in Hill County.
Why Mertens Trucking Accidents Are Different
Mertens sits at the crossroads of several critical trucking routes that serve North Texas. The rural nature of our roads combined with heavy commercial traffic creates unique dangers:
- FM 308 and FM 67: These farm-to-market roads connect Mertens to major highways but lack the safety features of interstate roads
- I-35 corridor: Just east of Mertens, this major north-south route carries heavy truck traffic between Dallas and San Antonio
- US 77: The primary route through Hill County sees significant commercial traffic
- Local distribution centers: Trucks serving regional distribution hubs often travel through Mertens on secondary roads
The rural character of our roads means:
- Limited emergency response times when accidents occur
- Fewer traffic enforcement resources to monitor truck safety
- More agricultural and livestock transport mixing with commercial traffic
- Roads designed for local traffic but used by heavy commercial vehicles
The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents
When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. We’ve seen firsthand how these accidents change lives in an instant:
- Traumatic brain injuries that require lifelong care
- Spinal cord damage leading to paralysis
- Amputations from crushing injuries
- Severe burns from fuel fires
- Wrongful death of parents, children, and breadwinners
The medical bills alone can reach millions of dollars, and many victims never fully recover their ability to work or enjoy life as they once did.
How We Hold Trucking Companies Accountable
Trucking companies and their insurers have teams of lawyers working to protect their interests from the moment an accident occurs. At Attorney911, we level the playing field with our deep understanding of trucking regulations and our aggressive approach to evidence preservation.
The Critical First 48 Hours
Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. That’s why we:
- Send spoliation letters immediately – We demand preservation of all evidence within 24-48 hours of being retained
- Secure electronic data – ECM/black box, ELD records, GPS data, cell phone records
- Preserve physical evidence – The truck, trailer, cargo, and failed components
- Document the scene – Before vehicles are moved or repaired
Our team knows exactly what evidence to preserve and how to obtain it before the trucking company can destroy it.
Proving Trucking Company Negligence
We build strong cases by proving violations of federal safety regulations. Common violations we uncover include:
Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395):
- Drivers exceeding the 11-hour driving limit
- Violating the 14-hour on-duty window
- Failing to take required 30-minute breaks
- Falsifying log books (paper or electronic)
Vehicle Maintenance Failures (49 CFR Part 396):
- Brake system deficiencies (29% of truck crashes involve brake problems)
- Worn or improperly inflated tires
- Broken or missing lights and reflectors
- Faulty coupling devices
- Inadequate cargo securement
Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391):
- Hiring drivers with poor safety records
- Failing to conduct proper background checks
- Employing drivers without valid CDLs
- Allowing drivers with medical conditions that impair their ability to drive
Cargo Securement Failures (49 CFR Part 393):
- Inadequate tiedowns causing cargo shifts
- Overloaded trailers exceeding weight limits
- Improper load distribution creating instability
The Attorney911 Advantage
What sets our firm apart from other personal injury lawyers in Hill County?
1. Federal Court Experience
Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for interstate trucking cases that often involve federal jurisdiction.
2. Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff
Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how trucking insurers evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for accident victims.
3. Multi-Million Dollar Results
We’ve recovered millions for Texas families in trucking accident cases, including:
- $3.8+ million for a car accident amputation case
- $2.5+ million for truck crash recoveries
- Millions for families in wrongful death cases
4. Local Knowledge
We understand the unique challenges of trucking cases in rural Texas. Our knowledge of:
- Local court procedures in Hill County
- Common trucking routes through Mertens
- Local emergency response capabilities
- Rural road conditions and hazards
5. Spanish Language Services
Hablamos Español. Many truck drivers and accident victims in our community speak Spanish as their primary language. Our bilingual staff ensures clear communication and proper representation.
6. Contingency Fee Representation
You pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. When we recover compensation for you, our fee comes from the settlement, not your pocket.
Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Mertens
The rural roads around Mertens see several types of trucking accidents that are particularly dangerous:
Jackknife Accidents
When a truck’s trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, it can block multiple lanes of traffic. These often occur on:
- Wet or icy roads during winter months
- Curves on FM 308 and FM 67
- Sudden stops near intersections
Rollover Accidents
The high center of gravity of loaded trucks makes them prone to rollovers, especially:
- On sharp curves
- When taking exit ramps too fast
- When cargo shifts during transport
- On uneven rural road shoulders
Underride Collisions
When a passenger vehicle slides underneath a trailer, the results are often fatal. These occur:
- When trucks stop suddenly on rural roads
- At intersections where visibility is limited
- When trailers lack proper underride guards
Rear-End Collisions
The long stopping distance of 18-wheelers makes rear-end collisions common:
- On US 77 where traffic speeds vary
- Near distribution centers where trucks enter/exit
- In foggy conditions common in rural areas
Cargo Spills
Improperly secured cargo creates hazards on our roads:
- Agricultural products spilling onto roadways
- Construction materials falling from flatbeds
- Hazardous materials creating environmental dangers
Wide Turn Accidents
Trucks making wide turns often collide with vehicles in their blind spots:
- At rural intersections
- Near local businesses with tight parking
- On narrow farm-to-market roads
What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Mertens
If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Mertens or anywhere in Hill County:
- Call 911 immediately – Report the accident and request medical assistance
- Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries aren’t immediately apparent
- Document the scene – Take photos of all vehicles, road conditions, and your injuries
- Get the truck’s information – Company name, DOT number, driver’s name and license
- Collect witness information – Names and contact information for anyone who saw the accident
- Do NOT give statements – To insurance adjusters or the trucking company without legal representation
- Call Attorney911 immediately – 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation
The Legal Process for Mertens Trucking Accident Cases
1. Investigation Phase
- Immediate evidence preservation
- Accident reconstruction
- Driver background investigation
- Trucking company safety record review
2. Medical Treatment Phase
- Connecting you with local medical providers
- Documenting your injuries and treatment
- Projecting future medical needs
3. Demand Phase
- Calculating all damages (medical, lost wages, pain and suffering)
- Preparing a comprehensive demand package
- Negotiating with insurance companies
4. Litigation Phase (if necessary)
- Filing a lawsuit in Hill County or federal court
- Conducting depositions of drivers, safety managers, and company officials
- Presenting your case to a jury if a fair settlement can’t be reached
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Mertens Trucking Accident Case
When you choose Attorney911, you’re choosing a firm that:
✅ Has over 25 years of experience handling trucking accident cases
✅ Includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows their tactics
✅ Has federal court experience for interstate trucking cases
✅ Offers Spanish language services for our community
✅ Works on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win
✅ Provides personal attention – you’re not just a case number
✅ Has recovered millions for trucking accident victims
✅ Understands the unique challenges of rural Texas trucking cases
Our Promise to Mertens Families
We understand that after a trucking accident, you’re facing:
- Mounting medical bills
- Lost income from missed work
- Physical pain and emotional trauma
- Uncertainty about your future
We promise to:
- Fight aggressively for the maximum compensation you deserve
- Handle all communications with insurance companies
- Keep you informed every step of the way
- Never settle for less than your case is worth
- Treat you with compassion and respect
Frequently Asked Questions About Mertens Trucking Accidents
Q: How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Mertens?
A: In Texas, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, you should contact an attorney immediately – critical evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases.
Q: Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
A: Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can recover damages as long as you were not more than 50% at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Q: How much is my trucking accident case worth?
A: Every case is unique. Factors include:
- Severity of your injuries
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
- Available insurance coverage
Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical auto policies, often $1 million or more.
Q: What if the trucking company claims their driver wasn’t at fault?
A: We investigate thoroughly to determine what really happened. Electronic data from the truck’s black box and ELD often tells a different story than the driver’s account.
Q: Will my case go to trial?
A: Most cases settle before trial. However, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready if the case does go to court.
Q: How long will my case take to resolve?
A: Simple cases may resolve in 6-12 months. Complex cases with severe injuries can take 1-3 years. We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while ensuring you receive full compensation.
Q: What if the trucking company is based out of state?
A: Interstate trucking cases often fall under federal jurisdiction. Our federal court experience allows us to handle cases against out-of-state trucking companies.
Q: Can I afford an attorney after a trucking accident?
A: Yes. We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We also advance all costs of litigation, so you don’t have to worry about upfront expenses.
Local Resources for Trucking Accident Victims
If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident in Mertens, these local resources may be helpful:
Medical Facilities:
- Hill Regional Hospital (Hillsboro) – 20 miles from Mertens
- Baylor Scott & White Medical Center (Waxahachie) – 30 miles
- Medical City Dallas – For specialized trauma care
Law Enforcement:
- Hill County Sheriff’s Office
- Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)
Support Services:
- Hill County Victim Assistance Program
- Local physical therapy clinics
- Mental health counseling services
Contact Attorney911 Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Mertens, Texas, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every day. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect their interests – you need someone fighting for you.
Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll evaluate your case, explain your rights, and outline your legal options. There’s no obligation, and we only get paid if we win your case.
Hablamos Español. Our bilingual staff is ready to assist you in Spanish or English.
Remember: The trucking company is hoping you don’t know your rights. We do. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve.
