Amherst Truck Accident Lawyer: Fighting for Victims of 18-Wheeler and Commercial Vehicle Wrecks

The impact was catastrophic. On US-84 near the heart of Amherst, 80,000 pounds of steel slammed into a family vehicle at highway speed. In an instant, a routine trip through Lamb County turned into a life-altering disaster. If you are reading this while sitting in a hospital room or grieving a lost loved one, you need to know that what you do in the next 48 hours will determine the rest of your life. Trucking companies in Amherst and across the South Plains don’t wait to protect their profits—they deploy rapid-response investigators and defense attorneys before the ambulance even leaves the scene. You deserve a fighter who moves just as fast.

At Attorney911, we understand that an 18-wheeler accident in Amherst isn’t just another car wreck. It is a legal emergency. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has spent over 25 years in the trenches of personal injury law, taking on some of the largest corporations in the world and winning. Since 1998, we have been holding negligent trucking companies accountable for the devastation they leave behind. We bring federal court experience to every case, ensuring that whether your accident happened on a rural Lamb County road or a major highway, the corporate giants responsible are made to pay.

Our team offers a unique advantage that other firms in Amherst simply cannot match. Associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He was on the other side. He knows their playbook, he understands how they undervalue your suffering, and he recognizes their manipulation tactics the moment they start. Today, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you. We provide aggressive, relentless representation for families in Amherst, and we do it on a contingency fee basis—you pay us nothing unless we recover money for you.

If you’ve been hurt by a commercial vehicle in Amherst, call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We are ready to start the fight today.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol in Amherst

When a semi-truck causes a wreck in Amherst, the clock starts ticking on your ability to prove negligence. Most people don’t realize that the most critical evidence in a trucking case is digital, and it is designed to be overwritten. At Attorney911, we send formal spoliation letters within 24 to 48 hours of being hired. We demand that every piece of data—from the black box to the driver’s cell phone records—be locked down immediately.

Why You Must Act Now

Evidence in Amherst trucking cases disappears with terrifying speed. Consider these critical timelines:

ECM/Black Box Data: The truck’s Engine Control Module records speed, braking force, and throttle position. This data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days or during subsequent driving events.
ELD Logs: Electronic Logging Devices track a driver’s hours of service. Federal law (49 CFR § 395.8) only requires carriers to keep these for six months.
Dashcam Footage: Many corporate fleets, including those serving Amherst, use Netradyne or Lytx camera systems. Standard footage may be deleted in as little as 24 to 72 hours unless it is flagged as an “event.”
Physical Evidence: Skid marks on Amherst’s hot asphalt fade within days. Debris is cleared. The truck itself may be repaired or sold before your experts can inspect it.

As client Angel Walle said, we solve in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years. That speed starts with preserving evidence. We move immediately to ensure that the trucking company doesn’t “accidentally” lose the data that proves they are at fault for your Amherst accident.

What We Secure

We subpoena and preserve a massive database of evidence for our Amherst clients, including:

Driver Qualification Files (49 CFR § 391.51): We check for failed drug tests, lack of training, or a history of violations that should have kept the driver off Amherst roads.
Maintenance Records (49 CFR § 396.3): We look for deferred brake repairs, worn tires, and ignored safety defects.
Dispatch Communications: We look for evidence that the company pressured the driver to speed or violate rest rules to meet a deadline in Amherst.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 before the evidence in your case is gone forever. Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña hoy mismo.

Common Truck Accident Types in Amherst and Lamb County

Amherst sits at a critical junction of agricultural production and regional freight transport. This creates a unique set of hazards where heavy commercial trucks share the road with local families and slow-moving farm equipment. Each type of truck accident in Amherst involves different physics and different violations of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations.

1. Agricultural and Overweight Hauler Wrecks

Amherst is deeply rooted in the cotton and grain industries. During harvest season, the roads surrounding Amherst are filled with cotton module trucks, grain hoppers, and livestock trailers. These vehicles are often top-heavy and prone to shifting loads.

The Danger: Under 49 CFR § 393.100, cargo must be secured to prevent shifting. An unbalanced load of grain or improperly secured cotton modules can cause a rollover as a truck attempts to navigate a curve on a Lamb County rural road.
Liability: If an overloaded grain truck cannot stop in time on US-84, the cargo owner and the loading company may be just as liable as the driver for exceeding safe weight limits.

2. Rear-End Collisions on US-84

US-84 is a primary corridor for 18-wheelers moving freight through the Amherst area. Because an 80,000-pound truck at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields—rear-end collisions in Amherst are often fatal.

The Cause: These crashes are usually the result of driver fatigue (49 CFR Part 395) or distracted driving (49 CFR § 392.82).
The Impact: When a semi slams into the back of a car stopped for traffic in Amherst, it causes catastrophic whiplash, herniated discs, and TBI. We fight the insurance company’s claim that these were “minor” impacts. There is no such thing as a minor impact with an 18-wheeler.

3. Jackknife and Rollover Accidents

A jackknife occurs when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab. In the high winds common to Amherst and the South Plains, an empty trailer can easily become a sail, leading to a loss of control.

FMCSA Violations: We look for violations of 49 CFR § 392.6 (speeding for conditions) and Part 396 (brake system maintenance). If the brakes on the trailer were not properly adjusted, it can trigger a jackknife during an emergency stop near Amherst.

4. Wide Turn and Blind Spot Accidents

Truck drivers in Amherst often have to navigate tight intersections or pull into agricultural facilities. The “right-hook” or “squeeze play” occurs when a truck swings wide to the left to make a right turn, crushing a smaller vehicle in its blind spot.

The No-Zone: We remind juries that trucks have four major blind spots. If a driver failed to check their mirrors or lacked required proximity sensors, the trucking company is liable for the resulting crush injuries and amputations.

5. Corporate Delivery and “Last Mile” Van Crashes

With the Lubbock distribution hubs nearby, Amherst residents frequently share roads with Amazon Prime vans, FedEx Ground trucks, and UPS delivery vehicles.

The Contractor Defense: Amazon and FedEx will tell you the driver was an “independent contractor.” We know how to pierce this shield by showing that the corporate parent controlled the routes, the timing, and the driver’s behavior through AI cameras.

Learn more in our video guide: “The Definitive Guide To Commercial Truck Accidents” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEEeZf-k8Ao.

Who Is Liable for Your Amherst Truck Accident?

Most general practice lawyers only sue the truck driver. At Attorney911, we know that to maximize your recovery, we must identify EVERY party responsible for the collision. Because multiple defendants mean multiple insurance policies, we investigate the entire supply chain that put that dangerous truck on Amherst streets.

The Liability Web

The Truck Driver: For direct negligence like speeding, fatigue, or intoxication.
The Trucking Company (Carrier): Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, the company is responsible for its driver’s actions. We also pursue them for negligent hiring if they put a driver with a bad record on the road in Amherst.
The Corporate Parent (Amazon/Walmart): We hold corporate giants accountable when their delivery quotas or scheduling systems force drivers to bypass safety rules.
The Cargo Owner/Shipper: If the cargo was improperly loaded or exceeded weight limits, the shipper is liable for the resulting instability.
The Freight Broker: Brokers have a duty to hire safe carriers. If they brokered a load to a “bottom-tier” carrier with a history of Amherst-area violations, the broker is negligent.
The Maintenance Company: If a third-party shop in the Amherst region failed to properly adjust the brakes or replace worn tires, they share the blame.
Rental Truck Companies (U-Haul/Penske): We hold rental companies liable when they rent 26-foot trucks to untrained drivers or fail to maintain their fleet.

As client Donald Wilcox said, “One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.” We take the difficult cases because we know where to find the liability that other firms miss.

Catastrophic Injuries and Their True Costs in Amherst

An 18-wheeler crash doesn’t just result in cuts and bruises. It causes life-changing trauma. In Amherst, victims are often far from Level 1 trauma centers in Lubbock, meaning the “Golden Hour” of medical treatment is critical. If your injuries were exacerbated by the remote nature of a Lamb County road, that is part of your damages.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) – Recent Settlements: $1.5M – $9.8M

A TBI changes who you are. It affects your memory, your mood, and your ability to earn a living in Amherst. We work with life care planners to project your needs for neuropsychological therapy and cognitive rehab for the next 40 years.
Learn more in our video: “The Ultimate Guide to Brain Injury Lawsuits” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBYAHi5aiEQ.

Spinal Cord Injury – Recent Settlements: $4.7M – $25.8M

Paralysis is the most devastating outcome of a truck wreck. Whether it is paraplegia or quadriplegia, you will need home modifications, adaptive vehicles, and 24/7 care. We don’t settle for “enough to get by”—we fight for enough to ensure you live with dignity.

Amputation – Recent Settlements: $1.9M – $8.6M

Losing a limb in a “squeeze-play” or rollover accident in Amherst means a lifetime of prosthetic replacements and phantom pain. We recovered over $3.8 million for a client who faced a leg amputation following a collision. We understand the physical and psychological toll of disfigurement.

Psychological Injuries: PTSD and Anxiety

Trucking accidents are violent. If you are having nightmares or are now too afraid to drive on US-84, those are legally compensable injuries. As client Chad Harris said, “You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” We validate your emotional trauma and ensure it is part of your settlement.

Need more information on emotional distress? Watch “Can I Get a PTSD Payout After a Car Accident?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9803X_jnR4A.

Commercial Truck Insurance: Why Amherst Cases Are Different

In a typical car crash in Amherst, you might be limited to a $30,000 insurance policy. In a commercial truck case, the numbers are much higher. Federal law (49 CFR Part 387) mandates minimum insurance levels that provide a path to real justice for Amherst families:

General Freight: $750,000 minimum.
Oil and Large Equipment: $1,000,000 minimum.
Hazardous Materials: $5,000,000 minimum.

Many large corporate carriers in the Amherst area carry umbrella policies worth $50 million or more. However, accessing this money is a battle. Because companies like Walmart and Amazon are self-insured, every dollar they pay you comes directly off their bottom line. They will fight you for every inch.

Lupe Peña’s background in insurance defense is your secret weapon here. He knows how adjusters use “Colossus” software to undervalue your pain and suffering. We counter their formulas with human stories and medical evidence they cannot ignore. Client Glenda Walker noted, “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” That is the standard we bring to every Amherst settlement negotiation.

Frequently Asked Questions for Amherst Truck Accident Victims

1. How long do I have to file a truck accident lawsuit in Amherst?

In Texas, the statute of limitations is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, if the truck was owned by a government entity (like a municipal dump truck or school bus in Lamb County), you may have as little as six months to file a formal notice. Never wait—evidence in Amherst disappears much faster than the legal deadline.

2. What if I was partially at fault for the crash on US-84?

Texas follows “modified comparative negligence.” You can still recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. Your final check is simply reduced by your percentage of responsibility. We use accident reconstruction experts to shift the blame back onto the negligent trucker where it belongs.

3. What is an MCS-90 endorsement and does it help me?

The MCS-90 is a federal safety net. It ensures that even if a trucking company’s insurance policy is technically voided because of a lie on their application, the insurance company MUST still pay at least the federal minimum $750,000 to an injured member of the public in Amherst.
Watch our guide: “The Definitive Guide To MCS 90 Auto Endorsements” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=auB5NWcwyag.

4. Can I sue the oil company if a water truck hit me in Amherst?

If the truck was hauling produced water or frac sand for a major operator in the region (like Pioneer or Halliburton), the answer may be yes. We look for evidence that the oil company’s production demands pressured a contractor into violating HOS rules.

5. Why are black boxes so important?

Because “he-said, she-said” isn’t enough in Amherst courts. The black box tells us exactly how fast the truck was going and whether the driver even tried to brake before hitting you. We send investigators to Amherst to secure this data immediately.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Amherst Case?

You have 251+ reasons to trust us—our 4.9-star Google reviews. We aren’t a massive “billboard” law firm where you’re just a case number. We are a boutique powerhouse that treats every Amherst client like family.

25+ Years of Experience: Ralph Manginello has been litigating complex injury cases since 1998. He is admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas and has gone toe-to-toe with Fortune 500 corporations like BP.
The Insurance Defense Insider: Having Lupe Peña on your team means the trucking company’s lawyers can’t pull a fast one. We know their “final offers” are rarely final.
Active in Major Litigation: We are currently litigating a massive $10 million lawsuit against a major university, proving we have the resources to take on any defendant.
Proven Results: From recovering multi-million dollar settlements for TBI victims to securing $3.8 million for amputees, our track record speaks for itself.

As Kiimarii Yup told our team, “I lost everything… 1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.” We are here to help you rebuild your life.

Contact an Amherst Truck Accident Attorney Today

Don’t let a negligent trucking company dictate your future. They have already called their lawyers. Their insurance team is already in Amherst gathering evidence to use against you. It is time to level the playing field.

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911. Whether you were hit by an 18-wheeler, a delivery van, a dump truck, or an oilfield vehicle, we are ready to fight tooth and nail for you.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 or (888) 288-9911.
Available 24/7. Free Consultation. No Fee Unless We Win.

Your family. Your future. Your fight. Attorney911 is your first responder to a legal emergency in Amherst, Texas.

Detailed Breakdown of Commercial Vehicle Liability in Amherst

In the rural expanses of Lamb County, various commercial vehicles operate alongside 18-wheelers. Each carries its own regulatory weight and liability profile.

Dump Trucks and Concrete Mixers in Amherst

With agricultural development and road construction common in the South Plains, Amherst residents frequently encounter dump trucks and cement mixers. These vehicles often weigh over 60,000 pounds when loaded.

Risk Profile: Concrete mixers have a high center of gravity and a shifting “slosh” effect from the liquid load, making them prone to rollover on Amherst’s rural highway exits.
Liability: If a dump truck from a nearby construction site in Amherst spills its load of gravel, causing a multi-car pileup, we target both the hauling company and the entity that hired them.

FedEx and UPS: The Corporate Giants

Both FedEx and UPS have a major presence on Amherst roads.

UPS: Drivers are directly employed. If they cause a wreck on US-84, UPS is directly liable.
FedEx Ground: These drivers are often contractors. FedEx will try to distance itself. Lupe Peña knows how to pierce that contractor defense by showing FedEx’s control over the “Independent Service Providers.”

Rental Trucks: The Untrained Hazard

U-Haul and Penske rent 26-foot trucks to anyone in Amherst with a standard driver’s license. They put untrained civilians in command of 20,000-pound vehicles.

Our Approach: We hold rental companies accountable for negligent entrustment when they rent to unqualified drivers or fail to maintain the truck’s braking system.

Learn more about dealing with insurance after these wrecks: “What Should You Not Say to an Insurance Adjuster?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9UKRbFprB0E.

FMCSA Compliance: The Rules That Protect Amherst Drivers

Federal law isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a requirement. When we take on your Amherst case, we audit the trucking company for violations of the following:

Part 382: Drug and alcohol testing. Did the driver have controlled substances in their system during the drive through Amherst?
Part 391: Driver qualification. Was the driver medically fit to operate a class-8 vehicle?
Part 395: Hours of Service. Was the driver awake for 14 hours? Did they skip their mandatory 30-minute break?
Part 396: Inspection and maintenance. Was the truck that hit you in Amherst missing required reflectors or running with worn-out brake pads?

Evidence of even a single FMCSA violation can be the “smoking gun” that forces a multi-million dollar settlement.

Damages: Maximum Recovery for Amherst Families

We pursue three categories of damages for our Amherst clients:

1. Economic Damages (Calculable)

This includes your ambulance ride from Amherst, trauma care at UMC Lubbock, future surgeries, lost paychecks, and the loss of your household contribution. If you can no longer farm or work your trade in Lamb County, we calculate every dollar of your lost lifetime earning capacity.

2. Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

This is for the pain you feel every morning. For the physical impairment that prevents you from playing with your grandkids or enjoying the South Plains outdoors. Texas does not cap these damages in truck wrecks, and we make the jury understand the human cost of negligence.

3. Punitive Damages (Punishment)

If the trucking company’s conduct was egregious—like allowing a driver to stay on the road after multiple Amherst-area violations—we ask for punitive damages. We aim to not just compensate you, but to change the way that company does business so no other Amherst family suffers like yours.

Calculations can be complex. Watch “How Do Car Insurance Companies Calculate Pain and Suffering?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5EE9AWT12Kg.

Final Call: Don’t Face the Corporate Giants Alone

The trucking company that hit you is already building a file against you. They have the money, the investigators, and the defense teams. But you have Attorney911.

Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña are ready to stand in the gap for you. We provide the power of a large-scale firm with the personal attention of a local Amherst advocate.

One number. One call. 1-888-ATTY-911.
Attorney911 | The Manginello Law Firm
We Fight. We Win. You Recover.

Hablamos Español. Consulta Gratis 24/7. Llame ahora: (888) 288-9911.

Deep Dive: Truck Maintenance Failures in Amherst

Amherst’s regional traffic is hard on vehicles. The extreme summer heat and rural road dust can accelerate the failure of truck components. When an 18-wheeler’s equipment fails on a Lamb County highway, it is rarely a “freak accident.” It is usually the result of a trucking company prioritizing “uptime” over safety.

Brake Failures: 49 CFR Part 393 and 396

Brake failure is a factor in nearly 30% of all large truck crashes. Under 49 CFR § 396.3, carriers must systematically inspect and maintain their brakes.

The Amherst Reality: As a truck slows down for the turns heading into the Amherst area, the friction generates heat. If the brakes were already worn or the air lines were leaking, they can fail entirely.
Our Investigation: We don’t just look at the crash; we look at the last six months of inspection reports. If a mechanic noted a brake issue but the company ordered the truck to keep moving, we have proven gross negligence.

Tire Blowouts: Retreads and Overheating

In the high temperatures of the Texas Panhandle and South Plains, truck tires are subject to extreme stress.

The Problem: Many carriers use retreaded tires to save money. If a retread fails on US-84 near Amherst, it can send 100 pounds of rubber through a following car’s windshield.
The Law: 49 CFR § 393.75 prohibits the use of damaged or under-treaded tires. We check the DOT date codes on the tires of the truck that hit you. If those tires were past their service life, the company is responsible.
Watch our specialized guide: “Truck Tire Blowouts and When You Need a Lawyer” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCTumr1looc.

The Independent Contractor Maze: Amazon and FedEx in Amherst

If an Amazon van or a FedEx Ground truck hit you in Amherst, the legal battle starts with the word “contractor.”

Amazon DSP Liability

Amazon does not like to admit they employ drivers. Instead, they use small local companies called Delivery Service Partners (DSPs).

How We Fight It: We show the Amherst jury that Amazon is the “statutory employer.” Amazon sets the GPS route. Amazon sets the delivery window. Amazon’s Netradyne cameras monitor the driver’s eyes. If Amazon controls every second of that driver’s day, Amazon is liable for their wreck—no matter what the contract says.

FedEx Ground Independent Service Providers (ISPs)

FedEx Ground uses a similar model to insulate the parent corporation from Amherst accidents. We use current case law and agency theory to pull FedEx back into the case, bringing their $5 million contingent policy into play for our clients.

Oilfield Trucking Hazards Near Amherst: The Permian Influence

While Amherst is primarily agricultural, the regional traffic include oilfield haulers moving equipment and water between the North Plains and the heart of the Permian Basin.

Water Trucks and Frac Sand Haulers

These are some of the most dangerous vehicles on Lamb County roads.

Water Trucks: A 130-barrel tanker of produced water has a shifting center of gravity. Partial loads are even MORE dangerous because of the “free-surface effect” that causes the truck to pull during turns.
Sand Trucks: These vehicles are often chronically overloaded. Every extra thousand pounds of sand is extra profit for the company, but it increases the truck’s stopping distance exponentially.

H2S Exposure and Chemical Spills

If an Amherst wreck involves a crude oil tanker, there is a risk of Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) exposure. H2S can be fatal in seconds. We investigate whether the trucking company provided the Amherst-area driver with proper safety training and detection equipment under OSHA standards.

Vulnerable Road Users: Pedestrians and Cyclists in Amherst

A truck accident in Amherst doesn’t always involve two vehicles. Pedestrians and cyclists have zero protection from an 80,000-pound semi.

Pedestrian Strikes in Downtown Amherst

When a truck driver is distracted or fails to check their front “No-Zone” while pulling away from a stop in Amherst, they can strike a pedestrian.

Injury Severity: Because truck bumpers are chest-high for most adults, pedestrian impacts are almost always fatal or result in catastrophic organ damage.
Our Fight: We hold the driver accountable for failing to maintain a proper lookout, a violation of fundamental safety rules in 49 CFR § 392.2.

Cyclists and the “Right Hook”

If a truck turns right at an Amherst intersection and doesn’t see a cyclist in the bike lane, the results are horrific. The cyclist is often swept under the rear wheels. We argue that trucking companies are negligent if they fail to equip their fleets with available side-guard technology and proximity sensors.

Wrongful Death in Amherst: Seeking Justice for Your Family

If you lost a loved one in a truck wreck in Amherst, we offer our deepest condolences. We know that no check can replace a father, mother, or child. But we also know that the financial burden of a fatal wreck can destroy a family’s future.

Texas Wrongful Death Claims

Under Texas law, surviving spouses, children, and parents can file a claim to recover:

Loss of Support: The income the deceased would have provided to the family in Amherst.
Loss of Consortium: The lost companionship and guidance that can never be replaced.
Survival Damages: For the pain and suffering the victim experienced between the collision and their passing.

We fight for the maximum recovery to ensure your family in Amherst is financially secure for life.

Why 25 Years of Trucking Litigation Matters for You

Trucking companies hire lawyers who specialize ONLY in truck defense. To beat them, you need a lawyer who specializes in truck prosecution. Ralph Manginello is that lawyer.

Federal Court Admission: Most major trucking cases are moved to federal court. We are already there.
Deep Pockets Strategy: We don’t just sue the driver for their $30,000 policy. We find the corporate parent, the loader, and the manufacturer to ensure the settlement check has the number of zeros your injuries require.
Family-Focused Representation: As Chad Harris said, “You are NOT a pest to them… You are FAMILY to them.” We know the Amherst community, and we fight for our community members as if they were our own.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free case evaluation.
No fee unless we win. 24/7 Response.
Attorney911 | The Manginello Law Firm

Serving Amherst and all of Lamb County. Because when disaster strikes, you need a fighter.

Case Study: The Physics of an Amherst Impact

To understand why your small car was crushed by that semi on US-84, you have to understand the science. An 18-wheeler is the most dangerous object on a Texas highway.

Kinetic Energy (KE = 1/2 mv²)

In physics, energy is based on mass and velocity squared.

If a 4,000-lb car hits you at 65 mph, it carries a certain amount of dangerous energy.
If an 80,000-lb truck hits you at 65 mph, it carries 20 times more energy.
In the Amherst wreck, your car’s “crumple zones” were overwhelmed. The truck didn’t just hit you; it drove through you.

Deceleration Trauma

When your car is hit by an 80,000-pound object, your brain and organs are subjected to forces they were never meant to handle. This is why TBIs and internal bleeding are so common in Amherst truck wrecks, even if you were wearing a seatbelt. We use biomechanical experts to prove to the jury that the forces you endured were equivalent to a fall from a 10-story building.

Commercial Vehicle Types Common in Amherst and Lamb County

While 18-wheelers get the most attention, Amherst roads are filled with other large commercial vehicles that carry significant liability if they crash.

1. Dump Trucks (Gravel and Dirt Haulers)

Loaded dump trucks weigh up to 60,000 pounds.

Mechanical Hazards: Many dump truck fleets in West Texas are poorly maintained. We check for worn tires and faulty tailgates that can drop debris on Amherst roads.
Raised Beds: We see cases where dump truck drivers forget to lower their bed and strike Amherst-area overpasses or power lines.

2. Concrete Mixers (Cement Trucks)

A mixer filled with wet cement weighs around 70,000 pounds.

The “Slosh” Risk: Cement is liquid. As a truck turns on an Amherst curve, the weight shifts unpredictably, leading to high-COG rollovers.
Time Pressure: Cement sets in 90 minutes. Drivers often speed through Amherst to meet this “hardening window.”

3. Garbage and Waste Trucks

Companies like Waste Management and Republic Services operate massive, 60,000-pound trucks in residential Amherst neighborhoods.

Backing Accidents: Garbage trucks have massive rear blind spots. If a driver backs up without a spotter in an Amherst neighborhood, they can cause fatal injuries.

4. Moving and Rental Trucks (U-Haul)

Anyone with a credit card can rent a 26,000-pound truck.

Driver Inexperience: Most rental truck drivers have never driven anything larger than an SUV. They don’t understand the “off-tracking” of a trailer or the stopping distance required on Lamb County roads.
Liability: We hold the rental companies liable if they rented a truck to a driver with a suspended license or an obvious impairment.

The Industry Insurance Stacking Strategy

In an Amherst truck wreck, we use “Stacking” to ensure you are fully compensated.

Lower Layer ($1,000,000): The driver or small trucking company’s primary policy.
Middle Layer ($5,000,000 – $10,000,000): The excess policy or corporate contingent policy (like the Amazon $5M policy).
Upper Layer ($25,000,000+): The corporate umbrella policy from giants like Walmart or Big Oil.

Most Amherst lawyers are happy with the first $1M. We aren’t. We know that for a life-long spinal injury or TBI, $1M won’t even cover the first five years of medical bills. We fight to reach the upper layers of insurance.

Learn more: “How to Negotiate a Car Accident Settlement” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OV0VC5-1CJ8.

Documenting the Scene: Your Amherst Smartphone as Your Best Witness

If you are physically able to do so after a wreck in Amherst, use your phone to win your case.

Take 50+ Photos: Don’t just take pictures of the cars. Take pictures of the truck’s tires, the driver’s cab (looking for distractions), the street signs, and the skid marks.
Identify the Company: Photograph the DOT number on the truck door. This is the key to identifying the real liable party in your Amherst case.
Record Conversations: If the driver says “I’m so sorry, I fell asleep,” or “I didn’t see you,” record it. Those admissions of fault are gold in an Amherst courtroom.

Watch our guide: “Can You Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs.

Firm Differentiator: Why Lupe Peña’s Past Matters for Your Future

Before he sat at our table, Lupe Peña sat at theirs.

He knows how they think: Lupe knows that insurance companies in Amherst cases look for “gaps in treatment” to claim you aren’t really hurt. We ensure you have a seamless medical record.
He knows the “Colossus” defense: Insurance companies use AI algorithms to put a dollar value on your life. Lupe knows how to break those algorithms by proving the unique “human capital” loss you have suffered in Amherst.
He knows when they’re bluffing: When the defense says “this is our last offer,” Lupe knows if that’s the truth or if they’re trying to scare you away from a trial.

Amherst Truck Accident FAQ: Deep Dive

Q: What if the truck that hit me in Amherst was empty?

Empty trucks are often MORE dangerous than full ones. A “bobtail” (cab only) or an empty trailer is prone to skidding and jackknifing because there is no weight to push the tires into the Amherst road surface.

Q: Can I sue the driver’s employer if the driver was on drugs?

Yes. Under 49 CFR Part 382, trucking companies must pull random drug tests. If they failed to test the driver or ignored a “positive” result, they are directly negligent. This often opens the door to high-value punitive damages in Amherst.

Q: The trucking company is based in another state—where do I sue?

Because trucking is “interstate commerce,” we can often file your case in Federal Court right here in Texas. This prevents the trucking company from having a “home-court advantage” in their own state.

Q: How much does Attorney911 cost?

Nothing out of your pocket. We work on a 33.33% pre-trial contingency basis. We only get paid a percentage of the money we RECOVER for you. If we don’t win your Amherst case, you don’t owe us a dime.

Trust the Firm That Juries Trust

Since 1998, we have built a reputation for toughness and integrity in Texas courts. We don’t just settle cases; we litigate them. Insurance companies know that if they don’t treat our Amherst clients fairly, Ralph Manginello will be seeing them in front of a jury.

As client Donald Wilcox said, “Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”

Do not wait. The evidence is being deleted. The trucking company is hiding their logs. Call us now.

Hablamos Español. Consulta Gratis 24/7. Your first responder to a legal emergency.

Final Context: The Roads of Amherst and Lamb County

Amherst drivers use US-84 every day to commute to Littlefield, Lubbock, or Clovis. These are high-speed routes where 18-wheelers carry the lifeblood of the Texas economy. But that economy doesn’t have the right to run you off the road.

If you’ve been hit, don’t let them silence you. Don’t let them offer you a check that pays for your car but leaves you with $500,000 in medical debt. Get the representation you deserve. Get Attorney911.

One number. One call. 1-888-ATTY-911.
Fighting for Amherst Victims Since 1998.

Special Section: Agricultural Truck Safety in Amherst and the FMCSA

Many agricultural haulers around Amherst believe they are “exempt” from federal trucking rules. They are wrong.

Agricultural Exemptions (The 150 Air-Mile Rule)

While there are exemptions for the transport of agricultural commodities (49 CFR § 395.1(k)), these only apply to “Hours of Service.” Agricultural trucks in Amherst MUST still follow:

Part 393: Proper lighting and braking.
Part 383: CDL requirements for vehicles over 26,000 lbs.
State Negligence Laws: You cannot drive a 60,000-pound grain truck recklessly in Amherst just because you’re a farmer.

If an agricultural truck caused your wreck, we ensure they aren’t using “exemptions” to hide their own negligence.

Protecting the Families of Amherst

We know that people in Amherst value hard work, family, and community. We share those values. That’s why we take these cases personally. As Mongo Slade said, “I also got a very nice settlement.” We don’t just want you to survive; we want you to thrive after a tragedy.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 | (888) 288-9911
Attorney911 | The Manginello Law Firm
Your legal first responders in Amherst, Texas.

No fee unless we win. Consultation is always free. Llame a Lupe Peña hoy.

Detailed Taxonomy of Trucking Injuries for Amherst Victims

When an 18-wheeler strikes a vehicle in Amherst, the resulting injuries require a level of medical expertise that many lawyers lack. We understand exactly what you are going through.

Orthopedic and Bone Fractures (Section H.9.1)

Femur Fractures: The forces in a truck wreck in Amherst are so severe they often snap the femur—the body’s strongest bone. This requires surgical plating and months of immobilization.
Pelvic Fractures: Common in T-bone and “wide-turn” accidents near Amherst. These carry a high risk of internal bleeding and permanent mobility issues.
Wrist and Hand Fractures: From bracing against the steering wheel at impact. These can end careers for tradespeople and professionals in the Amherst area.

Abdominal and Organ Injuries (Section H.9.4)

Splenic Rupture: This is a silent killer. The injury often doesn’t show symptoms for hours, but internal bleeding can be fatal. If you have any abdominal bruising after an Amherst wreck, get a CT scan immediately.
Liver Lacerations: Caused by seatbelt compression during a high-speed rear-end collision on US-84.

The “Hidden Damages” We Prove (Section I.5)

Aggravation of Pre-Existing Conditions: So you had a “bad back” before the Amherst wreck? The insurance company says it’s not their fault. We say different. If you were managing your pain and now you need surgery, the truck driver is responsible for the AGGRAVATION.
Loss of Household Services: If you can no longer mow your lawn in Amherst, clean your home, or care for your children, we recover the market-rate cost to hire someone to do those jobs for the next 30 years.

The Power of the “Nuclear Verdict” Trend (Section L.5)

Juries are tired of trucking companies cutting corners in towns like Amherst.

** Ram v. Landstar ($730M):** A Texas jury awarded this because a company put an oversize Navy propeller on a truck without proper escorts.
Werner Enterprises ($150M): A settlement for two children killed because a driver wasn’t properly trained for weather conditions.

These cases prove that if we go to court in Amherst, the jury is on YOUR side. We use these landmark cases as leverage in every settlement meeting we have.

Call Attorney911 | The Manginello Law Firm
1-888-ATTY-911 | (888) 288-9911
Serving Amherst, Texas | Available 24/7

No Upfront Costs. No Fee Unless We Win. Hablamos Español.

A Note to Amherst Truck Drivers

If you were injured while driving your own truck or working for a carrier—and the accident was caused by another truck or equipment failure—you have rights too. You aren’t just “part of the job.” If a dispatch center pressured you into an unsafe situation, or if a maintenance shop failed to fix your brakes, you can sue. Ralph Manginello fights for ALL victims of trucking negligence in Amherst.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911. Get the Fighter You Need.

Final Summary for Amherst Residents

If you’ve been hit by a commercial vehicle in Amherst:

Call 911.
Go to the ER.
Call Attorney911 (1-888-ATTY-911).
Don’t say a word to the insurance company.

We will protect your evidence, your family, and your future.

Attorney911 | Powerful & Proven
Legal Emergency Lawyers™
Helping Amherst Recover Since 1998.

End of Comprehensive Localized Guide for Amherst, Texas.

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1-888-ATTY-911 | Reach out today.

Additional Local Context for Amherst, TX (Lamb County)

In Amherst, we see the convergence of local agricultural traffic and heavy interstate commerce daily. Whether it’s a cattle hauler moving through town or an 18-wheeler bypassing the heart of the city on US-84, the risks are real. Our firm understands the unique challenges of litigating in Lamb County—we know the local courts, the local roads, and the local people.

When you choose Attorney911, you aren’t just getting a Houston-based legal powerhouse. You are getting a team that treats your Amherst case with the respect and local focus it deserves. We are your neighbors, your fighters, and your advocates.

Contact Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña today.
1-888-ATTY-911
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Web: https://attorney911.com

Hablamos Español. Llame ahora para su consulta gratuita.

Final FAQ for Amherst: “What if my car was totaled?”

In Amherst, your car is your lifeline. If a semi totals your vehicle, we don’t just fight for “Blue Book” value. We look for “Replacement Value”—the actual cost to get you back into a comparable vehicle so you can continue your life in Lamb County. Property damage is just the start; the real fight is for your health.

Call us. We can help with all of it. One call to 1-888-ATTY-911 does it all.

Firm Mission for Amherst

At Attorney911, our mission is simple: to provide immediate, aggressive, and professional help to Amherst families in crisis. We believe that no individual should be bullied by a multi-billion dollar corporation. Since 1998, we have been the shield for the injured. We are ready to be yours.

Attorney911 | The Manginello Law Firm
1-888-ATTY-911
The firm insurers fear. The help you need.

Summary of Attorney Credentials relevant to Amherst

Ralph Manginello: Licensed in Texas and New York. Admitted to Southern District of Texas (Federal Court). Member of Trial Lawyers Achievement Association Million Dollar Member. 25+ years experience.
Lupe Peña: Associate Attorney. Former national insurance defense specialist. Native Texan. Fluent Spanish speaker. Lead negotiator on 18-wheeler cases.

Choose experience. Choose Attorney911.

Closure for Amherst Guided Journey

You have finished our guide to truck accidents in Amherst. But the journey toward your recovery is just beginning. Take the next step. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911. Let’s get to work.

1-888-ATTY-911
Wait no longer. Fight back now.

Data verified as of February 2026 for Version 2.0 release.
All FMCSA citations verified against the current 49 CFR database.
Texas State Bar information for Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña is current.

(888) 288-9911
1-888-ATTY-911
atty911.com

Hablamos Español.