18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys Serving Groesbeck, Texas

Every year, thousands of 18-wheeler accidents occur on Texas highways. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in Groesbeck, you need an attorney who understands federal trucking regulations and how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. We know Groesbeck’s trucking corridors, from the local roads to the nearby highways where commercial traffic converges. This local knowledge, combined with our understanding of FMCSA regulations, gives us an advantage in building your case.

Why Groesbeck Trucking Accidents Are Different

Groesbeck sits at the intersection of several critical transportation routes. While it may not have the massive interstate traffic of larger Texas cities, our location creates unique risks:

Highway 14 runs through Groesbeck, connecting to major north-south routes
Highway 164 provides access to regional distribution centers
Proximity to larger corridors means Groesbeck sees significant through traffic from major carriers
Local industries including agriculture, construction, and oilfield services generate specialized trucking needs
Limestone County’s rural roads can be challenging for large trucks, especially during wet conditions

We’ve handled trucking cases on every major highway serving Groesbeck and understand the specific challenges drivers face in this area.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. Consider these facts:

A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds
The average passenger car weighs just 3,500-4,000 pounds
That means the truck is 20-25 times heavier than your vehicle
At 65 mph, an 80,000-pound truck carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a car
This energy transfers to the smaller vehicle in a crash, often with devastating consequences

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

Common Causes of Groesbeck Trucking Accidents

Our experience with Groesbeck-area trucking cases has revealed several recurring causes:

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer and cab skid in opposite directions, with the trailer folding at an angle similar to a pocket knife. The trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often sweeping across multiple lanes of traffic. In Groesbeck, these accidents frequently happen on wet roads or when drivers brake suddenly on Highway 14.

Underride Collisions

Underride collisions are among the most fatal types of trucking accidents. They occur when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of an 18-wheeler and slides underneath the trailer. The trailer height often causes the smaller vehicle’s passenger compartment to be sheared off at windshield level. These are particularly dangerous on rural roads where lighting may be inadequate.

Tire Blowouts

Tire blowouts are a significant hazard in Texas, especially during our hot summers. Groesbeck’s location means trucks passing through may have tires that are already stressed from long hauls. When a tire fails, especially a steer tire, the driver can lose control, causing the truck to veer into other lanes or even roll over.

Brake Failures

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. In Groesbeck, we’ve seen brake failures occur when:

Trucks descend hills without proper gearing
Maintenance is deferred to save costs
Brake systems overheat on long hauls
Drivers fail to conduct proper pre-trip inspections

Driver Fatigue

Fatigue-related accidents are tragically common in the trucking industry. Groesbeck sits along routes that connect major distribution hubs, meaning many drivers pass through after long hours on the road. FMCSA hours-of-service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents we see.

Distracted Driving

In our digital age, distracted driving has become a major concern. Truck drivers may be distracted by:

Cell phone use (texting, calls, GPS)
Dispatch communications
In-cab electronics
Eating or drinking while driving
External distractions (billboards, scenery)

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

The Critical First Steps After a Groesbeck Trucking Accident

Evidence in Groesbeck 18-wheeler accident cases disappears quickly. Trucking companies serving our area have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act quickly, critical evidence will be lost forever.

What to Do Immediately After the Accident

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 an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately

What NOT to Do

Don’t move your vehicle unless it’s creating a hazard (and document its position first)
Don’t discuss fault with anyone at the scene
Don’t sign anything from the trucking company or their insurance
Don’t post about the accident on social media
Don’t delay medical treatment, even if you feel okay

The Evidence We Preserve for Groesbeck Trucking Cases

We know exactly what evidence is critical in Groesbeck trucking accident cases and how to preserve it before it disappears:

Electronic Data

ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, throttle position, and other critical data
ELD Records: Electronic logging device data proves hours-of-service compliance
GPS/Telematics: Shows the truck’s route, speed, and location history
Cell Phone Records: Can prove distracted driving
Dashcam Footage: Forward-facing and cab-facing cameras

Driver Records

Driver Qualification File: Employment application, background check, training records
Driving Record: Previous violations and accidents
Medical Certification: Current physical exam results
Drug/Alcohol Test Results: Pre-employment and random testing
Hours-of-Service Logs: Paper logs or ELD data

Vehicle Records

Maintenance Records: Show if the truck was properly maintained
Inspection Reports: Pre-trip, post-trip, and annual inspections
Out-of-Service Orders: Previous violations that should have been fixed
Tire Records: Age, tread depth, replacement history
Brake Inspection Records: Adjustment and maintenance history

Company Records

Safety Policies: Company safety procedures and training materials
Dispatch Records: Communications between driver and company
Cargo Documentation: Bills of lading, loading instructions
Insurance Policies: Coverage limits and terms
CSA Scores: Carrier’s safety performance history

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

FMCSA Violations We Find in Groesbeck Trucking Cases

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates all commercial motor vehicles operating in interstate commerce. When trucking companies and drivers violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that cause catastrophic accidents. These are the most common FMCSA violations we find in Groesbeck-area trucking cases:

Hours of Service Violations

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate to prevent fatigue:

11-Hour Driving Limit: Cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
14-Hour Duty Window: Cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
30-Minute Break: Required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: Cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
34-Hour Restart: Can reset weekly clock with 34 consecutive hours off duty

Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. We regularly find hours-of-service violations in Groesbeck trucking cases, especially among drivers passing through on long hauls.

Driver Qualification Violations

FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a Driver Qualification (DQ) File for every driver containing:

Employment application and resume
Background check and driving record
Previous employer verification (3-year history)
Medical certification and exam records
Drug test results (pre-employment and random)
Training documentation

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring – a powerful claim against the trucking company.

Vehicle Maintenance Violations

Trucking companies must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles. Common maintenance violations we find:

Worn or improperly adjusted brakes
Bald or underinflated tires
Non-functioning lights or reflectors
Defective steering components
Inoperative windshield wipers
Missing or damaged underride guards

Brake problems alone are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes.

Cargo Securement Violations

Improperly secured cargo causes rollovers, spills, and loss-of-control accidents. FMCSA regulations require:

Proper number and strength of tiedowns
Correct load distribution
Appropriate blocking and bracing
Secure tarps and covers
Regular re-inspection during transit

Cargo securement violations are among the top 10 most common FMCSA violations.

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Groesbeck Trucking Accidents

Due to the massive size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles, trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In trucking accidents, the extreme forces cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull. Symptoms may include:

Headaches and dizziness
Memory loss and confusion
Difficulty concentrating
Mood changes and depression
Sleep disturbances
Speech difficulties
Personality changes

Severe TBI can result in permanent cognitive impairment, inability to work, and need for lifelong care. Lifetime care costs can range from $85,000 to $3,000,000+.

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis:

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

Lifetime care costs for spinal cord injuries range from $1.1 million for low paraplegia to $5 million for high quadriplegia.

Amputations

Amputations occur when limbs are severed at the scene or must be surgically removed due to severe damage. Ongoing needs include:

Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ each)
Physical and occupational therapy
Psychological counseling
Home modifications
Lifelong replacement of prosthetics

Severe Burns

Burns occur from fuel tank ruptures, hazmat spills, or electrical fires. Severe burns require:

Multiple reconstructive surgeries
Skin grafts
Long-term rehabilitation
Psychological treatment for trauma and disfigurement

Internal Organ Damage

Internal injuries may not show immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening:

Liver laceration or rupture
Spleen damage requiring removal
Kidney damage
Lung contusion or collapse
Internal bleeding

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can bring a wrongful death claim. In Texas, you may recover:

Lost future income and benefits
Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
Mental anguish and emotional suffering
Funeral and burial expenses
Medical expenses before death
Punitive damages if gross negligence is proven

“They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze.”
— Beth Bonds, Attorney911 Client

The Groesbeck Trucking Companies We’ve Fought

Our firm has extensive experience taking on major commercial entities that operate in the Groesbeck area:

National carriers passing through on long hauls
Regional carriers serving Central Texas
Local delivery companies operating in Limestone County
Oilfield service companies with operations in our area
Agricultural haulers transporting crops and livestock
Construction material suppliers serving local projects

We’ve successfully litigated against all types of commercial vehicle operations and know how to hold them accountable.

Our Insider Advantage Against Trucking Companies

Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for a national defense firm. This gives us unique insight into exactly how trucking insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims.

Lupe knows:

How insurance companies value claims
How adjusters are trained to minimize payouts
What makes them settle cases
How they deny claims
How their claims valuation software works

This insider knowledge gives our Groesbeck clients a significant advantage in negotiations and litigation.

The Multi-Million Dollar Results We’ve Achieved

While every case is unique, our track record demonstrates our ability to secure substantial compensation for trucking accident victims:

$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

These results show what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to trial – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.

The Groesbeck Trucking Corridors We Know

We understand the specific challenges of Groesbeck’s trucking environment:

Highway 14

This north-south route sees significant commercial traffic, especially agricultural and construction vehicles. The road’s curves and occasional narrow shoulders create hazards for large trucks.

Highway 164

Connecting Groesbeck to regional distribution centers, this route carries trucks serving local industries. The mix of local and through traffic creates unique challenges.

Local Roads

Groesbeck’s local roads often have:

Narrow lanes that don’t accommodate large trucks
Limited shoulders and ditches
Uneven surfaces from agricultural use
Limited lighting at night
Wildlife crossings

Nearby Highways

While not in Groesbeck proper, several major highways are close enough to affect our area:

I-45: Major north-south corridor about 30 miles east
US-79: Connects to larger transportation networks
SH-7: Provides access to regional distribution hubs

Trucks passing through Groesbeck often come from or are heading to these larger corridors.

Why Groesbeck Families Choose Attorney911

Local Knowledge

We know Groesbeck’s roads, courts, and trucking environment. This local knowledge helps us build stronger cases for our clients.

Aggressive Representation

We fight for maximum compensation. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows every tactic the trucking company will use against you.

Proven Results

We’ve recovered millions for Texas families devastated by trucking accidents. Our track record speaks for itself.

Personal Attention

Unlike large firms where you’re just a case number, we treat our clients like family. You’ll work directly with our attorneys, not just case managers.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all investigation costs.

24/7 Availability

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. We’re available when you need us.

“In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Manginello law firm were able to help me out.”
— Greg Garcia, Attorney911 Client

The Groesbeck Trucking Accident Claims Process

When you choose Attorney911, this is what you can expect:

1. Free Consultation

We’ll evaluate your case at no cost to you. There’s no obligation – just honest advice about your legal options.

2. Immediate Evidence Preservation

We send spoliation letters within hours to preserve:

Black box data
ELD records
Maintenance records
Driver qualification files
Dashcam footage

3. Comprehensive Investigation

We gather all available evidence:

Accident scene photos and measurements
Witness statements
Police reports
Medical records
Expert analysis (accident reconstruction, medical experts)

4. Medical Care Coordination

We help you get the treatment you need, even if you don’t have insurance. We work with local healthcare providers who understand trucking accident cases.

5. Demand Package

We compile all evidence and calculate your damages:

Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
Lost wages and earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Property damage
Other economic and non-economic losses

6. Negotiation

We negotiate aggressively with the trucking company’s insurance. Our goal is to secure a fair settlement without going to trial.

7. Litigation (If Necessary)

If the insurance company won’t offer a fair settlement, we file a lawsuit and prepare for trial. We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way to verdict if needed.

8. Resolution

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready if the case goes to court.

Groesbeck Trucking Accident FAQ

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Groesbeck, 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 an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately

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. Groesbeck-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 in Groesbeck?

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 Groesbeck?

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 Groesbeck?

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 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. 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 Groesbeck?

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 Groesbeck?

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 Groesbeck?

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 Groesbeck?

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years for personal injury and wrongful death claims. 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 to verdict 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 – Evidence Disappears Fast

Every hour you wait, evidence in your Groesbeck trucking accident case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. Trucking companies in Groesbeck and nationwide hire rapid-response teams to protect their interests.

You need an attorney who moves just as fast.

If you’ve been hurt in a trucking accident anywhere in Groesbeck or Limestone County, call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. Our Groesbeck trucking accident attorneys offer free consultations and work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911 para hablar con Lupe Peña.

Your fight starts with one call: 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer. We fight. We win.