18-Wheeler Accidents in Channing, Texas: Your Complete Legal Guide
If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Channing, Texas, you’re likely facing overwhelming physical, emotional, and financial challenges. The aftermath of a trucking accident is unlike any other type of collision—due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks, injuries are often catastrophic, and the legal process is far more complex.
At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for victims of 18-wheeler accidents across Texas, including in Hartley County and the Texas Panhandle. Our team, led by Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million-dollar settlements for families devastated by trucking accidents, and we’re here to help you understand your rights, the legal process, and how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.
This guide covers everything you need to know about 18-wheeler accidents in Channing, Texas, including:
- Why trucking accidents are more dangerous than car crashes
- Common causes of 18-wheeler accidents in Channing and Hartley County
- The types of catastrophic injuries these crashes cause
- How to prove negligence and hold trucking companies liable
- What to do immediately after a trucking accident in Channing
- How much your case may be worth
- Why you need an experienced Channing trucking accident attorney
If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident in Channing, Texas, call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are So Dangerous
Commercial trucks, including 18-wheelers, semi-trucks, and tractor-trailers, are 20 to 30 times heavier than passenger vehicles. A fully loaded truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, while the average car weighs just 3,500 to 4,000 pounds.
This massive size and weight disparity means that when an 18-wheeler collides with a smaller vehicle, the results are often deadly or life-altering.
Key Statistics on 18-Wheeler Accidents in Texas
- Over 5,100 people die in trucking accidents in the U.S. each year.
- 76% of those killed are occupants of the smaller vehicle.
- Texas has the highest number of trucking fatalities in the nation, with 600+ deaths annually.
- Hartley County and the Texas Panhandle see a significant number of trucking accidents due to major highways like US-385, US-87, and I-40, which serve as critical freight corridors.
Why Channing, Texas, Is a High-Risk Area for Trucking Accidents
Channing is located in Hartley County, a rural area with heavy truck traffic due to:
✅ Agricultural freight – The Texas Panhandle is a major producer of wheat, corn, and cattle, requiring frequent truck shipments.
✅ Oil and gas transport – While Hartley County isn’t in the heart of the Permian Basin, trucks carrying oilfield equipment, fuel, and hazardous materials frequently pass through on their way to and from Amarillo, Dalhart, and other regional hubs.
✅ Long-haul trucking routes – US-385 and US-87 are key north-south routes connecting Amarillo to Dalhart and beyond, while I-40 (about 50 miles south of Channing) is a major east-west freight corridor.
✅ Limited truck parking and rest areas – Truckers under pressure to meet deadlines may skip required rest breaks or park in unsafe areas, increasing fatigue-related accidents.
✅ Extreme weather conditions – The Texas Panhandle experiences high winds, dust storms, winter ice, and sudden temperature swings, all of which can contribute to trucking accidents.
If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident in Channing, Texas, you need an attorney who understands the unique challenges of rural trucking cases—including the long distances between accident scenes and medical facilities, the limited availability of accident reconstruction experts, and the aggressive tactics of trucking company insurers.
At Attorney911, we have decades of experience handling trucking accident cases in Hartley County and the Texas Panhandle, and we know how to build a strong case to maximize your compensation.
Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Channing, Texas
Trucking accidents don’t happen by accident—they’re almost always caused by negligence, recklessness, or regulatory violations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the trucking industry, but many trucking companies and drivers cut corners to save time and money, putting everyone on the road at risk.
Here are the most common causes of 18-wheeler accidents in Channing, Texas:
1. Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)
Truck drivers are legally required to take rest breaks to prevent fatigue-related crashes. However, many drivers violate federal hours-of-service (HOS) regulations to meet tight delivery deadlines.
FMCSA Hours of Service Rules (49 CFR § 395):
- 11-hour driving limit – Drivers can only drive 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
- 14-hour on-duty window – Drivers cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty.
- 30-minute break rule – Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving.
- 60/70-hour weekly limit – Drivers cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days without a 34-hour restart.
Why Fatigue is So Dangerous:
- A fatigued truck driver has slower reaction times than a drunk driver.
- Studies show that being awake for 18+ hours impairs driving ability as much as a 0.05% blood alcohol level.
- ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data can prove if a driver falsified logs or exceeded driving limits.
How We Prove Fatigue in Your Case:
- ELD records – Show how long the driver was on the road.
- Dispatch logs – Reveal if the trucking company pressured the driver to meet unrealistic deadlines.
- Cell phone records – Show if the driver was distracted by calls or texts during driving hours.
- Witness statements – Other drivers or truck stop employees may have noticed the driver appearing drowsy.
If you suspect driver fatigue played a role in your Channing trucking accident, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll subpoena the driver’s logs before they’re altered or destroyed.
2. Distracted Driving (Cell Phones, GPS, Dispatch Communications)
Distracted driving is a leading cause of trucking accidents, and it’s illegal under FMCSA regulations (49 CFR § 392.82).
Common Distractions for Truck Drivers:
- Texting while driving (strictly prohibited)
- Talking on a handheld phone (prohibited)
- Using GPS or navigation systems while driving
- Eating, drinking, or adjusting the radio
- Dispatch communications (some drivers use tablets or laptops while driving)
How We Prove Distraction in Your Case:
- Cell phone records – Show if the driver was texting or on a call at the time of the crash.
- ECM/Black Box data – Can show sudden braking or swerving consistent with distraction.
- Witness statements – Other drivers may have seen the truck drifting between lanes.
- Dashcam footage – If the truck had a forward-facing camera, it may have captured the driver’s behavior.
Texas Law on Distracted Driving:
- Texting while driving is illegal in Texas (Texas Transportation Code § 545.425).
- Commercial drivers are subject to stricter federal rules (FMCSA § 392.82).
If you believe the truck driver was distracted at the time of your Channing accident, contact us now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll investigate the driver’s phone records and hold them accountable.
3. Speeding and Reckless Driving
Truck drivers are required to adjust their speed for road conditions, but many exceed speed limits to meet tight deadlines.
Why Speeding is So Dangerous for Trucks:
- Longer stopping distances – A fully loaded truck traveling at 65 mph needs 525 feet (nearly two football fields) to stop.
- Increased rollover risk – Speeding on curves or in high winds can cause jackknife or rollover accidents.
- Reduced reaction time – At high speeds, drivers have less time to avoid hazards.
How We Prove Speeding in Your Case:
- ECM/Black Box data – Records the truck’s speed at the time of impact.
- Skid mark analysis – Can estimate the truck’s speed before braking.
- Witness statements – Other drivers may have seen the truck speeding or weaving.
- Traffic camera footage – Some intersections in Hartley County have cameras that may have captured the crash.
Texas Speeding Laws:
- Trucks must obey posted speed limits (Texas Transportation Code § 545.351).
- Trucks must reduce speed for weather, traffic, and road conditions (49 CFR § 392.6).
If the truck driver was speeding when they hit you in Channing, Texas, we’ll make sure they’re held accountable. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free case review.
4. Improper Cargo Loading and Securement
Improperly loaded or secured cargo can cause rollovers, jackknifes, and cargo spills, leading to multi-vehicle pileups.
FMCSA Cargo Securement Rules (49 CFR § 393.100-136):
- Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent shifting.
- Tiedowns must meet minimum working load limits.
- Specific rules apply to different types of cargo (logs, metal coils, machinery, etc.).
Common Cargo-Related Accidents in Channing:
- Rollover accidents – Caused by top-heavy or unbalanced loads.
- Jackknife accidents – Caused by sudden braking with improperly secured cargo.
- Cargo spills – Falling debris can strike other vehicles, causing secondary crashes.
- Hazmat incidents – Spilled fuel, chemicals, or agricultural products can cause fires, explosions, or toxic exposure.
How We Prove Cargo Negligence in Your Case:
- Cargo manifest and loading records – Show if the load was overweight or improperly secured.
- Maintenance logs – Reveal if the truck had known issues with tiedowns or straps.
- Accident reconstruction – Can determine if cargo shift caused the crash.
- Inspection reports – Show if the truck was cited for securement violations before the crash.
If improperly secured cargo contributed to your Channing trucking accident, we’ll hold the loading company, shipper, and trucking company liable. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 to discuss your case.
5. Brake Failures and Poor Maintenance
Brake failures are a leading cause of trucking accidents, accounting for nearly 30% of all large truck crashes.
FMCSA Brake System Requirements (49 CFR § 393.40-55):
- All trucks must have properly functioning service brakes on every wheel.
- Brakes must be adjusted within legal limits.
- Air brake systems must not leak.
- Drivers must conduct pre-trip brake inspections.
Common Brake-Related Issues in Trucking Accidents:
- Worn brake pads or shoes – Not replaced when needed.
- Improper brake adjustment – Brakes that are too loose don’t stop the truck effectively.
- Air brake leaks – Can cause total brake failure.
- Overheated brakes (brake fade) – Common on long downhill grades (like those found on US-385 and US-87).
- Defective brake components – Faulty parts that fail under stress.
How We Prove Brake Negligence in Your Case:
- Post-crash brake inspection – We’ll have an expert examine the brakes to determine if they were defective or improperly maintained.
- Maintenance records – Show if the trucking company ignored known brake issues.
- Driver inspection reports – Reveal if the driver failed to report brake problems.
- Black Box data – Can show if the driver applied brakes but the truck didn’t slow down.
If brake failure caused your Channing trucking accident, we’ll pursue the trucking company, maintenance provider, and parts manufacturer. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.
6. Tire Blowouts and Defective Tires
Tire blowouts are a major hazard on Texas highways, especially in hot weather and on long hauls.
FMCSA Tire Requirements (49 CFR § 393.75):
- Minimum tread depth – 4/32 of an inch on steer tires, 2/32 of an inch on other tires.
- No visible damage – No cuts, bulges, or exposed cords.
- Proper inflation – Underinflated tires overheat and fail.
Common Causes of Tire Blowouts in Channing Trucking Accidents:
- Underinflated tires – Causes excessive heat buildup.
- Overloaded trucks – Exceeding tire weight limits.
- Old or worn tires – Not replaced on schedule.
- Road debris – Nails, glass, or sharp objects.
- Manufacturing defects – Faulty tire construction.
How We Prove Tire Negligence in Your Case:
- Failed tire analysis – We’ll have an expert examine the tire that blew out to determine the cause.
- Tire purchase and maintenance records – Show if the trucking company cut corners on tire safety.
- Weigh station records – Prove if the truck was overloaded.
- Weather data – Hot Texas temperatures can accelerate tire failure.
If a tire blowout caused your Channing trucking accident, we’ll investigate whether the trucking company, tire manufacturer, or maintenance provider is liable. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 to discuss your case.
7. Driving Under the Influence (DUI) of Drugs or Alcohol
Truck drivers are prohibited from consuming alcohol or drugs while on duty, but some violate these rules and drive while impaired.
FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Rules (49 CFR § 392.4-5):
- No alcohol within 4 hours of driving.
- No alcohol while on duty.
- No possession of alcohol while on duty (with limited exceptions).
- No use of Schedule I drugs (e.g., heroin, cocaine, meth).
- No use of other drugs that impair driving ability.
How We Prove DUI in Your Case:
- Police reports – If the driver was arrested for DUI at the scene.
- Toxicology reports – Blood or urine tests showing drugs or alcohol in the driver’s system.
- Witness statements – Other drivers or truck stop employees may have noticed the driver acting intoxicated.
- Cell phone records – May show the driver stopped to buy alcohol or drugs before the crash.
If the truck driver was under the influence when they hit you in Channing, Texas, we’ll pursue punitive damages in addition to compensation for your injuries. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free case evaluation.
8. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play” Accidents)
Trucks need extra space to make turns, and when drivers swing wide before turning right, they can crush vehicles in their blind spot.
How Wide Turn Accidents Happen in Channing:
- The truck driver swings left before making a right turn.
- A smaller vehicle enters the gap between the truck and the curb.
- The truck completes the turn, crushing the smaller vehicle.
How We Prove Wide Turn Negligence in Your Case:
- Witness statements – Other drivers may have seen the truck swing wide before turning.
- Traffic camera footage – Some intersections in Hartley County have cameras.
- Skid marks and damage patterns – Show the truck’s path before impact.
- Driver training records – Reveal if the driver was improperly trained on turning procedures.
If you were injured in a wide turn accident in Channing, Texas, we’ll hold the truck driver and trucking company liable. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 to discuss your case.
9. Underride Accidents (Rear and Side)
Underride accidents occur when a smaller vehicle slides underneath a truck’s trailer, often resulting in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries.
Types of Underride Accidents:
- Rear underride – A car crashes into the back of a stopped or slow-moving truck.
- Side underride – A car crashes into the side of a truck during a lane change or turn.
Why Underride Accidents Are So Deadly:
- The trailer’s height is often above the hood of a passenger car, causing the windshield to be sheared off.
- Rear underride guards (required by FMCSA) often fail in crashes.
- Side underride guards are not required by federal law, making side impacts especially dangerous.
How We Prove Underride Negligence in Your Case:
- Underride guard inspection – We’ll examine the guard to see if it failed on impact.
- Maintenance records – Show if the trucking company ignored known guard defects.
- Accident reconstruction – Determines if the guard was properly installed.
- Traffic camera footage – May show the moment of impact.
If you or a loved one was injured in an underride accident in Channing, Texas, we’ll pursue the trucking company, trailer manufacturer, and any other liable parties. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.
10. Negligent Hiring, Training, and Supervision
Trucking companies are legally required to hire qualified drivers, train them properly, and supervise their performance. When they cut corners, they put everyone on the road at risk.
Common Trucking Company Negligence in Channing Cases:
- Hiring unqualified drivers – No CDL, poor driving record, or history of accidents.
- Inadequate training – Not teaching drivers how to handle cargo, navigate rural roads, or comply with FMCSA regulations.
- Failing to monitor drivers – Not tracking hours of service, speeding, or other violations.
- Pressuring drivers to violate safety rules – Threatening job loss if drivers refuse to exceed hours of service.
How We Prove Negligent Hiring in Your Case:
- Driver Qualification File (DQF) – Shows if the trucking company failed to check the driver’s background.
- Previous employer records – Reveal if the driver had a history of accidents or violations.
- Training records – Show if the driver was improperly trained.
- Dispatch logs – Prove if the company pressured the driver to meet unrealistic deadlines.
If the trucking company failed to hire, train, or supervise the driver properly, we’ll hold them fully liable for your injuries. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 to discuss your case.
Catastrophic Injuries Caused by 18-Wheeler Accidents in Channing, Texas
Due to the massive size and weight of commercial trucks, 18-wheeler accidents often result in life-altering injuries that require lifelong medical care.
1. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
TBI occurs when the brain is violently shaken or struck, often due to sudden impact or whiplash. Even mild TBIs can cause long-term cognitive and emotional problems.
Symptoms of TBI:
- Headaches and dizziness
- Memory loss and confusion
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood swings, depression, and anxiety
- Sleep disturbances
- Sensory problems (blurred vision, ringing in ears)
- Speech difficulties
Long-Term Consequences of TBI:
- Permanent cognitive impairment
- Inability to work
- Need for lifelong care and supervision
- Increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s
Cost of TBI Treatment:
- $85,000 to $3,000,000+ over a lifetime, depending on severity.
If you or a loved one suffered a TBI in a Channing trucking accident, you need an attorney who can prove the full extent of your damages and fight for maximum compensation. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free case review.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
Spinal cord injuries occur when the spinal cord is damaged, often resulting in paralysis below the injury site.
Types of Spinal Cord Injuries:
| Injury Level | Type of Paralysis | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| C1-C4 (Neck) | Quadriplegia (tetraplegia) | Loss of function in arms, legs, and torso; may require ventilator for breathing |
| C5-C8 (Neck) | Quadriplegia (partial) | Some arm function may remain; no leg function |
| T1-T12 (Upper Back) | Paraplegia | Loss of function below the waist; full use of arms |
| L1-L5 (Lower Back) | Paraplegia (partial) | Some leg function may remain |
Lifetime Costs of Spinal Cord Injuries:
- Paraplegia (low injury): $1.1 million+
- Paraplegia (high injury): $2.5 million+
- Quadriplegia (low injury): $3.5 million+
- Quadriplegia (high injury): $5 million+
If you or a loved one suffered a spinal cord injury in a Channing trucking accident, you need an attorney who can secure the compensation you need for lifelong care. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 to discuss your case.
3. Amputations
Amputations occur when a limb is severed in the crash or when surgical amputation is required due to severe damage.
Common Causes of Amputations in Trucking Accidents:
- Crushing injuries from the force of impact.
- Entrapment requiring amputation for extraction.
- Severe burns requiring surgical removal.
- Infections from open wounds.
Ongoing Medical Needs After Amputation:
- Prosthetic limbs ($5,000–$50,000+ per prosthetic, replaced every few years).
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation.
- Occupational therapy to relearn daily tasks.
- Psychological counseling for trauma and depression.
- Home modifications (ramps, grab bars, etc.).
Lifetime Costs of Amputation:
- $500,000 to $2,000,000+, depending on the limb and complications.
If you or a loved one suffered an amputation in a Channing trucking accident, you need an attorney who can fight for the compensation you need for prosthetics, medical care, and lost income. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.
4. Severe Burns
Burns are common in trucking accidents due to fuel tank ruptures, electrical fires, or hazmat cargo spills.
Types of Burns:
| Degree | Depth | Treatment Required |
|---|---|---|
| First-Degree | Epidermis (outer layer) | Minor, heals without scarring |
| Second-Degree | Epidermis and dermis | May require skin grafts, can scar |
| Third-Degree | Full thickness (skin, fat, muscle) | Skin grafts required, permanent scarring |
| Fourth-Degree | Through skin to bone | Multiple surgeries, possible amputation |
Long-Term Consequences of Severe Burns:
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Chronic pain
- Increased risk of infection
- Psychological trauma (PTSD, depression)
- Need for multiple reconstructive surgeries
Cost of Burn Treatment:
- $50,000 to $1,000,000+, depending on severity.
If you or a loved one suffered severe burns in a Channing trucking accident, you need an attorney who can hold the trucking company and hazmat handlers accountable. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 to discuss your case.
5. Internal Organ Damage
The force of a trucking accident can cause internal bleeding, organ rupture, and other life-threatening injuries that may not be immediately apparent.
Common Internal Injuries:
- Liver laceration or rupture
- Spleen damage (may require removal)
- Kidney damage
- Lung contusion or collapse (pneumothorax)
- Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
- Bowel or intestinal damage
Why Internal Injuries Are Dangerous:
- May not show symptoms immediately.
- Can be fatal if not treated quickly.
- Often require emergency surgery.
If you were injured in a Channing trucking accident and suspect internal damage, seek immediate medical attention and call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 to protect your legal rights.
6. Wrongful Death
When a trucking accident is fatal, surviving family members can file a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for their loss.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas?
- Surviving spouse
- Children (minor and adult)
- Parents (if no spouse or children survive)
Damages Available in Wrongful Death Cases:
- Lost future income and benefits
- Loss of companionship and guidance
- Mental anguish and emotional suffering
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses before death
- Punitive damages (if gross negligence is proven)
Texas Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations:
- 2 years from the date of death to file a lawsuit.
If you lost a loved one in a Channing trucking accident, we’re so sorry for your loss. We can help you hold the trucking company accountable and secure the compensation your family needs to move forward. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Channing 18-Wheeler Accident?
Unlike car accidents, 18-wheeler accidents often involve multiple liable parties. At Attorney911, we investigate every possible defendant to maximize your compensation.
1. The Truck Driver
The driver may be personally liable for:
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Distracted driving (cell phone use, GPS, dispatch communications)
- Fatigued driving (hours of service violations)
- Driving under the influence (drugs or alcohol)
- Failure to inspect the truck before driving
2. The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)
The trucking company can be held vicariously liable for the driver’s actions under respondeat superior (employer liability). They can also be directly liable for:
- Negligent hiring (failing to check the driver’s background)
- Negligent training (not teaching the driver proper safety procedures)
- Negligent supervision (not monitoring the driver’s performance)
- Negligent maintenance (failing to repair known defects)
- Pressuring drivers to violate FMCSA regulations
3. The Cargo Owner or Shipper
The company that owned the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable for:
- Improper loading instructions
- Failure to disclose hazardous materials
- Requiring overweight or oversized loads
- Pressuring the trucking company to meet unrealistic deadlines
4. The Cargo Loading Company
If a third-party company loaded the cargo, they may be liable for:
- Improper cargo securement (violating FMCSA rules)
- Unbalanced load distribution
- Exceeding weight limits
- Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
5. The Truck or Trailer Manufacturer
If a defective part contributed to the crash, the manufacturer may be liable under product liability laws. Common defects include:
- Faulty brakes
- Defective tires
- Steering system failures
- Defective underride guards
- Electrical system failures
6. The Parts Manufacturer
Companies that manufacture specific components (brakes, tires, coupling devices) may be liable if their product failed.
7. The Maintenance Company
If a third-party maintenance provider serviced the truck, they may be liable for:
- Negligent repairs (failing to fix known issues)
- Improper brake adjustments
- Using substandard or wrong parts
- Returning the truck to service with known defects
8. The Freight Broker
Freight brokers arrange transportation but don’t own trucks. They may be liable for:
- Negligent selection of a carrier (hiring a company with a poor safety record)
- Failure to verify the carrier’s insurance and authority
- Failing to check the carrier’s FMCSA safety rating
9. The Truck Owner (If Different from the Carrier)
In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may be liable for:
- Negligent entrustment (allowing an unqualified driver to operate the truck)
- Failure to maintain the truck
- Knowledge of the driver’s unfitness
10. Government Entities (In Limited Cases)
If a road defect contributed to the crash, a government entity may be liable for:
- Dangerous road design (sharp curves, inadequate banking)
- Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
- Inadequate signage (missing or unclear warning signs)
- Improper work zone setup
Special Considerations for Government Liability:
- Sovereign immunity limits government liability.
- Strict notice requirements apply (often 6 months or less).
- Damage caps may limit recovery.
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Channing, Texas
The first 48 hours after a trucking accident are critical for preserving evidence and protecting your legal rights. Follow these steps to strengthen your case:
1. Call 911 Immediately
- Report the accident to law enforcement.
- Request an ambulance if anyone is injured.
- Do not move vehicles unless they are blocking traffic and it is safe to do so.
2. Seek Medical Attention
- Even if you feel fine, get checked by a doctor.
- Adrenaline masks pain—some injuries (TBI, internal bleeding) may not show symptoms immediately.
- Medical records are critical evidence in your case.
3. Document the Scene
Take photos and videos of:
✅ All vehicles involved (damage to the truck and your car)
✅ License plates and DOT numbers (on the truck and trailer)
✅ Skid marks and debris (shows the point of impact)
✅ Road conditions (wet, icy, potholes, construction zones)
✅ Traffic signs and signals (stop signs, traffic lights)
✅ Your injuries (cuts, bruises, swelling)
✅ Witnesses (get their names and contact information)
4. Get the Truck Driver’s Information
- Name, phone number, and address
- Commercial driver’s license (CDL) number
- Trucking company name and contact information
- Insurance information
- Truck and trailer license plate numbers
5. Get Witness Information
- Names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the crash.
- Statements about what they saw.
6. Do NOT Give a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company
- Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not for you.
- Anything you say can be used against you to minimize your claim.
- Refer all calls to your attorney.
7. Do NOT Sign Anything Without Legal Advice
- Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement—do not accept it.
- First offers are almost always too low to cover your long-term needs.
8. Call an 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney Immediately
- Evidence disappears fast—trucking companies destroy records to protect themselves.
- We send spoliation letters to preserve critical evidence (ECM data, ELD logs, maintenance records).
- We handle all communications