18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Smithville, TX | Attorney911
Every year, thousands of 18-wheeler accidents occur on Texas highways, leaving families devastated and lives forever changed. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in Smithville, TX, you need an attorney who understands the complex web of federal trucking regulations and knows how to hold negligent trucking companies fully accountable.
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, brings federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. We know Smithville’s trucking corridors—from Highway 71 to the distribution centers and truck stops where drivers may be cutting corners on safety—and we know how to build a case that wins.
Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different (And More Dangerous)
An 18-wheeler isn’t just a bigger car—it’s a 20-25 times heavier vehicle with completely different physics. When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a 4,000-pound sedan, the results are catastrophic:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Amputations
- Severe burns
- Wrongful death
Unlike car accidents, trucking crashes involve multiple liable parties, federal regulations, and insurance policies with seven-figure limits. If you don’t act fast, critical evidence disappears—black box data can be overwritten in 30 days, dashcam footage gets deleted, and trucking companies destroy records to protect themselves.
That’s why you need to call Attorney911 NOW.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Smithville, TX
Smithville sits at the crossroads of major Texas trucking routes, including Highway 71, FM 153, and FM 2104, where commercial traffic mixes with local drivers. The most common causes of trucking accidents in our area include:
1. Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)
Federal law limits truck drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, with mandatory 30-minute breaks after 8 hours of driving. But many carriers pressure drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines, leading to drowsy driving—a factor in 31% of fatal truck crashes.
How we prove it:
- ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data – Shows exact driving hours
- Dispatch records – Reveals pressure to meet deadlines
- Driver Qualification File – May show history of HOS violations
2. Distracted Driving (Texting, Phone Use, In-Cab Electronics)
Truck drivers are prohibited from using hand-held phones while driving, yet many still text, check GPS, or use dispatch systems behind the wheel.
How we prove it:
- Cell phone records – Show calls/texts at time of crash
- ECM (Engine Control Module) data – Reveals sudden braking or swerving
- Dashcam footage – Captures driver behavior
3. Improper Cargo Securement (Shifting Loads, Spills, Rollovers)
When cargo isn’t properly secured, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable and roll over—especially on curves like those found on Highway 71 near Smithville.
How we prove it:
- Cargo loading records – Shows who secured the load
- Bill of lading – Details what was being transported
- Post-crash inspection – Reveals tiedown failures
4. Brake Failures & Poor Maintenance
Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes. Trucking companies often defer maintenance to save money, leading to worn brake pads, air leaks, and overheated brakes on long descents.
How we prove it:
- Maintenance records – Shows deferred repairs
- Out-of-service violations – Previous brake citations
- Post-crash brake inspection – Reveals mechanical failures
5. Tire Blowouts (Underinflation, Overloading, Manufacturing Defects)
Tire blowouts cause 11,000+ crashes per year, often sending debris into other lanes. Steer tire (front) blowouts are especially dangerous because they can cause immediate loss of control.
How we prove it:
- Tire maintenance records – Shows inflation checks
- Weight tickets – Proves overloading
- Failed tire analysis – Reveals defects
6. Underride Collisions (Rear & Side Impacts)
One of the deadliest trucking accidents occurs when a car slides underneath a trailer, shearing off the roof and often decapitating occupants. Rear underride guards are required, but side guards are not—despite being just as deadly.
How we prove it:
- Guard inspection records – Shows compliance (or lack thereof)
- Crash reconstruction – Proves underride occurred
- Manufacturer records – Reveals guard defects
7. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play” Crashes)
Trucks need extra space to turn, often swinging wide before making a right turn. If a driver fails to check mirrors, they can crush vehicles in the “no-zone” alongside the trailer.
How we prove it:
- Turn signal data – Shows if driver signaled
- Mirror adjustment records – Proves visibility issues
- Witness statements – Corroborates driver’s path
8. Blind Spot Collisions (“No-Zone” Accidents)
Trucks have four massive blind spots—front, rear, and both sides—where the driver cannot see smaller vehicles. Many crashes happen when trucks change lanes into unseen cars.
How we prove it:
- Mirror condition reports – Shows if mirrors were properly adjusted
- Lane change data – From ECM/telematics
- Dashcam footage – Captures driver’s view
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Smithville Trucking Accident?
Unlike car accidents, multiple parties can share responsibility in a trucking crash. At Attorney911, we investigate every possible defendant to maximize your compensation:
| Potentially Liable Party | How They May Be Responsible |
|---|---|
| Truck Driver | Speeding, fatigue, distraction, impairment, failure to inspect vehicle |
| Trucking Company (Motor Carrier) | Negligent hiring, poor training, pressuring drivers to violate HOS, deferred maintenance |
| Cargo Owner/Shipper | Overloading, improper packaging, rushing delivery |
| Loading Company | Improper cargo securement, unbalanced loads |
| Truck Manufacturer | Defective brakes, tires, steering, or safety systems |
| Parts Manufacturer | Faulty brake components, tire defects, lighting failures |
| Maintenance Company | Negligent repairs, failure to identify safety issues |
| Freight Broker | Negligent selection of unsafe carrier |
| Truck Owner (if different from carrier) | Negligent entrustment of vehicle to unfit driver |
| Government Entity | Dangerous road design, poor signage, lack of safety barriers |
Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies try to shift blame. We counter their tactics and fight for every dollar you deserve.
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Smithville, TX
✅ IMMEDIATE STEPS (First 48 Hours)
- Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance.
- Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, adrenaline masks pain. Get checked for TBI, spinal injuries, and internal bleeding.
- Document the scene – Take photos/videos of:
- Vehicle damage (all sides)
- Skid marks, road conditions, debris
- Injuries (yours and others)
- Truck’s DOT number, license plate, company name
- Witness contact information
- Get the truck driver’s information:
- Name, CDL number, employer
- Insurance information
- Truck and trailer license plates
- Do NOT give a recorded statement – Insurance adjusters will use your words against you.
- Call Attorney911 – Within 24-48 hours. We send spoliation letters to preserve evidence before it’s destroyed.
❌ WHAT NOT TO DO
- Don’t admit fault – Even saying “I’m sorry” can be used against you.
- Don’t post on social media – Insurance companies will use your posts to argue you’re not injured.
- Don’t accept a quick settlement – First offers are always lowball. You may have undiagnosed injuries that appear later.
- Don’t delay medical treatment – Gaps in treatment hurt your case.
How Attorney911 Builds a Winning Trucking Case
1. Immediate Evidence Preservation (First 48 Hours)
- Send spoliation letters to trucking company, insurer, and all liable parties
- Demand ECM/black box data (can be overwritten in 30 days)
- Secure ELD logs (proves HOS violations)
- Obtain dashcam footage (often deleted within 7-14 days)
- Photograph the truck before repairs
2. Comprehensive Investigation
We gather all available evidence to build a rock-solid case:
| Evidence Type | What It Proves |
|---|---|
| ECM/Black Box Data | Speed, braking, throttle position, cruise control |
| ELD Logs | Hours of service violations, fatigue |
| Driver Qualification File | Negligent hiring, lack of training |
| Maintenance Records | Deferred repairs, known defects |
| Drug/Alcohol Tests | Impairment at time of crash |
| Cell Phone Records | Distracted driving |
| Dispatch Records | Pressure to violate HOS |
| Cargo Manifest | Overloading, improper securement |
| Witness Statements | Corroborates your version of events |
| Accident Reconstruction | Determines exact cause of crash |
3. Identifying All Liable Parties
We name every responsible party to maximize your recovery:
- Trucking company (vicarious liability, negligent hiring/training)
- Truck driver (direct negligence)
- Cargo owner/shipper (overloading, rushing delivery)
- Loading company (improper securement)
- Manufacturer (defective brakes, tires, safety systems)
- Maintenance provider (negligent repairs)
- Freight broker (negligent carrier selection)
4. Calculating Full Damages
We work with medical experts, economists, and life care planners to determine:
- Past and future medical expenses (surgeries, rehab, therapy)
- Lost wages and earning capacity (if injuries prevent you from working)
- Pain and suffering (physical pain, emotional trauma)
- Loss of consortium (impact on marriage/family relationships)
- Punitive damages (if gross negligence is proven)
Smithville, TX Trucking Accident Case Results
At Attorney911, we’ve recovered millions for Texas families devastated by 18-wheeler accidents. While every case is unique, our past results demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:
“$5+ Million – Logging Brain Injury Settlement”
A worker suffered a traumatic brain injury after being struck by a falling log. We proved the logging company failed to implement proper safety protocols, leading to a multi-million dollar settlement.
“$3.8+ Million – Car Accident Amputation Settlement”
A client lost part of their leg after a staph infection during medical treatment following a car accident. We secured compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
“$2.5+ Million – Truck Crash Recovery”
A family received a seven-figure settlement after a trucking company’s negligence caused a catastrophic collision.
“Millions Recovered for Wrongful Death in Trucking Accidents”
When negligence takes a life, we fight for justice for grieving families, holding trucking companies accountable for their actions.
“$10M Lawsuit Filed – University of Houston Hazing Case”
While not a trucking case, this landmark lawsuit demonstrates our ability to take on major institutions and secure multi-million dollar results for victims.
These results are not typical, and past performance does not guarantee future outcomes. However, they show what’s possible when experienced attorneys fight for maximum compensation.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Smithville Trucking Case?
1. 25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies
Ralph Manginello has been holding trucking companies accountable since 1998. He’s secured millions in verdicts and settlements for victims of catastrophic trucking accidents.
2. Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Our Team
Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for insurance companies—he knows every tactic they use to minimize claims. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.
3. Federal Court Experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
Many trucking cases involve interstate commerce and can be filed in federal court. Ralph Manginello is admitted to the Southern District of Texas, giving us an advantage in complex cases.
4. Aggressive Evidence Preservation
We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to prevent trucking companies from destroying critical evidence. Black box data, ELD logs, and dashcam footage can disappear fast—we act faster.
5. Proven Track Record Against Major Trucking Companies
We’ve taken on Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and other major carriers—and won.
6. Bilingual Services (Hablamos Español)
Many trucking accident victims in Smithville speak Spanish as their primary language. Our team includes fluent Spanish speakers, including Lupe Peña and Zulema, ensuring clear communication throughout your case.
7. No Fee Unless We Win
We work on contingency—you pay nothing upfront. Our fee comes from the settlement, so you never receive a bill from us.
Smithville, TX Trucking Accident Statistics
Smithville is located in Bastrop County, where Highway 71 and FM 153 see heavy commercial traffic. While exact local numbers can vary, statewide Texas trucking statistics paint a sobering picture:
- 5,100+ fatalities in large truck crashes annually in the U.S. (NHTSA)
- 125,000+ injuries per year
- 76% of fatalities are occupants of the smaller vehicle
- Fatigue is a factor in 31% of fatal truck crashes
- Brake problems contribute to 29% of large truck crashes
- Texas has the highest number of trucking accidents in the U.S.
Smithville’s proximity to major highways means our community is at higher risk for trucking accidents. If you’ve been injured, you’re not alone—and you deserve justice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Smithville Trucking Accidents
1. What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Smithville?
Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene (photos, witness info), do not give a recorded statement, and call Attorney911 within 24-48 hours to preserve evidence.
2. Who can I sue after a trucking accident?
You may be able to sue:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The cargo owner/shipper
- The loading company
- The truck/parts manufacturer
- The maintenance provider
- The freight broker
3. How long do I have to file a lawsuit in Texas?
Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. However, evidence disappears fast—contact us immediately to protect your rights.
4. What is a “black box” and how does it help my case?
The ECM (Engine Control Module) records:
- Speed before and during the crash
- Brake application timing
- Throttle position
- GPS location
- Hours of service compliance
This data is critical evidence in proving negligence.
5. What if the truck driver says I caused the accident?
Texas follows modified comparative negligence—if you’re less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages (reduced by your percentage of fault). We gather ECM data, witness statements, and accident reconstruction to prove the truth.
6. How much is my trucking accident case worth?
Case value depends on:
- Severity of injuries
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Degree of negligence
- Available insurance coverage
Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million in insurance—far more than typical car accidents.
7. 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 offer better settlements when they know we’re ready to take them to trial.
8. How long will my case take?
- Simple cases: 6-12 months
- Complex cases: 1-3 years
- Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years
We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.
9. What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?
Never accept the first offer—it’s always a lowball. We’ve seen insurance companies offer $10,000 when the real value is $100,000+. Let us evaluate your case before you sign anything.
10. Do I need a lawyer for a trucking accident case?
Yes. Trucking companies have teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim. You need an experienced trucking accident attorney to level the playing field and fight for maximum compensation.
Smithville, TX Trucking Accident Resources
Local Hospitals & Trauma Centers
- Ascension Seton Smithville – 1201 Highway 71 W, Smithville, TX 78957
- St. David’s South Austin Medical Center (Level IV Trauma) – 901 W Ben White Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
- Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas (Level I Trauma) – 1500 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
Bastrop County Courts
- Bastrop County Courthouse – 803 Pine St, Bastrop, TX 78602
- 33rd Judicial District Court (Handles personal injury cases)
Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)
- Bastrop County TxDOT Office – 1000 Highway 71 E, Bastrop, TX 78602
- Crash Reports – TxDOT CRIS System
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
- Carrier Safety Records – FMCSA SaferWeb
- Inspection & Violation Data – FMCSA MCMIS
Call Attorney911 Now – We Fight for Smithville Families
If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident in Smithville, TX, time is critical. Evidence disappears fast, and trucking companies have rapid-response teams working to protect their interests—not yours.
Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free consultation. We answer 24/7, and we’ll send a spoliation letter immediately to preserve evidence in your case.
Hablamos Español. Our team includes fluent Spanish speakers to ensure clear communication throughout your case.
No fee unless we win. You pay nothing upfront—our fee comes from the settlement, so you never receive a bill from us.
“The trucking company has lawyers. So should you.”
— Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner, Attorney911
Don’t wait. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now.
