18-Wheeler Accidents in Moline, Texas: Your Complete Guide to Justice and Compensation
When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Your Life in an Instant
Every year, thousands of Texas families experience the devastating impact of 18-wheeler accidents. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in Moline, Texas, you’re facing one of the most challenging battles of your life. The physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial uncertainty can feel overwhelming. But you don’t have to face this alone.
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our Moline 18-wheeler accident attorneys understand the unique challenges of trucking cases in Mills County and throughout Central Texas. We know the local roads, the trucking corridors, and most importantly, we know how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.
Why Moline Trucking Accidents Are Different
Moline sits at the crossroads of several critical Texas trucking routes. The intersection of US-84, US-183, and FM-574 creates a high-traffic area where commercial trucks frequently pass through. The rural nature of Mills County means:
- Long stretches of highway with limited emergency services
- Higher speeds on rural roads
- Agricultural trucks mixing with commercial freight
- Limited truck parking and rest areas
- Unique weather conditions affecting road safety
These factors combine to create a perfect storm for trucking accidents. When they happen, the results are often catastrophic.
The Physics of Devastation: Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are So Severe
The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks make their accidents fundamentally different from car crashes:
- Weight Disparity: A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh 80,000 pounds – 20-25 times heavier than your passenger car
- Stopping Distance: At 65 mph, an 18-wheeler needs approximately 525 feet to stop (nearly two football fields)
- Impact Force: The kinetic energy of an 80,000-pound truck at highway speeds is roughly 80 times that of a passenger vehicle
- Trailer Dynamics: Trailers can swing, jackknife, or roll over, creating unpredictable hazards
- Cargo Risks: Improperly secured cargo can shift, spill, or become deadly projectiles
This physics explains why trucking accidents so often result in catastrophic injuries or wrongful death.
Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Moline
Our attorneys have handled every type of trucking accident that occurs on Moline’s roads:
Jackknife Accidents
When the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes. Common causes:
- Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
- Speeding on curves
- Empty or lightly loaded trailers
- Brake system failures
Underride Collisions
When a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer, often shearing off the roof. These are among the most deadly accidents:
- Rear underride: Vehicle strikes back of trailer
- Side underride: Vehicle impacts trailer side during lane changes
- Often fatal due to passenger compartment intrusion
Rollover Accidents
When the truck tips onto its side or roof. Common in Moline due to:
- Speeding on rural curves
- Top-heavy loads
- Overcorrection after tire blowouts
- Improper cargo securement
Rear-End Collisions
When a truck strikes the back of another vehicle. Particularly dangerous in Moline because:
- Trucks need 40% more stopping distance
- Rural roads often have sudden stops (deer, slow-moving vehicles)
- Following too closely is a common violation
Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)
When trucks swing wide before right turns, creating dangerous gaps. Common at Moline intersections where:
- Trucks need to swing wide to avoid curbs
- Drivers fail to check mirrors properly
- Passenger vehicles enter the “squeeze zone”
Blind Spot Collisions (“No-Zone” Accidents)
When trucks change lanes without seeing vehicles in their blind spots. The four No-Zones:
- Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
- Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
- Left Side No-Zone: From cab door backward
- Right Side No-Zone: Largest blind spot, from cab door backward
Tire Blowout Accidents
Particularly common in Texas due to heat and long distances. Causes:
- Underinflated tires
- Overloaded vehicles
- Worn or aging tires
- Road debris
- Manufacturing defects
Brake Failure Accidents
Responsible for 29% of truck crashes. Causes:
- Worn brake pads not replaced
- Improper brake adjustment
- Air brake system leaks
- Overheated brakes on long descents
- Deferred maintenance
The Most Common Injuries in Moline Trucking Accidents
The forces involved in 18-wheeler accidents cause injuries far more severe than typical car crashes:
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Mild TBI (Concussion): Headaches, confusion, memory problems
- Moderate TBI: Extended unconsciousness, cognitive deficits
- Severe TBI: Permanent disability, coma, or death
- Lifetime Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+
Spinal Cord Injuries
- Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
- Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
- Incomplete Injuries: Some nerve function remains
- Complete Injuries: Total loss of sensation and movement
- Lifetime Costs: $1.1 million to $5 million+
Amputations
- Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the scene
- Surgical Amputation: Required due to severe damage
- Ongoing Needs: Prosthetics ($5,000-$50,000 each), rehabilitation, psychological counseling
- Impact: Permanent disability, career limitations, phantom pain
Severe Burns
- Causes: Fuel tank ruptures, hazmat spills, electrical fires
- Degrees:
- First: Superficial (epidermis only)
- Second: Partial thickness (epidermis and dermis)
- Third: Full thickness (requires skin grafts)
- Fourth: Through skin to muscle/bone
- Treatment: Multiple surgeries, skin grafts, long-term rehabilitation
Internal Organ Damage
- Liver lacerations
- Spleen rupture
- Kidney damage
- Lung contusions
- Internal bleeding
- Bowel injuries
Wrongful Death
When trucking accidents claim lives, surviving family members may recover:
- Lost future income and benefits
- Loss of consortium (companionship)
- Mental anguish
- Funeral expenses
- Medical expenses before death
Who Is Liable in Your Moline Trucking Accident?
Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple liable parties:
1. The Truck Driver
Direct negligence such as:
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Distracted driving (cell phone, dispatch communications)
- Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
- Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
- Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
- Traffic law violations
2. The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)
Both vicarious liability and direct negligence:
- Vicarious Liability: Responsible for driver’s actions within scope of employment
- Negligent Hiring: Failed to check driver’s background
- Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
- Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance
- Negligent Maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep
- Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations
3. Cargo Owner/Shipper
- Provided improper loading instructions
- Failed to disclose hazardous cargo
- Required overweight loading
- Pressured carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
4. Cargo Loading Company
- Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
- Unbalanced load distribution
- Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
- Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturer
- Design defects (brake systems, stability control)
- Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
- Failure to warn of known dangers
6. Parts Manufacturer
- Defective brake components
- Defective tires causing blowouts
- Defective steering mechanisms
- Defective lighting components
7. Maintenance Company
- Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
- Failure to identify critical safety issues
- Improper brake adjustments
- Using substandard or wrong parts
8. Freight Broker
- Negligent selection of carrier with poor safety record
- Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
- Failure to check carrier CSA scores
9. Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)
- Negligent entrustment of vehicle
- Failure to maintain owned equipment
- Knowledge of driver’s unfitness
10. Government Entity
- Dangerous road design
- Failure to maintain roads
- Inadequate signage
- Failure to install safety barriers
Our Moline trucking accident lawyers investigate every possible defendant to maximize your compensation.
FMCSA Regulations: The Legal Framework for Your Case
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates every aspect of commercial trucking. Violations of these regulations often prove negligence in trucking accident cases.
Part 390: General Applicability
- Defines who must comply with regulations
- Applies to all interstate commercial motor vehicles
- Includes vehicles over 10,001 lbs, passenger carriers, and hazmat transporters
Part 391: Driver Qualification
Key Requirements:
- Must be at least 21 years old (21 for interstate, 18 for intrastate)
- Must read and speak English sufficiently
- Must be physically qualified per § 391.41
- Must have valid commercial driver’s license (CDL)
- Must complete road test or equivalent
Driver Qualification File Must Include:
- Employment application
- Motor vehicle record
- Road test certificate
- Medical examiner’s certificate
- Annual driving record review
- Previous employer inquiries (3-year history)
- Drug and alcohol test records
Why This Matters: If the trucking company failed to maintain a proper DQ file or hired an unqualified driver, they’re liable for negligent hiring.
Part 392: Driving Rules
Key Prohibitions:
- § 392.3: No driving while ill or fatigued
- § 392.4: No possession or use of Schedule I drugs
- § 392.5: No alcohol use within 4 hours of driving, or while on duty
- § 392.6: No scheduling that requires speeding
- § 392.11: No following too closely
- § 392.82: No hand-held mobile phone use while driving
Why This Matters: Violations of these rules directly prove driver negligence.
Part 393: Vehicle Safety
Key Requirements:
- Cargo Securement (§ 393.100-136): Must withstand 0.8g forward deceleration, 0.5g lateral/acceleration
- Brakes (§ 393.40-55): All wheels must have service brakes, proper adjustment
- Lighting (§ 393.11-26): Headlamps, tail lamps, clearance lamps, reflectors
- Tires (§ 393.75): Minimum tread depth (4/32″ on steer tires, 2/32″ others)
Why This Matters: Equipment failures often cause accidents. Maintenance records prove negligence.
Part 395: Hours of Service (HOS)
Property-Carrying Drivers (Most 18-Wheelers):
- 11-Hour Driving Limit: Max 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
- 14-Hour Duty Window: Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
- 30-Minute Break: Required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
- 60/70-Hour Limit: 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
- 34-Hour Restart: Can reset weekly clock with 34 consecutive hours off
Why This Matters: Fatigue causes 31% of fatal truck crashes. HOS violations prove negligence.
Part 396: Inspection and Maintenance
Key Requirements:
- § 396.3: Systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance
- § 396.11: Driver post-trip inspection report
- § 396.13: Driver pre-trip inspection
- § 396.17: Annual inspection
Why This Matters: Poor maintenance causes brake failures, tire blowouts, and other equipment-related accidents.
The Critical 48-Hour Window: Preserving Evidence in Your Case
In trucking accident cases, evidence 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.
What Evidence Can Disappear?
| Evidence Type | Destruction Risk |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| Drug/Alcohol Tests | Must be conducted within specific windows |
Our 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol
-
Immediate Spoliation Letter
- Sent within 24-48 hours of being retained
- Formal legal notice demanding preservation of all evidence
- Creates legal consequences for evidence destruction
-
ECM/Black Box Download
- Records speed, braking, throttle position
- Proves speeding, delayed braking, mechanical issues
- Can be overwritten quickly
-
ELD Data Preservation
- Proves hours of service violations
- Shows driving time, rest breaks, GPS location
- Critical for fatigue-related accidents
-
Maintenance Records Request
- Brake inspection and adjustment records
- Tire replacement and inflation records
- Annual inspection reports
- Repair work orders
-
Driver Qualification File Review
- Employment application
- Driving record
- Medical certification
- Training records
- Previous accident history
-
Physical Evidence Securing
- The truck and trailer
- Failed components (brakes, tires, etc.)
- Cargo and securement devices
-
Scene Documentation
- Accident scene photographs
- Skid mark analysis
- Road condition assessment
- Weather conditions
Why This Matters for Your Moline Case
Moline’s rural location means evidence can disappear even faster. With limited law enforcement resources and fewer nearby businesses with surveillance cameras, every piece of evidence becomes even more critical. Our Moline trucking accident attorneys move quickly to preserve what’s available before it’s gone.
The Moline Advantage: Local Knowledge That Wins Cases
As Moline trucking accident lawyers, we bring unique local advantages to your case:
We Know Moline’s Trucking Corridors
- US-84: Primary east-west route through Moline
- US-183: Major north-south corridor
- FM-574: Connects to Goldthwaite and other rural areas
- Local distribution routes: Serving agricultural and small businesses
We Understand Local Conditions
- Weather Hazards: Flash flooding, sudden storms, winter ice
- Road Conditions: Rural roads with limited maintenance
- Traffic Patterns: Agricultural vehicles mixing with commercial freight
- Emergency Response: Limited resources in rural areas
We Know the Local Courts
- Mills County Courthouse: Where your case would be filed
- Local Judges: Their preferences and tendencies
- Jury Pool: What Moline jurors expect and value
- Local Experts: Accident reconstructionists, medical professionals
We Understand the Local Economy
- Agricultural Trucking: Seasonal patterns, equipment types
- Local Businesses: Small manufacturers, distributors
- Workforce: Common occupations and wage levels
- Insurance Landscape: Typical coverage amounts
What Your Moline Trucking Accident Case Is Worth
Case values depend on many factors, but trucking cases typically settle for far more than car accidents because:
- Higher Insurance Limits: Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5,000,000 in liability coverage
- More Severe Injuries: Catastrophic injuries justify higher compensation
- Multiple Liable Parties: More defendants means more insurance coverage
- Regulatory Violations: FMCSA violations prove negligence
Typical Settlement Ranges in Texas Trucking Cases
| Injury Type | Settlement Range | Factors Affecting Value |
|---|---|---|
| Soft Tissue (Whiplash) | $15,000 – $60,000 | Treatment duration, pre-existing conditions |
| Herniated Disc (Non-Surgical) | $50,000 – $200,000 | Impact on daily life, pain levels |
| Herniated Disc (With Surgery) | $346,000 – $1,205,000 | Number of surgeries, recovery time |
| Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate) | $1,548,000 – $9,838,000 | Cognitive impairment, long-term care needs |
| Spinal Cord Injury (Paraplegia) | $4,770,000 – $25,880,000 | Level of injury, care needs |
| Spinal Cord Injury (Quadriplegia) | $10,000,000+ | Ventilator dependency, 24/7 care |
| Amputation | $1,945,000 – $8,630,000 | Type of amputation, prosthetic needs |
| Wrongful Death | $1,910,000 – $9,520,000 | Decedent’s earning capacity, dependents |
| Severe Burns | $500,000 – $5,000,000 | Degree of burns, surgeries required |
Recent Texas Trucking Verdicts and Settlements
While every case is unique, these recent Texas cases show what’s possible:
- $730 Million (2021): Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger – Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman
- $150 Million (2022): Werner settlement – Two children killed on I-30
- $37.5 Million (2024): Texas trucking verdict for catastrophic injuries
- $35.5 Million: Family injured in truck accident
- $35 Million (2025): Fort Worth – Largest verdict in Tarrant County
Factors That Increase Your Case Value
- Clear Liability: When the truck driver or company is obviously at fault
- Severe Injuries: Catastrophic injuries justify higher compensation
- Permanent Disability: Lifelong impact on earning capacity
- Multiple Liable Parties: More defendants means more insurance coverage
- Regulatory Violations: FMCSA violations prove negligence
- Egregious Conduct: Willful violations, falsified logs, destroyed evidence
- Solvent Defendants: Large trucking companies with deep pockets
- Strong Evidence: ECM data, dashcam footage, witness statements
The Insurance Battle: What You’re Really Up Against
Trucking companies and their insurers have one goal: to pay you as little as possible. They have teams of adjusters, investigators, and lawyers working against you from day one.
Common Insurance Company Tactics
| Tactic | How They Use It | How We Counter It |
|---|---|---|
| Quick Lowball Offer | Offer settlement before you know extent of injuries | Never accept early offers; wait until treatment complete |
| Recorded Statements | Get you to say things that hurt your case | Never give statements without attorney present |
| “Pre-Existing Condition” Defense | Blame your injuries on prior conditions | Use medical records to show accident caused new injuries |
| “Gap in Treatment” Attack | Claim you weren’t really injured because you missed appointments | Document all treatment; explain gaps with medical records |
| Surveillance | Follow you to catch you doing activities that “prove” you’re not injured | Advise clients on appropriate conduct; expose unfair surveillance |
| “Independent” Medical Exams | Hire doctors to minimize your injuries | Counter with treating physicians and independent experts |
| Delay Tactics | Drag out the process hoping you’ll accept less | File lawsuit to force discovery; set depositions |
| Comparative Fault Claims | Blame you for the accident | Investigate thoroughly; gather evidence disproving fault |
Our Insider Advantage
Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these tactics work. He spent years on the other side, learning how adjusters are trained to minimize claims. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.
“Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years inside the system. He watched adjusters minimize claims. He saw how they train their people to lowball victims. Now he exposes those tactics and uses his insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation.”
The Legal Process: What to Expect in Your Moline Case
1. Free Consultation
- We evaluate your case at no cost
- Explain your legal options
- Answer all your questions
2. Immediate Action
- Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
- Begin evidence preservation
- Notify all potentially liable parties
3. Investigation
- Obtain police report
- Collect witness statements
- Download ECM/ELD data
- Review maintenance records
- Analyze driver qualification file
- Obtain surveillance footage
4. Medical Treatment
- Help you get necessary medical care
- Document all injuries and treatment
- Coordinate with medical providers
5. Demand Letter
- Calculate all damages (medical, lost wages, pain/suffering)
- Prepare comprehensive demand package
- Send to insurance companies
6. Negotiation
- Review settlement offers
- Counter lowball offers
- Prepare for litigation if necessary
7. Litigation (If Needed)
- File lawsuit in Mills County or appropriate venue
- Conduct discovery (depositions, document requests)
- Retain expert witnesses
- Prepare for trial
8. Resolution
- Negotiate settlement
- OR go to trial
- OR appeal if necessary
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Moline Trucking Case
1. 25+ Years of Experience
Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s handled hundreds of trucking cases and recovered millions for Texas families.
2. Federal Court Experience
Ralph is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas – critical for interstate trucking cases that can be filed in federal court.
3. Former Insurance Defense Attorney
Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance companies. He knows their tactics from the inside and uses that knowledge to fight for you.
4. Proven Results
We’ve recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for trucking accident victims, including:
- $5+ Million for logging brain injury
- $3.8+ Million for car accident amputation
- $2+ Million for maritime back injury
- Millions for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases
5. Local Moline Knowledge
We understand Moline’s roads, weather conditions, and legal landscape. This local advantage helps us build stronger cases.
6. Aggressive Representation
We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know we’re willing to go to court – which leads to better settlements.
7. Contingency Fee Basis
You pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation.
8. 24/7 Availability
Trucking accidents don’t wait for business hours. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and start your case.
9. Bilingual Services
Lupe Peña and our staff are fluent in Spanish. We serve Moline’s Hispanic community directly without interpreters.
“Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.”
10. Comprehensive Support
From medical care coordination to emotional support, we’re with you every step of the way.
Client Testimonials: Real Stories from Real Clients
“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
“One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
— Donald Wilcox, Attorney911 Client
“Ralph Manginello is indeed the best attorney I ever had. He cares greatly about his results.”
— AMAZIAH A.T., Attorney911 Client
“Mr. Maginello and his firm are first class. Will fight tooth and nail for you.”
— Ernest Cano, Attorney911 Client
What to Do Right Now
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Moline, Texas, follow these steps immediately:
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out immediately
- Call 911 – Report the accident and get a police report
- Document the Scene – Take photos of all vehicles, damage, road conditions, and injuries
- Get Driver Information – Name, CDL number, trucking company, insurance details
- Collect Witness Information – Names and contact information for all witnesses
- Do NOT Give Statements – Never give recorded statements to insurance companies
- Call Attorney911 Immediately – 1-888-ATTY-911
CRITICAL: Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage may be deleted within days. Evidence disappears fast in trucking cases. Call us NOW to protect your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moline Trucking Accidents
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Moline?
Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly, and your case gets harder to prove as time passes. Contact us immediately to protect your rights.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. You can recover damages as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re 20% at fault, you can recover 80% of your damages.
How much is my Moline trucking accident case worth?
Every case is unique. Factors include:
- Severity of your injuries
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
- Available insurance coverage
Trucking cases typically settle for more than car accidents because:
- Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum)
- Injuries are often more severe
- Multiple parties may be liable
Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?
No. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Never give recorded statements without consulting an attorney first.
What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?
Even if the driver is an owner-operator, both the driver 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 prove the truck driver was fatigued?
Fatigue is proven through:
- ELD data showing hours of service violations
- ECM data showing erratic driving patterns
- Dispatch records showing pressure to meet deadlines
- Driver qualification file showing inadequate rest
- Witness testimony about driver behavior
What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
Many trucking companies carry multiple layers of insurance. We identify all available coverage, including umbrella policies and cargo insurance. Even if the company goes bankrupt, insurance proceeds may still be available.
Can I sue for PTSD after a trucking accident?
Yes. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a compensable injury. Symptoms include flashbacks, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. We work with psychologists to document your PTSD and include it in your claim.
How long will my case 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.
What if I don’t have health insurance?
We can help you get medical treatment through:
- Letters of Protection (LOP) – doctors treat you now and get paid from your settlement
- Medical liens – healthcare providers agree to wait for payment
- Medicaid/Medicare – if you qualify
What’s the difference between economic and non-economic damages?
-
Economic Damages: Tangible losses with dollar values
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Future care costs
-
Non-Economic Damages: Intangible losses
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement
- Loss of consortium
When are punitive damages available?
Punitive damages may be awarded 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:
- Two times economic damages plus non-economic damages (up to $750,000)
- OR $200,000
What if the trucking company offers me a settlement?
Never accept the first offer. Insurance companies start with lowball offers hoping you’ll accept before understanding the full value of your case. Consult with an attorney before accepting any settlement.
Can I still recover if the truck driver was cited for the accident?
Yes. Police citations can help prove liability, but they’re not required. We conduct our own investigation to prove negligence.
What if the trucking company claims I was in their blind spot?
Blind spot accidents are common, but truck drivers have a duty to check their mirrors and ensure lanes are clear before changing lanes. We gather evidence to prove the driver failed to check properly.
How do I prove the trucking company pressured the driver to violate HOS?
We obtain:
- Dispatch records
- Driver logs
- Company policies on scheduling
- Driver testimony
- ELD data showing HOS violations
What if the truck’s maintenance records are missing?
Failure to maintain proper records is itself evidence of negligence. We can prove liability through other means, including:
- Witness testimony
- ECM data showing mechanical issues
- Expert analysis of failed components
- Pattern of similar violations
Can I sue if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident?
Yes. Texas allows wrongful death claims by:
- Surviving spouse
- Children (minor and adult)
- Parents (if no spouse or children)
Damages may include:
- Lost future income
- Loss of companionship
- Mental anguish
- Funeral expenses
- Medical expenses before death
What if the trucking company claims the accident was unavoidable?
We hire accident reconstruction experts to analyze:
- ECM data
- Skid marks
- Vehicle damage
- Road conditions
- Weather conditions
This analysis often proves the accident was preventable.
How do I prove the cargo was improperly secured?
We obtain:
- Cargo securement records
- Loading company procedures
- Photographs of the cargo
- Expert analysis of tiedowns
- Maintenance records for securement equipment
What if the trucking company is based in another state?
Interstate trucking is regulated by federal law. We can sue out-of-state trucking companies in Texas courts. Our federal court experience allows us to handle these cases effectively.
Can I get a rental car while my vehicle is being repaired?
Yes. The trucking company’s insurance should provide a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired or replaced. We help you get this coverage.
What if I was a passenger in the truck?
You can still recover compensation if the truck driver was at fault. We investigate all potentially liable parties, including the trucking company, other drivers, and manufacturers.
How do I pay for medical treatment while my case is pending?
We help you get treatment through:
- Your health insurance
- Letters of Protection (LOP) to medical providers
- Medical liens
- Medicaid/Medicare if you qualify
What if the trucking company claims I have pre-existing conditions?
We work with medical experts to prove:
- The accident caused new injuries
- The accident aggravated pre-existing conditions
- Your condition is worse because of the accident
Can I sue if the truck driver was under the influence?
Yes. Driving under the influence is negligence per se in Texas. We obtain:
- Police report
- Breathalyzer results
- Blood test results
- Drug test results
- Witness testimony
What if the trucking company claims I was speeding?
We gather evidence to prove your speed:
- ECM data from the truck
- Witness testimony
- Accident reconstruction
- Surveillance footage
How do I prove the truck’s brakes failed?
We obtain:
- Maintenance records
- Brake inspection reports
- ECM data showing brake application
- Expert analysis of brake components
- Previous inspection reports
What if the trucking company claims I was distracted?
We gather evidence to prove you were paying attention:
- Witness testimony
- Cell phone records
- Surveillance footage
- Accident reconstruction
Can I sue if the trucking company falsified log books?
Yes. Falsifying log books is a serious violation that proves negligence. We obtain:
- ELD data
- Paper log books
- Dispatch records
- GPS data
- Driver testimony
What if the trucking company claims I didn’t mitigate my damages?
You have a duty to mitigate damages by:
- Seeking medical treatment
- Following doctor’s orders
- Not making injuries worse
We document your compliance with these duties.
How do I prove lost earning capacity?
We work with:
- Vocational experts
- Economists
- Your employer
- Medical experts
To calculate your lost earning capacity based on:
- Your occupation
- Your education
- Your experience
- Your medical restrictions
What if the trucking company claims I’m exaggerating my injuries?
We document your injuries through:
- Medical records
- Medical expert testimony
- Photographs of injuries
- Witness testimony
- Your personal testimony
Can I sue if the trucking company violated FMCSA regulations?
Yes. FMCSA violations often prove negligence. We obtain:
- Inspection reports
- Driver qualification files
- Maintenance records
- ELD data
- Drug test results
What if the trucking company claims I was trespassing?
Trespassing claims are rare in trucking accidents. We investigate:
- Your location at the time of the accident
- Property ownership
- Permission to be on the property
How do I prove the trucking company had a history of violations?
We obtain:
- FMCSA safety records
- Inspection reports
- Previous accident history
- Out-of-service orders
- Driver qualification files
What if the trucking company claims I was contributorily negligent?
Texas follows comparative negligence. As long as you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. We gather evidence to minimize your percentage of fault.
Can I sue if the trucking company claims I was jaywalking?
If you were a pedestrian, we investigate:
- Crosswalk locations
- Traffic signals
- Driver visibility
- Driver speed
What if the trucking company claims I was in a no-parking zone?
We investigate:
- Parking regulations
- Visibility of signs
- Reasonableness of parking location
- Driver’s duty to maintain lookout
How do I prove the trucking company’s negligent hiring?
We obtain:
- Driver qualification file
- Employment application
- Background check
- Driving record
- Previous employer verification
- Drug test results
What if the trucking company claims the accident was an act of God?
We investigate weather conditions and prove:
- The driver should have anticipated the weather
- The driver failed to adjust speed for conditions
- The driver violated FMCSA regulations
Can I sue if the trucking company claims I was in a construction zone?
Yes. Construction zones have special rules for truck drivers. We investigate:
- Construction zone signage
- Speed limits
- Driver’s duty to maintain lookout
- Driver’s duty to follow flaggers
How do I prove the trucking company’s negligent training?
We obtain:
- Training records
- Training curricula
- Company safety policies
- Driver qualification file
- Witness testimony
What if the trucking company claims I was in a school zone?
School zones have special rules for truck drivers. We investigate:
- School zone signage
- Speed limits
- Time of day
- Driver’s duty to maintain lookout
Can I sue if the trucking company claims I was in a residential area?
Yes. Residential areas have special rules for truck drivers. We investigate:
- Speed limits
- Driver’s duty to maintain lookout
- Driver’s duty to yield to pedestrians
How do I prove the trucking company’s negligent supervision?
We obtain:
- Supervision policies
- Driver performance reviews
- Dispatch records
- Hours of service records
- Drug test results
What if the trucking company claims I was in a no-truck zone?
We investigate:
- No-truck zone signage
- Alternative routes
- Reasonableness of the restriction
- Driver’s knowledge of the restriction
Your Moline Trucking Accident Lawyers: Fighting for Justice
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Moline, Texas, you need attorneys who:
✅ Have 25+ years of experience fighting trucking companies
✅ Understand Moline’s unique trucking corridors and conditions
✅ Include a former insurance defense attorney who knows their tactics
✅ Have recovered multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements
✅ Are available 24/7 to start your case immediately
✅ Work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win
Don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing right now. Call Attorney911 today for your free consultation.
Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now.
Hablamos Español.