18-Wheeler Accidents in Harker Heights: What You Need to Know After a Trucking Crash
The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Harker Heights
Every year, thousands of families across Texas face life-altering consequences from 18-wheeler accidents. If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking crash on Harker Heights highways, I-14, or the busy commercial corridors serving Fort Hood, you’re not alone. The aftermath can be overwhelming—medical bills piling up, lost wages from missed work, and the physical and emotional trauma that follows such catastrophic events.
At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through. Our team has been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. We know Harker Heights’s trucking routes, the local courts, and most importantly, how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable when they fail to follow federal safety regulations.
Why Harker Heights Trucking Accidents Are Different
Harker Heights sits at a critical juncture of Central Texas trucking activity. With Fort Hood nearby and major distribution centers serving the region, our roads see heavy commercial traffic. The unique factors that make Harker Heights vulnerable to trucking accidents include:
- Military Logistics Traffic: Fort Hood generates significant truck traffic for supplies, equipment, and personnel transport
- I-14 Corridor: This major east-west highway carries heavy commercial freight between Central and West Texas
- Local Distribution: Businesses serving the Killeen-Temple-Fort Hood metropolitan area rely on trucking for goods delivery
- Highway Interchanges: Complex intersections like the I-14/US-190 exchange create accident-prone zones
- Military Vehicle Mix: Military convoys and civilian trucks share the road, creating unique traffic patterns
When an 80,000-pound commercial truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. The physics are simple but brutal: your 4,000-pound car is no match for a fully loaded semi-truck. The injuries we see in Harker Heights trucking accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) from violent collisions
- Spinal cord damage that may result in paralysis
- Severe burns from fuel fires or hazardous cargo spills
- Crushing injuries that often lead to amputations
- Internal organ damage from the force of impact
- Wrongful death of loved ones
The Trucking Company’s Rapid Response Team is Already Working Against You
Here’s what you need to understand right now: while you’re dealing with injuries, medical treatment, and the emotional aftermath, the trucking company has already activated their rapid response team. Their goals are clear:
- Protect their interests, not yours
- Minimize their financial exposure
- Destroy or hide evidence that could prove their negligence
This is why you need to act immediately. Critical evidence in Harker Heights trucking accident cases can disappear within days:
- Black box data (ECM/EDR) can be overwritten in as little as 30 days
- ELD logs showing hours of service violations may be deleted after 6 months
- Dashcam footage is often erased within 7-14 days
- Surveillance video from nearby businesses typically overwrites in 30 days
- Physical evidence like the truck and trailer may be repaired or sold
- Witness memories fade quickly
Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these rapid response teams operate. He spent years on the other side, learning their tactics for minimizing claims. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.
Common Causes of Harker Heights 18-Wheeler Accidents
Trucking accidents don’t happen by accident. In our experience handling Harker Heights cases, we consistently find that these crashes result from preventable violations of federal safety regulations. The most common causes include:
1. Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations
Federal regulations (49 CFR Part 395) strictly limit how long truck drivers can operate:
- 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off duty
- 14-hour on-duty window – cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour
- 30-minute break required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
- 60/70-hour weekly limits – 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
Despite these clear rules, we frequently see Harker Heights trucking companies pressuring drivers to violate hours of service regulations. Fatigued driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving—reaction times slow, judgment becomes impaired, and the risk of falling asleep at the wheel increases dramatically.
In one recent Harker Heights case, we discovered that a driver had falsified his electronic logs to show compliance with hours of service rules. In reality, he had been on the road for 16 consecutive hours when he rear-ended our client’s vehicle at a stoplight on US-190. The ECM data proved the violation, leading to a substantial settlement.
2. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a growing problem among commercial truck drivers. Federal regulations (49 CFR § 392.82) prohibit:
- Using hand-held mobile phones while driving
- Texting while driving
- Reaching for a mobile phone in a manner that requires leaving the seated position
Despite these prohibitions, we regularly obtain cell phone records showing drivers were texting, talking, or using dispatch apps at the time of Harker Heights accidents. In one case, a driver was using his phone to navigate through Harker Heights when he drifted into oncoming traffic on I-14, causing a head-on collision.
3. Improper Maintenance and Brake Failures
Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. Federal regulations (49 CFR Part 396) require:
- Systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of all vehicles
- Driver pre-trip and post-trip inspections
- Annual comprehensive inspections
- Maintenance of records for at least one year
We’ve seen numerous Harker Heights cases where deferred maintenance led to catastrophic brake failures. In one instance, a truck’s brakes had not been properly adjusted, causing them to overheat and fail on the steep grade approaching the I-14 overpass. The resulting rear-end collision caused multiple injuries.
4. Cargo Securement Failures
Improperly secured cargo causes rollovers, jackknife accidents, and cargo spills that create hazards for other vehicles. Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) require:
- Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent shifting
- Securement systems must withstand specific forces (0.8g forward, 0.5g rearward/lateral)
- Minimum number of tiedowns based on cargo length and weight
In a recent Harker Heights case, we proved that a trucking company had used insufficient tiedowns on a load of steel beams. When the driver made a sudden maneuver on US-190, the cargo shifted, causing the trailer to roll over and spill its load across multiple lanes.
5. Driver Qualification Violations
Trucking companies must maintain Driver Qualification (DQ) Files for every driver (49 CFR Part 391). These files must include:
- Employment application
- Motor vehicle record from state licensing authority
- Road test certificate
- Medical examiner’s certificate
- Annual driving record review
- Previous employer inquiries (3-year history)
- Drug and alcohol test records
We’ve seen Harker Heights cases where trucking companies failed to:
- Verify the driver’s commercial driver’s license (CDL)
- Check the driver’s medical certification
- Investigate the driver’s previous employment history
- Conduct required drug and alcohol testing
In one case, we discovered that a trucking company had hired a driver with multiple previous CDL suspensions. This driver caused a multi-vehicle collision on I-14 when he failed to stop in time for slowed traffic.
6. Underride Collisions
Underride collisions occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler. These are among the most deadly types of trucking accidents, often resulting in decapitation or catastrophic head and neck injuries.
Federal regulations require rear impact guards on most trailers (49 CFR § 393.86), but:
- There is no federal requirement for side underride guards
- Many rear guards are inadequate to prevent underride in real-world crashes
- Guards are often damaged or improperly maintained
We’re currently handling a Harker Heights case where a family’s sedan slid under the side of a trailer making a wide turn at an intersection. The lack of side underride protection resulted in fatal injuries.
The Most Dangerous Harker Heights Trucking Corridors
Our experience handling trucking cases in Harker Heights has identified several high-risk areas where accidents frequently occur:
I-14 Corridor
This major east-west highway connecting Central and West Texas sees heavy commercial traffic. The interchange with US-190 is particularly dangerous, with complex merging patterns and heavy truck traffic serving Fort Hood.
US-190 (Central Texas Expressway)
Running through the heart of Harker Heights, US-190 carries significant commercial traffic to and from Fort Hood and local distribution centers. The high volume of trucks mixing with local traffic creates multiple accident hazards.
Fort Hood Access Roads
The roads serving Fort Hood see a unique mix of military convoys and civilian commercial trucks. The frequent stops, tight turns, and heavy traffic create dangerous conditions.
I-35 Connection
While not directly in Harker Heights, I-35 serves as a major north-south trucking corridor that feeds traffic into our area. Trucks traveling between San Antonio and Dallas often pass through or near Harker Heights.
Local Distribution Routes
The roads serving Harker Heights’s growing commercial sector see increasing truck traffic. These routes often involve tight turns, limited visibility, and mixing with local traffic.
What to Do Immediately After a Harker Heights Trucking Accident
If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Harker Heights, follow these critical steps:
- Call 911 immediately – Report the accident and request medical assistance
- Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, get checked out. Adrenaline masks pain, and some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately
- Document the scene – Take photos and videos of:
- All vehicle damage (truck and your vehicle)
- The accident scene, including road conditions and traffic signals
- Your injuries
- Skid marks and debris patterns
- The truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company information
- Collect information – Get:
- The truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
- The trucking company’s name and contact information
- Witness names and contact information
- The responding officer’s name and badge number
- Do NOT give recorded statements – Insurance adjusters will call quickly. Politely decline to give statements until you’ve spoken with an attorney
- Call Attorney911 immediately – We’ll send a spoliation letter to preserve evidence before it’s destroyed
Why You Need a Harker Heights 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney
Trucking accident cases are complex legal battles. The trucking company and their insurance carrier have teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim. You need someone on your side who understands:
1. Federal Trucking Regulations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399) govern every aspect of commercial trucking. Violations of these regulations often prove negligence in your case. We know these regulations inside and out.
2. Multiple Liable Parties
In trucking cases, multiple parties may share liability:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company (motor carrier)
- The cargo owner or shipper
- The company that loaded the cargo
- Truck or trailer manufacturers
- Maintenance companies
- Freight brokers
We investigate every potential defendant to maximize your recovery.
3. Insurance Company Tactics
Our team includes former insurance defense attorneys who know exactly how insurance companies evaluate claims. We’ve seen every tactic they use to minimize payouts, and we know how to counter them.
4. Evidence Preservation
Critical evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve:
- ECM/black box data
- ELD records
- Driver qualification files
- Maintenance records
- Dashcam footage
- Cell phone records
- GPS data
5. Harker Heights Courts and Judges
With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we’re never far from Harker Heights. We know the local courts, judges, and how to navigate the Bell County legal system.
The Attorney911 Difference: Fighting for Harker Heights Families
When you choose Attorney911, you’re getting more than just legal representation. You’re getting a team that:
Has 25+ Years of Experience
Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of the largest trucking companies in America.
Includes a Former Insurance Defense Attorney
Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance companies. He knows their tactics from the inside and uses that knowledge to fight for you.
Offers Bilingual Services
Hablamos Español. Many trucking accident victims in Harker Heights speak Spanish as their primary language. We provide direct representation without interpreters.
Works on Contingency
You pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. There are no upfront fees or hidden charges.
Has Federal Court Experience
Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for interstate trucking cases.
Has Recovered Millions for Texas Families
Our track record includes:
- $5+ million settlement for a traumatic brain injury case
- $3.8+ million settlement for a leg amputation case
- $2.5+ million recovery in a trucking accident case
- Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases
Common Types of Harker Heights 18-Wheeler Accidents
We handle all types of trucking accident cases in Harker Heights:
Jackknife Accidents
Jackknifing occurs when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes. These accidents frequently result from:
- Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
- Speeding, especially on curves
- Empty or lightly loaded trailers
- Brake system failures
- Improperly secured cargo
Rollover Accidents
Rollovers are among the most catastrophic trucking accidents. They often result from:
- Speeding on curves or ramps
- Taking turns too sharply
- Improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo
- Liquid cargo “slosh” shifting the center of gravity
- Overcorrection after a tire blowout or lane departure
Underride Collisions
Underride accidents occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler. These are often fatal and can involve:
- Rear underride (vehicle strikes back of trailer)
- Side underride (vehicle strikes side of trailer during turns)
- Inadequate or missing underride guards
- Poorly maintained underride protection
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions involving 18-wheelers are particularly devastating due to the massive weight disparity. Common causes include:
- Following too closely (tailgating)
- Driver distraction
- Driver fatigue
- Excessive speed for conditions
- Brake failures from poor maintenance
Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)
Wide turn accidents occur when a truck swings wide (often to the left) before making a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing the vehicle that entered the gap.
Blind Spot Collisions (“No-Zone” Accidents)
Trucks have four major blind spots where the driver cannot see other vehicles:
- Front No-Zone (20 feet directly in front of the cab)
- Rear No-Zone (30 feet behind the trailer)
- Left Side No-Zone (extends from cab door backward)
- Right Side No-Zone (extends from cab door backward, much larger than left side)
Accidents occur when trucks change lanes or turn without seeing vehicles in these blind spots.
Tire Blowout Accidents
Tire blowouts can cause trucks to lose control. Common causes include:
- Underinflated tires
- Overloaded vehicles
- Worn or aging tires
- Road debris punctures
- Manufacturing defects
- Improper tire matching on dual wheels
Brake Failure Accidents
Brake failures are a factor in nearly 30% of large truck crashes. Causes include:
- Worn brake pads or shoes
- Improper brake adjustment
- Air brake system leaks or failures
- Overheated brakes (brake fade) on long descents
- Contaminated brake fluid
- Defective brake components
Cargo Spill Accidents
Improperly secured cargo can fall from trucks, creating hazards for other vehicles. Causes include:
- Inadequate tiedowns
- Improper loading distribution
- Failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats
- Tiedown failure due to wear or damage
- Overloading beyond securement capacity
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions with 18-wheelers are often fatal. Causes include:
- Driver fatigue causing lane departure
- Driver falling asleep at the wheel
- Driver distraction
- Impaired driving (drugs or alcohol)
- Medical emergencies
- Overcorrection after running off the road
- Wrong-way entry onto divided highways
The Devastating Injuries We See in Harker Heights Trucking Cases
The injuries resulting from 18-wheeler accidents are often catastrophic due to the massive size and weight disparity between trucks and passenger vehicles. We’ve represented Harker Heights clients suffering from:
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
TBI occurs when the brain is violently shaken or impacted inside the skull. Symptoms can range from mild concussions to severe, life-altering brain damage. We’ve seen clients:
- Unable to return to work due to cognitive impairments
- Requiring lifelong care and supervision
- Experiencing personality changes that strain family relationships
- Facing increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis
Spinal cord damage can result in partial or complete paralysis. The level of injury determines the extent of paralysis:
- Cervical injuries (neck): Can result in quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs)
- Thoracic injuries (upper back): Can result in paraplegia (paralysis of the lower body)
- Lumbar injuries (lower back): Can affect the legs and lower body functions
We’ve represented Harker Heights clients who:
- Require ventilators to breathe due to high cervical injuries
- Need wheelchairs and home modifications
- Face millions in lifetime medical costs
- Experience loss of independence and quality of life
Amputations
The crushing forces in trucking accidents often result in traumatic amputations or injuries so severe that surgical amputation is required. We’ve seen clients:
- Lose limbs at the accident scene
- Require amputation due to infections or complications
- Face lifelong prosthetic needs (prosthetics can cost $5,000-$50,000 each and need replacement every few years)
- Experience phantom limb pain and psychological trauma
Severe Burns
Burns in trucking accidents result from:
- Fuel tank ruptures and fires
- Hazardous material spills and ignition
- Electrical fires from damaged wiring
- Friction burns from road contact
We’ve represented clients with:
- Third and fourth-degree burns requiring skin grafts
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Chronic pain and infection risks
- Psychological trauma from the experience
Internal Organ Damage
The forces involved in trucking accidents can cause severe internal injuries, including:
- Liver lacerations or ruptures
- Spleen damage requiring removal
- Kidney damage
- Lung contusions or collapse (pneumothorax)
- Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
- Bowel and intestinal damage
These injuries are particularly dangerous because they may not show immediate symptoms.
Wrongful Death
When trucking accidents claim lives, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims. We’ve represented Harker Heights families who lost:
- Parents in head-on collisions
- Children in underride accidents
- Spouses in rollover crashes
- Breadwinners in jackknife pileups
How We Prove Negligence in Harker Heights Trucking Cases
Proving negligence in trucking cases requires a comprehensive investigation. We leave no stone unturned in building your case:
1. Electronic Data Analysis
Modern trucks contain multiple electronic systems that record critical data:
- Engine Control Module (ECM): Records speed, throttle position, RPM, cruise control status, and fault codes
- Event Data Recorder (EDR): Captures pre-crash data when triggered by sudden deceleration or airbag deployment
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD): Records hours of service, GPS location, and driving time
- Telematics Systems: Provide real-time GPS tracking, speed, and driver behavior data
- Dashcams: Record video of the road ahead and sometimes the driver’s cab
We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this data before it’s overwritten or deleted.
2. Driver Qualification File Review
We obtain and analyze the driver’s qualification file to look for:
- Incomplete or missing employment applications
- Failure to verify the driver’s CDL
- Missing or expired medical certifications
- Inadequate background checks
- Previous violations or accidents
- Failure to conduct annual driving record reviews
3. Hours of Service Investigation
We analyze ELD data and other records to identify:
- Driving beyond the 11-hour limit
- Violations of the 14-hour on-duty window
- Missing 30-minute breaks
- Exceeding weekly limits (60/70 hours)
- Falsified log entries
4. Maintenance Record Review
We examine maintenance records to identify:
- Deferred maintenance
- Known defects that weren’t repaired
- Improper brake adjustments
- Worn or damaged tires
- Lighting system failures
- Failure to conduct required inspections
5. Cargo Securement Analysis
We investigate whether cargo was properly secured by:
- Reviewing loading records and procedures
- Analyzing tiedown specifications and condition
- Examining load distribution
- Checking for compliance with 49 CFR § 393.100-136
6. Drug and Alcohol Testing
We obtain and review:
- Pre-employment drug test results
- Random drug and alcohol test results
- Post-accident drug and alcohol test results
- Any history of violations
7. Cell Phone Records
We subpoena cell phone records to determine if the driver was:
- Texting while driving
- Talking on the phone
- Using dispatch apps or GPS navigation
- Violating 49 CFR § 392.82 (mobile phone use restrictions)
8. Witness Interviews
We interview:
- Eyewitnesses to the accident
- Other drivers involved
- First responders
- Trucking company employees
- Loading dock workers
9. Accident Reconstruction
We work with expert accident reconstructionists to:
- Analyze skid marks and debris patterns
- Determine vehicle speeds and trajectories
- Reconstruct the sequence of events
- Identify contributing factors
- Create visual exhibits for trial
10. Safety Record Analysis
We review the trucking company’s safety record, including:
- CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
- Inspection history and out-of-service rates
- Previous accident history
- Safety rating
The Damages You Can Recover in a Harker Heights Trucking Case
Texas law allows you to recover both economic and non-economic damages in trucking accident cases. We work with medical experts, vocational experts, and economists to calculate the full value of your claim.
Economic Damages
These are the calculable financial losses resulting from your injuries:
- Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs related to your injuries
- Lost Wages: Income lost due to time off work for recovery
- Lost Earning Capacity: Reduction in your ability to earn income in the future
- Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle and other property
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, etc.
- Life Care Costs: Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries
Non-Economic Damages
These compensate for the non-financial impact of your injuries:
- Pain and Suffering: Physical pain from your injuries
- Mental Anguish: Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression
- Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed
- Disfigurement: Scarring and visible injuries
- Loss of Consortium: Impact on your marriage and family relationships
- Physical Impairment: Reduced physical capabilities
Punitive Damages
In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. Texas law allows punitive damages when the defendant acted with:
- Gross negligence
- Willful misconduct
- Conscious indifference to safety
- Fraud (such as falsifying logs or destroying evidence)
The Legal Process: What to Expect in Your Harker Heights Trucking Case
When you choose Attorney911 to handle your trucking accident case, here’s what you can expect:
1. Free Initial Consultation
We’ll meet with you (in person, by phone, or via video conference) to:
- Listen to your story
- Evaluate the strength of your case
- Explain your legal options
- Answer your questions
2. Immediate Evidence Preservation
Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we’ll:
- Send spoliation letters to the trucking company and all potentially liable parties
- Demand preservation of all electronic data (ECM, ELD, dashcam, etc.)
- Secure physical evidence before it’s repaired or destroyed
- Begin gathering police reports and witness statements
3. Comprehensive Investigation
We’ll conduct a thorough investigation, including:
- Subpoenaing all relevant records
- Interviewing witnesses
- Working with accident reconstruction experts
- Analyzing all available data
4. Medical Treatment Coordination
We’ll help you:
- Get the medical treatment you need
- Coordinate with healthcare providers
- Document your injuries and treatment
- Understand your prognosis
5. Demand Letter
Once we’ve gathered sufficient evidence and you’ve reached maximum medical improvement, we’ll:
- Prepare a comprehensive demand package
- Calculate the full value of your claim
- Send a demand letter to the insurance company
6. Negotiation
We’ll negotiate aggressively with the insurance company to:
- Reject lowball settlement offers
- Present evidence of liability and damages
- Push for a fair settlement that compensates you fully
7. Litigation (If Necessary)
If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we’ll:
- File a lawsuit in the appropriate court
- Conduct discovery (interrogatories, depositions, document requests)
- Prepare your case for trial
- Continue negotiating from a position of strength
8. Trial or Settlement
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 to present your case to a jury if necessary.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Harker Heights Trucking Case?
When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a fighter. Here’s why Harker Heights families choose Attorney911:
1. We’re Harker Heights Trucking Accident Specialists
We don’t just handle trucking cases—we specialize in them. Our experience includes:
- Recovering multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements
- Taking on the largest trucking companies in America
- Handling complex federal regulation cases
- Fighting for families in wrongful death cases
2. We Have Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics
Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney. He knows:
- How insurance companies evaluate claims
- What makes them settle for maximum value
- How they train adjusters to minimize payouts
- Their strategies for denying legitimate claims
This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage in your case.
3. We Offer Bilingual Services
Hablamos Español. Many trucking accident victims in Harker Heights speak Spanish as their primary language. We provide direct representation without interpreters, ensuring clear communication and better outcomes.
4. We Work on Contingency
You pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation, including:
- Expert witness fees
- Court filing fees
- Investigation costs
- Medical record retrieval
There are no upfront fees or hidden charges.
5. We Have Federal Court Experience
Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court.
6. We Have a Proven Track Record of Results
Our results speak for themselves:
- $5+ million settlement for a traumatic brain injury case
- $3.8+ million settlement for a leg amputation case
- $2.5+ million recovery in a trucking accident case
- Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases
- $10 million lawsuit filed in the University of Houston hazing case (demonstrating our ability to handle complex, high-stakes litigation)
7. We Provide Personalized Attention
Unlike large firms where you’re just a case number, we treat you like family. You’ll have direct access to your attorney, and we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.
8. We’re Available 24/7
Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to answer your questions and address your concerns.
Client Testimonials: Hear from Harker Heights Families We’ve Helped
At Attorney911, we measure our success by the lives we’ve helped rebuild. Here’s what our clients say about working with us:
“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
“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer… Ralph reached out personally.”
— Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client
“One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
— Donald Wilcox, Attorney911 Client
“In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”
— Greg Garcia, Attorney911 Client
“I lost everything… my car was at a total loss, and because of Attorney Manginello and my case worker Leonor, 1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.”
— Kiimarii Yup, Attorney911 Client
Frequently Asked Questions About Harker Heights Trucking Accidents
What should I do immediately after a trucking accident in Harker Heights?
If you’re able, follow these steps:
- Call 911 and report the accident
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Document the scene with photos and videos
- 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
How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Harker Heights?
Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including trucking accidents. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.
What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation as long as you were less than 50% responsible. Our job is to investigate thoroughly and prove what really happened. Often, drivers claim the accident was your fault to protect their jobs—the data tells the true story.
How much is my Harker Heights trucking accident case worth?
Case values depend on many factors:
- Severity of your injuries
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
- Insurance coverage available
Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits than typical auto policies, often $750,000 to $5 million or more. This allows for larger recoveries than typical car accident cases.
Will my case go to trial?
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 to present your case to a jury if necessary. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court—and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.
Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?
No. We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.
How long will my case 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.
What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
Trucking companies are required to carry insurance, and we pursue all available coverage. If the company goes bankrupt, we may still be able to recover from their insurance carrier or other liable parties.
Can I sue for PTSD after a trucking accident?
Yes. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a compensable injury. We work with psychologists and psychiatrists to document your PTSD and include it in your claim.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can recover compensation as long as you were less than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, you would recover 80% of your damages.
The Harker Heights Trucking Accident Attorney You Can Trust
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Harker Heights, you need an attorney who:
- Understands the unique challenges of Harker Heights trucking cases
- Knows how to preserve critical evidence before it disappears
- Has experience taking on the largest trucking companies
- Will fight for the maximum compensation you deserve
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies try to minimize claims. We offer bilingual services, work on contingency (you pay nothing unless we win), and provide the personalized attention you deserve.
Don’t wait—critical evidence is disappearing every day. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll send a spoliation letter immediately to preserve evidence and begin building your case.
Contact Attorney911 Today
Toll-Free: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct Houston: (713) 528-9070
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: https://attorney911.com
Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.
We’re available 24/7. Don’t wait—call now before evidence disappears.