18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Caldwell, Texas | Attorney911
When an 18-Wheeler Changes Your Life in Caldwell, Texas
Every year, thousands of families across Texas face life-altering consequences after 18-wheeler accidents. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in Caldwell, Texas, you need an attorney who understands the unique challenges of these devastating crashes.
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims in Burleson County and across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. We know the trucking corridors serving Caldwell, from Highway 21 to the I-10 corridor, and we understand how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.
Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different in Caldwell, Texas
Trucking accidents aren’t like typical car crashes. The sheer size and weight of an 18-wheeler—up to 80,000 pounds—create catastrophic forces that passenger vehicles simply can’t withstand. In Caldwell and Burleson County, where rural highways intersect with major freight routes, these accidents often result in:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Amputations
- Severe burns
- Wrongful death
The physics are undeniable: An 80,000-pound truck traveling at 65 mph needs 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields. When trucking companies cut corners on safety, the results are often deadly.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Caldwell, Texas
Trucking accidents in Caldwell and Burleson County frequently occur due to:
1. Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)
Federal regulations limit truck drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, with mandatory 30-minute breaks after 8 hours. Yet, many drivers violate these rules to meet tight deadlines. Fatigued driving is a leading cause of trucking accidents, and ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data can prove these violations.
2. Improper Cargo Securement
When cargo isn’t properly secured, it can shift during transit, causing rollovers, jackknifes, or cargo spills that create hazardous road conditions. In Caldwell, where agricultural and industrial freight is common, improper loading is a frequent issue.
3. Brake Failures
Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes. Poor maintenance, worn brake pads, or improper adjustments can prevent a truck from stopping in time. We inspect maintenance records to determine if negligence played a role.
4. Tire Blowouts
Tire failures cause thousands of trucking accidents annually. Overloading, underinflation, or worn tires can lead to catastrophic blowouts, especially on Texas highways where extreme heat accelerates tire degradation.
5. Distracted or Impaired Driving
Truck drivers are prohibited from using hand-held phones while driving, yet many still text, check GPS, or take calls. Alcohol and drug use also contribute to accidents. We subpoena cell phone records and drug test results to uncover these violations.
6. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)
When an 18-wheeler swings wide to make a right turn, smaller vehicles can get caught in the blind spot (No-Zone) and crushed. These accidents are common in Caldwell’s intersections and along Highway 21.
7. Underride Collisions
One of the deadliest types of trucking accidents, underride crashes occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath a trailer. These accidents often result in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries. Federal law requires rear underride guards, but many trucks lack proper protection.
Who Is Liable in Your Caldwell, Texas Trucking Accident?
Unlike car accidents, multiple parties can be held responsible in an 18-wheeler crash. At Attorney911, we investigate every potential defendant to maximize your compensation:
| Potentially Liable Party | Basis for Liability |
|---|---|
| Truck Driver | Speeding, fatigue, distraction, impairment, or failure to inspect the vehicle |
| Trucking Company | Negligent hiring, inadequate training, pressuring drivers to violate HOS rules, or poor maintenance |
| Cargo Owner/Shipper | Improper loading, overloading, or failing to disclose hazardous cargo |
| Loading Company | Improper cargo securement or unbalanced loads |
| Truck/Trailer Manufacturer | Defective brakes, tires, steering, or safety systems |
| Parts Manufacturer | Defective components (e.g., brake pads, couplings) |
| Maintenance Company | Negligent repairs or failure to identify safety issues |
| Freight Broker | Negligent selection of an unsafe carrier |
| Government Entity | Poor road design, inadequate signage, or failure to maintain highways (e.g., potholes on Highway 21) |
Our advantage: Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers try to minimize claims. We use this insider knowledge to fight for you.
The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol
Evidence disappears fast in trucking cases. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage may be deleted within weeks. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams working to protect their interests—not yours.
At Attorney911, we act immediately to preserve critical evidence:
✅ Send spoliation letters to the trucking company, insurer, and all liable parties
✅ Demand ECM/Black Box data (speed, braking, throttle, GPS)
✅ Secure ELD logs to prove hours of service violations
✅ Subpoena cell phone records for distracted driving evidence
✅ Obtain maintenance records to identify deferred repairs
✅ Photograph the scene, vehicles, and injuries before evidence is lost
✅ Interview witnesses before memories fade
✅ Retain accident reconstruction experts to analyze crash dynamics
Time is critical. If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident in Caldwell, Texas, call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 before the evidence disappears.
Catastrophic Injuries from 18-Wheeler Accidents
The injuries sustained in trucking accidents are often life-changing. At Attorney911, we’ve represented clients who suffered:
1. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Even “mild” TBIs can cause memory loss, personality changes, and cognitive impairment. Severe TBIs may require lifetime care, costing millions of dollars.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries & Paralysis
Spinal cord damage can result in paraplegia or quadriplegia, requiring wheelchairs, home modifications, and 24/7 care.
3. Amputations
Crushing injuries may require surgical amputation, with prosthetic limbs costing $5,000–$50,000 each.
4. Severe Burns
Fuel fires and hazardous cargo spills can cause third-degree burns, requiring multiple skin grafts and reconstructive surgeries.
5. Internal Organ Damage
Blunt-force trauma can rupture livers, spleens, or kidneys, leading to internal bleeding and emergency surgery.
6. Wrongful Death
When a loved one is killed in a trucking accident, surviving family members can pursue wrongful death claims for:
- Lost future income
- Loss of companionship
- Funeral expenses
- Pain and suffering before death
How Much Is Your Caldwell, Texas Trucking Accident Case Worth?
Trucking companies carry far more insurance than typical drivers—$750,000 to $5 million in coverage. This means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, unlike car accidents where insurance may be limited to $30,000.
Factors that determine your case value:
- Severity of injuries (TBI, paralysis, amputations, etc.)
- Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering (physical and emotional)
- Degree of negligence (hours of service violations, falsified logs, etc.)
- Punitive damages (if gross negligence is proven)
Recent trucking verdicts in Texas:
- $730 million – Landstar Ranger (oversize load fatality)
- $150 million – Werner Enterprises (two children killed)
- $37.5 million – Trucking accident verdict (2024)
- $35 million – Wrongful death settlement (Fort Worth)
At Attorney911, we’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims. We know how to maximize your compensation.
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Caldwell, Texas
If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Caldwell or Burleson County, follow these steps:
- Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance.
- Seek immediate medical attention – Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask serious injuries.
- Document the scene – Take photos of:
- Vehicle damage (inside and out)
- Skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signs
- Injuries (bruises, cuts, swelling)
- The truck’s DOT number, license plate, and company name
- Get witness information – Names, phone numbers, and statements.
- Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company.
- Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 – We’ll send a preservation letter immediately to protect your evidence.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Caldwell, Texas Trucking Accident Case?
1. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience
Ralph Manginello has been fighting trucking companies since 1998. He’s secured multi-million dollar verdicts against major carriers and has federal court experience in the Southern District of Texas.
2. Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics
Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurers minimize, delay, and deny claims—and how to counter their tactics.
3. Immediate Evidence Preservation
We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to prevent the destruction of critical evidence. We’ve seen cases lost because victims waited too long to hire an attorney.
4. Proven Track Record of Results
- $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 wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases
5. Local Knowledge of Caldwell and Burleson County
We understand the trucking corridors, weigh stations, and distribution centers serving Caldwell, Texas. We know the local courts, judges, and insurance adjusters—giving you an advantage in your case.
6. No Fee Unless We Win
We work on contingency—you pay nothing upfront. Our fee comes from the settlement, so you never receive a bill from us.
Frequently Asked Questions About Caldwell, Texas Trucking Accidents
1. How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Texas?
Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. However, you should contact an attorney immediately—evidence disappears fast, and delays can weaken your case.
2. Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Texas follows modified comparative negligence rules. As long as you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
3. What if the trucking company claims the driver was an independent contractor?
Even if the driver is an owner-operator, the trucking company may still be liable for negligent hiring, training, or supervision. We investigate all relationships to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.
4. How much insurance does a trucking company carry?
Federal law requires:
- $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
- $1 million for oil, large equipment, or hazardous materials
- $5 million for passenger transport
Many carriers carry $1-5 million in coverage, allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.
5. Will my case go to trial?
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.
6. What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
Even if a trucking company goes out of business, we can pursue claims against:
- Their insurance company
- Freight brokers who hired them
- Cargo owners or shippers
- Manufacturers of defective parts
Caldwell, Texas Trucking Corridors: Where Accidents Happen
Caldwell sits at the intersection of major freight routes, including:
- Highway 21 – Connects Caldwell to Bryan-College Station and I-45
- Highway 36 – Runs through Burleson County toward Brenham
- I-10 Corridor – Major east-west freight route passing near Burleson County
- FM 60 – Links Caldwell to Bryan and Navasota
These routes see heavy truck traffic, increasing the risk of accidents due to:
- Driver fatigue from long hauls
- Brake failures on steep grades
- Cargo securement issues with agricultural and industrial freight
- High-speed collisions on rural highways
Don’t Let the Trucking Company Push You Around
Trucking companies have teams of lawyers and adjusters working to protect their interests—not yours. They’ll try to:
- Lowball your settlement with quick offers
- Blame you for the accident
- Delay your claim to pressure you into accepting less
- Destroy evidence to hide their negligence
You need a fighter on your side. At Attorney911, we level the playing field. We know their tactics, and we know how to win.
Call Attorney911 Now – 1-888-ATTY-911
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Caldwell, Texas, time is critical. Evidence disappears fast, and the trucking company’s lawyers are already working against you.
Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll:
✅ Send a spoliation letter to preserve evidence
✅ Investigate all liable parties
✅ Handle all communications with insurance companies
✅ Fight for the maximum compensation you deserve
We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win.
Hablamos Español. Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.
Client Testimonials
“They treated me like FAMILY, not just another case number.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client
“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client
“One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
— Donald Wilcox, Attorney911 Client
Caldwell, Texas Trucking Accident Lawyers – Fighting for You
Attorney911 | The Manginello Law Firm
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 www.attorney911.com
Offices Serving Caldwell, Texas:
- Houston (Main Office)
- Austin
- Beaumont
We answer calls 24/7. If you’ve been hurt in a trucking accident in Caldwell, Texas, call us now before the evidence disappears.