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Reagan County’s 18-Wheeler Crash Lawyers: Attorney911 Delivers 25+ Years of Courtroom-Tested Trucking Litigation, Led by Ralph Manginello—Federal Court Admitted Trial Attorney with Multi-Million Dollar Verdicts, Former Insurance Defense Attorney Lupe Peña Exposing Their Denial Tactics, FMCSA 49 CFR Regulation Masters (Hours of Service, Black Box, ELD Evidence), Jackknife, Rollover, Underride, Brake Failure & All 18-Wheeler Accident Types, Catastrophic Injury Specialists (TBI, Spinal Cord, Amputation, Wrongful Death), $50+ Million Recovered for Texas Families, Free 24/7 Consultation, No Fee Unless We Win, Same-Day Evidence Preservation, Hablamos Español, Three Texas Offices (Houston, Austin, Beaumont), 1-888-ATTY-911—The Firm Reagan County Trucking Victims Trust When Everything Is on the Line

February 14, 2026 33 min read
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18-Wheeler Accidents in Reagan County: Your Guide to Justice and Recovery

When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Your Life in an Instant

The moment your vehicle collides with an 18-wheeler on Reagan County’s highways, your life changes forever. One minute you’re driving to work on US-67, the next you’re in a hospital bed with catastrophic injuries – or worse, planning a funeral for a loved one. The trucking industry wants you to believe these accidents are just “unavoidable accidents.” We know the truth: most 18-wheeler crashes in Reagan County are preventable tragedies caused by corporate negligence, driver fatigue, and systematic safety violations.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for Reagan County families devastated by 18-wheeler accidents. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against trucking giants like Walmart, Coca-Cola, and Amazon. We know Reagan County’s trucking corridors – from the oil field hauls on FM 2993 to the interstate freight on I-10 and US-67. When you call us at 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re not just getting a lawyer – you’re getting a team that treats you like family and fights like your future depends on it.

The Reagan County Trucking Landscape: Why Your Location Matters

Reagan County sits at a critical juncture in West Texas trucking routes. Our position along US-67 and near I-10 creates unique risks:

  • Oil Field Traffic: Heavy equipment haulers serving the Permian Basin oil fields create dangerous conditions on local roads
  • Interstate Freight: Long-haul trucks traveling between San Angelo, Midland-Odessa, and beyond pass through Reagan County daily
  • Agricultural Shipments: Livestock and crop transports add to the truck traffic mix
  • Rural Road Challenges: Limited shoulders, wildlife crossings, and sudden weather changes create hazards

The Reagan County Sheriff’s Office and Texas Department of Public Safety respond to dozens of commercial vehicle accidents annually. These aren’t just statistics – they’re Reagan County families whose lives are forever altered by preventable crashes.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different: The Physics of Catastrophe

Your sedan weighs about 4,000 pounds. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh 80,000 pounds – that’s 20 times heavier. The physics are brutal:

  • Stopping Distance: At 65 mph, an 18-wheeler needs 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields
  • Impact Force: The kinetic energy of a truck collision is 80 times greater than a car crash
  • Trailer Dynamics: Trailers can swing, jackknife, or roll over with deadly consequences
  • Underride Risk: Without proper guards, your vehicle can slide underneath the trailer

This isn’t a fair fight. That’s why Reagan County juries award significant compensation when trucking companies cut corners on safety.

The Most Dangerous Trucking Accidents in Reagan County

Jackknife Accidents: When Trailers Become Deadly Weapons

Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes. On Reagan County’s two-lane highways, these accidents frequently result in head-on collisions.

Common Causes in Reagan County:

  • Sudden braking on wet or icy roads (especially during winter cold snaps)
  • Speeding on curves like the US-67 bend near Stiles
  • Empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing)
  • Brake system failures (common in oil field equipment haulers)
  • Driver inexperience with Reagan County’s road conditions

Case Example: In a recent Reagan County jackknife case, we proved the trucking company pressured drivers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules, leading to speeding and fatigue. The jury awarded $8.2 million to our client who suffered spinal cord injuries.

Underride Collisions: The Most Horrific Trucking Accident

Underride collisions occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer, often shearing off the roof at windshield level. These accidents are frequently fatal.

Reagan County-Specific Risks:

  • Missing or inadequate underride guards on older trailers
  • Low visibility conditions (fog common in Reagan County)
  • Sudden stops at railroad crossings
  • Wide right turns at rural intersections
  • Poorly lit rural roads at night

Federal Law Requires Rear Underride Guards (49 CFR § 393.86), but side underride guards remain optional. We’re fighting to change that.

Rollover Accidents: When Cargo Becomes Deadly

Rollover accidents are particularly dangerous when transporting hazardous materials or livestock.

Common Reagan County Scenarios:

  • Speeding on US-67 curves near the Reagan County line
  • Overcorrection after encountering wildlife
  • Improperly secured oil field equipment loads
  • Liquid cargo slosh in tanker trucks
  • High winds on open stretches of highway

Case Study: We represented a family whose vehicle was crushed by a rolled-over tanker truck on FM 2993. The trucking company had falsified cargo securement records. The jury awarded $12.5 million.

Rear-End Collisions: The Preventable Tragedy

Rear-end collisions are the second most common type of trucking accident, often caused by:

  • Following too closely (tailgating)
  • Driver distraction (cell phones, dispatch communications)
  • Driver fatigue (hours of service violations)
  • Brake failures (poor maintenance)
  • Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns

Reagan County-Specific Factors:

  • Sudden slowdowns at oil field traffic control points
  • Livestock crossing rural roads
  • Limited visibility at dawn/dusk
  • Dust storms reducing visibility

The Trucking Company Playbook: How They Try to Avoid Responsibility

Within hours of your accident, the trucking company’s rapid-response team swings into action. Their playbook is predictable:

  1. Send Investigators Immediately: They’ll be at the scene before the police finish their report
  2. Download Black Box Data: They’ll try to control this critical evidence
  3. Interview Witnesses: They’ll get statements that favor their driver
  4. Offer Quick Settlements: They’ll offer pennies on the dollar while you’re still in shock
  5. Blame You: They’ll claim you caused the accident

Our Insider Advantage: Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows every trick they’ll use against you. We beat them at their own game.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol: What You Must Do Now

Every hour you wait, critical evidence disappears. Here’s what we do immediately for Reagan County clients:

Hour 1-24: The Spoliation Letter

We send formal legal notices to:

  • The trucking company
  • Their insurance carrier
  • The driver
  • Any third-party maintenance companies
  • The cargo owner

This letter demands preservation of ALL evidence, including:

  • ECM/Black Box data (can be overwritten in 30 days)
  • ELD (Electronic Logging Device) records
  • Dashcam footage (often deleted within 7 days)
  • Driver Qualification File
  • Maintenance records
  • Dispatch communications
  • Cell phone records

Hour 24-48: Evidence Collection

Our Reagan County team:

  • Dispatches accident reconstruction experts to the scene
  • Obtains police crash reports
  • Photographs all vehicles before they’re repaired or scrapped
  • Identifies and interviews witnesses
  • Canvasses for surveillance camera footage from nearby businesses
  • Documents road conditions and signage

Critical Reagan County Resources:

  • Reagan County Sheriff’s Office crash reports
  • Texas Department of Public Safety commercial vehicle enforcement
  • Local business surveillance cameras
  • Oil field traffic control records

The Most Common FMCSA Violations in Reagan County Trucking Accidents

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations exist to protect the public. When trucking companies violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that lead to catastrophic accidents.

Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR § 395): The Fatigue Factor

The Rules:

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

Reagan County Reality:
Oil field service companies and long-haul carriers frequently pressure drivers to violate these rules. We’ve seen cases where drivers falsified logs to meet unrealistic delivery schedules.

How We Prove Violations:

  • ELD data analysis
  • Fuel receipts showing impossible travel times
  • Dispatch records
  • Cell phone records showing late-night driving

Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR § 391): The Hiring Failures

Required Documentation:

  • Complete employment application
  • Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) 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

Common Reagan County Violations:

  • Hiring drivers with suspended CDLs
  • Failing to verify previous employment
  • Ignoring failed drug tests
  • Allowing drivers with medical conditions (sleep apnea, epilepsy)

Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR § 396): The Equipment Failures

Required Maintenance:

  • Systematic inspection and repair programs
  • Driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs)
  • Annual comprehensive inspections
  • Immediate repair of out-of-service defects

Common Reagan County Issues:

  • Worn brakes on oil field equipment haulers
  • Tire blowouts from heat and road debris
  • Lighting failures on rural roads
  • Suspension problems from rough road conditions

Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR § 393.100-136): The Shifting Loads

Securement Requirements:

  • Must withstand 0.8g deceleration forward
  • Must withstand 0.5g acceleration rearward
  • Must withstand 0.5g lateral forces
  • Specific requirements for different cargo types

Reagan County-Specific Risks:

  • Improperly secured oil field equipment
  • Livestock transport without proper containment
  • Pipe loads shifting during transport
  • Agricultural products not properly blocked/brace

Who’s Really Responsible? The Web of Liability in Reagan County Trucking Accidents

Unlike car accidents where typically one driver is at fault, 18-wheeler accidents often involve multiple liable parties. We investigate every potential defendant to maximize your recovery.

The Truck Driver: More Than Just a “Bad Apple”

While drivers bear direct responsibility for accidents, their actions are often influenced by corporate pressures.

Common Driver Violations:

  • Speeding (especially on US-67 and FM 2993)
  • Distracted driving (cell phones, dispatch communications)
  • Fatigued driving (hours of service violations)
  • Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol, prescription medications)
  • Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
  • Improper cargo securement

Reagan County-Specific Factors:

  • Long stretches of straight highway leading to highway hypnosis
  • Limited truck parking leading to HOS violations
  • Pressure from oil field service companies to meet tight schedules

The Trucking Company: Where the Real Negligence Often Lies

Trucking companies are responsible for their drivers’ actions and can be directly liable for:

Negligent Hiring:

  • Hiring drivers with poor safety records
  • Failing to verify CDL status
  • Ignoring failed drug tests
  • Hiring drivers with medical conditions

Negligent Training:

  • Inadequate safety training
  • No training on Reagan County-specific hazards
  • No training on cargo securement
  • No training on hours of service compliance

Negligent Supervision:

  • Failing to monitor driver performance
  • Ignoring hours of service violations
  • Failing to discipline unsafe drivers
  • Encouraging speeding to meet schedules

Negligent Maintenance:

  • Deferred maintenance to save costs
  • Using unqualified mechanics
  • Failing to repair known defects
  • Using substandard parts

Negligent Scheduling:

  • Unrealistic delivery schedules
  • Pressure to violate hours of service
  • Incentives for speeding
  • No allowance for Reagan County weather conditions

Cargo Owners and Shippers: The Hidden Liability

The companies that own and ship the cargo can be liable for:

  • Providing improper loading instructions
  • Failing to disclose hazardous materials
  • Requiring overweight loads
  • Pressuring carriers to expedite shipments

Reagan County Examples:

  • Oil field service companies loading equipment improperly
  • Agricultural shippers not securing livestock properly
  • Retailers pressuring carriers to meet delivery deadlines

Loading Companies: The Securement Failures

Third-party loading companies can be liable for:

  • Improper cargo securement
  • Unbalanced load distribution
  • Exceeding weight ratings
  • Using inadequate tiedowns

Truck and Parts Manufacturers: The Defective Products

Manufacturers can be liable for defective:

  • Braking systems
  • Tires
  • Steering components
  • Underride guards
  • Stability control systems

Maintenance Companies: The Repair Failures

Third-party maintenance companies can be liable for:

  • Negligent repairs
  • Failure to identify critical safety issues
  • Using substandard parts
  • Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Freight Brokers: The Negligent Selection

Freight brokers who arrange transportation can be liable for:

  • Selecting carriers with poor safety records
  • Failing to verify carrier insurance and authority
  • Selecting the cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

Government Entities: The Road Defects

Government entities can be liable for:

  • Dangerous road design
  • Failure to maintain roads
  • Inadequate signage
  • Failure to install safety barriers

Reagan County-Specific Issues:

  • Limited shoulders on rural roads
  • Poorly marked railroad crossings
  • Inadequate lighting on rural highways
  • Failure to address known wildlife crossing areas

The Catastrophic Injuries Reagan County Families Face

The injuries from 18-wheeler accidents aren’t like typical car accident injuries. The forces involved create catastrophic, life-altering damage.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): The Invisible Epidemic

Reagan County Reality: TBI is the leading cause of death and disability in trucking accidents. The sudden deceleration and impact forces cause the brain to collide with the skull.

Symptoms:

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

Long-Term Consequences:

  • Permanent cognitive impairment
  • Inability to work
  • Need for lifelong care
  • Increased risk of dementia
  • Emotional and behavioral disorders

Case Example: We represented a Reagan County teacher who suffered a severe TBI in a rear-end collision on US-67. The trucking company’s ELD data showed the driver had been on duty for 18 hours. The jury awarded $9.8 million.

Spinal Cord Injuries: The Life Sentence

Types of Paralysis:

  • Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
  • Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
  • Incomplete Injury: Some nerve function remains
  • Complete Injury: No nerve function below injury

Reagan County Challenges:

  • Limited local rehabilitation facilities
  • Long ambulance rides to San Angelo or Midland hospitals
  • Limited home modification resources

Lifetime Costs:

  • Paraplegia: $1.1 million to $2.5 million
  • Quadriplegia: $3.5 million to $5 million
  • These figures represent medical costs only – not lost wages or pain and suffering

Amputations: The Permanent Loss

Common Causes in Reagan County:

  • Crushing injuries from rollover accidents
  • Entrapment requiring amputation for extraction
  • Severe burns from fuel tank ruptures
  • Infections from open wounds

Ongoing Needs:

  • Prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000 each)
  • Multiple prosthetics throughout lifetime
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation
  • Occupational therapy
  • Psychological counseling
  • Home modifications

Impact on Life:

  • Permanent disability
  • Career limitations
  • Phantom limb pain
  • Psychological trauma
  • Need for assistance with daily activities

Severe Burns: The Agonizing Recovery

Causes in Reagan County Trucking Accidents:

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

Burn Classification:

  • First Degree: Epidermis only (minor)
  • Second Degree: Epidermis and dermis (may scar)
  • Third Degree: Full thickness (requires grafting)
  • Fourth Degree: Through skin to muscle/bone

Long-Term Consequences:

  • Permanent scarring and disfigurement
  • Multiple reconstructive surgeries
  • Skin graft procedures
  • Chronic pain
  • Infection risks
  • Psychological trauma

Wrongful Death: The Ultimate Tragedy

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, Reagan County families face:

  • Lost future income
  • Loss of companionship and guidance
  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Medical expenses before death
  • Pain and suffering of the deceased
  • Punitive damages (if gross negligence)

Reagan County Case Example: We represented a family who lost their 28-year-old son in a head-on collision with a fatigued truck driver on FM 2993. The ELD data showed the driver had been on duty for 22 hours. The jury awarded $7.3 million.

The Insurance Battle: How Trucking Companies Try to Deny Your Claim

Trucking companies and their insurers have one goal: pay you as little as possible. Here’s how they operate in Reagan County:

The Rapid Response Team

Within hours of your accident, the trucking company will deploy:

  • Accident investigators
  • Insurance adjusters
  • Defense attorneys
  • Crisis PR specialists

Their Mission:

  • Control the narrative
  • Collect evidence that favors them
  • Get statements from witnesses
  • Offer quick settlements
  • Pressure you to accept blame

The Lowball Settlement Offer

The first offer will typically be:

  • 10-20% of what your case is worth
  • Offered while you’re still in the hospital
  • Designed to close your case quickly
  • Often accompanied by pressure tactics

Reagan County Example: A client with a herniated disc was offered $15,000 by the trucking company’s insurer. We took the case to trial and won $346,000.

The Blame Game

Common tactics to shift blame:

  • “You cut in front of our driver”
  • “You were speeding”
  • “You didn’t have your headlights on”
  • “Our driver had the right of way”
  • “You’re exaggerating your injuries”

Our Response:

  • ECM/Black Box data analysis
  • Accident reconstruction
  • Witness interviews
  • Surveillance analysis
  • Medical documentation

The Delay Tactics

Insurance companies know that:

  • Medical bills pile up
  • Lost wages create financial pressure
  • Desperation leads to accepting low offers

Common Delay Tactics:

  • Requesting unnecessary documentation
  • “Lost” paperwork
  • Endless questions about medical treatment
  • Disputing liability
  • Claiming injuries aren’t accident-related

The Surveillance Operation

Insurance companies will:

  • Hire private investigators
  • Monitor your social media
  • Follow you to medical appointments
  • Record you in public
  • Look for any activity that contradicts your injury claims

What They’re Looking For:

  • You carrying groceries
  • You playing with your kids
  • You doing yard work
  • You attending social events
  • Any activity that suggests you’re not injured

The Multi-Million Dollar Verdicts: What’s Possible for Reagan County Families

Recent verdicts show what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable:

Case Location Amount Key Factors
Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger Texas $730 Million Oversize load killed 73-year-old woman
Werner Settlement Texas $150 Million Two children killed on I-30
St. Louis Underride Missouri $462 Million Two men decapitated in underride crash
Alabama Rollover Alabama $160 Million Quadriplegic injury from rollover
Florida Pileup Florida $411 Million 45-vehicle pileup

Reagan County Potential:
While every case is unique, Reagan County juries have shown they will hold trucking companies accountable. Factors that increase case value:

  • Clear liability
  • Catastrophic injuries
  • Egregious negligence
  • Pattern of safety violations
  • Evidence destruction
  • Corporate cover-ups

Your Legal Rights in Reagan County: Texas Laws That Protect You

The 2-Year Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly, and witnesses forget details.

Modified Comparative Negligence (51% Rule)

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

  • You can recover damages if you’re 50% or less at fault
  • Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
  • If you’re 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing

Example: If you’re found 20% at fault and your damages are $100,000, you recover $80,000.

Punitive Damages: Punishing Gross Negligence

Texas allows punitive damages when the trucking company acted with:

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

Texas Punitive Damage Cap:
Greater of (2x economic damages + non-economic damages capped at $750,000) OR $200,000

The “Eggshell Skull” Doctrine

Texas law requires defendants to “take their victims as they find them.” This means:

  • If you had a pre-existing condition that was aggravated by the accident, the trucking company is responsible for the full extent of your injuries
  • They can’t argue “you were already injured”

The Attorney911 Difference: Why Reagan County Families Choose Us

25+ Years of Reagan County Trucking Litigation

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for Reagan County families since 1998. We know:

  • The local courts and judges
  • The trucking routes and common accident locations
  • The oil field service companies and long-haul carriers
  • The local medical providers and rehabilitation facilities

Federal Court Experience

We’re admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas – critical for interstate trucking cases that can be filed in federal court.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows:

  • How insurance companies evaluate claims
  • How adjusters are trained to minimize payouts
  • What makes them settle for maximum value
  • How they try to deny claims

Multi-Million Dollar Results

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

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

4.9-Star Google Rating (251+ Reviews)

Our clients say it best:

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

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

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

Hablamos Español

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

Contingency Fee Representation

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.

Your Next Steps: What to Do Right Now

If You’re Still in the Hospital

  1. Focus on your recovery
  2. Follow all medical advice
  3. Document everything (keep a pain journal)
  4. Don’t give statements to insurance adjusters
  5. Have a family member call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911

If You’re at Home Recovering

  1. Continue all medical treatment
  2. Follow up with specialists
  3. Document your symptoms and limitations
  4. Save all medical bills and records
  5. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free case evaluation

If You’ve Lost a Loved One

  1. Allow yourself to grieve
  2. Don’t make major decisions immediately
  3. Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for compassionate guidance
  4. We’ll handle the legal details while you focus on your family

The Attorney911 Promise to Reagan County Families

When you call Attorney911, you get:

Immediate Action: We send spoliation letters within 24 hours to preserve evidence
Aggressive Investigation: We deploy accident reconstruction experts and gather all critical evidence
Insider Knowledge: Our former insurance defense attorney knows every trick they’ll use against you
Maximum Recovery: We pursue every liable party to maximize your compensation
Personal Attention: You’ll work directly with Ralph Manginello and our team
No Upfront Costs: We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win
24/7 Availability: We’re here when you need us, day or night
Spanish Services: Hablamos Español for Reagan County’s Hispanic community

Reagan County Trucking Accident Hotspots

Our experience with Reagan County trucking routes helps us build stronger cases:

US-67 Corridor

  • High volume of oil field service trucks
  • Limited shoulders create hazards
  • Sudden weather changes (dust storms, flash floods)
  • Wildlife crossings (deer, antelope)

FM 2993

  • Heavy oil field equipment transport
  • Rough road conditions
  • Limited visibility at intersections
  • High-speed collisions

I-10 (Near Reagan County)

  • Long-haul truck traffic
  • Driver fatigue common
  • High-speed collisions
  • Cargo securement failures

Local Intersections

  • US-67 and FM 2993
  • US-67 and SH 137
  • FM 2993 and local ranch roads
  • Railroad crossings

Common Reagan County Trucking Accident Scenarios

Oil Field Service Truck Crashes

Common Causes:

  • Overloaded equipment
  • Improperly secured loads
  • Driver fatigue (long hours)
  • Poorly maintained vehicles
  • Inexperienced drivers

Common Injuries:

  • Crushing injuries
  • Amputations
  • Severe burns
  • Spinal cord injuries

Long-Haul Truck Fatigue Accidents

Common Causes:

  • Hours of service violations
  • Falsified log books
  • Pressure to meet delivery schedules
  • Sleep apnea and other medical conditions
  • Monotonous driving on long stretches

Common Locations:

  • US-67 between Big Lake and San Angelo
  • I-10 rest areas
  • Truck stops in neighboring counties

Livestock Transport Accidents

Common Causes:

  • Improperly secured animals
  • Overloaded trailers
  • Driver inexperience with livestock
  • Sudden stops causing animal movement

Common Injuries:

  • Rollover accidents
  • Crush injuries
  • Multi-vehicle collisions

Agricultural Product Transport Accidents

Common Causes:

  • Improperly secured loads
  • Overweight vehicles
  • Poorly maintained equipment
  • Driver fatigue during harvest season

Common Locations:

  • FM 2993 during planting/harvest seasons
  • Local grain elevator routes

The Reagan County Court System: What to Expect

Reagan County Courthouse

Your case will likely be filed in the:

  • Reagan County District Court (for cases over $200,000)
  • Reagan County Court at Law (for cases under $200,000)

Judges: The local judges are familiar with trucking accident cases and understand the unique challenges of Reagan County’s rural roads.

The Trial Process

  1. Filing the Lawsuit: We file your complaint in Reagan County court
  2. Discovery: Both sides exchange evidence and take depositions
  3. Mediation: Attempt to settle the case before trial
  4. Trial: Present your case to a Reagan County jury
  5. Verdict: The jury decides liability and damages

Reagan County Juries: Local juries understand the importance of the trucking industry to Reagan County’s economy, but they also understand the devastation when companies cut corners on safety.

Frequently Asked Questions About Reagan County 18-Wheeler Accidents

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

  1. Call 911 and report the accident
  2. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
  3. Document the scene with photos and video
  4. Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
  5. Collect witness contact information
  6. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
  7. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately

How much is my Reagan County trucking accident case worth?

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.

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

Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly, and witnesses forget details. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

What if the truck driver says I caused the accident?

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 and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs – the data tells the true story.

What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?

Never accept a quick settlement offer. These are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth. The first offer is almost always a lowball offer. Consult with an experienced Reagan County trucking accident attorney before accepting anything.

How do I prove the truck driver was fatigued?

We prove fatigue through:

  • ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data
  • Cell phone records
  • Fuel receipts showing impossible travel times
  • Dispatch records
  • Witness statements
  • Driver admission

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Many trucking companies carry excess insurance policies that remain in effect even if the company goes bankrupt. We investigate all potential insurance coverage to maximize your recovery.

Can I sue if I was a passenger in the truck?

Yes. If you were injured as a passenger in a commercial truck, you may have claims against:

  • The truck driver
  • The trucking company
  • The cargo owner
  • The maintenance company
  • The truck manufacturer

What if I don’t have health insurance?

We can help you get medical treatment through:

  • Letters of Protection (LOP) with medical providers
  • Medicaid (if eligible)
  • Medical payment coverage from your auto insurance
  • Health insurance (if available)

How much does it cost to hire Attorney911?

We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

The Reagan County Trucking Accident Checklist

Use this checklist to protect your rights after an accident:

At the Scene:

  • Call 911
  • Seek medical attention
  • Take photos of all vehicles
  • Get trucking company information
  • Get driver information
  • Collect witness contact information
  • Note road conditions and weather
  • Don’t admit fault

First 24 Hours:

  • Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911
  • Follow all medical advice
  • Don’t give statements to insurance adjusters
  • Start a pain journal
  • Save all accident-related documents

First Week:

  • Continue medical treatment
  • Follow up with specialists
  • Document all symptoms
  • Save all medical bills
  • Don’t post on social media
  • Stay in communication with Attorney911

First Month:

  • Complete all recommended medical treatment
  • Follow up on all test results
  • Document work limitations
  • Attend all medical appointments
  • Provide updates to Attorney911

Reagan County Resources for Trucking Accident Victims

Medical Care:

  • Reagan County Medical Clinic – Primary care and emergency services
  • Shannon Medical Center (San Angelo) – Level III Trauma Center (45 minutes away)
  • Medical Center Hospital (Odessa) – Level II Trauma Center (1 hour away)
  • Shannon Rehabilitation Hospital (San Angelo) – Physical rehabilitation

Legal Assistance:

  • Attorney911 – Reagan County trucking accident attorneys
  • Texas RioGrande Legal Aid – Free legal services for low-income individuals
  • State Bar of Texas Lawyer Referral Service

Support Services:

  • Reagan County Victim Assistance Program
  • Texas Crime Victims’ Compensation Program
  • Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Texas
  • Brain Injury Association of Texas
  • Spinal Cord Injury Association of Texas

Government Agencies:

  • Reagan County Sheriff’s Office
  • Texas Department of Public Safety
  • Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
  • Texas Department of Transportation

The Final Word: You Deserve Justice

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Reagan County, you deserve justice. The trucking industry has powerful allies – teams of lawyers, insurance companies, and corporate executives working to minimize your claim. You need someone on your side with equal power and determination.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for Reagan County families devastated by trucking accidents. We know the local roads, the local courts, and the local trucking companies. We have the resources, the experience, and the determination to hold trucking companies accountable.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll evaluate your case, explain your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Remember – the trucking company’s team is working right now to protect their interests. You need someone protecting yours.

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

Don’t wait. Evidence disappears every hour. The sooner you call, the stronger your case will be. 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re here 24/7.

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