18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Howard County, Texas
If you’ve been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident in Howard County, Texas, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a legal emergency response team that understands the unique dangers of West Texas trucking corridors. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we know exactly how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable when they put profits over people on our highways.
Why Howard County Trucking Accidents Are Different
Howard County sits at the crossroads of some of Texas’s most dangerous trucking routes. The convergence of I-20, US-87, and State Highway 350 creates a perfect storm for commercial vehicle accidents. These highways carry:
- Oil field equipment from the Permian Basin
- Agricultural products from West Texas farms
- Consumer goods bound for distribution centers
- Hazardous materials from chemical plants
The extreme West Texas heat, sudden dust storms, and long stretches of monotonous highway create conditions where driver fatigue and equipment failures become deadly. When an 80,000-pound truck loses control on these roads, the results are often catastrophic.
The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Howard County
The physics of trucking accidents make them particularly deadly:
- A fully loaded 18-wheeler is 20-25 times heavier than your passenger vehicle
- At 65 mph, a truck needs nearly two football fields to stop
- The average car weighs just 4,000 pounds—no match for an 80,000-pound truck
In Howard County, we see these common accident types:
Jackknife Accidents on I-20: When sudden braking or wet roads cause trailers to swing out of control, often blocking multiple lanes and causing multi-vehicle pileups.
Underride Collisions on US-87: When passenger vehicles slide under trailers, often resulting in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries.
Rollover Accidents on State Highway 350: When top-heavy loads or sharp turns cause trucks to tip over, spilling cargo and crushing nearby vehicles.
Fatigue-Related Crashes on Rural Routes: When drivers push beyond federal hours-of-service limits, falling asleep at the wheel on long, straight stretches of highway.
Brake Failure Accidents: When poorly maintained trucks lose braking ability on the steep grades near Big Spring.
How We Fight for Howard County Trucking Accident Victims
Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has spent over 25 years holding trucking companies accountable. Unlike other firms, we have a former insurance defense attorney on our team—Lupe Peña, who knows exactly how trucking companies try to minimize claims. This insider knowledge gives us an unfair advantage in your case.
Here’s what we do for Howard County clients:
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Immediate Evidence Preservation: We send spoliation letters within 24 hours to preserve black box data, ELD records, and maintenance logs before they’re destroyed.
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Comprehensive Investigation: We gather all available evidence including:
- ECM/black box data showing speed, braking, and hours of service
- ELD records proving fatigue violations
- Driver qualification files exposing negligent hiring
- Maintenance records revealing deferred repairs
- Cell phone records proving distracted driving
- Dashcam footage from nearby businesses
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Federal Regulation Expertise: We know how to use FMCSA violations to prove negligence:
- Hours of service violations (49 CFR Part 395)
- Driver qualification requirements (49 CFR Part 391)
- Vehicle maintenance standards (49 CFR Part 396)
- Cargo securement rules (49 CFR Part 393)
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Local Knowledge: We understand Howard County’s trucking corridors, from the oil field routes to the agricultural shipping lanes. We know where accidents are most likely to occur and why.
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Aggressive Negotiation: We never accept lowball settlement offers. Our team prepares every case as if it’s going to trial, which gives us leverage in negotiations.
Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Howard County
Our experience with Howard County trucking accidents reveals these frequent causes:
Driver Fatigue: Long hauls from the Permian Basin to distribution centers lead to exhausted drivers violating hours-of-service regulations.
Equipment Failures: The extreme West Texas heat causes tire blowouts and brake failures on poorly maintained trucks.
Improper Loading: Agricultural and oil field equipment is often improperly secured, leading to cargo shifts that destabilize trucks.
Distracted Driving: Drivers using cell phones or dispatch devices while navigating Howard County’s rural highways.
Speeding: Trucks rushing to meet tight delivery deadlines, especially on the straight stretches of I-20.
Negligent Hiring: Trucking companies cutting corners on background checks to fill driver shortages.
The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Howard County Trucking Cases
The size and weight disparity between trucks and passenger vehicles means trucking accidents often result in life-altering injuries:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): From mild concussions to severe brain damage requiring lifelong care
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Resulting in paraplegia or quadriplegia
- Amputations: When limbs are crushed or severed in the accident
- Severe Burns: From fuel fires or chemical spills
- Internal Organ Damage: From the extreme forces of truck impacts
- Wrongful Death: When families lose loved ones to preventable trucking accidents
These injuries often require millions of dollars in medical care and result in permanent disability. That’s why we fight for maximum compensation for our Howard County clients.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Howard County Trucking Accident?
Trucking accidents are complex because multiple parties may share responsibility. We investigate all potentially liable parties including:
- The Truck Driver: For negligent operation, fatigue, distraction, or impairment
- The Trucking Company: For negligent hiring, training, supervision, or maintenance
- The Cargo Owner: For improper loading or hazardous material violations
- The Loading Company: For cargo securement failures
- Truck/Trailer Manufacturers: For defective equipment
- Parts Manufacturers: For defective components like brakes or tires
- Maintenance Companies: For negligent repairs
- Freight Brokers: For negligent carrier selection
- Government Entities: For dangerous road conditions
The Insurance Advantage in Trucking Cases
Unlike car accidents where insurance may be limited to $30,000, trucking companies carry much higher insurance:
- $750,000 minimum for non-hazardous freight
- $1,000,000 minimum for oil field equipment
- $5,000,000 minimum for hazardous materials
Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more in coverage. This means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Howard County
If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Howard County, follow these critical steps:
- Call 911 immediately 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 Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911
Why Evidence Disappears Fast in Howard County Trucking Cases
Critical evidence in trucking cases can be lost forever if not preserved immediately:
- Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days
- ELD records may only be retained for 6 months
- Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days
- Surveillance video from nearby businesses typically overwrites in 7-30 days
- Physical evidence like the truck may be repaired or sold
That’s why we send spoliation letters immediately to preserve all evidence before it’s lost.
The Howard County Trucking Corridors We Know Best
Our familiarity with Howard County’s trucking routes helps us build stronger cases:
I-20 Corridor: The primary east-west route through Howard County, carrying transcontinental freight and local oil field traffic. Known for high-speed accidents and fatigue-related crashes.
US-87: The major north-south route connecting Big Spring to San Angelo and beyond. Common site of underride collisions and rollover accidents.
State Highway 350: A critical route for agricultural shipments and local trucking. Sharp turns and steep grades create rollover hazards.
FM 700: Connects Howard County to the Permian Basin oil fields. Heavy equipment traffic and narrow lanes increase accident risks.
Big Spring Industrial Park: A hub for distribution centers and manufacturing facilities that generates significant local truck traffic.
Recent Trucking Accident Verdicts That Show What’s Possible
While every case is unique, recent trucking verdicts demonstrate what juries are willing to award:
- $730 Million – Texas case involving an oversize load that killed a 73-year-old woman
- $462 Million – Missouri underride case where two men were decapitated
- $160 Million – Alabama rollover case that left a driver quadriplegic
- $150 Million – Texas settlement involving two children killed on I-30
- $37.5 Million – Texas trucking verdict for catastrophic injuries
These verdicts show that when trucking companies act with gross negligence, juries are willing to hold them fully accountable.
How We Prove Trucking Company Negligence in Howard County Cases
To win your case, we must prove the trucking company’s negligence caused your injuries. We do this by:
- Analyzing Black Box Data: Shows speed, braking, and hours of service violations
- Reviewing ELD Records: Proves fatigue and hours-of-service violations
- Examining Driver Qualification Files: Reveals negligent hiring or training
- Inspecting Maintenance Records: Shows deferred repairs and known defects
- Interviewing Witnesses: Provides independent accounts of what happened
- Consulting Accident Reconstruction Experts: Determines exactly how the accident occurred
- Reviewing Company Safety Records: Demonstrates patterns of negligence
The Types of Compensation Available in Howard County Trucking Cases
In Texas trucking accident cases, you may be entitled to:
Economic Damages:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Property damage
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Life care costs for catastrophic injuries
Non-Economic Damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement
- Physical impairment
- Loss of consortium (for spouses)
Punitive Damages:
- When the trucking company acted with gross negligence or malice
- Texas caps punitive damages at the greater of $200,000 or two times economic damages plus non-economic damages (up to $750,000)
Why Howard County Victims Choose Attorney911
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25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience: Ralph Manginello has been fighting trucking companies since 1998.
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Insurance Defense Background: Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies try to minimize claims.
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Federal Court Experience: We’re admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, which handles many interstate trucking cases.
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Multi-Million Dollar Results: We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims across Texas.
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Local Knowledge: We understand Howard County’s trucking corridors, courts, and insurance companies.
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No Fee Unless We Win: You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
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24/7 Availability: We answer calls immediately, even on nights and weekends.
What to Expect When You Call Attorney911
When you call our Howard County trucking accident hotline at 1-888-ATTY-911, here’s what happens:
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Immediate Case Evaluation: We’ll discuss your accident and injuries to determine if you have a case.
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Emergency Evidence Preservation: We’ll send spoliation letters immediately to preserve black box data and other critical evidence.
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Medical Care Coordination: We’ll help you get the treatment you need, even if you don’t have insurance.
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Comprehensive Investigation: We’ll gather all available evidence to build your case.
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Aggressive Negotiation: We’ll fight for maximum compensation from the trucking company’s insurance.
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Trial Preparation: If necessary, we’ll take your case to court to get you the justice you deserve.
Howard County-Specific Trucking Accident Concerns
Oil Field Trucking: The Permian Basin oil boom has dramatically increased truck traffic on Howard County roads. Oil field trucking presents unique risks including:
- Overweight and oversize loads
- Hazardous material transport
- Fatigued drivers working long hours
- Improperly secured equipment
- Poorly maintained vehicles
Agricultural Trucking: Howard County’s agricultural industry creates significant truck traffic, especially during harvest seasons. Agricultural trucking risks include:
- Seasonal spikes in truck traffic
- Improperly secured loads
- Overweight vehicles
- Driver fatigue during long harvest seasons
- Equipment that hasn’t been properly maintained
Extreme Weather Conditions: West Texas weather creates unique trucking hazards:
- Sudden dust storms that reduce visibility to zero
- Extreme heat that causes tire blowouts and brake failures
- Flash flooding on rural highways
- High winds that affect high-profile trailers
Driver Fatigue: The long, straight highways of West Texas create ideal conditions for driver fatigue. Many truckers push beyond federal hours-of-service limits to meet tight delivery deadlines.
The Trucking Companies We’ve Fought in Howard County Cases
Our experience includes cases against major trucking companies that operate in Howard County:
- Swift Transportation – Major presence in West Texas
- Werner Enterprises – Significant operations through Howard County
- Heartland Express – Local terminals serving the area
- Oil field trucking companies – Numerous carriers serving the Permian Basin
- Local agricultural haulers – Trucking companies serving Howard County farms
- Regional LTL carriers – Less-than-truckload carriers operating through Big Spring
How Long Do Howard County Trucking Accident Cases Take?
The timeline for your case depends on several factors:
- Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
- Moderate cases with disputed liability: 12-24 months
- Complex cases with catastrophic injuries: 2-4 years
- Cases that go to trial: 3-5 years
We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your compensation. Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to court.
The Howard County Courts That Handle Trucking Cases
Trucking accident cases in Howard County are typically filed in:
- Howard County District Court: For cases with severe injuries or complex liability issues
- Howard County Court at Law: For cases with damages under the district court’s jurisdiction
- U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas: For interstate trucking cases that fall under federal jurisdiction
Our familiarity with Howard County courts and judges helps us navigate your case more effectively.
What If You Were Partially at Fault for the Accident?
Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means:
- If you were less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages
- Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault
- If you were 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages
For example, if you’re found 20% at fault and your damages are $100,000, you would recover $80,000. That’s why it’s critical to have an experienced trucking accident attorney who can minimize your percentage of fault.
The Statute of Limitations for Howard County Trucking Accidents
In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death cases, you have 2 years from the date of death.
However, you should never wait this long to contact an attorney. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner we start investigating, the stronger your case will be.
Why Howard County Trucking Cases Are Worth More Than Car Accidents
Trucking accident cases typically result in higher compensation than car accidents for several reasons:
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Higher Insurance Limits: Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million in insurance, compared to $30,000 for most drivers.
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More Severe Injuries: The size and weight of trucks cause more catastrophic injuries.
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Multiple Liable Parties: More defendants mean more insurance coverage available.
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Federal Regulations: Violations of FMCSA regulations create strong negligence cases.
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Corporate Defendants: Trucking companies have deep pockets and can pay substantial verdicts.
The Attorney911 Difference for Howard County Clients
When you choose Attorney911 for your Howard County trucking accident case, you get:
- A team that treats you like family, not a case number
- Direct access to your attorney, not just a case manager
- Aggressive representation against trucking companies and their insurers
- A former insurance defense attorney who knows their tactics
- 25+ years of trucking litigation experience
- Federal court capability for interstate trucking cases
- Multi-million dollar results for trucking accident victims
- 24/7 availability when you need us most
Common Questions About Howard County Trucking Accidents
What should I do immediately after a trucking accident in Howard County?
Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene, get witness information, and call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911.
How much is my Howard County trucking accident case worth?
Case values depend on injury severity, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and available insurance. Trucking cases often result in settlements ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars.
Who can I sue after a trucking accident in Howard County?
You may be able to sue the truck driver, trucking company, cargo owner, loading company, maintenance provider, manufacturer, or other parties.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Howard County?
In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?
Never accept a quick settlement offer without consulting an attorney. These offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth.
How do I prove the truck driver was fatigued?
We use ELD records, black box data, dispatch records, and other evidence to prove hours-of-service violations.
What if the trucking company claims the driver was an independent contractor?
We investigate the relationship between the driver and company to determine liability. Even if the driver is an independent contractor, the trucking company may still be liable.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes, as long as you were less than 50% at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
We identify all available insurance policies and pursue claims against them. Many trucking companies carry excess insurance that remains available even if the company goes bankrupt.
How much does it cost to hire a Howard County trucking accident attorney?
At Attorney911, we work on contingency. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
Contact Attorney911 Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Howard County, Texas, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every day, and 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 consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and start protecting your rights. Remember, you pay nothing unless we win your case.
“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client
At Attorney911, we don’t just handle trucking accident cases—we fight for Howard County families who’ve been devastated by preventable truck crashes. Let us put our 25+ years of experience to work for you. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today.
