18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Hudson, Texas | Attorney911

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 Hudson, Texas, 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 East 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.

Why Hudson Trucking Accidents Are Different

We know Hudson’s trucking corridors, from US-69 to the distribution centers and truck stops where drivers may be violating federal hours-of-service regulations. This local knowledge, combined with our understanding of FMCSA regulations, gives us an advantage in building your case.

Hudson sits at the intersection of major trucking routes serving Angelina County and the broader East Texas region. The US-69 corridor running through Hudson connects to Lufkin and Nacogdoches, creating a steady flow of commercial traffic. Local distribution centers and lumber operations generate significant truck traffic on local roads like FM 1818 and FM 225.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. A fully loaded truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds – that’s 20-25 times heavier than the average passenger vehicle. When these massive vehicles collide with cars, the results are often tragic.

Common injuries we see in Hudson trucking accident cases include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Amputations
• Severe burns
• Internal organ damage
• Wrongful death

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

Why You Need a Hudson 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer Immediately

Evidence in Hudson 18-wheeler accident cases disappears quickly. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. Trucking companies in Hudson and nationwide hire rapid-response teams to protect their interests. You need an attorney who moves just as fast.

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years inside the system. He watched adjusters minimize claims. He saw how they train their people to lowball victims. Now he exposes those tactics and uses his insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation for Hudson families.

The Most Common Causes of Hudson Trucking Accidents

Trucking accidents in Hudson and Angelina County typically result from one or more of these violations:

Hours of Service Violations

Federal regulations limit truck drivers to:

• 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• No driving beyond the 14th consecutive hour on duty
• 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of 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.

Improper Maintenance

Brake failures, tire blowouts, and lighting malfunctions are common in Hudson trucking accidents. FMCSA requires systematic inspection and maintenance of all commercial vehicles.

Negligent Hiring

Trucking companies must maintain Driver Qualification Files containing:

• Employment application and background check
• Driving record
• Medical certification
• Drug test results
• Training documentation

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring – a major liability issue.

Distracted Driving

Federal regulations prohibit:

• Using hand-held mobile phones while driving
• Texting while driving
• Reaching for devices in a manner requiring leaving the seated position

Cargo Securement Failures

Improperly secured cargo causes rollovers and spill accidents. FMCSA has specific requirements for tiedowns, blocking, and load distribution.

The Types of Trucking Accidents We Handle in Hudson

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when a trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes. These are frequently caused by sudden braking, especially on wet or icy roads.

Underride Collisions

Underride accidents happen when a vehicle slides underneath a trailer. These are among the most fatal types of trucking accidents, often resulting in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries.

Rollover Accidents

Rollovers occur when trucks tip onto their sides or roofs due to speeding on curves, improper loading, or sudden maneuvers. These accidents frequently involve multiple vehicles and catastrophic injuries.

Rear-End Collisions

Due to their massive weight, 18-wheelers require significantly longer stopping distances. A fully loaded truck traveling at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields.

Wide Turn Accidents

Trucks need significant space to complete turns. When drivers swing wide to make right turns, they create gaps that other vehicles enter, resulting in crushing injuries.

Blind Spot Accidents

Trucks have four major blind spots (No-Zones):

1. Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front
2. Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind
3. Left Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward
4. Right Side No-Zone: Much larger than left side – the most dangerous

Tire Blowout Accidents

Tire failures cause approximately 11,000 crashes annually. Underinflation, overloading, and poor maintenance are common causes.

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. Worn brake pads, improper adjustment, and air system failures are common issues.

Who Can Be Held Liable in Your Hudson Trucking Accident?

Multiple parties may be responsible for your injuries:

1. The Truck Driver – For negligent conduct like speeding, fatigue, distraction, or impairment
2. The Trucking Company – For vicarious liability and direct negligence (hiring, training, supervision)
3. Cargo Owners – For improper loading instructions or hazardous material disclosure failures
4. Loading Companies – For improper cargo securement
5. Truck Manufacturers – For defective design or manufacturing
6. Parts Manufacturers – For defective components
7. Maintenance Companies – For negligent repairs
8. Freight Brokers – For negligent carrier selection

Our Hudson trucking accident attorneys investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

The Evidence We Preserve in Hudson Trucking Cases

Critical evidence in Hudson 18-wheeler accident cases includes:

• ECM/Black Box Data – Records speed, braking, throttle position, and fault codes
• ELD Logs – Prove hours of service compliance or violations
• Driver Qualification Files – Show hiring and training practices
• Maintenance Records – Document vehicle upkeep
• Dispatch Records – Reveal schedule pressure
• Cell Phone Records – Prove distracted driving
• GPS/Telematics Data – Track route and speed
• Dashcam Footage – Visual record of the accident

We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve this evidence before it’s destroyed.

How Much Is Your Hudson Trucking Accident Case Worth?

Case values depend on several factors:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of defendant’s negligence
• Available insurance coverage

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits than typical auto policies:

• $750,000 minimum for non-hazardous freight
• $1,000,000 for oil and large equipment
• $5,000,000 for hazardous materials

This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.

Hudson Trucking Accident Case Results

While every case is unique, our firm has recovered:

• $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
• $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement
• $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
• Millions – Recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

“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

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Hudson Trucking Case?

1. 25+ Years of Experience – Ralph Manginello has been fighting trucking companies since 1998
2. Insurance Defense Background – Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney
3. Federal Court Access – Admitted to U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
4. Multi-Million Dollar Results – Proven track record of substantial verdicts and settlements
5. Local Knowledge – We know Hudson’s trucking corridors and local courts
6. Contingency Fee – You pay nothing unless we win your case
7. 24/7 Availability – We answer trucking accident calls immediately

What to Do After a Hudson Trucking Accident

If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Hudson or Angelina County:

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor
3. Document the Scene – Take photos of all vehicles, damage, road conditions, and injuries
4. Get Driver Information – Trucking company name, DOT number, driver’s license and insurance
5. Collect Witness Information – Names and contact details
6. Do NOT Give Statements – To any insurance company without legal representation
7. Call Attorney911 – Immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911

Hudson Trucking Accident FAQ

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

Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene with photos, get the trucking company information, collect witness details, and call an attorney immediately. Do not give statements to insurance companies.

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. Hudson hospitals and trauma centers can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case.

What information should I collect at the truck accident scene?

Document everything:

• 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

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.

How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney in Hudson?

IMMEDIATELY – within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly.

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

Multiple parties may be liable:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• The cargo owner
• The loading company
• Truck or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers

Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?

Usually YES. Under respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for negligent hiring, training, or supervision.

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 and prove what really happened.

What is a truck’s “black box” and how does it help my case?

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) that record operational data including:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Engine RPM and throttle position
• GPS location

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued.

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.

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

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.

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)

What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in Hudson?

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 Hudson?

Case values depend on many factors:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages 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 Hudson?

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

How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Hudson?

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Hudson Trucking Accident Resources

Hudson residents injured in trucking accidents should be aware of these local resources:

• Medical Facilities:

  • CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial Lufkin (12 miles from Hudson)
  • Woodland Heights Medical Center (Lufkin)
  • Nacogdoches Medical Center (30 miles from Hudson)

• Law Enforcement:

  • Hudson Police Department
  • Angelina County Sheriff’s Office
  • Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)

• Trucking Corridors:

  • US-69 (primary north-south route through Hudson)
  • FM 1818 (local truck traffic to distribution centers)
  • FM 225 (connects to lumber operations)
  • US-59 (major east-west corridor near Hudson)

Hudson Trucking Accident Statistics

While specific Hudson accident statistics are limited, Texas trucking accident data provides context:

• Texas has the highest number of trucking accidents in the United States
• Approximately 5,100 people die in truck crashes annually nationwide
• 76% of those killed are occupants of the smaller vehicle
• Fatigue, distraction, and speeding are leading causes
• The average 18-wheeler settlement in Texas exceeds $500,000

Hudson’s position along US-69 creates unique risks. This corridor connects to major distribution hubs and serves as a route for timber and agricultural products. The combination of local and through traffic increases accident risks.

Hudson Trucking Accident Case Example

While we can’t discuss specific client cases, consider this hypothetical scenario based on our Hudson trucking accident experience:

A Hudson resident was traveling north on US-69 when an 18-wheeler carrying lumber made a sudden lane change without signaling. The truck’s rear trailer swung into the Hudson driver’s lane, causing a collision. The Hudson resident suffered a traumatic brain injury and multiple fractures.

Our investigation revealed:

• The driver had violated hours of service regulations, driving 14 hours straight
• The trucking company had falsified ELD records to conceal the violation
• The driver had a history of speeding violations that wasn’t properly investigated during hiring
• The trailer’s cargo wasn’t properly secured, contributing to the swing

We were able to recover significant compensation for the Hudson resident’s medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

The Attorney911 Difference for Hudson Trucking Accident Victims

When you call Attorney911 after a Hudson trucking accident, here’s what happens:

1. Immediate Response – We answer your call 24/7 and begin preserving evidence immediately
2. Spoliation Letters – We send preservation demands within 24-48 hours
3. Evidence Collection – We obtain ECM data, ELD logs, maintenance records, and more
4. Expert Analysis – We work with accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and economists
5. Aggressive Negotiation – We fight for maximum compensation from all liable parties
6. Trial Preparation – We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial to create settlement leverage

“They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

Hudson Trucking Accident Attorneys Ready to Fight for You

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

At Attorney911, we understand that many trucking accident victims in Hudson speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Don’t wait – evidence is disappearing right now. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect them. You deserve the same level of representation. Call Attorney911 today.