Tragedy on US-62: Brownfield Man Killed in Deadly Pickup-Truck Collision – What Happened and Who’s Responsible?

The Crash That Changed Everything

It was just before midnight on February 24, 2026, when Rolan Tomlison’s life ended in an instant. The 45-year-old Brownfield resident was driving his 2017 GMC pickup northeast on U.S. Highway 62, about half a mile southwest of County Road 515 in Terry County. What happened next would leave a family shattered and a community searching for answers.

A 2016 Freightliner truck-tractor, towing a semi-trailer and driven by 74-year-old Tommy Hanes of Lubbock, was traveling southwest on the same highway. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Hanes turned into a crossover to turn around and travel back northeast on US-62. That’s when disaster struck. The tractor-trailer stalled across both northeast-bound lanes.

Tomlison’s pickup collided with the front right of the semi-trailer and the right rear of the tractor, becoming wedged underneath. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

This wasn’t just a tragic accident. It was a preventable disaster that raises serious questions about truck safety, driver decision-making, and corporate accountability on Texas highways.

The Anatomy of a Deadly Decision

Let’s break down what we know about this crash – and what it tells us about the dangers lurking on Brownfield’s roads.

The Fatal Maneuver: Why Did the Truck Stall?

The preliminary investigation reveals a sequence of events that should never have happened:

1. The Improper Turn: Tommy Hanes, driving southwest on US-62, turned into a crossover to reverse direction.
2. The Stall: The tractor-trailer became immobilized across both northeast-bound lanes.
3. The Collision: Rolan Tomlison, traveling northeast, struck the stalled truck and became trapped underneath.

This sequence suggests several potential violations of federal trucking regulations:

• 49 CFR § 392.2 – Unsafe Operations: “No person shall drive a commercial motor vehicle… in such a manner as to likely cause an accident.” Stalling across active traffic lanes clearly violates this standard.
• 49 CFR § 392.16 – Use of Seat Belts: While Hanes was wearing his seatbelt, this regulation underscores the importance of safety equipment in preventing injuries.
• 49 CFR § 392.10 – Railroad Grade Crossings: While not a railroad crossing, the principle applies – drivers must ensure they can clear intersections safely.

The Underride Danger: Why This Crash Was So Deadly

The description of Tomlison’s pickup becoming “wedged underneath” the semi-trailer indicates an underride collision – one of the most lethal types of truck crashes.

What is an underride collision?
When a smaller vehicle slides underneath a truck’s trailer, the trailer’s height often shears off the top of the passenger vehicle. This can result in catastrophic head and neck injuries, decapitation, or death for the occupants.

Federal Requirements for Underride Protection:
– 49 CFR § 393.86 – Rear Impact Guards: Trailers manufactured after January 26, 1998 must have rear underride guards that can withstand specific impact forces.
– No Federal Side Underride Requirements: Shockingly, there are no federal requirements for side underride guards, despite their proven lifesaving potential.

The Deadly Gap in Protection:
While the Freightliner was manufactured in 2016 (well after the rear guard requirement), the lack of side underride protection may have contributed to the severity of this crash. Side underride collisions account for approximately 200 deaths annually in the U.S.

“This type of collision is exactly why we’ve been advocating for stronger underride protection laws. When a pickup becomes wedged under a trailer, the results are almost always fatal. The trucking industry knows this – yet comprehensive protection still isn’t required.” – Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner, Attorney911

Who’s Really Responsible?

In trucking accidents, liability rarely falls on just one party. Multiple entities may share responsibility for this tragedy.

1. The Driver: Tommy Hanes

The 74-year-old Lubbock resident was at the controls when the crash occurred. Several factors need investigation:

• Decision-Making: Why did he attempt a U-turn at that location? Were there safer alternatives?
• Training and Experience: Does his age or experience level suggest potential limitations in handling the vehicle?
• Medical Certification: At 74, his medical certification should be scrutinized. FMCSA requires drivers to be medically qualified under 49 CFR § 391.41.
• Hours of Service Compliance: While not injured, his ELD records should show whether he was fatigued at the time of the accident.

2. The Trucking Company: Who Employed Tommy Hanes?

The article doesn’t specify which trucking company employed Hanes or owned the Freightliner. This is critical information that must be uncovered.

Potential Liable Trucking Companies in the Region:
While we don’t know which company was involved in this specific crash, the following carriers operate extensively in the Brownfield/Terry County area:

Why the Trucking Company May Be Liable:
– Respondeat Superior: Employers are responsible for employees’ actions within the scope of employment.
– Negligent Hiring (49 CFR § 391.11): Did they properly vet Hanes’ qualifications, especially given his age?
– Negligent Training: Was he properly trained on safe turning procedures and emergency maneuvers?
– Negligent Supervision: Were his hours monitored to prevent fatigue?
– Vehicle Maintenance: Was the truck properly maintained to prevent stalling?

3. The Truck Manufacturer: Freightliner

The 2016 Freightliner truck-tractor involved in the crash may have design or manufacturing defects that contributed to the accident.

Potential Issues to Investigate:
– Electrical System: Could a malfunction have caused the stall?
– Transmission: Did a transmission issue prevent the truck from clearing the intersection?
– Underride Protection: While rear guards are required, was the design adequate?
– Stability Control: Did the truck have electronic stability control to prevent jackknifing?

Product Liability Claims:
If a defect contributed to the crash, Daimler Trucks North America (Freightliner’s parent company) could be held liable under product liability laws.

4. Maintenance Providers

If the truck was serviced by a third-party maintenance company, they could be liable for:
– Negligent Repairs: Did they properly fix known issues?
– Failure to Identify Problems: Did they miss critical safety issues during inspections?
– Improper Maintenance: Were routine maintenance tasks performed correctly?

5. Cargo Loaders (If Applicable)

While not mentioned in the article, if the trailer was loaded by a third party, they could be liable for:
– Improper Loading: Could shifting cargo have contributed to the stall?
– Overloading: Could excess weight have affected the truck’s maneuverability?

6. Government Entities

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) could share responsibility if:
– Road Design: Was the crossover poorly designed or marked?
– Signage: Were warning signs about truck turns inadequate?
– Maintenance: Were road conditions a contributing factor?

The Legal Landscape: What Rolan Tomlison’s Family Can Do

The sudden loss of a loved one in a trucking accident is devastating. But Texas law provides avenues for justice and compensation.

Wrongful Death Claims in Texas

Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 71.002, a wrongful death claim can be brought when a person’s death is caused by the “wrongful act, neglect, carelessness, unskillfulness, or default” of another.

Who Can File:
– Surviving spouse
– Children (including adult children)
– Parents

Damages Available:
– Economic Damages:
– Lost earning capacity of the deceased
– Lost inheritance
– Funeral and burial expenses
– Medical expenses incurred before death
– Non-Economic Damages:
– Loss of companionship and society
– Mental anguish
– Loss of care, maintenance, support, services, and advice
– Punitive Damages: If gross negligence is proven

Statute of Limitations:
Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for wrongful death claims. This means the family has until February 24, 2028 to file a lawsuit.

Survival Actions

In addition to wrongful death claims, Texas allows survival actions under § 71.021. These compensate for:
– Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death
– Medical expenses incurred before death
– Funeral expenses

Comparative Negligence in Texas

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar rule. This means:
– If the deceased was 50% or less at fault, the family can recover damages reduced by their percentage of fault.
– If the deceased was 51% or more at fault, the family cannot recover anything.

In this case, the preliminary investigation suggests the truck driver’s actions were the primary cause, but this will need thorough examination.

The Investigation: What Evidence Must Be Preserved

In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears quickly. Here’s what must be preserved immediately:

Electronic Data

1. Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Records:
   – Show Hanes’ driving hours leading up to the crash
   – Can prove fatigue violations under 49 CFR § 395
   – Must be preserved before they’re overwritten

2. Engine Control Module (ECM) / Black Box Data:
   – Records speed, braking, throttle position
   – Can show whether Hanes attempted to avoid the collision
   – Typically overwrites within 30 days

3. GPS/Telematics Data:
   – Shows the truck’s exact movements
   – Can prove whether Hanes was speeding or driving erratically

4. Cell Phone Records:
   – Can prove distracted driving under 49 CFR § 392.82

Physical Evidence

1. The Truck and Trailer:
   – Must be preserved for inspection
   – Can reveal mechanical defects or maintenance issues

2. Underride Guard:
   – Must be examined for compliance with 49 CFR § 393.86
   – Can show whether it failed to prevent the underride

3. Tire Condition:
   – Can reveal blowouts or inadequate tread depth
   – Minimum tread depth: 4/32” on steer tires, 2/32” on others (49 CFR § 393.75)

Documentation

1. Driver Qualification File:
   – Employment application
   – Driving record
   – Medical certification
   – Training records
   – Drug/alcohol test results

2. Maintenance Records:
   – Inspection reports
   – Repair orders
   – Parts replacement history

3. Hours of Service Records:
   – Paper logs (if used)
   – ELD records
   – Dispatch records

4. Accident Register:
   – Previous crashes involving the driver or company (49 CFR § 390.15)

Witness Evidence

1. Eyewitness Statements:
   – Other drivers who saw the crash
   – Nearby residents or business owners

2. Dashcam Footage:
   – From other vehicles
   – From nearby businesses

3. 911 Calls:
   – Can reveal what witnesses saw and heard

The Role of Fatigue in Truck Crashes

While the investigation is ongoing, fatigue is a leading suspect in this type of crash.

FMCSA Hours of Service Regulations

49 CFR § 395 establishes strict limits on driving time:

Why These Rules Matter:
– Fatigue is a factor in 13% of all large truck crashes (FMCSA)
– Fatigued driving impairs reaction time as much as alcohol
– Drivers who violate HOS rules are 5 times more likely to be in a crash

The Danger of Nighttime Driving

The crash occurred at 11:50 PM – a high-risk time for fatigue-related accidents.

• Circadian Rhythm: The body’s natural sleep cycle makes drivers more prone to fatigue between 12 AM and 6 AM.
• Reduced Visibility: Nighttime driving increases the risk of missing hazards.
• Fewer Services: Late-night driving often means fewer rest stops and services.

“Nighttime truck crashes are particularly deadly. Drivers are fighting their natural sleep cycles, visibility is reduced, and fatigue impairs judgment. When you add in the potential for improper maneuvers like U-turns, the results can be catastrophic. This is why FMCSA regulations are so strict about driving hours and rest breaks.” – Ralph Manginello

The Underride Epidemic: Why These Crashes Keep Happening

This crash appears to involve an underride collision – one of the most deadly types of truck accidents.

The Underride Problem by the Numbers

Why Federal Regulations Fall Short

1. Rear Guards:
   – Required by 49 CFR § 393.86
   – Must withstand 30 mph impact
   – But: Many guards fail at higher speeds or offset impacts

2. Side Guards:
   – No federal requirement in the U.S.
   – Required in Europe, Japan, and Canada
   – Could prevent hundreds of deaths annually

3. Front Underride Guards:
   – No federal requirement
   – Could prevent deaths in head-on collisions

The Push for Stronger Underride Protection

The Stop Underrides Act has been introduced in Congress multiple times but has not passed. It would:
– Strengthen rear guard requirements
– Require side underride guards
– Establish a front underride guard standard

“It’s outrageous that we know how to prevent these deaths, yet the trucking industry continues to fight stronger regulations. Every year that passes without action means hundreds more families will experience the same tragedy as Rolan Tomlison’s loved ones.” – Ralph Manginello

The Age Factor: Is 74 Too Old to Drive a Big Rig?

Tommy Hanes was 74 years old at the time of the crash. This raises important questions about age and commercial driving.

FMCSA Medical Certification Requirements

49 CFR § 391.41 requires drivers to be medically qualified. Key requirements:
– No loss of foot, leg, hand, or arm
– No history of epilepsy or seizures
– No mental, nervous, or psychiatric disorders that interfere with safe driving
– No current clinical diagnosis of alcoholism
– Vision of at least 20/40 in each eye (with or without correction)
– Adequate hearing

Medical Certification Process:
– Drivers must pass a physical exam every 2 years
– Examiners must be listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners
– Drivers receive a Medical Examiner’s Certificate valid for up to 2 years

The Age Debate in Trucking

Arguments for Age Limits:
– Reaction time slows with age
– Vision and hearing decline
– Increased risk of medical emergencies
– Cognitive decline can affect decision-making

Arguments Against Age Limits:
– Experience can compensate for physical decline
– Many older drivers are safer than younger ones
– Age discrimination concerns
– Driver shortage makes it difficult to impose limits

Current Regulations:
– No maximum age limit for commercial drivers
– Must pass medical certification regardless of age
– Some companies impose their own age limits

The Data on Older Truck Drivers:
– Drivers over 65 have higher crash rates than middle-aged drivers
– Drivers over 70 have twice the fatal crash rate of drivers 35-54
– Older drivers are more likely to be at fault in crashes

“While age alone shouldn’t disqualify someone from driving, the combination of advanced age and the physical demands of operating an 80,000-pound vehicle is concerning. At 74, drivers should be subject to more frequent medical evaluations and performance testing. The current system relies too much on self-reporting and not enough on objective measures of fitness to drive.” – Ralph Manginello

What Brownfield Drivers Need to Know

This tragedy didn’t happen in a major city – it happened on US-62 in Terry County, a route familiar to Brownfield residents. The same dangers exist on our local roads.

High-Risk Trucking Corridors in the Brownfield Area

How to Drive Safely Around Big Trucks

1. Avoid the “No-Zones”:
   – Front No-Zone: 20 feet in front of the cab
   – Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
   – Side No-Zones: Extend along the entire length of the truck (right side is larger)

2. Never Cut Off a Truck:
   – Trucks need 40% more distance to stop than cars
   – If you must merge in front, leave plenty of space

3. Pass Safely:
   – Always pass on the left
   – Don’t linger in blind spots
   – Make sure you can see the truck’s headlights in your rearview mirror before merging back

4. Be Extra Cautious at Intersections:
   – Trucks make wide right turns – never try to squeeze by
   – If a truck is turning, wait until it completes the maneuver

5. Watch for Turning Trucks:
   – Trucks often swing wide before turning right
   – Never assume a truck is going straight if it’s signaling

6. Be Visible:
   – If you can’t see the truck’s mirrors, the driver can’t see you
   – Use your headlights, especially in low visibility conditions

7. Give Trucks Space:
   – Maintain at least 4 seconds of following distance
   – Increase distance in bad weather or at night

8. Never Drive Alongside a Truck:
   – If the truck swerves or loses control, you could be crushed
   – Either pass quickly or drop back

What to Do If You’re in a Truck Crash

1. Call 911 Immediately:
   – Report the accident and request medical assistance
   – Specify that a commercial truck is involved

2. Seek Medical Attention:
   – Even if you feel fine, get checked out
   – Adrenaline can mask serious injuries

3. Document the Scene:
   – Take photos of all vehicles, damage, and road conditions
   – Get the truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company name
   – Photograph any skid marks or debris

4. Get Witness Information:
   – Names and contact information for all witnesses
   – Ask what they saw

5. Don’t Admit Fault:
   – Don’t apologize or say “I’m sorry”
   – Stick to the facts when talking to police

6. Preserve Evidence:
   – Don’t wash the clothes you were wearing
   – Don’t repair your vehicle until it’s been inspected

7. Contact an Attorney Immediately:
   – Critical evidence can disappear within hours
   – A trucking accident attorney can send preservation letters to protect evidence

“If you’re in a truck crash, time is not on your side. Black box data can be overwritten, dashcam footage can be deleted, and witnesses’ memories fade. The trucking company’s rapid response team is already working to protect their interests – you need someone protecting yours. Call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 so we can start preserving evidence and building your case.” – Ralph Manginello

The Legal Process: What Happens Next?

For Rolan Tomlison’s family, the legal process is just beginning. Here’s what they can expect:

1. The Investigation Phase

• Evidence Preservation: Attorney sends spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties
• Accident Reconstruction: Experts analyze the crash dynamics
• Regulatory Review: FMCSA records are obtained for the carrier and driver
• Medical Records: Documentation of the deceased’s injuries
• Witness Interviews: Statements from anyone who saw the crash

2. Identifying All Liable Parties

As discussed earlier, multiple parties may share responsibility:
– The truck driver
– The trucking company
– The truck manufacturer
– Maintenance providers
– Cargo loaders (if applicable)
– Government entities

3. Filing the Lawsuit

• Wrongful Death Claim: Filed by surviving family members
• Survival Action: Filed by the estate for pre-death damages
• Venue Selection: Determining the best court to file in
• Service of Process: Notifying all defendants

4. Discovery Phase

• Document Requests: Demanding records from all defendants
• Depositions: Sworn testimony from the truck driver, company representatives, witnesses
• Expert Reports: Accident reconstruction, medical experts, economic experts
• Insurance Disclosures: Identifying all available insurance coverage

5. Settlement Negotiations

• Demand Letters: Outlining the case and settlement demands
• Mediation: Neutral third party facilitates settlement discussions
• Negotiations: Back-and-forth with insurance companies

6. Trial (If Necessary)

• Jury Selection: Choosing impartial jurors
• Opening Statements: Presenting the case to the jury
• Witness Testimony: Including experts and eyewitnesses
• Closing Arguments: Summarizing the evidence
• Verdict: Jury decides liability and damages

7. Post-Trial

• Appeals: Either side may appeal the verdict
• Collection: Ensuring the judgment is paid
• Distribution: Distributing funds to the family

Landmark Trucking Verdicts: What This Case Could Be Worth

While every case is unique, recent trucking verdicts provide insight into potential compensation:

Factors That Could Increase This Case’s Value:
– Underride Collision: These cases typically result in higher verdicts due to the catastrophic nature of injuries
– Potential Regulatory Violations: If HOS violations or maintenance issues are proven
– Corporate Negligence: If the trucking company has a history of safety violations
– Punitive Damages: If gross negligence or willful misconduct is proven

Factors That Could Decrease This Case’s Value:
– Comparative Negligence: If Rolan Tomlison was found partially at fault
– Limited Insurance Coverage: If the trucking company has minimal insurance
– Lack of Clear Liability: If the cause of the stall cannot be determined

“Trucking cases with clear liability and catastrophic injuries can result in substantial verdicts. When you have an underride collision that results in a fatality, combined with potential regulatory violations and corporate negligence, the value can climb into the millions. But it’s not just about the money – it’s about holding these companies accountable and preventing future tragedies.” – Ralph Manginello

The Bigger Picture: Why These Crashes Keep Happening

This crash is not an isolated incident. It’s part of a larger pattern of preventable truck crashes on Texas highways.

The Trucking Safety Crisis

Common Causes of Truck Crashes

1. Driver Fatigue (31% of fatal crashes)
   – Violations of 49 CFR § 395 (Hours of Service)
   – Pressure from carriers to meet deadlines

2. Speeding (29% of fatal crashes)
   – Violations of 49 CFR § 392.6 (speed limits)
   – Pressure to make deliveries on time

3. Distracted Driving (10% of fatal crashes)
   – Violations of 49 CFR § 392.82 (mobile phone use)
   – Dispatch communications, GPS devices

4. Impaired Driving (3% of fatal crashes)
   – Violations of 49 CFR § 392.4 (drugs) and § 392.5 (alcohol)
   – Prescription drug use, illegal substances

5. Improper Maintenance (29% of trucks inspected have violations)
   – Violations of 49 CFR § 396 (inspection and maintenance)
   – Brake failures, tire blowouts, lighting issues

6. Improper Loading (4% of fatal crashes)
   – Violations of 49 CFR § 393.100-136 (cargo securement)
   – Shifting loads, overloading, inadequate tiedowns

The Corporate Culture Problem

Many trucking companies prioritize profits over safety:

• Pressure to Meet Deadlines: Drivers are often pushed to violate HOS rules
• Inadequate Training: Many drivers receive minimal safety training
• Poor Maintenance: Companies defer repairs to save money
• Negligent Hiring: Background checks are often superficial
• Incentive Programs: Some companies reward drivers for fast deliveries

“The trucking industry has a culture problem. Too many companies view safety regulations as suggestions rather than requirements. They cut corners on maintenance, push drivers to violate hours of service rules, and hire unqualified drivers. Until this culture changes, we’ll continue to see preventable tragedies like the one that took Rolan Tomlison’s life.” – Ralph Manginello

What Needs to Change

This crash should be a wake-up call for policymakers, regulators, and the trucking industry. Here’s what needs to happen:

1. Stronger Underride Protection

• Mandate Side Underride Guards: Require side guards on all new trailers
• Strengthen Rear Guard Standards: Current standards are inadequate
• Establish Front Underride Standards: Protect against head-on collisions

2. Stricter Driver Screening

• Age Limits for Commercial Drivers: Consider maximum age limits or more frequent testing for older drivers
• Stricter Medical Certification: More frequent and thorough medical exams
• Cognitive Testing: Evaluate drivers’ decision-making abilities
• Performance Testing: Regular skills assessments for all drivers

3. Better Enforcement of Existing Regulations

• Increased Roadside Inspections: More frequent checks for HOS compliance and vehicle condition
• Stricter Penalties for Violations: Higher fines and more suspensions for repeat offenders
• Electronic Logging Device Audits: Ensure ELDs are being used properly

4. Corporate Accountability

• Higher Insurance Requirements: Current minimums are inadequate for catastrophic crashes
• Stricter Safety Ratings: Companies with poor safety records should face consequences
• Criminal Penalties for Gross Negligence: Executives should face jail time for willful safety violations

5. Infrastructure Improvements

• Better Truck Parking: Lack of parking forces drivers to violate HOS rules
• Safer Highway Design: More truck-only lanes and better signage
• Improved Rest Areas: More facilities for drivers to take required breaks

How Attorney911 Can Help

If you’ve lost a loved one in a trucking accident, or if you’ve been seriously injured, you need an attorney who understands the complexities of these cases.

Why Choose Attorney911?

1. 25+ Years of Experience:
   – Ralph Manginello has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998
   – Our team has handled cases against major carriers like Werner, Swift, and J.B. Hunt

2. Insurance Defense Background:
   – Our associate attorney Lupe Peña worked for a national insurance defense firm
   – We know exactly how insurance companies try to minimize claims

3. Federal Court Experience:
   – Admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
   – Experience handling complex federal trucking cases

4. 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. Immediate Evidence Preservation:
   – We send spoliation letters within hours to preserve critical evidence
   – Our rapid response team works to secure black box data, ELD records, and maintenance logs

6. Comprehensive Investigation:
   – Accident reconstruction experts
   – FMCSA regulation specialists
   – Medical and economic experts

7. Contingency Fee Representation:
   – No fee unless we win your case
   – We advance all costs of litigation
   – You pay nothing upfront

Our Approach to Trucking Cases

1. Immediate Action:
   – Send preservation letters to all potentially liable parties
   – Secure the truck and trailer for inspection
   – Obtain black box and ELD data before it’s overwritten

2. Thorough Investigation:
   – Review FMCSA records for the carrier and driver
   – Analyze maintenance and inspection records
   – Examine driver qualification files for negligent hiring
   – Investigate cargo loading and securement

3. Expert Analysis:
   – Accident reconstruction to determine crash dynamics
   – Medical experts to document injuries
   – Economic experts to calculate damages
   – FMCSA experts to identify regulatory violations

4. Aggressive Negotiation:
   – Demand full compensation from all liable parties
   – Negotiate with insurance companies from a position of strength
   – Prepare every case as if it’s going to trial

5. Trial-Ready Representation:
   – We’re not afraid to take cases to court
   – Insurance companies know we’ll fight for maximum compensation
   – Our trial experience leads to better settlements

“When you’re up against a trucking company, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a fighter. We’ve spent decades holding these companies accountable, and we know how to win. If you’ve been hurt in a trucking accident, call us at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.” – Ralph Manginello

What to Do If You’ve Been in a Trucking Accident

If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident, follow these steps:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

• Go to the emergency room or urgent care
• Follow up with your primary care physician
• Document all injuries and treatment

2. Preserve Evidence

• Take photos of the scene, vehicles, and injuries
• Get contact information for all witnesses
• Don’t wash the clothes you were wearing
• Don’t repair your vehicle until it’s been inspected

3. Don’t Talk to Insurance Adjusters

• The trucking company’s insurance is not on your side
• Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim
• Refer all communications to your attorney

4. Contact an Attorney Immediately

• Critical evidence can disappear within hours
• The sooner we start investigating, the stronger your case will be
• We can send preservation letters to protect evidence

5. Follow Your Doctor’s Orders

• Attend all follow-up appointments
• Follow treatment recommendations
• Document how your injuries affect your daily life

6. Keep a Journal

• Record your pain levels and symptoms
• Document how your injuries impact your daily activities
• Keep track of medical appointments and expenses

Frequently Asked Questions About Trucking Accidents

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

A: In Texas, you generally have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit. However, it’s crucial to act quickly – evidence disappears and witnesses’ memories fade. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to preserve your rights.

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

A: Even if the driver was an independent contractor, both the driver and the trucking company may be liable. We investigate the relationship between the driver and company to determine all responsible parties.

Q: How much is my trucking accident case worth?

A: Every case is unique. Factors that affect case value include:
– Severity of injuries
– Medical expenses (past and future)
– Lost wages and earning capacity
– Pain and suffering
– Degree of defendant’s negligence
– Available insurance coverage

Trucking cases often have higher values than typical car accidents because:
– Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits
– Injuries are often more severe
– Multiple parties may share liability

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

A: Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system. As long as you were 50% or less at fault, you can still recover damages. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Q: How long will my case take to resolve?

A: 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 compensation.

Q: Will my case go to trial?

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

Q: What if the trucking company offers me a settlement?

A: Never accept a settlement without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies often make lowball offers soon after an accident, before the full extent of injuries is known. Once you accept a settlement, you waive your right to additional compensation.

Q: Can I afford an attorney?

A: Yes. We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of litigation, and our fee comes from the settlement or verdict.

Q: What if the trucking company is based in another state?

A: We can handle cases against out-of-state trucking companies. Many of these companies operate in Texas and are subject to Texas courts.

Q: What if the truck driver was uninsured?

A: Even if the truck driver was uninsured, there may be other sources of compensation:
– The trucking company’s insurance
– Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
– Other liable parties (manufacturer, maintenance company, etc.)

The Bottom Line: Justice for Rolan Tomlison and His Family

The crash that took Rolan Tomlison’s life was preventable. Whether it was driver error, mechanical failure, regulatory violations, or corporate negligence, someone must be held accountable.

For his family, justice means:
– Holding all responsible parties accountable
– Preventing similar tragedies from happening to others
– Ensuring they’re compensated for their loss

For the trucking industry, this crash should be a wake-up call:
– Safety must come before profits
– Regulations must be followed, not ignored
– Lives are more important than deadlines

For Brownfield and Terry County, this tragedy is a reminder:
– Our roads are shared with massive, potentially deadly vehicles
– We must all drive defensively around trucks
– When crashes happen, victims need experienced legal representation

“This crash didn’t have to happen. When a truck stalls across active traffic lanes at night, the results are almost always catastrophic. The question now is whether the trucking industry will learn from this tragedy – or whether they’ll continue to prioritize profits over safety. For Rolan Tomlison’s family, we’ll fight to ensure they get the justice and compensation they deserve.” – Ralph Manginello

What You Can Do Next

If you’ve been affected by a trucking accident – whether as a victim, a family member, or simply as someone who wants to make our roads safer – here’s what you can do:

For Trucking Accident Victims and Families:

1. Call Attorney911 Immediately:
   – 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
   – We answer 24/7 and can start preserving evidence immediately

2. Schedule a Free Consultation:
   – We’ll evaluate your case at no cost
   – Explain your legal options
   – Answer all your questions

3. Let Us Handle the Legal Battle:
   – We’ll deal with the trucking company and their insurers
   – You focus on healing and your family

For Concerned Citizens:

1. Drive Defensively Around Trucks:
   – Avoid their blind spots
   – Never cut off a truck
   – Be extra cautious at intersections

2. Report Unsafe Trucks:
   – If you see a truck with unsafe equipment, call 1-800-424-9393 to report it to the FMCSA

3. Support Stronger Safety Regulations:
   – Contact your representatives to support:

   • Stronger underride protection laws
   • Stricter driver screening
   • Better enforcement of existing regulations

4. Share This Information:
   – Educate others about truck safety
   – Help prevent future tragedies

For the Trucking Industry:

1. Prioritize Safety Over Profits:
   – Follow all FMCSA regulations
   – Don’t pressure drivers to violate HOS rules
   – Invest in proper maintenance and training

2. Implement Stronger Safety Measures:
   – Install side underride guards
   – Use advanced safety technology
   – Implement fatigue monitoring systems

3. Hold Your Peers Accountable:
   – Report unsafe carriers to the FMCSA
   – Don’t work with companies that cut corners on safety

Final Thoughts: A Call to Action

The crash that killed Rolan Tomlison was more than a tragic accident – it was a system failure. A system that prioritizes profits over safety, that allows dangerous maneuvers on our highways, that fails to protect vulnerable road users from preventable harm.

But this system can change. With stronger regulations, better enforcement, corporate accountability, and experienced legal representation for victims, we can make our roads safer.

For Rolan Tomlison’s family, justice means holding all responsible parties accountable. It means ensuring they’re compensated for their loss. It means preventing similar tragedies from happening to other families.

If you’ve been affected by a trucking accident, you don’t have to face this battle alone. Attorney911 is here to fight for you.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7, and we work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.

“When you’re up against a trucking company, you need a fighter in your corner. With 25 years of experience, a former insurance defense attorney on our team, and a track record of multi-million dollar verdicts, we have what it takes to win. If you’ve been hurt in a trucking accident, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.” – Ralph Manginello

If you’ve been hurt in a trucking accident in Brownfield, Terry County, or anywhere in Texas, call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re here to fight for you.

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

Remember: Evidence disappears fast. The trucking company’s team is already working to protect their interests. You need someone protecting yours. Call us today.