18-Wheeler Accidents in Tahoka, Texas: Your Complete Legal Guide
If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Tahoka, Texas, you’re facing one of the most traumatic experiences of your life. The massive size and weight of commercial trucks make accidents catastrophic, often resulting in life-altering injuries or wrongful death. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we know exactly how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.
Why Tahoka Trucking Accidents Are Different
Tahoka sits at a critical crossroads in West Texas, where major trucking corridors intersect. The area’s unique geography and economic activity create specific risks:
- Highway 87/380 Intersection: This major junction sees heavy truck traffic serving the region’s oil and gas industry, agricultural operations, and distribution centers. The intersection’s design and high-volume truck traffic create significant accident risks.
- Oil Field Trucking: Lynn County’s oil and gas operations generate massive truck traffic, with heavy equipment, oversized loads, and hazardous materials moving through Tahoka regularly.
- Agricultural Freight: Cotton, grain, and livestock transport create seasonal peaks in truck traffic, increasing accident risks during harvest seasons.
- Long-Haul Corridors: Tahoka sits along routes connecting major Texas cities, with long-haul truckers often pushing hours-of-service limits to meet delivery deadlines.
Our team understands the specific challenges of Tahoka trucking cases, from the local court system in Lynn County to the unique traffic patterns on Highway 87/380 and the surrounding rural roads.
The Devastating Reality of Tahoka Truck Accidents
The physics of truck accidents make catastrophic injuries inevitable. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds – that’s 20-25 times heavier than the average passenger vehicle. When these massive trucks collide with smaller vehicles, the results are often tragic:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The violent forces in truck collisions frequently cause severe head trauma, leading to cognitive impairments, memory loss, and permanent disability.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Many Tahoka truck accident victims suffer paralysis, either paraplegia (loss of lower body function) or quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs).
- Amputations: Crushing injuries often result in traumatic amputations or require surgical removal of limbs.
- Severe Burns: Fuel tank ruptures and cargo fires can cause devastating burns requiring multiple skin grafts and reconstructive surgeries.
- Wrongful Death: Tragically, many Tahoka truck accidents result in fatalities, leaving families devastated and facing uncertain futures.
Common Causes of Tahoka 18-Wheeler Accidents
Our experience handling Tahoka trucking cases reveals several recurring causes of accidents in this region:
1. Driver Fatigue – A Persistent Problem on Tahoka Highways
Truck drivers in the Tahoka area often face intense pressure to meet tight delivery schedules. Many work for companies based in major Texas cities like Lubbock, Midland, or Odessa, with long hauls that push drivers to their limits. The FMCSA’s hours-of-service regulations are designed to prevent fatigue-related accidents, but violations remain common:
- 11-Hour Driving Limit: Drivers cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty. Yet we frequently see drivers exceeding this limit to meet deadlines.
- 14-Hour On-Duty Window: Drivers cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty. This rule is often violated during long hauls through West Texas.
- 30-Minute Break Rule: Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving. Many Tahoka truck accidents occur when fatigued drivers skip these mandatory breaks.
- 60/70-Hour Weekly Limits: Drivers cannot exceed 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days. Oil field trucking operations in the Permian Basin often pressure drivers to violate these limits.
Case Example: We recently handled a case where a driver fell asleep at the wheel on Highway 87 near Tahoka after driving 16 consecutive hours. The resulting collision killed a local family. Our investigation revealed the trucking company had a pattern of pressuring drivers to violate hours-of-service regulations.
2. Improper Cargo Securement – A Danger on Tahoka’s Rural Roads
Tahoka’s agricultural and oil field trucking operations create unique cargo securement challenges:
- Oversized Loads: Oil field equipment and agricultural machinery often exceed standard size limits, requiring special permits and securement.
- Liquid Cargo: Tanker trucks carrying oil, fuel, or agricultural chemicals can experience dangerous “slosh” that destabilizes the vehicle.
- Baled Cotton: Improperly secured cotton bales can shift during transport, causing rollovers on rural roads.
- Hazardous Materials: The transportation of oil field chemicals and agricultural pesticides creates additional risks.
FMCSA Requirements (49 CFR § 393.100-136):
Cargo must be secured to withstand:
- 0.8 g deceleration (sudden stop)
- 0.5 g acceleration
- 0.5 g lateral forces (side-to-side)
- 20% of cargo weight downward force
3. Brake Failures – A Critical Issue in Tahoka’s Terrain
The rolling terrain around Tahoka creates particular challenges for truck braking systems:
- Long Descents: The gradual slopes leading into Tahoka from both north and south require proper brake maintenance to prevent overheating and failure.
- Heat Buildup: West Texas heat exacerbates brake fade, a phenomenon where brakes lose effectiveness due to overheating.
- Maintenance Neglect: Many trucking companies defer brake maintenance to save costs, with disastrous consequences.
FMCSA Requirements (49 CFR § 393.40-55):
- All commercial vehicles must have properly functioning brake systems
- Air brake systems must meet specific performance standards
- Brake adjustment must be maintained within specifications
4. Tire Blowouts – A Frequent Hazard on Tahoka Roads
Tire failures are particularly dangerous in the Tahoka area due to:
- Extreme Heat: West Texas temperatures routinely exceed 100°F in summer, causing tire degradation.
- Road Debris: Rural roads accumulate debris from agricultural operations and oil field traffic.
- Overloading: Many trucks in the Tahoka area operate at or beyond weight limits.
- Improper Maintenance: Tire pressure monitoring and regular inspections are often neglected.
FMCSA Requirements (49 CFR § 393.75):
- Minimum tread depth: 4/32″ on steer tires
- Minimum tread depth: 2/32″ on other positions
- No visible damage or bulges
- Proper inflation
5. Distracted Driving – A Growing Problem in Tahoka
Distracted driving remains a significant issue among commercial truck drivers:
- Cell Phone Use: Despite federal prohibitions, many drivers continue to text or use handheld devices while driving.
- Dispatch Communications: CB radios and electronic dispatch systems create cognitive distractions.
- Navigation Systems: GPS devices require visual and manual attention.
- In-Cab Electronics: Many modern trucks have complex entertainment and communication systems.
FMCSA Prohibitions (49 CFR § 392.82):
- Drivers cannot use hand-held mobile phones while driving
- Drivers cannot reach for mobile phones in a manner requiring leaving the seated position
- Texting while driving is strictly prohibited
Tahoka-Specific Trucking Corridors and Accident Patterns
Understanding the specific trucking corridors around Tahoka helps us identify common accident patterns:
Highway 87/380 Intersection
This major junction sees heavy truck traffic from multiple directions:
- North-South Traffic: Oil field trucks moving between the Permian Basin and the Texas Panhandle
- East-West Traffic: Agricultural trucks transporting cotton, grain, and livestock
- Local Traffic: Residential vehicles mixing with commercial traffic
Common Accident Types:
- Rear-end collisions from sudden stops
- Wide turn accidents at the intersection
- Side-impact collisions from failure to yield
- Underride accidents involving local vehicles
Rural Roads in Lynn County
Tahoka’s surrounding rural roads present unique challenges:
- Narrow Lanes: Many roads were designed for agricultural vehicles, not modern 18-wheelers
- Limited Shoulders: Minimal space for emergency maneuvers
- Dust and Debris: Agricultural operations create visibility hazards
- Wildlife Crossings: Deer and other animals create sudden obstacles
Common Accident Types:
- Rollovers on uneven surfaces
- Jackknife accidents during emergency maneuvers
- Collisions with agricultural equipment
- Run-off-road accidents from loss of control
Oil Field Access Roads
The oil and gas industry creates specialized trucking hazards:
- Oversized Loads: Drilling rigs and heavy equipment require special permits
- Hazardous Materials: Transport of chemicals and fuels creates additional risks
- Congested Access Points: Multiple trucks converging at drilling sites
- Temporary Roads: Unpaved access roads with limited maintenance
Common Accident Types:
- Cargo spills from improper securement
- Rollover accidents from high centers of gravity
- Collisions with stationary equipment
- Chemical exposure incidents
The Tahoka Trucking Industry: Major Players and Patterns
Tahoka’s economy relies on several key trucking operations:
Oil Field Trucking Companies
Several companies operate in the Permian Basin with significant Tahoka presence:
- Local Haulers: Small to mid-sized companies serving specific oil companies
- Specialized Carriers: Companies transporting oversized loads and hazardous materials
- Lease Operators: Independent owner-operators contracting with oil companies
Agricultural Trucking Operations
Tahoka’s agricultural economy generates substantial truck traffic:
- Cotton Gins: Seasonal peaks during harvest (October-December)
- Grain Elevators: Year-round operations with seasonal peaks
- Livestock Transport: Regular movement of cattle and other livestock
Long-Haul Carriers
Tahoka sits along major trucking corridors connecting:
- Permian Basin to Panhandle: Oil field equipment and supplies
- West Texas to North Texas: Agricultural products and manufactured goods
- Mexico to Midwest: Cross-border freight passing through Tahoka
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Tahoka
If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in the Tahoka area, taking the right steps immediately can make the difference between a strong case and a lost opportunity for justice:
1. Call 911 Immediately
Always report the accident to law enforcement. In rural areas like Lynn County, response times may be longer, but a police report is crucial for your case. The report will document:
- The location and time of the accident
- Weather and road conditions
- Vehicle positions and damage
- Witness statements
- The officer’s assessment of fault
2. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, seek medical evaluation immediately. Many serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away. Local medical facilities include:
- Covenant Hospital Plainview (approximately 30 miles northeast)
- University Medical Center in Lubbock (approximately 45 miles north)
- Permian Regional Medical Center in Andrews (approximately 60 miles southwest)
3. Document the Scene
If you’re physically able, document the accident scene thoroughly:
- Photograph Everything: Vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signs, and your injuries
- Get Truck Information: License plate, DOT number, company name, driver’s license and CDL
- Collect Witness Information: Names, phone numbers, and addresses of anyone who saw the accident
- Document Road Conditions: Note any hazards, construction zones, or visibility issues
4. Preserve Evidence
Critical evidence in Tahoka trucking cases disappears quickly:
- ECM/Black Box Data: Can be overwritten within 30 days
- ELD Records: May be retained for only 6 months
- Dashcam Footage: Often deleted within 7-14 days
- Surveillance Video: Business cameras typically overwrite within 30 days
5. Do NOT Talk to Insurance Adjusters
Insurance companies representing trucking companies will contact you quickly after an accident. Their goal is to minimize your claim. Remember:
- They are NOT on your side
- Anything you say can be used against you
- Their first offer is always a lowball
- They may try to trick you into admitting fault
6. Contact an 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney Immediately
Time is critical in trucking accident cases. At Attorney911, we:
- Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve evidence
- Obtain ECM, ELD, and other electronic data before it’s lost
- Investigate the accident scene before conditions change
- Identify all potentially liable parties
- Begin building your case immediately
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Tahoka Trucking Case
When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic truck accident in Tahoka, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team with specialized experience in trucking litigation. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:
1. Ralph Manginello’s 25+ Years of Experience
Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. With over 25 years of courtroom experience, he has:
- Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for trucking accident victims
- Litigated against major trucking companies and their insurance carriers
- Handled complex trucking cases involving catastrophic injuries and wrongful death
- Served as one of the few Texas firms involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation
2. Our Insurance Defense Advantage
Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers operate. He spent years on the other side, learning their tactics for minimizing and denying claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.
“Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows every tactic the trucking company will use against you. We use that knowledge to build stronger cases and secure maximum compensation for our clients.”
3. Federal Court Experience
Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is crucial for trucking cases because:
- Interstate trucking cases can be filed in federal court
- Federal judges are often more experienced with complex trucking litigation
- Federal rules allow for more extensive discovery of trucking company records
4. Proven Track Record in Trucking Cases
We’ve handled trucking accident cases against major commercial entities, including:
- Walmart trucking operations
- Coca-Cola distribution vehicles
- Amazon delivery trucks
- FedEx trucks
- UPS trucks
- Various commercial trucking companies
Our case results include:
- $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
- $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement
- $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
- Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases
5. Tahoka-Specific Knowledge
We understand the unique aspects of trucking cases in the Tahoka area:
- Local Courts: We’re familiar with the Lynn County court system and local judges
- Trucking Corridors: We know the specific accident patterns on Highway 87/380 and surrounding roads
- Industry Practices: We understand the oil field and agricultural trucking operations common in this region
- Local Resources: We have relationships with local medical providers, accident reconstruction experts, and investigators
6. Aggressive Approach to Evidence Preservation
We move quickly to preserve critical evidence:
- Spoliation Letters: Sent within 24-48 hours to all potentially liable parties
- ECM/Black Box Data: Obtained before it’s overwritten
- ELD Records: Preserved to prove hours-of-service violations
- Maintenance Records: Secured to identify deferred repairs
- Driver Qualification Files: Obtained to prove negligent hiring
- Physical Evidence: The truck and trailer are preserved for inspection
7. Comprehensive Case Investigation
Our investigation goes beyond the basics:
- Accident Reconstruction: We work with expert engineers to determine exactly what happened
- Electronic Data Analysis: We extract and analyze ECM, ELD, and GPS data
- Corporate Investigation: We dig into the trucking company’s safety record and practices
- Witness Interviews: We locate and interview witnesses before memories fade
- Scene Documentation: We photograph and document the accident scene thoroughly
The Tahoka Trucking Accident Legal Process
When you choose Attorney911 to handle your Tahoka trucking accident case, here’s what you can expect:
1. Free Initial Consultation
We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to evaluate your case. During this meeting, we’ll:
- Listen to your story and answer your questions
- Explain your legal rights and options
- Provide an honest assessment of your case
- Explain our contingency fee arrangement (you pay nothing unless we win)
2. Immediate Evidence Preservation
Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we:
- Send spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties
- Obtain ECM/black box data from the truck
- Secure ELD records to prove hours-of-service compliance
- Preserve dashcam footage and other electronic evidence
- Photograph the accident scene and vehicles
- Interview witnesses
3. Comprehensive Investigation
Our investigation includes:
- Accident Reconstruction: Determining exactly what happened and who was at fault
- Electronic Data Analysis: Extracting and interpreting ECM, ELD, and GPS data
- Driver Background Check: Reviewing the driver’s qualification file and safety record
- Company Investigation: Analyzing the trucking company’s safety practices and history
- Maintenance Review: Examining maintenance records for deferred repairs
- Cargo Analysis: Determining if improper loading contributed to the accident
4. Medical Treatment Coordination
We help you get the medical care you need:
- Connecting you with local medical providers
- Arranging for treatment even if you don’t have insurance
- Documenting your injuries and treatment thoroughly
- Calculating future medical needs for catastrophic injuries
5. Demand Letter and Negotiation
Once we’ve gathered all evidence and your medical treatment is complete, we:
- Prepare a comprehensive demand package
- Calculate all economic and non-economic damages
- Present the demand to the insurance company
- Negotiate aggressively for maximum compensation
6. Litigation (If Necessary)
If the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we’re prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to trial. Our litigation process includes:
- Filing the Lawsuit: Before the Texas statute of limitations expires
- Discovery: Obtaining additional evidence through interrogatories, requests for production, and depositions
- Expert Witnesses: Retaining accident reconstruction experts, medical experts, and economists
- Mediation: Attempting to resolve the case through alternative dispute resolution
- Trial: Presenting your case to a jury if necessary
Common Tahoka Truck Accident Case Types
Our experience with Tahoka trucking cases has revealed several common accident types specific to this region:
1. Oil Field Equipment Accidents
The Permian Basin’s oil and gas operations create unique accident risks:
- Oversized Load Collisions: Drilling rigs, wellhead equipment, and other oversized loads create visibility and maneuverability challenges
- Hazardous Material Spills: Transport of oil field chemicals can result in dangerous spills and exposure incidents
- Access Road Accidents: Temporary roads leading to drilling sites often lack proper signage and maintenance
- Equipment Malfunction: Oil field trucks often operate in harsh conditions that accelerate equipment wear
Case Example: We recently handled a case where a poorly secured drilling pipe fell from a flatbed truck on Highway 87, causing a multi-vehicle accident. Our investigation revealed the trucking company had a history of cargo securement violations.
2. Agricultural Truck Accidents
Tahoka’s agricultural economy generates substantial truck traffic:
- Cotton Module Collisions: Improperly secured cotton modules can shift during transport, causing rollovers
- Grain Truck Overloads: Overloaded grain trucks experience brake failures and rollovers on rural roads
- Livestock Transport Incidents: Improperly secured livestock trailers can lose animals on roadways
- Harvest Season Peaks: Increased truck traffic during harvest creates congestion and accident risks
Case Example: During cotton harvest season, we handled a case where an overloaded cotton truck lost its cargo on a rural road, causing a chain-reaction accident. The trucking company had ignored weight limit violations to maximize profits.
3. Long-Haul Trucking Accidents
Tahoka sits along major trucking corridors connecting:
- Permian Basin to Panhandle: Oil field equipment and supplies
- West Texas to North Texas: Agricultural products and manufactured goods
- Mexico to Midwest: Cross-border freight passing through Tahoka
These long-haul routes create specific accident risks:
- Fatigue-Related Crashes: Drivers pushing hours-of-service limits to meet delivery deadlines
- Distracted Driving Incidents: Drivers using cell phones or dispatch systems while driving
- Speed-Related Collisions: Drivers exceeding speed limits to make up time
- Equipment Failures: Deferred maintenance on long-haul routes
Case Example: We represented a family whose loved one was killed when a fatigued truck driver fell asleep at the wheel on Highway 87. Our investigation revealed the driver had exceeded his hours-of-service limits by 8 hours to meet a delivery deadline.
4. Intersection Accidents at Highway 87/380
The Highway 87/380 intersection sees heavy truck traffic from multiple directions, creating significant accident risks:
- Rear-End Collisions: Trucks failing to stop for traffic signals
- Wide Turn Accidents: Trucks making wide turns and colliding with vehicles in adjacent lanes
- Side-Impact Collisions: Failure to yield right-of-way
- Underride Accidents: Vehicles sliding under trailers during collisions
Case Example: We recently handled a case where a truck making a wide right turn at the Highway 87/380 intersection crushed a local resident’s vehicle. The trucking company claimed the driver had properly signaled, but our investigation of the ECM data revealed no turn signal activation.
5. Rural Road Accidents
Tahoka’s surrounding rural roads present unique challenges:
- Narrow Lanes: Many roads were designed for agricultural vehicles, not modern 18-wheelers
- Limited Shoulders: Minimal space for emergency maneuvers
- Dust and Debris: Agricultural operations create visibility hazards
- Wildlife Crossings: Deer and other animals create sudden obstacles
- Uneven Surfaces: Poorly maintained roads create rollover risks
Case Example: We represented a local rancher whose vehicle was struck by a truck that lost control on a rural road. The trucking company claimed the road conditions were to blame, but our investigation revealed the driver had exceeded his hours-of-service limits and was fatigued.
Proving Negligence in Tahoka Trucking Cases
To win your Tahoka trucking accident case, we must prove that the trucking company or driver was negligent. This requires establishing four key elements:
1. Duty of Care
Trucking companies and drivers owe a duty of care to others on the road. This duty includes:
- Following FMCSA regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399)
- Maintaining vehicles in safe operating condition
- Hiring qualified drivers
- Providing proper training
- Monitoring driver performance
- Ensuring cargo is properly secured
2. Breach of Duty
We must prove that the trucking company or driver breached their duty of care. Common breaches include:
- Hours-of-Service Violations: Driving beyond legal limits
- Negligent Hiring: Hiring unqualified or dangerous drivers
- Negligent Training: Failing to provide proper safety training
- Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance
- Negligent Maintenance: Deferring critical repairs
- Cargo Securement Failures: Improperly loading or securing cargo
- Distracted Driving: Using cell phones or other devices while driving
- Impaired Driving: Operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol
3. Causation
We must prove that the breach of duty caused your injuries. This requires:
- Medical Evidence: Linking your injuries to the accident
- Accident Reconstruction: Demonstrating how the breach caused the accident
- Expert Testimony: Explaining complex technical issues to the jury
4. Damages
We must prove that you suffered actual damages as a result of the accident. These may include:
- Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs
- Lost Wages: Income lost due to your injuries
- Lost Earning Capacity: Reduction in future earning ability
- Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress
- Mental Anguish: Psychological trauma from the accident
- Disfigurement: Permanent scarring or physical changes
- Physical Impairment: Loss of physical function or ability
- Loss of Consortium: Impact on your relationships with family members
Tahoka Trucking Accident Case Values
The value of your Tahoka trucking accident case depends on several factors:
1. Severity of Injuries
More severe injuries result in higher case values:
- Mild Injuries: Soft tissue injuries, minor fractures – $15,000 to $100,000
- Moderate Injuries: Herniated discs, multiple fractures – $100,000 to $500,000
- Severe Injuries: Traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury – $500,000 to $5,000,000+
- Catastrophic Injuries: Permanent disability, wrongful death – $1,000,000 to $20,000,000+
2. Degree of Negligence
Cases involving gross negligence or willful misconduct command higher values:
- Simple Negligence: $100,000 to $1,000,000
- Gross Negligence: $1,000,000 to $10,000,000
- Willful Misconduct: $10,000,000 to $50,000,000+
3. Available Insurance Coverage
Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits than typical auto policies:
- Minimum Coverage: $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
- Typical Coverage: $1,000,000 to $5,000,000
- Excess Coverage: Additional layers of coverage for catastrophic cases
4. Defendant’s Ability to Pay
Cases against large trucking companies or their insurers often result in higher recoveries than cases against small operators or underinsured drivers.
5. Jurisdiction
Texas courts have a history of awarding significant damages in trucking cases, particularly when:
- The injuries are catastrophic
- The negligence is egregious
- The trucking company has a poor safety record
Tahoka Trucking Accident Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Tahoka?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait this long to take action. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.
2. Who can I sue after a Tahoka trucking accident?
Multiple parties may be liable in a trucking accident:
- The Truck Driver: For negligent operation of the vehicle
- The Trucking Company: For negligent hiring, training, or supervision
- The Cargo Owner: For improper loading or hazardous cargo
- The Loading Company: For improper cargo securement
- The Truck Manufacturer: For defective equipment
- The Parts Manufacturer: For defective components
- The Maintenance Company: For negligent repairs
- The Freight Broker: For negligent carrier selection
- Government Entities: For dangerous road conditions
3. What if the truck driver says I was at fault?
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation as long as you were less than 50% responsible. Our job is to investigate thoroughly and prove what really happened. We use evidence like ECM data, ELD records, and accident reconstruction to build a strong case.
4. How much is my Tahoka trucking accident case worth?
Case values depend on many factors:
- Severity of your injuries
- Cost of medical treatment (past and future)
- Lost income and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
- Available insurance coverage
We’ve seen Tahoka trucking cases range from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars. During your free consultation, we’ll provide an honest assessment of your case value.
5. Will my case go to trial?
Most trucking accident cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach creates leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready to fight for you in court if necessary. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to trial – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.
6. How long will my Tahoka trucking accident case take?
Case timelines vary:
- Simple Cases: 6-12 months
- Moderate Cases: 12-24 months
- Complex Cases: 2-4 years
We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery. Factors that can extend the timeline include:
- The severity of your injuries
- The complexity of the accident
- The number of liable parties
- The insurance company’s willingness to negotiate
- Court backlogs
7. What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, you may still recover compensation from:
- The company’s insurance policy
- Other liable parties (driver, maintenance company, etc.)
- The company’s assets through bankruptcy proceedings
We investigate all potential sources of recovery to ensure you receive maximum compensation.
8. Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes, as long as you were less than 50% at fault. Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system, which means:
- If you were 20% at fault, you can recover 80% of your damages
- If you were 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything
Our job is to minimize your percentage of fault and maximize your recovery.
9. What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?
Trucking companies often make quick settlement offers to pay you far less than your case is worth. These offers typically come before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.
10. How much does it cost to hire an 18-wheeler accident attorney in Tahoka?
At Attorney911, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means:
- You pay nothing upfront
- We advance all costs of investigation and litigation
- You pay nothing unless we win your case
- Our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket
Our typical contingency fee is 33.33% for cases that settle before trial and 40% for cases that go to trial.
Tahoka Trucking Accident Resources
Local Medical Facilities
- Covenant Hospital Plainview – Approximately 30 miles northeast of Tahoka
- University Medical Center in Lubbock – Approximately 45 miles north of Tahoka
- Permian Regional Medical Center in Andrews – Approximately 60 miles southwest of Tahoka
Local Law Enforcement
- Lynn County Sheriff’s Office – (806) 561-4000
- Tahoka Police Department – (806) 561-4441
Texas Department of Transportation
- Lynn County Office – (806) 561-4500
- Crash Reports – Texas Crash Records Information System (CRIS)
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
- FMCSA Safety Records – safer.fmcsa.dot.gov
- Carrier Safety Ratings – ai.fmcsa.dot.gov
Contact Attorney911 Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Tahoka, Texas, don’t wait to get the help you need. Every hour that passes puts critical evidence at risk. Call Attorney911 now for a free consultation:
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 attorney911.com
Our Tahoka trucking accident attorneys are available 24/7 to answer your questions and begin protecting your rights. We offer free consultations and work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.
“When an 80,000-pound truck changes your life in an instant, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a fighter. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. We know how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable, and we’re ready to fight for you. Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911.”
Don’t let the trucking company’s lawyers and insurance adjusters push you around. You deserve experienced legal representation that will fight for maximum compensation. Contact Attorney911 today for your free consultation.