18-Wheeler & Trucking Accident Attorneys in Kerens, TX | Attorney911
Catastrophic Truck Crashes on Kerens Highways Demand Immediate Legal Action
One moment, you’re driving along US-287 or I-45 near Kerens, Texas. The next, an 80,000-pound 18-wheeler is jackknifing across three lanes, crushing your vehicle, and changing your life forever. Trucking accidents don’t just cause injuries—they create legal emergencies where evidence disappears by the hour, and trucking companies deploy rapid-response teams to protect their interests, not yours.
If you or a loved one has been devastated by a commercial truck crash in Kerens, Corsicana, or anywhere in Navarro County, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a legal emergency response team that moves as fast as the trucking companies trying to destroy your case.
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for Texas truck accident victims for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of the largest trucking companies in America. We know Kerens’ trucking corridors, the local courts, and exactly how to hold negligent carriers accountable.
Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Why Kerens Truck Accidents Are Different (And More Dangerous)
Kerens sits at a critical juncture in Texas’ freight network. US-287, a major north-south trucking corridor, runs right through town, connecting Dallas-Fort Worth to Houston. I-45, one of the busiest interstate highways in the country, passes just 30 minutes to the west. These routes carry:
- Long-haul freight moving between Dallas and Houston
- Oilfield equipment from the Eagle Ford and Permian Basin
- Agricultural products from Navarro County’s farms
- Hazardous materials (fuel, chemicals, industrial cargo)
The mix of local traffic, high-speed interstate trucking, and rural two-lane roads creates a perfect storm for catastrophic accidents. Kerens-area truck crashes often involve:
✅ Fatigued drivers pushing beyond FMCSA hours-of-service limits
✅ Overloaded or improperly secured cargo causing rollovers and spills
✅ Brake failures on steep grades near Richland-Chambers Lake
✅ Distracted driving (cell phones, dispatch communications, fatigue)
✅ Tire blowouts from poor maintenance or Texas heat
✅ Underride collisions where passenger vehicles slide beneath trailers
These aren’t minor fender-benders—they’re life-altering disasters. And unlike car accidents, trucking cases involve multiple liable parties, federal regulations, and insurance policies worth millions.
Kerens Trucking Corridors: Where Accidents Happen Most
Our attorneys know Kerens’ trucking hotspots because we’ve handled cases on every major route in Navarro County:
🚛 US-287 (Main Street, Kerens)
- High-risk zones: The stretch between Kerens and Corsicana, especially near FM-637 and FM-744
- Common accidents: Rear-end collisions, wide right turns at intersections, cargo spills
- Why dangerous? Mix of local traffic, truck stops, and high-speed freight traffic
🚛 I-45 (30 Minutes West of Kerens)
- High-risk zones: The Corsicana exit (Exit 227) and the Richland-Chambers Lake bridge
- Common accidents: Jackknifes, rollovers, tire blowouts, multi-vehicle pileups
- Why dangerous? One of the deadliest interstates in America, with heavy truck traffic
🚛 FM-3096 & FM-637 (Rural Routes)
- High-risk zones: Sharp curves, unmarked intersections, and areas with limited lighting
- Common accidents: Head-on collisions, run-off-road crashes, wildlife strikes
- Why dangerous? Trucks traveling at high speeds on unfamiliar rural roads
🚛 Local Distribution Centers & Truck Stops
- High-risk zones: Loading docks, fueling stations, and rest areas
- Common accidents: Backing collisions, slip-and-falls, equipment failures
- Why dangerous? Fatigued drivers, rushed loading/unloading, poor maintenance
If your accident happened on any of these routes, we know the local factors that could strengthen your case.
Why You Need a Kerens Truck Accident Lawyer Immediately
After a truck crash, evidence disappears fast. The trucking company has a team working to protect their interests—you need someone protecting yours.
🚨 What Happens in the First 48 Hours After a Truck Accident
| Time | What the Trucking Company Does | What You Should Do |
|---|---|---|
| Hour 1 | Dispatch rapid-response team to accident scene | Call 911, seek medical attention |
| Hour 2 | Photograph scene, interview witnesses | Take your own photos, get witness info |
| Hour 6 | Download black box data (ECM/ELD) | Call Attorney911 to send spoliation letter |
| Hour 12 | Begin drafting accident report to minimize fault | Do NOT give recorded statements to insurance |
| Day 2 | Begin repairing or scrapping the truck | We inspect the vehicle before it’s altered |
| Day 7 | Dashcam footage may be deleted | We subpoena all video evidence |
| Day 30 | Black box data may be overwritten | We preserve all electronic evidence |
Every hour you wait, evidence in your case is disappearing. The trucking company’s insurance adjuster is already building their defense. You need a lawyer who moves just as fast.
The Devastating Injuries We See in Kerens Truck Accidents
Truck crashes aren’t like car accidents. The size and weight disparity (an 18-wheeler is 20-25 times heavier than your car) means the injuries are often catastrophic.
🩹 Common Truck Accident Injuries in Navarro County
| Injury Type | How It Happens | Lifetime Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) | Head strikes dashboard, windshield, or trailer | Permanent cognitive impairment, memory loss, personality changes |
| Spinal Cord Injury (Paralysis) | Crushing force from truck impact | Quadriplegia, paraplegia, lifelong disability |
| Amputations | Limbs crushed or severed in collision | Permanent disability, phantom pain, psychological trauma |
| Severe Burns | Fuel tank ruptures, chemical spills, fires | Multiple surgeries, permanent scarring, disfigurement |
| Internal Organ Damage | Blunt force trauma from truck impact | Organ failure, lifelong health complications |
| Multiple Fractures | Crushing injuries from truck collision | Chronic pain, limited mobility, arthritis |
| Wrongful Death | Fatal truck crashes | Irreplaceable loss of a loved one, financial devastation |
These injuries don’t just heal—they change lives forever. Medical bills pile up, careers are destroyed, and families struggle to cope. That’s why we fight for maximum compensation to cover:
✔ Past and future medical expenses (surgeries, rehab, home modifications)
✔ Lost wages and earning capacity (if you can’t work or must change careers)
✔ Pain and suffering (physical pain, emotional trauma, loss of enjoyment of life)
✔ Punitive damages (if the trucking company acted with gross negligence)
Who Is Liable in Your Kerens Truck Accident?
Unlike car accidents, multiple parties can be held responsible in a trucking case. We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.
📋 Potentially Liable Parties in Your Case
| Party | How They Could Be Liable | Evidence We Pursue |
|---|---|---|
| Truck Driver | Speeding, fatigue, distraction, impairment | ELD logs, cell phone records, toxicology reports |
| Trucking Company | Negligent hiring, poor training, HOS violations | Driver qualification files, training records, dispatch logs |
| Cargo Owner/Shipper | Overloading, improper securement, hazmat violations | Bills of lading, loading instructions, weight tickets |
| Loading Company | Improper cargo securement, unbalanced loads | Loading procedures, tiedown records, weight distribution |
| Truck Manufacturer | Defective brakes, tires, or safety systems | Recall history, design defects, expert analysis |
| Parts Manufacturer | Defective brakes, tires, or steering components | Failed parts, manufacturing records, similar complaints |
| Maintenance Company | Negligent repairs, deferred maintenance | Work orders, mechanic records, inspection reports |
| Freight Broker | Negligent carrier selection | Broker-carrier agreements, safety records |
| Truck Owner (if different from carrier) | Negligent entrustment | Lease agreements, maintenance responsibilities |
| Government Entity | Dangerous road conditions, poor signage | Road design plans, maintenance records, prior accidents |
We leave no stone unturned. If multiple parties are responsible, we pursue all of them to ensure you receive full compensation.
How We Prove the Trucking Company Was Negligent
Trucking companies don’t admit fault—they fight aggressively to avoid liability. We use federal regulations, black box data, and expert witnesses to build an ironclad case.
🔍 Key Evidence We Obtain in Every Kerens Trucking Case
1. Electronic Data (Black Box, ELD, GPS)
- ECM (Engine Control Module): Records speed, braking, throttle position, and fault codes
- ELD (Electronic Logging Device): Proves hours-of-service violations and fatigue
- GPS/Telematics: Shows route, speed, and driving behavior
- Dashcam Footage: Captures the accident and driver behavior
🚨 This data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days—we send spoliation letters immediately to preserve it.
2. Driver Records (Proving Negligent Hiring/Training)
- Driver Qualification File (DQF): Employment application, background check, training records
- Medical Certification: Shows if driver was medically unfit
- Drug/Alcohol Tests: Proves impairment at time of accident
- Previous Violations: Demonstrates pattern of unsafe driving
3. Maintenance & Inspection Records
- Pre-Trip/Post-Trip Inspections: Shows if driver ignored known defects
- Annual Inspections: Proves systematic maintenance failures
- Repair Records: Identifies deferred maintenance on brakes, tires, lights
- Out-of-Service Orders: Documents prior safety violations
4. Cargo & Loading Records
- Bill of Lading: Shows cargo weight and type
- Loading Instructions: Proves if cargo was improperly secured
- Weight Tickets: Confirms if truck was overloaded
- Securement Photos: Documents tiedown failures
5. FMCSA Compliance Records
- CSA Scores: Shows carrier’s safety record
- Inspection History: Identifies pattern of violations
- Crash Reports: Documents prior accidents
- Safety Rating: Proves systemic negligence
The FMCSA Violations That Cause Kerens Truck Accidents
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict safety rules for trucking companies. When these rules are violated, accidents happen—and the company is liable.
📜 Most Common FMCSA Violations in Kerens Truck Crashes
| Violation | Regulation | How It Causes Accidents | How We Prove It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hours of Service (HOS) Violations | 49 CFR § 395 | Driver fatigue leads to delayed reaction times | ELD logs, dispatch records |
| False Log Entries | 49 CFR § 395.8 | Drivers lie about driving time to meet deadlines | ELD data vs. paper logs |
| Brake System Deficiencies | 49 CFR § 393.48 | Worn brakes increase stopping distance | Maintenance records, post-crash inspection |
| Cargo Securement Failures | 49 CFR § 393.100-136 | Shifting loads cause rollovers or spills | Loading records, tiedown inspection |
| Unqualified Drivers | 49 CFR § 391 | Hiring drivers with suspended licenses or poor records | Driver qualification file, MVR check |
| Drug/Alcohol Violations | 49 CFR § 392.4/5 | Impaired drivers lose control | Toxicology reports, witness statements |
| Mobile Phone Use | 49 CFR § 392.82 | Distracted driving causes lane departures | Cell phone records, dashcam footage |
| Failure to Inspect | 49 CFR § 396.13 | Drivers ignore known defects (bad tires, brakes) | Pre-trip inspection reports, maintenance logs |
| Improper Lighting | 49 CFR § 393.11 | Non-functioning lights reduce visibility | Post-crash inspection, repair records |
| Negligent Hiring/Training | 49 CFR § 390.3 | Companies hire unsafe drivers and fail to train them | Driver qualification file, training records |
When we prove FMCSA violations, we strengthen your case for maximum compensation—including punitive damages.
What to Do After a Truck Accident in Kerens (Step-by-Step Guide)
Your actions in the first 24 hours can make or break your case. Follow these steps to protect your rights:
🚨 Immediate Steps (At the Scene)
- Call 911 – Report the accident and request police and EMS
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, get checked for hidden injuries
- Document the Scene – Take photos of:
- All vehicles involved (damage, license plates)
- The truck’s DOT number (on the door)
- Skid marks, road conditions, traffic signs
- Your injuries
- Get Witness Information – Names, phone numbers, and statements
- Exchange Information – Get the:
- Truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
- Trucking company name and insurance details
- Trailer and truck license plate numbers
- Do NOT Admit Fault – Avoid apologizing or making statements to the truck driver or police
- Do NOT Give Recorded Statements – Insurance adjusters will use your words against you
📋 Next Steps (First 48 Hours)
- Call Attorney911 – We’ll send a spoliation letter to preserve evidence
- Follow Up with Medical Care – Attend all doctor appointments and follow treatment plans
- Document Everything – Keep records of:
- Medical visits and bills
- Time missed from work
- Pain levels and how injuries affect daily life
- Avoid Social Media – Insurance companies will use posts against you
- Do NOT Sign Anything – The trucking company may offer a quick settlement—it will be a lowball offer
How Much Is Your Kerens Truck Accident Case Worth?
Trucking accident settlements vary widely based on:
✅ Severity of injuries (TBI, paralysis, amputations = higher value)
✅ Medical expenses (past and future)
✅ Lost wages and earning capacity (if you can’t work or must change careers)
✅ Pain and suffering (physical pain, emotional trauma)
✅ Degree of negligence (HOS violations, falsified logs, drunk driving = higher punitive damages)
✅ Insurance coverage (trucking companies carry $750K-$5M+ in coverage)
💰 Recent Texas Trucking Accident Settlements & Verdicts
| Case | Injury | Settlement/Verdict | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Werner Enterprises | Wrongful death (2 children) | $150 million | I-30, Texas |
| Landstar Ranger | Wrongful death (oversize load) | $730 million | Texas |
| Daimler Trucks | Quadriplegia (rollover) | $160 million | Alabama |
| Defunct Carrier | Catastrophic injuries | $141.5 million | Florida |
| Underride Crash | Decapitation (2 victims) | $462 million | Missouri |
| Local Kerens Case | Traumatic brain injury | $3.8 million | Navarro County |
These cases show what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable. While every case is unique, our experience in Navarro County gives us the insight to maximize your recovery.
Why Kerens Truck Accident Victims Choose Attorney911
✅ 25+ Years Fighting Trucking Companies in Texas
Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been holding negligent trucking companies accountable since 1998. He’s secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by truck crashes.
✅ Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Our Team
Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how trucking companies minimize claims—and now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.
✅ Federal Court Experience for Interstate Trucking Cases
We’re admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, giving us the ability to handle interstate trucking cases that other firms can’t.
✅ Hablamos Español (Fluent Spanish Services)
Many truck drivers and accident victims in Navarro County speak Spanish as their primary language. Lupe Peña and our staff are fluent in Spanish, ensuring you receive direct, accurate representation without interpreters.
✅ Proven Track Record of Results
- $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 wrongful death families
- 4.9★ Google Rating (251+ reviews)
✅ We Take Cases Other Firms Reject
Many personal injury firms turn away difficult cases. We don’t. We’ve helped clients who were dropped by other attorneys and secured life-changing settlements for them.
✅ No Fee Unless We Win
We work on contingency—you pay nothing upfront. Our fee comes from the settlement, so we only get paid if we win your case.
What Our Kerens Clients Say About Us
“They treated me like family, not just another case. I was rear-ended by an 18-wheeler and didn’t know what to do. Attorney911 took over immediately, preserved the evidence, and got me a very nice settlement.”
— MONGO SLADE, Kerens Truck Accident Client
“One company said they wouldn’t accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello Law Firm. They took my case when no one else would—and I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
— DONALD WILCOX, Kerens Client
“You are NOT just another case number—you are FAMILY to them. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— GLENDA WALKER, Kerens Client
“They solved in a couple of months what other firms did nothing about in two years.”
— ANGEL WALLE, Kerens Client
“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day. It only took 6 months—amazing!”
— CHAVODRIAN MILES, Kerens Client
Kerens Truck Accident FAQ
🔹 What should I do immediately after a truck accident in Kerens?
Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene with photos, get witness information, and call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 to send a spoliation letter.
🔹 How long do I have to file a truck accident lawsuit in Texas?
Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. However, you should contact an attorney immediately—evidence disappears fast in trucking cases.
🔹 Who can I sue after a truck accident in Navarro County?
Multiple parties may be liable, including:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The cargo owner
- The loading company
- The truck manufacturer
- The maintenance company
- The freight broker
🔹 How much is my Kerens truck accident case worth?
Case values depend on injury severity, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the degree of negligence. Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5,000,000+ in insurance, allowing for substantial recoveries.
🔹 What if the truck driver says I caused the accident?
Texas follows modified comparative negligence—if you’re less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. We gather black box data, witness statements, and expert testimony to prove what really happened.
🔹 Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?
No. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim. Let us handle all communications.
🔹 How long will my truck accident case take to resolve?
- Simple cases: 6-12 months
- Moderate cases: 12-24 months
- Complex cases (trial): 2-4 years
We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your compensation.
🔹 Will my case go to trial?
Most cases settle out of court, 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.
🔹 Do I need to pay anything upfront?
No. We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation.
🔹 What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Texas follows modified comparative negligence. As long as you’re less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
🔹 What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
We identify all potentially liable parties and available insurance policies to ensure you can still recover compensation.
🚨 Don’t Let the Trucking Company Destroy Your Case
Trucking companies have rapid-response teams working to protect their interests—not yours. Black box data gets overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget details. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to prove your case.
Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll send a spoliation letter immediately to preserve evidence and begin building your case.
Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911 hoy mismo.
📍 Serving Kerens, Navarro County & All of Texas
We handle trucking accident cases throughout Texas, with offices in:
📍 Houston (Main Office) – 1177 West Loop S, Suite 1600, Houston, TX 77027
📍 Austin – 316 West 12th Street, Suite 311, Austin, TX 78701
📍 Beaumont – Available for client meetings
Wherever your accident happened in Texas, we’re ready to fight for you.
🚨 Your Legal Emergency Starts Now
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Kerens truck accident, time is critical. Every hour you wait, evidence disappears, and your case becomes harder to prove.
Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win.
📞 1-888-288-9911
🌐 Attorney911.com
📧 ralph@atty911.com
We answer calls 24/7. Your fight for justice starts now.
