18-Wheeler Accidents in Lorena, Texas: What You Need to Know

Every year, thousands of 18-wheeler accidents occur on Central Texas highways. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in Lorena, 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 McLennan County for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. We know the trucking corridors serving Lorena, from I-35 to the distribution centers in Waco, and we understand the unique challenges that trucking accidents present in our community.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different in Lorena

Lorena sits at the crossroads of major trucking activity in Central Texas. The I-35 corridor, which runs through nearby Waco, is one of the busiest freight routes in the country, connecting Mexico to Canada. This means Lorena residents face daily exposure to heavy truck traffic, including:

• Long-haul trucks traveling between Dallas and Austin
• Local distribution trucks serving Waco’s growing warehouse industry
• Agricultural trucks transporting goods from rural areas
• Oilfield equipment haulers serving the Eagle Ford Shale region

The massive size and weight of these vehicles create unique dangers for Lorena drivers. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds – that’s 20-25 times heavier than the average passenger vehicle. When these trucks are involved in accidents, the results are often catastrophic.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Lorena

Our experience handling trucking cases in McLennan County has revealed several common causes of 18-wheeler accidents in the Lorena area:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Truck drivers are subject to strict federal hours of service regulations designed to prevent fatigue-related accidents. These rules, established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), limit driving time and require mandatory rest periods. However, many drivers and trucking companies in the Lorena area violate these regulations to meet tight delivery schedules.

Under 49 CFR § 395, property-carrying drivers are limited to:

• 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• A 14-hour on-duty window after coming on duty
• A 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-hour weekly limits

When trucking companies pressure drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines, drivers often falsify their electronic logging device (ELD) records to conceal violations. These violations are a leading cause of fatigue-related accidents on I-35 and other Lorena-area highways.

Improper Maintenance and Brake Failures

Brake failures are a significant factor in many 18-wheeler accidents in Central Texas. The long, steep grades on I-35 and other area highways put tremendous stress on truck braking systems. When maintenance is deferred to save costs, brake systems can fail, leading to catastrophic accidents.

FMCSA regulations require systematic inspection and maintenance of all commercial motor vehicles. Under 49 CFR § 396.3, motor carriers must maintain records showing:

• Vehicle identification
• Schedule for inspection and maintenance
• Records of repairs and maintenance

When we investigate trucking accidents in Lorena, we subpoena these maintenance records to identify patterns of deferred maintenance that may have contributed to the crash.

Cargo Securement Failures

Improperly secured cargo is a major safety hazard on Lorena-area highways. When cargo shifts during transit, it can cause the truck to become unstable, leading to rollover accidents or loss of control. Cargo that falls from trucks creates additional hazards for other vehicles.

FMCSA regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) establish strict cargo securement standards. These rules require:

• Cargo to be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent shifting
• Securement systems to withstand specific forces
• Proper use of tiedowns, blocking, and bracing
• Special requirements for different types of cargo

When we investigate cargo-related accidents in Lorena, we examine loading records, securement equipment, and compliance with these regulations.

Distracted and Impaired Driving

Distracted driving is a growing problem among commercial truck drivers. The use of mobile phones, GPS devices, and in-cab electronics diverts drivers’ attention from the road. Under 49 CFR § 392.82, drivers are prohibited from using hand-held mobile telephones while driving.

Impaired driving is another serious concern. While commercial drivers are subject to strict drug and alcohol testing requirements, some drivers still operate vehicles while under the influence. Under 49 CFR § 392.4 and § 392.5, drivers are prohibited from:

• Being under the influence of alcohol (.04 BAC or higher)
• Using any Schedule I substance
• Using any substance that renders them incapable of safe driving

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents Common in Lorena

The unique geography and traffic patterns in the Lorena area contribute to specific types of 18-wheeler accidents:

Rear-End Collisions on I-35

I-35 is one of the most dangerous highways in Texas, with a high rate of rear-end collisions involving 18-wheelers. These accidents often occur when:

• Trucks follow too closely in heavy traffic
• Drivers are distracted or fatigued
• Brake systems fail on long descents
• Sudden traffic slowdowns catch drivers by surprise

Rear-end collisions are particularly dangerous for passenger vehicles. The massive weight of an 18-wheeler means it requires significantly more stopping distance than a car. At 65 mph, a fully loaded truck needs approximately 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields.

Rollover Accidents on Highway Exits

Lorena’s proximity to Waco means many trucks exit and enter the highway system in our area. These exit and entrance ramps are common sites for rollover accidents, especially when:

• Drivers take curves at excessive speed
• Cargo is improperly secured
• Liquid cargo shifts during turns
• Drivers overcorrect after running off the road

Rollover accidents are among the most catastrophic trucking accidents. When an 80,000-pound truck tips onto its side or roof, it can crush vehicles in adjacent lanes and spill cargo across the highway.

Underride Collisions at Intersections

Underride collisions occur when a passenger vehicle crashes into the rear or side of an 18-wheeler and slides underneath the trailer. These accidents are often fatal because the trailer’s height can shear off the top of the passenger vehicle.

In Lorena, underride collisions commonly occur at:

• Highway intersections where trucks turn
• Areas with poor lighting or visibility
• Locations where trucks stop suddenly

Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.86) require rear impact guards on most trailers, but these guards often fail to prevent underride in real-world crashes. Side underride guards are not currently required by federal law, despite their potential to save lives.

Jackknife Accidents on Rural Roads

Lorena’s rural location means many trucks travel on two-lane highways and rural roads. These roads are common sites for jackknife accidents, which occur when:

• Drivers brake suddenly on wet or icy roads
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers swing out
• Drivers overcorrect after running off the road
• Cargo shifts during sudden maneuvers

Jackknife accidents are particularly dangerous because the trailer can swing across multiple lanes of traffic, creating a barrier that other vehicles cannot avoid.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Lorena 18-Wheeler Accident?

One of the most important aspects of trucking accident cases is identifying all potentially liable parties. Unlike car accidents, where typically only one driver is at fault, 18-wheeler accidents often involve multiple responsible parties. At Attorney911, we thoroughly investigate every case to identify all parties who may be liable for your injuries.

The Truck Driver

The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable for their negligent conduct. Common driver-related factors in Lorena trucking accidents include:

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

The Trucking Company

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

Vicarious Liability:
Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. This means the trucking company can be held responsible for the driver’s actions.

Direct Negligence:
Trucking companies can also be directly liable for:

• Negligent Hiring: Failing to check the driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
• Negligent Training: Providing inadequate training on safety, cargo securement, or hours of service
• Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance or compliance with regulations
• Negligent Maintenance: Failing to maintain vehicles in safe condition
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service regulations

Cargo Owners and Shippers

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

• They provided improper loading instructions
• They failed to disclose the hazardous nature of the cargo
• They required overweight loading
• They pressured the carrier to expedite delivery beyond safe limits

Cargo Loading Companies

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

• Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

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

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

Parts Manufacturers

Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for:

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

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

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

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, federal, state, or local government may be liable for:

• 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

The Critical 48-Hour Window: Preserving Evidence in Your Lorena Trucking Case

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

Why 48 Hours Matters

The Spoliation Letter: Your First Line of Defense

A spoliation letter is a formal legal notice sent to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence related to the accident.

At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained. This immediate action puts the trucking company on legal notice that destroying evidence will result in serious consequences, including:

• Adverse inference instructions (jury told to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable)
• Sanctions and monetary penalties
• Default judgment in extreme cases
• Punitive damages for intentional destruction

What Evidence We Demand to Preserve

Electronic Data:

• Engine Control Module (ECM) / Electronic Control Unit (ECU) data
• Event Data Recorder (EDR) data
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
• GPS and telematics data
• Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
• Dispatch communications and messaging
• Cell phone records and text messages
• Qualcomm or fleet management system data

Driver Records:

• Complete Driver Qualification File
• Employment application and resume
• Background check and driving record
• Previous employer verification
• Medical certification and exam records
• Drug and alcohol test results (pre-employment and random)
• Training records and certifications
• Previous accident and violation history
• Performance reviews and disciplinary records

Vehicle Records:

• Maintenance and repair records
• Inspection reports (pre-trip, post-trip, annual)
• Out-of-service orders and repairs
• Tire records and replacement history
• Brake inspection and adjustment records
• Parts purchase and installation records

Company Records:

• Hours of service records for 6 months prior
• Dispatch logs and trip records
• Bills of lading and cargo documentation
• Insurance policies
• Safety policies and procedures
• Training curricula
• Hiring and supervision policies

Physical Evidence:

• The truck and trailer themselves
• Failed or damaged components
• Cargo and securement devices
• Tire remnants if blowout involved

Catastrophic Injuries Common in Lorena 18-Wheeler Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. The size and weight disparity between trucks and passenger vehicles means that when these accidents occur, the results are often devastating.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Cause Catastrophic Injuries

Size and Weight Disparity:

• Fully loaded 18-wheeler: Up to 80,000 lbs
• Average passenger car: 3,500-4,000 lbs
• The truck is 20-25 times heavier than your car

Impact Force:

• Force = Mass × Acceleration
• An 80,000 lb truck at 65 mph carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a car
• This energy transfers to the smaller vehicle in a crash

Stopping Distance:

• 18-wheeler at 65 mph needs ~525 feet to stop (nearly 2 football fields)
• Car at 65 mph needs ~300 feet to stop
• This 40% longer stopping distance means trucks cannot avoid obstacles as quickly

Types of Catastrophic Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI):
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:

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

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

Spinal Cord Injury:
Damage to the spinal cord that disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of Paralysis:

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+

Amputation:
Amputations can occur traumatically at the scene or surgically when limbs are too severely damaged to save.

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

Severe Burns:
Burns in 18-wheeler accidents often result from:

• 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:

Internal Organ Damage:
Common internal injuries include:

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

Wrongful Death:
When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can bring a wrongful death claim. In Texas, eligible claimants include:

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

Damages Available:

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

FMCSA Regulations: The Key to Proving Negligence in Your Lorena Trucking Case

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates all commercial motor vehicles operating in interstate commerce. These regulations, found in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR), establish safety standards that trucking companies and drivers must follow.

When trucking companies violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that cause catastrophic accidents. Proving FMCSA violations is often the key to establishing negligence and securing maximum compensation in your Lorena trucking accident case.

The 6 Critical Parts of FMCSA Regulations

Part 391: Driver Qualification Standards

FMCSA regulations establish minimum qualifications for commercial drivers. Trucking companies must maintain a Driver Qualification (DQ) File for every driver containing:

• Employment application
• Motor Vehicle Record
• Road test certificate or equivalent
• Medical examiner’s certificate
• Annual driving record review
• Previous employer inquiries
• Drug and alcohol test records

Common Violations We Find in Lorena Cases:

• Incomplete or missing DQ files
• Failure to verify previous employment
• Failure to check driving records
• Hiring drivers with poor safety records
• Failure to conduct required medical examinations

Part 392: Driving of Commercial Motor Vehicles

This part establishes rules for the safe operation of commercial vehicles, including:

• 49 CFR § 392.3: Prohibits driving while fatigued or ill
• 49 CFR § 392.4: Prohibits drug use while driving
• 49 CFR § 392.5: Prohibits alcohol use within 4 hours of driving
• 49 CFR § 392.6: Prohibits scheduling runs that require speeding
• 49 CFR § 392.11: Prohibits following too closely
• 49 CFR § 392.82: Prohibits hand-held mobile phone use

Common Violations in Lorena Cases:

• Drivers using cell phones while driving
• Following too closely in heavy traffic
• Operating while fatigued
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Part 393: Parts and Accessories for Safe Operation

This part establishes equipment and cargo securement standards, including:

• 49 CFR § 393.100-136: Cargo securement requirements
• 49 CFR § 393.40-55: Brake system requirements
• 49 CFR § 393.11-26: Lighting requirements

Common Violations in Lorena Cases:

• Improperly secured cargo
• Worn or improperly adjusted brakes
• Non-functioning lights or reflectors
• Missing or damaged underride guards

Part 395: Hours of Service Regulations

These regulations limit driving time and require rest periods to prevent fatigue. They are among the most commonly violated regulations in trucking accidents.

Property-Carrying Drivers (Most 18-Wheelers):

Common Violations in Lorena Cases:

• Driving beyond the 11-hour limit
• Falsifying ELD records
• Not taking required 30-minute breaks
• Exceeding weekly driving limits

Part 396: Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

This part requires systematic inspection and maintenance of commercial vehicles. Trucking companies must maintain records showing:

• Vehicle identification
• Schedule for inspection and maintenance
• Records of repairs and maintenance

Common Violations in Lorena Cases:

• Failure to conduct required inspections
• Deferred maintenance on critical systems
• Failure to repair known defects
• Inadequate recordkeeping

How We Investigate Your Lorena 18-Wheeler Accident

At Attorney911, we conduct thorough investigations of every 18-wheeler accident in the Lorena area. Our process includes:

Immediate Evidence Preservation

• Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
• Demand preservation of ECM, ELD, and maintenance records
• Secure physical evidence before repair or disposal

FMCSA Records Review

• Obtain the carrier’s complete safety record
• Review CSA scores and inspection history
• Identify patterns of violations

Driver Qualification File Subpoena

• Employment application and background check
• Driving record and previous employers
• Medical certification and drug test history
• Training documentation

Corporate Structure Analysis

• Identify all related companies
• Determine owner-operator vs. employee status
• Map insurance coverage for each entity

Accident Reconstruction

• Retain expert engineers
• Analyze ECM and ELD data
• Determine sequence of events and contributing factors

Defect Investigation

• Preserve failed components
• Research recall and complaint history
• Retain product liability experts if warranted

What Your Lorena 18-Wheeler Accident Case Is Worth

The value of your 18-wheeler accident case depends on many factors, including:

• Severity of Injuries: More severe injuries result in higher compensation
• Medical Expenses: Both past and future medical costs
• Lost Income: Past wages lost and future earning capacity
• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress
• Degree of Defendant’s Negligence: Gross negligence may support punitive damages
• Insurance Coverage Available: Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits

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 in coverage.

Types of Damages Available

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):

• Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
• Lost wages
• Lost earning capacity
• Property damage
• Out-of-pocket expenses
• Life care costs

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life):

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

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)

Recent Trucking Verdicts and Settlements

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

These verdicts show that juries are willing to hold trucking companies accountable for negligence, especially when they find evidence of systematic safety violations or corporate misconduct.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Lorena 18-Wheeler Accident Case

When you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Lorena, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team with the experience, resources, and determination to fight for maximum compensation. Here’s why Lorena residents choose Attorney911:

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He has:

• Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for trucking accident victims
• Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Experience in BP explosion litigation against multinational corporations
• Deep familiarity with Lorena trucking corridors and accident patterns

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

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

Proven Track Record of Results

We’ve recovered millions for Lorena-area trucking accident victims, including:

• $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
• $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement
• $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
• $2+ Million – Maritime back injury settlement
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

Comprehensive Investigation Resources

We have the resources to thoroughly investigate your Lorena trucking accident, including:

• Immediate evidence preservation protocols
• Access to top accident reconstruction experts
• Relationships with medical specialists
• Experience with complex trucking litigation

Personal Attention and Compassion

At Attorney911, we treat our clients like family. We understand that you’re going through one of the most difficult times in your life, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. You’re not just another case number to us.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation, so you never receive a bill from us.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Lorena

If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Lorena, take these steps to protect your rights:

1. Call 911 and report the accident – Even if injuries seem minor, a police report creates an official record.
2. Seek medical attention immediately – Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries and TBI may not show symptoms for hours or days.
3. Document the scene – If possible, take photos and videos of:
   • All vehicle damage (inside and out)
   • The accident scene and road conditions
   • Skid marks and debris patterns
   • Your injuries
   • Witness contact information
4. Get the trucking company information – Record the:
   • Truck and trailer license plates
   • DOT number (on truck door)
   • Trucking company name and logo
   • Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
5. Do NOT give recorded statements – Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim.
6. Call Attorney911 immediately – Critical evidence disappears quickly. We’ll send preservation letters to protect your evidence before it’s lost.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lorena 18-Wheeler Accidents

Q: How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Texas?
A: The statute of limitations for personal injury cases 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.

Q: How much is my Lorena 18-wheeler accident case worth?
A: Case values depend on many factors, including injury severity, medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and the degree of the defendant’s negligence. Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.

Q: Will my case go to trial?
A: 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.

Q: What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
A: Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation as long as you were not more than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Q: How long does a trucking accident case take to resolve?
A: 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.

Q: What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?
A: Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first. We’ll evaluate the offer and negotiate for maximum compensation.

Q: Can I sue the trucking company even if the driver was an independent contractor?
A: Yes. Even if the driver was an independent contractor, the trucking company may still be liable for negligent hiring, negligent training, or negligent supervision. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.

Q: What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
A: Trucking companies are required to carry minimum insurance coverage ($750,000 for most trucks). This insurance remains available even if the company goes bankrupt. We also investigate other potentially liable parties to maximize your recovery.

Q: How do I prove the driver was fatigued?
A: We use multiple sources of evidence to prove fatigue, including:

• ELD data showing hours of service violations
• Dispatch records showing unrealistic schedules
• Cell phone records showing late-night communications
• Witness statements about driver behavior
• Expert testimony on fatigue-related impairment

Q: What if the truck’s black box data was destroyed?
A: If the trucking company destroyed evidence after receiving our spoliation letter, we can ask the court to instruct the jury to assume the destroyed evidence was unfavorable to the trucking company. In extreme cases, courts can impose sanctions or even enter default judgment.

Q: Can I access the trucking company’s safety record?
A: Yes. 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.

Q: What if I don’t have health insurance to pay for my medical treatment?
A: We can help connect you with medical providers who will treat you on a lien basis. This means they’ll wait to be paid until your case is resolved. We also work with medical funding companies to help cover your treatment costs during your case.

Lorena Trucking Accident Resources

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Lorena, these resources may be helpful:

Emergency Services:

• Lorena Police Department: (254) 857-4585
• McLennan County Sheriff’s Office: (254) 757-5000
• Providence Healthcare Network (Waco): (254) 751-4000
• Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest Medical Center (Waco): (254) 202-2000

Government Agencies:

• Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): txdot.gov
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): fmcsa.dot.gov
• Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): dps.texas.gov
• McLennan County Courthouse: (254) 757-5000

Trucking Safety Information:

• FMCSA Safety Measurement System (SMS): ai.fmcsa.dot.gov/sms
• FMCSA Company Snapshot: safer.fmcsa.dot.gov
• Texas Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program: txdmv.gov/motor-carriers

Contact Attorney911 for Your Lorena 18-Wheeler Accident Case

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Lorena, Texas, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Every hour you wait, evidence in your case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. Our Lorena trucking accident attorneys offer free consultations and work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Remember:

• We have 25+ years of experience fighting trucking companies
• Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney
• We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims
• We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win
• We offer free consultations and 24/7 availability

Don’t let the trucking company take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911.

“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

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

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