18-Wheeler & Trucking Accident Lawyers in Melvin, Texas | Attorney911

Every year, thousands of 18-wheeler accidents occur on Texas highways. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in Melvin, Texas, you need an attorney who understands federal trucking regulations and how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. We know Melvin’s trucking corridors, from US-87 to the regional distribution routes that connect McCulloch County to major interstates like I-10 and I-20. This local knowledge, combined with our understanding of FMCSA regulations, gives us an advantage in building your case.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different in Melvin, Texas

Trucking accidents in Melvin and McCulloch County present unique challenges:

• Rural highways with high-speed truck traffic – US-87, US-190, and FM 503 see heavy commercial vehicle traffic, including oilfield equipment, agricultural hauls, and long-haul freight.
• Limited emergency response – Rural areas mean longer wait times for first responders, which can worsen injuries.
• Trucking companies cutting corners – Many carriers pressure drivers to meet tight deadlines, leading to fatigue, speeding, and hours-of-service violations.
• Hazardous cargo risks – Oilfield equipment, livestock, and agricultural products can create additional dangers if not properly secured.

Unlike car accidents, trucking crashes involve multiple liable parties, including the driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, maintenance providers, and even manufacturers. The insurance policies are much larger—federal law requires trucking companies to carry at least $750,000 in liability coverage, and many carry $1 million or more. This means that if you’ve suffered catastrophic injuries, there’s a real opportunity to recover full compensation—but only if you have the right legal team on your side.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Melvin, Texas

Trucking accidents in Melvin often result from FMCSA violations and negligent practices by trucking companies. Some of the most common causes we see include:

1. Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)

Federal regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

• 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-hour on-duty window (cannot drive beyond the 14th hour after coming on duty)
• 30-minute break required after 8 hours of driving
• 60/70-hour weekly limit (60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days)

Violations are common in Melvin’s trucking industry because companies pressure drivers to meet tight deadlines. When drivers are overtired, their reaction times slow, increasing the risk of deadly crashes.

“The truck driver had been on the road for 14 hours. That’s illegal. And now you’re paying the price.”
— Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner, Attorney911

How we prove fatigue:

• ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data – Shows exact driving hours
• Dispatch records – Reveals pressure to meet unrealistic deadlines
• GPS/telematics data – Tracks speed and rest stops
• Cell phone records – Shows if driver was distracted while fatigued

2. Distracted Driving (Cell Phones, Dispatch Communications, GPS)

FMCSA regulations prohibit hand-held mobile phone use while driving. Yet, many truck drivers in Melvin still:

• Text or browse social media
• Use dispatch apps while driving
• Adjust GPS devices without pulling over

Distracted driving is a leading cause of truck accidents, especially on rural highways where drivers may feel less monitored.

How we prove distraction:

• Cell phone records – Show calls, texts, or app usage at the time of the crash
• Dashcam footage – May capture the driver using a phone
• Witness statements – Other drivers or bystanders may have seen the distraction

3. Improper Cargo Securement (Shifting Loads, Spills, Overweight Trucks)

Cargo securement failures cause rollovers, jackknifes, and debris spills on Melvin’s highways. Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) require:

• Proper tiedowns (working load limits must meet cargo weight)
• Balanced weight distribution
• Blocking and bracing for certain loads
• Regular inspections during transit

Common cargo-related accidents in Melvin:

• Livestock trailers – Animals shifting weight can cause rollovers
• Oilfield equipment – Improperly secured pipes or machinery can fall onto roads
• Agricultural hauls – Hay bales, grain, or produce loads can shift if not properly secured
• Hazardous materials – Fuel, chemicals, or fertilizers can spill, creating fire or explosion risks

How we prove cargo violations:

• Bill of lading – Shows what was loaded and who secured it
• Loading company records – Reveals if proper procedures were followed
• Post-crash inspection – Examines tiedowns, blocking, and weight distribution
• Witness statements – Drivers who saw the load shift before the crash

4. Brake Failures (Poor Maintenance, Worn Brakes, Overheating)

Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes. Common issues include:

• Worn brake pads/shoes not replaced
• Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
• Air brake system leaks or failures
• Overheated brakes (brake fade) on long descents
• Contaminated brake fluid

Melvin’s rural roads—with their rolling hills and long stretches—put extra strain on truck brakes. Many trucking companies defer maintenance to save costs, leading to preventable failures.

How we prove brake negligence:

• Maintenance records – Shows if brakes were inspected and repaired
• Out-of-service inspection history – Reveals prior violations
• ECM (Engine Control Module) data – Shows brake application timing
• Post-crash brake analysis – Examines brake condition after the accident

5. Tire Blowouts (Underinflation, Overloading, Manufacturing Defects)

Tire blowouts cause 11,000+ truck crashes per year, with 738 fatalities in a recent year. Common causes:

• Underinflated tires – Causes overheating and failure
• Overloaded vehicles – Exceeds tire weight ratings
• Worn or aging tires – Not replaced when tread is too low
• Road debris – Punctures from nails, glass, or sharp objects
• Manufacturing defects – Separation, weak sidewalls

Melvin’s heat and rough roads accelerate tire wear, making blowouts more likely.

How we prove tire negligence:

• Tire maintenance records – Shows inflation checks and replacements
• Vehicle weight records – Determines if truck was overloaded
• Failed tire analysis – Examines tread depth and defect evidence
• Manufacturer recall checks – Identifies known defects

6. Speeding & Reckless Driving (Especially on Rural Highways)

Truck drivers in Melvin often speed to meet deadlines, especially on long stretches of US-87 and US-190. Federal regulations (49 CFR § 392.6) require drivers to:

• Adjust speed for road conditions (wet roads, curves, construction zones)
• Never exceed posted speed limits
• Avoid aggressive driving (tailgating, unsafe lane changes)

Speeding increases stopping distance—an 80,000-pound truck traveling at 65 mph needs 525 feet to stop (nearly two football fields). When a truck can’t stop in time, the result is often a catastrophic rear-end collision.

How we prove speeding:

• ECM/Black Box data – Records speed before impact
• Skid mark analysis – Calculates speed based on braking distance
• Witness statements – Other drivers who saw the truck speeding
• Dashcam footage – May show excessive speed

7. Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone” Collisions)

Trucks have four massive blind spots where the driver cannot see other vehicles:

1. Front No-Zone – 20 feet directly in front of the cab
2. Rear No-Zone – 30 feet behind the trailer
3. Left Side No-Zone – Extends from the cab door backward
4. Right Side No-Zone – Largest blind spot, extends from the cab door backward (much larger than the left side)

Common blind spot accidents in Melvin:

• Lane changes – Truck merges into a vehicle in its blind spot
• Right turns – Truck swings wide and crushes a vehicle in the “squeeze play”
• Highway merges – Truck doesn’t see a car entering its lane

How we prove blind spot negligence:

• Mirror adjustment records – Shows if mirrors were properly set
• Lane change data – From ECM or telematics
• Witness statements – Drivers who saw the truck change lanes unsafely
• Dashcam footage – May show the truck didn’t check mirrors

8. Underride Collisions (Deadliest Type of Truck Accident)

Underride crashes occur when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer, often shearing off the roof and causing decapitation or catastrophic head injuries.

Types of underride accidents in Melvin:

• Rear underride – Vehicle strikes the back of a trailer
• Side underride – Vehicle impacts the side of a trailer (often during turns or lane changes)

Federal law requires rear underride guards (49 CFR § 393.86), but no federal requirement exists for side underride guards—despite advocacy for years.

How we prove underride negligence:

• Underride guard inspection – Checks for proper installation and damage
• Guard certification records – Verifies compliance with safety standards
• Crash reconstruction – Determines if the guard failed on impact

Catastrophic Injuries from 18-Wheeler Accidents in Melvin, Texas

Due to the massive size and weight disparity (an 18-wheeler is 20-25 times heavier than a passenger car), trucking accidents often result in life-altering injuries, including:

1. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

• Mild TBI (Concussion) – Headaches, confusion, memory problems
• Moderate TBI – Extended unconsciousness, cognitive deficits
• Severe TBI – Permanent disability, coma, or death

Long-term consequences:

• Permanent cognitive impairment
• Inability to work
• Need for 24/7 care
• Increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s
• Lifetime care costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+

2. Spinal Cord Injury & Paralysis

• Paraplegia – Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia – Loss of function in all four limbs (may require ventilator)
• Incomplete injury – Some nerve function remains

Lifetime care costs:

• Paraplegia (low): $1.1 million+
• Paraplegia (high): $2.5 million+
• Quadriplegia (low): $3.5 million+
• Quadriplegia (high): $5 million+

3. Amputations

• Traumatic amputation – Limb severed in the crash
• Surgical amputation – Limb removed due to severe damage

Ongoing medical needs:

• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ each)
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Psychological counseling
• Home modifications

4. Severe Burns

• Fuel tank ruptures causing fires
• Hazmat cargo spills leading to chemical burns
• Electrical fires from damaged wiring

Burn classification:

5. Internal Organ Damage

• Liver laceration or rupture
• Spleen damage (may require removal)
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusion or collapse (pneumothorax)
• Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)

Danger: Internal injuries may not show immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening if untreated.

6. Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can file a wrongful death claim in Melvin, Texas. Under Texas law, you may recover:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship, guidance, support)
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Punitive damages (if gross negligence is proven)

Texas statute of limitations: 2 years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Melvin, Texas Trucking Accident?

In trucking accident cases, multiple parties may share liability. At Attorney911, we investigate every potentially responsible party to maximize your compensation.

1. The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone, GPS, dispatch communications)
• Fatigued driving (hours of service violations)
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Violating traffic laws (running red lights, improper turns)

Evidence we pursue:

• Driver’s CDL and medical certification
• Driving record (previous violations, accidents)
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Cell phone records
• ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data

2. The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

Trucking companies are often the most important defendants because they have deep pockets (high insurance limits) and the most responsibility for safety.

Bases for liability:

• Vicarious liability (Respondeat Superior) – The company is responsible for the driver’s negligence if the driver was an employee acting within the scope of employment.
• Negligent hiring – Hiring a driver with a poor safety record or no valid CDL.
• Negligent training – Failing to properly train drivers on safety, cargo securement, or hours of service.
• Negligent supervision – Failing to monitor driver performance, ELD compliance, or safety violations.
• Negligent maintenance – Failing to inspect and repair trucks properly.
• Negligent scheduling – Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service to meet deadlines.

Evidence we pursue:

• Driver Qualification File (DQF) – Hiring records, background checks, training documentation
• Maintenance and inspection records – Shows if the company ignored known defects
• Dispatch records – Reveals if the company pressured drivers to skip rest breaks
• Safety policies and procedures – Demonstrates if the company had adequate safety protocols
• CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores – Shows the company’s safety record and violation history

3. The Cargo Owner / Shipper

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

• Improper loading instructions were provided
• Hazardous materials were not properly disclosed
• Overweight loading was required
• Unrealistic delivery deadlines pressured the driver

Evidence we pursue:

• Shipping contracts and bills of lading
• Loading instructions
• Hazmat disclosure documentation
• Weight certification records

4. The Cargo Loading Company

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

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

Evidence we pursue:

• Loading company securement procedures
• Loader training records
• Securement equipment used
• Weight distribution documentation

5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

The company that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for defects, including:

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

Evidence we pursue:

• Recall notices and technical service bulletins
• Similar defect complaints (NHTSA database)
• Design specifications and testing records
• Component failure analysis

6. Parts Manufacturer

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

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

Evidence we pursue:

• Failed component for expert analysis
• Recall history for specific parts
• Similar failure patterns
• Manufacturing and quality control records

7. Maintenance Company

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

• Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
• Failure to identify critical safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard or wrong parts
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Evidence we pursue:

• Maintenance work orders
• Mechanic qualifications and training
• Parts used in repairs
• Inspection reports and recommendations

8. Freight Broker

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

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

Evidence we pursue:

• Broker-carrier agreements
• Carrier selection criteria
• Carrier safety record at time of selection
• Broker’s due diligence procedures

9. Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

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

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

Evidence we pursue:

• Lease agreements
• Maintenance responsibility allocations
• Owner’s knowledge of driver history

10. Government Entity

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

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

Special considerations:

• Sovereign immunity limits government liability
• Strict notice requirements and short deadlines apply
• Must prove actual notice of the dangerous condition in many cases

Evidence we pursue:

• Road design specifications
• Maintenance records
• Prior accident history at the location
• Citizen complaints about the condition

How Attorney911 Investigates Your Melvin, Texas Trucking Accident

Our 48-hour evidence preservation protocol ensures that critical evidence is secured before it disappears.

Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)

• Accept your case and send spoliation letters the same day
• Deploy accident reconstruction experts to the scene if needed
• Obtain the police crash report
• Photograph your injuries with medical documentation
• Photograph all vehicles before they are repaired or scrapped
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

• Subpoena ECM/Black Box data downloads
• Request driver’s paper log books (backup documentation)
• Obtain complete Driver Qualification File from the carrier
• Request all truck maintenance and inspection records
• Obtain carrier’s CSA safety scores and inspection history
• Order driver’s complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
• Subpoena driver’s cell phone records
• Obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules

Phase 3: Expert Analysis

• Accident reconstruction specialist creates crash analysis
• Medical experts establish causation and future care needs
• Vocational experts calculate lost earning capacity
• Economic experts determine present value of all damages
• Life care planners develop comprehensive care plans for catastrophic injuries
• FMCSA regulation experts identify all violations

Phase 4: Litigation Strategy

• File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires (2 years in Texas)
• Pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
• Depose the truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, and maintenance personnel
• Build your case for trial while negotiating settlement from a position of strength
• Prepare every case as if going to trial (this creates leverage in negotiations)

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Melvin, Texas Trucking Accident Case?

1. 25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

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

• Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for trucking accident victims
• Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Experience in BP explosion litigation against multinational corporations
• Insider knowledge of commercial trucking insurance company tactics from former defense attorneys on our team
• Deep familiarity with Melvin’s trucking corridors, weigh stations, distribution centers, and accident patterns

“For 25+ years, Attorney911 has fought for trucking accident victims across Texas. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes.”
— Attorney911

2. Insider Advantage: Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for a national defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims.

What Lupe learned on the other side:

“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.”
— Attorney911

3. We Handle Cases Other Firms Reject

Many personal injury firms in Melvin and McCulloch County won’t take difficult cases—especially if:

• Liability is disputed
• The trucking company is aggressive
• Your injuries are complex
• The insurance company is denying your claim

At Attorney911, we take cases other firms reject. We’ve won millions for clients who were told by other attorneys that their cases weren’t worth pursuing.

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

“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

4. We Solve Cases Faster Than Other Firms

While some firms let cases drag on for years, we work to resolve cases as efficiently as possible—without sacrificing your compensation.

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client

“Ralph took his bogus case and had it dismissed within a WEEK! I have been trying for over 2 years.”
— Beth Bonds, Attorney911 Client

5. Direct Attorney Access – You’re Not Just a Case Number

At big billboard firms, you might never speak to your attorney—only paralegals or case managers. At Attorney911, you get direct access to Ralph Manginello and our legal team.

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer… Ralph reached out personally.”
— Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client

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

6. We Treat You Like Family

We understand that after a catastrophic trucking accident, you’re going through one of the most difficult times of your life. We treat every client with compassion, respect, and dignity.

“They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. 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

7. Hablamos Español – Fluent Spanish Services

Many trucking accident victims in Melvin speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

“Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.”
— Celia Dominguez, Attorney911 Client

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

8. Proven Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims in Texas, including:

“$50+ Million recovered for Texas families”
— Attorney911

9. We Go to Trial When Necessary

While 95% of cases settle, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures that insurance companies take your claim seriously.

“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.”
— Attorney911

10. No Fee Unless We Win – Zero Risk to You

We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing.

“Worried about affording an attorney? Don’t be. Attorney911 works on contingency—you pay absolutely nothing unless we win your case. We advance all investigation costs. The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect them. You deserve the same level of representation.”
— Attorney911

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Melvin, Texas

1. Call 911 and Report the Accident

• Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
• Request a police report—this is critical evidence for your case.

2. Document the Scene

• Take photos and videos of:
  • All vehicle damage (inside and out)
  • Skid marks, debris, and road conditions
  • Injuries (bruises, cuts, swelling)
  • Traffic signs and signals
  • The truck’s DOT number and license plate
  • The trucking company’s name and logo
• Get witness contact information (names, phone numbers, emails).

3. Do NOT Give a Recorded Statement to Any Insurance Company

• Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you.
• Anything you say can be used against you to minimize your claim.
• Refer all calls to your attorney.

4. Call Attorney911 Immediately – 1-888-ATTY-911

• Critical evidence disappears fast—black box data can be overwritten in 30 days, dashcam footage can be deleted in 7-14 days, and witnesses’ memories fade.
• We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve all evidence.
• The sooner you call, the stronger your case will be.

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

Melvin, Texas Trucking Accident FAQ

1. How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Melvin, Texas?

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

2. How much is my Melvin trucking accident case worth?

Case values depend on:

• Severity of injuries (TBI, spinal cord damage, amputation, etc.)
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
• Available insurance coverage

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.

3. Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures that insurance companies take your claim seriously.

4. 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 less than 50% responsible. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened.

5. What is a spoliation letter, and why is it important?

A spoliation letter is a legal notice demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. This includes:

• ECM/Black Box data
• ELD records
• Maintenance records
• Driver qualification files
• Dashcam footage
• Cell phone records

Sending this letter immediately puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.

6. What is ECM/Black Box data, and how does it help my case?

Commercial trucks have electronic systems that record operational data, including:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Throttle position
• Following distance
• GPS location
• Hours of service (fatigue violations)

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened and can be critical evidence in proving negligence.

7. What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Even if the trucking company goes out of business, we can still pursue:

• Their insurance policy (which remains in effect for covered claims)
• Other liable parties (driver, cargo owner, maintenance company, etc.)
• Your own UM/UIM coverage (if applicable)

8. Can I sue for PTSD after a trucking accident?

Yes. PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) is a compensable injury in Texas. Symptoms may include:

• Flashbacks and nightmares
• Severe anxiety and depression
• Insomnia
• Fear of driving or being on the road

You can claim past, present, and future mental anguish damages.

9. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows modified comparative negligence. As long as you were less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Example: If you were 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you would recover $80,000.

10. How long does a trucking accident 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 compensation.

Melvin, Texas Trucking Corridors & High-Risk Areas

Melvin is located in McCulloch County, which sees heavy commercial truck traffic due to its agricultural, oilfield, and distribution industries. Some of the highest-risk trucking corridors in the area include:

1. US-87 (North-South Corridor)

• Connects San Angelo to Brady, passing through Melvin
• Heavy truck traffic from oilfield equipment, livestock hauls, and agricultural products
• High-speed rural highway with limited shoulders and few passing zones
• Common accident types: Rear-end collisions, rollovers, tire blowouts

2. US-190 (East-West Corridor)

• Connects San Angelo to Brownwood, passing near Melvin
• Major route for freight moving between West Texas and Central Texas
• Common accident types: Jackknife accidents, cargo spills, fatigue-related crashes

3. FM 503 (Melvin to Brady)

• Local route with truck traffic from ranches, farms, and oilfield operations
• Narrow, two-lane road with limited visibility and sharp curves
• Common accident types: Head-on collisions, rollovers, livestock-related crashes

4. I-10 & I-20 (Nearby Major Interstates)

While not directly in Melvin, these major interstates are heavily traveled by trucks and see frequent accidents:

• I-10 (San Antonio to El Paso) – Highest truck traffic in Texas
• I-20 (Midland to Dallas) – Major oilfield and freight corridor
• Common accident types: Underride collisions, rear-end crashes, fatigue-related accidents

5. Local Distribution Centers & Truck Stops

• Melvin’s proximity to US-87 and US-190 makes it a stopping point for long-haul truckers
• Truck stops and rest areas see fatigued drivers, hours-of-service violations, and maintenance shortcuts
• Local warehouses and distribution centers contribute to increased truck traffic on rural roads

Common Trucking Companies Operating in Melvin, Texas

Melvin sees truck traffic from national carriers, regional haulers, and local operators, including:

Why Melvin, Texas Trucking Accident Cases Are Unique

1. Rural Road Challenges

• Limited cell service – Delays emergency response
• Longer EMS response times – Can worsen injuries
• Fewer witnesses – Makes liability harder to prove
• Poor road conditions – Potholes, uneven surfaces, and lack of lighting increase accident risks

2. Agricultural & Oilfield Trucking Risks

• Livestock hauls – Animals shifting weight can cause rollovers
• Oversize loads – Wide or tall equipment creates visibility hazards
• Hazardous materials – Fuel, chemicals, and fertilizers pose explosion/fire risks
• Fatigued drivers – Long hours in remote areas increase fatigue-related crashes

3. Limited Legal Resources in McCulloch County

• Few personal injury attorneys specialize in trucking cases in rural areas
• Local courts may be less familiar with complex trucking litigation
• Insurance companies take advantage of victims who don’t have experienced legal representation

4. Seasonal Trucking Peaks

• Harvest season (summer/fall) – Increased agricultural truck traffic
• Oilfield booms – Sudden spikes in oilfield equipment hauls
• Hunting season (fall/winter) – More trucks transporting ATVs, trailers, and equipment

Melvin, Texas Trucking Accident Statistics

While Melvin-specific data is limited, Texas and McCulloch County statistics paint a concerning picture:

How Much Are Melvin, Texas Trucking Accident Cases Worth?

Case values in Melvin depend on severity of injuries, available insurance, and degree of negligence. Here are typical settlement ranges for trucking accident cases in Texas:

“Unlike car accidents where insurance may be limited to $30,000-$100,000, trucking accidents typically have at least $750,000 available—and often much more. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.”
— Attorney911

What to Expect When Working With Attorney911

Step 1: Free Consultation (24/7 Availability)

• Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 (or fill out our online form)
• We’ll evaluate your case and explain your legal options
• No obligation—just honest advice

Step 2: Case Acceptance & Immediate Action

• We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve evidence
• We connect you with medical care (even if you don’t have insurance)
• We handle all communications with insurance companies

Step 3: Investigation & Evidence Gathering

• Obtain ECM/Black Box data before it’s overwritten
• Subpoena ELD records to prove hours-of-service violations
• Review maintenance records for deferred repairs
• Interview witnesses before memories fade
• Hire accident reconstruction experts

Step 4: Medical Care & Treatment

• We help you get the medical care you need
• We work with doctors to document your injuries
• We ensure your treatment plan accounts for long-term needs

Step 5: Demand Letter & Negotiation

• We calculate the full value of your damages (medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering)
• We send a demand letter to the trucking company’s insurance
• We negotiate aggressively for maximum compensation

Step 6: Litigation (If Necessary)

• We file a lawsuit if the insurance company refuses a fair settlement
• We conduct depositions of the driver, dispatcher, and safety manager
• We prepare your case for trial (while continuing settlement negotiations)

Step 7: Resolution (Settlement or Trial)

• Most cases settle before trial
• If necessary, we take your case to court and fight for justice
• You receive your compensation (we deduct our fee and case expenses)

Melvin, Texas Trucking Accident Client Testimonials

“I was rear-ended and the team got right to work… I also got a very nice settlement.”
— MONGO SLADE, 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

“I lost everything… my car was at a total loss, and because of Attorney Manginello and my case worker Leonor, 1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.”
— Kiimarii Yup, Attorney911 Client

“They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

“Ralph took his bogus case and had it dismissed within a WEEK! I have been trying for over 2 years.”
— Beth Bonds, Attorney911 Client

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer… Ralph reached out personally.”
— Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client

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

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

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client

“Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.”
— Celia Dominguez, Attorney911 Client

Contact Attorney911 – Your Melvin, Texas Trucking Accident Lawyers

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Melvin, Texas, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every day, and the trucking company already has lawyers working to protect their interests.

Call us now for a free consultation:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 Attorney911.com

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.

We answer calls 24/7. You pay nothing unless we win your case.

“The trucking company has lawyers. So should you. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911.”
— Attorney911