18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Coahoma, Texas: Holding Trucking Companies Accountable

When an 18-Wheeler Changes Your Life in Coahoma

The impact was catastrophic. Eighty thousand pounds of steel against your sedan on one of Coahoma’s highways. One moment, you’re driving to work or heading home to your family. The next, your world is turned upside down by a preventable trucking accident.

At Attorney911, we understand the devastation that 18-wheeler accidents bring to Coahoma families. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has spent over 25 years fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas. We know Coahoma’s trucking corridors, from the distribution centers to the weigh stations. We know how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Coahoma, Texas, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. Evidence disappears fast in trucking cases. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. Every hour you wait could be costing you your case.

Why Coahoma Trucking Accidents Are Different

Coahoma sits at the crossroads of major Texas trucking routes. The distribution centers and freight corridors that power our local economy also bring significant truck traffic through our community. While this commerce is vital, it creates unique risks for Coahoma residents.

Unlike typical car accidents, 18-wheeler crashes involve:

• Multiple liable parties – drivers, trucking companies, cargo loaders, maintenance providers, and more
• Federal trucking regulations – FMCSA rules that trucking companies routinely violate
• Massive insurance policies – $750,000 to $5 million or more in coverage
• Catastrophic injuries – TBI, spinal cord damage, amputations, and wrongful death
• Aggressive defense tactics – trucking companies hire rapid-response teams to protect their interests

Coahoma’s location in Howard County means our trucking accident cases often involve:

• Distribution center traffic from major retailers
• Oil and gas industry trucking serving the Permian Basin
• Agricultural freight moving through the region
• Long-haul truckers passing through on I-20
• Local delivery vehicles serving Coahoma businesses

The Physics of 18-Wheeler Accidents: Why They’re So Deadly

The sheer size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles makes these accidents particularly devastating:

• Weight: A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds – that’s 20-25 times heavier than the average car
• Stopping distance: At 65 mph, an 18-wheeler needs approximately 525 feet to stop (nearly two football fields)
• Force: The kinetic energy of an 80,000-pound truck at highway speeds is approximately 80 times greater than a passenger vehicle
• Trailer swing: Jackknife accidents can sweep across multiple lanes of traffic
• Underride risk: Passenger vehicles can slide under trailers, often with fatal consequences

These physics explain why Coahoma 18-wheeler accidents so often result in catastrophic injuries or wrongful death.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Coahoma

Our experience with Coahoma trucking accidents has revealed several common causes:

Driver Fatigue: The Silent Killer on Coahoma Highways

Fatigue is a factor in approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. Despite federal Hours of Service regulations, trucking companies continue to pressure drivers to exceed limits:

• 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: Must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: Cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days

In Coahoma, we frequently see violations of these rules, particularly among long-haul drivers passing through on I-20. The pressure to meet delivery deadlines often overrides safety concerns.

Distracted Driving: A Growing Threat in Coahoma

Distracted driving has become an epidemic in the trucking industry:

• Cell phone use – Texting while driving is 6 times more dangerous than drunk driving
• Dispatch communications – Electronic logging devices and messaging systems create constant distractions
• Navigation systems – GPS devices require visual attention
• Eating and drinking – Common among drivers trying to save time
• External distractions – Looking at accidents, billboards, or scenery

Federal regulations (49 CFR § 392.82) prohibit hand-held mobile phone use while driving commercial vehicles. Violations of these rules are common in Coahoma trucking accidents.

Improper Maintenance: When Profit Overrides Safety

Trucking companies often defer maintenance to save costs, leading to dangerous equipment failures:

• Brake failures – Responsible for 29% of truck crashes
• Tire blowouts – Cause 11,000 crashes annually nationwide
• Lighting failures – Make trucks invisible at night
• Steering failures – Can cause complete loss of control
• Coupling device failures – Can cause trailers to detach

In Coahoma, we’ve seen cases where trucks with known mechanical issues were sent back on the road to meet delivery schedules. This negligence puts everyone at risk.

Cargo Securement Failures: Preventable Disasters

Improperly secured cargo causes rollovers, jackknife accidents, and debris spills:

• Shifting loads – Can destabilize the truck, causing rollovers
• Falling cargo – Creates road hazards that strike other vehicles
• Overweight loads – Exceed weight ratings, making trucks harder to control
• Hazardous material spills – Create additional dangers

Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) specify exact securement requirements. Violations are common in Coahoma trucking accidents.

Blind Spot Accidents: Coahoma’s “No-Zone” Danger

Commercial trucks have massive blind spots that Coahoma drivers need to understand:

• Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
• Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
• Left Side No-Zone: From the cab door backward
• Right Side No-Zone: The largest blind spot – extends from the cab door backward and is much larger than the left side

Many Coahoma trucking accidents occur when drivers change lanes without seeing vehicles in these blind spots.

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents We Handle in Coahoma

Our firm has experience with all types of commercial truck accidents in Coahoma:

Jackknife Accidents

When a truck’s cab and trailer fold at an angle like a pocket knife, often sweeping across multiple lanes of traffic. Common causes in Coahoma include:

• Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
• Speeding on curves
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers
• Improper cargo loading
• Brake system failures

Rollover Accidents

When a truck tips onto its side or roof, often involving multiple vehicles. Common causes in Coahoma include:

• Speeding on curves or ramps
• Improperly secured cargo
• Liquid cargo “slosh” shifting center of gravity
• Overcorrection after tire blowout or lane departure
• Driver fatigue or distraction

Underride Collisions

When a passenger vehicle slides underneath a trailer, often with fatal consequences:

• Rear underride: Vehicle strikes the back of a trailer
• Side underride: Vehicle impacts the side of a trailer during lane changes or turns

These accidents are particularly deadly in Coahoma, where trailer heights often cause passenger compartments to be sheared off.

Tire Blowouts

Tire failures cause loss of control and debris hazards. Common causes in Coahoma include:

• Underinflated tires
• Overloaded vehicles
• Worn or aging tires
• Road debris punctures
• Manufacturing defects
• Improper tire matching

Brake Failures

When braking systems fail or underperform, preventing drivers from stopping in time. Common causes in Coahoma include:

• Worn brake pads or shoes
• Improper brake adjustment
• Air brake system leaks
• Overheated brakes on long descents
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Defective brake components

Cargo Spills

When improperly secured cargo falls from trucks or shifts during transit. Common causes in Coahoma include:

• Inadequate tiedowns
• Improper loading distribution
• Failure to use blocking or bracing
• Tiedown failure due to wear or damage
• Overloading beyond securement capacity

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

When trucks swing wide before making right turns, creating gaps that other vehicles enter. Common causes in Coahoma include:

• Failure to properly signal turning intention
• Inadequate mirror checks
• Improper turn technique
• Failure to yield right-of-way
• Poor intersection design

Rear-End Collisions

When trucks strike vehicles in front of them, often with catastrophic results. Common causes in Coahoma include:

• Following too closely
• Driver distraction
• Driver fatigue
• Excessive speed for conditions
• Brake failures
• Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns

Who Is Liable in Coahoma 18-Wheeler Accidents?

One of the most important differences between car accidents and trucking accidents is the number of potentially liable parties. In Coahoma trucking cases, we investigate and pursue claims against:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for negligent conduct such as:

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

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets and highest insurance coverage. They can be liable for:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

• The driver was an employee (not independent contractor)
• Acting within the scope of employment
• Performing job duties when the accident occurred

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent Hiring: Failed to check driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
• Negligent Training: Inadequate training on safety, cargo securement, hours of service
• Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance or ELD compliance
• Negligent Maintenance: Failed to maintain vehicle in safe condition
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations

The Cargo Owner/Shipper

The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable for:

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
• Requiring overweight loading
• Pressuring carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
• Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics

The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
• Not training loaders on securement requirements

The Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

The manufacturer may be liable for defects in:

• Brake systems
• Steering components
• Tires
• Lighting systems
• Stability control systems
• Coupling devices

The Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufacture specific parts may be liable for:

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

The Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets may be liable for:

• 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

The Freight Broker

Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for:

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

The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may have separate liability for:

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

Government Entities

Federal, state, or local government may be liable in limited circumstances for:

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

The Evidence That Wins Coahoma Trucking Cases

In 18-wheeler 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.

Electronic Data: The Truck’s “Black Box”

Commercial trucks have sophisticated electronic systems that record operational data:

• Engine Control Module (ECM): Records engine performance, speed, throttle, RPM, cruise control, fault codes
• Event Data Recorder (EDR): Records pre-crash data triggered by sudden deceleration or airbag deployment
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD): Records driver hours of service, GPS location, driving time
• Telematics: Real-time GPS tracking, speed, route, driver behavior
• Dashcam: Video of the road ahead, some record cab interior

This data can prove:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Throttle position
• Following distance
• Hours of service violations
• GPS location and route
• Whether cruise control was engaged

Driver Records: The Paper Trail of Negligence

We subpoena the trucking company’s complete records on the driver:

• Driver Qualification File: Employment application, background check, driving record, medical certification, drug test results, training records
• Hours of Service Records: ELD data, paper logs (if used), dispatch records
• Previous Employer Inquiries: 3-year driving history investigation
• Performance Reviews: Documentation of any safety issues or violations
• Disciplinary Records: Any prior accidents or violations

Vehicle Records: Maintenance and Inspection History

We obtain complete maintenance and inspection records:

• Maintenance Records: All repairs and services performed
• Inspection Reports: Pre-trip, post-trip, annual inspections
• Out-of-Service Orders: Any violations found during inspections
• Parts Purchase Records: Documentation of replacement parts
• Tire Records: Purchase dates, tread depth measurements, replacement history

Other Critical Evidence

• Police Crash Report: Official documentation of the accident
• Photographs: Of the scene, vehicles, injuries, road conditions
• Witness Statements: From other drivers, pedestrians, nearby residents
• Surveillance Video: From nearby businesses or traffic cameras
• Cell Phone Records: To prove distracted driving
• Dispatch Records: Communications between driver and company
• Cargo Manifest: Details about the load being carried
• The Physical Truck and Trailer: For inspection by accident reconstruction experts

The Catastrophic Injuries from Coahoma 18-Wheeler Accidents

The physics of trucking accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. In Coahoma, we’ve seen:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when a sudden trauma damages the brain. In 18-wheeler accidents, the extreme forces cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull.

Severity Levels:

Common Symptoms:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory loss and confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes, depression, anxiety
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
• Speech difficulties
• Personality changes

Long-Term Consequences:

• Permanent cognitive impairment
• Inability to work
• Need for ongoing care and supervision
• Increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s
• Depression and emotional disorders

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of Paralysis:

Level of Injury Matters:

• Higher injuries (cervical spine) affect more body functions
• C1-C4 injuries may require ventilator for breathing
• Lower injuries (lumbar) affect legs but not arms

Amputation

Amputations occur when limbs are severed at the scene or require surgical removal due to severe damage.

Types:

• Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the scene due to crash forces
• Surgical Amputation: Limb so severely damaged it must be surgically removed

Ongoing Medical Needs:

• Initial surgery and hospitalization
• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ per prosthetic)
• Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Occupational therapy for daily living skills
• Psychological counseling

Severe Burns

Burns occur from fuel tank ruptures, hazmat cargo spills, electrical fires, or friction burns.

Burn Classification:

Internal Organ Damage

Internal injuries may not show immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening.

Common Internal Injuries:

• Liver laceration or rupture
• Spleen damage requiring removal
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusion or collapse (pneumothorax)
• Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
• Bowel and intestinal damage

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can bring wrongful death claims.

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas:

• Surviving spouse
• Children (minor and adult)
• Parents (especially if no spouse or children)
• Estate representative

Damages Available:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
• Mental anguish and emotional distress
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred prior to death
• Pain and suffering experienced by decedent before death
• Punitive damages (if gross negligence)

The Damages You Can Recover in Coahoma Trucking Cases

Texas law allows you to recover three types of damages in 18-wheeler accident cases:

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 to medical appointments, 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)

Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company or driver acted with:

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

Texas caps punitive damages at the greater of:

• (2 × economic damages) + (non-economic damages up to $750,000), or
• $200,000

Why You Need a Coahoma 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney Immediately

Evidence Disappears Fast

In trucking cases, critical evidence can be destroyed or overwritten quickly:

• ECM/Black Box Data: Overwrites in 30 days or with new driving events
• ELD Data: May be retained only 6 months
• Dashcam Footage: Often deleted within 7-14 days
• Surveillance Video: Business cameras typically overwrite in 7-30 days
• Witness Memory: Fades significantly within weeks
• Physical Evidence: Vehicle may be repaired, sold, or scrapped

Trucking Companies Act Fast to Protect Themselves

Within hours of a Coahoma trucking accident:

• Rapid-response teams arrive to document the scene
• Lawyers are retained to protect the company’s interests
• Evidence preservation protocols are activated
• Insurance adjusters begin contacting victims

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

At Attorney911, we have a 48-hour protocol to preserve evidence in Coahoma trucking cases:

1. Send Spoliation Letters: Formal legal notice demanding preservation of all evidence
2. Demand ECM/Black Box Data: Immediately download all electronic data
3. Preserve ELD Records: Secure driver hours of service data
4. Obtain Dashcam Footage: Download all available video
5. Secure Surveillance Video: Canvass area for business cameras
6. Photograph the Scene: Document road conditions, skid marks, debris
7. Inspect the Truck: Before repairs or disposal
8. Interview Witnesses: Before memories fade
9. Preserve Physical Evidence: Failed components, cargo, securement devices
10. Obtain Police Reports: Official documentation of the accident

The Attorney911 Advantage: Why Coahoma Families Choose Us

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998. Our firm has handled cases against:

• Walmart trucking operations
• Coca-Cola distribution vehicles
• Amazon delivery trucks
• FedEx trucks
• UPS trucks
• Various commercial trucking companies

Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for interstate trucking cases that can be filed in federal court.

Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurers evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. He spent years on the other side – now he fights for you.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions for Coahoma families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. While every case is unique, our track record demonstrates our ability to hold trucking companies accountable.

Bilingual Services

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

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Local Knowledge of Coahoma

We know Coahoma’s trucking corridors, from the distribution centers to the weigh stations. We know the local courts and judges. We know how to build cases that resonate with Coahoma juries.

The Legal Process for Coahoma 18-Wheeler Cases

Step 1: Free Consultation

We offer free, no-obligation consultations to Coahoma trucking accident victims. During this consultation:

• We listen to your story
• We evaluate the strength of your case
• We explain your legal options
• We answer all your questions
• We explain our contingency fee arrangement

Step 2: Investigation

Once you retain us, we immediately begin investigating your case:

• Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
• Obtain and analyze ECM/ELD data
• Subpoena driver qualification files
• Review maintenance and inspection records
• Interview witnesses
• Inspect the accident scene
• Retain accident reconstruction experts

Step 3: Medical Care Facilitation

We help you get the medical care you need:

• Connect you with Coahoma medical providers
• Arrange treatment even if you have no insurance
• Help you understand your treatment options
• Ensure your medical records document all injuries

Step 4: Demand Letter

We prepare a comprehensive demand letter to the trucking company’s insurance carrier, calculating all your damages:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Physical impairment
• Disfigurement
• Loss of consortium

Step 5: Negotiation

We negotiate aggressively with the insurance company:

• Present the evidence of their liability
• Document the full extent of your damages
• Counter their attempts to minimize your claim
• Push for the maximum settlement possible

Step 6: Litigation (If Necessary)

If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we file a lawsuit:

• Draft and file the complaint
• Conduct discovery (interrogatories, document requests, depositions)
• Retain expert witnesses
• Prepare for trial
• Continue settlement negotiations from a position of strength

Step 7: Trial or Settlement

The vast majority of cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation gives us leverage in settlement negotiations.

If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’re fully prepared to take your case to trial before a Coahoma jury.

Frequently Asked Questions About Coahoma 18-Wheeler Accidents

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Coahoma?

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Coahoma, 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 at 1-888-ATTY-911

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. Coahoma 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 Coahoma?

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 Coahoma?

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.

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

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.

How do I find out if the trucking company has a bad safety record?

FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain the carrier’s:

• CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
• Inspection history and out-of-service rates
• Crash history
• Safety rating

A poor safety record can prove the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on the road.

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 airplane black boxes. 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 Coahoma?

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 Coahoma?

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 Coahoma?

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 Coahoma?

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years for personal injury and wrongful death cases. 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.

Call Attorney911 Now for Your Free Coahoma Trucking Accident Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Coahoma, Texas, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. Every hour you wait, critical evidence is disappearing.

• Free consultation – We’ll evaluate your case at no cost
• No fee unless we win – You pay nothing upfront
• 24/7 availability – We answer trucking accident calls immediately
• Local Coahoma knowledge – We know the courts, judges, and trucking corridors
• Insurance defense insider – Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney
• Federal court experience – We can handle interstate trucking cases
• Bilingual services – Hablamos Español

Don’t let the trucking company’s lawyers and insurance adjusters take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

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