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

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident on Jefferson’s highways, you’re facing one of the most complex and high-stakes legal challenges imaginable. The massive size difference between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles means accidents often result in catastrophic injuries or wrongful death. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we understand the unique challenges Jefferson residents face when dealing with these devastating crashes.

Why Jefferson’s Trucking Corridors Are Dangerous

Jefferson sits at a critical juncture in East Texas, where several major highways converge, creating a perfect storm for trucking accidents:

• US Highway 59 (Future I-69): This busy north-south corridor connects Houston to Shreveport and sees heavy truck traffic carrying goods between the Gulf Coast and the Midwest. The stretch through Jefferson is particularly hazardous due to the mix of local traffic and long-haul trucks.

• State Highway 43: Running through downtown Jefferson, this route sees significant truck traffic from local industries and serves as a connector to nearby distribution centers.

• Farm-to-Market Roads: Jefferson’s rural setting means trucks frequently travel on two-lane roads not designed for heavy commercial traffic, increasing the risk of head-on collisions and run-off-road accidents.

• Local Industrial Traffic: Jefferson’s economy includes manufacturing, agriculture, and oilfield support services, all of which generate significant truck traffic on local roads.

The combination of high-speed interstate traffic, rural roads, and local industrial activity creates dangerous conditions where trucking accidents are all too common.

Common Types of Trucking Accidents in Jefferson

Jackknife Accidents

The wet climate and occasional icy conditions in Jefferson make jackknife accidents particularly common. When a truck’s trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, it can sweep across multiple lanes of traffic, causing devastating multi-vehicle pileups. These accidents often occur when drivers brake suddenly on wet roads or when empty trailers (which are more prone to swinging) are not properly secured.

Underride Collisions

Jefferson’s mix of older vehicles and modern commercial trucks creates a dangerous situation where smaller cars can slide underneath trailers during collisions. These accidents are often fatal because the trailer shears off the top of the passenger vehicle. Despite federal regulations requiring rear underride guards, many trucks still lack adequate protection, and there are no federal requirements for side underride guards.

Rear-End Collisions

The long stopping distances required for 18-wheelers (up to 525 feet at highway speeds) make rear-end collisions particularly common in Jefferson. When trucks fail to stop in time, the resulting impact is devastating due to the massive weight disparity. These accidents frequently occur on US 59 where traffic patterns change quickly.

Wide Turn Accidents

Jefferson’s historic downtown area with its narrow streets creates dangerous conditions for truck turns. When trucks swing wide to make right turns, they often cut off traffic in adjacent lanes. Pedestrians and cyclists are particularly vulnerable to these “squeeze play” accidents in Jefferson’s downtown area.

Fatigue-Related Crashes

The long-haul nature of much of the trucking through Jefferson means fatigue is a major factor. Drivers pushing beyond their legal hours of service limits to meet delivery deadlines often fall asleep at the wheel. The quiet, rural stretches of US 59 are particularly dangerous for fatigued drivers.

Why Trucking Accidents in Jefferson Are Different

Trucking accidents in Jefferson present unique challenges compared to other parts of Texas:

1. Rural Emergency Response: Jefferson’s rural location means longer response times for emergency services. When accidents occur on remote stretches of US 59 or rural roads, it can take longer for medical help to arrive, potentially worsening injuries.

2. Local Industry Knowledge: Jefferson’s economy includes unique industries that generate specialized truck traffic. Understanding these local factors is crucial for building strong cases.

3. Court System Familiarity: Cases in Jefferson may be heard in the Marion County courthouse. Our attorneys know the local court system, judges, and procedures, giving us an advantage in your case.

4. Weather Conditions: Jefferson’s climate creates unique hazards for truck drivers. Heavy rains, occasional ice storms, and dense fog all contribute to accident risks that require specialized expertise to investigate.

5. Insurance Company Tactics: Insurance adjusters know that Jefferson juries can be sympathetic to local accident victims. They often push for quick, lowball settlements before victims understand the full extent of their injuries.

Immediate Steps After a Trucking Accident in Jefferson

If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Jefferson, time is critical. Evidence disappears quickly, and trucking companies have rapid-response teams working to protect their interests. Here’s what to do:

1. Call 911 Immediately: Report the accident and request medical assistance. Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out at the hospital – adrenaline masks pain and internal injuries may not be immediately apparent.

2. Document the Scene: If you’re able, take photos and videos of:

   • All vehicles involved (including license plates)
   • Damage to your vehicle and the truck
   • Road conditions and weather
   • Skid marks and debris patterns
   • Injuries (yours and others)
   • Traffic signs and signals
   • The truck’s DOT number and company information

3. Gather Witness Information: Get names and contact information from any witnesses. Independent witness testimony can be crucial in proving what happened.

4. Get the Truck Driver’s Information:

   • Name and contact information
   • Commercial driver’s license (CDL) number
   • Trucking company name and contact information
   • Insurance information
   • DOT number (usually on the truck door)

5. Seek Medical Attention: Go to the hospital or see your doctor as soon as possible. Tell them you were in a truck accident. Follow all treatment recommendations. Delaying medical care gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

6. Don’t Give Statements: Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company without consulting an attorney first. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize claims.

7. Call Attorney911 Immediately: The sooner we get involved, the better we can protect your rights. We’ll send preservation letters to ensure critical evidence isn’t destroyed.

The Evidence We Preserve in Jefferson Trucking Cases

Trucking companies begin protecting their interests immediately after an accident. Critical evidence can disappear within days or even hours. At Attorney911, we act fast to preserve:

Electronic Data

• ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, throttle position, and other critical data in the moments before a crash. This data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days.
• ELD (Electronic Logging Device) Records: Proves hours of service compliance and driver fatigue. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention, but we demand preservation immediately.
• GPS and Telematics Data: Shows the truck’s location, speed, and route history.
• Dashcam Footage: Video evidence of the accident and driver behavior. Often deleted within days if not preserved.
• Cell Phone Records: Proves distracted driving if the driver was texting or using a phone.

Driver Records

• Driver Qualification File: Contains employment application, background checks, driving history, and medical certification. Missing files prove negligent hiring.
• Hours of Service Records: Shows whether the driver was fatigued and violating federal regulations.
• Drug and Alcohol Test Results: Required after accidents – failure to test or positive results prove negligence.
• Training Records: Demonstrates whether the driver received proper safety training.

Vehicle Records

• Maintenance Records: Shows whether the truck was properly maintained. Poor maintenance is a leading cause of accidents.
• Inspection Reports: Includes pre-trip, post-trip, and annual inspections. Missing reports prove negligence.
• Tire Records: Shows age, tread depth, and replacement history. Tire failures cause many accidents.
• Brake Inspection Records: Brake failures are a factor in 29% of truck accidents.

Company Records

• Dispatch Records: Shows whether the company pressured the driver to meet unrealistic deadlines.
• Safety Policies: Demonstrates whether the company had proper safety procedures in place.
• Previous Accident History: Shows patterns of negligence that can support punitive damages.
• CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) Scores: Public record of the company’s safety violations.

Who’s Really Responsible for Your Injuries?

In Jefferson trucking accidents, multiple parties may share responsibility. We investigate all potentially liable parties to maximize your recovery:

1. The Truck Driver: For direct negligence like speeding, distraction, fatigue, or impairment.

2. The Trucking Company: For vicarious liability (responsibility for their employee’s actions) and direct negligence like:

   • Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified drivers)
   • Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
   • Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
   • Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)
   • Negligent scheduling (pressuring drivers to violate HOS rules)

3. The Cargo Owner/Shipper: For improper loading instructions, failure to disclose hazardous cargo, or requiring overweight loads.

4. The Loading Company: For improper cargo securement that causes load shifts or spills.

5. The Truck Manufacturer: For defective vehicles or components (brake failures, stability control issues).

6. The Parts Manufacturer: For defective tires, brakes, or other components that failed.

7. The Maintenance Company: For negligent repairs that failed to fix known problems.

8. The Freight Broker: For negligent selection of unsafe carriers.

9. The Truck Owner (if different from carrier): For negligent entrustment of the vehicle.

10. Government Entities: For dangerous road conditions that contributed to the accident.

Common FMCSA Violations in Jefferson Trucking Accidents

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations exist to keep our roads safe. When trucking companies violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that lead to accidents. We frequently find these violations in Jefferson trucking cases:

Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395)

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Drivers may not 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: Required after 8 cumulative hours of driving.
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: Drivers cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days.
• 34-Hour Restart: Can reset weekly clock with 34 consecutive hours off duty.

Fatigue is a factor in approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. Hours of service violations are among the most common – and most dangerous – FMCSA violations.

Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391)

• Unqualified Drivers: Operating without a valid CDL or medical certification.
• Incomplete Driver Qualification Files: Missing employment applications, background checks, or training records.
• Hiring Drivers with Poor Safety Records: Employing drivers with histories of accidents or violations.
• Failure to Conduct Annual Reviews: Not reviewing drivers’ records annually as required.

Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396)

• Brake System Deficiencies: Worn brakes, improper adjustment, or system failures.
• Tire Violations: Worn tread, improper inflation, or mismatched tires.
• Lighting Violations: Non-functioning headlights, taillights, or reflectors.
• Failure to Conduct Inspections: Missing pre-trip, post-trip, or annual inspections.
• Deferred Maintenance: Ignoring known problems to save costs.

Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR Part 393)

• Inadequate Tiedowns: Not enough tiedowns or using worn/weak tiedowns.
• Improper Load Distribution: Uneven weight distribution that affects vehicle stability.
• Failure to Use Blocking/Bracing: Not securing cargo to prevent movement.
• Overweight Loads: Exceeding weight limits that affect stopping distance and stability.

Drug and Alcohol Violations (49 CFR Part 382)

• Failed Drug Tests: Operating under the influence of controlled substances.
• Failed Alcohol Tests: Operating with BAC of .04 or higher.
• Failure to Test: Not conducting required post-accident testing.
• Using Prohibited Substances: Operating while using Schedule I substances.

Catastrophic Injuries from Jefferson Trucking Accidents

The massive size and weight of 18-wheelers (up to 80,000 pounds) compared to passenger vehicles (typically 3,500-4,000 pounds) means trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. At Attorney911, we’ve seen firsthand how these injuries change lives forever.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when the brain is violently shaken or struck against the skull. In trucking accidents, this often happens from:

• Striking the steering wheel, dashboard, or window
• Being struck by flying debris
• The violent motion of the accident itself

Symptoms may include:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory loss and confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes and depression
• Sleep disturbances
• Speech and language problems
• Sensory issues (vision, hearing, taste)
• Loss of consciousness

Lifetime care costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Spinal cord damage often results in permanent paralysis. The level of injury determines the extent of paralysis:

• Cervical (Neck) Injuries (C1-C8): Can result in quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs). Higher injuries (C1-C4) may require ventilators for breathing.
• Thoracic (Upper Back) Injuries (T1-T12): Typically result in paraplegia (loss of function in the legs and lower body).
• Lumbar (Lower Back) Injuries (L1-L5): May affect the legs and hips but preserve upper body function.
• Sacral Injuries (S1-S5): May affect bowel, bladder, and sexual function.

Lifetime care costs:

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

Amputations

Amputations occur when limbs are severed in the accident or when severe damage requires surgical removal. Common in trucking accidents due to:

• Crushing forces from the impact
• Entrapment in wreckage requiring amputation for extraction
• Severe burns requiring surgical removal
• Infections from open wounds

Ongoing needs include:

• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000+ each)
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Occupational therapy for daily living skills
• Psychological counseling
• Home modifications

Severe Burns

Burns occur from:

• Fuel tank ruptures and fires
• Hazardous material spills and ignition
• Electrical fires from damaged wiring
• Friction burns from road contact
• Chemical burns from hazmat exposure

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, may require amputation)

Internal Organ Damage

Internal injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening:

• Liver Laceration/Rupture: Can cause massive internal bleeding
• Spleen Damage: Often requires removal, affects immune function
• Kidney Damage: May require dialysis or transplant
• Lung Contusion/Collapse: Can cause respiratory failure
• Internal Bleeding: Life-threatening if not treated immediately
• Bowel/Intestinal Damage: Can cause sepsis if not treated

Wrongful Death Claims in Jefferson

When a trucking accident takes a loved one’s life, the emotional toll is devastating. Texas law allows surviving family members to pursue wrongful death claims to recover compensation for their loss.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas?

• Surviving spouse
• Children (including adult children)
• Parents (if there is no surviving spouse or children)
• The estate representative (for survival actions)

Types of Wrongful Death Damages

1. Economic Damages:

   • Lost future income and benefits
   • Funeral and burial expenses
   • Medical expenses before death

2. Non-Economic Damages:

   • Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
   • Mental anguish and emotional suffering
   • Loss of inheritance

3. Punitive Damages:

   • Available in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct

Texas Statute of Limitations

You have 2 years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Texas. However, you should contact an attorney immediately – evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases.

How Much Is Your Jefferson Trucking Accident Case Worth?

Case values depend on many factors, including:

1. Severity of Injuries: More severe injuries result in higher case values due to increased medical expenses and greater impact on quality of life.

2. Medical Expenses: Both past and future medical costs are recoverable. This includes:

   • Emergency treatment
   • Hospitalization
   • Surgery
   • Rehabilitation
   • Physical therapy
   • Medications
   • Medical equipment
   • Home modifications
   • Long-term care

3. Lost Income: Compensation for:

   • Wages lost during recovery
   • Reduced earning capacity if you can’t return to your previous job
   • Lost benefits (health insurance, retirement contributions)

4. Pain and Suffering: Compensation for:

   • Physical pain from injuries
   • Emotional distress
   • Loss of enjoyment of life
   • Disfigurement
   • Permanent disability

5. Degree of Negligence: More egregious negligence (like falsifying log books or knowingly operating unsafe vehicles) can result in higher awards, including punitive damages.

6. Insurance Coverage: Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits than typical drivers:

   • Minimum $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
   • $1,000,000 for oil/petroleum or large equipment
   • $5,000,000 for hazardous materials or passengers

Recent Trucking Verdicts and Settlements in Texas

While every case is unique, recent verdicts demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

• $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
• $35.5 Million: Family injured in truck accident
• $35 Million (2025): Fort Worth, Texas – Largest verdict in Tarrant County history

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Jefferson Trucking Accident Case?

When you’re facing the aftermath of a devastating trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team with the experience, resources, and determination to take on the trucking industry. Here’s why Attorney911 is the right choice for Jefferson residents:

1. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998. He has:

• Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts
• Litigated against major trucking companies (Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, UPS)
• Been involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation against multinational corporations
• Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas

2. Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes Lupe Peña, an associate attorney who previously worked at a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims because he used to do it. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for victims.

“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.”

3. Immediate Evidence Preservation

We act fast to protect critical evidence before it disappears:

• Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained
• Demand preservation of ECM/black box data, ELD records, and dashcam footage
• Deploy accident reconstruction experts to the scene when necessary
• Obtain police reports and witness statements before memories fade

4. Federal Court Experience

Trucking cases often involve federal regulations and may be filed in federal court. We have:

• Admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Experience handling complex, multi-party litigation
• The resources to take on large trucking companies

5. Bilingual Services for Jefferson’s Hispanic Community

Jefferson has a significant Hispanic population, many of whom work in the trucking industry or as laborers. Our team includes:

• Lupe Peña: Fluent in Spanish, providing direct representation without interpreters
• Zulema: Bilingual staff member praised in client reviews for her kindness and translation services

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

6. Local Knowledge of Jefferson and East Texas

We understand Jefferson’s unique challenges:

• The local court system and judges
• The trucking corridors and accident hotspots
• The local industries that generate truck traffic
• The rural emergency response limitations
• The weather conditions that affect driving

7. Contingency Fee Representation

We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. This means:

• No upfront costs
• No hourly fees
• No risk to you
• We advance all case expenses
• You only pay when we recover compensation for you

8. Comprehensive Client Care

We treat our clients like family. Our clients consistently praise:

• Personal attention: “They treated me like FAMILY, not just another case number” – Chad Harris
• Communication: “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer” – Dame Haskett
• Compassion: “When I felt I had no hope or direction, Leonor reached out to me… She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.” – Stephanie Hernandez
• Results: “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” – Glenda Walker

What to Expect When You Work With Attorney911

Step 1: Free Consultation

Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll:

• Listen to your story
• Answer your questions
• Explain your legal options
• Help you understand what to expect

Step 2: Immediate Case Evaluation

If we take your case, we’ll begin working immediately:

• Send preservation letters to all potentially liable parties
• Obtain police reports and accident scene photos
• Begin gathering medical records
• Identify all available insurance coverage

Step 3: Comprehensive Investigation

We’ll build your case by:

• Obtaining and analyzing ECM/black box data
• Reviewing ELD records for hours of service violations
• Examining driver qualification files for negligent hiring
• Inspecting maintenance records for deferred repairs
• Analyzing cargo securement documentation
• Interviewing witnesses
• Consulting with accident reconstruction experts

Step 4: Medical Care Coordination

We’ll help you get the medical care you need:

• Connect you with trusted medical providers
• Help arrange treatment even if you don’t have insurance
• Ensure your injuries are properly documented

Step 5: Demand and Negotiation

We’ll calculate the full value of your case and:

• Send a comprehensive demand letter to the insurance company
• Negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement
• Reject lowball offers
• Prepare for trial if necessary

Step 6: Litigation (If Necessary)

If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’re prepared to go to trial:

• File a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires
• Conduct aggressive discovery to uncover all evidence
• Take depositions of the truck driver, company representatives, and experts
• Present your case to a jury

Step 7: Resolution

We’ll resolve your case through:

• Settlement negotiations
• Mediation
• Arbitration
• Trial verdict

Frequently Asked Questions About Jefferson Trucking Accidents

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

1. Call 911 and report the accident
2. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
3. Document the scene with photos and videos
4. Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
5. Collect witness contact information
6. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
7. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately

How quickly should I contact an attorney after a trucking accident?

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

Who can I sue after a trucking accident in Jefferson?

Multiple parties may be liable:

• 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)

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 as long as you were not more than 50% responsible. 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 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 an airplane’s black box. 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

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Jefferson?

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.

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.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can still recover compensation as long as you were not more than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, you would recover 80% of your damages.

What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?

NEVER accept a quick settlement without consulting an attorney. These offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Once you accept a settlement, you waive your right to additional compensation.

Can I still recover compensation if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Yes. 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 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 if I can’t afford medical treatment?

We can help connect you with medical providers who will treat you on a lien basis – meaning they’ll get paid from your settlement. We work with trusted medical professionals in Jefferson and across East Texas.

What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in Jefferson?

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.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, their insurance company is still responsible for paying valid claims. We identify all available insurance coverage to maximize your recovery.

How are future medical expenses calculated?

We work with medical experts and life care planners to:

• Identify all future medical needs
• Calculate the cost of future treatment
• Determine the present value of those costs
• Include them in your demand

What is loss of consortium?

Loss of consortium compensates family members for the loss of:

• Companionship
• Affection
• Sexual relations
• Household services
• Guidance and nurturing (for children)

When are punitive damages available?

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)

How do product defects (brakes, tires) create liability?

If a defective component contributed to your accident, we may pursue claims against:

• The truck manufacturer
• The parts manufacturer
• The maintenance company

These product liability claims allow for additional compensation beyond what the trucking company’s insurance covers.

What if road conditions contributed to my accident?

If dangerous road conditions contributed to your accident, we may pursue claims against:

• The Texas Department of Transportation
• Marion County
• The City of Jefferson
• Other government entities

Government claims have special notice requirements and shorter deadlines, so it’s crucial to contact us immediately.

Can I access the trucking company’s safety record?

Yes. We obtain the company’s FMCSA safety record, which includes:

• CSA scores
• Inspection history
• Out-of-service rates
• Crash history
• Safety rating

This information can prove patterns of negligence that support your claim.

What experts do you use in trucking cases?

We work with:

• Accident reconstruction experts
• Medical experts
• Vocational rehabilitation experts
• Life care planners
• Economic experts
• Trucking industry experts
• FMCSA regulation experts

How are wrongful death damages calculated?

Wrongful death damages include:

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

What happens if there’s not enough insurance?

If the trucking company’s insurance is insufficient, we explore:

• Additional insurance policies
• Personal assets of the trucking company
• Your own underinsured motorist coverage
• Other potentially liable parties

Don’t Let the Trucking Company Win

After a devastating trucking accident in Jefferson, you’re facing powerful opponents:

• Trucking companies with teams of lawyers
• Insurance companies trained to minimize claims
• Rapid-response investigators protecting their interests

You need someone on your side who knows how to fight back. At Attorney911, we have:

• 25+ years of experience fighting trucking companies
• A former insurance defense attorney on our team
• The resources to take on large corporations
• A track record of multi-million dollar recoveries
• Federal court experience for complex cases
• Bilingual services for Jefferson’s Hispanic community
• Local knowledge of Jefferson and East Texas

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

Call Attorney911 Now

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Jefferson, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. Every hour you wait, evidence is disappearing. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect them – you deserve the same level of representation.

Remember:

• Free consultation
• No fee unless we win
• 24/7 availability
• Bilingual services available
• Local knowledge of Jefferson and East Texas

Don’t let the trucking company push you around. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for the aggressive, experienced representation you deserve.

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

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