18-Wheeler Accidents in Borden County, Texas: Your Complete Legal Guide

Every year, thousands of 18-wheeler accidents occur on Texas highways. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in Borden County, you need an attorney who understands federal trucking regulations, Texas state laws, and how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. We know Borden County’s trucking corridors, local courts, and the tactics trucking companies use to avoid responsibility.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. Evidence disappears fast—black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. We’ll send a preservation letter immediately to protect your rights.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in Borden County Are Different

Trucking accidents in Borden County present unique challenges compared to regular car crashes:

• Higher stakes: Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million in insurance—far more than typical auto policies.
• Multiple liable parties: You may be able to sue the driver, trucking company, cargo loader, maintenance provider, or manufacturer.
• Federal regulations: The FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) sets strict rules on driver hours, vehicle maintenance, and cargo securement. Violations can prove negligence.
• Severe injuries: Due to the massive size disparity (an 18-wheeler weighs 20-25 times more than a passenger car), truck crashes often result in traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, or wrongful death.
• Aggressive defense: Trucking companies hire rapid-response teams to destroy evidence, pressure victims into quick settlements, and deny claims.

If you’ve been hurt in a trucking accident in Borden County, you need an attorney who knows how to fight back.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Borden County

Trucking accidents in Borden County often result from negligence, regulatory violations, or equipment failures. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)

Federal law limits truck drivers to:

• 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-hour on-duty window (including non-driving tasks)
• 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
• 60/70-hour weekly limit (with a 34-hour restart)

Why it matters in Borden County:

• Many truckers pass through Borden County on long-haul routes (I-10, I-20, US-87).
• Trucking companies pressure drivers to meet tight deadlines, leading to falsified logbooks and fatigued driving.
• ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data can prove HOS violations—but it overwrites in 30 days.

How we prove fatigue:

• Subpoena ELD records to show driving beyond legal limits
• Obtain dispatch logs to prove unrealistic delivery schedules
• Review driver qualification files for prior fatigue-related violations

2. Distracted Driving

Truck drivers face strict federal bans on:

• Handheld phone use (49 CFR § 392.82)
• Texting while driving (49 CFR § 392.80)
• Using GPS, dispatch devices, or other electronics while driving

Why it matters in Borden County:

• Rural highways like US-87 and FM 1054 have long stretches where drivers may become complacent.
• Cell phone records can prove distraction—but trucking companies fight to hide them.

How we prove distraction:

• Subpoena cell phone records to show calls/texts at the time of the crash
• Obtain dashcam footage (if available)
• Interview witnesses who saw the driver on their phone

3. Improper Cargo Securement

Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) require:

• Proper tiedowns to prevent shifting
• Load balancing to avoid rollovers
• Blocking and bracing for heavy cargo

Why it matters in Borden County:

• Agricultural trucks (hay, livestock, equipment) are common in Borden County.
• Oilfield equipment and hazardous materials transport increases rollover risks.
• Improperly secured loads can fall onto other vehicles or cause the truck to jackknife.

How we prove cargo violations:

• Inspect tiedown equipment for wear and tear
• Review loading records to show improper securement
• Obtain accident reconstruction reports to prove cargo shift caused the crash

4. Brake Failures & Poor Maintenance

• Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes (FMCSA).
• Federal law requires daily pre-trip inspections and annual brake system checks.
• Worn brake pads, air leaks, or improper adjustments can cause rear-end collisions.

Why it matters in Borden County:

• Steep grades on US-87 and FM 1054 increase brake strain.
• Oilfield trucks often carry heavy loads, increasing brake wear.

How we prove maintenance failures:

• Obtain maintenance records to show deferred repairs
• Inspect brake components for defects
• Review driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs) for ignored issues

5. Tire Blowouts

• Tire blowouts cause 11,000+ crashes per year.
• Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.75) require:
  • Minimum tread depth (4/32″ on steer tires, 2/32″ on others)
  • No visible damage (cuts, bulges, exposed cords)
  • Proper inflation (underinflation causes overheating)

Why it matters in Borden County:

• High temperatures in West Texas increase tire failure risks.
• Debris on rural roads (nails, rocks, metal) can puncture tires.

How we prove tire failures:

• Preserve the failed tire for expert analysis
• Obtain tire purchase and maintenance records
• Check weigh station records for overloaded trucks

6. Underride Collisions (The Deadliest Truck Accidents)

• Underride crashes occur when a car slides under a trailer, often shearing off the roof and causing decapitation or fatal head injuries.
• Rear underride guards are required (49 CFR § 393.86), but side underride guards are not (despite advocacy for them).

Why it matters in Borden County:

• Poor lighting on rural roads increases underride risks.
• Sudden stops on highways (due to wildlife or debris) can lead to underride crashes.

How we prove underride negligence:

• Inspect the underride guard for compliance
• Check maintenance records for guard damage
• Obtain accident reconstruction reports to show guard failure

7. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play” Crashes)

• Trucks need extra space to make right turns.
• Drivers often swing left first, creating a gap that cars may enter.
• When the truck turns right, it crushes the car in the gap.

Why it matters in Borden County:

• Narrow intersections in Gail (county seat) and rural crossroads increase wide-turn risks.
• Lack of truck-specific turn signals can confuse other drivers.

How we prove wide-turn negligence:

• Obtain dashcam footage (if available)
• Interview witnesses who saw the turn
• Review driver training records for proper turning procedures

8. Blind Spot Collisions (“No-Zone” Accidents)

Trucks have four massive blind spots:

1. Front No-Zone (20 feet ahead)
2. Rear No-Zone (30 feet behind)
3. Left Side No-Zone (extends from the cab backward)
4. Right Side No-Zone (largest blind spot—extends the entire length of the trailer)

Why it matters in Borden County:

• Two-lane highways (US-87, FM 1054) force cars into blind spots when passing.
• Lack of truck mirrors or improperly adjusted mirrors increase risks.

How we prove blind spot negligence:

• Inspect mirror condition and adjustment
• Obtain lane change data from ECM/telematics
• Interview witnesses who saw the truck change lanes

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Borden County 18-Wheeler Accident?

In trucking accidents, multiple parties may share liability. We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your compensation.

Example: If a tire blowout caused your accident, we’d investigate:

• Was the tire defective? (Manufacturer liability)
• Was it properly maintained? (Trucking company liability)
• Was it overloaded? (Cargo owner liability)
• Was the driver properly trained? (Trucking company liability)

Catastrophic Injuries from Borden County Truck Accidents

Due to the massive size and weight of 18-wheelers, crashes often result in life-altering injuries:

If you or a family member suffered any of these injuries in a Borden County truck accident, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll fight for every dollar you deserve.

How Much Is Your Borden County Truck Accident Case Worth?

There’s no “average” settlement for trucking accidents—every case is unique. However, factors that affect your case value include:

Recent Trucking Verdicts & Settlements in Texas

• $730 million (2021) – Landstar Ranger oversize load killed a woman in Texas
• $150 million (2022) – Werner Enterprises settlement for two children killed on I-30
• $37.5 million (2024) – Texas trucking verdict for catastrophic injuries
• $35.5 million (2023) – Family injured in a Texas truck accident
• $20+ million – Multiple verdicts for wrongful death and severe injuries

At Attorney911, we’ve recovered millions for truck accident victims. We’ll fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

What to Do After a Truck Accident in Borden County

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Borden County, follow these steps to protect your rights:

1. Call 911 Immediately

• Report the accident and request police and EMS.
• Texas law requires reporting accidents involving injury, death, or property damage over $1,000.

2. Seek Medical Attention

• Even if you feel fine, get checked by a doctor.
• Adrenaline masks pain—some injuries (TBI, internal bleeding) don’t show symptoms immediately.
• Medical records are critical evidence for your case.

3. Document the Scene

• Take photos/videos of:
  • All vehicles involved (damage, license plates, DOT numbers)
  • Skid marks, debris, road conditions
  • Injuries (bruises, cuts, swelling)
  • The truck’s underride guard, tires, and brakes
  • Street signs, traffic signals, and weather conditions
• Get witness contact information (names, phone numbers, emails).

4. Obtain the Truck Driver’s Information

• Name, CDL number, phone number
• Trucking company name and DOT number (look for it on the truck door)
• Insurance information

5. Do NOT Give a Recorded Statement

• Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company—not you.
• Anything you say can be used against you to minimize your claim.
• Politely decline and refer them to your attorney.

6. Call an 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney Immediately

• Evidence disappears fast—black box data can be overwritten in 30 days.
• We’ll send a spoliation letter to preserve all evidence.
• We’ll handle insurance negotiations so you can focus on recovery.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Borden County Truck Accident Case?

1. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

• Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting trucking companies since 1998.
• We’ve handled cases against Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and other major carriers.
• Federal court admission (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) allows us to handle interstate trucking cases.

2. Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

• Our team includes former insurance defense attorneys who know exactly how adjusters minimize claims.
• We’ve seen every trick in the book—and we know how to counter them.

3. Aggressive Evidence Preservation

• We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to prevent evidence destruction.
• We obtain ECM/black box data, ELD logs, maintenance records, and cell phone records before they’re lost.

4. Proven Multi-Million Dollar Results

• $5+ million – Logging brain injury settlement
• $3.8+ million – Car accident amputation settlement
• $2.5+ million – Truck crash recovery
• Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases

5. Local Knowledge of Borden County

• We know Borden County’s highways (I-10, I-20, US-87, FM 1054).
• We understand local courts, judges, and juries.
• We’ve handled trucking cases in Gail, Snyder, and surrounding areas.

6. No Fee Unless We Win

• Free consultation – No upfront costs.
• Contingency fee – You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
• We advance all case costs – You never receive a bill from us.

7. Fluent Spanish Services (Hablamos Español)

• Many truck drivers and accident victims in Borden County speak Spanish.
• Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.

What Happens After You Hire Us?

When you hire Attorney911, we take immediate action to protect your rights and build your case:

1. Evidence Preservation (First 48 Hours)

• Send spoliation letters to the trucking company, insurer, and all liable parties
• Demand ECM/black box data, ELD logs, dashcam footage, and maintenance records
• Secure physical evidence (truck, failed components, cargo)

2. Thorough Investigation (Days 1-30)

• Obtain police reports and 911 call recordings
• Interview witnesses before memories fade
• Subpoena driver qualification files, maintenance records, and dispatch logs
• Hire accident reconstruction experts to analyze the crash

3. Medical & Financial Support

• Connect you with top Borden County medical providers (even if you don’t have insurance)
• Document all injuries, treatments, and future medical needs
• Calculate lost wages and future earning capacity

4. Aggressive Negotiation & Litigation

• Send a demand letter to the insurance company
• Negotiate for maximum compensation
• File a lawsuit if the insurer refuses a fair settlement
• Prepare for trial (most cases settle, but we’re ready to fight in court)

5. Settlement or Verdict

• 95% of cases settle—we’ll negotiate the highest possible settlement.
• If necessary, we’ll take your case to trial and fight for a jury verdict.

Our goal: Get you the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Borden County Truck Accidents

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

• 2 years from the date of the accident (Texas statute of limitations).
• Wrongful death claims must be filed within 2 years of the death.
• Don’t wait—evidence disappears quickly, and delays hurt your case.

2. What if the truck driver says I caused the accident?

• Texas follows modified comparative negligence—if you’re less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages (reduced by your percentage of fault).
• If you’re 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything.
• We gather evidence (ECM data, witness statements, accident reconstruction) to prove the truck driver’s negligence.

3. What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?

• Never accept the first offer—it’s almost always a lowball amount.
• Insurance companies profit by paying you less than you deserve.
• We’ll evaluate the true value of your case and negotiate for maximum compensation.

4. Can I sue if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

• Yes! Even if the driver is an owner-operator, the trucking company may still be liable for:
  • Negligent hiring (failure to check safety record)
  • Negligent supervision (failure to monitor driver behavior)
  • Negligent maintenance (failure to inspect the truck)

5. What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

• We investigate all liable parties (driver, cargo owner, maintenance company, etc.).
• We pursue multiple insurance policies to ensure you get paid.
• Many trucking companies have umbrella policies that provide additional coverage.

6. How much does it cost to hire an 18-wheeler accident attorney?

• Nothing upfront—we work on contingency.
• You pay no fee unless we win your case.
• Our fee is 33% of the recovery (higher if the case goes to trial).

7. What if I don’t have health insurance?

• We can connect you with doctors who treat on a lien basis—they get paid from your settlement.
• You won’t owe anything for medical treatment until your case resolves.

8. Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

• Yes, if you’re less than 50% at fault.
• Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
• Example: If you’re 20% at fault and your damages are $100,000, you’d recover $80,000.

9. What if the truck driver was under the influence?

• Drug/alcohol violations can lead to punitive damages (extra compensation to punish the trucking company).
• We’ll obtain toxicology reports, cell phone records, and ELD data to prove impairment.

10. What if the trucking company destroyed evidence?

• Spoliation (destruction of evidence) is a serious legal violation.
• Courts can:
  • Instruct the jury to assume the destroyed evidence was unfavorable
  • Impose monetary sanctions
  • Enter default judgment against the trucking company

Borden County Trucking Corridors & High-Risk Areas

Borden County’s location in West Texas puts it at the crossroads of major trucking routes. The following highways and areas see high truck traffic and increased accident risks:

1. I-10 (East-West Corridor)

• Major route connecting El Paso to Houston (and beyond to Louisiana).
• High truck volume from port traffic, oilfield equipment, and cross-country freight.
• Common accident types:
  • Rear-end collisions (brake failures, distracted driving)
  • Jackknife accidents (sudden braking, wet roads)
  • Underride crashes (poor lighting, sudden stops)

2. I-20 (East-West Corridor)

• Connects Midland/Odessa to Dallas/Fort Worth.
• Oilfield trucking dominates this route.
• Common accident types:
  • Fatigue-related crashes (long hauls from Permian Basin)
  • Cargo spills (improperly secured oilfield equipment)
  • Tire blowouts (heavy loads, high temperatures)

3. US-87 (North-South Corridor)

• Runs from San Angelo to Lubbock, passing through Borden County.
• Two-lane highway with high truck traffic (agricultural, oilfield, livestock).
• Common accident types:
  • Head-on collisions (wrong-way driving, fatigue)
  • Blind spot accidents (narrow lanes, limited passing zones)
  • Wildlife collisions (deer, pronghorn)

4. FM 1054 (Rural Roads)

• Connects Gail (county seat) to surrounding areas.
• Narrow, winding roads with limited shoulders.
• Common accident types:
  • Rollovers (steep grades, improperly secured cargo)
  • Farm equipment collisions (slow-moving tractors, combines)
  • Single-vehicle truck crashes (driver fatigue, mechanical failure)

5. Oilfield & Agricultural Trucking Areas

• Permian Basin oilfield traffic increases truck volume.
• Livestock haulers, grain trucks, and heavy equipment create additional risks.
• Common accident types:
  • Overloaded trucks (exceeding weight limits)
  • Hazmat spills (oilfield chemicals, fuel)
  • Fatigued driving (long shifts in remote areas)

If your accident occurred on any of these routes, call us at 1-888-ATTY-911. We know the local risks, road conditions, and trucking patterns in Borden County.

Client Testimonials: Why Borden County Families Trust Attorney911

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client

“One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
— Donald Wilcox, Attorney911 Client

“Ralph reached out personally. Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer.”
— Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client

“Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.”
— Celia Dominguez, Attorney911 Client (Spanish services)

Call Attorney911 Now – 1-888-ATTY-911

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Borden County, time is critical.

✅ Free consultation – No obligation.
✅ No fee unless we win – You pay nothing upfront.
✅ 24/7 availability – We answer calls immediately.
✅ Local Borden County knowledge – We know the roads, courts, and trucking companies.
✅ Insider advantage – Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney.
✅ Multi-million dollar results – We’ve recovered millions for truck accident victims.

Don’t let the trucking company destroy evidence. Don’t let insurance adjusters pressure you into a lowball settlement. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911.

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.