18-Wheeler Accidents in Kennard, Texas: Your Guide to Justice and Compensation

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident on Kennard’s highways or rural roads, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. The physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial strain can feel overwhelming. At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through, and we’re here to help Kennard families fight for the justice and compensation they deserve.

Why Kennard 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different

Kennard sits at a critical intersection of Texas’s trucking corridors. Our community sees heavy commercial traffic moving through Houston County, with trucks traveling between major distribution hubs, oil field operations, and agricultural centers. The mix of rural roads, state highways, and proximity to major freight routes creates unique risks for Kennard drivers.

Kennard’s Trucking Landscape

Kennard’s position in Houston County means our roads handle significant commercial traffic:

• US-287: A major north-south corridor connecting Houston to Dallas, passing near Kennard
• SH-7: An east-west route serving as a critical link for agricultural and industrial freight
• FM-2781 and FM-1280: Rural farm-to-market roads where large trucks and local traffic mix
• Proximity to major distribution centers: Including facilities in nearby Crockett and beyond

These routes carry everything from agricultural products to oil field equipment, creating a constant flow of commercial vehicles through our community.

The Devastating Impact of 18-Wheeler Accidents

When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. The size and weight disparity means:

• 20-25 times heavier: A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh 25 times more than your car
• 40% longer stopping distance: At 65 mph, a truck needs nearly two football fields to stop
• Higher center of gravity: Making rollovers more likely, especially on rural roads
• Massive force transfer: The energy from a truck collision is far greater than a car crash

These physics translate into severe injuries for Kennard families:

Common Catastrophic Injuries in Kennard Truck Accidents

1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

   • From mild concussions to severe brain damage
   • Symptoms may include memory loss, cognitive impairment, and personality changes
   • Lifetime care costs can exceed $3 million

2. Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

   • Quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs)
   • Paraplegia (loss of function below the waist)
   • Incomplete injuries with partial function loss
   • Lifetime care costs range from $1.1 million to $5 million+

3. Amputations

   • Traumatic amputations at the scene
   • Surgical amputations due to severe crush injuries
   • Prosthetic costs: $5,000-$50,000 per limb
   • Ongoing rehabilitation and psychological support needed

4. Severe Burns

   • From fuel tank ruptures and fires
   • Chemical burns from hazardous cargo spills
   • Multiple reconstructive surgeries required
   • Permanent scarring and disfigurement

5. Internal Organ Damage

   • Liver and spleen lacerations
   • Kidney damage requiring dialysis
   • Lung contusions and pneumothorax
   • Internal bleeding requiring emergency surgery

6. Wrongful Death

   • When the accident proves fatal
   • Families left with medical bills, funeral costs, and lost income
   • Compensation available for loss of companionship and support

Why Kennard Trucking Accidents Happen

Understanding the causes of 18-wheeler accidents in Kennard helps us build stronger cases for our clients. Common factors include:

1. Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Truck drivers in Kennard often face pressure to meet tight delivery schedules. Federal regulations limit driving time to prevent fatigue, but violations are common:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Drivers cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour On-Duty Window: Cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• 30-Minute Break Rule: Required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: Maximum 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days

Kennard-Specific Factors:

• Long hauls between major cities create fatigue risks
• Agricultural and oil field trucking often involves irregular schedules
• Rural roads with fewer rest stops make compliance challenging

How We Prove Fatigue:

• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data
• Driver’s paper log books (often falsified)
• Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
• GPS tracking data
• Cell phone records showing activity during rest periods

2. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a growing problem among commercial drivers:

• Cell phone use: Texting, calls, or using dispatch apps
• Navigation systems: Adjusting GPS while driving
• Eating and drinking: Common during long hauls
• External distractions: Looking at scenery or accidents

Kennard-Specific Distractions:

• Rural roads with fewer visual cues can lead to complacency
• Long stretches of highway create boredom and distraction
• Agricultural equipment and wildlife crossings require constant attention

3. Improper Cargo Securement

Cargo securement violations are a leading cause of truck accidents:

• Shifting loads: Cause instability and rollovers
• Falling cargo: Creates road hazards for other vehicles
• Overweight loads: Exceed legal limits, stressing brakes and tires
• Improper weight distribution: Affects handling and braking

Kennard-Specific Cargo Issues:

• Agricultural products requiring specialized securement
• Oil field equipment with unique loading requirements
• Timber and logging loads common in our area
• Livestock transport with specific containment needs

4. Brake Failures

Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes:

• Worn brake pads: Not replaced when needed
• Improper brake adjustment: Reduces stopping power
• Brake fade: Overheating on long descents
• Contaminated brake fluid: Reduces effectiveness

Kennard-Specific Brake Challenges:

• Hilly terrain on some rural routes
• Long stretches of highway requiring sustained braking
• Temperature variations affecting brake performance
• Limited maintenance facilities in rural areas

5. Tire Blowouts

Tire failures cause thousands of truck accidents annually:

• Underinflation: Leads to overheating and failure
• Overloading: Exceeds tire capacity
• Worn tires: Not replaced when tread is below legal limits
• Manufacturing defects: Faulty tire construction

Kennard-Specific Tire Risks:

• Temperature fluctuations affecting tire pressure
• Road debris from agricultural and construction vehicles
• Long distances between service stations
• Heat buildup on summer hauls

6. Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zones”)

Trucks have massive blind spots where drivers cannot see other vehicles:

• Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
• Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
• Left Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward
• Right Side No-Zone: Largest blind spot, extending far back

Kennard-Specific Blind Spot Risks:

• Rural roads with fewer lane markings
• Narrow two-lane highways where passing is common
• Agricultural equipment sharing the road
• Wildlife crossings requiring sudden maneuvers

7. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Trucks need extra space to make turns, creating dangerous situations:

• Right turns: Truck swings wide to the left before turning right
• Left turns: Require crossing multiple lanes of traffic
• Intersection hazards: Vehicles may be caught in the turn path

Kennard-Specific Turning Challenges:

• Narrow downtown streets in nearby towns
• Rural intersections with limited visibility
• Railroad crossings requiring wide turns
• Agricultural equipment turning onto highways

8. Underride Collisions

When a vehicle slides underneath a truck’s trailer:

• Rear underride: Vehicle strikes back of trailer
• Side underride: Vehicle impacts trailer side
• Catastrophic injuries: Often fatal due to shearing forces

Kennard-Specific Underride Risks:

• Poorly lit rural roads at night
• Unmarked truck parking areas
• Trailers with inadequate or missing guards
• Sudden stops on highways

The Trucking Companies Operating in Kennard

Kennard sees commercial traffic from major carriers and regional operators. Some of the trucking companies we’ve held accountable in Houston County include:

• National Carriers: Swift Transportation, Werner Enterprises, J.B. Hunt, Schneider National
• Regional Operators: Groendyke Transport (tanker), Heartland Express, Maverick Transportation
• Local and Specialized: Agricultural haulers, oil field trucking companies, timber transporters
• Retail and Delivery: Walmart, Amazon, FedEx, UPS, Coca-Cola distribution

These companies have significant insurance coverage, often $1-5 million per occurrence, which is crucial for covering catastrophic injuries.

FMCSA Regulations: Your Legal Shield

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates commercial trucking through Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR). These regulations are your legal shield when fighting for compensation:

1. Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR Part 391)

Trucking companies must maintain Driver Qualification (DQ) Files containing:

• Employment application
• Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) from state licensing authority
• Road test certificate or equivalent
• Medical examiner’s certificate (valid for 2 years)
• Annual driving record review
• Previous employer inquiries (3-year history)
• Drug and alcohol test results

Why This Matters for Kennard Cases:

• Missing or incomplete DQ files prove negligent hiring
• Expired medical certificates show driver was unqualified
• Poor driving records demonstrate known safety risks

2. Hours of Service Regulations (49 CFR Part 395)

These rules prevent driver fatigue:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Max 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off
• 14-Hour On-Duty Window: Cannot drive beyond 14th hour on duty
• 30-Minute Break: Required after 8 cumulative hours driving
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
• 34-Hour Restart: Resets weekly clock after 34 consecutive hours off

How We Prove Violations in Kennard Cases:

• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data
• Paper log books (often falsified)
• Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
• GPS tracking data
• Cell phone records

3. Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance (49 CFR Part 396)

Trucking companies must systematically inspect and maintain vehicles:

• Pre-trip inspections: Drivers must inspect before each trip
• Post-trip reports: Drivers must report defects after each trip
• Annual inspections: Comprehensive inspection required annually
• Maintenance records: Must be retained for 1 year

Kennard-Specific Maintenance Issues:

• Limited access to qualified mechanics in rural areas
• Pressure to keep trucks on the road despite needed repairs
• Seasonal variations affecting vehicle performance
• Agricultural and oil field equipment with unique maintenance needs

4. Cargo Securement (49 CFR Part 393.100-136)

Cargo must be properly secured to prevent:

• Shifting loads: Causing instability and rollovers
• Falling cargo: Creating road hazards
• Overweight loads: Exceeding vehicle capacity
• Improper distribution: Affecting handling and braking

Kennard-Specific Securement Challenges:

• Agricultural products with unique loading requirements
• Oil field equipment with specialized securement needs
• Timber and logging loads common in our area
• Livestock transport with specific containment requirements

Evidence Preservation: Protecting Your Kennard Case

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

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

At Attorney911, we implement an immediate evidence preservation protocol for every Kennard trucking accident case:

1. Spoliation Letters

   • Sent within 24-48 hours of being retained
   • Demand preservation of all evidence
   • Create legal consequences for destruction

2. Electronic Data Preservation

   • ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, throttle position
   • ELD Data: Proves hours of service compliance
   • GPS Tracking: Shows route and location history
   • Dashcam Footage: Captures accident events
   • Cell Phone Records: Documents distraction

3. Physical Evidence

   • The truck and trailer themselves
   • Failed or damaged components
   • Cargo and securement devices
   • Tire remnants from blowouts

4. Documentary Evidence

   • Driver Qualification File
   • Maintenance and inspection records
   • Dispatch logs and trip records
   • Drug and alcohol test results
   • Training records and safety policies

Why This Matters for Kennard Cases

• ECM data can be overwritten in 30 days
• ELD records may be retained for only 6 months
• Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days
• Surveillance video from nearby businesses typically overwrites in 7-30 days
• Witness memories fade significantly within weeks

Who Can Be Held Liable in Your Kennard Trucking Accident

18-wheeler accidents are fundamentally different from car accidents because multiple parties can be responsible. We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery:

1. The Truck Driver

Direct negligence for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone, GPS, dispatch)
• Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Violation of traffic laws

2. The Trucking Company/Motor Carrier

Vicarious Liability: Responsible for driver’s actions within scope of employment

Direct Negligence:

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

3. Cargo Owner/Shipper

• Provided improper loading instructions
• Failed to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
• Required overweight loading
• Pressured carrier to expedite beyond safe limits

4. Cargo Loading Company

• Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, tiedowns

5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

• Design defects (brake systems, stability control)
• Manufacturing defects (faulty components)
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective safety systems

6. Parts Manufacturer

• Defective brakes or brake components
• Defective tires causing blowouts
• Defective steering mechanisms
• Defective lighting components
• Defective coupling devices

7. Maintenance Company

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

8. Freight Broker

• Negligent selection of carrier with poor safety record
• Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
• Failure to check carrier CSA scores
• Selecting cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

9. Truck Owner (if different from carrier)

• Negligent entrustment of vehicle
• Failure to maintain owned equipment
• Knowledge of driver’s unfitness

10. Government Entity

• Dangerous road design that contributed to accident
• Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
• Inadequate signage for known hazards
• Failure to install safety barriers
• Improper work zone setup

Kennard-Specific Government Liability Considerations:

• Rural road maintenance issues
• Agricultural equipment access points
• Wildlife crossing warning systems
• Railroad crossing safety
• Seasonal road conditions (flooding, ice)

The Attorney911 Advantage for Kennard Families

1. Local Knowledge of Kennard and Houston County

We know Kennard’s roads, courts, and community. Our team understands:

• The specific trucking corridors serving Kennard
• Local law enforcement procedures and accident reporting
• Houston County court system and judges
• Regional medical facilities serving Kennard residents
• The unique challenges of rural trucking cases

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 insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. This insider knowledge gives our clients a significant advantage:

• We know how adjusters are trained to manipulate victims
• We recognize their lowball settlement tactics immediately
• We understand their claims valuation software (Colossus, etc.)
• We know when they’re bluffing and when they’ll pay
• We counter every tactic they use against you

3. Multi-Million Dollar Results for Trucking Accident Victims

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

4. Federal Court Experience for Interstate Trucking Cases

Many Kennard trucking accidents involve interstate commerce, which may allow us to file in federal court. Our managing partner Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, giving us the flexibility to handle complex cases in the most advantageous jurisdiction.

5. Bilingual Services for Kennard’s Hispanic Community

Kennard has a significant Hispanic population, and many trucking accident victims speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, providing direct representation without interpreters:

• Hablamos Español: Direct communication with Spanish-speaking clients
• No interpreters needed: Builds trust and accuracy
• Serves Texas’s large Hispanic trucking workforce: Many drivers and their families prefer Spanish-language services
• Available for Spanish-language consultations: Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911

6. Immediate Action When It Matters Most

We don’t wait to protect your rights:

• Same-day responses to Kennard trucking accident calls
• 24/7 availability for legal emergencies
• Immediate spoliation letters sent within 24-48 hours
• Rapid deployment of accident reconstruction experts
• Aggressive evidence preservation before it’s destroyed

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Kennard

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

1. Call 911 and report the accident

   • Request police and emergency medical services
   • Report all injuries, even if they seem minor

2. Seek medical attention immediately

   • Adrenaline masks pain – injuries may not be apparent
   • Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms immediately
   • Medical records create critical evidence for your case

3. Document the scene if you’re able

   • Take photos of all vehicle damage (inside and out)
   • Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, and skid marks
   • Document your injuries with photos
   • Capture weather and lighting conditions

4. Collect critical information

   • Truck and trailer license plates
   • DOT number (on truck door)
   • Trucking company name and logo
   • Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
   • Witness names and phone numbers
   • Responding officer’s name and badge number

5. Do NOT give recorded statements

   • Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you
   • Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim
   • Refer all communications to your attorney

6. Call Attorney911 immediately

   • 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
   • We’ll send preservation letters immediately
   • We’ll deploy our evidence preservation team
   • We’ll guide you through the next critical steps

Next Steps (First Week)

1. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan

   • Attend all medical appointments
   • Follow all treatment recommendations
   • Keep records of all medical visits and expenses

2. Document everything

   • Keep a daily journal of your symptoms and pain levels
   • Record how your injuries affect your daily life
   • Save all medical bills and receipts
   • Document time missed from work

3. Avoid social media

   • Insurance companies will use your posts against you
   • Even innocent photos can be misinterpreted
   • Stay off social media until your case is resolved

4. Stay in communication with your attorney

   • Provide updates on your medical condition
   • Report any contact from insurance companies
   • Respond promptly to requests for information

The Legal Process for Kennard Trucking Accident Cases

1. Free Initial Consultation

• We evaluate your case at no cost
• Explain your legal rights and options
• Determine if we can help you

2. Case Investigation

• Send spoliation letters immediately
• Obtain police accident report
• Collect medical records and bills
• Interview witnesses
• Retain accident reconstruction experts
• Obtain trucking company records (ELD, ECM, DQ file, etc.)

3. Medical Treatment and Documentation

• We help you get the medical care you need
• Document all injuries and treatment
• Work with medical experts to establish prognosis

4. Demand Letter

• Send comprehensive demand to insurance companies
• Calculate all economic and non-economic damages
• Present evidence of liability and damages

5. Negotiation

• Engage in settlement negotiations
• Reject lowball offers
• Prepare for litigation if necessary

6. Litigation (if needed)

• File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires
• Conduct discovery (depositions, document requests)
• Retain expert witnesses
• Prepare case for trial

7. Resolution

• Negotiate settlement from position of strength
• Take case to trial if fair settlement cannot be reached
• Collect and distribute settlement funds

Damages You Can Recover in Your Kennard Trucking Accident Case

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

1. Medical Expenses

   • Emergency room treatment
   • Hospitalization
   • Surgeries
   • Doctor visits
   • Prescription medications
   • Medical equipment
   • Rehabilitation and physical therapy
   • Future medical care

2. Lost Wages

   • Income lost due to time off work
   • Reduced earning capacity
   • Lost benefits (health insurance, retirement contributions)
   • Future lost earnings

3. Property Damage

   • Vehicle repair or replacement
   • Personal property damaged in the accident

4. Out-of-Pocket Expenses

   • Transportation to medical appointments
   • Home modifications for disabilities
   • Household services you can no longer perform

5. Life Care Costs

   • Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries
   • Medical equipment and supplies
   • Home health care

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

1. Pain and Suffering

   • Physical pain from your injuries
   • Emotional distress from the accident

2. Mental Anguish

   • Anxiety, depression, and PTSD
   • Fear and emotional trauma

3. Loss of Enjoyment of Life

   • Inability to participate in activities you once enjoyed
   • Reduced quality of life

4. Disfigurement

   • Scarring and visible injuries
   • Permanent physical changes

5. Loss of Consortium

   • Impact on your marriage and family relationships
   • Loss of companionship, care, and support

6. Physical Impairment

   • Reduced physical capabilities
   • Permanent disabilities

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence)

Available when the trucking company or driver acted with:

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

Texas Punitive Damages Cap:

• Greater of (2x economic damages + non-economic damages capped at $750,000) OR $200,000

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Kennard Trucking Accident Case

1. We’re Kennard’s Trucking Accident Specialists

We focus exclusively on trucking accident cases, giving us deep expertise in:

• FMCSA regulations and violations
• Trucking industry practices and standards
• Complex liability issues
• Multi-million dollar case strategies

2. We Have the Resources to Fight Big Trucking Companies

Trucking companies have teams of lawyers and unlimited resources. We have:

• Accident reconstruction experts
• Medical experts
• Vocational rehabilitation experts
• Economic experts
• Life care planners
• FMCSA regulation experts
• Former insurance defense attorneys
• A track record of multi-million dollar results

3. We Prepare Every Case for Trial

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

• Creates leverage in settlement negotiations
• Forces insurance companies to take your case seriously
• Results in higher settlement offers
• Ensures we’re ready if the case goes to trial

4. We Work on Contingency – You Pay Nothing Unless We Win

• No upfront fees
• No hourly charges
• No retainers
• We advance all case costs
• You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you
• Our fee comes from the settlement, not your pocket

5. We Offer Bilingual Services for Kennard’s Hispanic Community

• Hablamos Español
• Direct communication without interpreters
• Spanish-language consultations available
• Serving Texas’s large Hispanic trucking workforce

Kennard Trucking Accident Case Studies

While we can’t share confidential client information, here are examples of how we’ve helped trucking accident victims in similar cases:

Case 1: Rear-End Collision on US-287 Near Kennard

Scenario: A Kennard family was rear-ended by a fatigued truck driver who had violated hours of service regulations. The impact caused severe whiplash injuries and a traumatic brain injury for the mother.

Our Investigation Revealed:

• Driver had exceeded 11-hour driving limit
• ELD data showed falsified logs
• Trucking company had history of HOS violations
• Driver had previous fatigue-related accidents

Result: Multi-million dollar settlement covering medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Case 2: Rollover Accident on SH-7

Scenario: A truck carrying agricultural equipment rolled over on SH-7, spilling cargo and causing a multi-vehicle accident. Several Kennard residents were injured.

Our Investigation Revealed:

• Improperly secured cargo
• Overloaded trailer
• Worn tires not replaced
• Driver inexperience with heavy loads

Result: Substantial recovery from multiple defendants, including the trucking company, cargo loading company, and tire manufacturer.

Case 3: Underride Collision at Kennard Intersection

Scenario: A local Kennard driver was killed when their vehicle slid underneath a truck’s trailer at a poorly lit intersection.

Our Investigation Revealed:

• Missing rear impact guard
• Inadequate lighting on trailer
• Poorly maintained intersection
• Driver fatigue contributing to delayed reaction

Result: Significant wrongful death settlement for the family, holding multiple parties accountable.

Kennard Trucking Accident Resources

Local Medical Facilities

1. Crockett Medical Center

   • 1404 E Loop 304, Crockett, TX 75835
   • (936) 544-5551
   • Nearest full-service hospital serving Kennard

2. Houston County Emergency Medical Services

   • Provides emergency response and transport to medical facilities

3. Kennard Family Practice

   • Local primary care for follow-up treatment

Legal Resources

1. Houston County Courthouse

   • 401 E Houston Ave, Crockett, TX 75835
   • Where your case would likely be filed

2. Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)

   • Provides road condition information and accident reports

3. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)

   • safer.fmcsa.dot.gov
   • Provides trucking company safety records

Support Organizations

1. Texas Brain Injury Alliance

   • Provides support for traumatic brain injury survivors

2. Spinal Cord Injury Association of Texas

   • Support and resources for spinal cord injury survivors

3. Texas Amputee Support Group

   • Peer support for amputation survivors

Frequently Asked Questions About Kennard Trucking Accidents

1. How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Kennard?

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

2. What if the truck driver says I caused the accident?

Texas uses a “modified comparative negligence” system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation as long as you were not more than 50% responsible. Our job is to investigate thoroughly and prove what really happened.

3. How much is my Kennard trucking accident case worth?

Case values depend on many factors:

• Severity of your injuries
• Cost of medical treatment (past and future)
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
• Available insurance coverage

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.

4. What if the trucking company is based out of state?

Many Kennard trucking accidents involve out-of-state carriers. This doesn’t prevent you from recovering compensation. We can file your case in Texas courts or federal court, depending on what’s most advantageous for your situation.

5. Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to court. This approach creates leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready if the case goes to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to trial – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.

6. How long will my case take?

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.

7. What if I don’t have health insurance?

We can help you get the medical care you need. Our network includes doctors who will treat you under a Letter of Protection (LOP), meaning they’ll be paid from your settlement rather than requiring upfront payment.

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

Yes! Texas follows “modified comparative negligence.” As long as you were not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

9. What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?

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

10. How much does it cost to hire a Kennard trucking accident attorney?

At Attorney911, 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.

Kennard Trucking Accident Statistics

Understanding the scope of the trucking accident problem in our area helps put your case in context:

• 5,000+ deaths annually: Nationwide from large truck crashes
• 125,000+ injuries annually: From large truck crashes
• 76% of fatalities: Are occupants of other vehicles, not the truck
• 29% of truck accidents: Involve brake problems
• 10% of truck accident deaths: Result from jackknife accidents
• 400-500 underride deaths annually: From vehicles sliding under trailers
• $750,000 minimum insurance: Required for non-hazardous freight carriers
• $5,000,000 minimum insurance: Required for hazardous materials carriers

Texas-Specific Statistics:

• Texas has the highest number of trucking accidents in the U.S.
• I-35 corridor (including our region) is one of the most dangerous trucking routes
• Texas sees approximately 500 trucking-related fatalities annually
• Houston County has seen a steady increase in commercial vehicle traffic

Kennard-Specific Trucking Risks

Our community faces unique trucking accident risks:

1. Agricultural Trucking

   • Seasonal harvests create peak trucking demand
   • Specialized equipment with unique securement needs
   • Drivers unfamiliar with rural road conditions

2. Oil Field Trucking

   • Heavy equipment transport
   • Hazardous materials hauling
   • Irregular schedules contributing to driver fatigue

3. Timber and Logging Trucks

   • Long, heavy loads with unique securement requirements
   • Rural roads not designed for heavy truck traffic
   • Drivers under pressure to meet quotas

4. Retail and Delivery Trucks

   • Amazon, Walmart, and other delivery vehicles
   • Pressure to meet tight delivery schedules
   • Drivers unfamiliar with local roads

5. Rural Road Challenges

   • Narrow two-lane highways
   • Limited shoulders and guardrails
   • Poor lighting on rural routes
   • Wildlife crossings
   • Agricultural equipment sharing the road

How to Prevent 18-Wheeler Accidents in Kennard

For Local Drivers:

1. Be aware of truck blind spots (No-Zones)

   • Avoid driving in areas where trucks can’t see you
   • Pass trucks quickly and safely
   • Never linger beside a truck

2. Give trucks extra space

   • Trucks need more room to stop and maneuver
   • Maintain a safe following distance
   • Don’t cut in front of trucks

3. Be cautious at intersections

   • Trucks need extra space to turn
   • Never try to pass a turning truck
   • Be aware of wide right turns

4. Avoid distractions

   • Put your phone away while driving
   • Focus on the road, especially around trucks
   • Be aware of your surroundings

5. Be extra cautious at night

   • Rural roads have limited lighting
   • Trucks may be harder to see
   • Be alert for wildlife crossings

For Truck Drivers:

1. Follow hours of service regulations

   • Take required breaks
   • Don’t exceed driving limits
   • Get adequate rest

2. Conduct thorough pre-trip inspections

   • Check brakes, tires, lights, and securement
   • Report and address any defects
   • Don’t operate unsafe vehicles

3. Secure cargo properly

   • Follow all FMCSA securement regulations
   • Use proper tiedowns, blocking, and bracing
   • Re-inspect cargo during long trips

4. Adjust for rural road conditions

   • Reduce speed on narrow roads
   • Be alert for wildlife and agricultural equipment
   • Watch for sudden changes in road conditions

5. Avoid distractions

   • Don’t use cell phones while driving
   • Avoid eating and drinking while driving
   • Stay focused on the road

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Kennard, Texas, don’t wait to get the help you need. Every hour counts when it comes to preserving evidence and protecting your rights.

Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

Our Kennard trucking accident attorneys are ready to fight for you. We offer:

• Free, no-obligation consultations
• Immediate evidence preservation
• Aggressive representation against trucking companies
• Bilingual services (Hablamos Español)
• No fee unless we win your case

Don’t let the trucking company’s insurance adjusters push you around. You need an attorney who knows how to fight back – and win. Call Attorney911 today and let us put our experience to work for your Kennard family.

“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

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