18-Wheeler Accidents in Leakey, Texas: Your Complete Guide to Legal Rights and Recovery

When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Your Life in an Instant

The moment you see an 18-wheeler looming in your rearview mirror on US-83 through Leakey, Texas, you know you’re sharing the road with something far more dangerous than a typical passenger vehicle. These massive trucks, often carrying loads approaching the legal limit of 80,000 pounds, require nearly twice the stopping distance of a car and create blind spots that can hide entire vehicles. When something goes wrong – a fatigued driver, faulty brakes, improperly secured cargo, or any of the countless hazards that plague the trucking industry – the results are almost always catastrophic.

If you or someone you love has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident on Leakey’s highways, you’re facing one of the most complex and high-stakes legal battles in personal injury law. The trucking company has rapid-response teams working to protect their interests right now. Their insurance adjusters are already calculating how to minimize your claim. And critical evidence – the black box data that proves how fast the truck was going, the electronic logs that show how long the driver had been on the road, the maintenance records that might reveal neglected repairs – is disappearing with every passing hour.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for Texas trucking accident victims for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against some of the largest trucking companies in America. We know Leakey’s trucking corridors, we understand the unique challenges of Real County’s roads, and we have the resources to go toe-to-toe with the trucking industry’s legal teams. This guide will explain your rights, the steps you need to take immediately, and how we can help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in Leakey Are Different

Leakey sits at the crossroads of several critical trucking routes that serve the Texas Hill Country and beyond. US-83, running north-south through the heart of town, connects to I-10 and serves as a vital corridor for trucks transporting goods between San Antonio and the Texas Panhandle. The scenic but challenging terrain of Real County, with its rolling hills and tight curves, creates unique hazards for large commercial vehicles.

The Trucking Corridors Serving Leakey

Every day, hundreds of 18-wheelers pass through Leakey and Real County, traveling on:

US-83: The primary north-south route through Leakey, connecting to I-10 near Junction to the south and continuing north toward Abilene. This highway sees significant truck traffic carrying agricultural products, oilfield equipment, and consumer goods.
FM 337: A scenic but challenging route that winds through the Hill Country, popular with tourists but hazardous for large trucks, especially when carrying heavy or oversized loads.
FM 336: Connects Leakey to Camp Wood and serves as an alternative route for local freight.
The I-10 Corridor: While not directly in Leakey, I-10 serves as the major east-west trucking route that connects to US-83, bringing transcontinental freight through the region.

These roads present unique challenges:

Sharp curves that require careful speed management
Steep grades that test braking systems
Limited shoulders that offer little margin for error
Wildlife crossings that create sudden hazards
Tourist traffic that increases congestion during peak seasons

When accidents occur on these roads, the results are often devastating due to the combination of challenging terrain and massive truck weights.

The Physics of Trucking Accidents: Why They’re Always Catastrophic

Understanding the physics behind 18-wheeler accidents helps explain why these crashes are so much more dangerous than typical car accidents.

The Brutal Mathematics of Trucking Accidents

Factor	Passenger Vehicle	18-Wheeler	Comparison
Weight	3,500-4,000 lbs	Up to 80,000 lbs	20-25 times heavier
Stopping Distance (65 mph)	~300 feet	~525 feet	75% longer
Height	4-5 feet	13-14 feet	3 times taller
Length	12-16 feet	70-80 feet	5-6 times longer
Blind Spots	Minimal	“No-Zones” on all sides	Entire vehicles disappear

Impact Force Calculation:
Force = Mass × Acceleration

A fully loaded 18-wheeler at 65 mph carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a passenger car at the same speed. When this energy transfers to your vehicle in a collision, the results are often catastrophic.

Common 18-Wheeler Accident Types in Leakey

The unique characteristics of Real County’s roads combined with the challenges of operating large commercial vehicles create specific accident patterns:

Rollover Accidents on FM 337 and FM 336
- Occur when trucks take curves too fast, especially when carrying top-heavy loads
- Common on the winding routes through the Hill Country
- Often result in cargo spills that create secondary hazards
Rear-End Collisions on US-83
- Trucks require nearly two football fields to stop from highway speeds
- Common at traffic lights and during sudden slowdowns
- Often result in underride collisions where passenger vehicles slide beneath trailers
Brake Failure Accidents on Steep Grades
- Real County’s hilly terrain puts tremendous stress on braking systems
- Overheated brakes can fail on long descents
- Common on routes with significant elevation changes
Wildlife Collisions
- Deer and other wildlife frequently cross rural roads
- Sudden swerving to avoid animals can cause loss of control
- More common during dawn, dusk, and nighttime hours
Tire Blowouts
- The heat and rough roads of the Texas Hill Country accelerate tire wear
- Blowouts can cause sudden loss of control, especially for steer tires
- Debris from blowouts can strike following vehicles
Fatigue-Related Crashes
- Long-haul drivers passing through Leakey often violate hours-of-service regulations
- The monotony of US-83 can exacerbate driver fatigue
- Common during overnight hours
Cargo Shift Accidents
- Improperly secured loads can shift during transit
- Common with agricultural products, livestock, and construction materials
- Can cause rollovers or loss of vehicle control

What to Do Immediately After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Leakey

The actions you take in the first 48 hours after a trucking accident can determine whether you receive fair compensation or are left fighting an uphill battle against the trucking company’s legal team.

Step 1: Call 911 and Report the Accident

Even if injuries seem minor, call 911 immediately. Texas law requires reporting any accident that results in injury, death, or property damage that prevents a vehicle from being driven.

Request police response to document the scene
Request EMS for medical evaluation
The police report will be critical evidence in your case

Step 2: Seek Medical Attention – Even If You Feel Fine

Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Many injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and internal bleeding, may not show symptoms for hours or days.

Go to Uvalde Memorial Hospital or another local emergency department
Follow up with your primary care physician
Document all symptoms, no matter how minor they seem
Delaying treatment gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim

Step 3: Document Everything at the Scene

If you’re physically able, gather as much evidence as possible:

Photograph all vehicles from multiple angles, including license plates
Photograph the truck – capture the DOT number, company name, and trailer identification
Document road conditions – skid marks, debris, weather, visibility
Photograph your injuries – bruises, cuts, swelling
Get witness information – names, phone numbers, addresses
Note the location – mile markers, nearby landmarks, street signs

Step 4: Collect Critical Information

Obtain the following from the truck driver and any witnesses:

Driver’s full name and contact information
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) number
Trucking company name and contact information
DOT number (found on the truck door)
Insurance information
Trailer number and cargo information
Names and contact information of any passengers

Step 5: Do NOT Give Statements to Insurance Adjusters

The trucking company’s insurance adjuster will contact you quickly – often within hours. They are trained to get you to say things that will minimize your claim.

Do not give recorded statements
Do not discuss fault or injuries
Do not sign anything
Refer all communications to your attorney

Step 6: Contact an 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney Immediately

Time is critical in trucking accident cases. Evidence disappears quickly:

Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days
Electronic logging device (ELD) records may be retained for only 6 months
Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days
Surveillance video from nearby businesses typically overwrites in 7-30 days
Witness memories fade significantly within weeks

We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained to preserve all evidence before it’s lost forever.

The Evidence That Wins Trucking Accident Cases

Trucking accident cases are won or lost based on the evidence. Unlike car accidents where liability is often disputed based on witness testimony, trucking cases have objective data that proves what happened.

Electronic Evidence: The Truck’s “Black Box”

Commercial trucks are equipped with sophisticated electronic systems that record critical operational data:

Engine Control Module (ECM)
- Records speed before and during the crash
- Shows brake application timing and force
- Captures throttle position and RPM
- Records fault codes that may indicate mechanical issues
Electronic Logging Device (ELD)
- Federally mandated since December 18, 2017
- Records driver hours of service
- Tracks GPS location and route
- Documents duty status (driving, on-duty not driving, off-duty)
- Proves hours of service violations
Event Data Recorder (EDR)
- Similar to an airplane’s black box
- Records data triggered by sudden deceleration or airbag deployment
- Captures pre-crash data for seconds leading up to impact
Telematics Systems
- Real-time GPS tracking
- Speed monitoring
- Driver behavior data (hard braking, rapid acceleration)
- Route history
Dashcam Footage
- Forward-facing cameras show road conditions
- Some record cab interior to capture driver behavior
- Can prove distraction or impairment

Physical Evidence

The Truck and Trailer Themselves
- Inspection for mechanical defects
- Analysis of damage patterns
- Examination of cargo securement
Tire Evidence
- Failed tires can be analyzed for defects
- Tread depth measurements
- Age and maintenance history
Brake System Components
- Brake adjustment measurements
- Pad and rotor wear
- Air system integrity
Cargo and Securement Devices
- Load distribution analysis
- Tiedown condition and capacity
- Blocking and bracing materials

Documentary Evidence

Driver Qualification File
- Employment application
- Driving record
- Medical certification
- Drug and alcohol test results
- Training records
Maintenance Records
- Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
- Repair orders
- Parts replacement history
- Annual inspection records
Dispatch Records
- Trip assignments
- Delivery schedules
- Communications between driver and dispatcher
Hours of Service Records
- ELD logs
- Driver’s paper logs (if applicable)
- Supporting documents (fuel receipts, toll records)
Cargo Documentation
- Bills of lading
- Weight tickets
- Loading diagrams
- Hazardous materials declarations
Drug and Alcohol Test Results
- Pre-employment tests
- Random tests
- Post-accident tests
- Reasonable suspicion tests
Cell Phone Records
- Call logs
- Text messages
- Data usage
- GPS location data

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Leakey Trucking Accident?

One of the most important differences between trucking accidents and car accidents is that multiple parties can be held responsible for your injuries. Identifying all potentially liable parties is crucial for maximizing your recovery.

1. The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

Speeding or reckless driving
Distracted driving (cell phone use, dispatch communications)
Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
Impaired driving (drugs or alcohol)
Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
Violation of traffic laws
Improper lane changes or failure to yield

2. The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets and the most responsibility for safety.

Vicarious Liability:
Under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are responsible for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment.

Direct Negligence:
Trucking companies can be directly liable for:

Negligent Hiring: Failing to properly vet drivers, check driving records, or verify qualifications
Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training or failure to train on specific equipment
Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance or compliance with regulations
Negligent Maintenance: Failing to maintain vehicles in safe operating condition
Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service regulations

3. The Cargo Owner / Shipper

The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable for:

Providing improper loading instructions
Failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
Requiring overweight loading
Pressuring the carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics

4. The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo onto trucks may be liable for:

Improper cargo securement (violating 49 CFR 393)
Unbalanced load distribution
Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
Not training loaders on securement requirements

5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

The companies that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for:

Design defects (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement)
Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
Failure to warn of known dangers
Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

6. Parts Manufacturers

Companies that manufacture specific parts may be liable for defective products:

Defective brakes or brake components
Defective tires causing blowouts
Defective steering mechanisms
Defective lighting components
Defective coupling devices

7. Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets may be liable for:

Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
Failure to identify critical safety issues
Improper brake adjustments
Using substandard or wrong parts
Returning vehicles to service with known defects

8. Freight Brokers

Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for:

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

9. The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

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

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

10. Government Entities

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

Dangerous road design that contributed to the accident
Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
Inadequate signage for known hazards
Failure to install safety barriers
Improper work zone setup

Special Considerations for Government Liability:

Sovereign immunity limits government liability
Strict notice requirements and short deadlines apply
Must prove actual notice of dangerous condition in many cases

The FMCSA Regulations That Prove Negligence

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates every aspect of commercial trucking operations. When trucking companies and drivers violate these regulations, they create dangerous conditions that cause accidents. Proving FMCSA violations is often the key to establishing negligence in your case.

Part 390: General Applicability

§ 390.3 – General Applicability:
“The rules in this subchapter are applicable to all employers, employees, and commercial motor vehicles that transport property or passengers in interstate commerce.”

This means that virtually all 18-wheelers operating on Leakey’s highways must comply with federal regulations.

Part 391: Driver Qualification Standards

§ 391.11 – Minimum Qualifications:
A person shall not drive a commercial motor vehicle unless they:

Are at least 21 years old (interstate) or 18 years old (intrastate)
Can read and speak English sufficiently
Can safely operate the CMV and cargo type
Are physically qualified under § 391.41
Have a valid commercial motor vehicle operator’s license (CDL)
Have completed a driver’s road test or equivalent
Are not disqualified under § 391.15
Have completed required entry-level driver training

§ 391.51 – Driver Qualification File:
Motor carriers must maintain a file for every driver containing:

Employment application
Motor vehicle record from state licensing authority
Road test certificate or equivalent
Medical examiner’s certificate (current, valid for max 2 years)
Annual driving record review
Previous employer inquiries (3-year driving history investigation)
Drug and alcohol test records

Why This Matters:
If the trucking company failed to maintain a proper Driver Qualification File, failed to check the driver’s background, or hired a driver with a poor safety record, they can be held liable for negligent hiring.

Part 392: Driving Rules

§ 392.3 – Ill or Fatigued Operators:
“No driver shall operate a commercial motor vehicle, and a motor carrier shall not require or permit a driver to operate a commercial motor vehicle, while the driver’s ability or alertness is so impaired, or so likely to become impaired, through fatigue, illness, or any other cause, as to make it unsafe for him/her to begin or continue to operate the commercial motor vehicle.”

Why This Matters:
This regulation makes BOTH the driver AND the trucking company liable when a fatigued driver causes an accident.

§ 392.4 – Drugs and Other Substances:
A driver shall not be on duty or operate a CMV while:

Under the influence of any Schedule I substance
Under the influence of an amphetamine, narcotic, or any substance that renders them incapable of safe driving
Possessing a Schedule I substance (unless prescription)

§ 392.5 – Alcohol:
A driver shall not:

Use alcohol within 4 hours before going on duty or operating a CMV
Use alcohol while on duty or operating a CMV
Be under the influence of alcohol (.04 BAC or higher) while on duty
Possess any alcohol while on duty (with limited exceptions)

§ 392.6 – Speeding:
“No motor carrier shall schedule a run, nor shall any such carrier permit or require the operation of any commercial motor vehicle, between points in such period of time as would require the commercial motor vehicle to be operated at speeds in excess of those prescribed by the jurisdictions in or through which the commercial motor vehicle is being operated.”

§ 392.11 – Following Too Closely:
“The driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicle and the traffic upon, and conditions of, the highway.”

§ 392.82 – Mobile Phone Use:
Drivers are PROHIBITED from:

Using a hand-held mobile telephone while driving
Reaching for a mobile phone in a manner requiring leaving seated position
Texting while driving (§ 392.80)

Part 393: Parts and Accessories for Safe Operation

§ 393.100-136 – Cargo Securement:
Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent:

Leaking, spilling, blowing, or falling from the vehicle
Shifting that affects vehicle stability or maneuverability
Blocking the driver’s view or interfering with operation

Performance Criteria (§ 393.102):
Cargo securement systems must withstand:

Forward: 0.8 g deceleration (sudden stop)
Rearward: 0.5 g acceleration
Lateral: 0.5 g (side-to-side)
Downward: At least 20% of cargo weight if not fully contained

Tiedown Requirements:

Aggregate working load limit must be at least 50% of cargo weight for loose cargo
At least one tiedown for cargo 5 feet or less in length
At least two tiedowns for cargo over 5 feet or under 1,100 lbs
Additional tiedowns for every 10 feet of cargo length

§ 393.40-55 – Brakes:
All CMVs must have properly functioning brake systems:

Service brakes on all wheels
Parking/emergency brake system
Air brake systems must meet specific requirements
Brake adjustment must be maintained within specifications

§ 393.11-26 – Lighting:
Required lighting includes:

Headlamps, tail lamps, stop lamps
Clearance and side marker lamps
Reflectors and retroreflective sheeting
Turn signal lamps

Part 395: Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations

These are the most commonly violated regulations in trucking accidents.

Property-Carrying Drivers (Most 18-Wheelers):

Rule	Requirement	Violation Consequence
11-Hour Driving Limit	Cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty	Fatigue-related accidents
14-Hour Duty Window	Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty	Driver exhaustion
30-Minute Break	Must take 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving	Impaired alertness
60/70-Hour Limit	Cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days	Cumulative fatigue
34-Hour Restart	Can restart 60/70-hour clock with 34 consecutive hours off	Inadequate recovery
10-Hour Off-Duty	Must have minimum 10 consecutive hours off duty before driving	Insufficient rest

Sleeper Berth Provision (§ 395.1(g)):
Drivers using sleeper berth may split 10-hour off-duty period:

At least 7 consecutive hours in sleeper berth
Plus at least 2 consecutive hours off-duty (in berth or otherwise)
Neither period counts against 14-hour window

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Mandate (§ 395.8):
Since December 18, 2017, most CMV drivers must use ELDs that:

Automatically record driving time
Synchronize with vehicle engine to record objective data
Cannot be altered after the fact (unlike paper logs)
Record GPS location, speed, engine hours

Why ELD Data Is Critical Evidence:
ELDs prove:

Exactly how long the driver was on duty
Whether breaks were taken as required
Speed before and during the accident
GPS location history
Any hours of service violations

Part 396: Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

§ 396.3 – General Maintenance Requirement:
“Every motor carrier and intermodal equipment provider must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain, or cause to be systematically inspected, repaired, and maintained, all motor vehicles and intermodal equipment subject to its control.”

Driver Inspection Requirements:

Pre-Trip Inspection (§ 396.13):
Before driving, drivers must be satisfied the CMV is in safe operating condition. Must review last driver vehicle inspection report if defects were noted.

Post-Trip Report (§ 396.11):
After each day’s driving, drivers must prepare written report on vehicle condition covering at minimum:

Service brakes
Parking brake
Steering mechanism
Lighting devices and reflectors
Tires
Horn
Windshield wipers
Rear vision mirrors
Coupling devices
Wheels and rims
Emergency equipment

Annual Inspection (§ 396.17):
Every CMV must pass a comprehensive annual inspection covering 16+ systems. Inspection decal must be displayed. Records must be retained for 14 months.

Maintenance Record Retention (§ 396.3):
Motor carriers must maintain records for each vehicle showing:

Identification (make, serial number, year, tire size)
Schedule for inspection, repair, and maintenance
Record of repairs and maintenance
Records must be retained for 1 year

The Most Common FMCSA Violations That Cause Accidents

Our investigation of trucking accidents in Leakey and throughout Texas consistently reveals the same violations. These are the “red flags” we look for in every case:

Hours of Service Violations – Driving beyond 11-hour limit, no breaks
False Log Entries – Falsifying ELD or paper log records
Failure to Maintain Brakes – Worn brakes, improper adjustment
Cargo Securement Failures – Inadequate tiedowns, shifting loads
Unqualified Driver – Operating without valid CDL or medical certificate
Drug/Alcohol Violations – Operating under influence, failed tests
Mobile Phone Use – Texting, hand-held phone while driving
Failure to Inspect – No pre-trip inspection, ignored defects
Improper Lighting – Non-functioning lights, missing reflectors
Negligent Hiring – No background check, incomplete DQ file

The Catastrophic Injuries Caused by 18-Wheeler Accidents

The massive size and weight of 18-wheelers mean that accidents almost always result in catastrophic injuries. These are life-changing injuries that require extensive medical treatment and often result in permanent disability.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

What It Is:
TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In 18-wheeler accidents, the extreme forces cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull.

Severity Levels:

Level	Symptoms	Prognosis
Mild (Concussion)	Confusion, headache, brief loss of consciousness	Usually recovers, but may have lasting effects
Moderate	Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits	Significant recovery possible with rehabilitation
Severe	Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment	Lifelong disability, may require 24/7 care

Common Symptoms:

Headaches, dizziness, nausea
Memory loss, confusion
Difficulty concentrating
Mood changes, depression, anxiety
Sleep disturbances
Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
Speech difficulties
Personality changes

Long-Term Consequences:

Permanent cognitive impairment
Inability to work
Need for ongoing care and supervision
Increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s
Depression and emotional disorders

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

Spinal Cord Injury

What It Is:
Damage to the spinal cord that disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of Paralysis:

Type	Definition	Impact
Paraplegia	Loss of function below the waist	Cannot walk, may affect bladder/bowel control
Quadriplegia	Loss of function in all four limbs	Cannot walk or use arms, may need breathing assistance
Incomplete Injury	Some nerve function remains	Variable – may have some sensation or movement
Complete Injury	No nerve function below injury	Total loss of sensation and movement

Level of Injury Matters:

Higher injuries (cervical spine) affect more body functions
C1-C4 injuries may require ventilator for breathing
Lower injuries (lumbar) affect legs but not arms

Lifetime Care Costs:

Paraplegia (low): $1.1 million+
Paraplegia (high): $2.5 million+
Quadriplegia (low): $3.5 million+
Quadriplegia (high): $5 million+

These figures represent direct medical costs only – not lost wages, pain and suffering, or loss of quality of life.

Amputation

Types of Amputation:

Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the scene due to crash forces
Surgical Amputation: Limb so severely damaged it must be surgically removed

Common in 18-Wheeler Accidents Due To:

Crushing forces from truck impact
Entrapment requiring amputation for extraction
Severe burns requiring surgical removal
Infections from open wounds

Ongoing Medical Needs:

Initial surgery and hospitalization
Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ per prosthetic)
Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Occupational therapy for daily living skills
Psychological counseling

Impact on Life:

Permanent disability
Career limitations or total disability
Phantom limb pain
Body image and psychological trauma
Need for home modifications
Dependency on others for daily activities

Severe Burns

How Burns Occur in 18-Wheeler Accidents:

Fuel tank rupture and fire
Hazmat cargo spills and ignition
Electrical fires from battery/wiring damage
Friction burns from road contact
Chemical burns from hazmat exposure

Burn Classification:

Degree	Depth	Treatment
First	Epidermis only	Minor, heals without scarring
Second	Epidermis and dermis	May scar, may need grafting
Third	Full thickness	Requires skin grafts, permanent scarring
Fourth	Through skin to muscle/bone	Multiple surgeries, amputation may be required

Long-Term Consequences:

Permanent scarring and disfigurement
Multiple reconstructive surgeries
Skin graft procedures
Chronic pain
Infection risks
Psychological trauma

Internal Organ Damage

Common Internal Injuries:

Liver laceration or rupture
Spleen damage requiring removal
Kidney damage
Lung contusion or collapse (pneumothorax)
Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
Bowel and intestinal damage

Why Dangerous:

May not show immediate symptoms
Internal bleeding can be life-threatening
Requires emergency surgery
Organ removal affects long-term health

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members may bring a wrongful death claim.

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas:

Surviving spouse
Children (minor and adult)
Parents (especially if no spouse or children)
Estate representative

Types of Claims:

Wrongful Death Action: Compensation for survivors’ losses
Survival Action: Compensation for decedent’s pain/suffering before death

Damages Available in Texas:

Lost future income and benefits
Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
Mental anguish and emotional suffering
Funeral and burial expenses
Medical expenses incurred prior to death
Pain and suffering experienced by decedent before death
Punitive damages (if gross negligence)

Texas Statute of Limitations: 2 years from date of death to file wrongful death lawsuit

The Compensation You Can Recover

Texas law allows you to recover both economic and non-economic damages for injuries caused by negligence. In cases of gross negligence, punitive damages may also be available.

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

Category	What’s Included
Medical Expenses	Past, present, and future medical costs including hospital bills, doctor visits, medications, medical equipment, and rehabilitation
Lost Wages	Income lost due to injury and recovery time
Lost Earning Capacity	Reduction in future earning ability due to permanent disability
Property Damage	Vehicle repair or replacement costs
Out-of-Pocket Expenses	Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, assistive devices
Life Care Costs	Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries including in-home nursing, medical equipment, and future surgeries

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

Category	What’s Included
Pain and Suffering	Physical pain from injuries and medical treatment
Mental Anguish	Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression
Loss of Enjoyment	Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed
Disfigurement	Scarring, visible injuries, amputations
Loss of Consortium	Impact on marriage and family relationships
Physical Impairment	Reduced physical capabilities and independence

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence)

Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company or driver acted with:

Gross negligence
Willful misconduct
Conscious indifference to safety
Fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence)

Texas Punitive Damages Cap:
Greater of (2x economic damages + non-economic damages capped at $750,000) OR $200,000

The Insurance That Covers Your Injuries

Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance far exceeding typical auto policies.

FMCSA Minimum Insurance Requirements

Cargo Type	Minimum Coverage
Non-Hazardous Freight (10,001+ lbs GVWR)	$750,000
Oil/Petroleum (10,001+ lbs GVWR)	$1,000,000
Large Equipment (10,001+ lbs GVWR)	$1,000,000
Hazardous Materials (All)	$5,000,000
Passengers (16+ passengers)	$5,000,000
Passengers (15 or fewer)	$1,500,000

Why This Matters For Your Case:
Unlike car accidents where insurance may be limited to $30,000-$100,000, trucking accidents typically have at least $750,000 available – and often much more. Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more in coverage.

This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.

The Nuclear Verdicts That Are Changing the Trucking Industry

Juries across the country, including in Texas, are sending a clear message to the trucking industry: negligence that causes catastrophic injuries will be met with massive verdicts.

Recent Major Trucking Verdicts (2024-2025)

Amount	Year	Location	Case Details
$462 Million	2024	St. Louis, MO	Wabash National – two fatalities in underride collision
$160 Million	2024	Alabama	Daimler – quadriplegic injury from rollover
$141.5 Million	2024	Florida	Defunct carrier crash causing catastrophic injuries
$90 Million	2024	Houston, TX	Truck driver burned in explosion
$37.5 Million	2024	Texas	Trucking verdict for catastrophic injuries
$35.5 Million	2024	Texas	Family injured in truck accident
$35 Million	2025	Fort Worth, TX	Largest verdict in Tarrant County history

Historic Landmark Verdicts

Amount	Year	Case Details
$1 Billion	2021	Florida – 18-year-old killed, $100M compensatory + $900M punitive for gross negligence in hiring
$411 Million	2020	Florida – 45-vehicle pileup, motorcyclist severely injured

Why Nuclear Verdicts Happen:
Juries award massive verdicts when they find:

Trucking company knowingly hired dangerous drivers
Company ignored safety violations for profit
Evidence was destroyed (spoliation)
Falsified hours-of-service logs
Pattern of similar violations
Corporate culture prioritizing profit over safety
Egregious disregard for human life

What This Means For Your Case:
These verdicts show what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable. Insurance companies know juries are willing to award massive damages – which strengthens settlement negotiations.

Why You Need an Attorney Who Fights Trucking Companies

Trucking accident cases are not like typical car accident cases. They require specialized knowledge, significant resources, and a willingness to go to trial against well-funded corporate defendants.

The Insurance Company’s Playbook

The trucking company’s insurance adjuster is not your friend. Their job is to minimize your claim. Here are the tactics they’ll use:

Quick Lowball Settlement Offers
- Offer a fraction of what your case is worth
- Pressure you to accept before you understand your injuries
- Hope you’ll take the money and go away
Denying or Minimizing Your Injuries
- Claim your injuries are pre-existing
- Argue that your treatment was unnecessary
- Say you’re exaggerating your symptoms
Blaming You for the Accident
- Claim you were speeding, distracted, or otherwise at fault
- Use Texas’s comparative negligence laws to reduce your recovery
- Find any reason to assign you partial fault
Delaying the Claims Process
- Take months to respond to requests
- “Lose” documents
- Hope you’ll get frustrated and accept a low offer
Using Recorded Statements Against You
- Get you to say things that hurt your case
- Take your words out of context
- Use your statements to deny your claim
“Pre-Existing Condition” Defense
- Claim your injuries existed before the accident
- Argue that the accident didn’t cause your current problems
- Use Texas’s “eggshell skull” rule against you
“Gap in Treatment” Attacks
- Argue that gaps in treatment mean you weren’t really injured
- Claim you failed to mitigate your damages
- Use delays against you
Sending Surveillance Investigators
- Follow you and film your activities
- Look for any evidence that contradicts your injury claims
- Use out-of-context footage to argue you’re not really hurt
Hiring “Independent” Medical Examiners
- Send you to doctors who work for insurance companies
- Get reports that minimize your injuries
- Use these reports to deny your claim
Drowning You in Paperwork
- Request mountains of documents
- Hope you’ll miss deadlines
- Use technicalities to deny your claim

Our Insider Advantage

At Attorney911, we have a former insurance defense attorney on our team. Lupe Peña spent years working for a national defense firm, where he learned exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for accident victims.

Here’s what Lupe knows that other attorneys don’t:

What He Learned	How It Helps You
How insurance companies VALUE claims	He knows their formulas and can maximize your recovery
How adjusters are TRAINED	He recognizes their manipulation tactics immediately
What makes them SETTLE	He knows when they’re bluffing and when they’ll pay
How they MINIMIZE payouts	He counters every tactic they use against you
How they DENY claims	He knows how to fight wrongful denials
Claims valuation software (Colossus, etc.)	He understands how algorithms undervalue your suffering

What to Expect When You Call Attorney911

When you call us after an 18-wheeler accident in Leakey, here’s what happens:

Step 1: Immediate Case Evaluation

We’ll answer your call 24/7
A real person will speak with you – no automated systems
We’ll evaluate your case and explain your rights
If we can help, we’ll take immediate action

Step 2: Evidence Preservation

Within 24-48 hours, we’ll:

Send spoliation letters to the trucking company and their insurer
Demand preservation of all electronic data (ECM, ELD, dashcam)
Secure physical evidence before it’s repaired or destroyed
Begin gathering accident reports and witness statements

Step 3: Medical Care Coordination

We’ll help you get the medical treatment you need
We work with specialists who understand trucking accident injuries
We can arrange treatment even if you don’t have insurance
We’ll document your injuries for your case

Step 4: Comprehensive Investigation

We’ll gather all critical evidence:

ECM/Black box data
ELD records
Driver Qualification File
Maintenance records
Inspection reports
Drug and alcohol test results
Dispatch records
Cell phone records
Cargo documentation
Surveillance video

Step 5: Liability Determination

We’ll analyze all evidence to determine fault
We’ll identify all potentially liable parties
We’ll build a case showing exactly how the accident happened

Step 6: Damage Calculation

We’ll work with medical experts to document your injuries
We’ll calculate past and future medical expenses
We’ll assess lost wages and earning capacity
We’ll evaluate pain and suffering damages
We’ll determine if punitive damages may be available

Step 7: Demand and Negotiation

We’ll send a comprehensive demand to the insurance company
We’ll negotiate aggressively for maximum compensation
We’ll reject lowball offers
We’ll prepare for trial if necessary

Step 8: Litigation (If Necessary)

We’ll file a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires
We’ll conduct aggressive discovery
We’ll take depositions of key witnesses
We’ll build a trial-ready case
We’ll fight for you in court if the insurance company won’t be reasonable

Frequently Asked Questions About Leakey Trucking Accidents

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Leakey, 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. Uvalde Memorial Hospital and other local medical facilities 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 Leakey?

Document everything possible:

Truck and trailer license plates
DOT number (on the 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 Leakey?

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 Leakey?

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 responsible for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for:

Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified drivers)
Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)

What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs – the data tells the true story.

What is an owner-operator and does that affect my case?

An owner-operator is a driver who owns their own truck and contracts with trucking companies. This can complicate liability, but both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.

How do I find out if the trucking company has a bad safety record?

FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain the carrier’s:

CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
Inspection history and out-of-service rates
Crash history
Safety rating

A poor safety record can prove the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on the road.

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

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data – similar to an airplane’s black box but for trucks. This data can show:

Speed before and during the crash
Brake application timing
Engine RPM and throttle position
Whether cruise control was engaged
GPS location

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are federally mandated devices that record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued. Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents.

How long does the trucking company keep black box and ELD data?

ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention for ELD data. This is why we send spoliation letters immediately – once we notify them of litigation, they must preserve everything.

What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We pursue:

ECM/Black box data
ELD records
Driver Qualification File
Maintenance records
Inspection reports
Dispatch logs
Drug and alcohol test results
Training records
Cell phone records
Insurance policies
The physical truck and trailer

Can the trucking company destroy evidence?

Once they’re on notice of potential litigation, destroying evidence is spoliation – a serious legal violation. Courts can:

Instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable
Impose monetary sanctions
Enter default judgment in extreme cases
Award punitive damages for intentional destruction

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)
Mobile phone use
Failure to inspect vehicles
Improper lighting
Negligent hiring

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 Leakey?

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 Leakey?

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. We’ve seen verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions.

What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in Leakey?

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 Leakey?

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys. We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way if necessary.

Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?

NO. We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

How much insurance do trucking companies carry?

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:

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

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.

What if multiple insurance policies apply to my accident?

Trucking cases often involve multiple policies:

Motor carrier’s liability policy
Trailer interchange coverage
Cargo insurance
Owner-operator’s policy
Excess/umbrella coverage

We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.

Will the trucking company’s insurance try to settle quickly?

Often yes – and that’s a red flag. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Leakey Trucking Accident Case

25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas since 1998. He has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against some of the largest trucking companies in America.

Federal Court Experience

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

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Tactics

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for accident victims.

Deep Familiarity with Leakey’s Trucking Corridors

We know Leakey’s highways and the unique challenges they present for large commercial vehicles. We understand the patterns of trucking accidents in Real County and how to build strong cases for our clients.

Comprehensive Understanding of FMCSA Regulations

We have a deep understanding of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399). We know how to identify violations that prove negligence and strengthen your case.

Experience Holding Trucking Companies Accountable

We’ve held trucking companies accountable for:

Negligent hiring
Negligent training
Negligent supervision
Negligent maintenance
Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service
Falsifying log books
Destroying evidence

Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions for Texas families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. Our results include:

$5+ Million – Logging Brain Injury Settlement
$3.8+ Million – Car Accident Amputation Settlement
$2+ Million – Maritime Back Injury Settlement
$2.5M – Truck Crash Recovery
Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases
$10M Lawsuit Filed – Hazing Litigation
$50+ Million recovered for Texas families

24/7 Availability for Legal Emergencies

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. We answer calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When disaster strikes, you need a Legal Emergency Lawyer™ who fights like your future depends on it – because it does.

Offices Across Texas

With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we’re never far from Leakey. We regularly handle trucking cases throughout Texas and have the resources to travel to you.

Fluent Spanish Services

Many trucking accident victims in Leakey speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español.

Client Satisfaction

We treat our clients like family. Our 4.9-star Google rating with 251+ reviews speaks to our commitment to client service and results.

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

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

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

What Our Clients Say About Us

“I was rear-ended and the team got right to work… I also got a very nice settlement.”
— MONGO SLADE

“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

“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

“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

“Ralph took his bogus case and had it dismissed within a WEEK! I have been trying for over 2 years.”
— Beth Bonds

“Ralph Manginello is indeed the best attorney I ever had. He cares greatly about his results.”
— AMAZIAH A.T.

“Mr. Maginello and his firm are first class. Will fight tooth and nail for you.”
— Ernest Cano

“Mr. Manginello guided me through the whole process with great expertise… tenacious, accessible, and determined throughout the 19 months.”
— Jamin Marroquin

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer… Ralph reached out personally.”
— Dame Haskett

“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris

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

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

“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day… it only took 6 months amazing.”
— Chavodrian Miles

“Leonor is the best!!! She was able to assist me with my case within 6 months.”
— Tymesha Galloway

“When I felt I had no hope or direction, Leonor reached out to me… She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.”
— Stephanie Hernandez

“Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.”
— Celia Dominguez

“One of Houston’s Great Men Trae Tha Truth has recommended this law firm. So if he is vouching for them then I know they do good work.”
— Jacqueline Johnson

Take Action Now: Your Future Depends on It

If you or someone you love has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Leakey, time is not on your side. Evidence is disappearing with every passing hour. The trucking company’s legal team is already working to protect their interests. You need someone fighting for you.

At Attorney911, we have the experience, resources, and determination to take on the trucking industry and win. We know Leakey’s roads, we understand the unique challenges of Real County’s trucking corridors, and we have a proven track record of securing maximum compensation for our clients.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

We answer calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When you call, you’ll speak with a real person – not an automated system. We’ll evaluate your case, explain your rights, and take immediate action to preserve critical evidence.

Remember:

We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win
We advance all costs of investigation and litigation
We have a former insurance defense attorney on our team
We’ve recovered millions for Texas trucking accident victims
We treat our clients like family

Don’t let the trucking company win. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911.

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.

Your fight starts with one call. We’ll handle the rest.