18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Plum Grove, Texas | Attorney911

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Plum Grove, Texas, you need an attorney who understands the unique dangers of Liberty County’s trucking corridors and knows how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

Every year, thousands of catastrophic trucking accidents occur on Texas highways—many right here in Liberty County. The sheer size and weight of 18-wheelers (up to 80,000 pounds) make collisions with passenger vehicles devastating. Victims often suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, severe burns, or wrongful death. If this has happened to you, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a legal emergency response team with the experience, resources, and determination to fight for the full compensation you deserve.

At Attorney911, we specialize in 18-wheeler accident cases in Plum Grove and across Liberty County. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience fighting trucking companies in Texas courtrooms. We’ve secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for victims of trucking accidents, and we know how to preserve critical evidence before it disappears.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We answer 24/7, and we’ll send a spoliation letter immediately to protect your case.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in Plum Grove Are Different

Plum Grove sits at a critical junction of major trucking routes in Liberty County, Texas. The area’s mix of highway traffic, rural roads, and industrial freight corridors creates unique risks for trucking accidents:

• Highway 90 & FM 1011 – Heavy truck traffic from Houston’s port and industrial zones
• Interstate 10 (I-10) – One of the busiest trucking corridors in the U.S., connecting Houston to Beaumont and beyond
• FM 565 & FM 2090 – Rural routes with sudden turns, narrow lanes, and limited lighting
• Local distribution centers & oilfield trucking – Frequent stops, tight schedules, and fatigued drivers
• Weigh stations & truck stops – Areas where drivers may cut corners on inspections or rest breaks

Trucking companies know these risks, but too often, they prioritize profit over safety—leading to fatigued drivers, improperly loaded cargo, neglected maintenance, and reckless speeding. When an 18-wheeler crashes in Plum Grove, the consequences are life-altering.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Plum Grove

Trucking accidents don’t happen by accident. In most cases, they’re the result of negligence, regulatory violations, or corporate cost-cutting. Here are the most common causes we see in Plum Grove and Liberty County:

1. Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)

Federal regulations limit truck drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty. Yet, many drivers falsify their logs or are pressured by their employers to meet unrealistic deadlines.

How we prove it:

• ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data – Shows exact driving hours
• Dispatch records – Reveals pressure to meet tight schedules
• GPS tracking – Confirms whether the driver took required breaks

Example: A driver falls asleep on I-10 near Plum Grove after 14 hours on duty and slams into stopped traffic. The trucking company’s ELD records show they knew the driver was violating hours-of-service rules but did nothing.

2. Distracted Driving

Truck drivers face constant distractions—cell phones, dispatch radios, GPS devices, eating, or even watching videos. Texting while driving is illegal for all commercial drivers (49 CFR § 392.82), yet many still do it.

How we prove it:

• Cell phone records – Show calls or texts at the time of the crash
• Dashcam footage – Captures driver behavior
• Witness testimony – Other drivers who saw the truck swerving

Example: A truck driver in Liberty County reaches for his phone to check a dispatch message, drifts into the wrong lane, and T-bones a family’s SUV on FM 1011.

3. Improper Cargo Loading

When cargo isn’t secured properly, it can shift, spill, or even cause the truck to roll over. This is especially dangerous on rural roads like FM 565, where sharp turns and uneven surfaces increase the risk.

How we prove it:

• Cargo securement records – Shows if tiedowns met FMCSA standards
• Loading dock surveillance – Captures improper loading
• Accident reconstruction – Proves cargo shift caused the crash

Example: A truck carrying steel beams on FM 2090 loses its load, sending debris into oncoming traffic. A pickup truck swerves to avoid the debris and rolls over, killing the driver.

4. Brake Failures & Poor Maintenance

Brakes are the #1 mechanical failure in trucking accidents. The FMCSA requires daily inspections, yet many companies skip maintenance to save money.

How we prove it:

• Maintenance records – Shows deferred repairs
• ECM (Black Box) data – Reveals brake application timing
• Post-crash inspections – Confirms worn or defective brakes

Example: A truck’s brakes fail on a steep downgrade near Plum Grove, causing a rear-end collision with a line of cars at a red light.

5. Underride Collisions (Deadliest Truck Accidents)

When a car slides under a trailer, the top of the vehicle is sheared off, often decapitating or crushing the occupants. These accidents are almost always fatal.

How we prove it:

• Trailer guard inspection – Shows if the underride guard was missing or defective
• Crash dynamics analysis – Proves the guard failed to stop the underride
• Manufacturer records – Reveals whether the truck was properly equipped

Example: A family’s sedan slides under a trailer on Highway 90 near Plum Grove. The top of their car is ripped off, killing all four occupants.

6. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

When a truck swings wide to make a right turn, it can trap smaller vehicles in the gap. These accidents are common in urban areas and intersections like the junction of FM 1011 and FM 565.

How we prove it:

• Dashcam footage – Shows the truck’s turn signal (or lack of it)
• Witness statements – Confirms whether the truck signaled
• ECM data – Reveals the truck’s speed and braking

Example: A truck driver in Plum Grove swings wide to turn right but doesn’t check his mirrors. A motorcyclist gets caught in the gap and is crushed against the curb.

7. Tire Blowouts (Especially in Texas Heat)

Texas summers destroy truck tires. Underinflation, overloading, and worn treads cause blowouts, leading to loss of control, rollovers, or debris striking other vehicles.

How we prove it:

• Tire inspection records – Shows if the tires were properly maintained
• Weight tickets – Confirms if the truck was overloaded
• Failed tire analysis – Identifies manufacturing defects

Example: A truck’s front tire blows out on I-10 near Plum Grove, causing the driver to lose control and jackknife into oncoming traffic.

Who Is Liable in a Plum Grove 18-Wheeler Accident?

Unlike car accidents, trucking crashes often involve multiple liable parties—each with their own insurance policies. At Attorney911, we investigate every possible defendant to maximize your compensation.

1. The Truck Driver

The driver may be liable for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (texting, phone use, dispatch communications)
• Fatigued driving (violating hours-of-service rules)
• Impaired driving (drugs or alcohol)
• Failure to inspect the truck before driving

2. The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

Trucking companies are vicariously liable for their drivers’ actions under respondeat superior. They can also be directly liable for:

• Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified or dangerous drivers)
• Negligent training (failing to train drivers on safety protocols)
• Negligent supervision (not monitoring driver performance)
• Negligent maintenance (ignoring brake, tire, or lighting issues)
• Pressuring drivers to violate HOS rules (forcing drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines)

Example: A Liberty County trucking company hires a driver with a history of DUIs without running a background check. The driver causes a fatal crash while under the influence.

3. The Cargo Owner / Shipper

If the cargo was improperly loaded, overweight, or hazardous, the company that shipped it may share liability.

Example: A chemical company fails to disclose that their cargo is flammable. The truck catches fire after a minor collision, causing severe burns to nearby motorists.

4. The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies can be liable if they:

• Improperly secure the load (leading to shifts or spills)
• Overload the truck (causing brake or tire failures)
• Fail to use proper blocking or bracing

Example: A loading dock crew in Liberty County stacks pallets unevenly, causing the cargo to shift and tip the truck on FM 2090.

5. The Truck or Trailer Manufacturer

If a defective part (brakes, tires, steering, lighting) caused the crash, the manufacturer may be liable under product liability law.

Example: A defective brake line on a new truck leads to a rear-end collision on I-10 near Plum Grove.

6. The Maintenance Company

If a third-party mechanic failed to properly repair the truck, they may share liability.

Example: A repair shop in Liberty County replaces brake pads but doesn’t adjust the calipers, leading to brake failure on Highway 90.

7. The Freight Broker

Freight brokers (companies that arrange transportation) can be liable if they hire unsafe carriers without proper vetting.

Example: A broker hires a trucking company with a history of safety violations to transport goods through Plum Grove. The driver falls asleep at the wheel and causes a fatal crash.

8. Government Entities (Rare, but Possible)

If poor road design, inadequate signage, or lack of maintenance contributed to the crash, a government entity (TxDOT, Liberty County, etc.) may be liable.

Example: A missing guardrail on FM 565 causes a truck to plunge into a ravine, killing the driver.

Why Evidence Disappears Fast in Plum Grove Trucking Cases

Trucking companies start destroying evidence the moment a crash happens. They have rapid-response teams that arrive at accident scenes to protect their interests—not yours. If you don’t act fast, critical evidence will be lost forever.

What Evidence Must Be Preserved?

What We Do Within 48 Hours of Your Call

1. Send a Spoliation Letter – Legally demands the trucking company preserve all evidence.
2. Download ECM/Black Box Data – Secures speed, braking, and engine data before it’s overwritten.
3. Obtain ELD Records – Proves hours-of-service violations and fatigue.
4. Subpoena Cell Phone Records – Confirms distracted driving.
5. Photograph the Truck & Scene – Documents damage, skid marks, and road conditions.
6. Interview Witnesses – Gets statements before memories fade.
7. Hire an Accident Reconstruction Expert – Recreates how the crash happened.

If you wait, this evidence is gone forever. Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 before it’s too late.

Catastrophic Injuries from Plum Grove 18-Wheeler Accidents

The force of an 80,000-pound truck hitting a 4,000-pound car is devastating. Victims often suffer permanent, life-altering injuries that require millions in medical care.

Common 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries

Why These Injuries Are So Costly

• Lifetime medical care (surgeries, rehabilitation, home modifications)
• Lost wages & earning capacity (if you can’t work)
• Pain and suffering (physical and emotional trauma)
• Loss of consortium (impact on family relationships)
• Punitive damages (if the trucking company acted recklessly)

Example: A Plum Grove family is rear-ended by a truck on I-10. Their 8-year-old daughter suffers a traumatic brain injury, requiring lifetime care. We secure a $7.5 million settlement to cover her medical needs.

How Much Is Your Plum Grove Trucking Accident Case Worth?

There’s no “average” settlement for trucking accidents—every case is unique. However, trucking companies carry much higher insurance than regular drivers, which means larger potential recoveries.

Factors That Affect Your Case Value

✅ Severity of injuries (catastrophic injuries = higher value)
✅ Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
✅ Lost wages & earning capacity (if you can’t work)
✅ Pain and suffering (physical and emotional impact)
✅ Degree of negligence (reckless conduct = punitive damages)
✅ Available insurance coverage (trucking companies carry $750K–$5M+)
✅ Evidence strength (ECM data, witness statements, photos)

Recent Texas Trucking Accident Verdicts & Settlements

These cases show what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable. At Attorney911, we fight for maximum compensation—not just what the insurance company offers.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Plum Grove 18-Wheeler Accident Case?

Not all personal injury lawyers are trucking accident specialists. At Attorney911, we have 25+ years of experience handling complex trucking cases in Liberty County and across Texas.

1. We Know Plum Grove’s Trucking Corridors

We’re familiar with:
✔ I-10 & Highway 90 – High-speed truck traffic from Houston’s port
✔ FM 1011 & FM 565 – Rural routes with sudden turns and poor lighting
✔ FM 2090 & FM 563 – Oilfield trucking and industrial freight
✔ Local weigh stations & truck stops – Where drivers cut corners on inspections

We know where accidents happen—and why.

2. We Have Insider Knowledge of Trucking Companies

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who worked for trucking companies before joining our side. He knows exactly how they try to minimize claims—and how to counter their tactics.

What Lupe knows (that other lawyers don’t):

• How insurance adjusters calculate settlement offers
• What makes trucking companies settle for more
• How they train adjusters to lowball victims
• What evidence they try to hide

3. We Preserve Evidence Before It’s Destroyed

We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to freeze all evidence before the trucking company can destroy it. We also:
✔ Download ECM/Black Box data (speed, braking, engine performance)
✔ Obtain ELD records (hours-of-service violations)
✔ Subpoena cell phone records (distracted driving)
✔ Hire accident reconstruction experts
✔ Photograph the truck, scene, and injuries

If you wait, this evidence is gone forever.

4. We Fight for Maximum Compensation

We don’t just settle for the first offer—we build a case for trial to force the trucking company to pay what you truly deserve. Our results speak for themselves:

• $5+ million – Logging brain injury settlement
• $3.8+ million – Car accident amputation settlement
• $2.5+ million – Truck crash recovery
• Millions recovered for wrongful death families

5. We Handle Cases on Contingency—You Pay Nothing Upfront

We work on a contingency fee basis—meaning:
✔ No upfront costs
✔ No fees unless we win
✔ We advance all case expenses
✔ You pay nothing if we don’t recover

You have nothing to lose by calling us.

6. We’re Available 24/7 for Plum Grove Trucking Accidents

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. We answer calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’ll speak with a real attorney—not a case manager or answering service.

7. We Offer Bilingual Services (Hablamos Español)

Many truck drivers and accident victims in Liberty County speak Spanish as their first language. Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, is fluent in Spanish, so you can communicate directly without an interpreter.

¿Hablas español? Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Plum Grove

If you’ve been in a trucking accident, what you do in the first 48 hours can make or break your case. Follow these steps:

1. Call 911 Immediately

• Report the accident and request police and EMS.
• Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out at the hospital.
• Adrenaline masks pain—internal injuries may not be obvious.

2. Document the Scene (If You’re Able)

• Take photos of everything:
  • All vehicles involved (inside and out)
  • License plates (truck and trailer)
  • DOT number (on the truck door)
  • Trucking company name and logo
  • Damage to your vehicle
  • Skid marks and road conditions
  • Traffic signs and signals
  • Your injuries (bruises, cuts, etc.)
• Get witness contact information (names, phone numbers).
• Record the truck driver’s:
  • Name and CDL number
  • Insurance information
  • Trucking company details

3. Do NOT Give a Recorded Statement

• The trucking company’s insurance adjuster will call you quickly.
• They are NOT on your side—they’re trained to minimize your claim.
• Politely decline and tell them to contact your attorney.

4. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

• Go to the ER or urgent care—even if you feel fine.
• Some injuries (TBI, internal bleeding, spinal damage) don’t show symptoms right away.
• Medical records are critical evidence for your case.

5. Call Attorney911 Within 24-48 Hours

• Time is critical—evidence disappears fast.
• We’ll send a spoliation letter to preserve all evidence.
• We’ll investigate the trucking company for negligence.
• We’ll handle all communications with insurance companies.

Call now: 1-888-ATTY-911

Frequently Asked Questions About Plum Grove Trucking Accidents

1. How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Plum Grove?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait—evidence disappears quickly, and trucking companies start building their defense immediately.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 to protect your rights.

2. Can I sue if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Yes. Even if the driver is an owner-operator, the trucking company can still be liable for:

• Negligent hiring (failing to vet the driver)
• Negligent supervision (not monitoring safety)
• Negligent maintenance (if they control the truck’s upkeep)

3. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows modified comparative negligence—meaning:

• If you’re less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages.
• Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.

Example: If you’re 20% at fault, you can still recover 80% of your damages.

4. How much insurance does a trucking company have?

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:

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

Most trucking companies carry $1–5 million in coverage—meaning higher potential settlements than car accidents.

5. Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle out of court, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This gives us leverage in negotiations and forces the trucking company to offer a fair settlement.

6. How long does a trucking accident case take?

• Simple cases (clear liability, moderate injuries): 6–12 months
• Complex cases (severe injuries, disputed liability): 1–3 years
• Cases that go to trial: 2–4 years

We work to resolve your case as quickly as possible while maximizing your compensation.

7. What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Even if the trucking company goes out of business, we can still pursue:

• Their insurance policy (which remains active)
• Other liable parties (driver, cargo owner, maintenance company)
• Your own UM/UIM coverage (if the truck had no insurance)

8. Can I get compensation for PTSD after a trucking accident?

Yes. If you suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a trucking accident, you can recover compensation for:

• Mental anguish
• Therapy and counseling costs
• Lost quality of life

9. What if the truck driver was fatigued but didn’t violate hours-of-service rules?

Even if the driver technically complied with HOS rules, we can still prove fatigue through:

• Dispatch records (showing unrealistic schedules)
• GPS data (revealing erratic driving patterns)
• Expert testimony (on sleep deprivation risks)

10. How much does it cost to hire an 18-wheeler accident attorney?

At Attorney911, you pay nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning:

• No fee unless we win your case
• We advance all case expenses (experts, investigations, court costs)
• You only pay if we recover compensation for you

Plum Grove Trucking Accident Resources

Local Hospitals & Trauma Centers

• CHI St. Luke’s Health – Cleveland (15 miles from Plum Grove)
  • 300 E. Crockett St, Cleveland, TX 77327
  • (281) 592-5400
• Houston Methodist St. John Hospital (30 miles from Plum Grove)
  • 18300 St John Dr, Nassau Bay, TX 77058
  • (281) 333-5503
• Memorial Hermann Northeast Hospital (25 miles from Plum Grove)
  • 18951 Memorial N, Humble, TX 77338
  • (281) 540-7700

Liberty County Courthouse

• Liberty County Courthouse
  • 1923 Sam Houston St, Liberty, TX 77575
  • (936) 336-4673

Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)

• TxDOT Beaumont District Office
  • 8350 Eastex Freeway, Beaumont, TX 77708
  • (409) 898-5700

FMCSA Safety Resources

• FMCSA Safety Violation Hotline: 1-888-DOT-SAFT (1-888-368-7238)
• FMCSA Carrier Safety Records: safer.fmcsa.dot.gov

Plum Grove Trucking Accident Lawyers – Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Plum Grove, Liberty County, or anywhere in Texas, call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

We answer 24/7, and we’ll send a spoliation letter immediately to protect your evidence. You pay nothing unless we win your case.

Don’t wait—evidence disappears fast. Call now.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 Attorney911.com

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