18-Wheeler Accidents in City of Dean: Your Guide to Justice and Compensation

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in City of Dean, you’re likely facing overwhelming challenges. The physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial strain can feel insurmountable. At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through, and we’re here to help. Our team of experienced trucking accident attorneys has been fighting for victims like you across Texas for over 25 years, and we’re ready to put that experience to work for your case.

Why City of Dean’s Highways Are Particularly Dangerous for Trucking Accidents

City of Dean sits at a critical juncture in Clay County, where rural roads meet major transportation corridors. The area’s unique geography and traffic patterns create specific risks for commercial truck accidents:

• High-speed rural highways where trucks travel at maximum speeds with limited enforcement
• Intersections with inadequate signage that don’t properly warn truck drivers of upcoming turns or stops
• Seasonal agricultural traffic that mixes with commercial freight, creating unexpected slowdowns
• Limited truck parking facilities, forcing drivers to park in unsafe locations
• Weather conditions that can change rapidly, creating hazardous road surfaces
• Local industry traffic from nearby facilities that adds to highway congestion

These factors combine to make City of Dean’s roads particularly dangerous for trucking accidents, especially during peak travel times and when drivers are fatigued or distracted.

Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents We See in City of Dean

Every year, we handle numerous trucking accident cases in City of Dean and throughout Clay County. The most common types of accidents we see include:

Jackknife Accidents

When a truck’s trailer swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the cab, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic. These are particularly common on City of Dean’s rural highways where sudden braking occurs due to wildlife crossings or unexpected obstacles.

Rollover Accidents

Trucks can roll over when taking curves too fast, especially on rural roads where speed limits may be higher than safe for large vehicles. Improperly loaded cargo significantly increases rollover risk.

Underride Collisions

When a smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or death. These accidents are especially deadly on City of Dean’s high-speed roads where vehicles travel at highway speeds.

Rear-End Collisions

Due to their massive weight, 18-wheelers require significantly longer stopping distances. When truck drivers follow too closely or fail to react in time, devastating rear-end collisions occur.

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Trucks need extra space to make turns, often swinging wide to the left before making a right turn. Other vehicles that try to pass on the right can be crushed.

Blind Spot Accidents

Trucks have large blind spots (No-Zones) where smaller vehicles disappear from view. Accidents happen when trucks change lanes without seeing vehicles in these blind spots.

Tire Blowouts

City of Dean’s hot climate and long stretches of highway can cause tire failures, leading to loss of control. Improper maintenance or overloading increases this risk.

Brake Failures

Poorly maintained brake systems can fail, especially on long descents or during sudden stops. This is a particular concern on rural roads with varying elevation.

Cargo Spills

Improperly secured cargo can shift or spill, causing accidents and hazards for other motorists. This is especially dangerous when hazardous materials are involved.

Head-On Collisions

When trucks cross into oncoming traffic, often due to driver fatigue, distraction, or impairment. These are among the deadliest accidents on City of Dean’s two-lane highways.

Why These Accidents Happen: The Real Causes

At Attorney911, we’ve seen firsthand how trucking companies cut corners to maximize profits, often at the expense of safety. The most common causes of 18-wheeler accidents in City of Dean include:

Driver Fatigue

Federal regulations limit truck drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, with a 14-hour on-duty window. Yet we consistently find violations in City of Dean cases:

• Drivers falsifying logbooks to hide extra driving hours
• Companies pressuring drivers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules
• Drivers working second jobs during their mandatory rest periods
• Medical conditions like sleep apnea going undiagnosed and untreated

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 395 – Hours of Service

Distracted Driving

Truck drivers face numerous distractions that can lead to accidents on City of Dean’s highways:

• Using cell phones or tablets while driving
• Eating or drinking behind the wheel
• Adjusting GPS or dispatch systems
• Reading paperwork or maps
• Watching videos or using social media

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 392.82 – Mobile Phone Use

Improper Maintenance

Trucking companies are required to systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles. Yet we frequently find maintenance records showing:

• Brake systems not properly adjusted or repaired
• Tires worn beyond legal limits
• Lighting systems not functioning
• Steering components failing
• Suspension systems in disrepair

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 396 – Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo

Federal regulations require proper cargo securement to prevent shifting during transit. We often find:

• Insufficient tiedowns for the cargo weight
• Improper load distribution causing instability
• Failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats
• Overweight vehicles exceeding legal limits
• Hazardous materials not properly contained

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 393.100-136 – Cargo Securement

Negligent Hiring and Training

Trucking companies must ensure their drivers are properly qualified. We frequently uncover:

• Hiring drivers with poor safety records
• Failing to verify previous employment history
• Not conducting proper background checks
• Inadequate training on safety procedures
• Failing to monitor driver performance

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 391 – Driver Qualification

Impaired Driving

Despite strict regulations, we still encounter cases where drivers operate under the influence:

• Alcohol use within 4 hours of driving
• Illegal drug use
• Misuse of prescription medications
• Failure to submit to required drug/alcohol testing

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 392.4/5 – Drug and Alcohol Use

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in City of Dean Trucking Accidents

The size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles means trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when the brain is jolted or penetrated, causing damage. In trucking accidents, we see:

• Mild TBI (Concussion): Headaches, confusion, dizziness, memory problems
• Moderate TBI: Extended unconsciousness, cognitive deficits
• Severe TBI: Permanent disability, coma, or vegetative state

Lifetime Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis:

• Paraplegia: Loss of function in the lower body
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
• Incomplete Injuries: Some nerve function remains

Lifetime Costs:

• Paraplegia: $1.1 million to $2.5 million+
• Quadriplegia: $3.5 million to $5 million+

Amputations

Crushing injuries from trucking accidents often require surgical amputation:

• Traumatic amputations at the scene
• Surgical amputations due to severe damage
• Multiple amputations in severe cases

Ongoing Needs: Prosthetics ($5,000-$50,000 each), rehabilitation, psychological counseling

Severe Burns

Trucking accidents often result in fires, causing:

• First-degree burns (superficial)
• Second-degree burns (partial thickness)
• Third-degree burns (full thickness)
• Fourth-degree burns (to bone/muscle)

Treatment: Multiple surgeries, skin grafts, long-term rehabilitation

Internal Organ Damage

The forces involved in trucking accidents can cause:

• Liver lacerations or rupture
• Spleen damage requiring removal
• Kidney injuries
• Lung contusions or pneumothorax
• Internal bleeding

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents result in fatalities, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims for:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses before death

Who Can Be Held Liable in Your City of Dean Trucking Accident

One of the most important aspects of trucking accident cases is identifying ALL potentially liable parties. Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple responsible parties:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be liable for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, etc.)
• 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 can be liable through:

Vicarious Liability: When the driver was acting within the scope of employment

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent hiring (failing to check driver’s background)
• Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
• Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
• Negligent maintenance (failing to maintain vehicles)
• Negligent scheduling (pressuring drivers to violate HOS)

The Cargo Owner/Shipper

The company that owns the cargo may be liable for:

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

The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to train loaders on securement requirements

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for:

• Design defects in vehicle systems
• Manufacturing defects in components
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective safety systems

Parts Manufacturers

Companies that manufacture specific parts may be liable for:

• Defective brakes or brake components
• Defective tires
• Defective steering mechanisms
• Defective lighting components

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers 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

Freight Brokers

Freight brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

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

The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

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

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

Government Entities

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

• Dangerous road design
• Failure to maintain roads
• Inadequate signage
• Failure to install safety barriers

Important Note: Government liability is limited by sovereign immunity and often has strict notice requirements and short deadlines.

The Evidence We Gather in City of Dean Trucking Cases

The key to winning your trucking accident case lies in the evidence. At Attorney911, we leave no stone unturned in gathering and preserving critical evidence:

Electronic Data

ECM/Black Box Data: Records operational data including:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Throttle position
• Following distance
• GPS location

ELD (Electronic Logging Device) Data: Federally mandated records showing:

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

Dashcam Footage: Video evidence from:

• Forward-facing cameras
• Cab-facing cameras
• 360-degree camera systems

GPS/Telematics Data: Real-time tracking showing:

• Route history
• Speed patterns
• Driver behavior

Driver and Company Records

Driver Qualification File: Contains:

• Employment application
• Driving record
• Medical certification
• Drug test results
• Training records

Hours of Service Records: Showing:

• Driving time
• On-duty time
• Rest periods
• Compliance with federal regulations

Maintenance Records: Documenting:

• Inspection reports
• Repair history
• Brake adjustments
• Tire replacements
• Parts used

Dispatch Records: Including:

• Trip assignments
• Delivery schedules
• Communications with driver
• Route information

Drug and Alcohol Test Results: Showing:

• Pre-employment tests
• Random tests
• Post-accident tests
• Reasonable suspicion tests

Physical Evidence

The Truck and Trailer: We inspect for:

• Brake condition
• Tire condition
• Lighting functionality
• Cargo securement
• Structural damage

Failed Components: We preserve for analysis:

• Tires that failed
• Brake components
• Steering parts
• Coupling devices

Cargo and Securement Devices: We examine:

• Tiedowns used
• Blocking and bracing
• Load distribution
• Weight compliance

Scene Evidence

Photographs and Video: We document:

• Vehicle damage
• Skid marks
• Road conditions
• Traffic signals
• Weather conditions

Accident Reconstruction: We work with experts to:

• Determine vehicle speeds
• Analyze braking distances
• Reconstruct the accident sequence
• Identify contributing factors

Witness Statements: We collect:

• Driver statements
• Passenger statements
• Independent witness accounts
• First responder observations

Medical Evidence

Medical Records: Documenting:

• Initial treatment
• Diagnostic tests
• Surgical procedures
• Rehabilitation
• Ongoing care needs

Expert Medical Testimony: Explaining:

• Injury causation
• Treatment necessity
• Long-term prognosis
• Future care needs

Why Time Is Critical: The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears quickly. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. At Attorney911, we act fast to preserve critical evidence before it’s lost forever.

What Can Disappear and When

Our Immediate Action Plan

When you call Attorney911 after a trucking accident in City of Dean, here’s what we do immediately:

1. Send Spoliation Letters

   • Formal legal notice demanding preservation of all evidence
   • Sent to trucking company, insurer, and all potentially liable parties
   • Creates legal consequences for destroying evidence

2. Demand Electronic Data Preservation

   • ECM/Black Box data
   • ELD records
   • GPS/Telematics data
   • Dashcam footage
   • Cell phone records

3. Secure Physical Evidence

   • Demand the truck and trailer be preserved
   • Arrange for inspection before repairs
   • Preserve failed components for analysis

4. Gather Scene Evidence

   • Visit the accident scene
   • Photograph road conditions
   • Document skid marks and debris
   • Canvass for surveillance cameras

5. Interview Witnesses

   • Identify all witnesses
   • Obtain statements before memories fade
   • Preserve contact information

6. Obtain Official Reports

   • Police accident reports
   • 911 call recordings
   • Fire department reports
   • EMS records

The City of Dean Legal Landscape: What You Need to Know

City of Dean operates under Texas law, which has specific rules that affect your trucking accident case:

Statute of Limitations

• Personal Injury: 2 years from the date of the accident
• Wrongful Death: 2 years from the date of death
• Property Damage: 2 years from the date of damage

Important: While you have 2 years to file a lawsuit, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly, and the sooner we start building your case, the stronger it will be.

Comparative Negligence

Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule with a 51% bar:

• If you are 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages
• Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover anything

Example: If you are found 20% at fault and your damages are $100,000, you would recover $80,000.

Damage Caps

Texas has specific rules about damage caps:

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

Insurance Requirements

Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance:

• Non-Hazardous Freight: $750,000
• Oil/Petroleum: $1,000,000
• Hazardous Materials: $5,000,000

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more in coverage, which is crucial for catastrophic injury cases.

What Your City of Dean Trucking Accident Case Might Be Worth

The value of your trucking accident case depends on many factors, including:

Economic Damages

• 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, home modifications, etc.
• Life Care Costs: Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages

• 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

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)

Case Value Examples from Texas Trucking Cases

While every case is unique, here are some examples of what Texas juries have awarded in trucking accident cases:

Important: These ranges are based on documented settlements and verdicts, but your case may be worth more or less depending on the specific facts.

Recent Major Trucking Verdicts and Settlements

The trucking industry has seen unprecedented jury verdicts in recent years, with awards reaching hundreds of millions of dollars:

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

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your City of Dean 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 with the experience, resources, and dedication to fight for the compensation you deserve. Here’s why Attorney911 is the right choice for your City of Dean trucking accident case:

25+ Years of Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. With over 25 years of experience handling trucking accident cases, we know how to build strong cases and negotiate effectively with insurance companies.

Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, which is crucial for interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. He uses that insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation for our clients.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

We have a proven track record of securing multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for our clients, including:

• $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

4.9-Star Client Rating

With over 251 Google reviews and a 4.9-star average rating, our clients consistently praise our dedication, communication, and results:

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

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

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

Bilingual Services

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, allowing us to serve City of Dean’s Hispanic community directly without interpreters. Hablamos Español.

Three Texas Office Locations

With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we’re never far from City of Dean and can provide local representation with statewide resources.

Aggressive Evidence Preservation

We act immediately to preserve critical evidence before it disappears, sending spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained.

Comprehensive Case Investigation

We leave no stone unturned in building your case, working with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and vocational experts to document every aspect of your damages.

Willingness to Go to Trial

While most cases settle, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready to fight for you in court if necessary.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in City of Dean

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in City of Dean, follow these steps to protect your health and your legal rights:

1. Call 911 Immediately

   • Report the accident and request medical assistance
   • Ensure police respond to document the scene

2. Seek Medical Attention

   • Even if you feel fine, get checked out immediately
   • Adrenaline can mask serious injuries
   • Delaying treatment can harm both your health and your case

3. Document the Scene

   • Take photos of all vehicle damage
   • Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, and skid marks
   • Get photos of your injuries
   • Document weather and lighting conditions

4. Collect Information

   • Get the truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
   • Get the trucking company name and DOT number
   • Collect contact information from all witnesses
   • Get the responding officer’s name and badge number

5. Preserve Evidence

   • Don’t let the trucking company take possession of the truck or trailer
   • Ask them to preserve all electronic data
   • Keep all medical records and bills

6. Don’t Give Statements

   • Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
   • Anything you say can be used against you
   • Refer all insurance calls to your attorney

7. Call Attorney911 Immediately

   • The sooner we get involved, the better we can protect your rights
   • We’ll send preservation letters to protect critical evidence
   • We’ll handle all communications with the trucking company and their insurer

Frequently Asked Questions About City of Dean Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in City of Dean?

If you’re able, take these steps immediately:

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

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. City of Dean area 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?

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 City of Dean?

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 City of Dean?

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 City of Dean?

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 City of Dean?

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 City of Dean?

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 City of Dean?

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.

Don’t Wait – Call Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in City of Dean, time is critical. Evidence is disappearing every hour, and the trucking company’s insurance team is already working to protect their interests – not yours.

At Attorney911, we offer:

• Free consultations – We’ll evaluate your case at no cost
• No fee unless we win – You pay nothing upfront
• 24/7 availability – We answer calls immediately
• Local knowledge – We know City of Dean’s roads, courts, and trucking corridors
• Aggressive representation – We fight for maximum compensation

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 or visit our website at attorney911.com to schedule your free consultation. Our team is ready to fight for you and your family.

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

Don’t let the trucking company take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 today and let us put our 25+ years of experience to work for your case. You deserve justice, and we’re here to help you get it.