18-Wheeler Accidents in College Station: Your Complete Legal Guide

If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in College Station, you’re facing one of the most complex and high-stakes legal challenges imaginable. The massive size and weight of commercial trucks make these collisions particularly devastating, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or wrongful death. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we know exactly how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

Why College Station Trucking Accidents Are Different

College Station’s unique position in the Texas transportation network creates specific risks that don’t exist in other parts of the state. Our city sits at the intersection of major highways that connect the Gulf Coast to the Midwest, making it a critical hub for commercial freight. The presence of Texas A&M University adds another layer of complexity, with student drivers sharing the road with large commercial vehicles.

College Station’s Trucking Corridors

The most dangerous areas for trucking accidents in College Station include:

State Highway 6 – This major north-south corridor carries heavy truck traffic between Houston and the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The stretch through College Station sees frequent congestion and dangerous lane changes.
FM 2818 (Harvey Mitchell Parkway) – A critical east-west route that connects I-45 to SH 6, this roadway experiences significant truck traffic from distribution centers and local businesses.
University Drive – The high volume of student traffic combined with commercial vehicles creates dangerous conditions, particularly during peak university hours.
Texas Avenue – This major thoroughfare through downtown College Station sees frequent truck deliveries to local businesses, increasing the risk of urban trucking accidents.
The intersection of SH 6 and FM 2818 – This major interchange experiences heavy truck traffic and is a known hotspot for commercial vehicle accidents.
Distribution centers along FM 2818 – These facilities generate significant truck traffic during loading and unloading operations.

Our team knows these corridors intimately. We’ve handled cases on every major highway in the Brazos Valley, and we understand the specific challenges that College Station’s trucking routes present.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make them particularly deadly:

A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds – that’s 20-25 times heavier than the average passenger vehicle
At highway speeds, an 80,000-pound truck needs approximately 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields
The height difference between trucks and cars means that in many collisions, the car’s passenger compartment is completely crushed
Underride collisions, where a car slides underneath a truck’s trailer, are almost always fatal

These factors combine to create accidents that result in catastrophic injuries:

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

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in College Station

Our experience handling College Station trucking cases has revealed several recurring causes:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

The FMCSA’s hours of service regulations are designed to prevent driver fatigue, but violations are alarmingly common in College Station:

11-Hour Driving Limit: Drivers cannot drive more than 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 Requirement: 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

Despite these clear regulations, we routinely find violations in College Station trucking cases. Drivers and companies push these limits to meet delivery deadlines, putting everyone on our roads at risk.

Distracted Driving

Cell phone use is strictly prohibited for commercial drivers under 49 CFR § 392.82, yet we see it all too often in College Station accidents. Other distractions include:

Dispatch communications
GPS devices
Eating while driving
Adjusting in-cab controls
External distractions (billboards, roadside attractions)

Improper Maintenance and Equipment Failures

The FMCSA requires systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of all commercial vehicles. Common violations we find in College Station cases include:

Brake failures (responsible for 29% of truck accidents)
Tire blowouts (common in our hot Texas climate)
Lighting and visibility issues (critical on our rural highways)
Coupling device failures (can cause trailers to detach)

Improper Cargo Loading

Cargo securement violations are particularly dangerous on College Station’s highways. The FMCSA’s cargo securement rules (49 CFR § 393.100-136) require:

Proper blocking and bracing
Adequate tiedowns (minimum working load limits)
Proper weight distribution
Securement for specific cargo types

When cargo shifts or spills, it can cause rollovers, jackknifes, or create road hazards that lead to multi-vehicle collisions.

Speeding and Aggressive Driving

The long stretches of highway around College Station can lull drivers into a false sense of security. However, speeding is particularly dangerous for large trucks:

Increases stopping distance
Reduces reaction time
Increases rollover risk
Amplifies impact force in collisions

Impaired Driving

Despite strict regulations, we still see cases involving:

Alcohol impairment
Illegal drug use
Prescription medication misuse
Over-the-counter medication effects

Who’s Really Responsible? Multiple Parties Can Be Liable

One of the most important aspects of trucking accident cases is that multiple parties can share liability. Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve:

The Truck Driver – For negligent operation (speeding, distraction, impairment)
The Trucking Company – For negligent hiring, training, or supervision
The Cargo Owner – For improper loading or hazardous materials
The Loading Company – For improper securement of cargo
The Truck Manufacturer – For defective components
The Parts Manufacturer – For defective brakes, tires, or other parts
The Maintenance Company – For negligent repairs
The Freight Broker – For negligent carrier selection
The Truck Owner – If different from the carrier
Government Entities – For dangerous road conditions

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how to identify all liable parties and maximize your recovery.

The Critical First 48 Hours: Evidence Preservation

Time is your enemy after a trucking accident. Critical evidence disappears quickly:

ECM/Black Box Data: Can be overwritten in as little as 30 days
ELD Logs: May be retained for only 6 months
Dashcam Footage: Often deleted within 7-14 days
Surveillance Video: Business cameras typically overwrite in 7-30 days
Physical Evidence: The truck may be repaired or scrapped
Witness Memories: Fade significantly within weeks

That’s why we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained. This legal notice demands that all parties preserve evidence and puts them on notice that destroying evidence will have serious legal consequences.

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in College Station

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in College Station, take these steps immediately:

Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, get checked out. Many injuries don’t show symptoms immediately
Document the Scene – Take photos and videos of:
- Vehicle damage (all vehicles involved)
- The accident scene (road conditions, skid marks, debris)
- Your injuries
- The truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company information
- Witness contact information
Get the Truck Driver’s Information – Name, CDL number, contact information
Get the Trucking Company’s Information – Company name, DOT number, insurance information
Do NOT Give Recorded Statements – Insurance adjusters will try to get you to say things that hurt your case
Call Attorney911 Immediately – 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll send preservation letters to protect critical evidence

Why College Station Victims Need Specialized Representation

Trucking accident cases are fundamentally different from car accident cases:

Higher Stakes: Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5,000,000 in insurance – far more than typical auto policies
Complex Regulations: Federal trucking regulations (FMCSA) create specific legal standards
Multiple Defendants: Multiple parties can share liability, requiring complex legal strategies
Aggressive Defense: Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that start protecting their interests immediately
Catastrophic Injuries: The injuries are often life-changing, requiring extensive future medical care

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience handling these complex cases. We’ve recovered millions for College Station trucking accident victims, and we know how to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Common Injuries in College Station Trucking Accidents

The injuries we see in College Station trucking accidents are often catastrophic:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

TBIs occur when the brain is violently impacted inside the skull. Symptoms can include:

Headaches and dizziness
Memory loss and confusion
Difficulty concentrating
Mood changes and depression
Sleep disturbances
Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
Speech difficulties

Severe TBIs can result in permanent cognitive impairment, requiring lifelong care.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Spinal cord damage can result in:

Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
Incomplete Injuries: Some nerve function remains
Complete Injuries: Total loss of sensation and movement

The lifetime cost of care for spinal cord injuries can exceed $5 million.

Amputations

Amputations can occur:

At the scene due to crushing injuries
During emergency extraction
Later due to infection or medical complications

The cost of prosthetics and rehabilitation can exceed $1 million over a lifetime.

Severe Burns

Burns occur from:

Fuel tank ruptures
Electrical fires
Chemical spills
Friction burns

Severe burns require multiple surgeries and can result in permanent disfigurement.

Internal Organ Damage

Common internal injuries include:

Liver lacerations
Spleen damage
Kidney injuries
Lung contusions
Internal bleeding

These injuries are life-threatening and require emergency surgery.

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can pursue wrongful death claims. Available damages include:

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

College Station-Specific Factors That Affect Your Case

Several factors unique to College Station can affect your trucking accident case:

Texas A&M University Traffic Patterns

The presence of Texas A&M University creates unique traffic patterns that can contribute to trucking accidents:

Student drivers who may be inexperienced or distracted
Game day traffic that creates congestion and increases accident risks
Construction zones around campus that can create hazardous conditions
Pedestrian and bicycle traffic that increases the risk of accidents

Local Weather Conditions

College Station’s weather can create dangerous driving conditions:

Heavy rain that reduces visibility and creates slippery roads
Fog that limits visibility, particularly in rural areas
High winds that can affect high-profile trailers
Extreme heat that can cause tire blowouts

Distribution Center Traffic

The distribution centers along FM 2818 generate significant truck traffic that contributes to accidents:

Congested loading areas where trucks maneuver in tight spaces
Peak delivery times that create rush hour conditions
Inexperienced drivers navigating complex loading docks

Rural Highway Risks

The rural highways around College Station present unique dangers:

Long stretches without services that can delay emergency response
Wildlife crossings that create sudden hazards
Limited cell service that can delay reporting
High speeds on straightaways that reduce reaction time

How We Prove Negligence in College Station Trucking Cases

Building a strong trucking accident case requires proving that the trucking company or driver was negligent. We use several strategies to establish liability:

FMCSA Regulation Violations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399) establish clear safety standards. Common violations we find in College Station cases include:

Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR § 395)
False Log Entries (49 CFR § 395.8)
Brake System Deficiencies (49 CFR § 393.48)
Cargo Securement Failures (49 CFR § 393.100-136)
Unqualified Drivers (49 CFR § 391)
Failure to Inspect (49 CFR § 396)

Electronic Evidence

Modern trucks are equipped with sophisticated electronic systems that record critical data:

ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, throttle position
ELD Data: Proves hours of service compliance
GPS Data: Shows route and speed history
Dashcam Footage: Provides visual evidence of the accident

Maintenance Records

We subpoena maintenance records to look for:

Deferred maintenance
Known defects that weren’t repaired
Improper repairs
Lack of required inspections

Driver Qualification Files

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

Employment application
Driving record
Medical certification
Drug test results
Training records

Missing or incomplete files can prove negligent hiring.

Accident Reconstruction

We work with expert accident reconstructionists who:

Analyze skid marks and debris patterns
Reconstruct the accident sequence
Determine vehicle speeds
Identify contributing factors

College Station Trucking Accident Case Results

While we can’t guarantee specific results, our experience handling College Station trucking cases gives us insight into potential case values. Recent trucking verdicts and settlements in Texas demonstrate what’s possible:

$730 Million – Landmark Texas trucking verdict (2021)
$150 Million – Texas trucking settlement (2022)
$90 Million – Houston trucking accident case
$37.5 Million – Texas trucking verdict (2024)
$35.5 Million – Texas trucking accident settlement

These results show what juries are willing to award when trucking companies are held accountable for their negligence.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your College Station Trucking Case

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team with the experience, resources, and determination to take on the trucking industry. Here’s why College Station victims choose Attorney911:

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998. Our team has handled cases against:

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

Federal Court Experience

We’re admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, which is crucial for interstate trucking cases that can be filed in federal court.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Our team includes an attorney who used to work for insurance companies. He knows exactly how they evaluate claims and what tactics they use to minimize payouts. This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage in negotiations.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions for College Station trucking accident victims. Our track record demonstrates our ability to secure maximum compensation for catastrophic injuries.

Local Knowledge

We know College Station’s roads, courts, and judges. Our local presence means we can respond quickly to preserve evidence and meet with you in person when needed.

Bilingual Services

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our staff includes Spanish-speaking case workers. We can communicate directly with Spanish-speaking clients without interpreters.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. We advance all costs of litigation, so there’s no financial risk to you.

College Station Trucking Accident FAQ

What should I do immediately after a trucking accident in College Station?

If you’re able, take these steps:

Call 911 and report the accident
Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
Document the scene with photos and video
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

Should I go to the hospital even if I feel okay?

Yes. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents, and many injuries (like internal bleeding or TBI) don’t show symptoms immediately. Getting checked out at a College Station hospital creates crucial medical documentation for your case.

What information should I collect at the 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

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

No. 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 an 18-wheeler accident attorney in College Station?

Immediately – within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence (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.

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

Multiple parties may be liable:

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)

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

Usually yes. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are responsible 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.

What is a “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. This data can show:

Speed before and during the crash
Brake application timing
Engine RPM and throttle position
Following distance
GPS location

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

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 College Station?

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 College Station?

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 College Station?

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 College Station?

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. 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.

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.

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.

College Station Trucking Accident Resources

Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers

Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – College Station: 700 Scott & White Dr, College Station, TX 77845
CHI St. Joseph Health Regional Hospital: 2801 Franciscan Dr, Bryan, TX 77802
Texas A&M University Health Science Center: 8441 Riverside Pkwy, Bryan, TX 77807

Local Law Enforcement Agencies

College Station Police Department: (979) 764-3600
Bryan Police Department: (979) 209-5300
Brazos County Sheriff’s Office: (979) 361-4900
Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): (979) 778-9500

Trucking Safety Resources

FMCSA Safety Measurement System: safer.fmcsa.dot.gov
Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): txdot.gov
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): nhtsa.gov

Legal Resources

State Bar of Texas: texasbar.com
Texas Court System: txcourts.gov
Brazos County District Clerk: brazoscountytx.gov

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in College Station, time is critical. Evidence is disappearing while you wait. The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of representation.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and start protecting your rights. Our College Station trucking accident attorneys work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.

“Every hour you wait, evidence in your College Station trucking accident case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. Call Attorney911 NOW at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence.”

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