18-Wheeler Accidents in Huntington, Texas: Your Legal Guide to Justice and Compensation

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Huntington, Texas, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. These aren’t just bigger car accidents—they’re catastrophic events that can change everything in an instant. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across East Texas for over 25 years, and we know exactly what Huntington families are going through.

Why Huntington 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different

Huntington sits at the crossroads of some of Texas’s busiest trucking corridors. US Highway 69 runs right through town, connecting the Port of Beaumont to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and carrying massive volumes of freight daily. The nearby Angelina County Airport and local distribution centers mean our roads see constant truck traffic. When accidents happen here, they often involve:

• Oilfield equipment being transported to and from the Permian Basin
• Timber trucks from East Texas’s logging industry
• Long-haul freight moving between Houston and Dallas
• Local delivery trucks serving Huntington businesses

The trucking companies operating in Huntington know these roads well—but that doesn’t stop them from cutting corners on safety. We’ve seen cases where drivers push their hours to meet unrealistic delivery schedules, where maintenance gets deferred to save money, and where companies hire drivers with questionable safety records just to keep trucks moving.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Crashes

When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. The physics simply don’t favor the smaller vehicle:

• 20-25 times heavier than your car
• 525 feet to stop at highway speeds (nearly two football fields)
• Higher center of gravity makes rollovers more likely
• Larger blind spots create dangerous no-zones

In Huntington, we commonly see:

Jackknife Accidents on US-69

The sharp curves and sudden stops on US-69 through Huntington create perfect conditions for jackknife accidents, especially when trucks are traveling too fast for conditions or carrying unbalanced loads. We’ve handled cases where trailers swung across all lanes of traffic, causing multi-vehicle pileups.

Underride Collisions at Rural Intersections

Huntington’s rural intersections can be deadly when trucks make wide turns or fail to yield. Underride accidents—where a car slides underneath a trailer—are among the most fatal, often resulting in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries.

Tire Blowouts on Long Straightaways

The long stretches of US-69 between Huntington and Lufkin see frequent tire blowouts, particularly during East Texas’s hot summers. When a steer tire fails at highway speeds, drivers often lose control completely.

Fatigue-Related Crashes from Long-Haul Drivers

Many trucks passing through Huntington are on long-haul routes between Houston and Dallas. Drivers pushing their hours-of-service limits to meet delivery deadlines cause some of the most preventable accidents we see.

Cargo Spills from Improperly Secured Loads

From timber loads to oilfield equipment, improperly secured cargo creates hazards for everyone on the road. We’ve seen cases where shifted loads caused trucks to roll over, spilling debris across multiple lanes.

Common Causes of Huntington Truck Accidents

Our investigations reveal the same preventable causes again and again:

Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)

Federal regulations limit drivers to:

• 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-hour on-duty window after coming on duty
• 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-hour weekly limits (60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days)

Yet in case after case, we find drivers exceeding these limits—often with their company’s knowledge or encouragement. The ELD (Electronic Logging Device) mandate was supposed to stop this, but we still see falsified logs and pressure from dispatchers to keep driving.

Distracted Driving

Despite federal bans on hand-held phone use, we routinely find drivers texting, using GPS, or communicating with dispatch when accidents occur. Cell phone records often reveal the truth that drivers won’t admit.

Improper Maintenance

Brake failures account for 29% of truck accidents according to FMCSA data. We’ve seen cases where:

• Brake pads were completely worn through
• Air brake systems had leaks that weren’t repaired
• Tires were bald or improperly inflated
• Lights and reflectors were missing or non-functional

Improper Loading

Cargo securement violations cause rollovers and spills. Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) require specific tiedowns, blocking, and weight distribution—but these rules are frequently ignored to save time.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Trucks need 40% more stopping distance than cars. When drivers speed—especially on Huntington’s two-lane highways—they simply can’t stop in time. ECM data often reveals speeds well above posted limits.

Driver Inexperience or Poor Training

Many companies cut corners on training to get drivers on the road faster. We’ve seen cases where:

• Drivers weren’t properly trained on mountain driving (even though they regularly traveled through East Texas’s rolling hills)
• New drivers weren’t supervised during their first months
• Companies failed to verify CDL credentials

Drug and Alcohol Use

Despite strict federal regulations, we still find drivers operating under the influence. Post-accident testing often reveals:

• Prescription drug misuse
• Illegal drug use
• Alcohol consumption before driving

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Huntington

The injuries from 18-wheeler accidents are often life-changing:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Even “minor” TBIs can cause:

• Memory loss
• Personality changes
• Cognitive impairment
• Depression and anxiety
• Difficulty concentrating

We’ve handled cases where victims who seemed “fine” after the accident developed serious cognitive deficits weeks later.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

• Paraplegia (loss of function below the waist)
• Quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs)
• Incomplete injuries with partial paralysis

These injuries often require $1-5 million in lifetime care.

Amputations

Crush injuries frequently result in surgical amputations or traumatic loss of limbs at the scene. Prosthetics can cost $5,000-$50,000 each, and they need replacement every few years.

Severe Burns

Fuel tank ruptures cause horrific burns requiring:

• Multiple skin graft surgeries
• Years of rehabilitation
• Permanent scarring and disfigurement

Internal Organ Damage

The force of a truck collision can cause:

• Liver and spleen ruptures
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusions
• Internal bleeding

Wrongful Death

When loved ones are killed, families face:

• Lost income and financial support
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Emotional trauma

Who Is Responsible for Your Huntington Truck Accident?

Huntington truck accidents rarely involve just one responsible party. We investigate and pursue claims against:

The Truck Driver

• Direct negligence (speeding, distraction, impairment)
• Violation of traffic laws
• Failure to inspect vehicle

The Trucking Company

• Vicarious liability for driver’s actions
• Negligent hiring of unqualified drivers
• Negligent training and supervision
• Negligent maintenance of vehicles
• Pressure to violate hours of service

Cargo Owners and Shippers

• Overloading trucks beyond weight limits
• Improperly securing cargo
• Failing to disclose hazardous materials

Loading Companies

• Improper cargo securement
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Failure to follow FMCSA cargo rules

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

• Defective brakes, tires, or steering components
• Design flaws in trailers or coupling devices
• Failure to warn of known dangers

Maintenance Companies

• Negligent repairs
• Using substandard parts
• Failing to identify safety issues

Freight Brokers

• Hiring unsafe carriers
• Failing to verify insurance
• Ignoring carrier safety records

Government Entities

• Poor road design
• Inadequate signage
• Failure to maintain safe conditions

The Evidence That Wins Huntington Truck Accident Cases

Trucking companies start building their defense the moment an accident happens. Their rapid-response teams arrive at crash scenes to:

• Download black box data
• Photograph the scene from their perspective
• Interview witnesses
• Begin shaping the narrative

That’s why you need to act fast. Critical evidence disappears quickly:

Our 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

When you call Attorney911 about your Huntington truck accident, we immediately:

1. Send spoliation letters to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of ALL evidence
2. Demand ECM/black box data before it can be overwritten
3. Subpoena cell phone records to prove distraction
4. Obtain police reports and 911 call recordings
5. Photograph the scene and all vehicles before repairs
6. Interview witnesses before memories fade
7. Hire accident reconstruction experts to analyze the crash dynamics
8. Secure surveillance footage from nearby businesses

What Your Huntington Truck Accident Case Is Worth

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance than typical drivers:

• $750,000 minimum for non-hazardous freight
• $1-5 million for many carriers
• $5 million for hazardous materials

This means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, unlike in car accidents where policy limits may be exhausted quickly.

Types of Compensation Available

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Property damage
• Home modifications
• Medical equipment
• Rehabilitation costs
• Life care expenses

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life):

• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement
• Physical impairment
• Loss of consortium

Punitive Damages (For Gross Negligence):
When trucking companies act with reckless disregard for safety, juries can award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer. Texas caps punitive damages at the greater of:

• $200,000, or
• Two times economic damages plus non-economic damages up to $750,000

Recent Trucking Verdicts in Texas

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

• $730 million – 2021 Texas case (Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger)
• $150 million – 2022 Texas settlement (Werner case)
• $37.5 million – 2024 Texas trucking verdict
• $35.5 million – Texas family injury case
• $35 million – 2025 Fort Worth trucking case

Why Huntington Families Choose Attorney911

Local Knowledge You Can Trust

We know Huntington’s roads, courts, and trucking patterns. We understand:

• The unique hazards of US-69 through town
• The local distribution centers and truck stops
• The Angelina County court system
• The common routes used by oilfield, timber, and freight trucks

Proven Results Against Trucking Companies

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting trucking companies since 1998. We’ve secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts against:

• Walmart trucking operations
• Coca-Cola distribution vehicles
• Amazon delivery trucks
• FedEx trucks
• UPS trucks
• Major commercial carriers

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Tactics

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurers:

• Train adjusters to minimize claims
• Use recorded statements against victims
• Delay cases to pressure lowball settlements
• Blame victims to reduce payouts

Federal Court Experience

With admission to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, we can handle interstate trucking cases that other firms can’t.

Compassionate Representation

We understand that after a truck accident, you’re not just a case number—you’re a Huntington family dealing with trauma, medical bills, and uncertainty. We treat every client like family, with:

• 24/7 availability
• Direct access to attorneys
• Regular case updates
• Spanish-language services through Lupe Peña

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Huntington

At the Scene:

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor
3. Document everything – Take photos of:
   • All vehicles involved
   • License plates and DOT numbers
   • Damage to your vehicle (inside and out)
   • The accident scene (road conditions, skid marks, debris)
   • Your injuries
   • Witness contact information
4. Get the truck driver’s information – Name, CDL number, insurance, trucking company
5. Don’t admit fault – Even saying “I’m sorry” can be used against you
6. Avoid giving statements – Don’t talk to insurance adjusters without your attorney

In the Days Following:

1. Follow all medical advice – Attend all appointments and follow treatment plans
2. Document your recovery – Keep a journal of pain levels, limitations, and how injuries affect daily life
3. Don’t post on social media – Insurance companies will use your posts against you
4. Call Attorney911 – The sooner we start, the stronger your case will be

Huntington Truck Accident Case Timeline

Common Questions About Huntington Truck Accidents

How long do I have to file a lawsuit?

Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases. However, you should contact an attorney immediately—evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases.

What if I was partially at fault?

Texas follows modified comparative negligence. As long as you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault.

How much is my case worth?

Every case is unique. Factors include:

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

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies offer better settlements when they know you have trial-ready attorneys.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Even if the driver owns their truck, both the driver and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies.

Can I still recover if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Yes. Their insurance company is still responsible for paying valid claims. We also explore other liable parties.

What if I don’t have health insurance?

We can help you get treatment through medical liens or attorney-recommended doctors who will wait for payment until your case settles.

How do I prove the driver was fatigued?

We use:

• ELD records showing hours of service violations
• Dispatch records showing unrealistic schedules
• Cell phone records showing activity during rest periods
• Witness statements about driver behavior

What if the truck’s black box data was destroyed?

Destroying evidence after receiving a spoliation letter can result in:

• Adverse inference instructions (jury told to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable)
• Monetary sanctions
• Default judgment in extreme cases

Huntington’s Trucking Corridors: Where Accidents Happen

US Highway 69

The main north-south route through Huntington sees heavy truck traffic, especially:

• Between Huntington and Lufkin – Long straightaways where speeding is common
• Through downtown Huntington – Congested areas with frequent stops
• Near the Angelina County Airport – Increased truck traffic from air cargo

Common accident types:

• Rear-end collisions from sudden stops
• Jackknife accidents on curves
• Underride collisions at intersections

FM 844 and FM 1818

These rural farm-to-market roads see truck traffic from:

• Timber operations
• Oilfield equipment transport
• Local deliveries

Common accident types:

• Wide turn accidents at rural intersections
• Rollover accidents from unbalanced loads
• Tire blowouts on rough road surfaces

Local Distribution Centers

Huntington’s proximity to larger cities means many distribution centers operate in the area, creating:

• Increased truck traffic in and out of facilities
• Congestion at loading docks
• Pressure on drivers to meet tight schedules

The Attorney911 Difference for Huntington Families

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic truck accident, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a team that understands what you’re going through and knows how to fight for you. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:

1. We Know Huntington’s Trucking Industry

We understand:

• The local trucking companies operating in Angelina County
• The common routes and schedules
• The unique hazards of East Texas roads
• The local courts and judges

2. We Have Insider Knowledge of Insurance Tactics

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurers:

• Train adjusters to minimize claims
• Use recorded statements against victims
• Delay cases to pressure lowball settlements
• Blame victims to reduce payouts

3. We Move Faster Than the Trucking Companies

While they’re sending rapid-response teams to the scene, we’re:

• Sending spoliation letters within hours
• Demanding black box data before it’s overwritten
• Interviewing witnesses before memories fade
• Photographing the scene and vehicles

4. We Prepare Every Case for Trial

Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court. Our reputation for trial readiness means better settlement offers for our clients.

5. We Treat You Like Family

You’re not just a case number to us. We offer:

• 24/7 availability
• Direct access to attorneys
• Regular case updates
• Spanish-language services
• Compassionate representation

6. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.

Real Huntington Families, Real Results

While every case is unique, here are examples of how we’ve helped Texas families recover after trucking accidents:

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

“I got a very nice settlement after being rear-ended by a truck.”
— MONGO SLADE, Attorney911 Client

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

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

What to Do Next

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Huntington, Texas, time is critical. Evidence is disappearing every hour. The trucking company’s team is already working to protect their interests.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll:

• Evaluate your case at no cost
• Send preservation letters immediately
• Start investigating your claim
• Answer all your questions
• Fight for the compensation you deserve

Remember: The trucking company has lawyers. So should you. Don’t wait—call us today.

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.

At Attorney911, we don’t just handle cases—we fight for Huntington families. Let us fight for you.