18-Wheeler Accidents in Brownwood: Your Guide to Justice and Compensation

The Moment That Changed Everything

You were driving down one of Brownwood’s familiar roads—maybe US-67 on your way to work, or US-377 heading to Early. Then suddenly, an 80,000-pound 18-wheeler was in your path. The impact was catastrophic. In that instant, your life changed forever.

At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has spent over 25 years fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas. We know Brownwood’s highways, we know the trucking companies that operate here, and we know how to hold them accountable.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in Brownwood Are Different

Brownwood sits at the crossroads of several major trucking corridors. US-67 connects to I-20, US-377 links to I-10, and US-84 runs through the heart of town. These routes bring heavy truck traffic to our community:

Oil and gas trucks servicing the Permian Basin
Agricultural haulers transporting cotton, cattle, and other products
Long-haul trucks moving goods between San Angelo, Abilene, and beyond
Delivery trucks serving Brownwood’s businesses

The physics of these accidents make them uniquely devastating. An 18-wheeler can weigh 20-25 times more than your car. At highway speeds, that’s not a fair fight—it’s a collision between a steel projectile and your family’s safety.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Brownwood

Our experience with Brownwood trucking accidents has revealed several recurring causes:

Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Truck drivers on US-67 and US-377 often push beyond federal limits to meet tight delivery schedules. FMCSA regulations limit drivers to:

11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
A 14-hour on-duty window
A 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving

Violations are common on Brownwood’s long-haul routes.

Improper Maintenance

Many trucks traveling through Brownwood are on long-haul routes from distant terminals. Maintenance issues like brake failures and tire blowouts become more likely with extended use. FMCSA requires:

Pre-trip inspections before every trip
Annual comprehensive inspections
Immediate repairs of safety defects

Distracted Driving

Cell phone use is prohibited for commercial drivers, but we frequently find violations in Brownwood cases. Other distractions include:

Dispatch communications
GPS devices
Eating while driving
Fatigue-related inattention

Cargo Securement Failures

Improperly loaded cargo causes rollovers and spills on Brownwood’s highways. FMCSA regulations require:

Proper tiedowns based on cargo weight
Balanced load distribution
Securement for specific cargo types (coils, machinery, etc.)

Speeding and Aggressive Driving

The long straight stretches of US-67 and US-377 encourage excessive speed. Speed limits for trucks are often lower than for passenger vehicles, but violations are common.

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Brownwood Cases

18-wheeler accidents in Brownwood frequently result in life-altering injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

The violent forces in a truck collision can cause the brain to impact the skull. Symptoms may include:

Memory loss and confusion
Headaches and dizziness
Personality changes
Cognitive impairment
Sleep disturbances

Many TBI survivors require lifelong care costing millions of dollars.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord can result in:

Paraplegia (loss of function below the waist)
Quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs)
Incomplete injuries with partial function loss

These injuries often require:

Wheelchairs and mobility devices
Home modifications
24/7 care
Lost earning capacity

Amputations

Crushing injuries from truck accidents often require surgical amputation. Victims face:

Prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000 each, replaced every few years)
Physical therapy
Occupational therapy
Psychological counseling
Career limitations

Severe Burns

Fires from fuel tank ruptures or cargo spills cause devastating burns requiring:

Skin grafts
Multiple reconstructive surgeries
Pain management
Physical therapy
Psychological treatment

Internal Organ Damage

The force of a truck collision can cause:

Liver and spleen lacerations
Kidney damage
Lung contusions
Internal bleeding
Bowel injuries

These injuries are often life-threatening and require emergency surgery.

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident takes a loved one, families can pursue wrongful death claims for:

Lost future income
Loss of companionship
Mental anguish
Funeral expenses
Pain and suffering before death

Who We Hold Accountable in Brownwood Trucking Cases

In Brownwood 18-wheeler accidents, multiple parties may share liability:

The Truck Driver

Direct negligence for:

Speeding
Fatigue
Distraction
Impairment
Failure to inspect vehicle

The Trucking Company

Both vicarious liability for the driver’s actions and direct liability for:

Negligent hiring (failing to check driving records)
Negligent training (inadequate safety instruction)
Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver performance)
Negligent maintenance (deferred repairs)
Negligent scheduling (pressure to violate HOS rules)

Cargo Owners and Loaders

Liability for:

Overweight loads
Improper loading
Hazardous cargo not properly disclosed
Pressure to meet unrealistic delivery schedules

Maintenance Companies

Liability for:

Negligent repairs
Failure to identify safety defects
Using substandard parts
Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

Product liability for:

Defective brake systems
Tire defects causing blowouts
Steering system failures
Safety system defects (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

Freight Brokers

Liability for:

Hiring unsafe carriers
Failing to verify carrier insurance
Failing to check carrier safety records
Selecting cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

The Evidence We Preserve in Brownwood Cases

Evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. Our Brownwood 18-wheeler accident attorneys act immediately to preserve:

Electronic Data

ECM/Black Box: Records speed, braking, throttle position, fault codes
ELD (Electronic Logging Device): Proves HOS violations and fatigue
GPS/Telematics: Shows route, speed, and location history
Dashcam Footage: Video of the accident and driver behavior
Cell Phone Records: Evidence of distraction

Driver Records

Driver Qualification File (employment application, background check, medical certification)
Hours of service logs (ELD records)
Drug and alcohol test results
Training records
Previous accident history
Performance reviews

Vehicle Records

Maintenance and repair records
Inspection reports (pre-trip, post-trip, annual)
Out-of-service orders
Tire records
Brake inspection and adjustment records

Company Records

Dispatch logs
Trip records
Safety policies
Training curricula
CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores

Physical Evidence

The truck and trailer
Failed components (brakes, tires, etc.)
Cargo and securement devices
Accident scene evidence (skid marks, debris, road conditions)

We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained to put all parties on notice that destroying evidence will have serious legal consequences.

FMCSA Violations We Find in Brownwood Cases

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations establish safety standards for commercial trucks. Common violations in Brownwood cases include:

Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395)

Driving more than 11 hours after 10 hours off duty
Driving beyond the 14-hour on-duty window
Failing to take required 30-minute breaks
Exceeding 60/70-hour weekly limits
False log entries (falsifying ELD records)

Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391)

Hiring drivers without valid CDLs
Failing to maintain Driver Qualification Files
Hiring drivers with disqualifying medical conditions
Hiring drivers with poor safety records
Failing to verify previous employment

Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396)

Deferred brake repairs
Worn or improperly adjusted brakes
Bald or underinflated tires
Inoperative lighting or reflectors
Failure to conduct pre-trip inspections
Failure to maintain maintenance records

Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR Part 393)

Insufficient tiedowns
Improper load distribution
Failure to use blocking or bracing
Overweight loads
Failure to re-inspect cargo during trip

Drug and Alcohol Violations (49 CFR Part 382)

Positive drug or alcohol tests
Failure to conduct required testing
Allowing drivers to operate while impaired

The Insurance Available in Brownwood Trucking Cases

Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance:

$750,000 for non-hazardous freight
$1,000,000 for oil, petroleum, and large equipment
$5,000,000 for hazardous materials

Many Brownwood trucking companies carry $1-5 million in coverage. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, unlike typical car accidents with $30,000 limits.

What Your Brownwood Trucking Accident Case Is Worth

Case values depend on multiple factors:

Economic Damages

Past and future medical expenses
Lost wages and earning capacity
Property damage
Out-of-pocket expenses
Life care costs for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages

Pain and suffering
Mental anguish
Loss of enjoyment of life
Disfigurement
Physical impairment
Loss of consortium (for spouses)

Punitive Damages

Available in Texas when the trucking company acted with:

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

Texas caps punitive damages at the greater of:

Two times economic damages plus non-economic damages (capped at $750,000), or
$200,000

Recent Trucking Verdicts Show What’s Possible

While these aren’t our cases, they demonstrate what juries award in serious trucking cases:

$730 Million – Texas (2021) – Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman
$150 Million – Texas (2022) – Werner settlement for two children killed on I-30
$462 Million – Missouri (2024) – Underride decapitation case
$160 Million – Alabama (2024) – Daimler rollover left driver quadriplegic
$37.5 Million – Texas (2024) – Trucking verdict for catastrophic injuries

These verdicts show that when trucking companies are held fully accountable, juries are willing to award substantial compensation.

Why Brownwood Families Choose Attorney911

Local Knowledge

We know Brownwood’s roads, we know the local courts, and we know the trucking companies that operate here. Our offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont give us statewide reach while maintaining local focus.

Proven Experience

25+ years handling trucking accident cases
Multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts
Federal court admission (Southern District of Texas)
Former insurance defense attorney on staff

Immediate Action

We move fast because evidence disappears quickly:

Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
Preserve black box and ELD data
Secure dashcam footage
Document accident scenes
Interview witnesses

Comprehensive Approach

We investigate every aspect of your case:

Accident reconstruction
Driver qualification and training
Vehicle maintenance records
Hours of service compliance
Cargo loading procedures
Corporate safety culture

Compassionate Representation

We understand the trauma you’re experiencing. Our team treats you like family, not a case number. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and address your concerns.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Brownwood

Immediate Steps

Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
Seek medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out
Document the scene – Take photos and videos of:
- All vehicles involved
- Damage to your vehicle (inside and out)
- The truck and trailer (including license plates and DOT numbers)
- Skid marks and debris
- Road conditions and signs
- Your injuries
- The accident location
Collect information – Get:
- Truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
- Trucking company name and contact information
- Insurance information
- Witness names and contact information
Don’t give statements – Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
Call Attorney911 – Contact us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911

In the Days Following

Follow your doctor’s treatment plan
Keep all medical appointments
Document your symptoms and how they affect your daily life
Save all medical bills and receipts
Don’t post about your accident on social media
Stay in communication with our office

The Attorney911 Difference

Our Team Includes a Former Insurance Defense Attorney

Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.

We Know How to Fight Big Trucking Companies

We’ve taken on major commercial defendants:

Walmart trucking operations
Coca-Cola distribution vehicles
Amazon delivery trucks
FedEx trucks
UPS trucks
Numerous commercial carriers

We Understand Brownwood’s Unique Challenges

The long stretches of US-67 and US-377 where fatigue becomes a factor
The agricultural trucking that peaks during harvest seasons
The oil and gas truck traffic from the Permian Basin
The local businesses that rely on commercial deliveries
The Brownwood court system and local judges

We Offer Fluent Spanish Services

Hablamos Español. Many truck drivers and accident victims in Brownwood speak Spanish as their primary language. Our team includes fluent Spanish speakers to ensure you receive clear communication and effective representation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brownwood Trucking Accidents

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

Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene, collect information, and contact Attorney911 immediately. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases.

How quickly should I contact a Brownwood trucking accident attorney?

Within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence like black box data and dashcam footage can be overwritten or deleted quickly.

Who can I sue after a trucking accident in Brownwood?

Multiple parties may be liable:

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

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

Yes. Under respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Companies can also be directly liable for negligent hiring, training, or supervision.

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

Texas uses modified comparative negligence. You can recover damages as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.

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

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

Speed before and during the crash
Brake application timing
Throttle position
GPS location
Fault codes

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued.

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

ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days. FMCSA requires 6 months retention for ELD data. This is why we send spoliation letters immediately.

What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We pursue:

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

Can the trucking company destroy evidence?

Once they’re on notice of potential litigation, destroying evidence is spoliation—a serious legal violation. Courts can impose sanctions, adverse inferences, or even default judgment.

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

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

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

Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes.

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find:

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

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

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

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

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

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

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

What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in Brownwood?

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

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

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Brownwood?

Case values depend on many factors:

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

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

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

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

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

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

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases.

How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

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

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

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

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

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

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

How much insurance do trucking companies carry?

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:

$750,000 for non-hazardous freight
$1,000,000 for oil, large equipment
$5,000,000 for hazardous materials

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more.

What if multiple insurance policies apply to my accident?

Trucking cases often involve multiple policies:

Motor carrier’s liability policy
Trailer interchange coverage
Cargo insurance
Owner-operator’s policy
Excess/umbrella coverage

We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.

Will the trucking company’s insurance try to settle quickly?

Often yes—and that’s a red flag. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows modified comparative negligence. You can recover damages as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.

Brownwood’s Trucking Corridors: Where Accidents Happen

Brownwood sits at the intersection of several major trucking routes:

US-67 (East-West Corridor)

Connects to I-20 near Eastland
Major route for oil and gas trucks from the Permian Basin
Agricultural haulers transporting cotton and cattle
Long-haul trucks moving goods between San Angelo and Fort Worth

US-377 (North-South Corridor)

Connects to I-10 near San Angelo
Major route for oil field equipment and supplies
Agricultural trucks servicing ranches and farms
Delivery trucks serving Brownwood businesses

US-84 (East-West Through Town)

Runs through the heart of Brownwood
Local delivery trucks
Commercial vehicles serving businesses along the route
Agricultural trucks accessing processing facilities

US-183 (North-South Alternative)

Connects to I-35 near Lampasas
Alternative route for trucks avoiding I-35 congestion
Agricultural and livestock haulers

FM 45 (Local Agricultural Route)

Connects to rural areas north of Brownwood
Heavy agricultural truck traffic during harvest seasons
Livestock haulers

FM 2126 (Local Business Route)

Connects to industrial areas
Local delivery trucks
Commercial vehicles serving businesses

Common Accident Locations in Brownwood

Our experience with Brownwood trucking accidents has identified several high-risk locations:

US-67 and US-377 Interchange

Complex intersection with heavy truck traffic
Merging and lane change conflicts
Speed differentials between local and through traffic

US-67 and US-84 Intersection

High-volume intersection in town
Traffic light timing issues
Pedestrian and cyclist conflicts

US-377 and FM 45 Intersection

Agricultural truck traffic mixing with through traffic
Visibility issues
Speed differentials

US-67 and FM 2126 Intersection

Industrial traffic mixing with through traffic
Heavy truck volume during business hours
Limited turning lanes

US-84 Through Downtown Brownwood

Narrow lanes through town
Pedestrian and cyclist conflicts
Parked vehicles reducing lane width
Business delivery traffic

US-67 Near Brownwood Regional Airport

Airport traffic mixing with highway traffic
Limited visibility at intersections
Speed differentials

FM 45 Agricultural Areas

Heavy truck traffic during harvest seasons
Narrow roads with limited shoulders
Dust and debris on roadways
Livestock crossing areas

Why Brownwood Trucking Accidents Require Local Representation

We Know the Local Courts

Brown County Courthouse procedures
Local judges’ preferences and tendencies
Court scheduling and timelines
Local rules and practices

We Understand Brownwood’s Trucking Industry

The agricultural trucking that peaks during harvest seasons
The oil and gas truck traffic from the Permian Basin
The local businesses that rely on commercial deliveries
The seasonal patterns that affect truck traffic

We Have Relationships with Local Experts

Accident reconstruction specialists familiar with Brownwood roads
Medical experts who understand local treatment options
Vocational experts who know the Brownwood job market
Economic experts who understand local wage patterns

We Understand the Local Jury Pool

Brownwood’s values and attitudes toward trucking companies
Local perceptions of personal injury claims
Community awareness of trucking safety issues
Jury tendencies in trucking cases

The Attorney911 Process for Brownwood Trucking Cases

Step 1: Immediate Response

Free consultation to evaluate your case
Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
Preserve critical evidence before it’s lost

Step 2: Comprehensive Investigation

Obtain all electronic data (ECM, ELD, GPS, dashcam)
Secure driver and company records
Conduct accident reconstruction
Interview witnesses
Document the scene and vehicles

Step 3: Medical Care Coordination

Connect you with appropriate medical providers
Ensure proper documentation of injuries
Develop comprehensive treatment plan
Coordinate with health insurance and medical providers

Step 4: Liability Analysis

Determine all potentially liable parties
Analyze FMCSA and state law violations
Evaluate comparative negligence issues
Assess insurance coverage available

Step 5: Demand Preparation

Calculate full economic damages
Document non-economic damages
Prepare comprehensive demand package
Send demand to all responsible parties

Step 6: Negotiation

Engage in settlement negotiations
Evaluate all settlement offers
Advise you on best course of action
Prepare for litigation if necessary

Step 7: Litigation (If Needed)

File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires
Conduct aggressive discovery
Depose truck driver, safety manager, maintenance personnel
Retain expert witnesses
Prepare case for trial

Step 8: Resolution

Negotiate settlement from position of strength
Take case to trial if fair settlement not offered
Ensure you receive maximum compensation

What to Expect When Working With Attorney911

Personal Attention

You’re not just a case number. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, is personally involved in every case. You’ll have direct access to your legal team throughout the process.

Regular Communication

We keep you informed every step of the way:

Regular case updates
Prompt responses to your questions
Clear explanations of legal concepts
Honest assessments of your case

Aggressive Representation

We fight for every dollar you deserve:

Thorough investigation of all liable parties
Aggressive pursuit of all available insurance
Preparation for trial to strengthen settlement position
Willingness to take cases to verdict when necessary

Compassionate Support

We understand the trauma you’re experiencing:

Empathetic listening
Emotional support
Guidance through the legal process
Help connecting with appropriate resources

Don’t Let the Trucking Company Take Advantage of You

After an 18-wheeler accident in Brownwood, the trucking company’s team is already working to protect their interests. Their insurance adjusters are trained to minimize your claim. Their investigators are documenting the scene. Their lawyers are preparing their defense.

You need someone on your side who knows how to fight back.

At Attorney911, we level the playing field. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows every tactic the trucking company will use against you. We move quickly to preserve evidence before it disappears. We investigate thoroughly to identify all liable parties. And we fight aggressively to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.

Your Next Step

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Brownwood, time is critical. Evidence is disappearing. The trucking company is building their defense. You need to act now.

Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and start protecting your rights. There’s no fee unless we win your case—you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

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

Don’t wait. Call now. Your fight for justice starts here.