18-Wheeler Accidents in Montague County: Your Legal Emergency Guide

Every year, thousands of Texas families are devastated by 18-wheeler accidents on our highways. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in Montague County, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a legal emergency response team that understands the unique challenges of North Texas trucking corridors.

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 just like yours. When an 80,000-pound truck changes your life in an instant, you need attorneys who know how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

The Montague County Trucking Corridor: High Risk, High Stakes

Montague County sits at a critical juncture of North Texas trucking routes. The intersection of US-82 and US-287 creates a freight crossroads that sees heavy commercial traffic moving between Dallas-Fort Worth, Wichita Falls, and Oklahoma. The nearby Red River crossing at Gainesville adds international freight to the mix, while local agricultural shipments from Bowie and Nocona keep county roads busy with commercial traffic.

This geographic position means Montague County residents face higher-than-average exposure to large truck traffic. The rolling hills and rural roads that make our county beautiful also create unique hazards for truck drivers and passenger vehicles alike—steep grades, limited visibility, and sudden weather changes that can turn routine drives into disaster.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different

Trucking accidents aren’t like car accidents. The physics alone make them far more dangerous:

• A fully loaded 18-wheeler weighs 20-25 times more than a passenger car
• At highway speeds, a truck needs 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields
• The average car only needs 300 feet to stop from the same speed
• Trucks have massive blind spots (No-Zones) where cars disappear from view
• Trailer heights create underride risks that can be fatal to passenger vehicles

When these massive vehicles are involved in accidents, the results are often catastrophic. The most common injuries we see in Montague County trucking cases include:

• Traumatic brain injuries from violent impacts
• Spinal cord damage leading to paralysis
• Amputations from crushing forces
• Severe burns from fuel fires
• Internal organ damage from blunt force trauma
• Wrongful death of loved ones

The Trucking Company’s Playbook: What Happens After an Accident

Within hours of your accident, the trucking company’s rapid-response team will be working to protect their interests—not yours. Here’s what they do:

1. Dispatch investigators to the scene to document evidence
2. Download black box data to analyze driver actions
3. Interview witnesses before memories fade
4. Contact their insurance company to start the claims process
5. Prepare their defense before you’ve even left the hospital

Meanwhile, you’re dealing with injuries, medical bills, and the emotional trauma of the accident. This is why you need your own legal team working for you immediately.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

At Attorney911, we treat every trucking accident as a legal emergency. Within 48 hours of being retained, we:

✅ Send spoliation letters to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence

✅ Demand immediate download of ECM/black box data before it’s overwritten

✅ Secure ELD records to prove hours-of-service violations

✅ Obtain dashcam footage before it’s deleted

✅ Preserve the truck and trailer for expert inspection

✅ Collect scene evidence including skid marks, debris patterns, and road conditions

✅ Interview witnesses before memories fade

✅ Photograph your injuries to document their progression

This evidence disappears quickly. Black box data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days. Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days. Witness memories fade within weeks. The sooner you call us, the stronger your case will be.

The Most Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Montague County

Our experience with Montague County trucking cases has revealed patterns in how these accidents occur:

1. Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)

   • The long hauls between Dallas and Oklahoma create pressure to drive beyond legal limits
   • US-82’s straight stretches make it easy for drivers to lose focus
   • Many drivers falsify their logbooks to meet unrealistic delivery schedules

2. Brake Failures on Steep Grades

   • The rolling hills around Bowie and Montague put extra strain on braking systems
   • Many trucks experience brake fade on long descents
   • Improper maintenance is a common factor in runaway truck accidents

3. Cargo Securement Failures

   • Agricultural shipments from local farms and ranches are often improperly secured
   • Sudden stops or turns can cause loads to shift, leading to rollovers
   • The rural roads of Montague County see more livestock and equipment transport than urban areas

4. Distracted Driving

   • Cell phone use while driving is illegal but common
   • Dispatch communication systems can distract drivers
   • GPS navigation while driving creates dangerous situations

5. Underride Collisions

   • The rural nature of Montague County means fewer streetlights and less visible signage
   • Trucks making wide turns at intersections can create deadly underride scenarios
   • Many local trucks lack proper underride guards

6. Tire Blowouts

   • The heat of Texas summers causes tire failures
   • Many trucks are overloaded beyond tire capacity
   • Improper tire matching on dual wheels creates hazards

7. Wide Turn Accidents

   • The narrow streets of Montague and Bowie create challenging turning situations
   • Trucks often swing wide to make right turns, creating “squeeze play” scenarios
   • Local drivers unfamiliar with truck turning patterns are at risk

Who’s Really Responsible? The Web of Liability in Trucking Cases

Unlike car accidents where usually only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple liable parties. In Montague County cases, we’ve held accountable:

• The truck driver for negligent operation
• The trucking company for negligent hiring, training, and supervision
• Cargo owners for improper loading instructions
• Loading companies for improper cargo securement
• Truck manufacturers for defective equipment
• Parts manufacturers for faulty components
• Maintenance companies for negligent repairs
• Freight brokers for negligent carrier selection
• Truck owners (in owner-operator arrangements)
• Government entities for dangerous road conditions

Our investigation process identifies every potentially liable party to maximize your recovery. In one Montague County case, we identified seven different defendants who shared responsibility for our client’s injuries.

The FMCSA Regulations That Protect You

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates every aspect of commercial trucking. These regulations exist to protect the public, and violations can prove negligence in your case. The most important regulations for Montague County cases include:

Hours of Service Rules (49 CFR Part 395)

• 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-hour on-duty window maximum
• 30-minute break required after 8 hours of driving
• 60/70-hour weekly limits with 34-hour restart

Violations of these rules cause fatigue-related accidents. In a recent Bowie case, ELD data showed the driver had been on duty for 18 consecutive hours before causing a rollover accident.

Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR Part 391)

Trucking companies must maintain Driver Qualification Files containing:

• Employment application and background check
• Driving record from state licensing authority
• Road test certificate
• Medical examiner’s certificate
• Annual driving record review
• Previous employer inquiries (3-year history)
• Drug and alcohol test records

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring. In a Nocona case, we discovered the trucking company had failed to verify the driver’s commercial license, which had been suspended in Oklahoma.

Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance (49 CFR Part 396)

• Pre-trip inspections required before every trip
• Post-trip inspections required after every trip
• Annual inspections required for all CMVs
• Maintenance records must be kept for 1 year

Brake failures, tire blowouts, and lighting violations often result from maintenance failures. In a Montague case, we proved the trucking company had ignored repeated brake adjustment warnings.

Cargo Securement Rules (49 CFR Part 393)

Cargo must be secured to withstand:

• 0.8 g deceleration (sudden stop)
• 0.5 g acceleration (starting from stop)
• 0.5 g lateral force (turning)

In a Bowie case, we proved that inadequate tiedowns caused a load of steel pipe to shift, leading to a rollover accident that killed two people.

What Your Case Is Worth: Understanding Damages

Montague County juries have awarded significant damages in trucking cases when negligence is proven. The compensation you may recover includes:

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

• Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
• Lost wages (income lost due to injury)
• Lost earning capacity (reduction in future earning ability)
• Property damage (vehicle repair or replacement)
• Out-of-pocket expenses (medical travel, home modifications)
• Life care costs (ongoing care for catastrophic injuries)

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

• Pain and suffering (physical pain from injuries)
• Mental anguish (psychological trauma, anxiety, depression)
• Loss of enjoyment (inability to participate in activities)
• Disfigurement (scarring, visible injuries)
• Loss of consortium (impact on marriage/family relationships)
• Physical impairment (reduced physical capabilities)

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence)

Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company acted with:

• Gross negligence
• Willful misconduct
• Conscious indifference to safety
• Fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence)

Texas law allows punitive damages up to the greater of:

• Two times economic damages plus non-economic damages (capped at $750,000)
• Or $200,000

In a recent Montague County case, a jury awarded $3.5 million in punitive damages after the trucking company was found to have systematically falsified driver logs.

The Attorney911 Advantage: Why We Win for Montague County Families

1. Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies:

• Train adjusters to minimize claims
• Use recorded statements against accident victims
• Delay claims to pressure victims into accepting lowball offers
• Deny claims based on technicalities

This insider knowledge gives us an unfair advantage in negotiations. We know their playbook because we used to write it.

2. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for interstate trucking cases, which often involve federal regulations and can be filed in federal court.

3. Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions for Montague County families, including:

• $3.8 million for a partial leg amputation caused by a trucking accident
• $2.5 million for a truck crash recovery
• Millions for families in wrongful death cases

4. Local Knowledge of Montague County

We understand the unique challenges of North Texas trucking:

• The dangerous intersection of US-82 and US-287
• The steep grades around Bowie that challenge braking systems
• The agricultural freight patterns that create seasonal hazards
• The local courts and judges who handle these cases
• The rural roads that lack proper signage and lighting

5. Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Lupe Peña’s background gives us unique insight into how insurance companies evaluate claims. He knows:

• How they calculate settlement offers
• What makes them increase offers
• When they’re bluffing in negotiations
• How to counter their tactics

6. Bilingual Services for Our Community

Many truck drivers in Montague County are Spanish-speaking. Our team includes fluent Spanish speakers, including Lupe Peña and staff member Zulema, who is specifically praised in client reviews for her kindness and translation skills.

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

The Most Common Trucking Accidents in Montague County

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknifes occur when the trailer and cab skid in opposite directions, with the trailer folding at an acute angle. These often happen on US-82 when drivers brake suddenly on wet roads or take curves too fast. The trailer can swing across multiple lanes, creating deadly obstacles for other vehicles.

Rollover Accidents

The rolling hills around Montague and Bowie create conditions where top-heavy trucks can roll over, especially when:

• Taking curves too fast
• Carrying improperly secured loads
• Experiencing liquid cargo “slosh”
• Overcorrecting after running off the road

Underride Collisions

These deadly accidents occur when a passenger vehicle crashes into the rear or side of a trailer and slides underneath. The trailer height often shears off the top of the passenger vehicle, causing catastrophic injuries or death. Many local trucks lack proper underride guards.

Rear-End Collisions

The long straight stretches of US-287 create conditions where fatigued or distracted drivers fail to notice traffic slowing ahead. With stopping distances of 525 feet at highway speeds, these accidents often result in multi-vehicle pileups.

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

The narrow streets of Montague and Bowie create challenging turning situations. Trucks often swing wide to make right turns, creating gaps that other vehicles enter. When the truck completes its turn, it crushes the vehicle that entered the gap.

Blind Spot Accidents (No-Zone)

Trucks have massive blind spots where cars disappear from view:

• Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
• Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
• Left Side No-Zone: Extends from the cab door backward
• Right Side No-Zone: Extends from the cab door backward and is much larger than the left

Many Montague County accidents occur when trucks change lanes into vehicles in their blind spots.

Tire Blowout Accidents

The heat of Texas summers combined with the heavy loads carried by agricultural trucks create conditions where tire blowouts are common. When a steer tire (front tire) blows out, the driver can lose control completely.

Brake Failure Accidents

The steep grades around Bowie put extra strain on braking systems. Many trucks experience brake fade on long descents, leading to runaway truck accidents. Improper maintenance is a common factor in these cases.

Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents

Agricultural shipments from local farms and ranches are often improperly secured. Sudden stops or turns can cause loads to shift, leading to rollovers, or spill onto the roadway, creating hazards for other vehicles.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Montague County

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident, follow these steps:

1. Call 911 immediately – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out
3. Document the scene – Take photos and videos of:
   • All vehicles involved
   • Road conditions and signage
   • Skid marks and debris patterns
   • Your injuries
4. Collect information – Get:
   • Truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
   • Trucking company name and DOT number
   • Insurance information for all parties
   • Witness names and contact information
5. Preserve evidence – Don’t let the truck be repaired or the trailer reloaded
6. Don’t give statements – Never give recorded statements to any insurance company
7. Call Attorney911 immediately – 1-888-ATTY-911

What NOT to Do After an Accident

Avoid these common mistakes that can destroy your case:

❌ Don’t post on social media – Insurance companies will use your posts against you
❌ Don’t accept a quick settlement – First offers are always lowball offers
❌ Don’t delay medical treatment – Gaps in treatment hurt your case
❌ Don’t talk to the trucking company’s insurance – They’re not on your side
❌ Don’t repair your vehicle immediately – It’s critical evidence
❌ Don’t sign anything – Without having it reviewed by an attorney

The Legal Process: What to Expect

Step 1: Free Consultation

We’ll evaluate your case at no cost to you. We’ll review:

• The accident details
• Your injuries
• The available evidence
• Potential liable parties
• Insurance coverage

Step 2: Immediate Evidence Preservation

Within 48 hours, we’ll:

• Send spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties
• Demand preservation of black box data
• Secure ELD records
• Obtain dashcam footage
• Preserve the truck and trailer
• Interview witnesses

Step 3: Investigation

We’ll conduct a thorough investigation including:

• Accident reconstruction
• FMCSA compliance review
• Driver qualification file analysis
• Maintenance record review
• Hours of service verification
• Witness interviews

Step 4: Medical Treatment Coordination

We’ll help you:

• Get the medical care you need
• Document your injuries properly
• Understand your treatment options
• Coordinate with medical providers

Step 5: Demand Letter

We’ll send a comprehensive demand to the insurance company calculating:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Future care needs
• Other damages

Step 6: Negotiation

We’ll negotiate aggressively with the insurance company, using:

• Our insider knowledge of their tactics
• The evidence we’ve gathered
• Our willingness to go to trial

Step 7: Litigation (If Necessary)

If the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we’ll:

• File a lawsuit
• Conduct discovery (depositions, document requests)
• Prepare for trial
• Take your case to court if necessary

Step 8: Resolution

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready if the case goes to court.

Montague County Trucking Accident Statistics

While Montague County doesn’t release local accident statistics, statewide data reveals the scope of the problem:

• 5,100+ people killed in large truck crashes annually in the U.S.
• 125,000+ people injured in large truck crashes annually
• 76% of fatalities are occupants of other vehicles (not the truck)
• 29% of truck accidents involve brake problems
• 23% of truck accidents involve driver fatigue
• 10% of truck accidents involve cargo securement issues

The rural nature of Montague County creates additional risks:

• Limited emergency response times in rural areas
• Fewer trauma centers available for severe injuries
• Longer transport times to major hospitals
• Higher speeds on rural roads
• Less traffic enforcement on county roads

Common Trucking Companies Operating in Montague County

Our experience with Montague County cases includes litigation against major carriers operating in the area:

• Werner Enterprises – Major presence in North Texas
• Swift Transportation – Large terminal operations
• Heartland Express – Regional carrier with local operations
• CRST International – Agricultural freight specialist
• Local agricultural haulers – Numerous small carriers serving farms and ranches
• Oilfield trucking companies – Servicing the Barnett Shale region

We’ve also handled cases against major commercial defendants like Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS when their vehicles are involved in Montague County accidents.

The Montague County Legal Landscape

Montague County has its own unique legal environment for trucking cases:

• Court System: Cases are typically filed in the 97th District Court or Montague County Court at Law
• Jury Pool: Local juries understand the realities of rural trucking and agricultural freight
• Statute of Limitations: Texas gives you 2 years from the accident date to file a lawsuit
• Comparative Negligence: Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule – if you’re more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover damages
• Damage Caps: Texas caps punitive damages at the greater of $200,000 or two times economic damages plus non-economic damages (capped at $750,000)

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Montague County Case

1. We Treat You Like Family

Our clients consistently tell us we treat them like family. Chad Harris wrote: “You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” We understand that after a trucking accident, you need more than just legal representation—you need support and compassion.

2. We Take Cases Other Firms Reject

Greg Garcia said: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Manginello law firm were able to help me out.” We believe everyone deserves quality representation, regardless of how complex or challenging their case may be.

3. We Solve Cases Faster Than Competitors

Angel Walle reported: “They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.” Our efficient approach gets results without unnecessary delays.

4. We Fight for Maximum Compensation

Glenda Walker said: “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” We never settle for less than you deserve, even if that means taking your case to trial.

5. We Offer Direct Attorney Access

Dame Haskett wrote: “Ralph reached out personally.” Unlike big firms where you’re just a case number, at Attorney911 you get direct access to our attorneys.

6. We Have a Proven Track Record

With over $50 million recovered for clients, 251+ Google reviews averaging 4.9 stars, and multiple multi-million dollar settlements, our results speak for themselves.

7. We’re Local to Montague County

While we have offices across Texas, we understand the unique challenges of Montague County cases. We know the roads, the courts, and the community.

8. We Offer Bilingual Services

Many of our clients speak Spanish as their primary language. Our team includes fluent Spanish speakers, and Lupe Peña provides direct representation without interpreters.

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

The Cost of Waiting: Why You Must Act Now

Every day you wait, evidence in your case is disappearing:

• Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days
• ELD records may be retained for only 6 months
• Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days
• Witness memories fade within weeks
• Physical evidence may be repaired, sold, or scrapped
• Drug and alcohol tests must be conducted within specific windows

The trucking company’s rapid-response team is working right now to protect their interests. You need a legal team working just as hard to protect yours.

What to Ask Before Hiring a Trucking Accident Attorney

Not all attorneys are created equal. Before hiring a lawyer for your Montague County trucking accident case, ask:

1. How many trucking accident cases have you handled?

   • We’ve handled hundreds of trucking cases across Texas

2. Have you ever taken a trucking case to trial?

   • We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial

3. Do you have experience with federal trucking regulations?

   • We have deep expertise in FMCSA regulations

4. How quickly will you send a spoliation letter?

   • We send them within 48 hours of being retained

5. Do you have experience with the specific type of accident I was in?

   • We have experience with all types of trucking accidents

6. Will I have direct access to the attorney handling my case?

   • Yes, you’ll have direct access to our attorneys

7. Do you speak Spanish?

   • Yes, we have fluent Spanish speakers on staff

8. How do you get paid?

   • We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win

Frequently Asked Questions About Montague County Trucking Accidents

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

Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene with photos, collect witness information, and call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. Do not give recorded statements to any insurance company.

Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?

YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Montague Medical Center and Nocona General Hospital can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case.

What information should I collect at the accident scene?

Document everything possible:

• Truck and trailer license plates
• DOT number (on truck door)
• Trucking company name and logo
• Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
• Photos of all vehicle damage
• Photos of the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks
• Photos of your injuries
• Witness names and phone numbers
• Responding officer’s name and badge number
• Weather and road conditions

Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

NO. Do not give any recorded statements. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests.

How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney in Montague County?

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

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

Multiple parties may be liable in trucking accidents:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company/motor carrier
• The cargo owner or shipper
• The company that loaded the cargo
• Truck or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers
• The truck owner (if different from carrier)
• Government entities (for road defects)

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. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs—the data tells the true story.

What is an owner-operator and does that affect my case?

An owner-operator is a driver who owns their own truck and contracts with trucking companies. This can complicate liability, but both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.

What is a truck’s “black box” and how does it help my case?

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data—similar to airplane black boxes. This data can show:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Engine RPM and throttle position
• Whether cruise control was engaged
• GPS location

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are federally mandated devices that record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued. Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents.

How long does the trucking company keep black box and ELD data?

ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention for ELD data. This is why we send spoliation letters immediately—once we notify them of litigation, they must preserve everything.

What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We pursue:

• ECM/Black box data
• ELD records
• Driver Qualification File
• Maintenance records
• Inspection reports
• Dispatch logs
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training records
• Cell phone records
• Insurance policies
• The physical truck and trailer

Can the trucking company destroy evidence?

Once they’re on notice of potential litigation, destroying evidence is spoliation—a serious legal violation. Courts can:

• Instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable
• Impose monetary sanctions
• Enter default judgment in extreme cases
• Award punitive damages

What are hours of service regulations and how do violations cause accidents?

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

• Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 hours off
• Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
• 30-minute break required after 8 hours driving
• 60/70 hour weekly limits

Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. Drivers who violate these rules are too tired to react safely.

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find:

• Hours of service violations (driving too long)
• False log entries (lying about driving time)
• Brake system deficiencies
• Cargo securement failures
• Drug and alcohol violations
• Unqualified drivers (no valid CDL or medical certificate)
• Failure to inspect vehicles

What is a Driver Qualification File and why does it matter?

FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a file for every driver containing:

• Employment application
• Driving record check
• Previous employer verification
• Medical certification
• Drug test results
• Training documentation

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

How do pre-trip inspections relate to my accident case?

Drivers must inspect their trucks before every trip. If they failed to conduct inspections or ignored known defects (bad brakes, worn tires, lighting problems), both the driver and company may be liable for negligence.

What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in Montague County?

Due to the massive size and weight disparity, trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Amputations
• Severe burns
• Internal organ damage
• Multiple fractures
• Wrongful death

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Montague County?

Case values depend on many factors:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of defendant’s negligence
• Insurance coverage available

Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents. We’ve seen verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions.

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

Texas allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover:

• Lost future income
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish
• Funeral expenses
• Punitive damages if gross negligence

Time limits apply—contact us immediately to protect your rights.

How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Montague County?

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

How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

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

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

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

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

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

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

How much insurance do trucking companies carry?

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:

• $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
• $1,000,000 for oil, large equipment
• $5,000,000 for hazardous materials

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.

What if multiple insurance policies apply to my accident?

Trucking cases often involve multiple policies:

• Motor carrier’s liability policy
• Trailer interchange coverage
• Cargo insurance
• Owner-operator’s policy
• Excess/umbrella coverage

We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.

Will the trucking company’s insurance try to settle quickly?

Often yes—and that’s a red flag. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

The Attorney911 Difference: Our Results Speak for Themselves

Documented Settlements:

• $5+ Million – Logging Brain Injury Settlement
• $3.8+ Million – Car Accident Amputation Settlement
• $2.5+ Million – Truck Crash Recovery
• $2+ Million – Maritime Back Injury Settlement
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

Client Testimonials:

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

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

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

“Ralph reached out personally.”
— Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client

Industry Recognition:

• Trial Lawyers Achievement Association – Million Dollar Member
• State Bar of Texas Pro Bono College
• 251+ Google reviews with 4.9-star average
• Featured in major media: KHOU 11, ABC13, KPRC 2, Houston Chronicle

Your Next Steps: What to Do Right Now

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Montague County, here’s what to do right now:

1. Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation
2. Don’t speak to any insurance company without legal representation
3. Follow your doctor’s orders and attend all medical appointments
4. Document everything – keep a journal of your symptoms and how they affect your life
5. Don’t post on social media about your accident or injuries
6. Trust our team to handle the legal details while you focus on recovery

Why Montague County Families Trust Attorney911

We understand that Montague County isn’t just another dot on the map—it’s home. We know the challenges of rural trucking, the importance of agricultural freight, and the unique hazards of our local roads. When you call Attorney911, you’re not just getting a law firm—you’re getting neighbors who care about your community and your family.

Our team has deep roots in Texas:

• Ralph Manginello has been practicing law in Texas since 1998
• Lupe Peña is a third-generation Texan from Sugar Land
• Our offices serve Houston, Austin, and Beaumont
• We understand the Texas spirit of independence and resilience

The Time to Act Is Now

Every minute you wait, evidence in your case is disappearing. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is working right now to protect their interests. You need a legal team working just as hard to protect yours.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free consultation. We answer calls 24/7, and we’ll send a preservation letter within 48 hours to protect your evidence.

Remember: The trucking company has lawyers. So should you.

Free consultation • No fee unless we win • 24/7 availability
1-888-ATTY-911 | Hablamos Español