18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Reno, Texas | Attorney911
When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Your Life in an Instant
You were driving to work on Lamar County’s highways. Maybe you were heading to Paris or Bonham, or just running errands in Reno. Then, in a split second, an 18-wheeler jackknifes across the road, rolls over, or slams into your vehicle. The impact is catastrophic. The aftermath is overwhelming.
At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has spent over 25 years fighting for families devastated by trucking accidents across Texas. We know Reno’s trucking corridors—from the distribution centers near US-82 to the weigh stations on I-30—and we know how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.
This isn’t just another personal injury case. This is a legal emergency, and you need a team that moves as fast as the trucking companies do to protect their interests.
Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We answer 24/7.
Why Reno Trucking Accidents Are Different
Reno sits at the crossroads of Lamar County’s trucking routes, serving as a critical hub for freight moving through Northeast Texas. The highways and rural roads around Reno see heavy commercial traffic, including:
- US-82, a major east-west corridor connecting Paris to Sherman and beyond
- FM 195, a rural route frequented by agricultural and oilfield trucks
- I-30, just south of Reno, carrying transcontinental freight
- Local distribution centers and warehouses that generate significant truck traffic
These roads present unique challenges:
- Narrow rural highways with limited shoulders and sudden curves
- Highway intersections where trucks make wide turns, creating hazards for smaller vehicles
- Weight stations and inspection points where fatigued drivers may rush to meet deadlines
- Agricultural and oilfield trucking with specialized cargo securement needs
- Seasonal traffic patterns that increase congestion during harvests or oilfield activity
Trucking accidents in Reno often involve:
- Jackknife accidents on wet or icy roads
- Rollover crashes when trucks take curves too fast
- Underride collisions where smaller vehicles slide beneath trailers
- Cargo spills from improperly secured loads
- Fatigue-related crashes from drivers pushing beyond federal hours-of-service limits
The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect them. You need a Reno trucking accident lawyer who knows how to fight back.
The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Crashes
An 18-wheeler isn’t just a big car—it’s a massive, complex machine with the potential to cause catastrophic damage. When these trucks crash, the results are often life-altering:
The Physics of Destruction
- A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—that’s 20-25 times heavier than your sedan
- At 65 mph, an 80,000-pound truck carries 80 times the kinetic energy of a passenger car
- Stopping distance: 525 feet (nearly two football fields) at 65 mph—40% longer than a car
- Underride collisions can shear off the roof of a car, decapitating occupants
Catastrophic Injuries We See in Reno Trucking Cases
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Even “mild” concussions can cause lifelong cognitive impairment
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Paralysis from the waist down (paraplegia) or all four limbs (quadriplegia)
- Amputations: Limbs crushed or severed in the crash, requiring surgical removal
- Severe Burns: From fuel tank ruptures, electrical fires, or hazmat cargo spills
- Internal Organ Damage: Liver lacerations, spleen ruptures, kidney damage
- Multiple Fractures: Broken bones requiring surgeries, hardware, and months of rehabilitation
- Wrongful Death: When the unthinkable happens, families are left to pick up the pieces
The Emotional Toll
Beyond the physical injuries, trucking accidents cause profound emotional trauma:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety about driving
- Depression and Anxiety: From the sudden loss of independence and financial security
- Grief and Loss: For families who lose loved ones in fatal crashes
- Financial Ruin: Medical bills piling up while you’re unable to work
You don’t have to face this alone. We’re here to fight for you.
Who’s Really Responsible for Your Reno Trucking Accident?
In a car accident, there’s usually just one at-fault driver. In a trucking accident, multiple parties may share responsibility—and we pursue them all to maximize your recovery.
The Truck Driver
The driver may be liable for:
- Speeding or reckless driving on Reno’s highways
- Distracted driving (cell phone use, texting, dispatch communications)
- Fatigued driving beyond federal hours-of-service limits
- Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol, prescription medications)
- Failure to conduct pre-trip inspections
- Violating traffic laws (running red lights, improper lane changes)
The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)
Trucking companies are often the deepest pockets in these cases. They can be liable for:
- Negligent Hiring: Failing to check the driver’s background or safety record
- Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training or no training at all
- Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance or HOS compliance
- Negligent Maintenance: Deferring repairs or using substandard parts
- Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate HOS regulations to meet deadlines
- Negligent Retention: Keeping drivers with poor safety records on the road
Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies try to minimize claims. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for you.
The Cargo Owner or Shipper
The company that owns the cargo may be liable for:
- Improper loading instructions that destabilize the truck
- Failure to disclose hazardous materials
- Requiring overweight loads that exceed vehicle capacity
- Pressuring the carrier to expedite delivery beyond safe limits
The Cargo Loading Company
Third-party loading companies can be liable for:
- Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
- Unbalanced load distribution causing instability
- Exceeding weight ratings for the vehicle
- Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
- Not training loaders on securement requirements
The Truck or Trailer Manufacturer
Manufacturers 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)
The Parts Manufacturer
Companies that make 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
The Maintenance Company
Third-party maintenance providers can be liable for:
- Negligent repairs that fail to fix problems
- Failure to identify critical safety issues
- Improper brake adjustments
- Using substandard or wrong parts
- Returning vehicles to service with known defects
The Freight Broker
Freight brokers who arrange transportation 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
The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)
In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may be liable for:
- Negligent entrustment of the vehicle
- Failure to maintain owned equipment
- Knowledge of the driver’s unfitness
Government Entities
In rare cases, government agencies 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
Our investigation leaves no stone unturned. We identify every liable party to ensure you recover the maximum compensation possible.
The Evidence That Wins Reno Trucking Cases
Trucking companies and their insurers will do everything possible to minimize or deny your claim. To win, you need irrefutable evidence—and you need to act fast.
Electronic Evidence: The Truck’s “Black Box”
Commercial trucks have sophisticated electronic systems that record critical data:
| System | What It Records | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| ECM (Engine Control Module) | Speed, RPM, throttle position, cruise control, fault codes | Proves speeding, sudden acceleration, or mechanical issues |
| EDR (Event Data Recorder) | Pre-crash data triggered by sudden deceleration or airbag deployment | Shows braking patterns and driver reactions |
| ELD (Electronic Logging Device) | Driver hours, duty status, GPS location, driving time | Proves HOS violations and fatigue |
| Telematics | Real-time GPS tracking, speed, route, driver behavior | Shows route history and speed patterns |
| Dashcam | Video of road ahead, some record cab interior | Captures driver behavior and accident dynamics |
This data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve it.
Driver and Company Records
We subpoena a mountain of documentation to build your case:
- Driver Qualification File: Hiring practices, background checks, training records
- Hours of Service Records: ELD logs, paper logs, dispatch records
- Maintenance Records: Inspection reports, repair orders, parts invoices
- Inspection History: Out-of-service orders, roadside inspections
- Dispatch Records: Trip schedules, delivery deadlines, communication logs
- Drug and Alcohol Test Results: Pre-employment and random testing
- Cell Phone Records: Text messages, calls, app usage at time of crash
- Training Records: Safety training, cargo securement training
- Safety Policies: Company procedures for hiring, training, maintenance
- Previous Accident History: Pattern of violations or crashes
Physical Evidence
We preserve and analyze:
- The truck and trailer themselves (before repair or disposal)
- Failed or damaged components (brakes, tires, steering parts)
- Cargo and securement devices (tiedowns, blocking, tarps)
- Skid marks and debris patterns at the scene
- Vehicle damage patterns to reconstruct the crash
Witness Statements
We interview:
- Eyewitnesses to the crash
- First responders (police, EMTs, firefighters)
- Other drivers on the road at the time
- Truck stop employees who may have seen the driver’s condition
- Weigh station personnel who may have inspected the truck
Expert Analysis
We work with:
- Accident reconstruction experts to determine how the crash happened
- Mechanical engineers to analyze vehicle defects
- Medical experts to document your injuries and future care needs
- Vocational experts to calculate lost earning capacity
- Economic experts to determine the present value of your damages
- Life care planners to develop comprehensive care plans for catastrophic injuries
- FMCSA regulation experts to identify all violations
Common Causes of Reno Trucking Accidents
1. Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)
Federal regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:
- 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off
- 14-hour on-duty window (cannot drive beyond the 14th hour)
- 30-minute break required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
- 60/70-hour weekly limits (60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days)
Why violations happen:
- Pressure from trucking companies to meet tight deadlines
- Financial incentives for faster deliveries
- Lack of enforcement or oversight
- Falsification of logbooks (even with ELDs)
How we prove fatigue:
- ELD data showing driving beyond legal limits
- Dispatch records showing unrealistic schedules
- Truck stop receipts showing insufficient rest
- Witness statements about driver behavior
- Cell phone records showing late-night driving
Fatigue slows reaction time as much as alcohol. A driver awake for 24 hours has the impairment equivalent of a 0.10% BAC.
2. Distracted Driving
Truck drivers face numerous distractions:
- Cell phone use (texting, calls, GPS)
- Dispatch communications (Qualcomm messages, CB radio)
- In-cab electronics (tablets, navigation systems)
- Eating and drinking while driving
- External distractions (billboards, accidents, scenery)
FMCSA prohibits:
- Hand-held mobile phone use while driving (49 CFR § 392.82)
- Texting while driving (49 CFR § 392.80)
- Reaching for a phone in a manner requiring leaving the seated position
How we prove distraction:
- Cell phone records showing usage at time of crash
- Dashcam footage showing driver behavior
- Witness statements about erratic driving
- ECM data showing inconsistent speed or braking
3. Improper Cargo Securement
Cargo securement failures cause rollovers, jackknives, and spills. FMCSA regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) require:
- Adequate tiedowns to prevent shifting
- Proper load distribution to maintain stability
- Blocking and bracing for certain cargo types
- Regular re-inspection during transit
Common violations:
- Insufficient number of tiedowns
- Tiedowns with inadequate working load limits
- Improperly positioned tiedowns
- Failure to use edge protectors
- Not securing tarps or covers
How we prove securement failures:
- Cargo manifest and loading records
- Securement equipment used (or not used)
- Loading company procedures
- Driver training on cargo securement
- Post-crash analysis of cargo shift
4. Brake Failures
Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes. FMCSA regulations require:
- Proper brake adjustment (pushrod travel limits)
- Regular inspections (pre-trip, post-trip, annual)
- Prompt repair of brake defects
- Adequate braking capacity for the vehicle’s weight
Common brake issues:
- Worn brake pads or shoes
- Improperly adjusted brakes
- Air brake system leaks
- Contaminated brake fluid
- Brake fade on long descents
How we prove brake failures:
- Maintenance records showing deferred repairs
- Out-of-service inspection history
- ECM data showing brake application timing
- Post-crash brake system analysis
- Driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs)
5. Tire Blowouts
Tire failures cause 11,000 crashes annually, resulting in 738 deaths. FMCSA regulations require:
- Minimum tread depth (4/32″ on steer tires, 2/32″ on others)
- Proper inflation to prevent overheating
- Matching tires on dual wheels
- Regular inspections for damage or wear
Common tire issues:
- Underinflation causing overheating
- Overloading beyond tire capacity
- Worn or aging tires not replaced
- Road debris punctures
- Manufacturing defects
How we prove tire failures:
- Tire maintenance and replacement records
- Tire age and wear documentation
- Vehicle weight records (weigh station)
- Failed tire for defect analysis
6. Underride Collisions
Underride crashes occur when a smaller vehicle slides beneath a truck’s trailer. These are among the most deadly trucking accidents.
Types of underride:
- Rear underride: Vehicle strikes back of trailer
- Side underride: Vehicle impacts side of trailer during lane changes or turns
Federal requirements:
- Rear impact guards (49 CFR § 393.86) on trailers manufactured after 1/26/1998
- Guards must prevent underride at 30 mph impact
- NO FEDERAL REQUIREMENT for side underride guards
How we prove underride crashes:
- Underride guard inspection records
- Rear lighting compliance documentation
- Crash dynamics showing underride depth
- Guard installation and certification records
7. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)
Trucks need extra space to make turns, often swinging wide to the left before making a right turn. This creates a dangerous gap that smaller vehicles may enter—only to be crushed when the truck completes its turn.
How these accidents happen:
- Truck swings left to make right turn
- Smaller vehicle enters the gap created
- Truck completes turn, crushing the smaller vehicle
- Driver fails to check mirrors during turn
- Inadequate turn signal use
How we prove wide turn accidents:
- Turn signal activation data from ECM
- Mirror condition and adjustment records
- Driver training on turning procedures
- Intersection geometry analysis
- Witness statements about turn execution
8. Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)
Trucks have four massive blind spots where drivers cannot see other vehicles:
- Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
- Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
- Left Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward
- Right Side No-Zone: Much larger than left side—most dangerous
How these accidents happen:
- Truck changes lanes without seeing vehicle in blind spot
- Driver fails to check mirrors before maneuvering
- Improperly adjusted mirrors
- Driver distraction during lane changes
How we prove blind spot accidents:
- Mirror condition and adjustment records
- Lane change data from ECM/telematics
- Turn signal activation records
- Driver training on blind spot awareness
- Dashcam footage
What to Do After a Reno Trucking Accident
At the Scene: Critical First Steps
If you’re able to move after the crash, take these steps immediately:
- Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel okay, get checked out. Adrenaline masks pain, and some injuries (like TBI or internal bleeding) may not show symptoms immediately
- Document the Scene – If possible, take photos and videos of:
- All vehicle damage (inside and out)
- The accident scene (road conditions, skid marks, debris)
- Street signs, traffic signals, and weather conditions
- Your injuries
- Get the Truck Driver’s Information – Record:
- Driver’s name and contact information
- Commercial driver’s license (CDL) number
- Trucking company name and DOT number
- Truck and trailer license plate numbers
- Collect Witness Information – Get names and contact information from anyone who saw the crash
- Do NOT Give a Recorded Statement – The trucking company’s insurance adjuster will call quickly. Do not speak to them without an attorney
- Call Attorney911 Immediately – Critical evidence disappears fast. We send spoliation letters within hours to preserve it
In the Hospital: Protecting Your Case
- Follow all medical advice – Attend all follow-up appointments and complete your treatment plan
- Document everything – Keep records of:
- Medical visits and procedures
- Medications prescribed
- Pain levels and symptoms
- How injuries affect your daily life
- Time missed from work
- Do not post on social media – Insurance companies will use your posts against you
- Stay off work if your doctor advises it – Returning to work too soon can hurt your case
- Keep a journal – Write down how your injuries impact your life, your pain levels, and your emotional state
After Discharge: Building Your Case
- Continue medical treatment – Follow your doctor’s orders and attend all therapy sessions
- Save all medical bills and receipts – These document your economic damages
- Track lost wages – Keep records of time missed from work and any reduced earning capacity
- Document property damage – Get repair estimates for your vehicle
- Stay in touch with your attorney – Provide updates on your condition and respond to requests promptly
- Do not sign anything – The insurance company may offer a quick settlement. Never sign without consulting your attorney
How Much Is Your Reno Trucking Accident Case Worth?
There’s no “average” settlement for trucking accidents because every case is unique. However, trucking cases typically have higher values than car accidents because:
- Higher Insurance Limits – Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million in liability coverage (federal minimum is $750,000 for non-hazardous freight)
- More Severe Injuries – The catastrophic nature of trucking accidents leads to higher medical expenses and pain and suffering
- Multiple Liable Parties – More defendants mean more insurance coverage available
- Punitive Damages Potential – When trucking companies act with gross negligence (falsifying logs, ignoring maintenance), juries award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer
Damages You Can Recover
| Category | What’s Included | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Economic Damages | Medical expenses (past and future) | Hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, medical equipment, home modifications |
| Lost wages | Income lost due to time off work | |
| Lost earning capacity | Reduction in future earning ability due to permanent disability | |
| Property damage | Vehicle repair or replacement | |
| Out-of-pocket expenses | Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, assistive devices | |
| Life care costs | Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries (nursing, therapy, medical supplies) | |
| Non-Economic Damages | Pain and suffering | Physical pain from injuries |
| Mental anguish | Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression | |
| Loss of enjoyment | Inability to participate in hobbies and activities | |
| Disfigurement | Scarring, visible injuries | |
| Loss of consortium | Impact on marriage and family relationships | |
| Physical impairment | Reduced physical capabilities | |
| Punitive Damages | Punishment for gross negligence | When the trucking company acted with reckless disregard for safety (e.g., falsifying logs, ignoring maintenance) |
Factors That Affect Case Value
| Factor | Higher Value | Lower Value |
|---|---|---|
| Injury Severity | Catastrophic (TBI, paralysis, amputation) | Minor (soft tissue, whiplash) |
| Medical Expenses | High (hospitalization, surgery, long-term care) | Low (minor treatment) |
| Lost Income | High (permanent disability, long recovery) | Low (short recovery, no disability) |
| Pain and Suffering | Severe (permanent impairment, chronic pain) | Mild (temporary discomfort) |
| Liability | Clear (truck driver 100% at fault) | Shared (you share some fault) |
| Insurance Coverage | High ($1M+ policy) | Low (minimum coverage) |
| Defendant’s Conduct | Gross negligence (falsifying logs) | Simple negligence (momentary distraction) |
| Jurisdiction | Plaintiff-friendly venues | Defendant-friendly venues |
Recent Trucking Verdicts and Settlements in Texas
While every case is unique, recent verdicts show what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:
| Case | Year | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger | 2021 | $730 Million | Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman; $480M compensatory + $250M punitive |
| Werner Settlement | 2022 | $150 Million | Two children killed on I-30; largest 18-wheeler settlement in US history |
| Underride Crash | 2023 | $462 Million | Two men decapitated in underride collision (Missouri case, but relevant to Texas) |
| Rollover Crash | 2024 | $160 Million | Alabama case where rollover left driver quadriplegic |
| Multiple Texas Verdicts | 2024-2025 | $10M-$50M | Numerous verdicts in the $10M-$50M range for catastrophic injuries |
These verdicts demonstrate that juries will hold trucking companies accountable for negligence—especially when lives are destroyed.
The Legal Process: What to Expect in Your Reno Trucking Case
Step 1: Free Consultation (Within 24 Hours)
- We’ll evaluate your case and explain your legal options
- No obligation—just honest advice about your situation
- We’ll answer all your questions about the process
Step 2: Immediate Evidence Preservation (First 48 Hours)
- Send spoliation letters to all liable parties
- Demand preservation of ECM, ELD, maintenance, and driver records
- Dispatch investigators to the scene if needed
- Preserve physical evidence before it’s repaired or destroyed
Step 3: Investigation and Case Building (Weeks 1-4)
- Obtain police reports and accident reconstruction
- Subpoena driver qualification files and hours of service records
- Review maintenance and inspection records
- Analyze electronic data (ECM, ELD, telematics)
- Interview witnesses
- Consult with medical and accident reconstruction experts
Step 4: Medical Treatment and Documentation (Ongoing)
- We’ll help you get the medical care you need
- Document all injuries and treatment
- Calculate future medical expenses
- Develop a life care plan for catastrophic injuries
Step 5: Demand Letter (After Treatment Completion)
- Send comprehensive demand to insurance companies
- Include all economic and non-economic damages
- Demand full policy limits when appropriate
Step 6: Negotiation (Weeks 4-12)
- Insurance companies will respond with lowball offers
- We’ll negotiate aggressively for fair compensation
- If offers are inadequate, we’ll prepare for litigation
Step 7: Filing Lawsuit (If Necessary)
- File complaint in appropriate court
- Texas statute of limitations: 2 years from date of accident
- Begin formal discovery process
Step 8: Discovery (Months 3-18)
- Interrogatories (written questions)
- Requests for production (documents and evidence)
- Depositions (sworn testimony from drivers, safety managers, experts)
- Expert reports
Step 9: Mediation (Months 12-24)
- Neutral mediator helps facilitate settlement
- We’ll present your case and negotiate from a position of strength
- Many cases settle at mediation
Step 10: Trial (Months 18-36)
- If no fair settlement is offered, we’ll take your case to trial
- Present evidence to judge and jury
- Fight for maximum compensation
- Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to court
Step 11: Appeal (If Necessary)
- If the verdict is unfavorable, we’ll evaluate appeal options
- Handle all post-trial motions and appeals
Step 12: Collection
- Ensure defendants pay the judgment or settlement
- Handle any disputes about payment
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Reno Trucking Accident Case?
1. We’re Reno Trucking Accident Specialists
We don’t just handle trucking cases—we specialize in them. Our firm has recovered millions of dollars for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. We know the trucking industry’s tactics, and we know how to beat them.
2. Our Team Includes a Former Insurance Defense Attorney
Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.
3. We Have Federal Court Experience
Trucking cases often involve federal regulations and can be filed in federal court. Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, giving us the ability to handle complex trucking litigation.
4. We’ve Fought the Biggest Trucking Companies
We’ve taken on:
- Walmart trucking operations
- Amazon delivery vehicles
- Coca-Cola distribution trucks
- FedEx and UPS trucks
- Major commercial carriers across Texas
5. We Know Reno’s Trucking Corridors
We understand the unique challenges of Reno’s roads:
- The distribution centers along US-82
- The weigh stations on I-30
- The rural highways where agricultural and oilfield trucks operate
- The intersections where wide turns create hazards
6. We Offer Bilingual Services
Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our staff includes bilingual team members. We serve Reno’s Hispanic community directly, without interpreters.
Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.
7. We Work on Contingency—No Fee Unless We Win
You pay nothing upfront. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You only pay if we recover compensation for you. Our fee comes from the settlement, not your pocket.
8. We Have a Proven Track Record of Results
- $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
- $10M Lawsuit Filed – Hazing litigation (active case)
“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
9. We’re Available 24/7
Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. Neither do we. Call us anytime at 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer immediately.
10. We Treat You Like Family
We understand the trauma you’re going through. Our team will:
- Keep you informed every step of the way
- Answer your questions promptly
- Fight aggressively for your rights
- Treat you with compassion and respect
Frequently Asked Questions About Reno Trucking Accidents
1. What should I do immediately after a trucking accident in Reno?
Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene, get the truck driver’s information, collect witness contact details, and call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. Critical evidence disappears quickly.
2. Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?
No. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Refer all communications to your attorney.
3. How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a Reno trucking accident?
In Texas, the statute of limitations is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly, and the sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.
4. Who can I sue after a Reno trucking accident?
Multiple parties may be liable:
- 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 (in rare cases)
5. What is a truck’s “black box” and why is it important?
Commercial trucks have electronic systems (ECM, ELD) that record operational data, including:
- Speed before and during the crash
- Brake application timing
- Engine RPM and throttle position
- GPS location
- Hours of service
This data is critical evidence that can prove negligence. It can be overwritten in as little as 30 days, so we send spoliation letters immediately to preserve it.
6. What are hours of service regulations and how do violations cause accidents?
Federal regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:
- Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off
- Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
- 30-minute break required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
- 60/70-hour weekly limits
Violations cause fatigued driving, which slows reaction time as much as alcohol. We use ELD data to prove HOS violations.
7. What if the truck driver says I caused the accident?
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you can still recover compensation as long as you were less than 50% responsible. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
8. How much is my Reno trucking accident case worth?
Case value depends on many factors:
- Severity of your injuries
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Degree of the defendant’s negligence
- Insurance coverage available
Trucking cases typically have higher values than car accidents because:
- Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits ($750K-$5M)
- Injuries are often more severe
- There are multiple liable parties
9. Will my case go to trial?
Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to court. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to trial—and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.
10. How long will my case 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.
11. 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. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.
12. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Under Texas law, you can still recover compensation as long as you were less than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, you would recover 80% of your damages.
13. What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
Bankruptcy doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t recover. We investigate:
- All available insurance policies
- Corporate assets
- Personal assets of owners
- Other liable parties
14. Can I still recover if the truck driver was an independent contractor?
Yes. Even if the driver is an independent contractor, the trucking company may still be liable for:
- Negligent hiring
- Negligent training
- Negligent supervision
- Negligent maintenance
We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.
15. What if I don’t have health insurance?
We can help you get medical treatment through:
- Lien-based treatment: Doctors treat you now and get paid from your settlement
- Attorney-approved doctors: We work with medical providers who understand personal injury cases
16. How do I know if I have a good case?
A good trucking accident case typically has:
- Clear liability: The truck driver or company was clearly at fault
- Diagnosable injuries: You have documented injuries from the accident
- Adequate insurance coverage: There’s enough insurance to cover your damages
- Timely treatment: You sought medical attention promptly
The best way to know is to call us for a free consultation at 1-888-ATTY-911.
17. What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?
Never accept a quick settlement without consulting an attorney. These offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries.
18. Can I sue for PTSD after a trucking accident?
Yes. PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) is a compensable injury. Symptoms may include:
- Flashbacks and nightmares
- Severe anxiety
- Depression
- Difficulty driving or being near trucks
- Insomnia
Documentation from a psychologist or therapist is essential for these claims.
19. What if my loved one was killed in a Reno trucking accident?
Texas allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover:
- Lost future income and benefits
- Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
- Mental anguish and emotional suffering
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Punitive damages (if gross negligence)
20. How do I get started with my Reno trucking accident case?
Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll:
- Evaluate your case
- Explain your legal options
- Send spoliation letters immediately to preserve evidence
- Begin building your case right away
Every hour you wait, evidence is disappearing. Call us now.
Reno Trucking Accident Resources
Emergency and Medical Resources
- Reno Police Department: (903) 785-1611 (non-emergency)
- Lamar County Sheriff’s Office: (903) 737-2400
- Paris Regional Medical Center: (903) 737-3000
- Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Paris: (903) 785-4521
- Lamar County EMS: 911 for emergencies
Trucking and Transportation Resources
- Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): www.txdot.gov
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): www.fmcsa.dot.gov
- FMCSA Safety Measurement System (SMS): ai.fmcsa.dot.gov
- FMCSA Company Snapshot: safer.fmcsa.dot.gov
Legal Resources
- State Bar of Texas: www.texasbar.com
- Texas Law Help: www.texaslawhelp.org
- Texas Department of Insurance: www.tdi.texas.gov
Your Fight Starts Now
The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests. What are you doing to protect yours?
At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for families devastated by trucking accidents. We know Reno’s roads, we know the trucking industry’s tactics, and we know how to win.
Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We answer 24/7.
Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.
You don’t have to face this alone. We’re here to fight for you.