18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Center, Texas | Attorney911

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

The impact was catastrophic. One moment, you’re driving down Highway 96 or FM 417 near Center, Texas, the next, an 18-wheeler is jackknifing across three lanes of traffic. The crushing force of 80,000 pounds against your sedan leaves no chance for survival if you’re in the wrong place. The injuries aren’t just severe—they’re life-altering. Traumatic brain injury. Spinal cord damage. Amputation. Burns that will scar you for life.

And while you’re fighting for your life in a Center-area hospital, the trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests, not yours. Their insurance adjusters are trained to minimize your claim. Their lawyers are preparing to shift blame. Their investigators are documenting the scene—but only what helps their case.

You need more than a lawyer. You need a fighter who knows how to battle these corporate giants. You need Attorney911.

Why Center, Texas Trucking Accidents Are Different

Center sits at the crossroads of East Texas trucking corridors. Highway 96 carries timber and agricultural products from the Piney Woods to the Gulf Coast. FM 417 and US 96 connect to major freight routes serving the entire region. The distribution centers and truck stops around Center see constant heavy truck traffic—logging trucks, oilfield equipment, livestock haulers, and long-haul freight moving between Dallas, Houston, and Shreveport.

This means:

• Higher truck volume than many Texas towns
• Unique local hazards like timber trucks with shifting loads
• Familiar routes that lull drivers into complacency
• Limited emergency services in rural areas
• Local courts with experience handling trucking cases

We know Center’s trucking corridors. We know the local judges and juries. We know how to fight for East Texas families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes.

The Attorney911 Advantage: Insider Knowledge of the Trucking Industry

Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for a national defense firm. He knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers operate. He’s seen the tactics they use to minimize claims. He understands the training their adjusters receive. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.

When you call Attorney911, you’re getting a team that includes someone who used to work on the other side. We know:

• How insurance companies evaluate trucking accident claims
• What makes them offer settlements—and what makes them fight
• How they train adjusters to lowball victims
• What evidence they look for to deny claims
• How to counter every tactic they’ll use against you

This isn’t just legal representation—it’s an unfair advantage in your fight for justice.

What Happens in the First 48 Hours Can Determine Your Entire Case

Evidence in trucking accident cases disappears fast. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted within weeks. Witnesses forget details. The trucking company repairs or scraps the vehicle. Maintenance records get “lost.” Drug test results expire.

We move faster than the trucking companies. Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we:

1. Send spoliation letters to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of ALL evidence
2. Demand immediate download of ECM/black box data before it’s overwritten
3. Subpoena ELD records to prove hours of service violations
4. Secure cell phone records to document distracted driving
5. Obtain police reports and 911 call recordings
6. Canvass the accident scene for security camera footage from nearby businesses
7. Photograph all damage before vehicles are repaired or scrapped
8. Interview witnesses before memories fade
9. Hire accident reconstruction experts to analyze the crash dynamics

This aggressive approach preserves the evidence that wins cases. And it starts the moment you call us.

Every Major Trucking Corridor Around Center, Texas

We handle trucking accident cases on every major highway and freight route serving the Center area:

• Highway 96 – The primary north-south corridor through Shelby County, carrying timber, agricultural products, and long-haul freight between Lufkin and the Louisiana border
• US 96 – Connects Center to Jasper and Beaumont, a critical route for oilfield equipment and industrial freight
• FM 417 – Serves local timber operations and connects to US 96, often congested with logging trucks
• FM 139 – Rural route with limited shoulders, frequented by agricultural and oilfield trucks
• Highway 7 – East-west corridor through Center, carrying local and through traffic
• Timber industry routes – Numerous county roads and FM routes used by logging trucks with heavy, shifting loads
• Oilfield service routes – Roads connecting to the Haynesville Shale and other East Texas oil and gas operations

These corridors present unique challenges:

• Timber trucks with high centers of gravity and shifting loads that increase rollover risk
• Oilfield equipment haulers with oversized loads and specialized securement requirements
• Agricultural trucks with seasonal peaks that create congestion
• Long-haul freight drivers pushing hours of service limits to meet delivery deadlines
• Rural roads with limited shoulders, poor lighting, and wildlife hazards

We know these routes. We know the local trucking patterns. We know the specific dangers each corridor presents.

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Center Trucking Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. An 80,000-pound truck traveling at highway speeds carries 20-25 times the kinetic energy of a passenger car. When that energy transfers to your vehicle, the results are devastating.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI is one of the most common—and most devastating—injuries in trucking accidents. The extreme forces cause your brain to impact the inside of your skull, resulting in:

• Mild TBI (Concussion): Headaches, confusion, memory problems, mood changes
• Moderate TBI: Extended unconsciousness, cognitive deficits, personality changes
• Severe TBI: Permanent disability, inability to work, need for lifelong care

TBI symptoms often don’t appear immediately. You might feel “fine” after the accident, only to develop symptoms days or weeks later. That’s why immediate medical evaluation is critical—not just for your health, but for your legal case.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

When an 18-wheeler strikes your vehicle, the impact can sever or damage the spinal cord, resulting in:

• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
• Incomplete injuries: Partial loss of sensation or movement
• Complete injuries: Total loss of function below the injury site

Spinal cord injuries often require:

• Immediate surgery
• Long-term hospitalization
• Rehabilitation therapy
• Home modifications
• Assistive devices (wheelchairs, mobility aids)
• Lifelong personal care assistance

The lifetime cost of care for spinal cord injuries can exceed $5 million.

Amputations

The crushing forces in trucking accidents often result in traumatic amputations:

• Traumatic amputation: Limb severed at the scene
• Surgical amputation: Limb so severely damaged it must be removed later

Amputations require:

• Multiple surgeries
• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000 each)
• Replacement prosthetics throughout your lifetime
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Psychological counseling
• Home and vehicle modifications

Severe Burns

Trucking accidents often result in fires when:

• Fuel tanks rupture
• Electrical systems short circuit
• Hazardous materials spill and ignite

Burn injuries include:

• First-degree: Superficial damage to outer skin layer
• Second-degree: Damage to epidermis and dermis, often requiring skin grafts
• Third-degree: Full-thickness burns requiring extensive reconstruction
• Fourth-degree: Burns extending to muscle and bone, often requiring amputation

Burn treatment may involve:

• Multiple skin graft surgeries
• Scar revision procedures
• Physical therapy
• Psychological counseling
• Lifelong disfigurement

Internal Organ Damage

The extreme forces in trucking accidents can cause internal injuries that aren’t immediately visible:

• Liver lacerations
• Spleen damage requiring removal
• Kidney injuries
• Lung contusions or collapse
• Internal bleeding
• Bowel and intestinal damage

These injuries often require emergency surgery and can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents prove fatal, families are left devastated. Wrongful death claims allow surviving family members to recover compensation for:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred before death
• Pain and suffering experienced by the decedent before death
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

The Trucking Company Playbook—And How We Counter It

Trucking companies and their insurers have a well-rehearsed playbook for minimizing claims. We know every page of it because we used to work on their side. Here’s what they do—and how we counter it:

Their Tactic	What They Say	What We Do
Quick Lowball Offer	“We want to settle this quickly and fairly.”	Never accept first offer—calculate full future damages first
Deny or Minimize Injuries	“Your injuries aren’t as serious as you claim.”	Obtain comprehensive medical documentation and expert testimony
Blame the Victim	“You were speeding/on your phone/distracted.”	Investigate thoroughly; gather evidence disproving fault allegations
Delay the Process	“We need more time to investigate.”	File lawsuit to force discovery; set depositions
Use Recorded Statements	“We just need your side of the story.”	Advise clients NEVER give statements without attorney present
“Pre-Existing Condition”	“Your back problems existed before the accident.”	Apply Texas “Eggshell Skull” doctrine (take plaintiff as found)
“Gap in Treatment”	“You didn’t seek treatment for 3 weeks—clearly not injured.”	Document all treatment; explain gaps with medical records
Send Surveillance	“We’re just documenting your daily activities.”	Advise clients on appropriate conduct; expose unfair surveillance
Hire “Independent” Medical Examiner	“We need an unbiased opinion on your injuries.”	Counter with client’s treating physicians and independent experts
Drown in Paperwork	“We need additional documentation before we can proceed.”	Aggressive litigation and motion practice to force resolution

The FMCSA Regulations That Prove Negligence

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations exist to prevent exactly the kind of accidents that devastate Center families. When trucking companies violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions on our roads. Proving FMCSA violations is often the key to establishing negligence and securing maximum compensation.

Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395)

Fatigue is a factor in 31% of fatal truck crashes. FMCSA regulations limit how long drivers can operate:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour On-Duty Window: Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• 30-Minute Break: Mandatory break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: 60 hours in 7 days OR 70 hours in 8 days
• 34-Hour Restart: Can restart 60/70-hour clock with 34 consecutive hours off

How We Prove Violations:

• Subpoena ELD records showing driving time
• Obtain dispatch logs and trip records
• Analyze GPS and telematics data
• Review driver’s paper log books (if used)
• Check for pattern of violations with the carrier

Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391)

Trucking companies must ensure drivers are qualified to operate commercial vehicles safely:

• Minimum Age: 21 years old for interstate commerce
• English Proficiency: Must read and speak English sufficiently
• Medical Certification: Must pass DOT physical exam every 2 years
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): Must possess valid CDL for vehicle type
• Driving Record: Must have acceptable driving history
• Background Check: Must verify previous employment and safety record

How We Prove Violations:

• Obtain complete Driver Qualification File
• Check for missing or incomplete records
• Verify medical certification status
• Review driving record for prior violations
• Investigate hiring practices and training

Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396)

Poor maintenance causes thousands of trucking accidents each year. FMCSA requires:

• Systematic Inspection and Maintenance: Regular upkeep of all systems
• Pre-Trip Inspections: Drivers must inspect vehicles before each trip
• Post-Trip Reports: Drivers must document vehicle condition after each trip
• Annual Inspections: Comprehensive inspection of 16+ systems
• Brake System Requirements: Proper adjustment and functioning

How We Prove Violations:

• Obtain maintenance and inspection records
• Inspect the vehicle for pre-existing defects
• Review out-of-service orders and repair history
• Analyze brake adjustment records
• Check for pattern of maintenance violations

Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR Part 393)

Improperly secured cargo causes rollovers, spills, and accidents. FMCSA requires:

• Working Load Limits: Tiedowns must withstand specific forces
• Minimum Tiedowns: Based on cargo length and weight
• Specific Requirements: By cargo type (logs, metal coils, machinery, etc.)
• Performance Criteria: Must withstand forward, rearward, lateral, and downward forces

How We Prove Violations:

• Inspect cargo securement at accident scene
• Review loading company procedures
• Obtain cargo manifest and weight records
• Analyze tiedown specifications and condition
• Check for pattern of securement violations

The 15 Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents We Handle in Center, Texas

Every trucking accident is unique, but certain patterns emerge on Center’s highways and rural roads:

1. Jackknife Accidents

What Happens: The trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes.

Common Causes in Center:

• Sudden braking on Highway 96’s steep grades
• Wet or icy conditions on rural roads
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers (common with timber trucks)
• Brake system failures
• Improperly loaded cargo shifting during transit

Evidence We Gather:

• Skid mark analysis showing trailer angle
• Brake inspection records
• Weather conditions at time of accident
• ELD data showing speed before braking
• ECM data for brake application timing

2. Rollover Accidents

What Happens: The truck tips onto its side or roof, often spilling cargo across the roadway.

Common Causes in Center:

• Speeding on curves (common on FM 417 and rural routes)
• Improperly secured timber loads shifting
• Top-heavy oilfield equipment
• Overcorrection after tire blowout
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reactions

Evidence We Gather:

• ECM data for speed through curve
• Cargo manifest and securement documentation
• Load distribution records
• Driver training records on rollover prevention
• Road geometry and signage analysis

3. Underride Collisions

What Happens: A smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer, often shearing off the roof.

Types Common in Center:

• Rear Underride: Vehicle strikes back of trailer, often at intersections
• Side Underride: Vehicle impacts side of trailer during lane changes

Common Causes in Center:

• Inadequate or missing underride guards
• Worn or damaged rear impact guards
• Truck sudden stops without warning
• Low visibility conditions (fog common in East Texas)
• Wide right turns cutting off traffic

Evidence We Gather:

• Underride guard inspection and maintenance records
• Rear lighting compliance documentation
• Crash dynamics showing underride depth
• Guard installation and certification records
• Visibility conditions at accident scene

4. Rear-End Collisions

What Happens: The truck strikes the back of another vehicle or vice versa.

Common Causes in Center:

• Following too closely on Highway 96’s high-speed sections
• Driver distraction (cell phone, dispatch communications)
• Driver fatigue and delayed reaction
• Excessive speed for traffic conditions
• Brake failures from poor maintenance

Evidence We Gather:

• ECM data showing following distance and speed
• ELD data for driver fatigue analysis
• Cell phone records for distraction evidence
• Brake inspection and maintenance records
• Dashcam footage (if available)

5. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

What Happens: The truck swings wide before making a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing the vehicle.

Common Causes in Center:

• Failure to properly signal turning intention
• Inadequate mirror checks before and during turn
• Improper turn technique
• Driver inexperience with trailer tracking
• Poor intersection design (common in rural areas)

Evidence We Gather:

• Turn signal activation data from ECM
• Mirror condition and adjustment records
• Driver training records on turning procedures
• Intersection geometry analysis
• Witness statements on turn execution

6. Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)

What Happens: The truck changes lanes or maneuvers without seeing a vehicle in one of its four major blind spots.

The Four No-Zones Around Center Trucks:

1. Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
2. Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
3. Left Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward
4. Right Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward—much larger than left side

Common Causes in Center:

• Failure to check mirrors before lane changes
• Improperly adjusted or damaged mirrors
• Driver distraction during lane changes
• Failure to use turn signals
• Driver fatigue affecting situational awareness

Evidence We Gather:

• Mirror condition and adjustment at time of crash
• Lane change data from ECM/telematics
• Turn signal activation records
• Driver training on blind spot awareness
• Dashcam footage

7. Tire Blowout Accidents

What Happens: A tire suddenly fails, causing the driver to lose control.

Common Causes in Center:

• Underinflated tires (common in heat and long hauls)
• Overloaded vehicles exceeding tire capacity
• Worn or aging tires not replaced
• Road debris punctures (common on rural routes)
• Manufacturing defects
• Improper tire matching on dual wheels

Evidence We Gather:

• Tire maintenance and inspection records
• Tire age and wear documentation
• Tire inflation records and pressure checks
• Vehicle weight records (weigh station)
• Tire manufacturer and purchase records

8. Brake Failure Accidents

What Happens: The truck’s braking system fails or underperforms, preventing the driver from stopping in time.

Common Causes in Center:

• Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
• Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
• Air brake system leaks or failures
• Overheated brakes (brake fade) on long descents
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Defective brake components

Evidence We Gather:

• Brake inspection and maintenance records
• Out-of-service inspection history
• ECM data showing brake application and effectiveness
• Post-crash brake system analysis
• Driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs)

9. Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents

What Happens: Improperly secured cargo falls from the truck or shifts during transit, destabilizing the vehicle.

Common Causes in Center:

• Inadequate tiedowns (insufficient number or strength)
• Improper loading distribution
• Failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats
• Tiedown failure due to wear or damage
• Overloading beyond securement capacity
• Failure to re-inspect cargo during trip

Evidence We Gather:

• Cargo securement inspection photos
• Bill of lading and cargo manifest
• Loading company securement procedures
• Tiedown specifications and condition
• Weight distribution documentation

10. Head-On Collisions

What Happens: The truck crosses into oncoming traffic and strikes vehicles traveling in the opposite direction.

Common Causes in Center:

• Driver fatigue causing lane departure
• Driver falling asleep at the wheel
• Driver distraction (phone, GPS, dispatch)
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
• Medical emergency (heart attack, seizure)
• Overcorrection after running off road
• Passing on two-lane roads
• Wrong-way entry onto divided highways

Evidence We Gather:

• ELD data for HOS compliance and fatigue
• ECM data showing lane departure and steering
• Cell phone records for distraction
• Driver medical records and certification
• Drug and alcohol test results

11. T-Bone/Intersection Accidents

What Happens: The truck fails to yield or runs a red light, striking another vehicle broadside.

Common Causes in Center:

• Failure to obey traffic signals
• Failure to yield right-of-way
• Driver distraction
• Driver fatigue
• Speeding through intersections
• Obstructed sightlines (common in rural areas)

Evidence We Gather:

• Traffic signal timing and operation records
• Witness statements
• Surveillance camera footage
• Driver cell phone records
• ELD data for speed and braking

12. Sideswipe Accidents

What Happens: The truck changes lanes into an occupied space, striking the side of another vehicle.

Common Causes in Center:

• Failure to check blind spots
• Improper mirror adjustment
• Driver distraction
• Driver fatigue
• Failure to signal lane changes

Evidence We Gather:

• Mirror condition and adjustment records
• Lane change data from ECM/telematics
• Turn signal activation records
• Driver training on lane change procedures
• Witness statements

13. Override Accidents

What Happens: The truck drives over a smaller vehicle in front of it.

Common Causes in Center:

• Following too closely
• Brake failure
• Driver distraction
• Driver fatigue
• Speeding

Evidence We Gather:

• ECM data showing following distance
• Brake inspection records
• Cell phone records
• ELD data for fatigue analysis
• Vehicle damage patterns

14. Lost Wheel/Detached Trailer Accidents

What Happens: A wheel or trailer separates from the truck during operation.

Common Causes in Center:

• Maintenance failures
• Improper wheel installation
• Defective components
• Failure to conduct pre-trip inspections

Evidence We Gather:

• Maintenance records
• Wheel installation procedures
• Component failure analysis
• Pre-trip inspection records

15. Runaway Truck Accidents

What Happens: The truck loses braking ability on a long descent and cannot stop.

Common Causes in Center:

• Brake fade on long descents
• Failure to use runaway ramps
• Driver inexperience with mountain driving
• Overloaded vehicles
• Poor brake maintenance

Evidence We Gather:

• Brake maintenance records
• Route analysis showing descents
• Driver training records
• Vehicle weight records
• ECM data showing brake application

Who We Hold Accountable in Center Trucking Accidents

18-wheeler accidents are fundamentally different from car accidents. Multiple parties can be responsible for your injuries. We investigate and pursue claims against ALL potentially liable parties:

1. The Truck Driver

   • Direct negligence: speeding, fatigue, distraction, impairment
   • Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
   • Violation of traffic laws
   • Improper cargo securement

2. The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

   • Vicarious liability for driver’s actions
   • Negligent hiring of unqualified drivers
   • Negligent training and supervision
   • Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service
   • Negligent maintenance of vehicles
   • Failure to enforce safety policies

3. The Cargo Owner/Shipper

   • Providing improper loading instructions
   • Failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
   • Requiring overweight loading
   • Pressuring carrier to expedite beyond safe limits

4. The Cargo Loading Company

   • Improper cargo securement
   • Unbalanced load distribution
   • Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
   • Failure to use proper blocking and bracing

5. The Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

   • Design defects in vehicle systems
   • Manufacturing defects in components
   • Failure to warn of known dangers
   • Defective safety systems

6. Parts Manufacturers

   • Defective brakes or brake components
   • Defective tires causing blowouts
   • Defective steering mechanisms
   • Defective lighting components
   • Defective coupling devices

7. Maintenance Companies

   • Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
   • Failure to identify critical safety issues
   • Improper brake adjustments
   • Using substandard or wrong parts
   • Returning vehicles to service with known defects

8. Freight Brokers

   • Negligent selection of carrier with poor safety record
   • Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
   • Failure to check carrier CSA scores
   • Selecting cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

9. The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

   • Negligent entrustment of vehicle
   • Failure to maintain owned equipment
   • Knowledge of driver’s unfitness

10. Government Entities

    • Dangerous road design that contributed to accident
    • Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
    • Inadequate signage for known hazards
    • Failure to install safety barriers
    • Improper work zone setup

The Evidence That Wins Center Trucking Cases

We build your case on a foundation of irrefutable evidence. Our investigation protocol includes:

Electronic Data

• ECM/Black Box: Speed, braking, throttle position, fault codes
• ELD: Hours of service, GPS location, driving time
• GPS/Telematics: Real-time location history and route data
• Cell Phone Records: Driver’s phone usage before accident
• Dashcam Footage: Video of road ahead and cab interior
• Dispatch Records: Communications about routes and deadlines

Driver and Company Records

• Driver Qualification File: Employment application, driving record, medical certification
• Hours of Service Records: ELD logs and paper logs
• Training Records: Safety and operation training
• Drug and Alcohol Test Results: Pre-employment and random testing
• Previous Accident History: Carrier’s safety record
• CSA Scores: FMCSA safety rating and violation history

Vehicle Records

• Maintenance Records: Inspection and repair history
• Annual Inspection Reports: Comprehensive vehicle condition
• Pre-Trip and Post-Trip Inspection Reports: Driver’s daily checks
• Tire Records: Purchase, rotation, and replacement history
• Brake Inspection Records: Adjustment and component replacement
• Cargo Securement Documentation: Loading and tiedown procedures

Scene Evidence

• Police Accident Reports: Official documentation of the crash
• Photographs and Video: Vehicle damage, road conditions, injuries
• Skid Mark Analysis: Evidence of speed and braking
• Witness Statements: Independent accounts of what happened
• Security Camera Footage: From nearby businesses
• 911 Call Recordings: Emergency response documentation

Expert Analysis

• Accident Reconstruction: Engineering analysis of crash dynamics
• Medical Experts: Establishing causation and future care needs
• Vocational Experts: Calculating lost earning capacity
• Economic Experts: Determining present value of all damages
• Life Care Planners: Developing comprehensive care plans
• FMCSA Regulation Experts: Identifying all violations

The Damages You Can Recover in a Center Trucking Accident Case

Texas law allows you to recover compensation for all the ways the accident has impacted your life:

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

• 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 (Quality of Life)

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

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence)

Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company or driver acted with:

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

The Insurance Coverage That Pays Your Claim

Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance far exceeding typical auto policies:

Cargo Type	Minimum Coverage
Non-Hazardous Freight (10,001+ lbs GVWR)	$750,000
Oil/Petroleum (10,001+ lbs GVWR)	$1,000,000
Large Equipment (10,001+ lbs GVWR)	$1,000,000
Hazardous Materials	$5,000,000
Passengers (16+ passengers)	$5,000,000
Passengers (15 or fewer)	$1,500,000

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more in coverage. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Center Trucking Accident Case

25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims 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 in BP explosion litigation against multinational corporations
• Deep familiarity with Center’s trucking corridors and accident patterns
• Comprehensive understanding of FMCSA regulations

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our associate attorney 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—and what makes them fight
• How they train their people to lowball victims
• How to counter every tactic they’ll use against you

A Proven Track Record of Results

While every case is unique, our firm has achieved significant results for trucking accident victims:

• $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

Comprehensive Resources for Complex Cases

Trucking accident cases require significant resources. We have:

• Immediate access to accident reconstruction experts
• Relationships with top medical specialists
• Experience with complex litigation against multiple defendants
• Federal court experience for interstate trucking cases
• A network of experts in trucking regulations and industry practices

Personal Attention You Won’t Find at Mega-Firms

Unlike big billboard firms that treat you like a number, we treat you like family. Our clients consistently praise:

• Direct access to attorneys, not just case managers
• Regular updates on case progress
• Compassionate handling of sensitive issues
• Spanish-language services through Lupe Peña and our bilingual staff

“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

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

Local Knowledge of Center and East Texas

We know Center’s:

• Trucking corridors and freight patterns
• Local courts and judges
• Jury attitudes and expectations
• Unique local hazards (timber trucks, oilfield equipment)
• Emergency medical services and trauma centers

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Center, Texas

At the Scene

If you’re able, take these steps immediately:

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request emergency assistance
2. Seek medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out
3. Document the scene – Take photos and video of:
   • All vehicle damage (inside and out)
   • The accident scene and road conditions
   • Skid marks and debris
   • Street signs and traffic signals
   • Your injuries
4. Get information from:
   • The truck driver (name, CDL number, contact info)
   • The trucking company (name, DOT number, insurance info)
   • Witnesses (names and phone numbers)
5. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
6. Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911

In the Hospital

1. Follow all medical advice – Your health comes first
2. Document everything – Keep records of:
   • All medical visits and treatments
   • Prescriptions and medications
   • Symptoms and pain levels
   • How injuries affect your daily life
3. Do NOT post on social media – Insurance companies will use it against you
4. Keep your attorney informed – Update us on your medical progress

During Your Recovery

1. Attend all follow-up appointments – Gaps in treatment hurt your case
2. Follow your treatment plan – Skipping therapy or medication raises questions
3. Document your progress – Keep a journal of pain levels and limitations
4. Stay in communication with your attorney – We’ll handle the legal work while you focus on healing
5. Be patient – Some cases resolve quickly, others take time to reach maximum value

The Legal Process for Your Center Trucking Accident Case

Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)

• Accept your case and send preservation letters same day
• Deploy accident reconstruction expert to scene if needed
• Obtain police crash report
• Photograph client injuries with medical documentation
• Photograph all vehicles before they are repaired or scrapped
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

• Subpoena ELD/black box data downloads
• Request driver’s paper log books (backup documentation)
• Obtain complete Driver Qualification File from carrier
• Request all truck maintenance and inspection records
• Obtain carrier’s CSA safety scores and inspection history
• Order driver’s complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
• Subpoena driver’s cell phone records
• Obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules

Phase 3: Expert Analysis

• Accident reconstruction specialist creates crash analysis
• Medical experts establish causation and future care needs
• Vocational experts calculate lost earning capacity
• Economic experts determine present value of all damages
• Life care planners develop comprehensive care plans for catastrophic injuries
• FMCSA regulation experts identify all violations

Phase 4: Litigation Strategy

• File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires (2 years in Texas)
• Pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
• Depose truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, maintenance personnel
• Build case for trial while negotiating settlement from position of strength
• Prepare every case as if going to trial (creates leverage in negotiations)

Common Questions About Center Trucking Accident Cases

What should I do immediately after a trucking accident in Center?

Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene, get witness information, and call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. Do NOT give recorded statements to insurance companies.

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

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.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident?

Multiple parties may be liable:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• The cargo owner
• The loading company
• Truck or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers
• The truck owner (if different from carrier)
• Government entities (for road defects)

How much is my trucking accident case worth?

Case values depend on:

• 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.

Will my 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.

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.

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 and prove what really happened.

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.

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

If you were working at the time of the accident, you may have both a workers’ compensation claim and a third-party personal injury claim. We can help you navigate both systems to maximize your recovery.

Can I still recover if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Yes. We identify all available insurance policies and assets to ensure you can recover compensation. Many carriers have multiple layers of insurance coverage.

What if I don’t have health insurance?

We can help you get medical treatment through:

• Letters of Protection (LOP) with medical providers
• Medical liens
• Health insurance (if available)
• Government programs (Medicare, Medicaid)

Will the trucking company’s insurance try to settle quickly?

Often yes—and that’s a red flag. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries.

What if I’m an undocumented immigrant injured in a trucking accident?

Your immigration status does not affect your right to compensation. We have Spanish-language services available through Lupe Peña and our bilingual staff.

How do I prove the truck driver was fatigued?

We prove fatigue through:

• ELD records showing hours of service violations
• Dispatch records showing unrealistic schedules
• Cell phone records showing late-night communications
• Witness statements about driver behavior
• Pattern of violations with the carrier

What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?

A spoliation letter is a legal notice demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. Sending this letter immediately puts them on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.

Can I access the trucking company’s safety record?

Yes. FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain the carrier’s:

• CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
• Inspection history and out-of-service rates
• Crash history
• Safety rating

What if the truck’s dashcam recorded the accident?

Dashcam footage is critical evidence. We demand preservation of all video footage immediately, as it’s often deleted within days or weeks.

How do I prove the trucking company pressured drivers to violate hours of service?

We prove pressure through:

• Dispatch records showing unrealistic schedules
• Driver testimony about company culture
• Pattern of hours of service violations
• Internal company communications
• Incentive programs that reward fast deliveries

What if I have pre-existing conditions?

Texas follows the “Eggshell Skull” doctrine—we take you as we find you. If the accident worsened a pre-existing condition, you’re entitled to compensation for the aggravation.

Can I sue if I was partially at fault?

Yes. Texas follows modified comparative negligence. As long as you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault.

What if the trucking company destroyed evidence?

Destroying evidence after receiving notice of potential litigation is spoliation. Courts can:

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

How are future medical expenses calculated?

We work with:

• Medical experts to project future treatment needs
• Life care planners to develop comprehensive care plans
• Economic experts to determine present value of future costs

What is loss of consortium?

Loss of consortium compensates your spouse for the impact of your injuries on your marriage, including:

• Loss of companionship
• Loss of affection
• Loss of household services
• Loss of sexual relations

When are punitive damages available?

Punitive damages may be awarded when the trucking company or driver acted with:

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

How do product defects create liability?

If a defective component (brakes, tires, steering) contributed to the accident, the manufacturer may be liable under product liability law.

What if road conditions contributed to my accident?

Government entities may be liable for:

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

Can I get compensation for PTSD after a trucking accident?

Yes. PTSD and other psychological injuries are compensable. We work with mental health professionals to document and prove these injuries.

Center, Texas: A Community at the Crossroads of East Texas Trucking

Center, Texas, is more than just a small town in Shelby County—it’s a vital hub in East Texas’s trucking network. Located at the intersection of Highway 96 and FM 417, Center serves as a critical waypoint for freight moving through the region. The town’s strategic location connects the timber-rich Piney Woods to the industrial centers of Beaumont, Lufkin, and Shreveport.

The Trucking Industry in Center

Center’s economy has long been tied to industries that rely heavily on trucking:

• Timber Industry: The dense forests of East Texas feed a robust timber and paper products industry. Logging trucks constantly traverse local roads, hauling raw timber to processing facilities and finished products to market.
• Agriculture: Shelby County’s fertile soil supports cattle ranching, poultry farming, and crop production. Agricultural products require trucking for transportation to processing plants and distribution centers.
• Oil and Gas: While not as dominant as in West Texas, oil and gas operations in the Haynesville Shale and other East Texas fields generate significant truck traffic for equipment, supplies, and product transport.
• Manufacturing: Local manufacturing facilities produce a variety of goods that require trucking for distribution.
• Retail and Distribution: As a regional hub, Center serves as a distribution point for goods moving between major Texas cities and the Louisiana border.

The Unique Challenges of Center’s Trucking Corridors

The roads around Center present unique challenges for truck drivers and passenger vehicles alike:

Highway 96: This primary north-south corridor carries a mix of local and through traffic. The highway’s steep grades, particularly north of Center, create challenges for heavily loaded trucks. The section between Center and San Augustine is notorious for its rolling hills and limited passing opportunities.

US 96: Connecting Center to Jasper and Beaumont, this route carries significant oilfield equipment and industrial freight. The highway’s narrow shoulders and limited passing zones create hazards for passenger vehicles sharing the road with large trucks.

FM 417: This route serves local timber operations and connects to US 96. The road’s rural nature means limited maintenance, narrow lanes, and frequent encounters with logging trucks carrying high, shifting loads.

Rural County Roads: Many of Shelby County’s rural roads were designed for local traffic, not the heavy truck traffic they now carry. Limited shoulders, poor lighting, and wildlife hazards create additional risks.

Intersections: Center’s intersections, particularly those involving Highway 96 and FM 417, see frequent truck traffic. Wide right turns by large trucks create “squeeze play” hazards for smaller vehicles.

Local Factors That Increase Trucking Accident Risks

Several factors unique to the Center area increase the risk of trucking accidents:

1. Timber Trucks: The high center of gravity and shifting loads of logging trucks make them particularly prone to rollovers on curves and steep grades.

2. Oilfield Equipment: Oversized and overweight loads common in oilfield operations create additional hazards on local roads.

3. Seasonal Variations: Timber harvesting and agricultural cycles create seasonal peaks in truck traffic, increasing congestion and accident risks.

4. Weather Conditions: East Texas weather—heavy rain, fog, and occasional ice—creates hazardous driving conditions that affect large trucks disproportionately.

5. Driver Fatigue: Long-haul drivers passing through Center often push hours of service limits to meet delivery deadlines, increasing fatigue-related accident risks.

6. Limited Emergency Services: Rural areas around Center have limited emergency response capabilities, meaning accidents often result in longer response times and more severe outcomes.

7. Wildlife Hazards: Deer and other wildlife are common on rural roads, creating sudden hazards that can cause truck drivers to lose control.

Center’s Response to Trucking Safety

The Center community has taken steps to address trucking safety:

• Weigh Stations: The Texas Department of Transportation operates weigh stations to monitor truck weights and compliance with safety regulations.
• Commercial Vehicle Enforcement: Texas DPS troopers conduct regular commercial vehicle inspections to identify safety violations.
• Road Improvements: Ongoing projects aim to improve safety on key trucking corridors, including shoulder improvements and signage upgrades.
• Public Education: Local organizations work to educate the public about sharing the road safely with large trucks.
• Emergency Response Training: First responders receive specialized training for handling trucking accidents, including hazardous material incidents.

Despite these efforts, trucking accidents continue to devastate Center families. When these accidents occur, victims need experienced legal representation to navigate the complex web of liability and insurance issues.

The Center Community We Serve

Attorney911 is proud to serve the entire Center community and surrounding areas:

Shelby County Communities

• Center
• Timpson
• Joaquin
• Tenaha
• Huxley
• Shelbyville
• Neuville
• Paxton
• Dreka

Nearby Cities and Towns

• San Augustine
• Nacogdoches
• Lufkin
• Carthage
• Hemphill
• Jasper
• Livingston
• Crockett
• Marshall
• Shreveport, LA (just across the state line)

Local Institutions and Employers

• Shelby County Memorial Hospital
• Center Independent School District
• Shelby Regional Medical Center
• East Texas Medical Center
• Local timber companies
• Agricultural operations
• Oil and gas service companies
• Manufacturing facilities
• Retail and service businesses

Local Landmarks and Points of Interest

• Shelby County Courthouse
• Shelby County Museum
• Shelby County Fairgrounds
• Martin Creek Lake State Park
• Sabine National Forest
• Toledo Bend Reservoir
• Historic downtown Center

Center, Texas Trucking Accident Resources

Emergency Services

• Shelby County Sheriff’s Office: (936) 598-5600
• Center Police Department: (936) 598-3311
• Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): (936) 598-2161
• Shelby County Memorial Hospital: (936) 598-3331
• East Texas Medical Center: (936) 598-3331

Trucking Safety Resources

• Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): www.txdot.gov
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): www.fmcsa.dot.gov
• Texas Department of Public Safety – Commercial Vehicle Enforcement: www.dps.texas.gov
• Shelby County Sheriff’s Office – Traffic Enforcement: (936) 598-5600

Legal Resources

• Texas Bar Association: www.texasbar.com
• Texas RioGrande Legal Aid: www.trla.org (for low-income individuals)
• Texas Law Help: www.texaslawhelp.org (legal information and forms)

Support Services for Accident Victims

• Shelby County Crisis Center: (936) 598-5611
• East Texas Crisis Center: (800) 333-0358
• Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services: www.dars.state.tx.us
• Brain Injury Association of Texas: www.biatx.org
• Spinal Cord Injury Association of Texas: www.texasscia.org

Your Fight for Justice Starts with One Call

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Center, Texas, you don’t have to fight alone. The trucking companies have teams of lawyers working to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of representation.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and start building your case.

Remember:

• Evidence disappears fast – call us immediately to preserve critical data
• You pay nothing unless we win – our contingency fee means zero upfront costs
• We know how to fight trucking companies – insider knowledge from former defense attorneys
• We treat you like family – not just another case number
• We know Center – local knowledge of courts, judges, and trucking corridors

The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working against you. Don’t wait—call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 and let us start fighting for you.

“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

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