18-Wheeler Accident Attorney in Ward County: Holding Trucking Companies Accountable
Every year, thousands of Texans are injured in catastrophic 18-wheeler accidents on our highways. If you or a loved one has been seriously hurt in a trucking accident in Ward County, you need an experienced attorney who understands the complex federal regulations governing commercial vehicles and knows how to hold negligent trucking companies fully accountable.
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across West Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. When you call us, you’re getting a team that includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies try to minimize claims—and how to stop them.
Why Ward County 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different
Ward County’s position along major trucking corridors creates unique risks for local drivers. The I-20 corridor carries massive freight volumes between El Paso, Midland-Odessa, and the East Texas petrochemical hubs. Local highways like US-87 and FM 1788 see heavy truck traffic serving the county’s oilfield operations, agricultural producers, and distribution centers.
These trucks aren’t just passing through—they’re stopping at local facilities, making wide turns at rural intersections, and navigating Ward County’s mix of highway speeds and local traffic patterns. When accidents happen here, they often involve:
- Oilfield service trucks with specialized equipment
- Agricultural haulers transporting livestock or produce
- Tanker trucks carrying fuel or chemicals
- Overloaded or improperly secured flatbeds
- Fatigued drivers pushing through long hauls
The physics of these accidents are devastating. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—20 to 25 times more than the average passenger vehicle. At highway speeds, that massive weight translates into catastrophic force that can crush smaller vehicles, causing traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, and wrongful death.
The Most Dangerous Trucking Accidents in Ward County
Our attorneys have handled every type of 18-wheeler accident that occurs on Ward County roads:
Jackknife Accidents
When a truck’s trailer swings out at a sharp angle to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic. These typically occur when drivers brake suddenly on wet or icy roads, or when empty trailers lose traction. In Ward County’s variable weather conditions, jackknifes are a constant risk, especially on I-20 where sudden weather changes can catch drivers by surprise.
Underride Collisions
Among the deadliest trucking accidents, underride collisions occur when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer. The trailer’s height often shears off the top of the passenger vehicle, causing decapitation or catastrophic head injuries. These accidents are particularly common at intersections and during sudden stops on Ward County’s rural highways.
Rollover Accidents
Trucks can tip over when taking curves too fast, when cargo shifts unexpectedly, or when drivers overcorrect after a tire blowout. Ward County’s mix of highway speeds and local roads with tighter curves creates rollover risks, especially for tanker trucks carrying liquid cargo that can slosh and destabilize the vehicle.
Rear-End Collisions
The massive stopping distance required for 18-wheelers—up to 525 feet at 65 mph—makes rear-end collisions a constant danger. Distracted, fatigued, or speeding truck drivers may not react in time to traffic slowdowns, especially on I-20 where sudden congestion can occur near Monahans or Pyote.
Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)
When trucks swing wide to make right turns, creating gaps that other vehicles try to enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing the smaller vehicle. These are especially common in Ward County’s smaller communities where trucks must navigate tighter intersections while serving local businesses.
Blind Spot Collisions
Trucks have four major blind spots (No-Zones): directly in front, directly behind, and along both sides (especially the right side). Drivers who fail to check these areas before changing lanes or turning can easily strike vehicles they never saw. On Ward County’s two-lane highways, these blind spots create particular dangers.
Tire Blowout Accidents
Ward County’s extreme temperature variations—from freezing winter mornings to scorching summer afternoons—put tremendous stress on truck tires. Blowouts can cause sudden loss of control, especially for steer tires, leading to jackknifes, rollovers, or collisions with other vehicles.
Brake Failure Accidents
Poorly maintained brake systems can fail completely or lose effectiveness, especially on long descents. Ward County’s terrain includes gradual grades that can cause brake fade when drivers don’t properly manage their speed and braking.
Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents
Improperly secured cargo can fall from trucks or shift during transit, causing rollovers or creating roadway hazards. In Ward County, this includes everything from oilfield equipment to agricultural products to construction materials being transported to local job sites.
Head-On Collisions
When trucks cross center lines or enter highways the wrong way, the results are almost always catastrophic. These accidents often occur when fatigued drivers drift across lanes or when drivers attempt unsafe passing maneuvers on two-lane highways.
The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Ward County Trucking Cases
The force of an 18-wheeler collision often causes injuries far more severe than typical car accidents:
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Even “mild” TBIs can cause lifelong cognitive impairment. Severe TBIs often require 24/7 care, with lifetime costs exceeding $3 million. In Ward County, where medical resources may be limited, these injuries create additional challenges for families trying to access specialized care.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
Spinal cord damage can result in paraplegia or quadriplegia. The lifetime care costs for these injuries range from $1.1 million to over $5 million. For Ward County residents, this often means relocating to larger cities for proper treatment and rehabilitation.
Amputations
Crushing injuries or severe burns often require surgical amputation. Prosthetics alone can cost $50,000 or more, with replacements needed throughout the victim’s lifetime. The physical and psychological impact on victims and their families is profound.
Severe Burns
Fuel tank ruptures or cargo fires can cause third- and fourth-degree burns requiring multiple skin graft surgeries. The pain, scarring, and psychological trauma from these injuries last a lifetime.
Internal Organ Damage
The massive forces in trucking accidents can rupture organs, causing internal bleeding that may not be immediately apparent. These injuries often require emergency surgery and can be life-threatening.
Wrongful Death
When trucking accidents kill, families face not only emotional devastation but also the loss of financial support. Wrongful death claims in Texas can include compensation for lost income, loss of companionship, funeral expenses, and more.
Holding ALL Responsible Parties Accountable
One of the biggest mistakes accident victims make is assuming only the truck driver is responsible. In reality, multiple parties may share liability:
The Truck Driver
Direct negligence like speeding, distraction, fatigue, or impairment creates driver liability. In Ward County, we often see drivers who are unfamiliar with local road conditions or who push beyond safe limits to meet tight delivery schedules.
The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)
Trucking companies are often the deepest pockets and can be held liable through:
- Vicarious liability for driver actions within the scope of employment
- Negligent hiring for failing to properly vet drivers
- Negligent training for inadequate safety instruction
- Negligent supervision for failing to monitor driver performance
- Negligent maintenance for poor vehicle upkeep
Cargo Owners and Shippers
Companies that own the cargo may be liable if they:
- Provided improper loading instructions
- Failed to disclose hazardous cargo properties
- Required overweight or improperly balanced loads
- Pressured carriers to meet unrealistic delivery deadlines
Loading Companies
Third-party loading companies can be liable for:
- Improper cargo securement
- Unbalanced load distribution
- Exceeding weight ratings
- Failing to use proper blocking and bracing
Truck and Parts Manufacturers
When equipment defects contribute to accidents, manufacturers may be liable through product liability claims. This includes:
- Defective brake systems
- Faulty tires
- Malfunctioning safety systems
- Defective steering components
Maintenance Companies
Third-party maintenance providers can be liable for:
- Negligent repairs
- Failure to identify safety issues
- Using substandard parts
- Returning vehicles to service with known defects
Freight Brokers
Brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:
- Negligent selection of unsafe carriers
- Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
- Ignoring carrier safety records
Government Entities
In limited cases, government entities may share liability for:
- Dangerous road design
- Failure to maintain safe roads
- Inadequate signage or warnings
- Improper work zone setup
Our investigation process leaves no stone unturned. We identify every potentially liable party to maximize your recovery.
The Critical Evidence We Preserve in Ward County Cases
Evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act fast, critical evidence will be lost forever.
Electronic Data That Can Be Overwritten
- ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, throttle position, and other critical data that can be overwritten in as little as 30 days
- ELD Records: Electronic logs showing hours of service that may only be retained for 6 months
- GPS/Telematics: Real-time location and speed data that can prove route violations
- Dashcam Footage: Video evidence that is often deleted within 7-14 days
Physical Evidence That Can Be Altered
- The Truck and Trailer: May be repaired or sold before inspection
- Failed Components: Tires, brakes, or other parts may be discarded
- Cargo and Securement Devices: May be removed or altered
Documentary Evidence That Can Be Destroyed
- Driver Qualification Files: May be incomplete or altered
- Maintenance Records: May be falsified or “lost”
- Dispatch Records: May show pressure to violate regulations
- Drug/Alcohol Test Results: May be manipulated
Witness Evidence That Fades
- Eyewitness Memories: Fade quickly without proper documentation
- First Responder Observations: May not be properly recorded
That’s why we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained. This legal notice demands that the trucking company preserve all evidence and creates serious consequences if they destroy anything.
The FMCSA Regulations That Prove Negligence
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates every aspect of commercial trucking. When trucking companies violate these regulations, they create the dangerous conditions that cause accidents. Proving these violations is often the key to winning your case.
Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395)
Fatigue is a factor in 31% of fatal truck crashes. FMCSA regulations limit driving time:
- 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: Required 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 reset weekly limits with 34 consecutive hours off
ELD data proves whether drivers violated these rules. We’ve seen cases where drivers falsified logs to hide violations, only to have the electronic data expose the truth.
Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391)
Trucking companies must maintain a Driver Qualification File for every driver containing:
- Employment application and background check
- Driving record from state licensing authority
- Road test certificate or equivalent
- Medical examiner’s certificate
- Annual driving record review
- Previous employer inquiries
- Drug and alcohol test records
Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring. We’ve uncovered cases where companies hired drivers with suspended licenses or histories of reckless driving.
Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396)
Trucking companies must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles. This includes:
- Pre-Trip Inspections: Drivers must inspect vehicles before each trip
- Post-Trip Reports: Drivers must document vehicle condition after each trip
- Annual Inspections: Comprehensive inspections covering 16+ systems
- Maintenance Records: Must be retained for 1 year
Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes. We’ve seen cases where companies deferred maintenance to save money, with catastrophic results.
Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR Part 393)
Cargo must be secured to withstand:
- Forward Force: 0.8 g deceleration (sudden stop)
- Rearward Force: 0.5 g acceleration
- Lateral Force: 0.5 g (side-to-side)
- Downward Force: 20% of cargo weight
Improper securement causes rollovers and spills. We’ve handled cases where unsecured cargo shifted during transit, causing the truck to tip over.
The Insurance Coverage Available in Trucking Cases
Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance far exceeding typical auto policies:
| Cargo Type | Minimum Coverage |
|---|---|
| Non-Hazardous Freight | $750,000 |
| Oil/Petroleum | $1,000,000 |
| Large Equipment | $1,000,000 |
| Hazardous Materials | $5,000,000 |
| Passengers (16+) | $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.
What Your Ward County Trucking Accident Case Is Worth
Case values depend on many factors, but trucking cases typically settle for significantly more than car accidents due to the higher insurance limits and more severe injuries:
| Injury Type | Typical Settlement Range |
|---|---|
| Soft Tissue Injuries | $50,000 – $200,000 |
| Herniated Disc (Non-Surgical) | $100,000 – $300,000 |
| Herniated Disc (With Surgery) | $300,000 – $1,000,000+ |
| Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate) | $500,000 – $3,000,000 |
| Traumatic Brain Injury (Severe) | $1,500,000 – $10,000,000+ |
| Spinal Cord Injury (Paraplegia) | $1,000,000 – $5,000,000+ |
| Spinal Cord Injury (Quadriplegia) | $3,000,000 – $10,000,000+ |
| Amputation | $500,000 – $3,000,000+ |
| Wrongful Death | $1,000,000 – $10,000,000+ |
These ranges represent settlements and verdicts we’ve seen in Texas trucking cases. The specific value of your case will depend on:
- The severity of your injuries
- The degree of the trucking company’s negligence
- The insurance coverage available
- Your lost income and earning capacity
- Your pain and suffering
- The skill of your legal representation
The Nuclear Verdict Trend in Trucking Cases
In recent years, juries have been awarding unprecedented damages in trucking cases when they find egregious negligence:
- $462 Million (2024, Missouri): Underride collision that decapitated two victims
- $160 Million (2024, Alabama): Rollover accident that left driver quadriplegic
- $141.5 Million (2023, Florida): Case against defunct carrier
- $730 Million (2021, Texas): Oversize load killed 73-year-old woman
- $150 Million (2022, Texas): Settlement for two children killed on I-30
These verdicts demonstrate that juries are fed up with trucking companies that prioritize profits over safety. Insurance companies know this, which is why they often settle cases for substantial amounts when we demonstrate a willingness to go to trial.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Ward County Trucking Case
25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience
Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s handled cases against major carriers like Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS.
Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff
Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for a national defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims—and now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.
Federal Court Experience
We’re admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, giving us the ability to handle interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court.
Multi-Million Dollar Results
We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims, including:
- $5+ Million settlement for traumatic brain injury from logging accident
- $3.8+ Million settlement for amputation following car accident with medical complications
- $2.5+ Million recovery in truck crash case
- Millions recovered for families in wrongful death trucking cases
Bilingual Services
Hablamos Español. Our team includes Spanish-speaking attorneys and staff who can communicate directly with Spanish-speaking clients, eliminating the need for interpreters.
Three Texas Office Locations
With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we’re never far from Ward County when you need us.
24/7 Availability
Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. We answer calls immediately and can deploy to accident scenes when necessary.
No Fee Unless We Win
We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation.
What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Ward County
If you’ve been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident, follow these steps:
- Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel okay, get checked out immediately
- Document the Scene – Take photos of all vehicles, the accident scene, road conditions, and your injuries
- Get Driver and Company Information – Collect the truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info, plus the trucking company’s name and DOT number
- Collect Witness Information – Get names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the accident
- Don’t Give Statements – Do not give recorded statements to insurance adjusters
- Call Attorney911 Immediately – 1-888-ATTY-911
The most important thing is to call us as soon as possible. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner we can send spoliation letters and begin our investigation, the stronger your case will be.
Common Questions About Ward County Trucking Accidents
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Texas?
Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly, and your case will be much stronger if we can investigate while the evidence is still fresh.
What if the truck driver says I caused the accident?
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation as long as you were less than 50% responsible. Our job is to investigate thoroughly and prove what really happened.
How much is my trucking accident case worth?
Every case is unique. Factors include the severity of your injuries, the degree of the trucking company’s negligence, the insurance coverage available, and your lost income. We’ve seen cases range from hundreds of thousands to tens of millions of dollars.
Will my case go to trial?
Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation creates leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready to take your case to court if necessary.
What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
Even if the trucking company goes out of business, their insurance company remains responsible. We also investigate whether other parties (cargo owners, brokers, manufacturers) share liability.
Can I still recover if I was partially at fault?
Yes, as long as you were less than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, you would recover 80% of your damages.
What if I don’t have health insurance?
We can connect you with medical providers who will treat you on a lien basis, meaning they’ll get paid from your settlement rather than requiring upfront payment.
How long will my case take?
Simple cases may settle in 6-12 months. Complex cases with severe injuries can take 1-3 years or longer. We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while ensuring you receive full compensation.
What if the truck was carrying hazardous materials?
Hazmat trucking accidents create additional liability issues and require specialized knowledge. These cases often involve higher insurance limits ($5 million minimum) and may require expert testimony about chemical exposure risks.
Can I sue for PTSD after a trucking accident?
Yes. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a compensable injury. If you’re experiencing flashbacks, anxiety, depression, or other PTSD symptoms, we can help you recover compensation for your mental anguish.
The Attorney911 Difference
When you choose Attorney911 for your Ward County trucking accident case, you’re getting:
A Team That Treats You Like Family
“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client
Faster Resolution Than Other Firms
“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client
Maximum Recovery for Your Injuries
“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client
Personal Attention from the Managing Partner
“Ralph reached out personally.”
— Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client
Experience Taking on Major Corporations
We’ve successfully litigated against Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and other major commercial carriers.
Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics
Our former insurance defense attorney knows exactly how adjusters are trained to minimize claims—and how to stop them.
A Proven Track Record of Results
- 4.9★ Google rating (251+ reviews)
- $50+ million recovered for Texas families
- Multiple multi-million dollar settlements
- 25+ years of courtroom experience
Don’t Wait – Evidence Is Disappearing
Every hour you wait, critical evidence in your Ward County trucking accident case is at risk of being destroyed:
- Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days
- Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days
- ELD records may only be retained for 6 months
- Witness memories fade quickly
- Physical evidence may be repaired or discarded
- Trucks and trailers may be sold or scrapped
The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of representation.
Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll evaluate your case, answer your questions, and send a spoliation letter immediately to preserve the evidence in your case.
Remember: We work on contingency. You pay nothing unless we win your case. The trucking company has lawyers—you should too.
Don’t let them get away with it. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now.
