18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Tatum, Texas

If you’ve been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Tatum, Texas, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. The physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial uncertainty can feel overwhelming. At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through. Our team of experienced trucking accident attorneys has been fighting for injury victims across East Texas for over 25 years, and we’re here to help you navigate this difficult time.

Why Tatum’s Highways Are Particularly Dangerous for Trucking Accidents

Tatum sits at the intersection of several critical trucking corridors that serve the East Texas region. The area’s proximity to major oil and gas operations, timber industries, and agricultural centers means our roads see heavy commercial truck traffic daily. Here’s what makes Tatum’s trucking environment unique:

• Highway 43 (US 43): This north-south route connects Tatum to Marshall and Longview, carrying significant freight traffic including oilfield equipment and agricultural products. The two-lane sections can be particularly hazardous when large trucks attempt to pass slower vehicles.

• State Highway 149: Running east-west through Tatum, this highway serves as an important connector for local industries. The mix of local traffic and commercial vehicles creates dangerous conditions, especially at intersections with limited visibility.

• FM 839 and FM 31: These farm-to-market roads carry heavy truck traffic from local industries, often with vehicles that are overloaded or improperly secured. The rural nature of these roads means limited shoulders and emergency services.

• Oilfield traffic: Tatum’s location in the East Texas Oil Field means constant movement of heavy equipment, tanker trucks, and specialized vehicles. These trucks often operate on tight schedules, increasing the risk of fatigue-related accidents.

• Timber industry: The area’s timber operations generate significant log truck traffic, which can be particularly dangerous due to the long, heavy loads and the rural roads they travel.

The combination of these factors makes Tatum’s roads especially hazardous for passenger vehicles sharing the road with large commercial trucks. When accidents happen, they’re often catastrophic due to the size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers and passenger cars.

What Makes 18-Wheeler Accidents Different from Car Accidents

When you’re hit by an 18-wheeler, it’s not just a bigger car accident – it’s a fundamentally different type of collision with unique legal and medical implications:

The Physics of Truck Accidents

• Weight disparity: A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds – that’s 20-25 times heavier than your average passenger car. This means the impact forces are exponentially greater.

• Stopping distance: At 65 mph, an 18-wheeler needs approximately 525 feet to come to a complete stop – nearly two football fields. A passenger car needs only about 300 feet. This 40% longer stopping distance means trucks can’t avoid obstacles as quickly as cars.

• Height and clearance: The elevated position of truck trailers creates unique dangers:

  • Underride collisions where passenger vehicles slide underneath trailers
  • Cargo spills that can strike following vehicles
  • Blind spots that make it difficult for truck drivers to see smaller vehicles

The Legal Complexity

Unlike typical car accidents where you’re usually dealing with one driver and one insurance company, trucking accidents involve:

• Multiple liable parties: The driver, trucking company, cargo owner, maintenance provider, manufacturer, and others may all share responsibility.

• Federal regulations: The trucking industry is governed by complex federal safety regulations (FMCSA) that create additional avenues for proving negligence.

• Higher insurance limits: Trucking companies carry much higher insurance coverage ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), which means there’s more compensation available for serious injuries.

• Aggressive defense: Trucking companies have rapid-response legal teams and investigators who arrive at accident scenes quickly to protect their interests.

The Medical Reality

Trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries that require specialized medical care:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): The extreme forces involved often cause severe head trauma, even when airbags deploy.

• Spinal cord injuries: These can result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong medical care.

• Crush injuries: The weight of trucks can cause severe crushing injuries to limbs and internal organs.

• Burn injuries: Fuel tank ruptures and cargo fires create significant burn risks.

• Multiple trauma: Victims often suffer numerous injuries simultaneously, requiring coordinated care from multiple specialists.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Tatum

Understanding the specific causes of trucking accidents in our area helps us build stronger cases for our clients. Here are the most common causes we see in Tatum and Rusk County:

1. Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Truck drivers are under immense pressure to meet tight delivery deadlines, and this pressure often leads to dangerous fatigue. Federal regulations limit driving time to prevent fatigue-related accidents, but these rules are frequently violated.

Common violations we see in Tatum:

• Exceeding the 11-hour driving limit: Drivers are limited to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, but we often find drivers pushing beyond this limit to meet delivery schedules.

• Violating the 14-hour duty window: Drivers cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty, but we’ve seen cases where drivers work 16+ hours straight.

• Skipping required breaks: Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving, but this requirement is often ignored.

• Falsifying logbooks: Even with electronic logging devices (ELDs), some drivers still find ways to manipulate their hours.

Why this matters in Tatum:
The rural nature of our roads means drivers may feel pressured to keep going when they should be resting. The oilfield and timber industries often operate on tight schedules, creating incentives for drivers to push beyond safe limits.

“In one recent case, we represented a family whose loved one was killed when a fatigued truck driver fell asleep at the wheel on Highway 43. The ELD data showed he had been driving for 16 consecutive hours – a clear violation of federal regulations. The trucking company had been pressuring him to make an unrealistic delivery deadline.”

2. Improper Cargo Loading and Securement

Improperly loaded or secured cargo is a major hazard on Tatum’s roads. When cargo shifts during transit, it can cause the truck to become unstable and lead to rollover accidents, jackknifes, or cargo spills.

Common cargo-related issues:

• Overloaded trailers: Exceeding weight limits makes trucks harder to control and increases stopping distances.

• Uneven weight distribution: Poorly distributed cargo can make trucks unstable, especially on curves or when making sudden maneuvers.

• Inadequate tiedowns: Using too few tiedowns or tiedowns that aren’t strong enough for the load.

• Improper blocking and bracing: Failing to properly block and brace cargo to prevent movement.

• Hazardous material spills: Improperly secured hazmat cargo can create additional dangers.

Why this matters in Tatum:
Our local industries create unique cargo hazards:

• Oilfield equipment: Heavy, irregularly shaped loads that require specialized securement
• Timber: Long logs that can shift dangerously if not properly secured
• Agricultural products: Bulk loads that can shift during transit

3. Brake Failures and Maintenance Neglect

Brake failures are a leading cause of trucking accidents, and they’re almost always preventable with proper maintenance. In our experience, many trucking companies cut corners on maintenance to save money.

Common brake-related issues:

• Worn brake pads/shoes: Not replacing brake components when they’re worn beyond safe limits.

• Improper brake adjustment: Failing to adjust brakes to the proper specifications, reducing stopping power.

• Brake system leaks: Air brake systems can fail if there are leaks in the system.

• Brake fade: Overheated brakes lose effectiveness, especially on long downhill stretches.

• Deferred maintenance: Putting off critical brake repairs to save money.

Why this matters in Tatum:
The hilly terrain in parts of Rusk County creates additional brake hazards. Long descents can cause brake fade, and the rural nature of our roads means trucks may go longer between inspections.

4. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is dangerous for any driver, but when an 80,000-pound truck is involved, the consequences can be catastrophic. Truck drivers face unique distractions:

• Cell phone use: Texting, talking, or using navigation apps while driving.

• Dispatch communications: Many trucks have onboard communication systems that can distract drivers.

• In-cab electronics: GPS devices, tablets, and other electronic devices.

• Eating and drinking: Many drivers eat meals while driving to save time.

• External distractions: Looking at billboards, scenery, or other vehicles.

Why this matters in Tatum:
The rural nature of our roads might seem less distracting, but the long stretches of highway can actually increase the temptation for drivers to engage in distracting behaviors to combat boredom.

5. Speeding and Reckless Driving

Speeding is particularly dangerous for large trucks because:

• It increases stopping distance
• It makes trucks more difficult to control
• It increases the severity of crashes
• It makes rollovers more likely

Common speed-related issues:

• Exceeding posted speed limits: Especially dangerous on rural roads with lower speed limits.

• Failing to reduce speed for conditions: Not slowing down for curves, hills, or adverse weather.

• Aggressive driving: Tailgating, unsafe lane changes, and other aggressive maneuvers.

Why this matters in Tatum:
Many of our roads have lower speed limits than the highways drivers are used to. The mix of local traffic and commercial vehicles creates additional hazards when trucks don’t adjust their speed appropriately.

6. Drug and Alcohol Impairment

While less common than other causes, drug and alcohol impairment still contributes to trucking accidents. The FMCSA has strict regulations prohibiting truck drivers from:

• Using alcohol within 4 hours of going on duty
• Having any alcohol in their system while on duty
• Using controlled substances (with limited exceptions for prescription medications)

Why this matters in Tatum:
The oilfield and timber industries sometimes have cultures that tolerate substance use, creating additional risks on our roads.

7. Inexperienced or Poorly Trained Drivers

The trucking industry faces a significant driver shortage, which sometimes leads to companies hiring inexperienced drivers or failing to provide adequate training.

Common training-related issues:

• Inadequate training on vehicle operation: Not properly training drivers on how to handle large trucks.

• Insufficient safety training: Not teaching drivers how to recognize and respond to hazards.

• Poor cargo securement training: Not properly training drivers on how to secure different types of cargo.

• Inadequate hours of service training: Not teaching drivers how to comply with federal regulations.

Why this matters in Tatum:
Local trucking companies may be more likely to hire inexperienced drivers due to the driver shortage, increasing the risk of accidents.

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Tatum Trucking Accidents

The extreme forces involved in 18-wheeler accidents often result in catastrophic injuries that change lives forever. Here are the most common types of injuries we see in Tatum trucking accident cases:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

TBI is one of the most common and devastating injuries in trucking accidents. The sudden impact can cause the brain to collide with the inside of the skull, resulting in:

• Mild TBI (Concussion): May cause temporary confusion, headaches, and memory problems. While often considered “mild,” these injuries can have lasting effects.

• Moderate TBI: Can cause extended periods of unconsciousness, memory loss, and cognitive deficits. Many victims require extensive rehabilitation.

• Severe TBI: Often results in extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment, and the need for lifelong care. Some victims never regain consciousness.

Common TBI symptoms:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory loss and confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes and depression
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
• Speech difficulties
• Personality changes

Long-term consequences:

• Permanent cognitive impairment
• Inability to return to work
• Need for ongoing care and supervision
• Increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
• Depression and emotional disorders

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Spinal cord injuries are among the most devastating consequences of trucking accidents. Damage to the spinal cord can disrupt communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of paralysis:

• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist, affecting the legs and often bladder/bowel control.

• Quadriplegia (Tetraplegia): Loss of function in all four limbs. Higher injuries may require breathing assistance.

• Incomplete injury: Some nerve function remains below the injury site, allowing for some sensation or movement.

• Complete injury: No nerve function below the injury site, resulting in total loss of sensation and movement.

Level of injury matters:

• Cervical (neck) injuries (C1-C8): Higher injuries affect more body functions. C1-C4 injuries may require ventilator support.
• Thoracic injuries (T1-T12): Affect the chest and abdominal muscles. Arm function is usually preserved.
• Lumbar injuries (L1-L5): Affect the legs but not the arms.
• Sacral injuries (S1-S5): Affect the hips, thighs, and pelvic organs.

Lifetime care costs:

• Paraplegia: $1.1 million to $2.5 million+
• Quadriplegia: $3.5 million to $5 million+
• These figures represent direct medical costs only – not lost wages, pain and suffering, or loss of quality of life.

Amputations

Amputations can occur in several ways during trucking accidents:

• Traumatic amputation: The limb is severed at the scene due to crash forces.

• Surgical amputation: The limb is so severely damaged that it must be surgically removed.

• Crush injuries: Severe crushing can lead to infection requiring amputation.

Ongoing medical needs:

• Initial surgery and hospitalization
• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ per prosthetic)
• Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Occupational therapy for daily living skills
• Psychological counseling for trauma and body image issues

Severe Burns

Burns are a significant risk in trucking accidents due to:

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

Burn classification:

• First-degree: Affects only the outer layer of skin (epidermis). Heals without scarring.

• Second-degree: Affects both the epidermis and dermis. May scar and may require skin grafts.

• Third-degree: Full thickness burns that destroy both layers of skin. Require skin grafts and result in permanent scarring.

• Fourth-degree: Burns that extend through skin to muscle and bone. Often require multiple surgeries and may result in amputation.

Long-term consequences:

• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Multiple reconstructive surgeries
• Chronic pain
• Increased infection risk
• Psychological trauma

Internal Organ Damage

The extreme forces in trucking accidents can cause severe internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent:

• Liver laceration or rupture: Can cause life-threatening internal bleeding.

• Spleen damage: Often requires surgical removal, affecting immune function.

• Kidney damage: Can lead to kidney failure.

• Lung contusion or collapse (pneumothorax): Can cause breathing difficulties.

• Internal bleeding (hemorrhage): Can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.

• Bowel and intestinal damage: Can lead to infection and require surgical repair.

Why these injuries are dangerous:

• Symptoms may not appear immediately
• Internal bleeding can be life-threatening
• Organ removal affects long-term health
• Multiple organ damage is common in severe accidents

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can pursue wrongful death claims. These cases are among the most heartbreaking we handle, but they’re also some of the most important for holding negligent trucking companies accountable.

Who can bring a wrongful death claim in Texas:

• Surviving spouse
• Children (minor and adult)
• Parents (especially if no spouse or children exist)
• Estate representative

Types of damages available:

• Economic damages:

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

• Non-economic damages:

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

• Punitive damages: In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct

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

How We Prove Negligence in Tatum Trucking Accidents

Proving negligence in an 18-wheeler accident case requires a thorough investigation and deep knowledge of federal trucking regulations. Here’s how we build strong cases for our Tatum clients:

1. Preserving Critical Evidence

Evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. We act fast to preserve:

• Electronic Control Module (ECM) data: This “black box” records speed, braking, throttle position, and other critical data that can prove what happened in the moments before the crash.

• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records: These federally mandated devices record driver hours of service, proving whether the driver was fatigued.

• GPS and telematics data: Shows the truck’s route, speed, and location history.

• Dashcam footage: If the truck was equipped with cameras, this footage can provide crucial evidence.

• Cell phone records: Can prove distracted driving if the driver was using their phone.

• The physical truck and trailer: We inspect the vehicle for defects and maintenance issues.

Why this is critical in Tatum:
Trucking companies often try to destroy or “lose” evidence after accidents. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this crucial data before it’s lost forever.

2. Investigating Federal Regulation Violations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the trucking industry. When trucking companies violate these regulations, it creates strong evidence of negligence.

Key regulations we investigate:

3. Analyzing the Driver Qualification File

Every trucking company must maintain a Driver Qualification (DQ) File for each driver. This file contains critical information about the driver’s background and qualifications.

What we look for in DQ files:

• Employment application: Did the company properly screen the driver?

• Driving record: Did the driver have a history of violations or accidents?

• Previous employer verification: Did the company properly investigate the driver’s work history?

• Medical certification: Was the driver medically qualified to drive?

• Drug and alcohol test results: Did the driver have a history of substance abuse?

• Training records: Was the driver properly trained?

Why this matters in Tatum:
If we can show the trucking company failed to properly screen or train the driver, we can prove negligent hiring – a powerful claim that often results in significant compensation.

4. Reviewing Maintenance and Inspection Records

Proper maintenance is critical for truck safety. We thoroughly review:

• Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports: Did the driver properly inspect the vehicle?

• Annual inspection records: Did the truck pass its required annual inspection?

• Maintenance work orders: Were known issues properly repaired?

• Brake adjustment records: Were brakes properly maintained and adjusted?

• Tire records: Were tires properly inflated and replaced when worn?

Why this matters in Tatum:
Many trucking companies defer maintenance to save money. When we find evidence of deferred maintenance, it proves the company prioritized profits over safety.

5. Examining Cargo Loading and Securement

Improper cargo loading is a major cause of trucking accidents. We investigate:

• Bill of lading: What cargo was being transported?

• Loading instructions: Were proper loading procedures followed?

• Weight distribution: Was the cargo properly distributed?

• Securement methods: Were proper tiedowns used?

• Loading company records: Who was responsible for loading the cargo?

Why this matters in Tatum:
Our local industries (oil, timber, agriculture) create unique cargo hazards. Improperly secured oilfield equipment, logs, or agricultural products can shift during transit, causing rollovers or cargo spills.

6. Reconstructing the Accident

We work with accident reconstruction experts to determine exactly what happened. This involves:

• Analyzing skid marks and debris patterns: What do these tell us about the vehicles’ movements?

• Reviewing ECM and ELD data: What was the truck’s speed, braking, and throttle position?

• Examining vehicle damage: What does the damage pattern tell us about the collision?

• Interviewing witnesses: What did they see and hear?

• Reviewing police reports: What did the investigating officer determine?

Why this matters in Tatum:
Accident reconstruction helps us prove exactly what happened and who was at fault. This is especially important in cases where the trucking company is trying to blame the victim.

7. Identifying All Liable Parties

In trucking cases, multiple parties may share responsibility. We investigate all potential defendants:

• The truck driver: For negligent driving, fatigue, distraction, or impairment.

• The trucking company: For negligent hiring, training, supervision, or maintenance.

• The cargo owner: For improper loading instructions or failure to disclose hazardous cargo.

• The loading company: For improper cargo securement.

• The truck manufacturer: For defective vehicles or components.

• The parts manufacturer: For defective brakes, tires, or other components.

• The maintenance company: For negligent repairs.

• The freight broker: For negligent carrier selection.

• Government entities: For dangerous road conditions.

Why this matters in Tatum:
Identifying all liable parties increases the available insurance coverage and improves your chances of full compensation.

The Attorney911 Advantage: Why We’re Different

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team with specialized expertise and a track record of success. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:

1. Our Managing Partner’s 25+ Years of Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. His experience includes:

• Multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements 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
• Deep knowledge of FMCSA regulations and how to use them to prove negligence

“Ralph reached out personally to check on me after my accident. That kind of personal attention makes all the difference when you’re going through something this traumatic.”
— Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client

2. Our Former Insurance Defense Attorney

Our team includes Lupe Peña, an associate attorney who spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. This gives us an insider’s perspective on how insurance companies evaluate and defend trucking accident claims.

How this helps your case:

• We know exactly how insurance companies train their adjusters to minimize claims
• We understand the software they use to calculate claim values
• We know when they’re bluffing and when they’re serious about settling
• We can anticipate and counter their defense strategies

“Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies minimize trucking accident claims—and now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.”

3. Our Aggressive Evidence Preservation Protocol

We move fast to preserve evidence before it’s lost or destroyed:

• Spoliation letters: We send formal legal notices within 24-48 hours demanding preservation of all evidence.

• Black box data download: We demand immediate download of ECM and ELD data before it’s overwritten.

• Vehicle inspection: We inspect the truck and trailer before they’re repaired or scrapped.

• Witness interviews: We interview witnesses while their memories are fresh.

• Scene documentation: We document the accident scene before conditions change.

Why this matters in Tatum:
Trucking companies often try to destroy or “lose” evidence after accidents. Our rapid response ensures critical evidence is preserved.

4. Our Proven Track Record of Results

While past results don’t guarantee future outcomes, our track record demonstrates our ability to fight and win against trucking companies:

• $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

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

5. Our Personalized Approach

We treat every client like family. Unlike large firms where you’re just a case number, we provide:

• Direct attorney access: You’ll work directly with our attorneys, not just paralegals.

• Regular communication: We keep you updated on your case’s progress.

• Compassionate representation: We understand the emotional toll of catastrophic injuries.

• 24/7 availability: We’re here when you need us, not just during business hours.

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

6. Our Spanish-Language Services

Many trucking accident victims in Tatum speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, allowing us to provide direct representation without interpreters.

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

7. Our Contingency Fee Structure

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

• No upfront costs: We advance all investigation and litigation expenses.

• No risk to you: If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.

• Aligned interests: We only get paid if we recover compensation for you.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Tatum

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Tatum, here’s what to do in the critical hours and days after the crash:

At the Scene

1. Call 911 immediately: Report the accident and request medical assistance.

2. Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked out. Many injuries don’t show symptoms immediately.

3. Document the scene: If you’re able, take photos and videos of:

   • All vehicles involved (from multiple angles)
   • The accident scene (road conditions, skid marks, debris)
   • Your injuries
   • Street signs and traffic signals
   • Weather conditions

4. Get information from the truck driver:

   • Name and contact information
   • Commercial driver’s license (CDL) number
   • Trucking company name and contact information
   • Insurance information
   • Truck and trailer license plate numbers

5. Collect witness information: Get names and contact information from any witnesses.

6. Do NOT give recorded statements: Insurance adjusters will try to contact you quickly. Do not give any statements without consulting an attorney.

In the Days Following the Accident

1. Follow up with medical care: Attend all follow-up appointments and follow your doctor’s recommendations.

2. Document everything:

   • Keep a journal of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life
   • Save all medical records and bills
   • Document time missed from work
   • Save receipts for all accident-related expenses

3. Contact an attorney immediately: The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can begin preserving evidence and building your case.

4. Do NOT post on social media: Insurance companies will use your posts against you.

5. Do NOT accept early settlement offers: These are almost always lowball offers designed to pay you far less than your case is worth.

Why Time Is Critical

Evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly:

• ECM/Black box data: Can be overwritten in as little as 30 days
• ELD records: May be retained for only 6 months
• Dashcam footage: Often deleted within 7-14 days
• Witness memories: Fade significantly within weeks
• Physical evidence: Vehicles may be repaired, sold, or scrapped

“Every hour you wait, evidence in your Tatum 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.”

The Legal Process: What to Expect

When you hire Attorney911 to handle your Tatum trucking accident case, here’s what you can expect:

1. Free Initial Consultation

We’ll meet with you to discuss your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options. This consultation is completely free and confidential.

2. Case Investigation

We’ll immediately begin investigating your case:

• Evidence preservation: We’ll send spoliation letters to preserve all evidence.
• Accident reconstruction: We’ll work with experts to determine exactly what happened.
• Regulation violations: We’ll identify any FMCSA violations that prove negligence.
• Liable parties: We’ll identify all potentially responsible parties.

3. Medical Treatment and Documentation

We’ll help you get the medical care you need and ensure all your injuries are properly documented. This includes:

• Connecting you with appropriate medical specialists
• Arranging treatment even if you don’t have insurance
• Ensuring all your injuries are properly documented

4. Demand Letter

Once your medical treatment is complete, we’ll prepare a comprehensive demand letter to the trucking company’s insurance company. This letter will detail:

• The facts of the accident
• The negligence of the trucking company and driver
• The extent of your injuries
• Your medical treatment
• Your economic damages (medical bills, lost wages)
• Your non-economic damages (pain and suffering)
• The compensation you’re seeking

5. Negotiation

We’ll negotiate aggressively with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement. Our goal is to resolve your case as quickly as possible while maximizing your compensation.

6. Litigation (If Necessary)

If we can’t reach a fair settlement through negotiation, we’re prepared to take your case to court. This involves:

• Filing a lawsuit: We’ll file a complaint in the appropriate court.
• Discovery: Both sides exchange information and evidence.
• Depositions: We’ll take depositions of the truck driver, company representatives, and other witnesses.
• Motions: We’ll file motions to strengthen your case.
• Trial preparation: We’ll prepare your case for trial.

7. Resolution

Most cases settle before trial, but we’re prepared to take your case all the way if necessary. When your case resolves, we’ll:

• Review the settlement offer with you
• Explain the tax implications (if any)
• Distribute the settlement funds
• Pay all outstanding medical bills and liens
• Provide you with your final compensation

Common Questions About Tatum Trucking Accident Cases

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Tatum?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait this long to contact an attorney. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner we begin investigating, the stronger your case will be.

How much is my Tatum trucking accident case worth?

The value of your case depends on many factors:

• Severity of your injuries: More severe injuries result in higher compensation.
• Medical expenses: Both past and future medical costs are considered.
• Lost wages: Both past and future lost income is included.
• Pain and suffering: This includes physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Degree of negligence: Cases involving gross negligence or willful misconduct may result in higher compensation.
• Available insurance coverage: Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits than typical drivers.

While we can’t predict the exact value of your case without a thorough investigation, we can tell you that trucking accident cases often result in significantly higher compensation than typical car accident cases due to the severity of injuries and the higher insurance limits.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means:

• If you were less than 50% at fault, you can still recover compensation, but your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

• If you were 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation.

For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault and your damages were $100,000, you would recover $80,000.

What if the trucking company offers me a settlement?

Do not accept any settlement offer without consulting an attorney first. Early settlement offers are almost always lowball offers designed to pay you far less than your case is worth. Once you accept a settlement, you waive your right to pursue additional compensation, even if your injuries turn out to be more serious than you initially thought.

How long will my case take to resolve?

The timeline for resolving a trucking accident case varies:

• Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
• Moderate cases with some disputes: 12-24 months
• Complex cases with severe injuries or disputed liability: 2-4 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while ensuring you receive full compensation for your injuries.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, there are usually other liable parties and insurance policies that can provide compensation. We thoroughly investigate all potential sources of recovery to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Can I still recover compensation if I don’t have health insurance?

Yes. We can help you get the medical care you need even if you don’t have insurance. We work with medical providers who will treat you on a lien basis, meaning they’ll wait to be paid until your case is resolved.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Even if the driver was an independent contractor, both the driver and the trucking company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from all responsible parties.

What if I was injured in a trucking accident while working?

If you were injured in a trucking accident while working, you may have both a workers’ compensation claim and a personal injury claim. We can help you navigate both systems to maximize your compensation.

The Trucking Companies We’ve Fought Against

At Attorney911, we’ve taken on some of the largest trucking companies in the country. Our experience includes cases against:

• Walmart trucking operations
• Coca-Cola distribution vehicles
• Amazon delivery trucks
• FedEx trucks
• UPS trucks
• Numerous regional and national trucking companies

We know how these companies operate, and we know how to hold them accountable.

Our Commitment to Tatum

As Tatum residents, we understand the unique challenges our community faces. We’re committed to:

• Protecting Tatum families from negligent trucking companies
• Holding corporations accountable when they put profits over safety
• Fighting for fair compensation for injury victims
• Improving trucking safety in our community

When you hire Attorney911, you’re not just getting a lawyer – you’re getting a team of advocates who care about Tatum and are committed to making our roads safer.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Tatum, Texas, don’t wait to get help. Every hour counts when it comes to preserving evidence and protecting your rights.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re available 24/7 to take your call.

Remember: We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. There’s no risk to you, and no upfront costs.

“When an 18-wheeler changes your family’s life forever, you need a lawyer who treats you like family. At Attorney911, we fight for Tatum families like our own. Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911.”

Let us put our 25+ years of experience, our former insurance defense attorney, and our track record of multi-million dollar results to work for you. We’ll fight to get you the compensation you deserve while you focus on your recovery.