24/7 LIVE STAFF — Compassionate help, any time day or night
CALL NOW 1-888-ATTY-911
Blog | City of Henderson

City of Henderson 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers: Attorney911 Delivers 25+ Years of Courtroom-Tested Trucking Litigation, Former Insurance Defense Attorney Insider Knowledge, FMCSA 49 CFR Regulation Mastery, Black Box & ELD Data Extraction, Jackknife, Rollover, Underride, Brake Failure & All Crash Types, Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Damage, Amputation & Wrongful Death Specialists – $50+ Million Recovered for Texas Families, Federal Court Admitted, Three Texas Offices (Houston, Austin, Beaumont), 4.9★ Google Rating, Free 24/7 Consultation, No Fee Unless We Win, Hablamos Español, 1-888-ATTY-911

February 14, 2026 32 min read
city-of-henderson-featured-image.png

18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in City of Henderson, Texas

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in City of Henderson, Texas, you need experienced legal representation that understands the unique challenges of trucking litigation. At Attorney911, our City of Henderson trucking accident attorneys have been fighting for victims of catastrophic commercial vehicle accidents for over 25 years. We know the City of Henderson area highways, the local courts, and how to hold trucking companies accountable when their negligence causes life-altering injuries.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different in City of Henderson

City of Henderson sits at the crossroads of major East Texas transportation routes, including State Highway 64 and US Highway 259. These highways connect to larger corridors like Interstate 20 to the north, creating a hub for commercial truck traffic. The oil and gas industry, timber operations, and agricultural transportation contribute to heavy truck traffic through Rusk County and the surrounding areas.

Unlike typical car accidents, 18-wheeler crashes in City of Henderson often involve:

  • Multiple liable parties – The driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, maintenance providers, and others may share responsibility
  • Federal safety regulations – Trucking companies must comply with FMCSA rules on driver qualifications, hours of service, and vehicle maintenance
  • Massive insurance policies – Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million in coverage, allowing for substantial compensation
  • Catastrophic injuries – The size and weight disparity between trucks and passenger vehicles leads to severe injuries or death

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in City of Henderson

Our City of Henderson trucking accident attorneys have seen how local conditions contribute to commercial vehicle crashes:

Fatigued Driving on Rural Highways

Long-haul truckers traveling through East Texas often violate federal hours-of-service regulations. The rural stretches of Highway 64 and 259 can lull tired drivers into dangerous drowsiness. We’ve handled cases where truckers falsified their logs to drive beyond the legal limits, causing devastating accidents on these roads.

Improper Cargo Loading

Timber trucks, oilfield equipment haulers, and agricultural transporters frequently operate in the City of Henderson area. When cargo isn’t properly secured according to FMCSA regulations, it can shift during transit, causing rollovers or spills that endanger other motorists.

Brake Failures on Rolling Terrain

The gentle hills and curves around City of Henderson can strain truck braking systems, especially when drivers fail to properly maintain their equipment. We’ve investigated cases where worn brakes or improper adjustment led to runaway trucks on downhill grades.

Distracted Driving in Work Zones

With ongoing infrastructure projects on local highways, truck drivers must navigate work zones carefully. Our attorneys have seen cases where distracted truckers caused accidents in construction zones, leading to injuries for both motorists and road workers.

Tire Blowouts on Hot Texas Roads

East Texas temperatures can exceed 100°F during summer months, increasing the risk of tire blowouts. When trucking companies fail to replace worn tires or properly inflate them, catastrophic accidents can occur on City of Henderson area highways.

Catastrophic Injuries from Trucking Accidents

The physics of trucking accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm rather than the exception. When an 80,000-pound 18-wheeler collides with a 4,000-pound passenger vehicle, the results are often devastating:

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – The force of impact can cause the brain to strike the inside of the skull, leading to cognitive impairments, memory loss, and personality changes
  • Spinal Cord Injuries – Damage to the spinal cord can result in paralysis, with lifetime care costs exceeding $5 million for quadriplegia
  • Amputations – Crushing injuries may require surgical amputation, with prosthetic costs ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 per limb
  • Severe Burns – Fuel tank ruptures can cause fires that result in third-degree burns requiring multiple skin graft surgeries
  • Internal Organ Damage – The impact forces can rupture organs like the liver, spleen, or kidneys, requiring emergency surgery
  • Wrongful Death – Trucking accidents claim hundreds of lives annually, leaving families to cope with the emotional and financial aftermath

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your City of Henderson Trucking Accident Case

1. Local Knowledge of City of Henderson and East Texas

We understand the unique challenges of trucking accident cases in City of Henderson and Rusk County. Our attorneys know:

  • The specific highways and intersections where trucking accidents frequently occur
  • The local courts and judges who handle personal injury cases
  • The trucking routes used by oilfield, timber, and agricultural haulers
  • The distribution centers and truck stops where drivers may violate hours-of-service regulations
  • The local medical facilities where accident victims receive treatment

2. Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm before joining Attorney911. He knows exactly how trucking insurance companies evaluate claims, train their adjusters, and try to minimize payouts. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for accident victims, not against them.

“Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years INSIDE the system. He 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.”

3. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Managing partner Ralph Manginello has been handling 18-wheeler accident cases since 1998. He has:

  • Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for trucking accident victims
  • Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
  • Experience litigating against major trucking companies including Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS
  • Deep expertise in FMCSA regulations and how to prove violations

4. Immediate Evidence Preservation

In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears quickly. We take immediate action to preserve:

  • Black box/ECM data – Can be overwritten in 30 days
  • ELD logs – Electronic logging device records that prove hours-of-service violations
  • Dashcam footage – Often deleted within 7-14 days
  • Driver qualification files – May be destroyed if not properly preserved
  • Maintenance records – Critical for proving negligent maintenance
  • Physical evidence – The truck and trailer may be repaired or sold

We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained to ensure all evidence is preserved for your case.

5. Comprehensive Investigation

Our City of Henderson trucking accident attorneys conduct thorough investigations:

  • Accident reconstruction – We work with expert engineers to determine exactly how the accident occurred
  • FMCSA compliance review – We analyze whether the trucking company violated federal safety regulations
  • Driver background check – We investigate the driver’s qualifications, training, and safety record
  • Company safety culture – We examine the trucking company’s history of violations and accidents
  • Maintenance records – We review whether the vehicle was properly maintained
  • Cargo loading practices – We determine if improper loading contributed to the accident

6. Access to Top Medical Experts

We work with leading medical specialists to document your injuries and project future care needs:

  • Trauma surgeons
  • Neurologists
  • Orthopedic specialists
  • Pain management doctors
  • Vocational rehabilitation experts
  • Life care planners

7. Contingency Fee Representation

We understand that accident victims face financial hardship. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis:

  • No upfront costs
  • No hourly fees
  • No retainer required
  • You pay nothing unless we win your case
  • Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict, not from your pocket

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in City of Henderson

Immediate Steps:

  1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request emergency medical assistance
  2. Seek medical attention – Even if you feel okay, get checked by a doctor
  3. Document the scene – Take photos of all vehicles, injuries, and road conditions
  4. Get driver and company information – Collect the truck driver’s name, CDL number, and the trucking company’s information
  5. Identify witnesses – Get contact information from anyone who saw the accident
  6. Avoid giving statements – Don’t speak to insurance adjusters without legal representation
  7. Call Attorney911 – Contact us immediately to preserve evidence and protect your rights

Critical Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Waiting to seek medical treatment – Delays can harm both your health and your case
  • Giving recorded statements – Insurance adjusters will use your words against you
  • Posting on social media – Insurance companies will monitor your accounts
  • Accepting early settlement offers – Quick offers are typically lowball attempts
  • Assuming you were at fault – Let us investigate the true cause of the accident

Types of Trucking Accidents We Handle in City of Henderson

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic. These accidents frequently happen on Highway 64 when drivers brake suddenly or take curves too quickly.

Rollover Accidents

Rollover accidents are common with top-heavy trucks, especially when carrying timber or agricultural products. The rolling hills and curves around City of Henderson increase the risk of these devastating accidents.

Underride Collisions

Underride accidents occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler. These accidents often result in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries. While rear underride guards are required, side underride guards are not – making these accidents particularly deadly.

Rear-End Collisions

A fully loaded 18-wheeler requires 525 feet to stop from 65 mph – nearly two football fields. When truck drivers follow too closely or fail to maintain their brakes, rear-end collisions can crush smaller vehicles.

Wide Turn Accidents

Trucks need significant space to make turns. When drivers swing wide to the left before making a right turn, they create a dangerous gap that other vehicles may enter, only to be crushed when the truck completes its turn.

Blind Spot Accidents

Trucks have massive blind spots, particularly on the right side. When truck drivers fail to check their mirrors properly, they may collide with vehicles in these “No-Zones.”

Tire Blowout Accidents

East Texas heat can cause tire blowouts, especially when trucking companies fail to replace worn tires or properly inflate them. A blown steer tire can cause immediate loss of control.

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes. When trucking companies defer maintenance or fail to properly adjust brakes, catastrophic accidents can occur on the rolling terrain around City of Henderson.

Cargo Spill Accidents

Improperly secured cargo can fall from trucks, creating road hazards. Hazmat spills can cause chemical exposure, fires, or explosions.

Proving Liability in City of Henderson Trucking Accidents

Multiple Potentially Liable Parties

Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple responsible parties:

  1. The Truck Driver – For negligent operation, fatigue, distraction, or impairment
  2. The Trucking Company – For negligent hiring, training, supervision, or maintenance
  3. The Cargo Owner – For improper loading instructions or hazardous cargo
  4. The Loading Company – For improper cargo securement
  5. The Truck Manufacturer – For defective vehicle design
  6. The Parts Manufacturer – For defective components like brakes or tires
  7. The Maintenance Company – For negligent repairs
  8. The Freight Broker – For negligent carrier selection
  9. The Truck Owner – For negligent entrustment (if different from carrier)
  10. Government Entities – For dangerous road design or maintenance

Key Evidence We Pursue

To prove liability, we gather comprehensive evidence:

  • ECM/Black Box Data – Shows speed, braking, and other critical factors
  • ELD Records – Prove hours-of-service violations and driver fatigue
  • Driver Qualification File – Documents hiring practices and qualifications
  • Maintenance Records – Show whether the truck was properly maintained
  • Cargo Securement Records – Prove whether cargo was properly loaded
  • Cell Phone Records – Document distracted driving
  • GPS/Telematics Data – Shows the truck’s route and speed history
  • Dashcam Footage – Provides visual evidence of the accident
  • Witness Statements – Corroborate your version of events
  • Accident Reconstruction – Expert analysis of how the accident occurred

FMCSA Regulations That Often Get Violated in City of Henderson Trucking Accidents

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates commercial trucking operations. Violations of these regulations often contribute to accidents:

Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395)

  • 11-Hour Driving Limit – Drivers may not drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
  • 14-Hour On-Duty Window – Drivers may not drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
  • 30-Minute Break Rule – Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
  • 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit – Drivers may not drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days

Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391)

  • Unqualified Drivers – Operating without a valid CDL or medical certificate
  • Incomplete Driver Qualification Files – Missing background checks or training records
  • Medical Disqualifications – Drivers with conditions like sleep apnea or epilepsy

Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396)

  • Brake System Deficiencies – Worn brakes or improper adjustment
  • Tire Violations – Worn tires or improper inflation
  • Lighting Problems – Non-functioning headlights, taillights, or turn signals
  • Failure to Conduct Inspections – Missing pre-trip or post-trip inspections

Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR Part 393)

  • Inadequate Tiedowns – Not enough tiedowns or insufficient strength
  • Improper Load Distribution – Unbalanced cargo that affects vehicle stability
  • Failure to Re-inspect – Not checking cargo securement during the trip

Damages Available in City of Henderson Trucking Accident Cases

Texas law allows accident victims to recover both economic and non-economic damages:

Economic Damages

  • Medical Expenses – Past, present, and future medical costs
  • Lost Wages – Income lost due to injury and recovery
  • Lost Earning Capacity – Reduction in future earning ability
  • Property Damage – Vehicle repair or replacement
  • Out-of-Pocket Expenses – Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications
  • Life Care Costs – Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages

  • Pain and Suffering – Physical pain from injuries
  • Mental Anguish – Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression
  • Loss of Enjoyment – Inability to participate in activities
  • Disfigurement – Scarring, visible injuries
  • Loss of Consortium – Impact on marriage and family relationships
  • Physical Impairment – Reduced physical capabilities

Punitive Damages

In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, punitive damages may be available to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct.

City of Henderson Trucking Accident Statistics

While specific statistics for City of Henderson aren’t available, Texas and national data provide context for the trucking accident risks in East Texas:

  • 5,100+ fatalities in large truck crashes annually in the U.S. (NHTSA)
  • 125,000+ injuries from large truck crashes each year
  • 76% of fatalities are occupants of other vehicles (not truck drivers)
  • 29% of truck accidents involve brake problems
  • 13% of truck drivers involved in fatal crashes had at least one prior speeding conviction
  • Texas ranks #1 in the nation for trucking accident fatalities

The rural highways around City of Henderson present unique risks:

  • Long straightaways can lead to driver fatigue
  • Limited emergency services mean longer response times
  • Heavy truck traffic from oilfield, timber, and agricultural operations
  • Variable road conditions from weather and maintenance issues

Recent Trucking Accidents in East Texas

While we can’t comment on specific cases we’re currently handling, recent news reports highlight the trucking accident risks in East Texas:

  • A fatal accident on Highway 64 near Henderson involved a truck carrying oilfield equipment
  • A multi-vehicle crash on I-20 near Longview was caused by a truck tire blowout
  • A rollover accident on Highway 259 resulted in spilled cargo that blocked the roadway
  • A jackknife accident on Highway 79 near Tyler caused significant traffic delays

These incidents demonstrate the types of trucking accidents that occur in the City of Henderson area and the importance of experienced legal representation.

How Long Do You Have to File a Trucking Accident Lawsuit in Texas?

Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims arising from trucking accidents. This means you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.

However, you should never wait to contact an attorney. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases:

  • Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days
  • Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days
  • Witness memories fade over time
  • Physical evidence may be repaired or destroyed

The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

What to Expect When Working With Our City of Henderson Trucking Accident Attorneys

Initial Consultation

  • We’ll evaluate your case at no cost
  • We’ll explain your legal rights and options
  • We’ll answer all your questions about the process

Investigation Phase

  • We’ll send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
  • We’ll obtain police reports and accident scene photos
  • We’ll gather medical records and bills
  • We’ll interview witnesses
  • We’ll work with accident reconstruction experts

Medical Treatment

  • We’ll help you get the medical care you need
  • We’ll document your injuries and treatment
  • We’ll work with your doctors to understand your prognosis

Demand and Negotiation

  • We’ll calculate the full value of your claim
  • We’ll prepare a comprehensive demand package
  • We’ll negotiate aggressively with the insurance company

Litigation (If Necessary)

  • We’ll file a lawsuit if negotiations don’t produce fair results
  • We’ll conduct discovery to gather additional evidence
  • We’ll take depositions of key witnesses
  • We’ll prepare your case for trial

Resolution

  • The majority of cases settle before trial
  • If necessary, we’ll take your case to a jury verdict
  • We’ll ensure you receive the maximum compensation available

Why Trucking Companies Try to Settle Quickly (And Why You Shouldn’t)

After a trucking accident, the insurance company may contact you with a quick settlement offer. They do this because:

  1. Evidence is still fresh – They want to settle before you understand the full extent of your injuries
  2. They know the true value – Insurance companies have sophisticated valuation models
  3. They want to avoid litigation – They know we’re prepared to take cases to trial

Never accept a quick settlement offer without consulting an attorney. These offers are typically far below what your case is actually worth.

The Attorney911 Difference

1. We’re City of Henderson Trucking Accident Specialists

While many personal injury firms handle car accidents, we focus specifically on trucking cases. This specialization gives us:

  • Deep knowledge of FMCSA regulations
  • Experience with complex multi-party litigation
  • Understanding of trucking industry practices
  • Relationships with trucking accident experts

2. We Have Federal Court Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, is admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court admission is critical for:

  • Interstate trucking cases that cross state lines
  • Cases involving federal regulations
  • Complex litigation against large trucking companies

3. We Include a Former Insurance Defense Attorney

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

  • How insurance companies evaluate claims
  • The tactics adjusters use to minimize payouts
  • How to counter their arguments
  • What it takes to get them to offer fair settlements

4. We Prepare Every Case for Trial

While most cases settle, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach:

  • Creates leverage in settlement negotiations
  • Shows insurance companies we’re serious
  • Ensures we’re ready if the case goes to court
  • Results in better settlements for our clients

5. We Offer Fluent Spanish Services

Many truck drivers and accident victims in City of Henderson speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

“At Attorney911, we understand that many trucking accident victims in City of Henderson 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.”

City of Henderson Trucking Corridors We Know Well

Our attorneys are familiar with the trucking routes that serve City of Henderson and the unique risks they present:

State Highway 64

This major east-west route connects City of Henderson to Tyler and beyond. Heavy truck traffic from oilfield, timber, and agricultural operations creates significant accident risks, particularly at intersections and during inclement weather.

US Highway 259

Running north-south through City of Henderson, this highway sees heavy truck traffic serving the timber industry and connecting to larger corridors. The mix of local and through traffic creates congestion and accident risks.

Interstate 20

While not directly through City of Henderson, I-20 is a major east-west trucking corridor that serves the region. Trucks traveling between Dallas and Shreveport often pass through East Texas, creating risks on connecting routes.

State Highway 43

This north-south route connects City of Henderson to Marshall and Carthage, serving as an important corridor for regional truck traffic.

Local Roads and Intersections

We’re familiar with the City of Henderson area intersections and roads where truck accidents frequently occur, including:

  • The intersection of Highway 64 and Highway 259
  • The Highway 64 bypass around City of Henderson
  • The industrial areas where truck traffic is concentrated
  • The distribution centers and truck stops where drivers may violate hours-of-service regulations

The City of Henderson Legal Landscape

City of Henderson is the county seat of Rusk County, Texas. The legal landscape for trucking accident cases in this area includes:

Rusk County Courthouse

Personal injury cases from City of Henderson are typically filed in the Rusk County District Court. We’re familiar with the local court procedures and personnel.

Local Judges

We know the judges who handle personal injury cases in Rusk County and understand their preferences and tendencies.

Jury Pool

City of Henderson juries come from Rusk County and the surrounding East Texas communities. We understand the local jury pool and how to present cases effectively to them.

Local Medical Facilities

Accident victims in City of Henderson are often treated at:

  • UT Health East Texas Henderson Hospital
  • Christus Mother Frances Hospital – Tyler
  • East Texas Medical Center – Tyler
  • Longview Regional Medical Center

We work with these medical providers to document injuries and obtain necessary records.

What Our Clients Say About Working With 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

“Ralph reached out personally.”
— Dame Haskett, 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

Frequently Asked Questions About City of Henderson Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in City of Henderson?

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in City of Henderson, take these steps immediately if you’re able:

  1. Call 911 and report the accident
  2. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
  3. Document the scene with photos and video if possible
  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 an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately

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

YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. City of Henderson hospitals and trauma centers can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

What information should I collect at the truck accident scene?

Document everything possible:

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

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

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

How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney in City of Henderson?

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

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in City of Henderson?

Multiple parties may be liable in trucking accidents:

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

We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?

Usually YES. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for:

  • Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified drivers)
  • Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
  • Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
  • Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)

What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs – the data tells the true story.

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

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

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

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data – similar to an airplane’s black box. This data can show:

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

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

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

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

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

What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We pursue:

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

Can the trucking company destroy evidence?

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

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

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

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

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

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

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find:

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

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

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

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

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

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

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

What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in City of Henderson?

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

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

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in City of Henderson?

Case values depend on many factors:

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

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

What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in City of Henderson?

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

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

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

How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in City of Henderson?

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

How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

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

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

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

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

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

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

Contact Our City of Henderson Trucking Accident Attorneys

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in City of Henderson, Texas, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Evidence disappears quickly, and trucking companies have teams working to protect their interests.

Call Attorney911 now for a free consultation:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 https://attorney911.com

We’re available 24/7 to answer your call and begin protecting your rights. Our City of Henderson trucking accident attorneys work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.

“Don’t let the trucking company win. Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer. We fight. We win.”

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Share this article:

Need Legal Help?

Free consultation. No fee unless we win your case.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911

Ready to Fight for Your Rights?

Free consultation. No upfront costs. We don't get paid unless we win your case.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911