18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Mineral Wells, Texas | Attorney911
Devastated by an 18-Wheeler Crash in Mineral Wells? We Fight for Justice
The moment an 80,000-pound truck collides with your vehicle on Mineral Wells’ highways, your life changes forever. The crushing impact, the chaos of emergency responders, the overwhelming medical bills—it’s a nightmare no one should face alone. At Attorney911, we understand the devastation of 18-wheeler accidents in Mineral Wells, and we’re here to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Our Mineral Wells truck accident attorneys have over 25 years of experience holding negligent trucking companies accountable. We know the tactics they use to minimize claims, and we know how to counter them. If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident on I-20, US-281, or any of Mineral Wells’ trucking corridors, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win.
Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in Mineral Wells Are Different
Mineral Wells sits at a critical crossroads for Texas trucking traffic. I-20 connects the city to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and beyond, while US-281 serves as a major north-south route for commercial freight. The Palo Pinto County area also sees heavy truck traffic from local industries, including oil and gas, agriculture, and manufacturing. With this volume of big rigs comes a higher risk of catastrophic accidents.
The Physics of a Truck Crash: Why Injuries Are So Severe
- A fully loaded 18-wheeler weighs 20-25 times more than the average passenger car.
- At highway speeds, an 80,000-pound truck requires 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields.
- The force of impact in a truck collision is exponentially greater than in a car accident, leading to life-altering injuries or wrongful death.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Mineral Wells
Trucking accidents rarely happen by chance. They’re often the result of negligence, recklessness, or outright violations of federal safety regulations. Our Mineral Wells truck accident lawyers investigate every case to uncover the truth, including:
1. Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)
Federal law limits truck drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty. However, many drivers—and their employers—ignore these rules to meet tight deadlines. Fatigued driving is a leading cause of truck crashes, impairing reaction time and decision-making.
FMCSA Violations We Investigate:
- 49 CFR § 395.3 – 11-hour driving limit
- 49 CFR § 395.5 – 14-hour duty window
- 49 CFR § 395.8 – Electronic Logging Device (ELD) requirements
2. Distracted Driving
Truck drivers face constant distractions, from cell phones and dispatch communications to in-cab electronics. Federal law prohibits hand-held phone use while driving, but many drivers ignore this rule.
FMCSA Violations We Investigate:
- 49 CFR § 392.82 – Prohibition on hand-held mobile phone use
- 49 CFR § 392.80 – Texting while driving ban
3. Improper Cargo Securement
Improperly loaded or secured cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable and leading to rollovers, jackknifes, or cargo spills.
FMCSA Violations We Investigate:
- 49 CFR § 393.100-136 – Cargo securement standards
- 49 CFR § 393.102 – Performance criteria for securement systems
4. Brake Failures & Poor Maintenance
Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes. Trucking companies often defer maintenance to save money, putting everyone on the road at risk.
FMCSA Violations We Investigate:
- 49 CFR § 393.40-55 – Brake system requirements
- 49 CFR § 396.3 – Systematic inspection and maintenance
5. Tire Blowouts
Truck tires endure extreme stress, and underinflation, overloading, or manufacturing defects can cause catastrophic blowouts. A steer tire blowout (front tire) can cause the driver to lose control instantly.
FMCSA Violations We Investigate:
- 49 CFR § 393.75 – Tire condition and tread depth requirements
6. Underride Collisions
When a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of a trailer and slides underneath, the results are often fatal. Federal law requires rear underride guards, but side underride guards are not mandatory, leaving drivers vulnerable.
FMCSA Violations We Investigate:
- 49 CFR § 393.86 – Rear impact guard requirements
7. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)
Trucks need extra space to make turns, and drivers often swing wide before turning right. This creates a dangerous gap that smaller vehicles may try to enter, only to be crushed when the truck completes its turn.
8. Blind Spot Collisions (“No-Zone”)
Trucks have four massive blind spots where the driver cannot see other vehicles. The right-side blind spot is the most dangerous, extending 20 feet behind the cab.
Catastrophic Injuries in Mineral Wells Truck Accidents
The sheer size and weight of 18-wheelers mean that accidents often result in life-changing injuries. At Attorney911, we’ve represented Mineral Wells families devastated by:
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Symptoms: Headaches, memory loss, confusion, mood changes, seizures
- Long-Term Impact: Permanent cognitive impairment, inability to work, need for lifelong care
- Settlement Range: $1.5 million – $10 million+
Spinal Cord Injuries & Paralysis
- Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs (requires 24/7 care)
- Paraplegia: Loss of function in the lower body (may still require lifelong assistance)
- Settlement Range: $4.7 million – $25 million+
Amputations
- Traumatic Amputations: Limbs severed in the crash
- Surgical Amputations: Limbs removed due to severe damage or infection
- Settlement Range: $1.9 million – $8.6 million
Severe Burns
- Causes: Fuel tank ruptures, hazmat spills, electrical fires
- Long-Term Impact: Multiple surgeries, permanent scarring, psychological trauma
- Settlement Range: $500,000 – $10 million+
Internal Organ Damage
- Common Injuries: Liver lacerations, spleen ruptures, kidney damage, internal bleeding
- Danger: Symptoms may not appear immediately, leading to delayed treatment
Wrongful Death
- Damages Available: Lost income, loss of companionship, funeral expenses, punitive damages
- Settlement Range: $1.9 million – $15 million+
Who Is Liable for Your Mineral Wells Truck Accident?
Unlike car accidents, multiple parties may be responsible for an 18-wheeler crash. Our Mineral Wells truck accident lawyers investigate every possible defendant to maximize your compensation:
| Liable Party | Potential Liability |
|---|---|
| Truck Driver | Speeding, fatigue, distraction, impairment, failure to inspect vehicle |
| Trucking Company | Negligent hiring, inadequate training, pressuring drivers to violate HOS, poor maintenance |
| Cargo Owner/Shipper | Improper loading instructions, failure to disclose hazardous cargo |
| Loading Company | Improper cargo securement, overloading, unbalanced loads |
| Truck/Trailer Manufacturer | Defective brakes, tires, steering, or safety systems (product liability) |
| Parts Manufacturer | Defective components (e.g., brake pads, couplings) |
| Maintenance Company | Negligent repairs, failure to identify critical issues |
| Freight Broker | Negligent selection of unsafe carriers |
| Government Entity | Dangerous road design, poor signage, failure to maintain highways |
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Mineral Wells Truck Accident Case?
1. We Have Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics
Our team 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 claims—because he used to do it. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.
“Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who 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.”
2. We Send Spoliation Letters Immediately to Preserve Evidence
Evidence disappears fast in trucking cases. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days, dashcam footage deleted in 7-14 days, and maintenance records destroyed. We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to demand preservation of all evidence, including:
- ECM/Black Box Data (speed, braking, throttle position)
- ELD Records (hours of service, fatigue violations)
- Driver Qualification File (hiring negligence, training gaps)
- Maintenance Records (deferred repairs, known defects)
- Cell Phone Records (distracted driving evidence)
- Dashcam Footage (video of the accident)
3. We Have a Proven Track Record of Multi-Million Dollar Results
Our Mineral Wells truck accident lawyers have secured millions in compensation for victims of 18-wheeler crashes, including:
- $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
- $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement
- $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
- Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases
4. We’re Local to Mineral Wells and Know Texas Trucking Laws
We’re not just Texas attorneys—we’re Mineral Wells attorneys. We know:
- The trucking corridors that serve Mineral Wells (I-20, US-281, FM-4)
- The local courts and judges in Palo Pinto County
- The industries that generate heavy truck traffic in the area (oil and gas, agriculture, manufacturing)
- The unique challenges of trucking cases in Texas, including comparative negligence laws
5. We Handle Cases on Contingency—You Pay Nothing Unless We Win
We understand that after a trucking accident, medical bills pile up and income stops. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we recover compensation for you.
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Mineral Wells
Step 1: Call 911 and Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, adrenaline masks pain, and some injuries (like internal bleeding or TBI) may not show symptoms immediately. Go to the hospital—this creates critical medical records linking your injuries to the crash.
Step 2: Document the Scene (If You’re Able)
- Take photos and videos of:
- Vehicle damage (all vehicles involved)
- Skid marks, debris, and road conditions
- Injuries (bruises, cuts, swelling)
- Truck and trailer (license plates, DOT number, company name)
- Traffic signs and signals
- Get contact information from:
- The truck driver
- Witnesses
- Responding police officers
Step 3: Do NOT Give a Recorded Statement to Insurance
Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize your claim. They’ll ask leading questions to get you to say things that hurt your case. Politely decline and tell them you’ll have your attorney contact them.
Step 4: Call Attorney911 Immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911
The sooner you call, the stronger your case. We’ll:
- Send a spoliation letter to preserve evidence
- Launch an independent investigation
- Handle all communications with insurance companies
- Connect you with medical specialists to document your injuries
Mineral Wells Trucking Corridors: Where Accidents Happen
Mineral Wells is a hub for trucking traffic, with major routes that see heavy commercial freight:
I-20 (East-West Corridor)
- Connects Mineral Wells to Fort Worth, Dallas, and East Texas
- High volume of long-haul truckers transporting goods across the country
- Common accident types: Rear-end collisions, jackknifes, tire blowouts
US-281 (North-South Corridor)
- Runs through Mineral Wells, Jacksboro, and Wichita Falls
- Heavy truck traffic from oil and gas, agriculture, and manufacturing
- Common accident types: Wide turn accidents, blind spot collisions, rollovers
FM-4 (Local Trucking Route)
- Connects Mineral Wells to Palo Pinto, Graford, and Possum Kingdom Lake
- Used by local delivery trucks, oilfield equipment haulers, and agricultural vehicles
- Common accident types: Cargo spills, brake failures, intersection collisions
High-Risk Areas in Mineral Wells
- I-20 at US-281 interchange (high congestion, merging traffic)
- US-281 at FM-4 (intersection with heavy truck and local traffic)
- Downtown Mineral Wells (narrow streets, delivery trucks, pedestrians)
How We Prove Negligence in Your Mineral Wells Truck Accident Case
Winning your case requires proving that the trucking company or driver was negligent. Our Mineral Wells truck accident lawyers use a multi-pronged approach to build an airtight case:
1. Black Box Data Analysis
- What it shows: Speed, braking, throttle position, GPS location
- Why it matters: Proves speeding, delayed braking, or fatigue violations
2. Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Records
- What it shows: Driver’s hours of service, rest breaks, duty status
- Why it matters: Proves fatigue violations (e.g., driving beyond 11-hour limit)
3. Driver Qualification File Review
- What it shows: Hiring practices, background checks, training records
- Why it matters: Proves negligent hiring (e.g., hiring a driver with a history of DUIs)
4. Maintenance and Inspection Records
- What it shows: Brake adjustments, tire replacements, repair history
- Why it matters: Proves deferred maintenance (e.g., ignored brake warnings)
5. Cell Phone and Dispatch Records
- What it shows: Text messages, calls, dispatch communications
- Why it matters: Proves distracted driving or pressure to violate HOS
6. Accident Reconstruction
- What it shows: Speed, braking distance, impact forces
- Why it matters: Proves who was at fault and how the crash happened
7. Expert Witness Testimony
- Medical Experts: Document the full extent of your injuries
- Vocational Experts: Calculate lost earning capacity
- Economic Experts: Determine lifetime care costs
Texas Statute of Limitations for Truck Accidents
In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, you should never wait—evidence disappears quickly, and the sooner we start building your case, the stronger it will be.
Exceptions:
- Government entities (e.g., TxDOT) may have shorter notice requirements (as little as 6 months).
- Minors have until their 18th birthday + 2 years to file a claim.
- Wrongful death claims must be filed within 2 years of the date of death.
What Is Your Mineral Wells Truck Accident Case Worth?
Every case is unique, but our Mineral Wells truck accident lawyers have recovered millions for clients with injuries like yours. Factors that affect your case value include:
| Factor | How It Affects Your Case |
|---|---|
| Severity of Injuries | Catastrophic injuries (TBI, paralysis, amputation) result in higher settlements |
| Medical Expenses | Past, present, and future medical costs are fully compensable |
| Lost Wages | Lost income and reduced earning capacity are recoverable |
| Pain and Suffering | Non-economic damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life |
| Degree of Negligence | Gross negligence (e.g., falsified logs, drunk driving) can lead to punitive damages |
| Insurance Coverage | Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million+ in liability insurance |
Texas Truck Accident Settlement Ranges
| Injury Type | Settlement Range |
|---|---|
| Soft Tissue Injuries | $15,000 – $60,000 |
| Herniated Disc (Non-Surgical) | $50,000 – $200,000 |
| Herniated Disc (Surgery Required) | $346,000 – $1.2 million |
| Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate-Severe) | $1.5 million – $10 million+ |
| Spinal Cord Injury (Paraplegia) | $4.7 million – $25 million+ |
| Amputation | $1.9 million – $8.6 million |
| Wrongful Death | $1.9 million – $15 million+ |
Frequently Asked Questions About Mineral Wells Truck Accidents
1. What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Mineral Wells?
- Call 911 and report the accident
- Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine
- Document the scene with photos and videos
- Get the truck driver’s information (name, CDL number, trucking company)
- Collect witness contact information
- Do NOT give a recorded statement to insurance
- Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911
2. Who can I sue after a truck accident in Mineral Wells?
Multiple parties may be liable, including:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The cargo owner
- The loading company
- The truck or parts manufacturer
- The maintenance company
- The freight broker
3. How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a truck accident in Texas?
You have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, evidence disappears quickly, so you should contact an attorney immediately.
4. What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you’re less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Our Mineral Wells truck accident lawyers will investigate thoroughly to prove the truck driver’s negligence.
5. How much is my truck accident case worth?
Case values depend on:
- The severity of your injuries
- Your medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- The degree of the trucking company’s negligence
- Available insurance coverage
6. 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 we’re willing to go to court—and that gives us leverage in negotiations.
7. How long will my case take to resolve?
- Simple cases: 6-12 months
- Complex cases with severe injuries: 1-3 years
- Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years
8. Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?
No. We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation.
9. What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
We investigate all possible sources of compensation, including:
- The trucking company’s insurance
- The driver’s personal insurance
- Umbrella policies
- Other liable parties (e.g., cargo owner, manufacturer)
10. Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Texas follows modified comparative negligence. As long as you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
“If you’re found partially at fault in a ‘he said-she said’ accident, does that mean you lose your settlement? Not necessarily. Attorney Ralph Manginello breaks down how comparative negligence works and what you may still be entitled to—even if fault is shared.”
— Attorney911
Mineral Wells Truck Accident Resources
Local Hospitals & Trauma Centers
-
Palo Pinto General Hospital (Mineral Wells)
📍 400 SW 25th Ave, Mineral Wells, TX 76067
📞 (940) 325-7831 -
Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center – Fort Worth
📍 1400 8th Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104
📍 (Level II Trauma Center)
📞 (817) 926-2544
Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)
- TxDOT Mineral Wells District Office
📍 1001 N Oak Ave, Mineral Wells, TX 76067
📞 (940) 325-6151
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
- FMCSA Safety Violations Database: safer.fmcsa.dot.gov
- FMCSA Crash Data: ai.fmcsa.dot.gov
Don’t Wait—Call Attorney911 Now
Every hour you wait, evidence in your Mineral Wells truck accident case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten, dashcam footage deleted, and witnesses forget what they saw. The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect their interests—you deserve the same level of representation.
Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a Free Consultation
- Available 24/7 – We answer trucking accident calls immediately
- No Fee Unless We Win – You pay nothing upfront
- Local Mineral Wells Attorneys – We know Texas trucking laws
- Insider Knowledge – Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney
Hablamos Español
At Attorney911, we understand that many trucking accident victims in Mineral Wells speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.
“Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.”
Client Testimonials: Why Mineral Wells Families Trust Attorney911
“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
“One of Houston’s Great Men Trae Tha Truth has recommended this law firm. So if he is vouching for them then I know they do good work.”
— Jacqueline Johnson, Attorney911 Client
“Ralph reached out personally.”
— Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client
Contact Attorney911 Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Mineral Wells, don’t wait—call us now. We’ll fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 attorney911.com
Offices Serving Mineral Wells:
📍 Houston | 1177 West Loop S, Suite 1600, Houston, TX 77027
📍 Austin | 316 West 12th Street, Suite 311, Austin, TX 78701-1844
📍 Beaumont | Available for client meetings
Free Consultation • No Fee Unless We Win • Hablamos Español