18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Amherst, Texas

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident on the highways around Amherst, Texas, you need experienced legal representation that understands the unique challenges of trucking cases in our region. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for victims of catastrophic truck crashes across Texas for over 25 years, and we’re ready to put our expertise to work for you.

Why Amherst Trucking Accidents Are Different

Amherst sits at a critical juncture in the Texas trucking network. Our location near major agricultural operations and the intersection of important freight routes means we see more than our share of commercial vehicle traffic. The trucking corridors serving Amherst present unique risks:

• Highway 84 carries heavy agricultural freight from the surrounding farmlands
• Highway 70 connects to major distribution centers in the region
• Interstate 27 (just east of Amherst) is a major north-south corridor for commercial traffic
• US Highway 385 handles significant truck traffic moving through West Texas

These roads see a mix of local delivery trucks, long-haul semis, and agricultural vehicles – creating dangerous conditions when trucking companies cut corners on safety.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents

When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. Amherst families have suffered:

• Traumatic brain injuries from high-impact collisions
• Spinal cord damage leading to paralysis
• Amputations from crushing injuries
• Severe burns from fuel tank ruptures
• Wrongful death of loved ones

The physics are simple: an 18-wheeler is 20-25 times heavier than your car. At highway speeds, this creates forces that passenger vehicles simply aren’t designed to withstand.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Amherst

Our experience handling Amherst trucking cases has revealed several recurring causes:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Truck drivers in our region often face pressure to meet tight deadlines. Many violate federal hours of service regulations:

• Driving more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• Driving beyond the 14th consecutive hour on duty
• Failing to take required 30-minute breaks
• Exceeding 60/70-hour weekly limits without proper restarts

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 395.3 – Hours of Service of Drivers

These violations create dangerous fatigue that slows reaction times and impairs judgment. We’ve seen cases where drivers fell asleep at the wheel after being on the road for 16+ hours.

Improper Maintenance and Brake Failures

Amherst’s location means trucks travel long distances between service points. Many companies defer maintenance to save costs:

• Worn brake pads and shoes
• Improperly adjusted brakes
• Leaking air brake systems
• Defective brake components
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 396.3 – Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

Brake failures are particularly dangerous on the rolling terrain around Amherst, where trucks must navigate elevation changes that put extra stress on braking systems.

Cargo Securement Failures

The agricultural products moving through our region create unique cargo securement challenges:

• Improperly secured hay bales
• Unbalanced grain loads
• Shifting livestock
• Inadequate tiedowns for farm equipment
• Overloaded trailers exceeding weight ratings

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 393.100 – Protection Against Shifting and Falling Cargo

When cargo shifts during transit, it can cause rollovers or spill onto roadways, creating hazards for other vehicles.

Distracted and Impaired Driving

Despite strict regulations, we continue to see cases involving:

• Cell phone use and texting while driving
• GPS and dispatch system distractions
• Prescription drug impairment
• Alcohol use
• Illegal drug use

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 392.82 – Using a Handheld Mobile Telephone

The long, straight stretches of highway around Amherst can lull drivers into complacency, making distractions even more dangerous.

Why You Need an Amherst Trucking Accident Attorney

Trucking cases are fundamentally different from car accident cases. The trucking industry has:

• Rapid-response legal teams that arrive at accident scenes before the ambulance
• Millions in insurance coverage – but adjusters trained to minimize claims
• Complex corporate structures designed to limit liability
• Federal regulations that must be proven to establish negligence

At Attorney911, we have:

✅ 25+ years of experience fighting trucking companies in Texas
✅ Former insurance defense attorneys who know their tactics
✅ Federal court admission to handle interstate trucking cases
✅ Multi-million dollar results for trucking accident victims
✅ Spanish-language services through Attorney Lupe Peña

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

The Evidence That Wins Trucking Cases

In Amherst trucking accident cases, evidence disappears fast. We act immediately to preserve:

Electronic Data That Proves Negligence

• ECM/Black Box Data: Shows speed, braking, and throttle position before impact
• ELD Records: Proves hours of service violations and fatigue
• GPS Tracking: Confirms route and timing
• Cell Phone Records: Documents distracted driving
• Dashcam Footage: Captures driver behavior

This data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve it.

Driver and Company Records

• Driver Qualification Files: Prove negligent hiring
• Maintenance Records: Show deferred repairs
• Inspection Reports: Document known defects
• Drug/Alcohol Tests: Prove impairment
• Dispatch Records: Reveal schedule pressure

Physical Evidence

• The truck and trailer themselves
• Failed components (brakes, tires, etc.)
• Cargo and securement devices
• Accident scene documentation

All Parties We Hold Accountable

In Amherst trucking cases, multiple parties may share responsibility:

• Truck Driver: For negligent operation
• Trucking Company: For negligent hiring, training, and supervision
• Cargo Owner: For improper loading instructions
• Loading Company: For improper securement
• Truck Manufacturer: For defective components
• Parts Manufacturer: For faulty parts
• Maintenance Company: For negligent repairs
• Freight Broker: For negligent carrier selection
• Government Entity: For dangerous road conditions

We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents We Handle in Amherst

The trucking corridors around Amherst see several types of catastrophic crashes:

Jackknife Accidents

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

• Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
• Speeding on curves
• Empty trailers (more prone to swing)
• Brake system failures

Rollover Accidents

When trucks tip onto their sides, often causing cargo spills. Common causes:

• Speeding on highway ramps
• Improperly secured cargo
• Liquid cargo “slosh” shifting center of gravity
• Overcorrection after tire blowouts

Underride Collisions

When vehicles slide underneath trailers, often shearing off roofs. These are among the most deadly accidents. Common causes:

• Missing or inadequate underride guards
• Sudden truck stops
• Poor visibility at night
• Wide right turns cutting off traffic

Rear-End Collisions

When trucks fail to stop in time and crush smaller vehicles. Common causes:

• Following too closely
• Driver distraction
• Brake failures
• Driver fatigue

Wide Turn Accidents

When trucks swing wide before turning right, creating gaps that other vehicles enter. Common causes:

• Failure to signal properly
• Inadequate mirror checks
• Improper turn technique
• Poor intersection design

Blind Spot Accidents

When trucks change lanes without seeing vehicles in their “No-Zones.” The right side blind spot is particularly dangerous.

Tire Blowout Accidents

When tire failures cause loss of control. Common causes:

• Underinflated tires
• Overloaded vehicles
• Worn or aging tires
• Road debris punctures

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Amherst Trucking Cases

The forces involved in trucking accidents often cause life-altering injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

From mild concussions to severe brain damage requiring lifelong care. Symptoms may include:

• Memory loss and confusion
• Mood changes and personality shifts
• Cognitive impairment
• Sensory deficits
• Sleep disturbances

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

From partial paralysis to complete quadriplegia. The level of injury determines:

• Mobility limitations
• Need for assistive devices
• Requirement for 24/7 care
• Loss of bodily functions

Amputations

From traumatic amputation at the scene to surgical amputation later. These injuries require:

• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000+ each)
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Psychological counseling
• Home modifications

Severe Burns

From fuel fires and chemical spills. Burn injuries often require:

• Multiple reconstructive surgeries
• Skin grafts
• Pain management
• Long-term rehabilitation

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents claim lives, families may recover:

• Lost future income
• Loss of companionship
• Funeral expenses
• Mental anguish
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

What Your Amherst Trucking Case Might Be Worth

While every case is unique, our experience with Texas trucking cases shows these typical ranges:

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

The Insurance Battle You’re Facing

Trucking companies and their insurers have one goal: pay you as little as possible. Their tactics include:

• Quick lowball settlement offers before you know the full extent of your injuries
• Denying or minimizing injuries with “independent” medical exams
• Blaming you for the accident (comparative fault)
• Delaying the claims process hoping you’ll give up
• Using recorded statements against you
• Claiming pre-existing conditions made your injuries worse
• Sending surveillance investigators to follow you
• Drowning you in paperwork to wear you down

Our team includes former insurance defense attorneys who know these tactics from the inside. We counter every move they make.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Amherst

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in or around Amherst:

1. Call 911 and report the accident
2. Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor
3. Document the scene with photos and video if possible
4. Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
5. Collect witness contact information
6. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
7. Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911

“Evidence in Amherst trucking accident cases disappears quickly. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Trucking companies in Amherst and nationwide hire rapid-response teams to protect their interests. You need an attorney who moves just as fast.”

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Amherst Trucking Case

1. We’re Amherst Trucking Accident Specialists

We understand the unique challenges of trucking cases in our region. We know:

• The dangerous intersections and highway stretches around Amherst
• The agricultural trucking patterns that create unique risks
• The local courts and judges who handle these cases
• The regional trucking companies that operate in our area

2. Our Team Includes a Former Insurance Defense Attorney

Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows:

• How insurance companies evaluate claims
• What makes them settle for maximum value
• How they train adjusters to minimize claims
• The software they use to calculate settlements
• Their strategies for denying claims

This insider knowledge gives our clients a significant advantage.

3. We Have a Proven Track Record of Results

Our firm has recovered $50+ million for injury victims, including:

• $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
• $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement
• $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
• $2+ Million – Maritime back injury settlement
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

4. We Offer Spanish-Language Services

Amherst has a significant Hispanic population, and many truck drivers in our region are Spanish-speaking. Our team includes fluent Spanish speakers, including Attorney Lupe Peña and staff member Zulema.

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

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

5. We’re Available 24/7 for Amherst Trucking Emergencies

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. We’re available around the clock to:

• Send preservation letters to trucking companies
• Dispatch accident reconstruction experts
• Begin gathering evidence immediately
• Answer your questions and address your concerns

The Amherst Trucking Accident Case Process

When you choose Attorney911, here’s what to expect:

1. Free Consultation

We’ll meet with you (in person or by phone) to discuss your case at no cost. There’s no obligation – just honest answers about your legal options.

2. Immediate Evidence Preservation

Within 24-48 hours, we’ll:

• Send spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties
• Demand preservation of ECM, ELD, and other electronic data
• Begin gathering physical evidence
• Interview witnesses while memories are fresh

3. Comprehensive Investigation

We’ll obtain and analyze:

• Police accident reports
• ECM/Black box data
• ELD records
• Driver Qualification Files
• Maintenance and inspection records
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Cell phone records
• GPS and telematics data
• Dashcam footage
• Cargo and loading records

4. Medical Care Coordination

We’ll help you:

• Get prompt medical treatment
• Document all injuries and treatment
• Understand your prognosis
• Coordinate with specialists
• Track all medical expenses

5. Demand Package Preparation

We’ll calculate all your damages:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Property damage
• Other out-of-pocket expenses

6. Settlement Negotiations

We’ll:

• Present a comprehensive demand to the insurance company
• Counter their lowball offers with evidence
• Negotiate aggressively for maximum compensation
• Prepare for trial if they refuse to offer a fair settlement

7. Litigation (If Necessary)

If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’ll:

• File a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires
• Conduct aggressive discovery
• Depose the truck driver, safety manager, and other key witnesses
• Prepare your case for trial

8. Trial or Settlement

The vast majority of 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 if the case goes to court.

Common Questions About Amherst Trucking Accidents

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

Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including trucking accidents. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly, and your case will be stronger if we can begin our investigation immediately.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Amherst?

Multiple parties may be liable:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• The cargo owner or shipper
• The company that loaded the cargo
• Truck or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers

We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

What if the truck driver says I caused the accident?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. If you’re found to be less than 50% at fault, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything.

How much is my Amherst trucking accident case worth?

Case value depends on:

• 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 higher insurance limits than typical drivers, allowing for larger recoveries.

Will my case go to trial?

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

Do I need to pay anything upfront?

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

Recent Amherst Trucking Accident Case Examples

While we can’t discuss specific client cases, recent trucking verdicts in Texas demonstrate what’s possible when companies are held accountable:

• $730 Million – Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (2021) – Oversize load fatality
• $150 Million – Werner settlement (2022) – Two children killed on I-30
• $37.5 Million – Trucking verdict (2024) – Catastrophic injuries
• $35.5 Million – Family injured in truck accident (Texas)
• $35 Million – Fort Worth trucking verdict (2025) – Largest in Tarrant County

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

Amherst Trucking Corridors We Know Well

Our familiarity with the trucking routes around Amherst helps us build stronger cases:

Highway 84

This east-west corridor carries heavy agricultural freight from the surrounding farmlands. We’ve seen numerous accidents involving:

• Overloaded grain trucks
• Improperly secured farm equipment
• Driver fatigue from long hauls
• Speeding on the straight stretches

Highway 70

Connecting to major distribution centers, this route sees significant commercial traffic. Common issues include:

• Wide turn accidents at intersections
• Rear-end collisions from sudden stops
• Cargo securement failures

Interstate 27

Just east of Amherst, this north-south corridor handles long-haul freight. Accidents often involve:

• Jackknife crashes on exit ramps
• Rollover accidents from speeding
• Underride collisions at night

US Highway 385

This route carries truck traffic through West Texas. We’ve handled cases involving:

• Brake failures on long descents
• Tire blowouts from heat and overloading
• Distracted driving on the straight stretches

The Attorney911 Difference

When you choose our firm for your Amherst trucking accident case, you get:

✅ 25+ years of experience fighting trucking companies
✅ Former insurance defense attorneys who know their tactics
✅ Federal court admission for interstate trucking cases
✅ Spanish-language services for our Hispanic community
✅ 24/7 availability for legal emergencies
✅ No fee unless we win – you pay nothing upfront
✅ Multi-million dollar results for trucking accident victims

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

Call Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Amherst, Texas, time is critical. Evidence is disappearing every hour. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect them. You deserve the same level of representation.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll:

• Evaluate your case at no cost
• Explain your legal options
• Send preservation letters immediately
• Begin gathering evidence right away
• Fight for the maximum compensation you deserve

Remember: The trucking company’s insurance adjusters are trained to minimize your claim. Don’t face them alone. Let our experienced Amherst trucking accident attorneys fight for you.

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

Don’t wait – call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. Your future may depend on it.