
Harlingen, TX – Three-Vehicle Crash on S Expressway 77 Injures One: What Happened and What Comes Next
Every year, thousands of families across Texas experience life-altering moments when an 18-wheeler or commercial vehicle collides with passenger cars. The recent three-vehicle crash on South Expressway 77 in Harlingen, Texas, serves as a stark reminder of how quickly a routine drive can turn into a legal emergency. If you or a loved one has been involved in a similar incident anywhere in the Rio Grande Valley—whether on I-69, US-77, US-83, or the local roads of Harlingen, Brownsville, or McAllen—you need to understand what happened, why it happened, and what your rights are under Texas and federal law.
At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for victims of commercial vehicle accidents across Texas. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of the largest trucking companies in America. We know how these accidents happen, why they keep happening, and how to hold negligent trucking companies fully accountable. This isn’t just another news story to us—it’s a pattern we see every day on Harlingen’s roads, and it’s why we fight so hard for our clients.
The Incident: What We Know About the Harlingen Three-Vehicle Crash
On the evening of February 18, 2026, at approximately 8:27 PM, a three-vehicle collision occurred on South Expressway 77 in Harlingen, Texas. According to verified accident reports, the crash involved at least one commercial vehicle and resulted in injuries to at least one person. While the full details are still emerging as law enforcement completes their investigation, this incident highlights the very real dangers that Harlingen drivers face every day on our region’s busy trucking corridors.
Key Facts from the Scene:
- Location: South Expressway 77, Harlingen, Texas
- Time: 8:27 PM, February 18, 2026
- Vehicles Involved: Three vehicles, including at least one commercial vehicle
- Injuries: At least one person injured
- Responding Agency: Local law enforcement and emergency responders
Why This Location Matters for Harlingen Drivers
South Expressway 77 is one of Harlingen’s most critical transportation arteries. This route serves as a vital connection between Harlingen, Brownsville, and the Rio Grande Valley’s extensive network of distribution centers, manufacturing facilities, and agricultural operations. The highway carries a mix of local commuter traffic and heavy commercial freight, including:
- Produce trucks transporting citrus, vegetables, and other Valley-grown agricultural products
- Cross-border freight moving between the Port of Brownsville and inland distribution hubs
- Oilfield equipment and supplies serving the Eagle Ford Shale region
- Retail merchandise bound for Harlingen’s growing commercial sector
This high volume of truck traffic creates inherent risks for passenger vehicles. The speed differential between large trucks and cars, combined with the frequent merging and lane-changing required on Expressway 77, makes this stretch particularly dangerous. When accidents occur here, they often involve multiple vehicles and result in serious injuries.
The Investigation: What Happens Next in Harlingen Trucking Accident Cases
When a multi-vehicle crash involving a commercial truck occurs in Harlingen, the investigation process follows a specific timeline that’s critical for victims to understand:
Immediate Aftermath (First 24-48 Hours)
- Emergency Response: Police and EMS arrive to secure the scene, provide medical care, and begin documenting the incident.
- Initial Documentation: Officers create a preliminary accident report noting vehicle positions, damage, injuries, and witness statements.
- Evidence Preservation: This is the MOST CRITICAL period. Electronic data from the truck’s systems (ECM, ELD, GPS) can be overwritten within days. Dashcam footage may be deleted. Witness memories begin to fade.
Attorney911 Insider Knowledge: We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that arrive at accident scenes to protect their interests—you need someone protecting yours just as quickly.
Short-Term Investigation (Days 1-30)
- Police Report Processing: The official accident report typically becomes available within 7-14 days, though complex cases may take longer.
- Insurance Company Contact: Both the trucking company’s insurer and your own insurance company will reach out. Do not give recorded statements without consulting an attorney.
- Medical Treatment: If you were injured, continue all recommended medical care. Gaps in treatment can be used against you by insurance companies.
- Evidence Gathering: Your attorney should begin collecting:
– Electronic data from the truck’s systems
– Driver qualification files
– Maintenance records
– Hours of service logs
– Cell phone records
– Surveillance footage from nearby businesses
Long-Term Investigation (30-180 Days)
- Accident Reconstruction: Experts analyze the physical evidence to determine exactly how the crash occurred.
- Liability Determination: Investigators identify all potentially liable parties (driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, manufacturers, etc.).
- Damage Assessment: Medical experts project future care needs, vocational experts assess lost earning capacity, and economists calculate lifetime costs.
- Settlement Negotiations: Most cases settle during this phase, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial.
Common Causes of Multi-Vehicle Trucking Accidents in Harlingen
While we don’t yet have all the details about what caused this specific crash on S Expressway 77, our experience handling hundreds of trucking accident cases in the Rio Grande Valley tells us that multi-vehicle collisions involving commercial trucks typically result from one or more of these common causes:
1. Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations
The Rio Grande Valley’s position as a major freight hub means our roads are filled with long-haul drivers pushing their limits. Federal regulations limit commercial drivers to:
- 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
- 14-hour on-duty window before mandatory rest
- 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
- 60/70-hour weekly limits with 34-hour restart required
Why This Matters in Harlingen:
The Valley’s agricultural and manufacturing industries create intense pressure to meet delivery deadlines. Drivers coming from Mexico, Houston, or San Antonio often push their hours to reach Valley distribution centers on time. When fatigue sets in, reaction times slow dramatically—just like being legally drunk.
FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 395.3 – Maximum driving time for property-carrying vehicles
2. Distracted Driving
Commercial drivers face unique distractions:
- Dispatch communications via Qualcomm or other messaging systems
- GPS navigation for unfamiliar Valley routes
- Cell phone use (texting is strictly prohibited)
- Eating while driving to save time
- Adjusting in-cab electronics
FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 392.82 – Prohibition against texting while driving
3. Improper Lane Changes and Blind Spot Collisions
Large trucks have significant blind spots—what the industry calls “No-Zones”:
- Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
- Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
- Left Side No-Zone: Extends from the cab door backward
- Right Side No-Zone: Extends from the cab door backward and is much larger than the left side
Why This Matters on S Expressway 77:
The multiple lanes and frequent merging on Expressway 77 create constant opportunities for blind spot collisions. When trucks change lanes without proper mirror checks, passenger vehicles can be sideswiped or forced off the road.
FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 392.11 – Following too closely and unsafe lane changes
4. Speeding and Failure to Adjust for Conditions
The 70 mph speed limit on S Expressway 77 doesn’t account for:
- Heavy traffic during peak hours
- Frequent merging from side streets and businesses
- Sudden slowdowns for construction zones
- Wet road conditions during Valley rainstorms
- Poor visibility during early morning fog
FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 392.6 – Speeding for conditions
5. Brake Failures and Maintenance Neglect
The Valley’s heat and dust take a toll on truck braking systems. Common issues include:
- Worn brake pads not replaced
- Improper brake adjustments
- Air brake system leaks
- Brake fade on long descents
- Contaminated brake fluid
Why This Matters in Harlingen:
The stop-and-go traffic on Expressway 77, combined with the frequent braking required for traffic lights and merging vehicles, puts tremendous stress on truck braking systems. When brakes fail, the results are often catastrophic.
FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 393.48 – Brake system requirements
6. Cargo Securement Failures
Improperly secured cargo can:
- Shift during transit, destabilizing the truck
- Fall onto the roadway, creating hazards for following vehicles
- Cause rollovers during sudden maneuvers
Why This Matters in the Rio Grande Valley:
The Valley’s agricultural products, construction materials, and manufactured goods create unique cargo securement challenges. Produce trucks, flatbeds carrying machinery, and tankers transporting liquids all require specialized securement procedures.
FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 393.100-136 – Cargo securement standards
7. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)
When trucks make right turns, they often swing wide to the left first. This creates a dangerous gap that passenger vehicles may try to enter, only to be crushed when the truck completes its turn.
Why This Matters on Harlingen Streets:
The numerous intersections along S Expressway 77, combined with the high volume of local traffic, create frequent opportunities for wide turn accidents. These are particularly dangerous for motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians.
8. Underride Collisions
Underride collisions occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath a truck’s trailer. These are among the most deadly trucking accidents, often resulting in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries.
Why This Matters in Harlingen:
While federal regulations require rear underride guards on most trailers, there are no requirements for side underride guards. The high speeds on Expressway 77 make underride collisions particularly deadly.
FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 393.86 – Rear impact guards
Who Can Be Held Liable in the Harlingen Three-Vehicle Crash?
In multi-vehicle trucking accidents, multiple parties may share responsibility. Our investigation would focus on identifying all potentially liable parties to maximize your recovery:
1. The Truck Driver
The driver may be personally liable for:
– Speeding or reckless driving
– Distracted driving (cell phone use, dispatch communications)
– Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
– Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
– Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
– Violation of traffic laws
2. The Trucking Company/Motor Carrier
Trucking companies can be held liable through:
– Respondeat Superior: Liability for employees’ actions within the scope of employment
– Negligent Hiring: Hiring drivers with poor safety records
– Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
– Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance
– Negligent Maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep
– Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service
Potential Corporate Defendants in Harlingen Cases:
While we don’t yet know which company was involved in this specific crash, the Rio Grande Valley’s trucking industry includes:
– Werner Enterprises – Major presence in the Valley with terminals in Harlingen and Brownsville
– Swift Transportation – Significant operations serving Valley agricultural and manufacturing sectors
– J.B. Hunt Transport – Major carrier with Valley distribution operations
– Local agricultural haulers – Numerous regional carriers transporting Valley produce
– Cross-border carriers – Companies specializing in Mexico-US freight
3. Cargo Owners and Shippers
The company that owned the cargo may be liable for:
– Providing improper loading instructions
– Failing to disclose hazardous cargo
– Requiring overweight loads
– Pressuring carriers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules
4. Cargo Loading Companies
Third-party loading companies may be liable for:
– Improper cargo securement
– Unbalanced load distribution
– Exceeding weight ratings
– Failure to use proper blocking and bracing
5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturers
Manufacturers may be liable for:
– Design defects in braking systems
– Defective stability control systems
– Faulty underride guards
– Defective tires or steering components
6. Parts Manufacturers
Companies that manufacture specific components may be liable for:
– Defective brake components
– Faulty tires causing blowouts
– Defective lighting systems
– Faulty coupling devices
7. Maintenance Companies
Third-party maintenance providers may be liable for:
– Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
– Failure to identify critical safety issues
– Improper brake adjustments
– Using substandard or incorrect parts
8. Freight Brokers
Freight brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:
– Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
– Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
– Failure to check carrier CSA scores
9. Government Entities
In limited circumstances, government entities may be liable for:
– Dangerous road design on S Expressway 77
– Failure to maintain safe road conditions
– Inadequate signage or traffic control devices
– Failure to address known hazards
Attorney911 Insider Advantage: Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for a national defense firm. He knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers evaluate claims, minimize payouts, and deny liability. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for accident victims.
The Legal Process: What Harlingen Victims Need to Know
If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident in Harlingen or anywhere in the Rio Grande Valley, understanding the legal process can help you make informed decisions about your case.
Texas Statute of Limitations
In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is strictly enforced, and missing it means losing your right to compensation forever.
Why This Matters: While two years may seem like a long time, evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.
Comparative Negligence in Texas
Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means:
- If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages
- Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
- If you’re more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover anything
Example: If you’re found 20% at fault for the accident and your damages total $100,000, you would recover $80,000.
Types of Damages Available
Texas law allows accident victims to recover three types of damages:
-
Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):
– Medical expenses (past and future)
– Lost wages
– Lost earning capacity
– Property damage
– Out-of-pocket expenses
– Life care costs -
Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life):
– Pain and suffering
– Mental anguish
– Loss of enjoyment of life
– Disfigurement
– Physical impairment
– Loss of consortium (impact on marriage/family relationships) -
Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence):
– Available when the defendant acted with gross negligence or malice
– Capped at the greater of:- (2 × economic damages) + (non-economic damages up to $750,000)
- $200,000
The Settlement Process
Most trucking accident cases settle before trial through a process that typically includes:
- Initial Demand: Your attorney sends a demand letter to the insurance company outlining your damages and demanding compensation.
- Negotiation: The insurance company responds with an offer, and negotiations begin.
- Mediation: If negotiations stall, a neutral mediator may help facilitate settlement discussions.
- Litigation: If settlement isn’t possible, your attorney files a lawsuit and the case proceeds through the court system.
Attorney911 Case Example: In a recent Harlingen-area trucking case, we secured a $2.5 million settlement for a family injured when a commercial truck failed to yield at an intersection. The trucking company initially offered $250,000, but our investigation revealed a pattern of hours of service violations and inadequate driver training. We prepared the case for trial, and the insurance company increased their offer to avoid court.
Why Harlingen Trucking Accident Cases Are Different
Trucking accident cases in Harlingen and the Rio Grande Valley present unique challenges and opportunities:
Unique Local Factors
- Cross-Border Traffic: The Valley’s proximity to Mexico creates unique challenges with cross-border carriers, driver qualifications, and cargo documentation.
- Agricultural Freight: The Valley’s produce industry creates specialized trucking needs, including refrigerated trailers and seasonal peak traffic.
- Oilfield Equipment: The Eagle Ford Shale region generates significant oilfield trucking, including oversize loads and hazardous materials.
- Port Traffic: The Port of Brownsville creates additional truck traffic moving containers and bulk cargo.
- Language Barriers: Many Valley drivers are bilingual, creating potential communication issues during investigations.
Local Trucking Corridors
Harlingen sits at the crossroads of several major trucking corridors:
| Route | Primary Freight | Key Risks |
|---|---|---|
| I-69/US-77 | Cross-border freight, agricultural products | High-speed collisions, fatigue-related crashes |
| US-83 | Retail merchandise, manufactured goods | Intersection accidents, wide turn collisions |
| US-281 | Oilfield equipment, construction materials | Oversize loads, hazardous materials |
| FM 507 | Local distribution, agricultural products | Rural road hazards, limited shoulders |
| Port of Brownsville Access Roads | Containerized cargo, bulk commodities | Congestion, merging accidents |
Local Industries and Their Trucking Risks
- Agriculture: Produce trucks, refrigerated trailers, seasonal peak traffic
- Manufacturing: Just-in-time delivery pressures, oversize loads
- Oil and Gas: Hazardous materials, oversize equipment, fatigue from long hauls
- Retail Distribution: High-volume delivery schedules, urban congestion
- Cross-Border Trade: Customs delays, driver qualification issues, cargo documentation
What to Do If You’re Involved in a Trucking Accident in Harlingen
If you or a loved one is involved in a trucking accident in Harlingen or anywhere in the Rio Grande Valley, follow these critical steps:
Immediate Actions (At the Scene)
- Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked out. Adrenaline masks pain, and some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately.
- Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of:
– All vehicles involved (from multiple angles)
– Vehicle damage (both exterior and interior)
– Road conditions, skid marks, debris
– Traffic signals and signs
– Your injuries
– The truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company name - Collect Information:
– Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
– Trucking company name and contact information
– Insurance information for all parties
– Witness names and contact information - Do NOT:
– Admit fault or apologize
– Give recorded statements to insurance adjusters
– Sign anything without consulting an attorney
After Leaving the Scene
- Follow Up with Medical Care: Attend all recommended follow-up appointments and follow your doctor’s orders.
- Document Everything: Keep a journal of your symptoms, medical visits, and how the injuries affect your daily life.
- Preserve Evidence: Save all accident-related documents, photos, and receipts.
- Contact an Attorney: The sooner you contact an experienced Harlingen trucking accident attorney, the better we can protect your rights.
Attorney911 Evidence Preservation Protocol:
Within hours of being retained, we send spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of:
– ECM/Black Box data
– ELD records
– Driver qualification files
– Maintenance records
– Cell phone records
– Dashcam footage
– GPS/telematics data
– Cargo documentation
– The physical truck and trailer
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting Too Long to Contact an Attorney: Evidence disappears quickly. The sooner we can begin our investigation, the stronger your case will be.
- Giving Recorded Statements: Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize claims. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Posting on Social Media: Insurance companies will use your social media posts to argue you’re not really injured.
- Accepting Early Settlement Offers: First offers are almost always lowball offers designed to pay you far less than your case is worth.
- Missing Medical Appointments: Gaps in treatment give insurance companies ammunition to argue you’re not really injured.
How Attorney911 Can Help Harlingen Trucking Accident Victims
At Attorney911, we bring a unique combination of experience, resources, and local knowledge to every trucking accident case we handle in Harlingen and the Rio Grande Valley.
Our Experience
- 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation: Ralph Manginello has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998.
- Federal Court Experience: We’re admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, which handles many interstate trucking cases.
- Former Insurance Defense Attorney: Lupe Peña spent years working for a national defense firm, giving us insider knowledge of how insurance companies evaluate and minimize claims.
- Multi-Million Dollar Results: We’ve secured significant verdicts and settlements for trucking accident victims across Texas.
Our Approach
- Immediate Action: We send spoliation letters within hours to preserve critical evidence.
- Comprehensive Investigation: We leave no stone unturned in building your case.
- Aggressive Negotiation: We fight for maximum compensation at every stage.
- Trial Preparation: We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, creating leverage in settlement negotiations.
- Compassionate Representation: We treat every client like family, not just another case number.
Our Resources
- Accident Reconstruction Experts: We work with top engineers to determine exactly how the accident occurred.
- Medical Experts: We consult with specialists to document your injuries and project future care needs.
- Vocational Experts: We assess how your injuries affect your ability to work.
- Economic Experts: We calculate the full financial impact of your injuries.
- Life Care Planners: We develop comprehensive care plans for catastrophic injuries.
Our Local Knowledge
We know Harlingen’s roads, industries, and legal landscape:
- Local Trucking Corridors: We understand the unique risks on S Expressway 77, I-69, US-83, and other Valley routes.
- Local Industries: We know the agricultural, manufacturing, and oilfield trucking patterns that affect Valley roads.
- Local Courts: We’re familiar with the judges, procedures, and expectations in Harlingen and Cameron County courts.
- Local Juries: We understand Valley juries and how to present cases effectively to local decision-makers.
Recent Trucking Verdicts and Settlements: What Harlingen Victims Can Expect
While every case is unique, recent verdicts and settlements in trucking accident cases demonstrate what’s possible when negligent trucking companies are held accountable:
| Case | Year | Location | Amount | Key Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger | 2021 | Texas | $730 Million | Oversize load killed 73-year-old woman; $480M compensatory + $250M punitive |
| Werner Enterprises Settlement | 2022 | Texas | $150 Million | Two children killed on I-30; largest 18-wheeler settlement in US history |
| St. Louis Underride Case | 2024 | Missouri | $462 Million | Two men decapitated in underride crash; manufacturer liability |
| Daimler Trucking Verdict | 2024 | Alabama | $160 Million | Rollover left driver quadriplegic; $75M compensatory + $75M punitive |
| Port of Houston Case | 2023 | Texas | $90 Million | Truck driver burned in explosion; refinery liability |
| I-10 Multi-Vehicle Crash | 2022 | Texas | $37.5 Million | Trucking company found grossly negligent |
| Harlingen-Area Settlement | 2023 | Texas | $2.5 Million | Family injured when truck failed to yield at intersection |
Attorney911 Insider Knowledge: These verdicts show that juries are increasingly willing to hold trucking companies accountable for negligence. The trend toward “nuclear verdicts” reflects growing public frustration with corporate safety failures. Insurance companies know this, which is why they fight so hard to minimize claims.
The Attorney911 Difference: Why Choose Us for Your Harlingen Trucking Accident Case
When you’re facing the aftermath of a serious trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a team that will fight for you like family. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:
1. We’re Trucking Accident Specialists
While many personal injury firms handle car accidents, we specialize in trucking cases. We understand:
– Federal trucking regulations (FMCSA)
– Commercial insurance policies
– Trucking industry practices
– The unique physics of truck crashes
– How to preserve and analyze trucking-specific evidence
2. We Have Insider Knowledge
Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows:
– How insurance companies evaluate claims
– What makes them settle
– What tactics they use to minimize payouts
– How to counter their strategies
3. We Prepare Every Case for Trial
Most cases settle, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach:
– Creates leverage in settlement negotiations
– Shows insurance companies we’re serious
– Ensures we’re ready if the case goes to court
– Results in better settlements for our clients
4. We Treat You Like Family
Our clients consistently tell us we treat them like family, not just case numbers:
“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved. They make you feel like FAMILY, not just another case number.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client
5. We Offer Bilingual Services
The Rio Grande Valley is home to a large Spanish-speaking population. Our team includes fluent Spanish speakers, including attorney Lupe Peña, ensuring you can communicate comfortably in your preferred language.
“Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.”
— Celia Dominguez, Attorney911 Client
6. We Work on Contingency
You pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation, so you never receive a bill from us.
7. We Have a Proven Track Record
Our results speak for themselves:
- $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
Frequently Asked Questions About Harlingen Trucking Accidents
What should I do immediately after a trucking accident in Harlingen?
If you’re able, take these steps:
1. Call 911 and report the accident
2. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
3. Document the scene with photos and videos
4. Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
5. Collect witness contact information
6. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
7. Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately
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 cases. This means you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means:
– If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can still recover damages
– Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
– If you’re more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover anything
For example, if you’re found 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you would recover $80,000.
How much is my trucking accident case worth?
Case values depend on many factors:
– Severity of your injuries
– Cost of your medical treatment (past and future)
– Amount of lost wages and lost earning capacity
– Degree of pain and suffering
– Whether the trucking company acted with gross negligence
– Available insurance coverage
While we can’t predict the exact value of your case without a full evaluation, recent trucking accident verdicts in Texas have ranged from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions of dollars.
Will my case go to trial?
Most trucking accident cases settle before trial. However, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach:
– Creates leverage in settlement negotiations
– Shows insurance companies we’re serious
– Ensures we’re ready if the case goes to court
What if the trucking company offers me a settlement?
Do not accept any settlement offer without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies often make lowball offers early in the process, hoping you’ll accept before you understand the full extent of your injuries and damages. We can evaluate any offer and negotiate for maximum compensation.
How long will my case take to resolve?
Timelines vary depending on:
– Severity of your injuries
– Complexity of the case
– Whether liability is disputed
– The trucking company’s willingness to negotiate
Simple cases may resolve in 6-12 months, while complex cases can take 2-3 years or longer.
What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?
Even if the driver was an independent contractor, both the driver and the trucking company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from all responsible parties.
Can I sue if a loved one was killed in a trucking accident?
Yes. Texas allows wrongful death claims when a loved one is killed by another’s negligence. Surviving family members may recover:
– Lost future income and benefits
– Loss of consortium (companionship and guidance)
– Mental anguish and emotional suffering
– Funeral and burial expenses
– Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)
What if I don’t have health insurance?
We can help you get the medical care you need. Many doctors will treat accident victims on a “lien basis,” meaning they’ll get paid from your settlement. We work with a network of medical providers who understand trucking accident cases.
How do I pay for an attorney?
We work on a contingency fee basis. This means:
– You pay nothing upfront
– We advance all costs of investigation and litigation
– You only pay if we win your case
– Our fee comes from the settlement, not your pocket
The Bottom Line: Why This Harlingen Crash Matters for Valley Drivers
The three-vehicle crash on South Expressway 77 isn’t just another news story—it’s a warning for every driver in Harlingen and the Rio Grande Valley. Our roads are filled with commercial trucks moving agricultural products, manufactured goods, oilfield equipment, and cross-border freight. While this commerce is vital to our economy, it also creates significant risks for passenger vehicles.
This incident highlights several critical truths about trucking safety in our region:
- Trucking accidents can happen anywhere—on our highways, our city streets, and even our rural roads.
- Multi-vehicle collisions are particularly dangerous when commercial trucks are involved due to their size and weight.
- The investigation process is complex and requires immediate action to preserve critical evidence.
- Multiple parties may share responsibility, making these cases more complex than typical car accidents.
- The injuries can be life-altering, affecting victims and their families for years to come.
At Attorney911, we’ve seen firsthand how trucking accidents change lives in an instant. We’ve represented Valley families who’ve suffered traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, and wrongful death. We know the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take.
But we also know that justice is possible. When trucking companies cut corners on safety, falsify logs, or pressure drivers to violate regulations, they need to be held accountable. That’s what we do—we fight for Valley families to ensure they receive the compensation they need to rebuild their lives.
What You Should Do Right Now
If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident in Harlingen or anywhere in the Rio Grande Valley, time is critical. Evidence is disappearing every day, and the trucking company’s insurance adjusters are already working to protect their interests.
Here’s what you should do right now:
- Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
- Don’t give recorded statements to any insurance company without legal representation.
- Continue all recommended medical treatment and follow your doctor’s orders.
- Document everything—keep a journal of your symptoms, medical visits, and how the injuries affect your daily life.
- Preserve all evidence—save accident-related documents, photos, and receipts.
Remember: You’re not just fighting a trucking company—you’re fighting their team of lawyers and insurance adjusters. You need someone on your side who knows how to level the playing field.
Our Promise to Harlingen Trucking Accident Victims
When you choose Attorney911, you’re not just hiring a law firm—you’re gaining a team that will fight for you like family. Here’s our promise to you:
- We’ll listen to your story and treat you with compassion and respect.
- We’ll investigate your case thoroughly, leaving no stone unturned.
- We’ll preserve all critical evidence before it disappears.
- We’ll fight for maximum compensation at every stage.
- We’ll communicate openly and honestly throughout the process.
- We’ll prepare your case as if it’s going to trial, creating leverage in negotiations.
- We’ll stand by your side until justice is served.
Contact Attorney911 Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Harlingen, Brownsville, McAllen, or anywhere in the Rio Grande Valley, don’t wait. Every day you delay is another day that critical evidence could be lost.
Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 or (713) 528-9070 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you understand your rights.
You can also reach us by email at ralph@atty911.com or visit our website at https://attorney911.com to learn more about how we can help.
Remember: The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of representation. Let us fight for you.
Learn more about trucking accident cases in our video guide:
– The Victim’s Guide to 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries
– Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Semi Truck?
– The Definitive Guide To Commercial Truck Accidents
Don’t let the trucking company win. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re ready to fight for you.