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

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Boydston, Texas, you’re facing one of the most complex and high-stakes legal situations imaginable. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks—up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded—means that collisions often result in catastrophic injuries, life-altering disabilities, or tragic fatalities. Boydston’s location in Donley County puts it squarely in the path of major trucking corridors that serve the Texas Panhandle, making our highways particularly dangerous for passenger vehicles sharing the road with big rigs.

At Attorney911, we understand the unique challenges faced by Boydston residents after trucking accidents. Our team, led by managing partner Ralph Manginello with over 25 years of experience, has recovered millions for truck accident victims across Texas. We know the Boydston area’s trucking routes, the local courts, and most importantly, how to fight the trucking companies that prioritize profits over safety. This comprehensive guide will explain your rights, the legal process, and how we can help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Why Boydston Trucking Accidents Are Different

Boydston sits at the intersection of several critical transportation routes that serve the Texas Panhandle and beyond. The area’s mix of rural highways and growing commercial activity creates unique risks:

Highway 287: This major north-south corridor connects Amarillo to Fort Worth and sees heavy truck traffic, particularly from agricultural and energy sector shipments
Interstate 40 access: While not directly in Boydston, I-40 is easily accessible and serves as a major east-west freight corridor
Local agricultural trucking: Donley County’s farming industry generates significant grain, cattle, and equipment transport
Oil and gas shipments: The nearby Panhandle oil fields create specialized hazmat and equipment trucking
Rural road hazards: Boydston’s rural location means trucks often travel on roads with limited shoulders, poor lighting, and challenging weather conditions

These factors combine to make Boydston’s roads particularly dangerous for passenger vehicles sharing space with large commercial trucks.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Boydston

Trucking accidents in Boydston often result from a combination of factors unique to our area:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

The long, straight stretches of Highway 287 and other Boydston-area roads can lull drivers into complacency or encourage them to push beyond federal limits. FMCSA regulations (49 CFR § 395) limit drivers to:

11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
A maximum 14-hour on-duty window
Mandatory 30-minute breaks after 8 hours of driving
60/70-hour weekly limits with 34-hour restarts

Violations are rampant in the trucking industry, particularly among long-haul drivers passing through Boydston. Our firm has seen cases where drivers falsified their electronic logging devices (ELDs) to conceal hours of service violations. When fatigue leads to accidents, both the driver and the trucking company can be held liable.

Improper Cargo Loading and Securement

Boydston’s agricultural and energy industries create unique cargo securement challenges:

Grain trucks with shifting loads
Livestock trailers with improperly secured animals
Oil field equipment that exceeds weight limits
Hazardous materials that require special handling

Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) require cargo to be secured to withstand:

0.8g deceleration forward
0.5g acceleration rearward
0.5g lateral forces
20% of cargo weight downward

When cargo shifts or spills, it can cause rollovers, jackknives, or create road hazards that lead to multi-vehicle collisions. We’ve handled cases where improperly secured oil field equipment came loose on Highway 287, causing catastrophic accidents.

Brake Failures and Maintenance Neglect

The long downgrades on rural Boydston-area roads put tremendous strain on truck braking systems. Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.48) require:

Proper brake adjustment
Functional anti-lock braking systems (ABS)
Regular maintenance and inspections

We’ve seen cases where trucking companies deferred maintenance to save costs, leading to brake failures on Highway 287’s long stretches. When brakes fail, trucks can’t stop in time to avoid collisions, particularly in areas with limited escape routes.

Distracted Driving

The monotony of Boydston’s rural highways can lead to driver distraction through:

Cell phone use (prohibited by 49 CFR § 392.82)
Dispatch communications
GPS navigation
Eating or drinking while driving
Fatigue-related zoning out

Distracted truck drivers have slower reaction times and are more likely to drift out of their lanes or miss critical road signs and signals.

Speeding and Aggressive Driving

Truck drivers under pressure to meet delivery deadlines often exceed speed limits on Boydston’s highways. Federal regulations (49 CFR § 392.6) prohibit driving at speeds greater than what’s reasonable for conditions. Speeding is particularly dangerous for trucks because:

It increases stopping distances
It makes rollovers more likely on curves
It increases the severity of collisions
It reduces the driver’s ability to react to hazards

We’ve handled cases where speeding trucks couldn’t stop in time for traffic backups on Highway 287, causing devastating rear-end collisions.

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zones”)

Trucks have massive blind spots where passenger vehicles disappear from view:

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

Boydston’s rural highways often lack the wide shoulders that give trucks room to maneuver, making blind spot accidents more likely when trucks change lanes or make turns.

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

When making right turns, trucks often swing wide to the left to avoid curbs and obstacles. This creates a dangerous gap that passenger vehicles may try to enter, only to be crushed when the truck completes its turn. These accidents are particularly common at Boydston’s intersections where trucks are turning onto or off of Highway 287.

Underride Collisions

Underride accidents occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath a truck’s trailer, often shearing off the vehicle’s roof. These are among the most deadly truck accidents:

Rear underride: Vehicle strikes the back of a trailer
Side underride: Vehicle strikes the side of a trailer during lane changes or turns

Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.86) require rear underride guards on most trailers, but there are no federal requirements for side underride guards. We’ve handled cases where missing or defective guards led to catastrophic injuries.

Tire Blowouts

The extreme temperature variations in Boydston—hot summers and cold winters—put additional stress on truck tires. Blowouts can occur due to:

Underinflation
Overloading
Worn tires
Road debris
Manufacturing defects

When a steer tire (front tire) blows out, the driver can lose control completely. Even non-steer tire blowouts can cause debris to strike following vehicles or lead to loss of control.

The Devastating Injuries from Boydston Trucking Accidents

The physics of trucking accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm rather than the exception. The average passenger car weighs about 4,000 pounds, while a fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—that’s 20 times the weight. This massive disparity means that truck accidents often result in:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

TBI occurs when the brain is damaged by sudden trauma, often from striking the inside of the skull during a collision. In Boydston truck accidents, we commonly see:

Mild TBI (Concussion): Confusion, headaches, brief loss of consciousness
Moderate TBI: Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits
Severe TBI: Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment

Symptoms may include:

Headaches and dizziness
Memory loss and confusion
Difficulty concentrating
Mood changes, depression, anxiety
Sleep disturbances
Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
Speech difficulties
Personality changes

The lifetime costs of TBI can range from $85,000 to $3 million or more, depending on severity. Many TBI survivors require lifelong care and supervision.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Spinal cord damage often results in permanent paralysis:

Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
Incomplete injuries: Some nerve function remains
Complete injuries: Total loss of sensation and movement below the injury

The level of injury determines the extent of paralysis:

Cervical (neck) injuries: Affect arms, hands, trunk, and legs; may require ventilator
Thoracic (upper back) injuries: Affect trunk and legs
Lumbar (lower back) injuries: Affect legs and hips

Lifetime care costs for spinal cord injuries range from $1.1 million for low paraplegia to $5 million or more for high quadriplegia.

Amputations

Amputations occur when limbs are severed at the scene or must be surgically removed due to:

Crushing injuries from the accident
Severe burns requiring surgical removal
Infections from open wounds
Vascular damage that prevents healing

Amputees face:

Initial surgery and hospitalization
Prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000 each)
Replacement prosthetics throughout life
Physical and occupational therapy
Psychological counseling
Home and vehicle modifications

Severe Burns

Burns occur in trucking accidents through:

Fuel tank ruptures and fires
Hazardous material spills and ignition
Electrical fires from battery/wiring damage
Friction burns from road contact
Chemical burns from hazmat exposure

Burn severity is classified by degree:

First-degree: Epidermis only (minor, heals without scarring)
Second-degree: Epidermis and dermis (may scar, may need grafting)
Third-degree: Full thickness (requires skin grafts, permanent scarring)
Fourth-degree: Through skin to muscle/bone (multiple surgeries, may require amputation)

Burn survivors often face multiple reconstructive surgeries, chronic pain, and psychological trauma.

Internal Organ Damage

The forces involved in trucking accidents can cause severe internal injuries:

Liver lacerations or ruptures
Spleen damage requiring removal
Kidney damage
Lung contusions or pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
Bowel and intestinal damage

These injuries may not show immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can 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
Medical expenses incurred before death
Pain and suffering experienced by the decedent before death
Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Boydston Trucking Accident?

One of the most important differences between car accidents and trucking accidents is the number of potentially liable parties. In Boydston trucking cases, we investigate and pursue claims against all responsible parties to maximize your recovery.

The Truck Driver

The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable for negligent conduct such as:

Speeding or reckless driving
Distracted driving (cell phone use, dispatch communications, etc.)
Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
Violation of traffic laws
Failure to yield, improper lane changes, running red lights

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

Trucking companies are often the most important defendants because they have the deepest pockets (highest insurance limits) and the most responsibility for safety. They can be held liable through:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

The driver was an employee (not an independent contractor)
The driver was acting within the scope of employment
The driver was performing job duties when the accident occurred

Direct Negligence:

Negligent Hiring: Failed to check the driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
Negligent Training: Inadequate training on safety, cargo securement, hours of service
Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance and compliance with regulations
Negligent Maintenance: Failed to maintain vehicles in safe condition
Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate hours of service regulations

Federal regulations require trucking companies to maintain Driver Qualification Files (49 CFR § 391.51) for every driver, containing:

Employment application
Motor vehicle record
Road test certificate
Medical examiner’s certificate
Annual driving record review
Previous employer inquiries
Drug and alcohol test records

When companies fail to maintain proper files or ignore red flags in a driver’s background, they can be held liable for negligent hiring.

Cargo Owner/Shipper

The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable for:

Providing improper loading instructions
Failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
Requiring overweight loading
Pressuring the carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics

Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo onto trucks may be liable for:

Improper cargo securement (violating 49 CFR § 393.100-136)
Unbalanced load distribution
Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
Not training loaders on securement requirements

Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

Manufacturers can be held liable for defects in:

Design (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement)
Manufacturing (faulty welds, component failures)
Failure to warn of known dangers
Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for:

Defective brakes or brake components
Defective tires causing blowouts
Defective steering mechanisms
Defective lighting components
Defective coupling devices

Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets may be liable for:

Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
Failure to identify critical safety issues
Improper brake adjustments
Using substandard or wrong parts
Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Freight Broker

Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks 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
Selecting the cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may have separate liability for:

Negligent entrustment of the vehicle
Failure to maintain owned equipment
Knowledge of the driver’s unfitness

Government Entity

Federal, state, or local government may be liable in limited circumstances for:

Dangerous road design that contributed to the accident
Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
Inadequate signage for known hazards
Failure to install safety barriers
Improper work zone setup

Special Considerations for Government Liability:

Sovereign immunity limits government liability
Strict notice requirements and short deadlines apply
Must prove actual notice of the dangerous condition in many cases

The Critical 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

In Boydston trucking accident cases, evidence disappears quickly. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act immediately, critical evidence will be lost forever.

Why 48 Hours Matters

Evidence Type	Destruction Risk
ECM/Black Box Data	Overwrites in 30 days or with new driving events
ELD Data	May be retained only 6 months
Dashcam Footage	Often deleted within 7-14 days
Surveillance Video	Business cameras typically overwrite in 7-30 days
Witness Memory	Fades significantly within weeks
Physical Evidence	Vehicle may be repaired, sold, or scrapped
Drug/Alcohol Tests	Must be conducted within specific windows

The Spoliation Letter

A spoliation letter is a formal legal notice sent to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence related to the accident.

Why It Matters:

Puts defendants on legal notice of their preservation obligation
Creates serious consequences if evidence is destroyed
Courts can impose sanctions, adverse inferences, or even default judgment for spoliation
The sooner sent, the more weight it carries

When We Send It:
IMMEDIATELY – within 24-48 hours of being retained. We don’t wait.

What the Spoliation Letter Demands

Electronic Data:

Engine Control Module (ECM) / Electronic Control Unit (ECU) data
Event Data Recorder (EDR) data
Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
GPS and telematics data
Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
Dispatch communications and messaging
Cell phone records and text messages
Qualcomm or fleet management system data

Driver Records:

Complete Driver Qualification File
Employment application and resume
Background check and driving record
Previous employer verification
Medical certification and exam records
Drug and alcohol test results (pre-employment and random)
Training records and certifications
Previous accident and violation history
Performance reviews and disciplinary records

Vehicle Records:

Maintenance and repair records
Inspection reports (pre-trip, post-trip, annual)
Out-of-service orders and repairs
Tire records and replacement history
Brake inspection and adjustment records
Parts purchase and installation records

Company Records:

Hours of service records for 6 months prior
Dispatch logs and trip records
Bills of lading and cargo documentation
Insurance policies
Safety policies and procedures
Training curricula
Hiring and supervision policies

Physical Evidence:

The truck and trailer themselves
Failed or damaged components
Cargo and securement devices
Tire remnants if a blowout was involved

ECM/Black Box Data Explained

Commercial trucks have electronic systems that continuously record operational data—similar to an airplane’s black box but for trucks.

Types of Electronic Recording:

System	What It Records
ECM (Engine Control Module)	Engine performance, speed, throttle, RPM, cruise control, fault codes
EDR (Event Data Recorder)	Pre-crash data triggered by sudden deceleration or airbag deployment
ELD (Electronic Logging Device)	Driver hours, duty status, GPS location, driving time
Telematics	Real-time GPS tracking, speed, route, driver behavior
Dashcam	Video of the road ahead, some record cab interior

Critical Data Points:

Speed Before Crash: Proves speeding or excessive speed for conditions
Brake Application: Shows when and how hard brakes were applied
Throttle Position: Reveals if the driver was accelerating or coasting
Following Distance: Calculated from speed and deceleration data
Hours of Service: Proves fatigue and HOS violations
GPS Location: Confirms route and timing
Fault Codes: May reveal known mechanical issues the driver ignored

Why This Data Wins Cases:
ECM/ELD data is objective and tamper-resistant. It directly contradicts driver claims of “I wasn’t speeding” or “I hit my brakes immediately.” This data has led to multi-million dollar verdicts in trucking cases.

FMCSA Record Retention Requirements

Minimum Retention Periods:

Record Type	Retention Period
Driver Qualification Files	3 years after termination
Hours of Service Records	6 months
Vehicle Inspection Reports	1 year
Maintenance Records	1 year
Accident Register	3 years
Drug Test Records (positive)	5 years
Drug Test Records (negative)	1 year

Why Our Spoliation Letter Extends These:
Once we send a preservation demand and litigation is anticipated, the duty to preserve extends beyond these minimum periods. Destroying evidence after receiving our letter can result in:

Adverse inference instructions (jury told to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable)
Sanctions and monetary penalties
Default judgment in extreme cases
Punitive damages for intentional destruction

Boydston-Specific Trucking Corridors and Accident Hotspots

Boydston’s location in Donley County puts it at the intersection of several critical trucking routes that serve the Texas Panhandle and beyond. Understanding these corridors helps us investigate accidents and identify potential causes.

Highway 287: Boydston’s Main Artery

Highway 287 is the primary north-south route through Boydston, connecting Amarillo to Fort Worth. This highway sees heavy truck traffic from:

Agricultural shipments (grain, cattle, equipment)
Energy sector shipments (oil field equipment, fuel)
General freight moving between major Texas cities
Livestock transport

Common Accident Types on Highway 287:

Rear-end collisions at traffic backups
Lane change accidents during passing maneuvers
Rollovers on curves with improperly secured cargo
Underride collisions at intersections
Brake failures on long downgrades

Dangerous Sections:

The stretch between Boydston and Clarendon, where the highway has limited shoulders and challenging curves
Areas where Highway 287 intersects with county roads, creating complex traffic patterns
Sections with poor lighting that make trucks difficult to see at night

Access to Interstate 40

While I-40 doesn’t run directly through Boydston, it’s easily accessible and serves as a major east-west freight corridor. Many trucks passing through Boydston are either coming from or going to I-40, creating additional traffic on local roads.

Common Accident Types Involving I-40 Traffic:

Fatigue-related accidents from long-haul drivers
Speeding to make up time after exiting I-40
Improper lane changes when merging onto or off of I-40 access roads
Distracted driving from GPS navigation

Local Agricultural Trucking

Donley County’s farming industry generates significant truck traffic:

Grain trucks transporting harvests to elevators
Cattle trucks moving livestock to feedlots and markets
Farm equipment transport
Fertilizer and chemical shipments

Unique Risks:

Oversized loads that create visibility hazards
Slow-moving farm equipment on rural roads
Seasonal peaks that increase truck traffic
Drivers unfamiliar with local road conditions

Oil and Gas Industry Trucking

The nearby Panhandle oil fields create specialized trucking needs:

Oil field equipment transport
Hazardous material shipments (fuel, chemicals)
Water and wastewater hauling
Sand and proppant transport for fracking

Unique Risks:

Hazmat spills and chemical exposure
Overweight loads that stress bridges and roads
Fatigued drivers working long shifts
Improperly secured equipment

Rural Road Hazards

Boydston’s rural location creates unique challenges:

Roads with limited shoulders and no guardrails
Poor lighting that makes trucks difficult to see at night
Unmarked intersections and driveways
Gravel roads that create traction issues
Livestock crossings
Weather-related hazards (ice, snow, high winds)

Proving Negligence in Boydston Trucking Cases

To recover compensation in a Boydston trucking accident case, we must prove that the trucking company or driver was negligent. This requires establishing four key elements:

Duty of Care: The trucking company and driver owed you a duty to operate safely
Breach of Duty: They failed to meet that duty through negligent actions
Causation: Their breach caused the accident and your injuries
Damages: You suffered actual harm as a result

Common Breaches of Duty in Boydston Cases

Violations of FMCSA Regulations:
We routinely find violations of federal trucking regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399) that prove negligence:

Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR § 395): Driving beyond 11-hour limits, no required breaks, falsifying logs
Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR § 391): Hiring unqualified drivers, no medical certification, no CDL
Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR § 396): Brake failures, tire blowouts, lighting deficiencies
Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR § 393): Unsecured loads, improper weight distribution
Drug and Alcohol Violations (49 CFR § 392): Operating under the influence, failed drug tests

Negligent Hiring, Training, and Supervision:
Trucking companies can be held directly liable for:

Hiring drivers with poor safety records
Failing to verify employment history
Inadequate safety training
Failing to monitor driver performance
Pressuring drivers to violate safety regulations

Negligent Maintenance:
When trucking companies defer maintenance to save costs, they create dangerous conditions:

Brake failures from worn components
Tire blowouts from underinflation or worn tread
Lighting failures that make trucks hard to see
Coupling device failures that cause trailer separation

Negligent Loading:
Improperly loaded cargo creates instability and hazards:

Overweight loads that exceed vehicle capacity
Unbalanced loads that increase rollover risk
Inadequately secured cargo that shifts or spills
Hazardous materials not properly contained

Evidence We Use to Prove Negligence

Electronic Data:

ECM/Black Box data showing speed, braking, and throttle position
ELD records proving hours of service violations
GPS data showing route and timing
Dashcam footage showing driver behavior

Driver Records:

Driver Qualification File showing hiring negligence
Driving record showing pattern of violations
Drug and alcohol test results
Training records showing inadequate preparation

Company Records:

Maintenance logs showing deferred repairs
Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
Safety policies showing inadequate procedures
CSA scores showing pattern of violations

Physical Evidence:

The truck and trailer themselves
Failed components (brakes, tires, etc.)
Cargo securement devices
Skid marks and debris patterns

Expert Analysis:

Accident reconstruction experts
Trucking safety experts
Medical experts
Economic experts
Life care planners

The Legal Process for Boydston Trucking Accident Cases

Step 1: Immediate Investigation

The first 48 hours are critical. We:

Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
Obtain police accident reports
Interview witnesses before memories fade
Photograph the accident scene and vehicles
Retain accident reconstruction experts
Subpoena electronic data (ECM, ELD, GPS)

Step 2: Medical Treatment and Documentation

Your health is our top priority. We:

Ensure you receive proper medical care
Document all injuries and treatment
Work with medical experts to establish prognosis
Calculate future medical needs
Coordinate with healthcare providers

Step 3: Liability Investigation

We investigate all potentially liable parties:

The truck driver
The trucking company
Cargo owners and loaders
Maintenance companies
Manufacturers
Freight brokers
Government entities

Step 4: Demand Package

We prepare a comprehensive demand package that includes:

Summary of liability facts
Medical records and bills
Lost wage documentation
Expert reports
Life care plan (for catastrophic injuries)
Settlement demand

Step 5: Negotiation

We negotiate aggressively with insurance companies, leveraging:

Our reputation for taking cases to trial
Our insider knowledge from former insurance defense attorneys
The strength of our evidence
The trucking company’s desire to avoid bad publicity

Step 6: Litigation (If Necessary)

If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we file a lawsuit and:

Conduct discovery (depositions, document requests)
Retain expert witnesses
File motions to strengthen our case
Prepare for trial

Step 7: Trial or Settlement

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready to fight for you in court if necessary.

Boydston-Specific Legal Considerations

Texas Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, you have 2 years from the date of death. However, you should never wait this long to contact an attorney. Evidence disappears quickly, and the sooner we start investigating, the stronger your case will be.

Texas Comparative Negligence Rule

Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 33.001). 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 and your damages are $100,000, you would recover $80,000.

Damage Caps in Texas

Texas has specific rules about damage caps:

No cap on economic damages (medical bills, lost wages, etc.)
No cap on non-economic damages (pain and suffering) in most personal injury cases
Non-economic damages cap of $250,000 in medical malpractice cases (not applicable to trucking accidents)
Punitive damages cap: The greater of (2 × economic damages + non-economic damages up to $750,000) OR $200,000

Local Court Procedures

Boydston trucking accident cases would typically be filed in:

Donley County District Court: For cases with damages exceeding $200,000
Donley County Court at Law: For cases with damages between $200 and $10,000
Justice of the Peace Court: For cases with damages under $10,000

Our firm has experience with all Boydston-area courts and understands local procedures and preferences.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Boydston Trucking Accident Case

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for truck accident victims since 1998. He has:

Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts
Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
Experience in BP explosion litigation against multinational corporations
Deep familiarity with Boydston trucking corridors and accident patterns

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes former insurance defense attorneys who know exactly how trucking insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage in negotiations and litigation.

Aggressive Evidence Preservation

We act immediately to preserve critical evidence before it disappears:

Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
Demand preservation of ECM, ELD, and dashcam data
Subpoena cell phone records
Secure physical evidence before it’s repaired or destroyed

Comprehensive Investigation

We leave no stone unturned in investigating your case:

Obtain and analyze ECM/Black Box data
Review ELD records for hours of service violations
Examine Driver Qualification Files for hiring negligence
Investigate maintenance records for deferred repairs
Analyze cargo securement for violations
Interview witnesses before memories fade

Multi-Million Dollar Results

We have a proven track record of recovering significant compensation for truck accident victims:

$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

4.9-Star Client Satisfaction

With 251+ Google reviews and a 4.9-star average, our clients consistently praise:

Our family-like treatment
Our aggressive pursuit of maximum compensation
Our clear communication
Our willingness to take cases other firms reject

Local Knowledge

We understand Boydston’s unique trucking corridors, local courts, and community values. This local knowledge helps us build stronger cases and connect with juries.

Bilingual Services

Many Boydston-area truck drivers and accident victims speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

Contingency Fee Representation

We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case. This means:

No upfront costs
No hourly fees
No risk to you
We advance all case expenses

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Boydston

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Boydston, follow these steps to protect your health and your legal rights:

1. Call 911 Immediately

Report the accident and request police and medical assistance. Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, get checked out by paramedics.

2. Seek Medical Attention

Go to the hospital or see a doctor as soon as possible. Many injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. Delaying treatment can worsen your injuries and harm your legal case.

3. Document the Scene

If you’re able, take photos and videos of:

All vehicles involved (exterior and interior damage)
The accident scene (road conditions, skid marks, debris)
Your injuries
Traffic signs and signals
Weather conditions
Any visible cargo or securement issues

4. Collect Information

Get the following information from all parties involved:

Truck driver’s name, license number, and contact information
Trucking company name, DOT number, and contact information
Insurance information for all vehicles
Names and contact information for all witnesses
Police officer’s name and badge number

5. Do NOT Give Recorded Statements

Insurance adjusters will call you quickly after the accident. They work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say can and will be used to minimize your claim. Politely decline to give a recorded statement and tell them your attorney will contact them.

6. Contact Attorney911 Immediately

Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 as soon as possible. The sooner we start investigating, the stronger your case will be. We’ll:

Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
Begin gathering critical records
Handle all communications with insurance companies
Ensure you receive proper medical care
Start building your case immediately

Common Questions About Boydston Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after a trucking accident in Boydston?

If you’re able, call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene, collect information, and contact Attorney911 immediately. Do not give recorded statements to insurance companies.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a Boydston trucking accident?

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, you have 2 years from the date of death. However, you should contact an attorney immediately—evidence disappears quickly.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. As long as you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How much is my Boydston trucking accident case worth?

Case values depend on many factors:

Severity of your injuries
Cost of medical treatment (past and future)
Lost wages and earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
Available insurance coverage

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical car insurance policies, allowing for larger recoveries.

Will my case go to trial?

Most trucking accident cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready to fight for you in court if necessary.

How long will my case 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.

What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?

Quick settlement offers are almost always lowball offers designed to pay you far less than your case is worth. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

Can I sue the trucking company even if the driver was an independent contractor?

Yes. Even if the driver was an independent contractor, the trucking company may still be liable for:

Negligent hiring
Negligent training
Negligent supervision
Negligent maintenance
Vicarious liability if they controlled the driver’s work

What if the truck driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol?

Drug and alcohol use is a serious violation of federal trucking regulations (49 CFR § 392.4 and § 392.5). If the driver was impaired, both the driver and the trucking company can be held liable. We’ll obtain drug and alcohol test results and investigate whether the company knew or should have known about the driver’s substance abuse issues.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, their insurance policy should still provide coverage. We’ll identify all available insurance policies and pursue claims against them.

Can I recover compensation if a loved one was killed in a Boydston trucking accident?

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

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

What if the trucking company destroyed evidence?

Destroying evidence after being put on notice of potential litigation is called spoliation. Courts can impose serious penalties for spoliation, including:

Adverse inference instructions (telling the jury to assume the evidence would have been unfavorable)
Monetary sanctions
Default judgment in extreme cases

We send spoliation letters immediately to prevent evidence destruction.

Can I recover compensation for PTSD after a trucking accident?

Yes. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a compensable injury in Texas. Symptoms may include:

Flashbacks and nightmares
Severe anxiety
Depression
Insomnia
Avoidance of driving or riding in vehicles

We work with mental health professionals to document and prove PTSD claims.

What if I don’t have health insurance?

We can help you get the medical care you need through:

Letters of Protection (LOP) to medical providers
Medical liens
Treatment on a lien basis
Referrals to specialists who treat accident victims

Your lack of insurance won’t prevent you from getting the care you need or pursuing your legal claim.

How do I pay for an attorney?

We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict, not from your pocket. We also advance all case expenses, which are reimbursed from the recovery.

What if I was a passenger in the truck?

If you were a passenger in the truck and were injured, you may have claims against:

The truck driver
The trucking company
Other drivers involved in the accident
Manufacturers of defective parts
Maintenance companies

Your status as a passenger doesn’t prevent you from recovering compensation.

Can I recover compensation if I was hit by a truck while walking or biking?

Yes. Pedestrians and cyclists have the same rights as motorists when injured by negligent truck drivers. These cases often involve:

Wide turn accidents
Blind spot collisions
Failure to yield at crosswalks
Distracted or impaired driving

What if the trucking company claims I was in their blind spot?

Blind spot accidents are common but don’t absolve the truck driver of responsibility. Trucks have large blind spots, and drivers must:

Check mirrors before changing lanes
Use turn signals
Be extra cautious in areas where blind spots exist
Avoid driving in other vehicles’ blind spots

We use accident reconstruction and electronic data to prove what the driver could and should have seen.

Can I recover compensation if the truck had a mechanical failure?

Yes. Mechanical failures often result from negligent maintenance. We investigate:

Maintenance records
Inspection reports
Repair histories
Whether the company knew about the defect
Whether the defect caused the accident

What if the trucking company claims I’m exaggerating my injuries?

Insurance companies often accuse accident victims of exaggerating injuries. We counter these claims with:

Medical records and expert testimony
Documentation of your treatment
Proof of how injuries affect your daily life
Objective evidence of your injuries (X-rays, MRIs, etc.)

Can I recover compensation for lost wages if I’m self-employed?

Yes. We work with economic experts to calculate your lost earning capacity, including:

Lost income from missed work
Lost business opportunities
Reduced earning capacity
Loss of goodwill
Lost profits

What if the trucking company is based in another state?

It doesn’t matter where the trucking company is based. If the accident occurred in Texas, we can pursue your claim in Texas courts. Our federal court admission allows us to handle interstate trucking cases nationwide.

Can I recover compensation for my pain and suffering?

Yes. Pain and suffering damages compensate you for:

Physical pain from your injuries
Emotional distress
Loss of enjoyment of life
Disfigurement
Physical impairment

Texas has no cap on pain and suffering damages in most personal injury cases.

What if the trucking company offers to pay my medical bills directly?

Be cautious about accepting direct payments from the trucking company. These payments may come with strings attached, such as:

Releasing your right to sue
Preventing you from getting a full evaluation of your injuries
Being used to argue that your injuries weren’t serious

Consult an attorney before accepting any payments or signing any documents.

Can I recover compensation if I wasn’t wearing a seatbelt?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. Not wearing a seatbelt may reduce your recovery, but it doesn’t prevent you from recovering compensation. The trucking company’s negligence is still the primary cause of your injuries.

What if the trucking company claims I was speeding or driving recklessly?

We investigate these claims thoroughly using:

ECM data showing your speed
Witness statements
Accident reconstruction
Surveillance footage
Cell phone records

Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation under Texas’s comparative negligence rule.

Can I recover compensation for property damage to my vehicle?

Yes. We pursue compensation for:

Vehicle repair costs
Rental car expenses
Diminished value of your vehicle
Personal property damaged in the accident

What if the trucking company’s insurance company denies my claim?

Insurance companies often deny claims initially to see if you’ll accept less. We fight denials by:

Providing additional evidence
Filing appeals
Negotiating aggressively
Taking the case to court if necessary

Can I recover compensation for future medical expenses?

Yes. If your injuries require ongoing or future medical treatment, we work with medical experts to calculate your future medical needs and pursue compensation for:

Future surgeries
Rehabilitation
Medications
Medical equipment
Home modifications
In-home care

What if the trucking company claims their driver wasn’t at fault?

We investigate these claims using:

ECM/Black Box data
ELD records
Witness statements
Accident reconstruction
Surveillance footage
Cell phone records

Our goal is to prove what really happened, not what the trucking company claims.

Can I recover compensation for emotional distress?

Yes. Emotional distress damages compensate you for the psychological impact of the accident, including:

Anxiety
Depression
PTSD
Sleep disturbances
Loss of enjoyment of life

What if the trucking company claims I had pre-existing conditions?

We address pre-existing conditions by:

Obtaining your complete medical history
Working with medical experts to distinguish between pre-existing conditions and accident-related injuries
Using the “eggshell skull” rule—you take the plaintiff as you find them

Can I recover compensation for loss of consortium?

Yes. If your injuries have affected your relationship with your spouse, they may be able to recover compensation for:

Loss of companionship
Loss of affection
Loss of household services
Loss of intimacy

What if the trucking company claims I waited too long to seek treatment?

We counter these claims by:

Documenting your injuries and treatment
Obtaining medical records
Working with medical experts to explain delayed symptoms
Showing that you followed your doctor’s advice

Can I recover punitive damages in a Boydston trucking accident case?

Yes, in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct. Punitive damages punish the trucking company for egregious behavior and deter future misconduct. Examples include:

Knowingly hiring dangerous drivers
Pressuring drivers to violate safety regulations
Falsifying records
Destroying evidence
Ignoring repeated safety violations

What if the trucking company claims their driver was an independent contractor?

Even if the driver was an independent contractor, the trucking company may still be liable for:

Negligent hiring
Negligent training
Negligent supervision
Vicarious liability if they controlled the driver’s work

Can I recover compensation if I was hit by a government truck?

Yes, but these cases have special rules:

Shorter notice periods
Different damage caps
Sovereign immunity considerations

We have experience handling claims against government entities.

What if the trucking company claims I’m responsible for my own injuries?

We investigate these claims thoroughly using:

Evidence from the accident scene
Witness statements
Electronic data
Accident reconstruction
Medical records

Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation under Texas’s comparative negligence rule.

Can I recover compensation for lost earning capacity?

Yes. If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or reduce your earning potential, we work with economic experts to calculate your lost earning capacity and pursue compensation for:

Lost wages
Reduced earning potential
Lost benefits
Lost career opportunities

What if the trucking company claims I’m not really injured?

We counter these claims with:

Medical records and expert testimony
Documentation of your treatment
Proof of how injuries affect your daily life
Objective evidence of your injuries (X-rays, MRIs, etc.)

Can I recover compensation for my pain medication?

Yes. We pursue compensation for all medical expenses related to your injuries, including:

Prescription medications
Over-the-counter medications
Medical devices
Home modifications
In-home care

What if the trucking company offers to settle quickly?

Quick settlement offers are almost always lowball offers designed to pay you far less than your case is worth. We evaluate all settlement offers carefully and negotiate aggressively to maximize your recovery.

Can I recover compensation for my emotional support animal?

If your injuries require an emotional support animal, we can pursue compensation for:

The cost of the animal
Training expenses
Veterinary care
Other related expenses

What if the trucking company claims I was texting while driving?

We investigate these claims using:

Cell phone records
Witness statements
Accident reconstruction
Surveillance footage

Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation under Texas’s comparative negligence rule.

Can I recover compensation for my child’s injuries?

Yes. If your child was injured in a trucking accident, you can pursue compensation for:

Medical expenses
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Loss of consortium
Future medical needs

What if the trucking company claims I was driving under the influence?

We investigate these claims using:

Police reports
Toxicology reports
Witness statements
Accident reconstruction

Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation under Texas’s comparative negligence rule.

Can I recover compensation for my lost vacation time?

Yes. We can pursue compensation for all lost time and opportunities resulting from your injuries, including:

Vacation time
Sick leave
Personal days
Business opportunities

What if the trucking company claims I was driving an unsafe vehicle?

We investigate these claims using:

Vehicle maintenance records
Inspection reports
Expert testimony
Accident reconstruction

Even if your vehicle had issues, the trucking company’s negligence is still the primary cause of the accident.

Can I recover compensation for my lost bonuses?

Yes. We work with economic experts to calculate all lost income and benefits, including:

Lost wages
Lost bonuses
Lost commissions
Lost benefits
Lost career opportunities

What if the trucking company claims I was driving too fast for conditions?

We investigate these claims using:

ECM data showing your speed
Weather reports
Road condition reports
Accident reconstruction
Witness statements

Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation under Texas’s comparative negligence rule.

Can I recover compensation for my lost retirement benefits?

Yes. If your injuries affect your ability to work and contribute to retirement plans, we can pursue compensation for lost retirement benefits.

What if the trucking company claims I was driving distracted?

We investigate these claims using:

Cell phone records
Witness statements
Accident reconstruction
Surveillance footage

Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation under Texas’s comparative negligence rule.

Boydston Trucking Accident Resources

Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers

If you’re injured in a Boydston trucking accident, seek medical attention at:

Clarendon Hospital: 1003 S Sully St, Clarendon, TX 79226 (closest hospital to Boydston)
Donley County Hospital District: 1600 W 2nd St, Clarendon, TX 79226
Northwest Texas Healthcare System: 1501 S Coulter St, Amarillo, TX 79106 (Level III Trauma Center)
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Amarillo: 7211 I-40, Amarillo, TX 79106

Boydston Law Enforcement

For accidents in Boydston, contact:

Donley County Sheriff’s Office: (806) 874-2731
Texas Department of Public Safety – Clarendon: (806) 874-3511

Boydston Legal Resources

Donley County District Court: 300 S Sully St, Clarendon, TX 79226
Donley County Court at Law: 300 S Sully St, Clarendon, TX 79226
Texas Department of Transportation – Childress District: 1000 N Main St, Childress, TX 79201
Texas Department of Motor Vehicles – Amarillo Office: 1200 S Coulter St, Amarillo, TX 79106

Boydston Support Groups

Brain Injury Association of Texas: (800) 392-0040
Texas Spinal Cord Injury Association: (800) 933-7245
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Texas: (877) MADD-HELP
Texas Amputee Support Group Network: (888) 267-5669

Boydston Trucking Safety Resources

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): www.fmcsa.dot.gov
Texas Department of Transportation – Trucking Safety: www.txdot.gov/inside-txdot/division/traffic/safety/trucking.html
Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA): www.cvsa.org
Texas Trucking Association: www.texastrucking.com

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Boydston, Texas, don’t wait to get the help you need. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect their interests—you deserve the same level of representation.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and start building your case.

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

Remember: Evidence disappears quickly in trucking accident cases. The sooner you call, the stronger your case will be. Don’t let the trucking company get away with putting profits over safety. We fight for Boydston families devastated by trucking accidents, and we’re ready to fight for you.

Your fight starts with one call: 1-888-ATTY-911