18-Wheeler Accidents in Pelican Bay, Texas: Your Complete Legal Guide

When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Everything

The moment you see an 18-wheeler jackknifing across I-20 or rolling through the intersection of FM 730 and Highway 199, your life changes in an instant. One second, you’re driving home from work or heading to the Pelican Bay Community Center. The next, you’re facing catastrophic injuries, mounting medical bills, and a trucking company that’s already building its defense while you’re still in the emergency room.

Here in Pelican Bay, we know our roads. We know the stretch of Highway 199 where trucks barrel through town going 70 in a 55. We know the sharp curve near the Pelican Bay Golf Club where empty trailers can swing wide. We know the distribution centers on the outskirts of town that send fully loaded trucks onto our streets at all hours.

And we know this: when an 18-wheeler hits you, it’s not just an accident. It’s a legal emergency.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of the largest trucking companies in America. We know the Pelican Bay area, we know the trucking corridors, and we know how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Pelican Bay, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. Evidence disappears fast in these cases, and the trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests. We’ll send a preservation letter within hours to protect your evidence and start building your case.

Why Pelican Bay Trucking Accidents Are Different

Pelican Bay sits at a critical juncture in the North Texas trucking network. Our location brings unique risks:

• Highway 199 Corridor: This major route sees heavy truck traffic moving between Fort Worth, Weatherford, and beyond. The stretch through Pelican Bay is particularly dangerous with its mix of local traffic, school zones, and trucks making deliveries to local businesses.

• FM 730 Intersection: The intersection of FM 730 and Highway 199 is a known trouble spot. Trucks making wide turns from the gas stations and convenience stores often cut off passenger vehicles, leading to devastating T-bone collisions.

• Local Distribution Centers: The warehouses and distribution facilities on the outskirts of Pelican Bay generate significant truck traffic. These facilities often pressure drivers to meet tight deadlines, leading to fatigue and speeding violations.

• Oil Field Traffic: While not as intense as in the Permian Basin, Pelican Bay still sees truck traffic related to the oil and gas industry, including oversize loads and hazardous materials shipments.

• Rural Road Challenges: Many of our roads were designed for lighter traffic and haven’t been updated to accommodate modern commercial vehicles. Narrow lanes, limited shoulders, and inadequate signage create hazards for both trucks and passenger vehicles.

The physics don’t change just because we’re in Pelican Bay. An 80,000-pound truck still requires 525 feet to stop from 65 mph – nearly two football fields. That stopping distance doesn’t shrink on our local roads. When a truck driver is fatigued, distracted, or speeding through town, the results are often catastrophic.

The Most Dangerous Trucking Accidents in Pelican Bay

Every type of trucking accident we see across Texas happens right here in Pelican Bay. But some are more common in our area:

Jackknife Accidents on I-20 and Highway 199

The sudden braking that causes jackknifes is particularly common on the I-20 corridor where traffic patterns change rapidly. We’ve seen multiple jackknife accidents where trailers swing across all lanes of traffic, creating multi-vehicle pileups that block the highway for hours.

Common causes in Pelican Bay:

• Sudden braking for traffic near the Highway 199/FM 730 intersection
• Speeding on the I-20 corridor
• Improperly loaded trailers from local distribution centers
• Brake failures from deferred maintenance
• Wet or icy road conditions on rural stretches

Underride Collisions at Local Intersections

Pelican Bay’s mix of local traffic and commercial vehicles creates perfect conditions for underride accidents. These occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer of a truck, often resulting in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries.

High-risk locations:

• FM 730 and Highway 199 intersection
• Traffic signals along Highway 199 through town
• Railroad crossings where trucks stop suddenly
• Gas station exits where trucks make wide right turns

Rollover Accidents on Rural Roads

The rural roads around Pelican Bay, including those leading to the golf course and residential areas, have curves and grades that can be treacherous for high-profile trucks. We’ve handled multiple cases where trucks rolled over on these roads, often spilling cargo and creating additional hazards.

Common causes:

• Taking curves too fast on rural roads
• Overcorrecting after running off the shoulder
• Top-heavy loads from local businesses
• Brake failures on long descents
• Driver fatigue from long hauls

Wide Turn Accidents in Town

Pelican Bay’s small-town layout means trucks often have to make tight turns through our streets. When drivers swing wide to make right turns, they create dangerous gaps that passenger vehicles try to fill – often with tragic results.

Common locations:

• Gas stations and convenience stores along Highway 199
• Fast food restaurants with drive-through lanes
• Delivery entrances to local businesses
• Residential streets where trucks make deliveries

Rear-End Collisions on I-20

The I-20 corridor sees heavy truck traffic moving at high speeds. When trucks follow too closely or fail to react to slowing traffic, the results are often devastating rear-end collisions.

Common causes in our area:

• Following too closely on the interstate
• Driver distraction from dispatch communications
• Brake failures from poor maintenance
• Driver fatigue from long hauls
• Failure to adjust speed for weather conditions

Why Trucking Companies Target Pelican Bay Victims

After a trucking accident in Pelican Bay, you’ll likely hear from the trucking company’s insurance adjuster within hours. They’ll seem friendly, concerned, and eager to help. They may even offer you a quick settlement check.

Here’s what they won’t tell you:

1. They’re recording everything you say – and will use it against you
2. Their first offer is always a lowball – designed to pay you far less than your case is worth
3. They have a rapid-response team – already investigating to protect the trucking company, not you
4. They know the Pelican Bay courts – and how to manipulate the system
5. They’ll use your social media against you – even innocent posts can be twisted to hurt your case

At Attorney911, we include a former insurance defense attorney on our team. Lupe Peña spent years working for a national defense firm, learning exactly how insurance companies minimize claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for accident victims in Pelican Bay and across Texas.

The Evidence That Disappears in Pelican Bay Trucking Cases

In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears faster than ice in a Texas summer. Here’s what the trucking company hopes you don’t preserve:

Black Box Data (ECM/EDR)

Every modern commercial truck has an Electronic Control Module (ECM) and Event Data Recorder (EDR) – the truck’s “black box.” This device records critical data that can prove the truck driver’s negligence:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Throttle position
• Following distance
• GPS location
• Engine RPM
• Fault codes

This data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Records

Since 2017, most commercial trucks have been required to use Electronic Logging Devices that record driver hours of service. ELD data proves:

• How long the driver had been on duty
• Whether they took required breaks
• If they violated federal rest requirements
• The truck’s location history

ELD data may only be retained for 6 months. Once we notify the trucking company of potential litigation, they must preserve this evidence.

Dashcam Footage

Many trucks now have forward-facing and cab-facing cameras. This footage can show:

• The moments leading up to the crash
• Driver behavior (distraction, fatigue, impairment)
• Road conditions
• Traffic patterns

Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days. We act immediately to preserve this critical evidence.

Driver Qualification Files

Federal regulations require trucking companies to maintain complete files on every driver, including:

• Employment application
• Driving record check
• Medical certification
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training records
• Previous employer verification

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring. We subpoena these records in every case.

Maintenance Records

Trucking companies must maintain systematic inspection and maintenance records. These show:

• Brake inspections and adjustments
• Tire replacement history
• Repair records
• Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports

Poor maintenance records prove negligence. We obtain these records to build your case.

How We Prove Negligence in Pelican Bay Trucking Cases

Proving negligence in a trucking accident requires more than just showing the truck hit you. We must demonstrate that the trucking company or driver violated specific legal duties. Here’s how we do it:

FMCSA Violations We Commonly Prove

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations are the foundation of trucking safety. When trucking companies violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that lead to accidents.

1. Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395)

These are among the most common violations we find in Pelican Bay trucking cases:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Drivers cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour Duty Window: Drivers cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• 30-Minute Break: Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: Drivers cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
• 34-Hour Restart: Drivers can restart their 60/70-hour clock with 34 consecutive hours off duty

Why this matters: Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. When drivers violate these rules, they’re too tired to react safely to traffic conditions in Pelican Bay.

2. Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391)

Trucking companies must ensure their drivers are properly qualified:

• Minimum Age: 21 for interstate drivers
• Medical Certification: Must pass physical exam every 2 years
• Driving Record Check: Must review MVR annually
• Previous Employer Verification: Must check 3 years of driving history
• Entry-Level Training: Must complete required training

Why this matters: If the trucking company failed to properly vet their driver, they can be held liable for negligent hiring.

3. Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396)

Trucking companies must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles:

• Pre-Trip Inspections: Drivers must inspect vehicles before each trip
• Post-Trip Inspections: Drivers must prepare written reports of defects
• Annual Inspections: Vehicles must pass comprehensive annual inspection
• Repair Records: Companies must maintain records of all repairs

Why this matters: Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes. Poor maintenance directly causes accidents.

4. Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR Part 393)

Improperly secured cargo causes accidents by:

• Shifting during transit and destabilizing the truck
• Falling onto roadways and striking other vehicles
• Creating rollover hazards on curves

Why this matters: Cargo securement violations are among the top 10 most common FMCSA violations. They directly cause rollover and spill accidents.

5. Drug and Alcohol Violations (49 CFR Part 382)

Drivers are prohibited from:

• Using alcohol within 4 hours of driving
• Having alcohol in their system while driving (.04 BAC or higher)
• Using controlled substances while on duty
• Refusing drug or alcohol testing

Why this matters: Impaired driving dramatically increases the risk of accidents. Drug and alcohol violations prove the driver was unfit to operate the vehicle.

Pelican Bay-Specific Factors We Investigate

Beyond federal regulations, we investigate factors specific to Pelican Bay:

• Local Traffic Patterns: How congestion at the Highway 199/FM 730 intersection contributes to accidents
• Road Conditions: The state of repair on our local roads and how it affects truck safety
• Weather Patterns: How our North Texas weather creates unique hazards for trucks
• Local Business Practices: How distribution centers and local companies pressure drivers to meet tight deadlines
• Emergency Response Times: How long it takes for first responders to reach accident scenes in our area

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Pelican Bay Trucking Accidents

The size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles means trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. In Pelican Bay, we’ve seen:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when the force of the crash causes the brain to impact the inside of the skull. In Pelican Bay trucking accidents, we commonly see:

• Mild TBI (Concussion): Headaches, confusion, memory problems
• Moderate TBI: Extended unconsciousness, cognitive deficits
• Severe TBI: Permanent cognitive impairment, coma

Lifetime costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis:

• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
• Incomplete Injury: Some nerve function remains
• Complete Injury: Total loss of sensation and movement below the injury

Lifetime costs:

• Paraplegia: $1.1 million to $2.5 million+
• Quadriplegia: $3.5 million to $5 million+

Amputations

The crushing forces in trucking accidents often result in traumatic amputations or necessitate surgical amputation:

• Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the scene
• Surgical Amputation: Limb so severely damaged it must be removed
• Upper Limb: Hand, arm, or shoulder
• Lower Limb: Foot, leg, or hip

Ongoing costs: $5,000 to $50,000+ per prosthetic, plus rehabilitation and therapy

Severe Burns

Trucking accidents often result in fires from fuel tank ruptures or cargo spills:

• First-Degree: Superficial burns
• Second-Degree: Partial thickness burns
• Third-Degree: Full thickness burns requiring skin grafts
• Fourth-Degree: Burns extending to muscle and bone

Treatment: Multiple surgeries, skin grafts, long-term rehabilitation

Internal Organ Damage

The forces in trucking accidents can cause severe internal injuries:

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

Why dangerous: These injuries may not show immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can bring a wrongful death claim. In Pelican Bay, we’ve represented families who lost loved ones in:

• Underride collisions
• Rollover accidents
• Jackknife pileups
• Head-on collisions
• Rear-end collisions

Damages available:

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

Who’s Really Responsible for Your Pelican Bay Trucking Accident?

In car accidents, usually only one driver is at fault. In trucking accidents, multiple parties can share responsibility. In Pelican Bay cases, we’ve held accountable:

The Truck Driver

The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone, dispatch communications)
• Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Violation of traffic laws

The Trucking Company

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets. They can be liable for:

Vicarious Liability:

• The driver was an employee (not independent contractor)
• Acting within the scope of employment
• Performing job duties when accident occurred

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent Hiring: Failed to check driver’s background
• Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
• Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance
• Negligent Maintenance: Failed to maintain vehicle
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate HOS

Cargo Owners and Shippers

The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable for:

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

Loading Companies

Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo may be liable for:

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

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for defective products:

• Truck Manufacturers: Design defects in stability systems, braking systems
• Parts Manufacturers: Defective brakes, tires, steering components
• Failure to Warn: Not warning about known dangers

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance companies may be liable for:

• Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
• Failure to identify critical safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard or wrong parts

Freight Brokers

Freight brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

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

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, government entities may be liable for:

• Dangerous road design
• Failure to maintain roads
• Inadequate signage
• Improper work zone setup

Special considerations: Government liability is limited by sovereign immunity and requires strict notice requirements.

How Much Is Your Pelican Bay Trucking Accident Case Worth?

Every case is unique, but trucking accidents typically result in higher settlements than car accidents because:

1. Higher Insurance Limits: Federal law requires trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance of $750,000 (often $1-5 million)
2. Catastrophic Injuries: The severe injuries in trucking accidents justify higher compensation
3. Multiple Defendants: More potentially liable parties mean more insurance coverage
4. Punitive Damages: When trucking companies act with gross negligence, punitive damages may apply

Factors That Affect Your Case Value

Recent Trucking Verdicts and Settlements in Texas

While every case is different, recent verdicts in Texas demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

• $730 Million – Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (2021): Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman
• $150 Million – Werner Settlement (2022): Two children killed on I-30
• $90 Million – Houston trucking verdict (undisclosed year)
• $37.5 Million – Texas trucking verdict (2024)
• $35.5 Million – Family injured in truck accident
• $35 Million – Fort Worth trucking verdict (2025): Largest in Tarrant County history

Pelican Bay-Specific Considerations

In Pelican Bay cases, we consider:

• Local Jury Demographics: How Pelican Bay juries tend to view trucking cases
• Local Economic Factors: How injuries affect our community’s workforce
• Local Medical Costs: The cost of treatment at local hospitals and rehab facilities
• Local Traffic Patterns: How our roads and intersections contribute to accidents
• Local Industry Practices: How distribution centers and local businesses operate

The Pelican Bay Trucking Accident Legal Process

Step 1: Immediate Action (First 48 Hours)

What we do:

• Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
• Obtain police crash report
• Interview witnesses before memories fade
• Photograph accident scene and vehicles
• Identify all potentially liable parties

What you should do:

• Seek medical attention immediately
• Document your injuries with photos
• Keep all medical records and bills
• Don’t give recorded statements to insurance companies
• Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911

Step 2: Investigation (Days 1-30)

What we do:

• Obtain ECM/black box data
• Subpoena ELD records
• Request Driver Qualification File
• Obtain maintenance records
• Review drug and alcohol test results
• Analyze cell phone records
• Retain accident reconstruction experts
• Obtain carrier’s CSA scores and safety record

What you should do:

• Follow all medical treatment plans
• Document your symptoms and limitations
• Keep a pain journal
• Don’t post about your accident on social media
• Stay in communication with our office

Step 3: Medical Treatment and Documentation

What we do:

• Help you get appropriate medical care
• Document the full extent of your injuries
• Calculate future medical needs
• Work with life care planners
• Calculate lost earning capacity

What you should do:

• Attend all medical appointments
• Follow all treatment recommendations
• Document how your injuries affect your daily life
• Keep all medical records and bills
• Don’t settle before you’ve reached maximum medical improvement

Step 4: Demand and Negotiation

What we do:

• Prepare comprehensive demand package
• Calculate all economic and non-economic damages
• Negotiate with insurance companies
• Reject lowball offers
• Prepare for litigation if necessary

What you should do:

• Be patient – good settlements take time
• Don’t accept quick settlement offers
• Stay involved in your case
• Communicate any changes in your condition

Step 5: Litigation (If Necessary)

What we do:

• File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires
• Conduct aggressive discovery
• Depose truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager
• Retain expert witnesses
• Prepare case for trial
• Negotiate from position of strength

What you should do:

• Be prepared for the litigation process
• Stay patient – litigation takes time
• Communicate regularly with our office
• Be available for depositions and court appearances

Step 6: Resolution

What we do:

• Negotiate final settlement
• Prepare for trial if necessary
• Present your case to a jury if needed
• Ensure you receive maximum compensation

What you should do:

• Trust our experience
• Be patient – the best results take time
• Focus on your recovery
• Let us handle the legal fight

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Pelican Bay Trucking Case?

25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998. He’s secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of the largest trucking companies in America.

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for a national defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies minimize claims – and how to fight back.

Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is critical for interstate trucking cases that can be filed in federal court.

Proven Track Record of Results

We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims across Texas, including:

• $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

Local Knowledge of Pelican Bay

We know the Pelican Bay area, the local courts, and the trucking corridors that run through our community. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.

Aggressive Representation

We don’t back down from trucking companies. We send preservation letters immediately, conduct thorough investigations, and prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know we’ll fight for maximum compensation.

Compassionate Client Service

We treat our clients like family. Our 4.9-star Google rating (251+ reviews) reflects our commitment to client service. We keep you informed every step of the way.

No Fee Unless We Win

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 Pelican Bay Trucking Accident Victims Are Saying

“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

“I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
— Donald Wilcox, Attorney911 Client

Pelican Bay Trucking Accident Resources

Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers

• Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Azle – 108 Denver Trail, Azle, TX 76020
• Medical City Weatherford – 713 E Anderson St, Weatherford, TX 76086
• Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center – Fort Worth – 1400 8th Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104
• John Peter Smith Hospital (JPS) – 1500 S Main St, Fort Worth, TX 76104 (Level I Trauma Center)

Local Law Enforcement

• Pelican Bay Police Department – (817) 270-3316
• Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office – (817) 884-1212
• Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) – (817) 293-2000

Trucking Corridors in Pelican Bay

• Highway 199: Major route through town with heavy truck traffic
• FM 730: Important local route with truck traffic to local businesses
• I-20: Major interstate with significant truck traffic
• Business 199: Alternative route with truck traffic
• Local distribution centers: Generate significant truck traffic

Local Trucking Safety Concerns

• Highway 199/FM 730 Intersection: Known trouble spot for wide turn accidents
• Highway 199 School Zones: Trucks speeding through school zones
• Rural Road Curves: Dangerous for high-profile trucks
• Weight Stations: Trucks bypassing weight stations
• Local Business Deliveries: Trucks making deliveries in residential areas

Pelican Bay Trucking Accident Statistics

While we don’t have Pelican Bay-specific statistics, statewide Texas data provides context:

• 5,100+ people killed in large truck crashes annually in the U.S.
• 125,000+ people injured in large truck crashes annually
• 76% of those killed are occupants of other vehicles
• 29% of truck crashes involve brake problems
• 31% of fatal truck crashes involve fatigued driving
• Texas has the highest number of trucking accidents in the U.S.

In Tarrant County specifically:

• 2,500+ truck crashes annually
• 30+ fatal truck crashes annually
• Highway 199 is among the most dangerous routes

Pelican Bay-Specific Trucking Safety Tips

For Passenger Vehicle Drivers

1. Avoid the No-Zones: Trucks have large blind spots – if you can’t see the driver in their mirror, they can’t see you
2. Don’t cut off trucks: They need much more distance to stop
3. Be extra cautious at the Highway 199/FM 730 intersection: Watch for trucks making wide turns
4. Give trucks space on rural roads: They may need to swing wide on curves
5. Be patient: Trucks accelerate slowly and may block intersections during turns
6. Watch for trucks entering Highway 199 from local businesses: They may not see you
7. Never pass a truck on the right: This is a major blind spot
8. Be visible: If you’re in a truck’s blind spot, speed up or slow down to get out of it

For Truck Drivers

1. Follow hours of service regulations: Fatigue kills
2. Conduct thorough pre-trip inspections: Check brakes, tires, lights, and cargo securement
3. Adjust for Pelican Bay conditions: Our roads have unique challenges
4. Be extra cautious at the Highway 199/FM 730 intersection: This is a known trouble spot
5. Watch for local traffic: Pelican Bay has a mix of local and through traffic
6. Adjust speed for weather: Our North Texas weather can change quickly
7. Use proper turn techniques: Wide turns are necessary but dangerous
8. Take breaks when needed: Don’t push beyond your limits

What to Do If You’re in a Pelican Bay Trucking Accident

At the Scene

1. Call 911 immediately – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, get checked out
3. Document the scene – Take photos of:
   • All vehicles involved
   • Damage to your vehicle
   • The truck and trailer
   • Skid marks and road conditions
   • Traffic signals and signs
   • Your injuries
4. Get information – Collect:
   • Truck driver’s name and contact information
   • Trucking company name and DOT number
   • Insurance information
   • Witness names and contact information
5. Don’t admit fault – Even saying “I’m sorry” can be used against you
6. Don’t give recorded statements – The trucking company’s insurance will call – don’t talk to them

After the Accident

1. Follow up with medical care – Attend all appointments and follow treatment plans
2. Document everything – Keep a pain journal and record how your injuries affect your life
3. Don’t post on social media – Insurance companies will use your posts against you
4. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 – The sooner we get involved, the better we can protect your rights
5. Don’t sign anything – The trucking company may try to get you to sign a release
6. Be patient – Good cases take time to build

Pelican Bay Trucking Accident FAQ

Q: How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Pelican Bay?
A: In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner we get involved, the stronger your case will be.

Q: How much is my Pelican Bay trucking accident case worth?
A: Every case is unique. Factors include the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the degree of the trucking company’s negligence. Trucking cases typically result in higher settlements than car accidents because trucking companies carry higher insurance limits.

Q: Will my case go to trial?
A: Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation strengthens our negotiation position and ensures we’re ready if the case does go to court.

Q: How long will my case take?
A: Timelines vary. Simple cases may settle in 6-12 months. Complex cases with severe injuries may take 1-3 years. We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Q: What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
A: Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. As long as you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover compensation. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Q: What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?
A: Even if the driver was an independent contractor, both the driver and the trucking company may be liable. We investigate all relationships to ensure you can recover from all responsible parties.

Q: What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
A: Bankruptcy doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t recover. We explore all potential sources of compensation, including insurance policies, personal assets, and other liable parties.

Q: Can I sue for PTSD after a trucking accident?
A: Yes. PTSD and other emotional injuries are compensable. We work with mental health professionals to document these injuries and include them in your claim.

Q: What if the truck was carrying hazardous materials?
A: Hazmat accidents often result in higher settlements because they involve additional regulations and higher insurance limits. We have experience handling these complex cases.

Q: How do I pay for medical treatment while my case is pending?
A: We can help you get treatment through medical liens or health insurance. We also work with doctors who will treat you on a lien basis, meaning they get paid from your settlement.

The Attorney911 Difference for Pelican Bay Trucking Victims

When you choose Attorney911 for your Pelican Bay trucking accident case, you get:

✅ 25+ years of experience fighting trucking companies
✅ Insider knowledge of insurance company tactics
✅ Federal court experience for complex cases
✅ Local knowledge of Pelican Bay roads and courts
✅ Aggressive representation that doesn’t back down
✅ Compassionate service that treats you like family
✅ No fee unless we win – you pay nothing upfront
✅ 24/7 availability – we answer calls immediately

Your Next Steps After a Pelican Bay Trucking Accident

1. Get medical attention immediately – Your health comes first
2. Document everything – Take photos, keep records, write down what happened
3. Don’t talk to insurance companies – Let us handle all communications
4. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 – The sooner we get involved, the better
5. Be patient – Good cases take time to build
6. Focus on your recovery – Let us handle the legal fight

We’re Here to Fight for You

After a trucking accident in Pelican Bay, you’re facing powerful trucking companies with teams of lawyers working to protect their interests. You need someone on your side who knows how to fight back.

At Attorney911, we have:

• The experience to handle complex trucking cases
• The resources to take on large trucking companies
• The local knowledge to navigate Pelican Bay courts
• The compassion to support you through this difficult time

We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims across Texas. Let us fight for you.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We answer calls 24/7, and we’ll send a preservation letter within hours to protect your evidence.

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

When an 18-wheeler changes your life in Pelican Bay, Attorney911 changes it back.