18-Wheeler Accidents in Crockett, Texas: Your Complete Legal Guide

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Crockett, Texas, you’re likely facing overwhelming challenges. The aftermath of a commercial truck collision can be devastating, with severe injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about your future. At Attorney911, we understand the unique complexities of trucking accidents in Crockett and throughout Houston County. Our team, led by managing partner Ralph Manginello with over 25 years of experience, is here to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Why Crockett Trucking Accidents Are Different

Crockett sits at the intersection of several critical transportation routes that serve East Texas and beyond. The city’s location along US Highway 287 and proximity to Interstate 45 creates a unique trucking environment where:

• Local timber and agriculture industries generate heavy truck traffic
• Oil and gas operations in nearby counties increase hazardous material transport
• Long-haul truckers pass through on their way to major distribution centers
• Small-town roads weren’t designed for modern 80,000-pound commercial vehicles

This combination creates specific risks for Crockett residents and visitors. When accidents happen here, they often involve complex liability issues, multiple responsible parties, and serious injuries that require specialized legal expertise.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Crockett

Our experience handling trucking cases in Crockett and Houston County has revealed several recurring causes of commercial vehicle accidents:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Truck drivers passing through Crockett often push their limits to meet tight delivery deadlines. Federal regulations limit drivers to:

• 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-hour on-duty window from first coming on duty
• 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-hour weekly limits with 34-hour restarts

Despite these rules, we frequently see drivers in Crockett accidents who have violated hours of service regulations. Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) now make it harder to falsify logs, but some drivers and companies still find ways to circumvent the rules.

Case Example: We recently handled a case where a driver passing through Crockett on US 287 had been on duty for 18 hours straight. His ELD showed he had falsified his logs to hide the violation. When he fell asleep at the wheel near the intersection with FM 2022, his truck crossed the center line and struck a family’s minivan head-on. The resulting injuries were catastrophic.

Improper Maintenance and Equipment Failures

Crockett’s mix of local and long-haul trucking means vehicles may not receive proper maintenance before passing through our area. Common maintenance-related accidents include:

• Brake failures on the hilly sections of US 287
• Tire blowouts from underinflation or worn tread
• Lighting failures making trucks invisible at night
• Coupling device failures causing trailer separation

Federal regulations (49 CFR § 396) require systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of all commercial vehicles. When trucking companies cut corners on maintenance to save money, Crockett residents pay the price.

Distracted Driving

Cell phone use, GPS devices, and in-cab electronics distract truck drivers passing through Crockett. Federal regulations (49 CFR § 392.82) specifically prohibit:

• Using hand-held mobile phones while driving
• Texting while driving
• Reaching for devices in a way that requires leaving the seated position

Despite these prohibitions, we continue to see distracted driving as a major factor in Crockett trucking accidents.

Improper Loading and Cargo Securement

Crockett’s agriculture and timber industries mean many local trucks carry specialized cargo. When loads aren’t properly secured according to federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136), accidents can occur from:

• Shifting loads that destabilize the vehicle
• Falling cargo that strikes other vehicles
• Overweight loads that exceed vehicle capacity
• Improperly balanced loads that affect handling

Wide Turn Accidents at Crockett Intersections

Crockett’s downtown area features several tight intersections where wide-turn accidents frequently occur. When 18-wheelers make right turns, they often swing wide to the left first, creating a dangerous gap that smaller vehicles may try to enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing the vehicle that entered the gap.

Common Crockett locations for wide-turn accidents:

• US 287 and Goliad Avenue
• US 287 and 3rd Street
• Loop 304 and FM 2022
• FM 227 and US 287

Rear-End Collisions on US 287

The stop-and-go traffic patterns on US 287 through Crockett create frequent rear-end collision opportunities. When an 80,000-pound truck fails to stop in time, the results are often catastrophic. These accidents commonly occur at:

• Traffic signals in downtown Crockett
• Railroad crossings
• Areas where speed limits drop suddenly
• Construction zones

Underride Accidents

One of the most deadly types of trucking accidents, underride collisions occur when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler. These accidents often result in decapitation or severe head and neck injuries. While rear underride guards are required by federal law (49 CFR § 393.86), side underride guards are not, making side impacts particularly dangerous.

Catastrophic Injuries from Crockett Trucking Accidents

The physics of trucking accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm rather than the exception in Crockett:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The force of impact can cause the brain to collide with the inside of the skull, resulting in cognitive impairments, memory loss, and personality changes.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in paraplegia or quadriplegia, requiring lifelong care and assistance.
• Amputations: Severe crushing injuries may require surgical amputation of limbs.
• Severe Burns: Fuel tank ruptures and fires can cause third-degree burns requiring skin grafts and extensive rehabilitation.
• Internal Organ Damage: The force of impact can rupture organs, causing internal bleeding and requiring emergency surgery.
• Wrongful Death: Tragically, many Crockett trucking accidents result in fatalities, leaving families to cope with devastating loss.

Who’s Responsible for Your Crockett Trucking Accident?

One of the most complex aspects of trucking accident cases is determining all potentially liable parties. In Crockett accidents, we often find multiple defendants who share responsibility:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, texting)
• Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
• Impaired driving (drugs or alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Traffic law violations

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets and highest insurance coverage. They can be liable for:

Vicarious Liability:

• The driver was an employee acting within the scope of employment

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent Hiring: Failing to properly screen drivers for safety records or qualifications
• Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training or hours of service training
• Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance and compliance
• Negligent Maintenance: Failing to properly maintain vehicles
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service regulations

Cargo Owners and Shippers

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

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
• Requiring overweight loading
• Pressuring carriers to expedite beyond safe limits

Cargo Loading Companies

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

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

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for design or manufacturing defects such as:

• Brake system failures
• Tire defects causing blowouts
• Steering mechanism failures
• Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)
• Fuel tank placement that increases fire risk

Parts Manufacturers

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

• Defective brake components
• Defective tires causing blowouts
• Defective steering mechanisms
• Defective lighting components

Maintenance Companies

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

• 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 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

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, government entities may be liable for:

• 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

Critical Evidence in Crockett Trucking Cases

Evidence in trucking accident cases disappears quickly. In Crockett, we’ve seen how trucking companies and their rapid-response teams work to protect their interests within hours of an accident. That’s why immediate action is essential.

Electronic Data That Can Be Lost Forever

ECM/Black Box Data:
Commercial trucks have electronic systems that continuously record operational data. 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

ELD (Electronic Logging Device) Data:
ELDs record driver hours of service and prove whether the driver violated federal rest requirements. This data is critical for proving fatigue-related accidents.

Dashcam Footage:
Many trucks have forward-facing and cab-facing cameras that record the accident and driver behavior. This footage is often overwritten within days.

GPS and Telematics Data:
This data shows the truck’s route, speed, and location history.

Records That Must Be Preserved

Driver Qualification File:
Federal regulations require 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

Maintenance Records:
Records of all inspections, repairs, and maintenance must be preserved. These records can show deferred maintenance or known defects.

Hours of Service Records:
ELD data and supporting documents must be preserved to prove compliance with federal regulations.

Dispatch Records:
These records show the driver’s schedule, route, and any pressure to meet tight deadlines.

Drug and Alcohol Test Results:
Results of pre-employment and random drug/alcohol tests must be preserved.

Physical Evidence That Disappears

The Truck and Trailer:
Vehicles are often repaired or sold quickly after accidents. We work to preserve the vehicle for expert inspection.

Failed Components:
Tires, brakes, and other failed components may be discarded or replaced.

Cargo and Securement Devices:
The cargo and how it was secured may be altered or removed.

Why You Need a Crockett Trucking Accident Attorney Immediately

Evidence Preservation Is Time-Sensitive

In Crockett trucking cases, evidence disappears fast:

• ECM/Black Box Data: Can be overwritten in 30 days or with new driving events
• ELD Data: May be retained only 6 months
• Dashcam Footage: Often deleted within 7-14 days
• Surveillance Video: Business cameras typically overwrite in 7-30 days
• Physical Evidence: Vehicles may be repaired, sold, or scrapped
• Witness Memory: Fades significantly within weeks

At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained. This legal notice demands that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. Destroying evidence after receiving our letter can result in serious legal consequences.

Insurance Companies Are Already Working Against You

Before the ambulance even arrives at a Crockett accident scene, the trucking company’s insurance team is already working to protect their interests. They will:

• Send investigators to the scene
• Interview witnesses before you can
• Pressure the driver to give statements
• Offer quick, lowball settlements
• Try to shift blame to you

Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters operate. He understands their tactics because he used them himself when he worked for the other side. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.

Trucking Companies Have Teams of Lawyers

Major trucking companies have in-house legal teams and relationships with top defense firms. When you’re injured in a Crockett trucking accident, you’re not just fighting the driver—you’re fighting an entire corporate legal machine.

At Attorney911, we level the playing field. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience fighting trucking companies in Texas courtrooms. We have the resources, expertise, and determination to take on even the largest corporate defendants.

How We Handle Crockett Trucking Accident Cases

Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)

• Accept your case and send preservation letters the same day
• 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 are repaired or scrapped
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

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

Expert Analysis

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

Litigation Strategy

• File lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires (2 years in Texas)
• Pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
• Depose the truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, maintenance personnel
• Build your case for trial while negotiating settlement from a position of strength
• Prepare every case as if going to trial (this creates leverage in negotiations)

Common FMCSA Violations in Crockett Trucking Accidents

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations exist to protect the public from unsafe trucking practices. When these regulations are violated, accidents often result. In Crockett cases, we frequently find:

Hours of Service Violations

• Driving beyond the 11-hour limit
• Exceeding the 14-hour on-duty window
• Failing to take required 30-minute breaks
• Exceeding weekly 60/70-hour limits
• Falsifying ELD or paper log records

Driver Qualification Violations

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

Vehicle Maintenance Violations

• Failing to conduct required inspections
• Ignoring known defects
• Deferring critical repairs
• Using worn or defective components
• Failing to maintain proper brake adjustment

Cargo Securement Violations

• Inadequate tiedowns
• Improper load distribution
• Exceeding weight ratings
• Failing to use proper blocking/bracing
• Not re-inspecting cargo during trips

Drug and Alcohol Violations

• Allowing drivers to operate under the influence
• Failing to conduct required drug/alcohol testing
• Ignoring previous positive test results
• Allowing drivers to operate while taking impairing medications

What Your Crockett Trucking Accident Case Might Be Worth

Case values depend on many factors specific to your situation. However, trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical passenger vehicles, allowing for larger potential recoveries. In Crockett cases, we’ve seen:

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

• Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to injury and recovery
• Lost Earning Capacity: Reduction in future earning ability
• Property Damage: Vehicle repair or replacement
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications
• Life Care Costs: Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain from injuries
• Mental Anguish: Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression
• Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in activities
• Disfigurement: Scarring, visible injuries
• Loss of Consortium: Impact on marriage/family relationships
• Physical Impairment: Reduced physical capabilities

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence)

Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company or driver acted with:

• Gross negligence
• Willful misconduct
• Conscious indifference to safety
• Fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence)

Texas Damage Caps:

• Economic Damages: No cap
• Non-Economic Damages: No cap for most personal injury cases
• Punitive Damages: Greater of (2x economic + non-economic capped at $750,000) OR $200,000

Recent Trucking Verdicts and Settlements

While every case is unique, recent verdicts demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

• $730 Million (2021, Texas): Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman; $480M compensatory + $250M punitive
• $150 Million (2022, Texas): Werner settlement for two children killed on I-30
• $462 Million (2024, Missouri): Underride decapitation case
• $160 Million (2024, Alabama): Rollover left driver quadriplegic
• $141.5 Million (2023, Florida): Defunct carrier case

These verdicts show that juries will hold trucking companies accountable when they prioritize profits over safety. The key is having an experienced Crockett trucking accident attorney who knows how to build a compelling case and present it effectively.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Crockett Trucking Case

Local Knowledge of Crockett and Houston County

We know Crockett’s roads, intersections, and trucking patterns. We understand the unique challenges of trucking cases in our community, from the timber industry routes to the oil field traffic patterns. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.

Proven Track Record Against Trucking Companies

Our firm has successfully litigated against major commercial carriers including:

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

Federal Court Experience

With admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, we can handle interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court. This is critical for cases involving carriers from other states.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña worked for years at a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

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

• $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

Comprehensive Resources

We have the financial resources to:

• Hire top accident reconstruction experts
• Retain medical specialists
• Conduct thorough investigations
• Take your case to trial if necessary

Compassionate Representation

We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a trucking accident takes on you and your family. We treat every client like family, providing the personal attention and support you need during this difficult time.

No Fee Unless We Win

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.

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Crockett

Immediate Steps (At the Scene)

1. Call 911 and report the accident
2. Seek medical attention immediately, 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 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911

In the Days Following the Accident

1. Follow all medical advice and attend all appointments
2. Document your injuries with photos as they heal
3. Keep a pain journal describing your symptoms and limitations
4. Save all medical bills and receipts
5. Do not post about your accident on social media
6. Avoid discussing your case with anyone except your attorney
7. Stay in regular contact with your Attorney911 legal team

What NOT to Do

• Don’t give recorded statements to insurance adjusters
• Don’t sign any documents from the trucking company or their insurer
• Don’t accept quick settlement offers without consulting an attorney
• Don’t post about your accident on social media
• Don’t delay seeking medical treatment
• Don’t try to handle the case yourself

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockett Trucking Accidents

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

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

• 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 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911

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. Crockett Medical Center and other local hospitals 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 Crockett?

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 an 18-wheeler accident attorney in Crockett?

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.

What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?

A spoliation letter is a legal notice demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. This includes ECM/black box data, ELD logs, maintenance records, driver files, and more. Sending this letter immediately puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.

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

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 Crockett?

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 Crockett?

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 Crockett?

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 Crockett?

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. 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 an 18-wheeler accident in Crockett, Texas, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every hour. The trucking company’s insurance team is already working to protect their interests – you need someone protecting yours.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. Our Crockett trucking accident attorneys are available 24/7 to help you understand your rights and begin building your case. We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win.

Hablamos Español. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. If you or your family speak Spanish as a primary language, we can communicate directly in your preferred language.

Don’t let the trucking company take advantage of you. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.