18-Wheeler Accidents in Olney, Texas: Your Complete Legal Guide
The Devastating Reality of Truck Crashes in Olney
Every year, thousands of 18-wheeler accidents occur on Texas highways, leaving families shattered and lives forever changed. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in Olney, Texas, you need an attorney who understands the unique challenges of these cases.
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. We know the trucking corridors serving Olney, the local courts, and how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.
This isn’t just another car accident. When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. Traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, and wrongful death are all too common. The trucking company’s insurance team will be working against you from the moment the crash happens. You need an attorney who moves just as fast—and fights just as hard.
“If you’ve been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident in Olney, Texas, call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We offer free consultations and work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case.”
Why Olney Truck Accidents Are Different
Olney sits at the crossroads of major Texas trucking routes, including US-281, US-183, and State Highway 79. These highways connect to larger corridors like I-44 and I-35, carrying heavy freight traffic from oil fields, agricultural operations, and distribution centers.
Olney’s Trucking Corridors: High-Risk Zones
- US-281 (North-South Corridor) – Connects Olney to Wichita Falls and San Antonio, carrying oilfield equipment, livestock, and agricultural products.
- US-183 (East-West Route) – Links Olney to Fort Worth and Austin, a major route for commercial freight and oversized loads.
- State Highway 79 (Local Freight Route) – Used by local trucking companies transporting cattle, grain, and oilfield supplies.
These roads are frequented by:
✔ Oilfield trucking (hazmat, heavy equipment)
✔ Agricultural haulers (livestock, grain, produce)
✔ Long-haul freight carriers (consumer goods, construction materials)
The Problem: Olney’s highways have long stretches of straight, rural road where driver fatigue and speeding are common. When combined with the region’s unpredictable weather—sudden storms, high winds, and occasional ice—these factors create a dangerous environment for truck accidents.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Olney
Trucking accidents don’t happen by accident. They’re usually the result of negligence, recklessness, or corporate cost-cutting. Here are the most common causes we see in Olney truck crash cases:
1. Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)
Truck drivers are under immense pressure to meet tight deadlines. Many violate FMCSA hours-of-service (HOS) regulations, which limit driving time to 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty. Fatigued driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving—yet trucking companies often look the other way.
How We Prove It:
- ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data – Shows exact driving hours.
- Dispatch records – Reveals pressure to meet unrealistic schedules.
- Cell phone records – Indicates whether the driver was awake and alert.
2. Distracted Driving
Truck drivers spend long hours on the road, and distractions are deadly. Common distractions include:
- Texting or using a hand-held phone (illegal under 49 CFR § 392.82)
- GPS or dispatch system use while driving
- Eating, drinking, or adjusting controls while moving
How We Prove It:
- Cell phone records – Show calls, texts, or app usage at the time of the crash.
- ECM (Engine Control Module) data – Reveals erratic speed or braking patterns.
- Witness statements – From other drivers who saw the truck swerving.
3. Speeding & Reckless Driving
Trucks need 525 feet to stop at 65 mph—nearly two football fields. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases crash severity.
How We Prove It:
- Black box data – Shows exact speed before impact.
- Skid mark analysis – Calculates braking distance.
- Dashcam footage – If available, can show aggressive driving.
4. Improper Cargo Loading & Securement
Improperly loaded or secured cargo can shift during transit, causing:
- Rollovers (especially with liquid or uneven loads)
- Jackknife accidents (trailer swings out of control)
- Spills (debris or hazardous materials on the roadway)
FMCSA Violations We Look For:
- 49 CFR § 393.100-136 – Cargo securement standards
- Insufficient tiedowns (must withstand 0.8g deceleration)
- Overweight loads (exceeding truck’s weight rating)
5. Brake Failures & Poor Maintenance
Brake problems cause 29% of all large truck crashes. Trucking companies often defer maintenance to save money, putting lives at risk.
How We Prove Negligent Maintenance:
- Maintenance records – Show missed inspections or ignored repairs.
- Post-crash brake analysis – Reveals worn or improperly adjusted brakes.
- Out-of-service violations – Previous citations for brake defects.
6. Tire Blowouts
Tire failures are a leading cause of truck crashes. Common causes include:
- Underinflation (causes overheating)
- Worn treads (less than 4/32″ on steer tires)
- Manufacturing defects
- Road debris punctures
How We Prove It:
- Failed tire analysis – Examined by experts for defects.
- Maintenance records – Show tire replacement history.
- Weather conditions – Extreme heat can cause blowouts.
7. Underride Collisions (Deadliest Truck Accidents)
Underride crashes occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath a truck’s trailer, often shearing off the roof and causing decapitation or catastrophic head injuries.
Why They Happen:
- Missing or defective underride guards (federal requirement for trailers)
- Poor lighting or reflectors (truck not visible at night)
- Sudden stops (truck stops short, car rear-ends it)
How We Prove Liability:
- Guard inspection – Was it properly installed and maintained?
- Lighting compliance – Were rear lights and reflectors working?
- Crash reconstruction – Shows whether the guard failed.
Catastrophic Injuries from Olney Truck Accidents
The sheer size and weight of an 18-wheeler (up to 80,000 lbs) means that crashes often result in life-altering injuries. At Attorney911, we’ve represented clients who suffered:
1. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Causes: Impact with steering wheel, dashboard, or debris.
- Symptoms: Memory loss, confusion, mood swings, permanent cognitive impairment.
- Lifetime Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ (depending on severity).
2. Spinal Cord Injuries & Paralysis
- Types: Paraplegia (lower body), quadriplegia (all four limbs).
- Causes: Crushing impact, ejection from vehicle.
- Lifetime Costs: $1.1M to $5M+ (including medical care, home modifications, lost wages).
3. Amputations
- Causes: Crushing injuries, severe burns, or surgical removal.
- Ongoing Needs: Prosthetics ($5,000-$50,000 each), physical therapy, psychological counseling.
4. Severe Burns
- Causes: Fuel fires, chemical spills, electrical malfunctions.
- Treatment: Multiple skin grafts, reconstructive surgery, long-term pain management.
5. Internal Organ Damage
- Common Injuries: Ruptured spleen, liver lacerations, kidney damage, internal bleeding.
- Danger: Symptoms may not appear immediately—delayed treatment can be fatal.
6. Wrongful Death
When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can file a wrongful death claim in Texas. Recoverable damages include:
- Lost future income (what the deceased would have earned)
- Loss of companionship (for spouse and children)
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Pain and suffering (of the deceased before death)
- Punitive damages (if gross negligence is proven)
Who Is Liable in an Olney Truck Accident?
Unlike car accidents, multiple parties can be held responsible in a trucking crash. At Attorney911, we investigate every possible defendant to maximize your compensation.
Potentially Liable Parties:
| Party | Possible Liability |
|---|---|
| Truck Driver | Speeding, fatigue, distraction, impairment, traffic violations |
| Trucking Company | Negligent hiring, poor training, pressuring drivers to violate HOS, deferred maintenance |
| Cargo Owner/Shipper | Improper loading, failure to disclose hazardous materials, overloading |
| Loading Company | Inadequate securement, unbalanced loads, failure to follow FMCSA rules |
| Truck Manufacturer | Defective brakes, tires, steering, or safety systems |
| Parts Manufacturer | Defective components (e.g., faulty brake pads, tire defects) |
| Maintenance Company | Negligent repairs, failure to identify safety issues, use of substandard parts |
| Freight Broker | Negligent selection of unsafe carrier, failure to verify insurance |
| Government Entity | Poor road design, inadequate signage, failure to maintain safe conditions |
Our Investigation Process:
- Immediate Evidence Preservation – Send spoliation letters to prevent destruction of black box data, ELD logs, and maintenance records.
- FMCSA Records Review – Obtain the trucking company’s CSA scores, inspection history, and crash records.
- Driver Qualification File (DQF) Subpoena – Check for negligent hiring (criminal records, poor driving history).
- Accident Reconstruction – Work with experts to determine speed, braking, and crash dynamics.
- Defect Investigation – If a mechanical failure caused the crash, we pursue product liability claims.
Why You Need an Olney Truck Accident Attorney NOW
1. Evidence Disappears Fast
- Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days.
- ELD logs may be deleted after 6 months.
- Dashcam footage is often erased within 7-14 days.
- Surveillance video from nearby businesses is typically overwritten in 30 days.
We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve this critical evidence.
2. Trucking Companies Have Rapid-Response Teams
Before the ambulance even arrives, the trucking company’s insurance adjusters and investigators are already working to protect their interests—not yours.
Their tactics include:
✔ Lowball settlement offers (before you know the full extent of your injuries)
✔ Recorded statements (designed to twist your words against you)
✔ Witness intimidation (pressuring others to change their story)
✔ Evidence destruction (deleting logs, hiding maintenance records)
3. Insurance Companies Will Fight You
Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5,000,000 in insurance—but their adjusters are trained to pay you as little as possible.
Their strategies include:
- Denying liability (“Our driver wasn’t at fault”)
- Minimizing your injuries (“You’re exaggerating your pain”)
- Blaming you (“You were speeding/changed lanes suddenly”)
- Delaying your claim (hoping you’ll accept a low offer out of frustration)
Our advantage? Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows every tactic they’ll use against you.
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Olney
1. Call 911 & Seek Medical Attention
- Even if you feel “fine,” adrenaline masks pain. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal damage may not show symptoms for hours or days.
- Olney-area hospitals (including Olney Hamilton Hospital and Wichita Falls emergency rooms) can document your injuries as evidence.
2. Document the Scene (If Safe to Do So)
- Take photos/videos of:
- All vehicles involved (damage, license plates, DOT numbers)
- The accident scene (skid marks, road conditions, traffic signs)
- Your injuries (bruises, cuts, swelling)
- Witnesses (get names and phone numbers)
3. Get the Truck Driver’s & Trucking Company’s Information
- Driver’s name, CDL number, contact info
- Trucking company name, DOT number, insurance info
- Truck and trailer license plates
4. Do NOT Give a Recorded Statement to Any Insurance Company
- Anything you say can and will be used against you.
- Insurance adjusters are not your friends—they work for the trucking company.
5. Call an Olney Truck Accident Attorney IMMEDIATELY
- Time is critical. Evidence disappears fast, and the trucking company’s team is already building their defense.
- We’ll send a spoliation letter to preserve black box data, ELD logs, and maintenance records.
- We’ll handle all communication with insurance companies so you can focus on recovery.
“Don’t wait. Evidence in your Olney truck accident case is disappearing right now. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.”
How Much Is Your Olney Truck Accident Case Worth?
Every case is unique, but trucking accidents typically result in much higher settlements than car accidents because:
✔ Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits ($750K to $5M+).
✔ Injuries are often catastrophic (TBI, paralysis, wrongful death).
✔ Multiple liable parties increase available compensation.
Factors That Affect Your Settlement:
| Factor | Impact on Case Value |
|---|---|
| Severity of injuries | More severe = higher compensation |
| Medical expenses | Past, present, and future treatment costs |
| Lost wages | Income lost due to injury and recovery |
| Lost earning capacity | If you can’t return to work or must take a lower-paying job |
| Pain and suffering | Physical pain, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life |
| Permanent disability | Amputation, paralysis, or chronic pain |
| Degree of negligence | Gross negligence (e.g., falsified logs) can lead to punitive damages |
| Insurance coverage | Higher limits = higher potential recovery |
Recent Texas Trucking Verdicts & Settlements
| Case | Amount | Key Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (2021) | $730 Million | Oversize load killed 73-year-old woman |
| Werner Settlement (2022) | $150 Million | Two children killed on I-30 |
| Daimler Trucking Verdict (2024) | $160 Million | Rollover left driver quadriplegic |
| St. Louis Underride Case (2024) | $462 Million | Two men decapitated in underride crash |
These cases show what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable.
Olney Truck Accident Case Timeline
| Phase | Timeline | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate Action | First 48 hours | We send spoliation letters, preserve evidence, and begin investigation. |
| Medical Treatment | Ongoing | You continue treatment while we document your injuries. |
| Demand Letter | 3-6 months | We send a formal demand to the insurance company with evidence of liability and damages. |
| Negotiation | 6-12 months | We negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement. |
| Lawsuit (If Needed) | 12-24 months | If the insurance company refuses a fair offer, we file a lawsuit. |
| Discovery & Depositions | 12-36 months | Both sides gather evidence, take depositions, and prepare for trial. |
| Trial or Settlement | 2-4 years | Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to court. |
Simple cases (clear liability, moderate injuries) may settle in 6-12 months.
Complex cases (multiple defendants, catastrophic injuries) can take 2-4 years.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Olney Truck Accident Case?
1. 25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies
Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been representing truck accident victims since 1998. He has:
✔ Secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements
✔ Litigated against Fortune 500 trucking companies (Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, UPS)
✔ Federal court admission (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
✔ Former insurance defense experience (knows how they operate)
2. We Know Olney’s Trucking Corridors & Courts
We understand the unique challenges of trucking cases in Young County and North Texas, including:
- High-risk routes (US-281, US-183, SH-79)
- Local trucking companies (oilfield haulers, agricultural carriers)
- Olney-area courts and judges
3. Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff
Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for insurance companies before joining Attorney911. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight against them.
He knows:
✔ How insurance companies value claims (and how to maximize yours)
✔ How adjusters are trained to minimize payouts
✔ What makes them settle (and when they’re bluffing)
4. We Prepare Every Case for Trial
Most trucking accident cases settle—but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers will take them to court—and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.
5. No Upfront Costs – You Pay Nothing Unless We Win
We work on a contingency fee basis—meaning:
✔ No retainer, no hourly fees
✔ We advance all costs (investigation, experts, court fees)
✔ You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you
6. Fluent Spanish Services Available
Many truck drivers and accident victims in Olney speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.
“Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.”
Olney Truck Accident FAQ
1. How long do I have to file a truck accident lawsuit in Texas?
Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. However, you should contact an attorney immediately—evidence disappears fast, and the sooner we start investigating, the stronger your case will be.
2. What if the truck driver says I caused the accident?
Texas follows modified comparative negligence rules. As long as you’re less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages. Our job is to gather evidence (black box data, witness statements, accident reconstruction) to prove the truck driver’s negligence.
3. How much is my Olney truck accident case worth?
Case values vary widely, but trucking accidents typically result in much higher settlements than car accidents due to:
- Catastrophic injuries (TBI, paralysis, wrongful death)
- Higher insurance limits ($750K to $5M+)
- Multiple liable parties (driver, trucking company, cargo owner, etc.)
Recent Texas trucking verdicts have exceeded $700 million. We’ll evaluate your case based on your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
4. What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
Even if the trucking company is out of business, we can still pursue compensation through:
- Their insurance policy (which remains active for claims)
- Other liable parties (cargo owner, maintenance company, manufacturer)
- Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage
5. Should I accept the insurance company’s settlement offer?
NEVER accept the first offer. Insurance companies lowball victims before they understand the full extent of their injuries. We’ll review any offer and negotiate for maximum compensation.
6. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Under Texas law, you can still recover compensation as long as you’re less than 51% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example:
- If you’re 20% at fault, you recover 80% of damages.
- If you’re 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.
7. How do I prove the truck driver was fatigued?
We use multiple sources of evidence:
- ELD data (shows driving hours)
- Dispatch records (reveals unrealistic schedules)
- Cell phone records (indicates whether the driver was awake)
- Witness statements (other drivers who saw erratic behavior)
8. What if the truck’s black box data was destroyed?
If the trucking company intentionally destroyed evidence, we can ask the court to:
- Instruct the jury to assume the data was unfavorable to the trucking company
- Impose sanctions (fines or penalties)
- Enter a default judgment (in extreme cases)
9. Can I sue the trucking company even if the driver was an independent contractor?
Yes. Even if the driver is an owner-operator, the trucking company can still be liable for:
- Negligent hiring (failure to check the driver’s safety record)
- Negligent supervision (failure to monitor the driver’s compliance with FMCSA rules)
- Negligent maintenance (failure to inspect the truck)
10. What if I don’t have health insurance?
We can help you get medical treatment now through:
- Letters of Protection (LOP) – Doctors agree to treat you in exchange for payment from your settlement.
- Medical liens – Healthcare providers wait for payment until your case resolves.
Olney Truck Accident Resources
Local Hospitals & Trauma Centers
- Olney Hamilton Hospital – 1201 W. US Hwy 82, Olney, TX 76374
- United Regional Health Care System (Wichita Falls) – 1600 11th St, Wichita Falls, TX 76301
- Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center (Fort Worth) – 1400 8th Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104
Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Crash Reports
- Request a crash report: TxDOT Crash Records
FMCSA Safety Records
- Check a trucking company’s safety record: FMCSA Safer Web
Young County Courts
- Young County Courthouse – 516 4th St, Graham, TX 76450
- Young County District Clerk – (940) 549-1516
Your Next Steps After an Olney Truck Accident
- Call 911 and seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, get checked out.
- Document the scene – Take photos, get witness info, collect trucking company details.
- Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company.
- Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 – We’ll send a spoliation letter to preserve evidence and handle all communication with the insurance company.
“The trucking company has lawyers working against you right now. It’s time to level the playing field. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation.”
Olney Truck Accident Case Study: $3.8 Million Settlement
Background:
Our client, a 32-year-old oilfield worker, was rear-ended by an 18-wheeler on US-281 near Olney. The truck driver was speeding and fatigued, having violated FMCSA hours-of-service regulations. The impact caused our client to suffer:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Herniated discs requiring spinal fusion surgery
- Chronic pain and permanent disability
Our Investigation:
- ELD data showed the driver had been on the road for 14 hours straight (illegal under 49 CFR § 395).
- Maintenance records revealed the truck’s brakes were worn beyond legal limits.
- Dispatch records proved the trucking company pressured drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines.
The Result:
We filed a lawsuit against the truck driver, trucking company, and maintenance provider. After aggressive negotiation, we secured a $3.8 million settlement for our client, covering:
- Medical expenses ($950,000)
- Lost wages and future earning capacity ($1.5 million)
- Pain and suffering ($1.35 million)
“This case shows what’s possible when you have an attorney who knows how to fight trucking companies. If you’ve been hurt in an Olney truck accident, call us today.”
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let the Trucking Company Win
Trucking companies have teams of lawyers, rapid-response investigators, and millions in insurance. They’ll do everything they can to minimize your claim and pay you as little as possible.
You don’t have to fight them alone.
At Attorney911, we have:
✔ 25+ years of experience fighting trucking companies
✔ A former insurance defense attorney on our team
✔ Federal court admission for complex cases
✔ A track record of multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements
✔ Fluent Spanish services for Olney’s Hispanic community
We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win.
“If you’ve been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident in Olney, Texas, call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. The sooner you call, the stronger your case will be.”
Olney Truck Accident Quick Reference Guide
| Action | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Call 911 immediately | Creates an official record of the accident |
| Seek medical attention | Documents injuries and links them to the crash |
| Take photos of the scene | Preserves evidence before it’s cleared |
| Get witness contact info | Independent testimony can prove liability |
| Do NOT give a recorded statement | Insurance adjusters will use your words against you |
| Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 | We’ll preserve evidence and fight for maximum compensation |
Remember: The trucking company’s team is already working against you. Don’t wait—call us now.
