18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Andrews County, Texas

Every year, thousands of families in Texas are devastated by catastrophic 18-wheeler accidents on our highways. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in Andrews County, you need experienced legal representation that understands both the federal trucking regulations and the local realities of West Texas trucking corridors.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of the largest trucking companies in America. With offices serving Andrews County and deep familiarity with the Permian Basin’s unique trucking challenges, we’re ready to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Why Andrews County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Andrews County sits at the heart of the Permian Basin, one of the most active oil and gas regions in the world. This means our highways carry some of the heaviest truck traffic in Texas, with:

• Massive oilfield equipment being transported to drilling sites
• Hazardous materials moving through our communities
• Fatigued drivers pushing hours-of-service limits
• Overloaded trucks exceeding weight restrictions
• Inexperienced drivers navigating complex oilfield logistics

The trucking corridors serving Andrews County – including US-385, SH-115, and FM-181 – present unique challenges. Long straight stretches can lull drivers into complacency, while sudden turns and elevation changes create hazards. The extreme West Texas weather – from blinding dust storms to icy winter roads – adds another layer of danger to our highways.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Andrews County

Our experience handling trucking cases throughout West Texas has revealed patterns in how these catastrophic accidents occur:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Oilfield trucking creates intense pressure to meet tight deadlines. Drivers often violate federal hours-of-service regulations (49 CFR Part 395) that limit driving to:

• 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• No driving beyond the 14th consecutive hour on duty
• 30-minute break required after 8 hours of driving
• 60/70 hour weekly limits

When drivers push these limits – or falsify their electronic logging device (ELD) records – fatigue impairs their judgment and reaction time, often with deadly consequences.

Improper Cargo Loading and Securement

The Permian Basin’s oilfield equipment requires specialized loading techniques. When cargo isn’t properly secured according to 49 CFR Part 393 requirements, it can:

• Shift during transit, causing rollovers
• Fall onto other vehicles
• Create hazardous road debris
• Make trucks unstable in high winds

We’ve seen cases where improperly secured drilling equipment has fallen from flatbeds, crushing passenger vehicles on our highways.

Brake Failures and Poor Maintenance

The stop-and-go nature of oilfield traffic puts tremendous stress on truck braking systems. When maintenance is deferred to save costs, brake failures become inevitable. FMCSA regulations (49 CFR Part 396) require systematic inspection and maintenance, but many carriers cut corners.

Distracted and Impaired Driving

From cell phone use (prohibited by 49 CFR § 392.82) to fatigue and even substance abuse, distracted and impaired driving remains a persistent problem in the trucking industry. The long hours and isolation of West Texas trucking can contribute to these dangerous behaviors.

Inadequate Driver Training

The oilfield industry’s constant need for drivers sometimes leads to hiring underqualified personnel. FMCSA regulations (49 CFR Part 391) require motor carriers to maintain Driver Qualification Files, but we frequently find incomplete or falsified records in our investigations.

Catastrophic Injuries from Andrews County Trucking Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a 4,000-pound passenger vehicle, the results are often devastating:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

The force of a truck collision can cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull, leading to:

• Concussions and mild TBI
• Moderate to severe brain injuries with cognitive impairment
• Permanent disability requiring lifelong care
• Increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s

We’ve represented Andrews County families whose loved ones suffered TBI in trucking accidents, requiring millions of dollars in medical care and rehabilitation.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Spinal cord damage from trucking accidents can result in:

• Paraplegia (loss of function below the waist)
• Quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs)
• Incomplete injuries with partial function
• Permanent disability requiring assistive devices

The lifetime care costs for spinal cord injuries can exceed $5 million, making proper legal representation crucial for securing adequate compensation.

Amputations and Crush Injuries

The crushing forces in trucking accidents often lead to:

• Traumatic amputations at the scene
• Surgical amputations due to severe damage
• Crush syndrome from prolonged entrapment
• Complex regional pain syndrome

Prosthetic limbs alone can cost $5,000-$50,000 each, with replacement needed throughout the victim’s lifetime.

Severe Burns

Trucking accidents in Andrews County frequently involve:

• Fuel tank ruptures and fires
• Hazardous material spills
• Electrical fires from damaged wiring
• Chemical burns from industrial cargo

Burn injuries require extensive treatment, including multiple surgeries, skin grafts, and long-term rehabilitation.

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents prove fatal, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims to recover:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Andrews County Trucking Case

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for truck accident victims since 1998. His experience includes:

• Securing multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements
• Taking on Fortune 500 trucking companies
• Handling complex oilfield trucking cases
• Representing families in wrongful death claims

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our firm includes former insurance defense attorneys who know exactly how trucking companies and their insurers try to minimize claims. This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage in building your case and negotiating fair settlements.

Federal Court Experience

With admission to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, we can handle interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court. This is particularly important for Andrews County cases involving carriers from other states.

Local Knowledge of Andrews County

We understand the unique challenges of trucking in West Texas, including:

• The specific trucking corridors serving Andrews County
• Local weather patterns that affect driving conditions
• The oilfield industry’s impact on trucking safety
• The court system serving Andrews County

Aggressive Evidence Preservation

We act immediately to preserve critical evidence that trucking companies might destroy:

• ECM/Black Box data (can be overwritten in 30 days)
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
• Dashcam footage (often deleted within 7-14 days)
• Maintenance and inspection records
• Driver qualification files
• Cargo loading documentation

Comprehensive Case Investigation

Our investigation includes:

• Accident reconstruction by expert engineers
• Analysis of ECM and ELD data
• Review of maintenance and inspection records
• Examination of driver qualification files
• Investigation of cargo loading procedures
• Analysis of dispatch records and scheduling pressures

The Attorney911 Difference: How We Handle Andrews County Trucking Cases

Immediate Action (First 48 Hours)

• Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
• Obtain police accident reports
• Photograph the accident scene and vehicles
• Interview witnesses while memories are fresh
• Secure available surveillance footage

Thorough Investigation (Days 1-30)

• Subpoena ECM/Black Box data
• Obtain complete ELD records
• Request driver’s paper log books
• Secure Driver Qualification File
• Obtain maintenance and inspection records
• Order driver’s Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
• Subpoena cell phone records
• Obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules

Expert Analysis

• Accident reconstruction specialists
• Medical experts to establish causation
• Vocational experts for lost earning capacity
• Economic experts for damage calculations
• Life care planners for catastrophic injuries
• FMCSA regulation experts

Strategic Litigation

• File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires
• Aggressive discovery against all liable parties
• Depose truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager
• Build case for trial while negotiating settlement
• Prepare every case as if going to trial

Holding ALL Liable Parties Accountable

In Andrews County trucking accidents, multiple parties may share responsibility:

The Truck Driver

Direct negligence 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
• Traffic law violations

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

Vicarious liability for driver’s actions, plus direct negligence for:

• Negligent Hiring: Failing to check driver’s background
• Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
• Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance
• Negligent Maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate HOS

Cargo Owners and Shippers

Liability for:

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous cargo
• Requiring overweight loading
• Pressuring carriers to expedite shipments

Loading Companies

Liability for:

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

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

Product liability for:

• Design defects in brake systems
• Defective tires causing blowouts
• Faulty steering mechanisms
• Defective safety systems

Maintenance Companies

Liability for:

• Negligent repairs
• Failure to identify critical safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard parts

Freight Brokers

Liability for:

• Negligent selection of unsafe carriers
• Failure to verify carrier insurance
• Failure to check carrier safety records

Government Entities

Limited liability for:

• Dangerous road design
• Failure to maintain roads
• Inadequate signage

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents We Handle in Andrews County

Jackknife Accidents

When the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes. Common causes:

• Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
• Speeding on curves
• Improperly loaded or empty trailers
• Brake system failures

Rollover Accidents

When a truck tips onto its side or roof, often causing secondary crashes. Common causes:

• Taking turns too sharply at excessive speed
• Improperly secured cargo shifting center of gravity
• Liquid cargo “slosh” in tankers
• Overcorrection after tire blowouts

Underride Collisions

When a passenger vehicle slides underneath a trailer, often with catastrophic results:

• Rear Underride: Vehicle strikes back of trailer
• Side Underride: Vehicle impacts trailer side during turns
• Often fatal due to passenger compartment intrusion

Rear-End Collisions

Due to the massive weight disparity, these accidents cause severe injuries. Common causes:

• Following too closely
• Driver distraction
• Fatigue and delayed reaction
• Excessive speed for conditions
• Brake failures

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

When trucks swing wide before right turns, creating dangerous gaps. Common causes:

• Failure to properly signal
• Inadequate mirror checks
• Improper turn technique
• Driver inexperience

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)

The four major blind spots around 18-wheelers:

1. Front No-Zone (20 feet directly in front)
2. Rear No-Zone (30 feet behind)
3. Left Side No-Zone (extends backward)
4. Right Side No-Zone (largest blind spot)

Tire Blowout Accidents

Common in West Texas due to extreme heat and road conditions. Causes:

• Underinflated tires
• Overloaded vehicles
• Worn or aging tires
• Road debris
• Manufacturing defects

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes. Causes:

• Worn brake pads not replaced
• Improper brake adjustment
• Air brake system leaks
• Overheated brakes on long descents
• Contaminated brake fluid

Cargo Spill and Shift Accidents

When improperly secured cargo creates hazards. Types:

• Cargo Shift: Load moves during transit
• Cargo Spill: Load falls onto roadway
• Hazmat Spill: Hazardous materials leak

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Andrews County

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Andrews County, take these steps to protect your rights:

Immediate Actions (At the Scene)

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out
3. Document the Scene – Take photos and videos of:
   • All vehicle damage
   • The accident scene and road conditions
   • Skid marks and debris
   • Traffic signs and signals
   • Your injuries
4. Collect Information – Get:
   • Truck driver’s name and contact information
   • Trucking company name and DOT number
   • Witness names and contact information
   • Responding officer’s name and badge number
5. Avoid Discussing Fault – Don’t admit fault or apologize
6. Don’t Give Statements – Decline to give recorded statements to insurance companies

Critical Next Steps

1. Contact an Attorney Immediately – Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases
2. Follow Medical Advice – Attend all follow-up appointments
3. Document Everything – Keep records of:
   • Medical treatment
   • Time missed from work
   • Pain and symptoms
   • How injuries affect daily life
4. Avoid Social Media – Don’t post about the accident or your injuries
5. Don’t Accept Early Settlement Offers – First offers are always lowball

Understanding Your Legal Rights in Andrews County

Texas Statute of Limitations

You have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas. For wrongful death claims, the statute of limitations is also 2 years from the date of death. However, you should never wait this long to take action – evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases.

Comparative Negligence in Texas

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar rule. This means:

• If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you’re 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything

For example, if you’re found 20% at fault for an accident with $100,000 in damages, you would recover $80,000.

Damage Caps in Texas

Texas imposes complex caps on punitive damages in trucking cases:

• Greater of (2x economic damages + non-economic damages capped at $750,000) OR $200,000
• There are no caps on economic or non-economic damages in most personal injury cases

The Insurance Battle: What to Expect

Trucking companies and their insurers have teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim. Here’s what you’re up against:

Common Insurance Company Tactics

• Quick Lowball Offers – Designed to settle before you understand your injuries
• Denying or Minimizing Injuries – Claiming injuries aren’t as serious as you say
• Blaming the Victim – Arguing you were partially or fully at fault
• Delaying the Process – Hoping you’ll give up or settle for less
• Using Recorded Statements Against You – Twisting your words
• Pre-Existing Condition Defenses – Claiming injuries existed before the accident
• Gap in Treatment Attacks – Arguing you weren’t really injured if you missed appointments
• Sending Surveillance Investigators – Looking for evidence to discredit your claim
• Hiring “Independent” Medical Examiners – Doctors who work for insurers
• Drowning You in Paperwork – Hoping you’ll make mistakes

Our Counter-Strategies

Our firm’s former insurance defense attorneys know exactly how to counter these tactics:

• Never Accept First Offers – We know how to maximize your recovery
• Comprehensive Medical Documentation – Building an ironclad case
• Aggressive Investigation – Gathering evidence that disproves fault allegations
• Litigation Threat – Insurance companies know we’re prepared to go to trial
• Expert Witnesses – Medical, accident reconstruction, and vocational experts
• FMCSA Regulation Knowledge – Proving violations that establish negligence

What Your Case Might Be Worth

Case values depend on many factors, including:

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

• Medical Expenses – Past, present, and future medical costs
• Lost Wages – Income lost due to injury and recovery
• Lost Earning Capacity – Reduction in future earning ability
• Property Damage – Vehicle repair or replacement
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses – Transportation, home modifications, etc.
• Life Care Costs – Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

• Pain and Suffering – Physical pain from injuries
• Mental Anguish – Psychological trauma
• Loss of Enjoyment – Inability to participate in activities
• Disfigurement – Scarring and visible injuries
• Loss of Consortium – Impact on marriage and family relationships
• Physical Impairment – Reduced physical capabilities

Punitive Damages

Available when the trucking company acted with:

• Gross negligence
• Willful misconduct
• Conscious indifference to safety
• Fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence)

Recent Trucking Verdicts and Settlements in Texas

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

• $730 Million – 2021 Texas case involving oversize load that killed a woman
• $150 Million – 2022 Texas settlement for family of children killed on I-30
• $90 Million – Houston trucking case involving burn injuries
• $37.5 Million – Texas trucking verdict in 2024
• $35.5 Million – Texas family injured in truck accident
• $35 Million – 2025 Fort Worth trucking case (largest in Tarrant County)

These verdicts show that Texas juries are willing to hold trucking companies accountable for negligence that causes catastrophic injuries.

Andrews County Trucking Corridors: Where Accidents Happen

Andrews County’s position in the Permian Basin means our highways carry some of the heaviest truck traffic in Texas. The most dangerous corridors include:

US-385 (Andrews Highway)

• Primary north-south route through Andrews County
• Heavy oilfield traffic
• Long straight stretches can lead to driver complacency
• Sudden turns and elevation changes create hazards

SH-115 (Main Street in Andrews)

• Runs through downtown Andrews
• Mix of local and through traffic
• Intersections with high truck volume
• School zones require extra caution

FM-181 (County Road West)

• Connects to major oilfield operations
• Heavy equipment transport
• Rural road with limited shoulders
• Wildlife crossings

I-20 (Nearby Corridor)

• Major east-west interstate
• High volume of through traffic
• Long-haul trucking corridor
• Sudden weather changes

US-62/180 (Nearby Corridor)

• Connects to Odessa and Midland
• Oilfield service traffic
• Mix of local and regional trucking

Why Oilfield Trucking Creates Unique Risks

The Permian Basin’s oil and gas industry creates specific trucking hazards:

Specialized Equipment

• Oversize and overweight loads
• Wide turns requiring extra space
• Limited visibility for drivers
• Equipment that extends beyond trailers

Hazardous Materials

• Flammable liquids and gases
• Corrosive materials
• Toxic substances
• Explosive materials

24/7 Operations

• Nighttime driving increases fatigue risks
• Limited rest opportunities
• Pressure to meet production schedules
• Driver shortages lead to overtime

Rural Road Conditions

• Narrow roads with limited shoulders
• Poor lighting at night
• Wildlife crossings
• Dust storms reducing visibility

Andrews County Resources for Trucking Accident Victims

Medical Facilities

• Permian Regional Medical Center (Andrews) – Local emergency care
• Medical Center Hospital (Odessa) – Level III trauma center
• Midland Memorial Hospital – Comprehensive trauma services
• University Medical Center (Lubbock) – Level I trauma center

Law Enforcement

• Andrews Police Department – Local accident investigations
• Andrews County Sheriff’s Office – County-wide law enforcement
• Texas Department of Public Safety – Highway patrol and commercial vehicle enforcement

Support Services

• Andrews County EMS – Emergency medical services
• West Texas Rehabilitation Center – Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Texas Department of Transportation – Road condition information

Frequently Asked Questions About Andrews County Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Andrews County?

Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene with photos, collect witness information, and contact an attorney immediately. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases.

Who can I sue after a trucking accident in Andrews County?

Multiple parties may be liable, including:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• The cargo owner
• The loading company
• Truck and parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers

Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?

Yes. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Trucking companies can also be directly liable for negligent hiring, training, supervision, and maintenance.

What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover damages if you were 50% or less at fault. Our investigation will gather evidence to determine what really happened.

What is a truck’s “black box” and how does it help my case?

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) that record operational data including:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Engine RPM and throttle position
• GPS location
• Hours of service data

This objective evidence often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

How long does the trucking company keep black box and ELD data?

ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. ELD data must be retained for 6 months. This is why we send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this evidence.

What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We pursue:

• ECM/Black Box data
• ELD records
• Driver Qualification File
• Maintenance records
• Inspection reports
• Dispatch logs
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training records
• Cell phone records
• The physical truck and trailer

Can the trucking company destroy evidence?

Once they’re on notice of potential litigation, destroying evidence is spoliation – a serious legal violation. Courts can impose sanctions, monetary penalties, or even enter default judgment.

What are hours of service regulations and how do violations cause accidents?

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

• Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 hours off duty
• Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
• 30-minute break required after 8 hours driving
• 60/70 hour weekly limits

Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes.

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find:

• Hours of service violations (driving too long)
• False log entries (lying about driving time)
• Brake system deficiencies
• Cargo securement failures
• Drug and alcohol violations
• Unqualified drivers (no valid CDL or medical certificate)
• Failure to inspect vehicles

What is a Driver Qualification File and why does it matter?

FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a file for every driver containing:

• Employment application
• Driving record check
• Previous employer verification
• Medical certification
• Drug test results
• Training documentation

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

How do pre-trip inspections relate to my accident case?

Drivers must inspect their trucks before every trip. If they failed to conduct inspections or ignored known defects (bad brakes, worn tires, lighting problems), both the driver and company may be liable for negligence.

What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in Andrews County?

Due to the massive size and weight disparity, trucking accidents often cause:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Amputations
• Severe burns
• Internal organ damage
• Multiple fractures
• Wrongful death

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Andrews County?

Case values depend on:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of defendant’s negligence
• Insurance coverage available

Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.

What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in Andrews County?

Texas allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover:

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

Time limits apply – contact us immediately.

How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Andrews County?

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years from the date of the accident for personal injury claims and 2 years from the date of death for wrongful death claims. However, you should never wait this long – evidence disappears quickly.

How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

• Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
• Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
• Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.

Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?

No. We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

This can complicate liability, but both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.

How do cargo spills create liability?

When improperly secured cargo falls from a truck or shifts during transit, multiple parties may be liable:

• The cargo owner for improper loading instructions
• The loading company for improper securement
• The trucking company for failing to inspect the load
• The driver for failing to conduct en route inspections

What if a tire blowout caused my accident?

Tire blowouts can result from:

• Underinflated tires
• Overloaded vehicles
• Worn or aging tires
• Road debris
• Manufacturing defects

We investigate the cause and hold the responsible parties accountable.

How do brake failures get investigated?

Brake failure investigations include:

• Analyzing ECM data for brake application timing
• Inspecting brake components for wear and damage
• Reviewing maintenance records
• Examining brake adjustment records
• Testing brake performance
• Identifying manufacturing defects

Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes.

What if the truck’s dashcam recorded the accident?

Dashcam footage can be powerful evidence, showing:

• The truck driver’s actions before the crash
• Road conditions and visibility
• Traffic signals and signs
• The impact sequence
• The driver’s behavior in the cab

We act quickly to preserve this evidence before it’s overwritten.

Can I get the truck’s GPS data?

Yes. GPS and telematics data can show:

• The truck’s route and speed
• Stops and duration
• Hours of service compliance
• Driver behavior patterns

This data can prove violations of FMCSA regulations.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, their insurance policy may still provide coverage. We investigate all potential sources of recovery.

How are future medical expenses calculated?

Economic experts calculate future medical costs by:

• Reviewing current medical treatment
• Consulting with treating physicians
• Projecting future care needs
• Using life expectancy tables
• Accounting for inflation

What is loss of consortium?

Loss of consortium refers to the impact of injuries on marriage and family relationships, including:

• Loss of companionship
• Loss of affection
• Loss of sexual relations
• Loss of household services
• Impact on parenting

When are punitive damages available?

Punitive damages may be awarded when the trucking company acted with:

• Gross negligence
• Willful misconduct
• Conscious indifference to safety
• Fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence)

How do product defects (brakes, tires) create liability?

When defective truck components cause accidents, manufacturers may be liable under product liability law. This includes:

• Design defects
• Manufacturing defects
• Failure to warn of known dangers

What if road conditions contributed to my accident?

Government entities may be liable for:

• Dangerous road design
• Failure to maintain roads
• Inadequate signage
• Failure to install safety barriers

Special rules apply to government liability, including shorter notice requirements.

Can I sue for PTSD after a trucking accident?

Yes. PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) is compensable as a non-economic damage. Victims may experience:

• Flashbacks and nightmares
• Anxiety and depression
• Avoidance behaviors
• Sleep disturbances
• Emotional distress

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system. You can still recover damages if you were 50% or less at fault, but your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How do you prove the driver was fatigued?

We prove fatigue through:

• ELD data showing hours of service violations
• Dispatch records showing scheduling pressure
• Cell phone records showing late-night activity
• Witness testimony about driver behavior
• Video evidence of driver performance
• Expert testimony on fatigue effects

What is the FMCSA and how does it help my case?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates commercial trucking. Their regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399) establish safety standards that trucking companies must follow. Violations of these regulations help prove negligence.

Can I access the trucking company’s safety record?

Yes. FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov, including:

• CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
• Inspection history and out-of-service rates
• Crash history
• Safety rating

A poor safety record can prove the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on the road.

What experts do you use in trucking cases?

We retain:

• Accident reconstruction specialists
• Medical experts to establish causation
• Vocational experts for lost earning capacity
• Economic experts for damage calculations
• Life care planners for catastrophic injuries
• FMCSA regulation experts
• Human factors experts

How are wrongful death damages calculated?

Wrongful death damages include:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship and guidance)
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses before death
• Pain and suffering experienced by decedent before death
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

Call Attorney911 Today for Your Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Andrews County, don’t wait. Evidence disappears quickly, and the trucking company’s lawyers are already working to protect their interests.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and start building your case.

Hablamos Español. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

“Every hour you wait, evidence in your Andrews County trucking accident case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. Call Attorney911 NOW at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence.”

At Attorney911, we fight for maximum compensation for trucking accident victims throughout Andrews County and West Texas. With 25+ years of experience and a track record of multi-million dollar results, we have the knowledge and resources to take on the largest trucking companies.

Don’t let the trucking company push you around. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.