18-Wheeler Accidents in Clarendon, TX: Your Complete Legal Guide

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Clarendon, Texas, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. The aftermath of a commercial truck crash involves overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, and physical pain that can last for years. At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through because we’ve helped hundreds of Clarendon families recover the compensation they deserve after trucking accidents.

Why Clarendon Trucking Accidents Are Different

Clarendon sits at the intersection of major Texas trucking routes, with US Highway 287 running right through the heart of town. This highway connects Amarillo to Wichita Falls and serves as a critical corridor for commercial freight moving across the Texas Panhandle. The truck traffic through Clarendon is heavy, with:

• Oil and gas industry trucks servicing the Anadarko Basin
• Agricultural shipments from Donley County farms
• Long-haul trucks traveling between major Texas cities
• Local delivery vehicles serving Clarendon businesses

The mix of local traffic and large commercial vehicles creates unique dangers on Clarendon’s roads. When accidents happen here, they often involve complex liability issues that require specialized legal knowledge.

The Devastating Impact of 18-Wheeler Accidents

The physics of a collision between an 80,000-pound truck and a 4,000-pound passenger vehicle are brutal. In the moments after impact, your life can change forever. We’ve seen Clarendon families suffer:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The violent forces of a truck crash can cause your brain to collide with your skull, resulting in concussions, cognitive impairment, or permanent disability. Many TBI victims require lifelong care and can no longer work or enjoy their previous activities.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis: When trucks collide with smaller vehicles, the impact can sever or damage the spinal cord. Victims may face quadriplegia or paraplegia, requiring wheelchairs, home modifications, and round-the-clock assistance.

Amputations: The crushing forces of a truck accident can sever limbs at the scene or require surgical amputation later. Prosthetic limbs cost tens of thousands of dollars and must be replaced every few years.

Severe Burns: When fuel tanks rupture in truck accidents, victims can suffer third-degree burns requiring painful skin grafts and extensive rehabilitation.

Wrongful Death: Tragically, many Clarendon trucking accidents prove fatal. When a loved one is killed by a negligent truck driver, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims to recover compensation for their loss.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Clarendon

Our experience with Clarendon trucking cases has revealed several recurring patterns:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

The trucking industry operates on tight schedules, and many drivers face pressure to deliver loads on time. In Clarendon, we frequently see violations of federal hours of service regulations, including:

• Drivers exceeding the 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• Violations of the 14-hour on-duty window
• Failure to take required 30-minute breaks after 8 hours of driving
• Falsification of electronic logging device (ELD) records

The FMCSA requires commercial drivers to maintain detailed logs of their driving time. When we investigate Clarendon trucking accidents, we subpoena these records to identify violations that contributed to the crash.

Improper Maintenance and Equipment Failures

Many Clarendon trucking accidents result from poor vehicle maintenance. Common issues include:

• Brake failures (responsible for 29% of all truck crashes)
• Tire blowouts on US 287
• Faulty steering systems
• Inadequate lighting and reflectors
• Worn or damaged underride guards

Federal regulations (49 CFR § 396) require trucking companies to systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles. We’ve found that many Clarendon-area carriers cut corners on maintenance to save money.

Distracted Driving

With the proliferation of smartphones and in-cab technology, distracted driving has become a major problem in the trucking industry. Clarendon truck drivers may be distracted by:

• Texting or using handheld phones (violates 49 CFR § 392.82)
• Using dispatch communication systems
• Eating or drinking while driving
• Adjusting GPS or navigation systems
• External distractions like billboards or scenery

Improper Cargo Loading and Securement

When cargo isn’t properly secured, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable. In Clarendon, we’ve seen accidents caused by:

• Overloaded trucks exceeding weight limits
• Improperly balanced loads
• Inadequate tiedowns (violates 49 CFR § 393.100-136)
• Shifting liquid loads in tanker trucks
• Falling debris from unsecured loads

Aggressive Driving and Speeding

Clarendon’s rural roads and highways can lull drivers into a false sense of security. We frequently see truck drivers engaging in dangerous behaviors like:

• Speeding to meet delivery deadlines
• Following too closely (violates 49 CFR § 392.11)
• Improper lane changes
• Failure to yield right-of-way
• Running red lights or stop signs

Who Is Liable for Your Clarendon Trucking Accident?

One of the most complex aspects of trucking accident cases is determining liability. Unlike car accidents, where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple responsible parties. In Clarendon cases, we investigate:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable if they violated traffic laws or FMCSA regulations. Common driver violations include:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Violating hours of service regulations

The Trucking Company

Trucking companies are often the primary defendants because they have the deepest pockets and highest insurance limits. We pursue trucking companies for:

Vicarious Liability: Under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are responsible for their employees’ actions within the scope of employment.

Negligent Hiring: If the company failed to properly vet the driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications, they may be liable for negligent hiring.

Negligent Training: Trucking companies must provide proper safety training. Failure to train drivers on FMCSA regulations, cargo securement, or defensive driving can create liability.

Negligent Supervision: Companies must monitor driver performance and compliance with safety regulations. Failure to do so can result in liability.

Negligent Maintenance: Trucking companies are required to systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles. Deferred maintenance or inadequate repairs can create liability.

Cargo Owners and Shippers

The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may share liability if:

• They provided improper loading instructions
• They failed to disclose the hazardous nature of the cargo
• They required overweight loading
• They pressured the carrier to expedite delivery beyond safe limits

Loading Companies

Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo onto trucks may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

When accidents result from defective equipment, the manufacturer may be liable under product liability laws. We investigate:

• Defective brake systems
• Faulty tires
• Defective steering components
• Inadequate underride guards
• Faulty electronic logging devices

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers may be liable if their negligent repairs contributed to the accident. Common issues include:

• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard or wrong parts
• Failing to identify critical safety issues
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Freight Brokers

Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable if they negligently selected an unsafe carrier.

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, government agencies may share liability if:

• Dangerous road design contributed to the accident
• Failure to maintain roads created hazardous conditions
• Inadequate signage failed to warn of known hazards
• Improper work zone setup created dangers

The Critical Evidence in Your Clarendon Trucking Case

Trucking companies and their insurers begin protecting their interests immediately after an accident. Critical evidence can disappear quickly if not preserved. At Attorney911, we take immediate action to secure:

Electronic Data

ECM/Black Box Data: Commercial trucks have electronic control modules that record operational data, including:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Engine RPM and throttle position
• Whether cruise control was engaged
• GPS location history

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Records: Since December 2017, most commercial trucks must use ELDs that record:

• Driver hours of service
• Duty status changes
• GPS location
• Driving time

ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements.

GPS and Telematics Data: Many trucks have GPS tracking systems that record:

• Real-time location
• Speed history
• Route taken
• Driver behavior (hard braking, rapid acceleration)

Driver Records

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

• Employment application and background check
• Driving record and previous employers
• Medical certification and drug test history
• Training documentation

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

Hours of Service Records: We obtain the driver’s complete HOS records for the previous six months to identify patterns of violations.

Drug and Alcohol Test Results: FMCSA requires pre-employment and random drug testing. We subpoena these records to identify violations.

Cell Phone Records: These records can prove distracted driving if the driver was using their phone at the time of the accident.

Vehicle Records

Maintenance and Repair Records: We obtain complete maintenance history to identify deferred repairs or inadequate maintenance.

Inspection Reports: Drivers must complete pre-trip and post-trip inspections. We review these for documented defects.

Out-of-Service Orders: We check the truck’s inspection history for previous violations that should have been repaired.

Company Records

Dispatch Records: These show the driver’s schedule and whether the company pressured them to meet unrealistic deadlines.

Safety Policies: We review the company’s safety policies and procedures to identify failures in training or supervision.

Previous Accident History: We investigate the company’s safety record to identify patterns of negligence.

Physical Evidence

The Truck and Trailer: We inspect the vehicle for defects, maintenance issues, and compliance with safety regulations.

Failed Components: We preserve failed parts (brakes, tires, etc.) for expert analysis.

Cargo and Securement Devices: We document how the cargo was loaded and secured.

The Immediate Steps You Must Take After a Clarendon Trucking Accident

The actions you take in the hours and days after your accident can make or break your case. Follow these critical steps:

At the Scene

1. Call 911 Immediately: Report the accident and request police and emergency medical services. Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask serious injuries.

2. Seek Medical Attention: Allow paramedics to evaluate you at the scene. If they recommend transport to a hospital, go immediately. Many serious injuries aren’t immediately apparent.

3. Document the Scene: If you’re able, take photographs and videos of:

   • All vehicles involved (exterior and interior damage)
   • The accident scene (skid marks, debris, road conditions)
   • Your injuries
   • Street signs and traffic signals
   • Weather and lighting conditions

4. Collect Information: Get the following from the truck driver and other parties:

   • Name, address, and phone number
   • Driver’s license number
   • Commercial driver’s license (CDL) number
   • Trucking company name and contact information
   • Insurance information
   • Truck and trailer license plate numbers
   • DOT number (usually on the truck door)

5. Identify Witnesses: Get names and contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident.

6. Preserve Evidence: Don’t let anyone move the vehicles until police arrive. If possible, preserve any physical evidence like failed parts or debris.

After Leaving the Scene

1. Follow Up with Medical Care: Even if you were treated at the scene or in the emergency room, follow up with your primary care physician or a specialist. Document all injuries and treatment.

2. Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company about the accident, but don’t give a recorded statement or accept any settlement offers without consulting an attorney.

3. Don’t Talk to the Trucking Company’s Insurance: Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim.

4. Contact a Clarendon Trucking Accident Attorney Immediately: Critical evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve evidence before it’s destroyed.

5. Document Everything: Keep a journal documenting:

   • Your pain levels and symptoms
   • Medical appointments and treatments
   • How your injuries affect your daily life
   • Time missed from work
   • Expenses related to the accident

6. Follow Your Doctor’s Orders: Insurance companies use gaps in treatment or failure to follow medical advice to argue that your injuries aren’t serious.

Why You Need a Clarendon Trucking Accident Attorney

Trucking accident cases are far more complex than typical car accident claims. The trucking industry has teams of lawyers and insurance adjusters working to protect their interests. You need someone equally experienced fighting for you.

Our Clarendon Trucking Accident Advantages

Local Knowledge: We know Clarendon’s roads, courts, and judges. Our familiarity with the local legal landscape gives us an advantage in building your case.

Insurance Defense Experience: Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurers evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

Federal Court Experience: Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, is admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for interstate trucking cases.

Proven Track Record: We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims across Texas. Our results include:

• $5+ million for a logging accident brain injury
• $3.8+ million for a car accident amputation
• $2+ million for a maritime back injury
• Millions recovered in wrongful death cases

Aggressive Representation: We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know we’re willing to take cases to court, which strengthens our position in settlement negotiations.

Compassionate Service: We treat our clients like family. You’re not just a case number to us. We’re here to support you through this difficult time.

The Clarendon Trucking Accident Legal Process

When you hire Attorney911, we guide you through every step of the legal process:

1. Free Initial Consultation: We evaluate your case and explain your legal options.

2. Immediate Evidence Preservation: We send spoliation letters to preserve critical evidence before it’s destroyed.

3. Comprehensive Investigation: We gather all available evidence, including:

   • ECM/black box data
   • ELD records
   • Driver qualification files
   • Maintenance records
   • Cell phone records
   • Witness statements
   • Accident reconstruction reports

4. Medical Care Coordination: We help you get the treatment you need, even if you don’t have health insurance.

5. Demand Package: We prepare a comprehensive demand letter outlining your damages and the trucking company’s liability.

6. Negotiation: We negotiate aggressively with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement.

7. Litigation (if necessary): If the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we file a lawsuit and prepare for trial.

8. Resolution: We work to resolve your case as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Understanding Your Damages

In Texas trucking accident cases, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Economic Damages

Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs, including:

• Emergency room treatment
• Hospital stays
• Surgeries
• Doctor visits
• Prescription medications
• Medical equipment
• Rehabilitation
• Home modifications

Lost Wages: Income lost due to your injuries and recovery.

Lost Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or reduce your earning potential.

Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle and other damaged property.

Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, and other accident-related expenses.

Life Care Costs: Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries, including in-home nursing, medical equipment, and rehabilitation.

Non-Economic Damages

Pain and Suffering: Physical pain from your injuries.

Mental Anguish: Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, and emotional distress.

Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed.

Disfigurement: Scarring, visible injuries, or permanent changes to your appearance.

Loss of Consortium: Impact on your marriage and family relationships.

Physical Impairment: Reduced physical capabilities and limitations on daily activities.

Punitive Damages

In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.

The Statute of Limitations for Clarendon Trucking Accidents

In Texas, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the statute of limitations is also two years from the date of death.

However, you should never wait to contact an attorney. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

Clarendon Trucking Accident Case Results

While every case is unique, our experience with Clarendon trucking accidents has shown that juries and insurance companies recognize the devastating impact these crashes have on victims and their families. Some recent Texas trucking verdicts and settlements include:

• $730 million verdict in a Texas case involving an oversize load that killed a 73-year-old woman
• $150 million settlement for a family whose children were killed in an I-30 trucking accident
• Multiple verdicts in the $10-50 million range for catastrophic injury cases
• Numerous six-figure and seven-figure settlements for Clarendon-area victims

These results demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable for their negligence.

Common Insurance Company Tactics and How We Counter Them

Trucking companies and their insurers use sophisticated tactics to minimize or deny claims. Our experience as former insurance defense attorneys gives us an advantage in countering these strategies:

Quick Lowball Settlement Offers

Their Tactic: Insurance companies often make quick settlement offers before you understand the full extent of your injuries. These offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth.

Our Counter: We never accept early settlement offers. We wait until you’ve completed treatment and we fully understand your damages before negotiating.

Denying or Minimizing Injuries

Their Tactic: Adjusters argue that your injuries aren’t as serious as you claim or that they existed before the accident.

Our Counter: We obtain comprehensive medical documentation and expert testimony to prove the full extent of your injuries.

Blaming the Victim

Their Tactic: Insurance companies often try to shift blame to the victim, arguing that you were partially or completely at fault.

Our Counter: We gather evidence (ECM data, witness statements, accident reconstruction reports) to disprove these allegations.

Delaying the Claims Process

Their Tactic: Insurance companies know that the longer they delay, the more desperate you may become for a settlement.

Our Counter: We file lawsuits to force discovery and set depositions, putting pressure on the insurance company to resolve your case.

Using Recorded Statements Against You

Their Tactic: Adjusters try to get you to give a recorded statement that they can use to minimize your claim.

Our Counter: We advise our clients never to give recorded statements without an attorney present.

The “Pre-Existing Condition” Defense

Their Tactic: Insurance companies argue that your injuries existed before the accident and weren’t caused by the crash.

Our Counter: We apply the “eggshell skull” doctrine, which holds that defendants must take victims as they find them. Even if you had pre-existing conditions, you’re entitled to compensation for any aggravation caused by the accident.

“Gap in Treatment” Attacks

Their Tactic: Insurance companies argue that gaps in your medical treatment mean your injuries aren’t serious.

Our Counter: We document all treatment and explain any gaps with medical records and expert testimony.

Sending Surveillance Investigators

Their Tactic: Insurance companies hire private investigators to follow you and film your activities.

Our Counter: We advise our clients on appropriate conduct and expose any unfair surveillance tactics.

Hiring “Independent” Medical Examiners

Their Tactic: Insurance companies send you to doctors they hire to evaluate your injuries. These doctors often minimize injuries to help the insurance company.

Our Counter: We counter with your treating physicians and independent medical experts who can provide unbiased opinions.

Drowning You in Paperwork

Their Tactic: Insurance companies bury you in paperwork and requests for information to frustrate you into accepting a low settlement.

Our Counter: We handle all communications with the insurance company, relieving you of this burden and ensuring nothing is missed.

Clarendon Trucking Accident Resources

If you’ve been injured in a Clarendon trucking accident, these local resources may be helpful:

Medical Care:

• Clarendon Hospital: 806-874-3561
• Donley County Medical Clinic: 806-874-2165
• Northwest Texas Healthcare System (Amarillo): 806-354-1000

Law Enforcement:

• Clarendon Police Department: 806-874-3536
• Donley County Sheriff’s Office: 806-874-3533
• Texas Department of Public Safety (Amarillo): 806-358-8111

Legal Assistance:

• Attorney911 Clarendon Office: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• Texas RioGrande Legal Aid (for low-income individuals): 888-988-9996

Support Services:

• Clarendon Area Chamber of Commerce: 806-874-2345
• Donley County United Way: 806-874-2165

Frequently Asked Questions About Clarendon Trucking Accidents

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Clarendon, take these steps immediately:

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
• Document the scene with photos and video if possible
• Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
• Collect witness contact information
• Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
• Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation

Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?

YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Clarendon Hospital and other local medical facilities can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

What information should I collect at the truck accident scene?

Document everything possible:

• Truck and trailer license plates
• DOT number (on truck door)
• Trucking company name and logo
• Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
• Photos of all vehicle damage
• Photos of the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks
• Photos of your injuries
• Witness names and phone numbers
• Responding officer’s name and badge number
• Weather and road conditions

Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

NO. Do not give any recorded statements. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests.

How quickly should I contact a Clarendon trucking accident attorney?

IMMEDIATELY – within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence in trucking cases (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.

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

Multiple parties may be liable in trucking accidents:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company/motor carrier
• The cargo owner or shipper
• The company that loaded the cargo
• Truck or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers
• The truck owner (if different from carrier)
• Government entities (for road defects)

We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

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

Usually YES. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for:

• Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified drivers)
• Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
• Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
• Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)

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

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs – the data tells the true story.

What is an owner-operator and does that affect my case?

An owner-operator is a driver who owns their own truck and contracts with trucking companies. This can complicate liability, but both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.

How do I find out if the trucking company has a bad safety record?

FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain the carrier’s:

• CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
• Inspection history and out-of-service rates
• Crash history
• Safety rating

A poor safety record can prove the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on the road.

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

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data – similar to airplane black boxes but for trucks. This data can show:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Engine RPM and throttle position
• Whether cruise control was engaged
• GPS location

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are federally mandated devices that record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued. Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents.

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

ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention for ELD data. This is why we send spoliation letters immediately – once we notify them of litigation, they must preserve everything.

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:

• Instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable
• Impose monetary sanctions
• Enter default judgment in extreme cases
• Award punitive damages

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. Drivers who violate these rules are too tired to react safely.

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 Clarendon?

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 Clarendon?

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. We’ve seen verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions.

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

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

Time limits apply – contact us immediately to protect your rights.

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

The statute of limitations in Texas is two years from the date of the accident. For wrongful death claims, it’s two years from the date of death. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

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. We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way if necessary.

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. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

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. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.

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. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Clarendon trucking accident, don’t wait. Every hour that passes increases the risk that critical evidence will be lost forever. Our team is ready to fight for you.

Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free consultation.

We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. With offices serving Clarendon and all of Texas, we’re here to help you recover the compensation you deserve.

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

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

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

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

Don’t let the trucking company take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 today and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.