18-Wheeler Accidents in Corpus Christi: Your Complete Legal Guide

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Corpus Christi, you’re facing one of the most traumatic experiences of your life. The aftermath of a trucking collision leaves victims with devastating injuries, overwhelming medical bills, and uncertainty about the future. At Attorney911, we know Corpus Christi’s highways and understand how trucking companies operate on these dangerous corridors. Our team has been fighting for Texas truck accident victims for over 25 years, and we’re ready to fight for you.

Why Corpus Christi Trucking Accidents Are Different

Corpus Christi sits at a critical intersection of major trucking routes that serve the Gulf Coast’s bustling ports, oil refineries, and industrial facilities. Our city’s unique geography and economic activity create specific risks that make 18-wheeler accidents particularly dangerous here.

The Trucking Corridors That Define Corpus Christi

Every day, thousands of commercial trucks travel through Corpus Christi on these high-risk routes:

• I-37: This critical north-south corridor connects Corpus Christi to San Antonio and serves as the primary route for trucks transporting goods to and from the Port of Corpus Christi. The stretch between Corpus Christi and Mathis is particularly hazardous due to heavy truck traffic and frequent congestion at the port access points.

• US-77/181: This major highway serves as a direct route to the Port of Corpus Christi and the city’s industrial facilities. The Harbor Bridge and associated construction zones create dangerous bottlenecks where trucks and passenger vehicles mix in close quarters.

• SH-35: Running parallel to the coast, this highway carries significant truck traffic serving the petrochemical plants and refineries in the area. The combination of heavy industrial trucks and local traffic creates unique hazards.

• SH-286: Known locally as the Crosstown Expressway, this route connects I-37 to the downtown area and port facilities. It’s a critical artery for local deliveries and port-bound traffic.

• Port Access Roads: The roads leading to and from the Port of Corpus Christi see some of the heaviest truck traffic in the region. These roads weren’t designed for the volume of trucks they now carry, creating dangerous conditions.

The Port of Corpus Christi – the fourth largest port in the United States by tonnage – generates massive truck traffic as goods are transferred between ships and trucks. This creates a constant flow of heavy vehicles through our city’s streets and highways.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Corpus Christi

Trucking accidents in Corpus Christi often result from a combination of factors unique to our region:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Corpus Christi’s position as a major port and industrial hub means many truckers are under intense pressure to meet tight delivery deadlines. The long hauls from Corpus Christi to San Antonio, Houston, and beyond create perfect conditions for driver fatigue.

Federal regulations limit truck drivers to:

• 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• A 14-hour on-duty window
• A 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
• 60/70 hour weekly limits

Despite these regulations, we frequently see drivers pushing beyond these limits to meet delivery schedules. The long stretches of I-37 and US-77/181 make it easy for fatigued drivers to lose focus.

Poor Vehicle Maintenance

The harsh coastal environment in Corpus Christi accelerates wear and tear on trucks. Salt air corrodes brake components, coastal humidity affects electrical systems, and the constant stop-and-go traffic at port access points puts extra strain on vehicles. Common maintenance issues we see include:

• Worn brake pads and shoes
• Improperly adjusted brakes
• Corroded brake lines
• Bald or underinflated tires
• Faulty lighting systems
• Worn suspension components

Improper Cargo Loading

The Port of Corpus Christi handles a diverse range of cargo, from petroleum products to wind turbine components. This creates unique loading challenges:

• Liquid cargo that can shift during transport
• Heavy equipment that requires specialized securement
• Hazardous materials that require additional precautions
• Oversized loads that affect vehicle stability

When cargo isn’t properly secured, it can shift during transit, causing rollovers or spills that create hazards for other vehicles.

Driver Distraction

With the proliferation of smartphones and in-cab technology, distracted driving has become a major concern. Corpus Christi truck drivers face additional distractions:

• GPS navigation in unfamiliar port areas
• Dispatch communications while driving
• Electronic logging devices that require attention
• Cell phone use while in heavy traffic

Speeding and Aggressive Driving

The pressure to meet delivery deadlines leads many truck drivers to speed, particularly on the open stretches of I-37. When large trucks exceed safe speeds, they become much harder to control, especially in the frequent wind conditions we experience along the coast.

The Unique Challenges of Corpus Christi’s Roads

Our city’s infrastructure presents specific challenges for truck drivers:

• Construction Zones: The ongoing Harbor Bridge replacement project and other infrastructure improvements create dangerous work zones where trucks and passenger vehicles mix in close quarters.

• Weather Conditions: Corpus Christi experiences sudden coastal storms, high winds, and fog that can create hazardous driving conditions. Trucks are particularly vulnerable to wind gusts due to their high profile.

• Traffic Congestion: The mix of local traffic, port-bound trucks, and industrial vehicles creates congestion that increases the risk of collisions.

• Road Design Issues: Many of our roads weren’t designed to handle the volume of truck traffic they now carry, leading to dangerous conditions at intersections and on-ramps.

The Catastrophic Injuries Corpus Christi Residents Face

The size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles means that trucking accidents in Corpus Christi often result in devastating injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

TBI is one of the most common and severe injuries we see in Corpus Christi trucking accidents. The extreme forces involved can cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull, leading to:

• Concussions (mild TBI)
• Moderate to severe brain injuries
• Cognitive impairment
• Memory loss
• Personality changes
• Permanent disability

Many TBI victims require lifelong care and rehabilitation. The lifetime cost of caring for a severe TBI victim can exceed $3 million.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

The spinal cord is particularly vulnerable in trucking accidents. Injuries can result in:

• Paraplegia (paralysis from the waist down)
• Quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs)
• Incomplete injuries with partial function
• Complete injuries with total loss of function

Spinal cord injuries often require extensive medical treatment, home modifications, and lifelong care. The lifetime cost of caring for a quadriplegic can exceed $5 million.

Amputations

The crushing forces in trucking accidents frequently lead to traumatic amputations or injuries so severe that surgical amputation is required. Amputations create significant challenges:

• Multiple surgeries
• Prosthetic limbs (which can cost $5,000-$50,000 each)
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Psychological trauma
• Career limitations

Severe Burns

Corpus Christi’s oil refineries and chemical plants mean that many trucks carry flammable materials. When accidents occur, they can result in severe burns:

• Thermal burns from fires
• Chemical burns from hazardous materials
• Electrical burns from damaged wiring
• Friction burns from road contact

Burn victims often require multiple skin graft surgeries and face lifelong scarring and disfigurement.

Internal Organ Damage

The blunt force trauma from trucking accidents can cause severe internal injuries:

• Liver lacerations
• Spleen damage
• Kidney injuries
• Lung contusions
• Internal bleeding

These injuries are particularly dangerous because they may not show immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Wrongful Death

Tragically, many Corpus Christi trucking accidents result in fatalities. When a loved one is killed in a trucking accident, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Corpus Christi Trucking Accident?

One of the most important aspects of trucking accident cases is that multiple parties can be held liable. Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve a web of responsibility. At Attorney911, we investigate every possible avenue of liability to maximize your compensation.

The Truck Driver

The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable for their negligent conduct, including:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, GPS, dispatch communications)
• Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
• Impaired driving (drugs or alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Violation of traffic laws

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets (highest insurance limits) and the most responsibility for safety. They can be held liable through:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

• The driver was an employee (not an independent contractor)
• The driver was acting within the scope of employment
• The driver was performing job duties when the accident occurred

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent Hiring: Failure to check the driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
• Negligent Training: Inadequate training on safety procedures, cargo securement, or hours of service regulations
• Negligent Supervision: Failure to monitor driver performance, ELD compliance, or safety violations
• Negligent Maintenance: Failure to maintain vehicles in safe operating condition
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service regulations

The Cargo Owner or Shipper

The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable for:

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose the hazardous nature of cargo
• Requiring overweight loading
• Pressuring the carrier to expedite delivery beyond safe limits
• Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics

The Cargo Loading Company

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

• Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
• Not training loaders on securement requirements

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

The companies that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for product defects:

• Design defects (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement)
• Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

Parts Manufacturers

Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for defective products:

• Defective brakes or brake components
• Defective tires causing blowouts
• Defective steering mechanisms
• Defective lighting components
• Defective coupling devices

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets may be liable for negligent repairs:

• Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
• Failure to identify critical safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard or wrong parts
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Freight Brokers

Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for negligent carrier selection:

• Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
• Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
• Failure to check carrier CSA scores
• Selecting the cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

The Truck Owner (If Different from the Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may have separate liability:

• Negligent entrustment of the vehicle
• Failure to maintain owned equipment
• Knowledge of the driver’s unfitness

Government Entities

Federal, state, or local government may be liable in limited circumstances:

• Dangerous road design that contributed to the accident
• Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
• Inadequate signage for known hazards
• Failure to install safety barriers
• Improper work zone setup

The Evidence That Wins Corpus Christi Trucking Cases

Evidence in trucking accident cases disappears quickly. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act fast, critical evidence will be lost forever.

Electronic Data That Must Be Preserved Immediately

ECM/Black Box Data:
Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that continuously record operational data. This data can show:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Throttle position
• Engine RPM
• Cruise control status
• Fault codes that may reveal mechanical issues

ELD Data:
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.

GPS and Telematics Data:
This data shows:

• The truck’s location history
• Speed throughout the trip
• Route taken
• Driver behavior (hard braking, rapid acceleration)

Dashcam Footage:
Many trucks are equipped with dashcams that record:

• Video of the road ahead
• Some record the cab interior
• Audio recordings of driver communications

Driver and Company Records

Driver Qualification File:
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

Hours of Service Records:
ELD data and supporting documents that show:

• When the driver was on duty
• When the driver was driving
• When breaks were taken
• Whether HOS regulations were violated

Maintenance Records:
Documentation of all vehicle maintenance and repairs, including:

• Brake inspections and adjustments
• Tire replacements and rotations
• Lighting system maintenance
• General vehicle upkeep

Inspection Reports:

• Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
• Annual inspection records
• Out-of-service orders and repairs

Drug and Alcohol Test Results:

• Pre-employment test results
• Random test results
• Post-accident test results
• Reasonable suspicion test results

Physical Evidence

The Truck and Trailer:
The physical vehicles must be preserved for inspection. They can reveal:

• Mechanical defects
• Brake system condition
• Tire condition
• Lighting system functionality
• Cargo securement issues

Failed Components:
Any failed parts (brakes, tires, steering components) must be preserved for expert analysis.

Cargo and Securement Devices:
The cargo and the devices used to secure it can reveal whether proper securement procedures were followed.

Scene Evidence

Photographs and Video:

• Vehicle damage
• Accident scene
• Road conditions
• Skid marks
• Debris patterns
• Traffic control devices

Police Reports:

• Officer’s observations
• Citations issued
• Witness statements
• Diagram of the accident scene

Witness Statements:
Eyewitness accounts of what happened can be crucial, especially in disputed liability cases.

How Attorney911 Fights for Corpus Christi Trucking Accident Victims

When you choose Attorney911, you’re getting a team that knows Corpus Christi’s trucking corridors and understands how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable. Our approach is aggressive, thorough, and designed to maximize your compensation.

Immediate Evidence Preservation

Within hours of being retained, we send spoliation letters to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties. These formal legal notices demand preservation of all evidence related to the accident, including:

• ECM/Black Box data
• ELD records
• Driver Qualification Files
• Maintenance records
• Inspection reports
• Dispatch records
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Cell phone records
• GPS and telematics data
• Dashcam footage
• The physical truck and trailer

We know that this data can be overwritten or deleted quickly, so we act fast to preserve it before it’s lost forever.

Comprehensive Investigation

Our investigation process is designed to uncover every possible avenue of liability:

Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)

• Accept your case and send preservation letters
• Deploy accident reconstruction experts to the scene if needed
• Obtain the police crash report
• Photograph your injuries with medical documentation
• Photograph all vehicles before they’re repaired or scrapped
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

• Subpoena ELD/black box data downloads
• Request the driver’s paper log books (backup documentation)
• Obtain the complete Driver Qualification File
• Request all truck maintenance and inspection records
• Obtain the carrier’s CSA safety scores and inspection history
• Order the driver’s complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
• Subpoena the driver’s cell phone records
• Obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules

Phase 3: Expert Analysis

• Accident reconstruction specialist creates a crash analysis
• Medical experts establish causation and future care needs
• Vocational experts calculate lost earning capacity
• Economic experts determine the present value of all damages
• Life care planners develop comprehensive care plans for catastrophic injuries
• FMCSA regulation experts identify all violations

Phase 4: Litigation Strategy

• File a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires
• Pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
• Depose the truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, and maintenance personnel
• Build your case for trial while negotiating settlement from a position of strength
• Prepare every case as if it’s going to trial to create leverage in negotiations

Proving Negligence Through FMCSA Violations

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399) establish the safety standards that all trucking companies must follow. When we find violations of these regulations, we can prove negligence and hold the trucking company accountable.

Common FMCSA Violations We Find in Corpus Christi Cases:

Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395):

• Driving more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• Driving beyond the 14-hour on-duty window
• Failing to take the required 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
• Exceeding the 60/70 hour weekly limits
• Falsifying ELD or paper log records

Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391):

• Hiring drivers without proper CDLs
• Failing to conduct background checks
• Hiring drivers with poor safety records
• Failing to maintain Driver Qualification Files
• Allowing drivers to operate without valid medical certificates

Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396):

• Failure to conduct required inspections
• Deferred maintenance on critical systems
• Improper brake adjustments
• Worn or defective tires
• Non-functioning lighting systems

Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR Part 393):

• Inadequate tiedowns
• Improper load distribution
• Failure to use blocking or bracing
• Overloading vehicles beyond weight ratings

Drug and Alcohol Violations (49 CFR Part 382):

• Drivers operating under the influence
• Failure to conduct required drug and alcohol testing
• Allowing drivers with positive test results to continue operating

Holding All Liable Parties Accountable

We don’t just pursue the truck driver – we identify and pursue claims against every party that contributed to the accident. This comprehensive approach maximizes your compensation and ensures that all responsible parties are held accountable.

Fighting Insurance Company Tactics

Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. We use this insider knowledge to counter their tactics and fight for maximum compensation.

Common Insurance Tactics and Our Counter-Strategies:

Preparing for Trial

While most cases settle before trial, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach creates leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready if the case does go to court.

Our trial preparation includes:

• Developing a compelling case narrative
• Preparing expert witnesses
• Creating demonstrative exhibits
• Conducting mock trials
• Preparing you to testify effectively
• Anticipating and countering defense arguments

Corpus Christi Trucking Accident Case Results

While we can’t guarantee specific results, our firm has a proven track record of securing significant compensation for trucking accident victims. Here are some examples of results we’ve achieved for our clients:

“$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 families in trucking-related wrongful death cases”

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998 and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements. Our team’s experience includes handling complex trucking cases against major corporations like Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS.

What to Do After a Corpus Christi Trucking Accident

If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Corpus Christi, taking the right steps immediately can make a significant difference in your case:

1. Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured.

2. Seek Medical Attention: Adrenaline can mask pain after traumatic accidents. Get checked out at a Corpus Christi hospital or trauma center. Common facilities include:

   • Christus Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi – Shoreline
   • Christus Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi – South
   • Corpus Christi Medical Center – Bay Area
   • Driscoll Children’s Hospital (for pediatric injuries)

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

   • All vehicle damage (truck and your vehicle)
   • The accident scene, including road conditions and skid marks
   • Your injuries
   • The truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company information
   • Any visible cargo or securement issues

4. Get Information: Collect the following from all involved parties:

   • Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
   • Trucking company name and contact information
   • Insurance information
   • Witness names and contact information

5. Don’t Give Statements: Do not give recorded statements to any insurance company without consulting an attorney first.

6. Contact Attorney911 Immediately: Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. The sooner we get involved, the better we can protect your rights and preserve evidence.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Corpus Christi Trucking Accident Case?

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team that will fight aggressively for your rights. Here’s why Corpus Christi residents choose Attorney911:

25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He has recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for clients suffering catastrophic injuries. His experience includes complex trucking cases against major corporations.

Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court admission is critical for handling interstate trucking cases, which often involve federal regulations and can be filed in federal court.

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. He spent years working for a national defense firm, giving us insider knowledge of their tactics. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

Deep Familiarity with Corpus Christi’s Trucking Corridors

We know Corpus Christi’s highways, weigh stations, distribution centers, and accident patterns. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case and negotiating with insurance companies.

Comprehensive Understanding of FMCSA Regulations

We have a comprehensive understanding of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399). We know how to use these regulations to prove negligence and hold trucking companies accountable.

Experience Holding Trucking Companies Accountable

We have extensive experience holding trucking companies accountable for:

• Negligent hiring of unsafe drivers
• Negligent training that fails to teach safety procedures
• Negligent supervision that allows safety violations
• Negligent maintenance that leads to equipment failures

Proven Track Record of Results

Our firm has recovered over $50 million for clients across all practice areas. We have secured significant verdicts and settlements in complex trucking cases, including cases against major corporations like Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS.

Compassionate Representation

We understand that a trucking accident changes your life in an instant. We treat every client like family and fight aggressively for the compensation you deserve. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your questions and address your concerns.

Contingency Fee Representation

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation, so you never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

Bilingual Services

Corpus Christi has a significant Hispanic population, and many trucking accident victims speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español.

Corpus Christi Trucking Accident FAQ

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Corpus Christi, take these steps immediately if you’re able:

1. Call 911 and report the accident
2. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
3. Document the scene with photos and video if possible
4. Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
5. Collect witness contact information
6. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
7. 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. Corpus Christi hospitals and trauma centers 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 in Corpus Christi?

Document everything possible:

• Truck and trailer license plates
• DOT number (on the 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 an 18-wheeler accident attorney in Corpus Christi?

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 Corpus Christi?

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 the 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 as long as you were not more than 50% at fault. 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 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 an airplane’s black box 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 Corpus Christi?

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 Corpus Christi?

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 Corpus Christi?

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 Corpus Christi?

The statute of limitations for personal injury cases 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. 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.

Corpus Christi Trucking Accident Resources

Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers

• Christus Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi – Shoreline
  600 Elizabeth St, Corpus Christi, TX 78404
  (361) 881-3000

• Christus Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi – South
  5950 Saratoga Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78414
  (361) 985-5000

• Corpus Christi Medical Center – Bay Area
  7101 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78412
  (361) 761-1200

• Driscoll Children’s Hospital
  3533 S Alameda St, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
  (361) 694-5000

Local Law Enforcement Agencies

• Corpus Christi Police Department
  321 John Sartain St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  (361) 886-2600

• Nueces County Sheriff’s Office
  901 Leopard St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  (361) 887-2222

• Texas Department of Public Safety – Corpus Christi
  5802 Weber Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78413
  (361) 851-2000

Local Courts

• Nueces County Courthouse
  901 Leopard St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  (361) 888-0580

• 148th District Court (Civil Cases)
  Nueces County Courthouse, 901 Leopard St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

• 105th District Court (Civil Cases)
  Nueces County Courthouse, 901 Leopard St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

• County Court at Law No. 1 (Civil Cases)
  Nueces County Courthouse, 901 Leopard St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

Local Trucking Industry Resources

• Port of Corpus Christi
  222 Power St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  (361) 882-5633
  www.portofcc.com

• Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Authority
  602 N Staples St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  (361) 289-2600
  www.ccrta.org

• Texas Department of Transportation – Corpus Christi District
  1701 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78416
  (361) 808-2300
  www.txdot.gov

Contact Attorney911 for Your Corpus Christi Trucking Accident Case

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