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Brownfield, Brownfield County, Texas Semi-Trailer Crash Fatality: Attorney911 Brings 25+ Years of Multi-Million Dollar Trucking Verdicts, Former Insurance Defense Attorney Insider Advantage, FMCSA Regulation Masters (49 CFR 390-399), Black Box & ELD Data Extraction Specialists, Jackknife, Rollover, Underride & All 18-Wheeler Crash Types, TBI, Spinal Cord Injury & Wrongful Death Advocates — $50+ Million Recovered for Texas Families, Free 24/7 Consultation, No Fee Unless We Win, 1-888-ATTY-911, Hablamos Español

February 26, 2026 33 min read
Brownfield, Brownfield County, Texas Semi-Trailer Crash Fatality: Attorney911 Brings 25+ Years of Multi-Million Dollar Trucking Verdicts, Former Insurance Defense Attorney Insider Advantage, FMCSA Regulation Masters (49 CFR 390-399), Black Box & ELD Data Extraction Specialists, Jackknife, Rollover, Underride & All 18-Wheeler Crash Types, TBI, Spinal Cord Injury & Wrongful Death Advocates — $50+ Million Recovered for Texas Families, Free 24/7 Consultation, No Fee Unless We Win, 1-888-ATTY-911, Hablamos Español - Attorney911

Tragedy on Texas Highways: Brownfield Resident Dies in Terry County Semi-Trailer Jackknife Crash

Every year, thousands of Texas families are devastated by preventable 18-wheeler accidents. The recent fatal jackknife crash in Terry County that claimed the life of a Brownfield resident is a stark reminder of the dangers lurking on our highways. When an 80,000-pound truck loses control, the consequences are often catastrophic – and the trucking companies responsible must be held accountable.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for Texas families affected by commercial trucking negligence. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against some of the largest trucking companies in America. If you’ve lost a loved one in a trucking accident, or if you’re recovering from serious injuries, you need an attorney who understands the complex web of federal regulations, corporate liability, and insurance tactics that these cases involve.

The Terry County Jackknife Crash: What We Know

On February 24, 2026, at approximately 10:04 PM, a semi-trailer traveling through Terry County experienced a catastrophic jackknife event that resulted in the death of a Brownfield resident. While the full details of this specific incident are still emerging, jackknife accidents follow predictable patterns that our firm has seen time and time again in cases across Texas.

Jackknife accidents occur when a truck’s trailer swings out to the side, forming an angle with the cab that resembles a folding pocket knife. This loss of control typically happens when:

  • The driver brakes suddenly or improperly
  • The trailer is empty or lightly loaded (making it more prone to swing)
  • Road conditions are slippery (rain, ice, or oil on the roadway)
  • The driver is traveling at excessive speed for conditions
  • The cargo is improperly secured or distributed

In the Terry County incident, we must ask: Was the driver properly trained to handle emergency braking situations? Were the truck’s brakes properly maintained? Was the cargo properly secured? Was the driver complying with federal hours-of-service regulations? These are the questions that experienced trucking accident attorneys investigate – and the answers often reveal corporate negligence that contributed to the tragedy.

Why Jackknife Accidents Are So Deadly

The physics of jackknife accidents make them particularly dangerous:

  1. Uncontrolled Trailer Movement: When a trailer swings out of control, it can sweep across multiple lanes of traffic, striking vehicles in its path with devastating force.

  2. Debris Field: The jackknifing trailer often sheds cargo or parts, creating a dangerous obstacle course for following vehicles.

  3. Secondary Collisions: The sudden blockage of multiple lanes leads to chain-reaction crashes as other drivers attempt to avoid the out-of-control truck.

  4. Underride Risk: Vehicles that strike the side of the trailer may become wedged underneath, resulting in catastrophic injuries or death.

  5. Roll-Over Potential: In severe cases, the jackknifing trailer can cause the entire rig to roll over, crushing vehicles beneath it.

In the Terry County crash, the Brownfield resident’s death underscores the human cost of these preventable accidents. While we don’t yet know the specific circumstances of this case, we know that jackknife accidents rarely happen without some form of negligence – whether it’s poor driver training, inadequate vehicle maintenance, or pressure from the trucking company to meet unrealistic delivery schedules.

The Trucking Industry’s Role in Preventing Jackknife Accidents

The trucking industry has known about the dangers of jackknife accidents for decades. Modern trucks are equipped with technologies designed to prevent or mitigate these events:

  • Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS): Prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, allowing drivers to maintain steering control.
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Automatically applies brakes to individual wheels to prevent trailer swing.
  • Roll Stability Control (RSC): Detects and prevents rollover conditions.
  • Proper Loading Procedures: Ensuring cargo is properly distributed and secured.
  • Driver Training Programs: Teaching proper braking techniques and emergency maneuvers.

Yet despite these safety measures, jackknife accidents continue to occur at alarming rates. Why? Because trucking companies often prioritize profits over safety:

  • Inadequate Driver Training: Many companies cut corners on training to get drivers on the road faster.
  • Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Deferred maintenance saves money in the short term but leads to equipment failures.
  • Unrealistic Scheduling: Drivers are pressured to meet tight deadlines, leading to speeding and fatigue.
  • Cost-Cutting on Safety Equipment: Some companies opt for cheaper, less effective safety systems.
  • Failure to Enforce Safety Policies: Written policies are meaningless if they’re not enforced.

In the Terry County case, we must examine whether the trucking company involved had these safety systems in place – and if they were properly maintained and used. We must also investigate whether the driver was properly trained and whether the company’s scheduling practices contributed to the accident.

FMCSA Regulations That Could Have Prevented This Tragedy

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established comprehensive regulations designed to prevent exactly this type of accident. When trucking companies violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that can lead to catastrophic crashes.

Hours of Service Regulations (49 CFR Part 395)

Fatigue is a leading cause of jackknife accidents. FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

Regulation Requirement Potential Violation in This Case
11-Hour Driving Limit Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty Was the driver operating beyond this limit?
14-Hour On-Duty Window Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty Was the driver pushing beyond this window?
30-Minute Break Rule Mandatory break after 8 cumulative hours of driving Did the driver skip required breaks?
60/70-Hour Weekly Limit 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days Was the driver operating beyond weekly limits?

Why This Matters: Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times and are more likely to make critical errors in emergency situations. If the Terry County driver was violating hours-of-service regulations, both the driver and the trucking company could be held liable.

Vehicle Maintenance Requirements (49 CFR Part 396)

Proper vehicle maintenance is critical for preventing jackknife accidents:

Regulation Requirement Potential Violation in This Case
Systematic Inspection Regular, thorough inspections of all vehicle systems Were inspections conducted and documented?
Brake System Maintenance Brakes must be properly adjusted and functional Were the brakes in proper working order?
Tire Condition Tires must have adequate tread and be properly inflated Were the tires properly maintained?
Pre-Trip Inspections Drivers must inspect vehicles before each trip Did the driver conduct a proper pre-trip inspection?
Post-Trip Reports Drivers must report any defects after each trip Were defects reported and addressed?

Why This Matters: Brake failures and tire blowouts are common causes of jackknife accidents. If the Terry County truck had maintenance issues that contributed to the crash, the trucking company could be held responsible for negligent maintenance.

Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR Part 391)

Trucking companies are responsible for hiring qualified drivers:

Regulation Requirement Potential Violation in This Case
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Driver must hold valid CDL Did the driver have proper licensing?
Medical Certification Driver must be physically qualified Was the driver medically certified?
Background Check Company must verify driving record Was a proper background check conducted?
Training Requirements Driver must be properly trained Was the driver adequately trained?
Drug and Alcohol Testing Pre-employment and random testing Was the driver properly tested?

Why This Matters: If the Terry County driver was unqualified, improperly licensed, or had a history of safety violations, the trucking company could be liable for negligent hiring.

Cargo Securement Rules (49 CFR Part 393)

Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, affecting vehicle stability:

Regulation Requirement Potential Violation in This Case
Working Load Limits Tiedowns must meet specific strength requirements Were proper tiedowns used?
Number of Tiedowns Minimum number based on cargo length and weight Were enough tiedowns used?
Load Distribution Cargo must be evenly distributed Was the cargo properly balanced?
Special Requirements Additional rules for specific cargo types Were special requirements followed?

Why This Matters: Shifting cargo can cause a trailer to become unstable, increasing the risk of jackknife accidents. If the Terry County truck’s cargo was improperly secured, this could have contributed to the crash.

Who Could Be Held Liable in the Terry County Crash?

In trucking accident cases, multiple parties may share responsibility for the tragedy. Our investigation would focus on all potentially liable parties:

1. The Truck Driver

The driver is often the first line of responsibility. Potential issues we would investigate:

  • Fatigue: Was the driver operating beyond FMCSA hours-of-service limits?
  • Distraction: Was the driver using a cell phone or other electronic device?
  • Impairment: Did drugs or alcohol play a role in the crash?
  • Training: Was the driver properly trained to handle emergency situations?
  • Driving Record: Did the driver have a history of safety violations?

2. The Trucking Company

Trucking companies are often the most important defendants because they have the deepest pockets and the most responsibility for safety. Potential issues:

  • Negligent Hiring: Did the company hire an unqualified or dangerous driver?
  • Negligent Training: Did the company provide inadequate safety training?
  • Negligent Supervision: Did the company monitor the driver’s compliance with safety regulations?
  • Negligent Maintenance: Did the company fail to properly maintain the vehicle?
  • Negligent Scheduling: Did the company pressure the driver to meet unrealistic deadlines?

3. The Cargo Owner/Shipper

The company that owned the cargo may share liability if:

  • They provided improper loading instructions
  • They failed to disclose hazardous cargo
  • They required overweight loading
  • They pressured the carrier to expedite delivery

4. The Loading Company

If a third party loaded the cargo, they may be liable for:

  • Improper cargo securement
  • Unbalanced load distribution
  • Failure to use proper blocking and bracing
  • Overloading the vehicle

5. Vehicle and Parts Manufacturers

If equipment failure contributed to the crash, manufacturers may be liable for:

  • Defective brake systems
  • Defective tires
  • Defective stability control systems
  • Defective coupling devices

6. Maintenance Providers

Third-party maintenance companies may be liable if:

  • They performed negligent repairs
  • They failed to identify critical safety issues
  • They used substandard parts
  • They returned the vehicle to service with known defects

7. Government Entities

In rare cases, government agencies may share liability if:

  • Dangerous road design contributed to the crash
  • Inadequate signage failed to warn of hazards
  • Poor road maintenance created dangerous conditions

The Human Cost: Catastrophic Injuries in Trucking Accidents

While the Terry County crash resulted in a fatality, many trucking accidents leave survivors with life-altering injuries. At Attorney911, we’ve represented clients who suffered:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

The extreme forces involved in jackknife accidents often cause TBI, even when victims are wearing seatbelts. Symptoms may include:

  • Loss of consciousness
  • Memory problems
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Mood changes and personality shifts
  • Chronic headaches
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)

Lifetime Impact: Severe TBI can result in permanent cognitive impairment, requiring lifelong care and supervision. The lifetime cost of care for a severe TBI can exceed $3 million.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

The crushing forces in jackknife accidents frequently cause spinal cord damage:

Injury Level Potential Paralysis Lifetime Care Costs
Cervical (C1-C4) Quadriplegia (arms and legs) $4.7 – $7.2 million
Cervical (C5-C8) Partial quadriplegia $3.5 – $5.0 million
Thoracic (T1-T12) Paraplegia (legs) $2.3 – $3.5 million
Lumbar (L1-L5) Partial paraplegia $1.6 – $2.5 million

Lifetime Impact: Beyond the financial costs, paralysis dramatically affects quality of life, independence, and emotional well-being.

Amputations

Crushing injuries or entrapment in jackknife accidents can lead to traumatic amputations or necessitate surgical removal of limbs.

Lifetime Impact: Amputees face ongoing medical needs, including prosthetic limbs (which can cost $5,000-$50,000 each and need replacement every few years), physical therapy, and psychological counseling.

Severe Burns

When jackknife accidents result in fires or explosions, victims may suffer severe burns:

Burn Degree Depth Treatment Required Potential Complications
First Epidermis Minor, heals without scarring None
Second Epidermis + Dermis May require skin grafts Scarring, infection
Third Full thickness Skin grafts required Permanent scarring, infection risk
Fourth Through skin to muscle/bone Multiple surgeries, possible amputation Life-threatening complications

Lifetime Impact: Severe burns often require multiple reconstructive surgeries and can result in permanent disfigurement and chronic pain.

Internal Organ Damage

The extreme forces in jackknife accidents can cause internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent:

  • Liver lacerations
  • Spleen damage
  • Kidney injuries
  • Lung contusions
  • Internal bleeding
  • Bowel perforations

Lifetime Impact: Internal injuries can lead to long-term health complications and may require ongoing medical treatment.

If you’ve lost a loved one in a trucking accident like the Terry County crash, or if you’re recovering from serious injuries, understanding the legal process is crucial.

Immediate Steps

  1. Preserve Evidence: Critical evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage may be deleted within weeks. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this evidence.

  2. Document Everything: Keep records of all medical treatment, expenses, and how the injuries have affected your life. Take photographs of injuries, property damage, and the accident scene if possible.

  3. Don’t Talk to Insurance Adjusters: Insurance companies work for the trucking company, not for you. Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim.

  4. Consult an Attorney: The sooner you involve an experienced trucking accident attorney, the stronger your case will be.

The Investigation Process

Our firm conducts thorough investigations in trucking cases:

  1. Accident Reconstruction: We work with expert engineers to determine exactly what happened and who was at fault.

  2. Electronic Data Analysis: We obtain and analyze black box data, ELD records, GPS data, and cell phone records.

  3. Driver Qualification Review: We examine the driver’s employment file, training records, and driving history.

  4. Vehicle Inspection: We inspect the truck for maintenance issues, equipment failures, and compliance with safety regulations.

  5. Corporate Practices Review: We investigate the trucking company’s safety culture, hiring practices, and compliance history.

Depending on the circumstances of the Terry County crash, potential legal claims might include:

  1. Wrongful Death: If a loved one was killed, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for:
    – Lost future income
    – Loss of companionship and guidance
    – Mental anguish
    – Funeral expenses
    – Medical expenses before death

  2. Survival Action: Compensation for the pain and suffering the deceased experienced before death.

  3. Personal Injury: If you were injured, you may be entitled to compensation for:
    – Medical expenses (past and future)
    – Lost wages
    – Lost earning capacity
    – Pain and suffering
    – Mental anguish
    – Physical impairment
    – Disfigurement

  4. Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, punitive damages may be available to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct.

The Settlement Process

Most trucking accident cases settle before trial. The settlement process typically involves:

  1. Demand Letter: We send a comprehensive demand to the trucking company’s insurance carrier, detailing the facts of the case, the injuries, and the compensation sought.

  2. Negotiation: We negotiate aggressively with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement.

  3. Mediation: If negotiations stall, we may participate in mediation with a neutral third party to facilitate settlement.

  4. Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we file a lawsuit and prepare for trial.

Why You Need an Experienced Trucking Accident Attorney

Trucking accident cases are among the most complex personal injury cases. They require specialized knowledge of:

  • Federal trucking regulations (FMCSA)
  • Commercial vehicle insurance policies
  • Accident reconstruction techniques
  • Trucking industry practices
  • Corporate liability theories

At Attorney911, we have this specialized knowledge. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers operate.

Our Advantage: Insider Knowledge of Insurance Tactics

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm before joining Attorney911. He knows:

  • How insurance companies evaluate claims
  • What makes them settle for maximum amounts
  • How they train adjusters to minimize payouts
  • What evidence they look for to deny claims
  • How they use recorded statements against victims

This insider knowledge gives our clients a significant advantage in settlement negotiations and at trial.

Our Track Record in Trucking Cases

Attorney911 has a proven track record of success in trucking accident cases:

  • $2.5+ Million Truck Crash Recovery: We secured this substantial settlement for a client injured in a commercial trucking accident.
  • Millions Recovered for Wrongful Death: We’ve helped numerous Texas families recover compensation after losing loved ones in trucking accidents.
  • Successful Litigation Against Major Carriers: We’ve taken on and won cases against some of the largest trucking companies in America, including Walmart, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS.

Ralph Manginello’s 25+ years of experience, combined with our firm’s resources and expertise, allow us to handle even the most complex trucking cases.

While we don’t yet know the specific circumstances of the Terry County crash, several landmark cases demonstrate how courts handle trucking accident litigation:

1. Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger, Inc. (2021) – $730 Million Verdict

In one of the largest trucking verdicts in history, a Texas jury awarded $730 million to the family of a woman killed by an oversize load. The case involved:

  • A Navy propeller being transported as an oversize load
  • Inadequate securing of the load
  • Failure to obtain proper permits
  • Driver fatigue

Why It’s Relevant: This case demonstrates that Texas juries will hold trucking companies accountable for gross negligence, even when the damages seem astronomical. It also shows the importance of thorough investigation into loading practices and driver compliance.

2. Werner Enterprises Settlement (2022) – $150 Million

In what was reportedly the largest 18-wheeler settlement in U.S. history, Werner Enterprises settled a case involving two children killed on I-30. The case involved:

  • Allegations of driver fatigue
  • Hours-of-service violations
  • Inadequate safety training

Why It’s Relevant: This case underscores the devastating consequences of driver fatigue and the importance of enforcing hours-of-service regulations. It also shows that trucking companies with poor safety records face significant liability exposure.

3. St. Louis Underride Case (2024) – $462 Million Verdict

A Missouri jury awarded $462 million to the families of two men decapitated in an underride crash. The case involved:

  • Inadequate underride guards
  • Manufacturer liability
  • Failure to comply with safety standards

Why It’s Relevant: While the Terry County crash involved a jackknife rather than an underride, this case demonstrates how equipment failures and design defects can lead to catastrophic consequences. It also shows that manufacturers can be held liable for failing to implement adequate safety measures.

4. Street v. Daimler Trucks North America (2024) – $160 Million Verdict

An Alabama jury awarded $160 million to a man left quadriplegic after a rollover crash. The case involved:

  • Allegations of defective truck design
  • Failure to implement electronic stability control
  • Inadequate driver training

Why It’s Relevant: This case demonstrates the importance of modern safety technologies in preventing rollover accidents. It also shows that trucking companies can be held liable for failing to implement available safety measures.

The Trucking Industry’s Response to Nuclear Verdicts

The trucking industry has been reeling from a wave of “nuclear verdicts” – jury awards exceeding $10 million. These verdicts have led to:

  • Increased Insurance Costs: Trucking companies are seeing double-digit increases in insurance premiums.
  • Safety Improvements: Some companies are investing in better safety technologies and training.
  • Industry Consolidation: Smaller carriers are being acquired by larger companies with more resources to handle litigation.
  • Lobbying Efforts: The industry is pushing for tort reform to limit jury awards.

Despite these changes, many trucking companies continue to prioritize profits over safety. The Terry County crash is a tragic reminder that more needs to be done to protect Texas families.

How This Affects Brownfield and Terry County Families

While the Terry County crash occurred in a specific location, the dangers it represents affect families throughout West Texas. Brownfield and the surrounding communities face unique trucking risks:

1. Oil and Gas Industry Truck Traffic

The Permian Basin’s oil and gas industry generates significant truck traffic on local roads. These trucks often:

  • Carry hazardous materials
  • Operate on tight schedules
  • Travel on rural roads not designed for heavy traffic
  • Are driven by fatigued workers

2. Agricultural Trucking

West Texas’s agricultural industry relies heavily on trucking to transport:

  • Cotton
  • Grain
  • Livestock
  • Farm equipment

These trucks often travel on rural roads with limited shoulders and poor lighting.

3. Long-Haul Corridors

Interstate 20 and other major highways in the region serve as long-haul corridors, bringing through traffic that may include:

  • Fatigued drivers
  • Poorly maintained vehicles
  • Improperly secured cargo

4. Rural Road Challenges

Many roads in Terry County and surrounding areas present unique challenges:

  • Limited lighting
  • Poor signage
  • Narrow shoulders
  • Sharp curves
  • Limited emergency response resources

What Brownfield Families Can Do to Protect Themselves

While we can’t eliminate all trucking risks, there are steps Brownfield families can take to stay safer on the roads:

  1. Be Extra Cautious Around Trucks: Remember that trucks have large blind spots and require much longer stopping distances.

  2. Avoid the “No-Zones”: Stay out of the blind spots directly in front of, behind, and to the sides of large trucks.

  3. Pass Safely: When passing a truck, do so quickly and don’t linger in the blind spot.

  4. Give Trucks Space: Don’t follow too closely behind trucks, and be aware that trucks may need to swing wide to make turns.

  5. Report Unsafe Trucks: If you see a truck with obvious safety issues (wobbling trailer, smoking brakes, unsecured cargo), report it to local law enforcement.

  6. Stay Informed: Follow local news about trucking safety issues in the area.

  7. Know Your Rights: If you’re involved in a trucking accident, consult an attorney immediately to protect your rights.

The Attorney911 Difference

When you’re facing the aftermath of a trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team of experienced advocates who understand the unique challenges of these cases. At Attorney911, we offer:

1. Immediate Response

We understand that evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. That’s why we:

  • Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
  • Deploy accident reconstruction experts immediately
  • Preserve black box data before it’s overwritten
  • Secure dashcam footage before it’s deleted

2. Comprehensive Investigation

Our investigations leave no stone unturned:

  • Electronic Data Analysis: We obtain and analyze ECM, ELD, GPS, and cell phone records.
  • Driver Qualification Review: We examine the driver’s employment file, training records, and compliance history.
  • Vehicle Inspection: We inspect the truck for maintenance issues and equipment failures.
  • Corporate Practices Review: We investigate the trucking company’s safety culture and compliance history.
  • Accident Reconstruction: We work with expert engineers to determine exactly what happened.

3. Insider Knowledge of Insurance Tactics

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 for maximum amounts
  • How they train adjusters to minimize payouts
  • What evidence they look for to deny claims
  • How they use recorded statements against victims

This insider knowledge gives our clients a significant advantage in settlement negotiations and at trial.

4. Aggressive Litigation

While we always prefer to settle cases fairly, we’re prepared to take your case to trial if necessary. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has 25+ years of courtroom experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against some of the largest trucking companies in America.

5. Compassionate Representation

We understand that trucking accidents cause more than just physical injuries – they cause emotional trauma, financial stress, and life-altering changes. We treat our clients like family, providing the support and guidance they need throughout the legal process.

What to Do If You’ve Been Affected by a Trucking Accident

If you or a loved one has been affected by a trucking accident in Terry County, Brownfield, or anywhere in Texas, here’s what you should do:

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, get checked out by a doctor. Many injuries don’t show symptoms immediately.

  2. Document Everything: Take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Keep records of all medical treatment and expenses.

  3. Don’t Talk to Insurance Adjusters: Insurance companies work for the trucking company, not for you. Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim.

  4. Consult an Attorney Immediately: The sooner you involve an experienced trucking accident attorney, the stronger your case will be. Critical evidence disappears quickly in these cases.

  5. Don’t Sign Anything: Never sign any documents from the trucking company or their insurance carrier without consulting an attorney.

  6. Follow Your Doctor’s Orders: Attend all medical appointments and follow your treatment plan. This not only helps your recovery but also strengthens your legal case.

The Time to Act Is Now

In trucking accident cases, time is of the essence. Critical evidence can disappear within days or weeks:

  • Black Box Data: Can be overwritten in as little as 30 days
  • Dashcam Footage: Often deleted within 7-14 days
  • Witness Memories: Fade significantly within weeks
  • Physical Evidence: Vehicles may be repaired or scrapped

The trucking company and their insurance carrier are already working to protect their interests. You need someone working just as hard to protect yours.

At Attorney911, we offer:

  • Free Consultations: We’ll evaluate your case at no cost to you.
  • No Upfront Fees: We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win.
  • 24/7 Availability: We’re here when you need us, day or night.
  • Compassionate Representation: We treat our clients like family.
  • Aggressive Advocacy: We fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you’ve lost a loved one in the Terry County jackknife crash, or if you’re recovering from injuries in any trucking accident, don’t wait to get the help you need. Our experienced trucking accident attorneys are ready to fight for you.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, and our team of experienced attorneys have the knowledge, resources, and determination to take on the trucking companies and their insurance carriers. We’ll investigate your case thoroughly, preserve critical evidence, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Remember, the trucking company has lawyers working to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of representation. Don’t let them take advantage of you during this difficult time.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trucking Accidents

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

A: In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit. However, you should never wait this long to consult an attorney. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner you involve an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

Q: What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

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

Q: How much is my trucking accident case worth?

A: The value of your case depends on many factors, including:
– The severity of your injuries
– Your medical expenses (past and future)
– Your lost wages and earning capacity
– Your pain and suffering
– The degree of the trucking company’s negligence
– The available insurance coverage

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical auto policies, often $1 million or more. This means that catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.

Q: What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

A: Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means you can still recover compensation as long as you were not more 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.

Q: Should I accept the insurance company’s settlement offer?

A: Never accept a settlement offer without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies often make lowball offers early in the process, before you understand the full extent of your injuries. An experienced trucking accident attorney can evaluate the offer and negotiate for a fair settlement.

Q: What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

A: Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, there may still be avenues for recovery. We investigate all potential sources of compensation, including:
– The trucking company’s insurance policy
– The driver’s personal insurance
– Other liable parties (maintenance companies, manufacturers, etc.)
– Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage

Final Thoughts: Justice for the Terry County Victim

The death of the Brownfield resident in the Terry County jackknife crash is a tragedy that should never have happened. While we don’t yet know all the details of this specific case, we know that jackknife accidents are almost always preventable. They’re the result of corporate negligence – inadequate training, poor maintenance, unrealistic scheduling, or a combination of these factors.

At Attorney911, we believe that trucking companies must be held accountable when their negligence causes harm. We’ve seen firsthand how these companies prioritize profits over safety, and we’ve seen the devastating consequences for Texas families.

If you’ve lost a loved one in this crash, or if you’re recovering from injuries in any trucking accident, you don’t have to face this alone. Our experienced attorneys are ready to fight for you. We’ll investigate the crash thoroughly, preserve critical evidence, and pursue all liable parties to secure the compensation you deserve.

The time to act is now. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Ralph Manginello and our entire team are ready to stand with you during this difficult time. We’ll fight for justice for your family and work to prevent future tragedies on our highways.

Don’t let the trucking company get away with it. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today.

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