18-Wheeler Accidents in Deport, Texas: Your Complete Legal Guide

When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Your Life in an Instant

The moment an 18-wheeler crashes into your vehicle on Lamar County’s highways, your life changes forever. One second you’re driving down US-271 or FM-197, the next you’re facing catastrophic injuries, mounting medical bills, and a trucking company that’s already building its defense. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a commercial truck accident in Deport, Texas, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a legal emergency response team that knows how to fight the trucking industry’s rapid-response tactics.

At Attorney911, we’ve been protecting Lamar County families from negligent trucking companies for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for victims of catastrophic truck crashes. When you call us at 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re not just getting a law firm—you’re getting a team that includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows every trick the trucking companies will use to minimize your claim.

Why Deport’s Trucking Corridors Are So Dangerous

Deport sits at the crossroads of several critical trucking routes that connect North Texas to Arkansas and the Gulf Coast. The combination of heavy commercial traffic, rural road conditions, and pressure to meet delivery deadlines creates a perfect storm for trucking accidents:

• US-271: This major north-south corridor carries significant truck traffic between Paris, Texas and Hugo, Oklahoma, including oilfield equipment, agricultural products, and general freight. The two-lane sections and sharp curves create dangerous conditions when truck drivers fail to adjust their speed.

• FM-197: Connecting Deport to Clarksville and beyond, this route sees heavy agricultural trucking, especially during harvest seasons. Overloaded grain trucks and fatigued drivers pose significant risks to passenger vehicles.

• FM-194: Running east-west through Deport, this route carries local traffic and commercial vehicles serving Lamar County’s agricultural and manufacturing industries.

• Nearby I-30: While not directly through Deport, this major interstate runs just 30 miles south of town, carrying massive volumes of freight between Dallas-Fort Worth and Arkansas. Many trucking companies route their drivers through Lamar County to avoid interstate congestion, bringing big rigs onto local roads that weren’t designed for them.

The rural nature of these roads means limited shoulders, fewer traffic controls, and longer response times for emergency services—all factors that increase the severity of trucking accidents in our area.

The Brutal Physics of 18-Wheeler Accidents

When a fully loaded 18-wheeler weighing up to 80,000 pounds collides with your 3,500-pound sedan, the results are catastrophic. The physics don’t lie:

• Impact Force: An 80,000-pound truck traveling at 65 mph carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a passenger car at the same speed. This energy transfers directly to your vehicle in a crash.

• Stopping Distance: At 65 mph, a fully loaded 18-wheeler needs about 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields. Your car needs only about 300 feet. This 40% longer stopping distance means truck drivers have less time to react to obstacles or stopped traffic.

• Size Disparity: The average 18-wheeler is 70-80 feet long and stands 13.5 feet tall. Your sedan is about 15 feet long and 5 feet tall. This size difference means you’re literally no match for a big rig in a collision.

These physical realities explain why trucking accidents in Deport and Lamar County so often result in life-altering injuries or wrongful death. The trucking industry knows these risks, which is why they’re required to carry much higher insurance limits than regular drivers.

Common Types of Trucking Accidents in Deport

Our attorneys have handled every type of commercial vehicle accident that occurs on Lamar County’s roads:

Jackknife Accidents

When a truck’s trailer swings out at a 90-degree angle to the cab, it creates a massive obstacle that sweeps across multiple lanes. These often occur on US-271’s curves when drivers brake suddenly or on wet roads. Jackknife accidents account for about 10% of all trucking-related fatalities.

Underride Collisions

One of the most deadly accident types, underride collisions occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler. The trailer’s height often shears off the top of the smaller vehicle, resulting in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries. Rear underride guards are required by federal law (49 CFR § 393.86), but side underride guards are not—despite side underride accidents being particularly deadly.

Tire Blowouts

Lamar County’s rural roads often have debris that can puncture truck tires. When a steer tire (front tire) blows out, the driver can lose control completely. Even rear tire blowouts can cause the trailer to swing dangerously. Tire blowouts cause over 11,000 crashes annually nationwide.

Rollover Accidents

Top-heavy 18-wheelers are prone to rollovers, especially on FM-197’s curves or when taking exits too fast. Improperly secured cargo or liquid loads that shift can make rollovers more likely. These accidents often result in crushing injuries to other vehicles or cargo spills that create additional hazards.

Rear-End Collisions

The most common type of truck accident, rear-end collisions are particularly devastating due to the massive weight difference. A truck following too closely or failing to brake in time can crush a passenger vehicle, causing spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and wrongful death.

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

When trucks swing wide to make right turns, they create a gap that other vehicles may try to enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing the smaller vehicle. These are common in Deport where trucks need to navigate tight turns at intersections.

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)

Trucks have massive blind spots—20 feet in front, 30 feet behind, and large areas on both sides. When truck drivers change lanes without properly checking these blind spots, they can sideswipe or force other vehicles off the road.

Brake Failure

With Lamar County’s rolling hills and long descents, brake failure is a serious concern. Poorly maintained brakes can overheat and fail, especially on FM-194’s elevation changes. Brake problems are a factor in 29% of all large truck crashes.

Cargo Spills

Improperly secured cargo can fall from trucks, creating road hazards. In agricultural areas like Lamar County, we see grain spills, hay bales falling, and even livestock escaping from trailers. These spills cause secondary accidents when drivers swerve to avoid debris.

Head-On Collisions

When a truck crosses the center line on two-lane roads like US-271, the results are almost always fatal for the occupants of the smaller vehicle. These often occur when fatigued drivers fall asleep at the wheel or when distracted drivers veer into oncoming traffic.

Who’s Really Responsible for Your Injuries?

In car accidents, usually only one driver is at fault. In trucking accidents, multiple parties may share responsibility for your injuries. At Attorney911, we investigate every potentially liable party to maximize your recovery:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

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

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

The company that employs the driver is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets and highest insurance limits. They can be liable for:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

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

Direct Negligence:

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

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies try to avoid liability. We use that insider knowledge to build stronger cases for our clients.

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 the carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
• Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics

The Cargo Loading Company

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

• Improper cargo securement (violating 49 CFR 393.100-136)
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
• Not training loaders on securement requirements

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

The companies that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for:

• Design defects (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement)
• Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

Parts Manufacturers

Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for:

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

Maintenance Companies

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

Freight Brokers

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

• Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
• 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 the vehicle
• Failure to maintain owned equipment
• Knowledge of the 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

Special Considerations for Government Liability in Texas:

• Sovereign immunity limits government liability
• Strict notice requirements and short deadlines (as little as 90 days in some cases)
• Must prove actual notice of the dangerous condition in many cases

The Evidence That Wins Trucking Cases

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

Electronic Data That Must Be Preserved Immediately

• ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, throttle position, and fault codes. Can be overwritten in 30 days.
• ELD Data: Electronic Logging Devices record driver hours of service. FMCSA requires 6 months retention, but companies often delete data sooner.
• GPS/Telematics Data: Shows real-time location, speed, and route history.
• Cell Phone Records: Prove distracted driving if the driver was texting or using a phone.
• Dashcam Footage: Forward-facing and cab-facing cameras that show the accident. Often deleted within 7-14 days.
• Dispatch Records: Communications between the driver and company about routes and deadlines.

Driver and Company Records

• Driver Qualification File: Contains employment application, background check, medical certification, training records, and drug test history.
• Hours of Service Records: Paper logs or ELD data showing driving time and rest periods.
• Maintenance Records: Show if the truck was properly maintained and if known defects were ignored.
• Inspection Reports: Pre-trip, post-trip, and annual inspection records.
• Drug and Alcohol Test Results: Must be conducted within specific time windows after an accident.
• Training Records: Show if the driver received proper safety training.

Physical Evidence

• The Truck and Trailer: Must be preserved for inspection before repairs.
• Failed Components: Tires, brakes, steering parts that may have caused the accident.
• Cargo and Securement Devices: Show if cargo shifted or fell due to improper securement.
• Skid Marks and Debris: Help reconstruct the accident sequence.
• Photographs and Videos: From the scene, nearby businesses, and traffic cameras.

How We Preserve Evidence Before It Disappears

At Attorney911, we move fast to preserve evidence before the trucking company can destroy it. Here’s our 48-hour evidence preservation protocol:

1. Spoliation Letter Sent Within 24-48 Hours

   • Formal legal notice demanding preservation of all evidence
   • Sent to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties
   • Creates legal consequences if evidence is destroyed

2. Immediate Evidence Collection

   • Obtain police accident reports
   • Interview witnesses before memories fade
   • Photograph the scene, vehicles, and injuries
   • Secure surveillance footage from nearby businesses

3. Electronic Data Preservation

   • Demand immediate download of ECM/black box data
   • Subpoena ELD records
   • Obtain GPS and telematics data
   • Subpoena cell phone records

4. Vehicle Inspection

   • Inspect the truck and trailer before repairs
   • Document all damage and defects
   • Preserve failed components for analysis

5. Expert Deployment

   • Accident reconstruction experts
   • Mechanical engineers to inspect vehicle systems
   • Medical experts to document injuries

FMCSA Regulations That Prove Negligence

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates commercial trucking through Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR). These regulations create legal standards that trucking companies must follow. When they violate these rules, it’s strong evidence of negligence.

Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations (49 CFR Part 395)

These are the most commonly violated regulations in trucking accidents:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Drivers cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
• 14-Hour Duty Window: Drivers cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty.
• 30-Minute Break: Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving.
• 60/70-Hour Limit: Drivers cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days.
• 34-Hour Restart: Drivers can restart their 60/70-hour clock with 34 consecutive hours off duty.

Why HOS Violations Matter:
Fatigue is a factor in 31% of fatal truck crashes. When drivers violate HOS regulations, they’re too tired to react safely. ELD data proves these violations objectively.

Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR Part 391)

Trucking companies must maintain a Driver Qualification (DQ) File for every driver containing:

• Employment application with complete work history
• Motor vehicle record from the state licensing authority
• Road test certificate or equivalent
• Medical examiner’s certificate (valid for up to 2 years)
• Annual driving record review
• Previous employer inquiries (3-year driving history investigation)
• Drug and alcohol test records

Why DQ Files Matter:
Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring. If the company failed to check the driver’s background or hired someone with a poor safety record, they’re directly liable for your injuries.

Vehicle Safety Standards (49 CFR Part 393)

These regulations establish equipment and cargo securement standards:

• Brakes: All CMVs must have properly functioning brake systems that meet specific requirements.
• Tires: Minimum tread depth (4/32″ on steer tires, 2/32″ on others) and no visible damage.
• Lighting: Required headlamps, tail lamps, stop lamps, clearance lamps, and reflectors.
• Cargo Securement: Cargo must be immobilized to prevent shifting that affects vehicle stability.
  • Aggregate working load limit must be at least 50% of cargo weight
  • At least one tiedown for cargo 5 feet or less in length
  • At least two tiedowns for cargo over 5 feet or under 1,100 lbs
  • Additional tiedowns for every 10 feet of cargo length

Why Vehicle Standards Matter:
Brake failures cause 29% of truck accidents. Cargo securement violations cause rollovers and spills. When trucks aren’t properly maintained, it’s clear evidence of negligence.

Driving Rules (49 CFR Part 392)

These regulations establish safe driving practices:

• Fatigued Driving (392.3): Drivers cannot operate while impaired by fatigue.
• Drugs and Alcohol (392.4/5): Drivers cannot use alcohol within 4 hours of driving or have a BAC of .04 or higher.
• Speeding (392.6): Companies cannot schedule runs that require speeding.
• Following Too Closely (392.11): Drivers must maintain a safe following distance.
• Mobile Phone Use (392.82): Drivers are prohibited from using hand-held mobile phones while driving.

Why Driving Rules Matter:
These regulations create clear standards for safe operation. Violations are direct evidence of negligence that juries understand.

Inspection and Maintenance (49 CFR Part 396)

These regulations require systematic inspection and maintenance:

• Pre-Trip Inspections (396.13): Drivers must inspect their vehicles before each trip.
• Post-Trip Reports (396.11): Drivers must prepare written reports on vehicle condition after each day’s driving.
• Annual Inspections (396.17): Every CMV must pass a comprehensive annual inspection.
• Maintenance Records (396.3): Companies must maintain records of all repairs and maintenance.

Why Maintenance Matters:
Poor maintenance causes accidents. If the trucking company failed to conduct inspections or ignored known defects, they’re directly liable for your injuries.

The Catastrophic Injuries That Change Lives Forever

The physics of trucking accidents mean catastrophic injuries are the norm, not the exception. When an 80,000-pound truck collides with your vehicle, the results are often life-altering:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

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

Severity Levels:

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

Lifetime Care Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

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

Types of Paralysis:

• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
• Incomplete Injury: Some nerve function remains
• Complete Injury: No nerve function below the injury

Lifetime Care Costs:

• Paraplegia: $1.1 million to $2.5 million+
• Quadriplegia: $3.5 million to $5 million+

Amputation

When limbs are severed at the scene or must be surgically removed due to severe damage.

Ongoing Needs:

• Initial surgery and hospitalization
• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ each)
• Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Psychological counseling

Severe Burns

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

Burn Classification:

• First Degree: Epidermis only (minor, heals without scarring)
• Second Degree: Epidermis and dermis (may scar, may need grafting)
• Third Degree: Full thickness (requires skin grafts, permanent scarring)
• Fourth Degree: Through skin to muscle/bone (multiple surgeries, amputation may be required)

Internal Organ Damage

The crushing forces of trucking accidents often cause internal injuries that aren’t immediately apparent:

• 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, Texas law allows surviving family members to recover:

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

The Compensation You Deserve

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than regular drivers—typically $750,000 to $5,000,000 or more. This means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, unlike in car accidents where insurance limits may be exhausted quickly.

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

• Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs including hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and home care.
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to injury and recovery time.
• Lost Earning Capacity: Reduction in your ability to earn income in the future.
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle.
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, and other accident-related costs.
• Life Care Costs: Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries including medical equipment, home health aides, and specialized facilities.

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain from your injuries.
• Mental Anguish: Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression.
• Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed.
• Disfigurement: Scarring and visible injuries that affect your appearance.
• Loss of Consortium: Impact on your marriage and 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 Punitive Damages Cap:
Greater of:

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

The Nuclear Verdicts That Are Changing the Trucking Industry

Juries are sending a clear message to the trucking industry: negligence that causes catastrophic injuries will be punished severely. Recent verdicts in trucking cases have reached unprecedented levels:

• $1 Billion (2021, Florida): 18-year-old killed; $100M compensatory + $900M punitive for gross negligence in hiring
• $730 Million (2021, Texas): Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman
• $462 Million (2024, Missouri): Two men decapitated in underride crash
• $160 Million (2024, Alabama): Rollover left driver quadriplegic
• $150 Million (2022, Texas): Werner settlement for two children killed on I-30
• $141.5 Million (2023, Florida): Nuclear verdict against defunct carrier

Why These Verdicts Matter for Your Case:
These verdicts show what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable. Insurance companies know juries are willing to award massive damages—which strengthens our position in settlement negotiations.

The Insurance Company Tactics You’ll Face

Trucking companies and their insurers have teams of lawyers and adjusters working 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.

Common Insurance Tactics and Our Counter-Strategies:

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Deport

If you’ve been involved in a commercial truck accident in Deport or anywhere in Lamar County, follow these steps to protect your rights:

1. Call 911 Immediately

   • Report the accident and request police and emergency medical services
   • Lamar County Sheriff’s Office or Texas DPS will respond to rural accidents

2. Seek Medical Attention

   • Even if you feel okay, get checked out immediately
   • Adrenaline masks pain—internal injuries may not be apparent
   • Visit Paris Regional Medical Center or your local emergency room
   • Follow up with specialists as needed

3. Document the Scene

   • Take photos of all vehicle damage (truck and your vehicle)
   • Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks
   • Get the truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company name
   • Collect witness names and contact information

4. Get the Driver’s Information

   • Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
   • Trucking company name, address, and insurance information
   • Don’t discuss fault or apologize—anything you say can be used against you

5. Preserve Evidence

   • Don’t let the trucking company repair or dispose of the truck
   • Demand that they preserve the black box and ELD data
   • Save all medical records and bills

6. Call an 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney Immediately

   • Critical evidence disappears quickly
   • We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve evidence
   • Don’t give statements to insurance adjusters without legal representation

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Deport Trucking Accident Case

When you’re facing the trucking industry’s powerful legal teams, you need more than just any lawyer—you need a specialized trucking accident firm with the experience, resources, and insider knowledge to fight back. Here’s why Attorney911 is the right choice for your Deport trucking accident case:

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998. He has federal court experience in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against major trucking companies.

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for a national defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight FOR you, not against you.

Proven Track Record of Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions for Texas families devastated by trucking accidents. While every case is unique, our results demonstrate our ability to hold trucking companies accountable:

• $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

Federal Court Experience for Interstate Trucking Cases

Many trucking accidents involve interstate commerce and can be filed in federal court. Our federal court admission means we can handle these complex cases that other firms may not be equipped to pursue.

Bilingual Services for Lamar County’s Hispanic Community

Deport 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 and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español.

Three Texas Office Locations Serving Lamar County

With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we’re never far from Deport. Our attorneys regularly handle trucking cases throughout Northeast Texas and understand the local courts, judges, and trucking corridors.

Aggressive Evidence Preservation

We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained to preserve critical evidence before it’s destroyed. We know what evidence to demand and how to obtain it through subpoenas and legal action.

Comprehensive Investigation Team

Our investigations go beyond what police reports reveal. We:

• Obtain and analyze black box and ELD data
• Subpoena driver qualification files and maintenance records
• Hire accident reconstruction experts
• Interview witnesses before memories fade
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Trial-Ready Representation

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. When necessary, we take cases all the way to verdict.

Contingency Fee Representation

You pay nothing upfront. We work on contingency—you only pay if 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.

Lamar County’s Trusted Trucking Accident Attorneys

When you call Attorney911, you’re getting more than just legal representation—you’re getting a team that treats you like family. Our clients consistently praise our personal attention, aggressive representation, and commitment to maximizing their recovery:

“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

“In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”
— Greg Garcia, Attorney911 Client

The Attorney911 Difference

Frequently Asked Questions About Trucking Accidents in Deport

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Lamar County, take these steps immediately if you’re able:

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

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 Deport?

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

What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?

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

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

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. If you’re less than 50% at fault, your damages are reduced by your percentage of fault. 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 duty
• 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 Deport?

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 Lamar County?

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 Deport?

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 Texas?

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

How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

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

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

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

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

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

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

Your Fight Starts With One Call

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Deport, Texas, you don’t have time to wait. Evidence is disappearing right now. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect them. You need someone protecting you.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. Our Lamar County trucking accident attorneys offer free consultations and work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Remember: Every hour you wait, evidence in your Deport trucking accident case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. Call Attorney911 NOW at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence.

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience fighting trucking companies in Lamar County and across Texas. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows every tactic the trucking company will use against you. When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re getting a legal emergency response team that treats you like family.

Don’t let the trucking company push you around. Fight back with the Deport trucking accident attorneys who know how to win. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now—before it’s too late.

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.

Attorney911 – The Firm Insurers Fear
1-888-ATTY-911 | 1-888-288-9911
ralph@atty911.com | https://attorney911.com

Serving Deport, Paris, Clarksville, and all of Lamar County, Texas