18-Wheeler Accidents in Spur, Texas: Your Guide to Justice and Compensation

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident on Spur’s highways, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. The physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burden can feel overwhelming. At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through because we’ve helped hundreds of Texas families just like yours recover from catastrophic trucking accidents.

Why Spur’s Trucking Corridors Are Dangerous

Spur sits at a critical juncture of West Texas trucking routes. While our community isn’t directly on major interstates, we’re served by several important highways that carry significant commercial traffic:

• US Highway 82 – This east-west corridor connects Lubbock to Wichita Falls and beyond, carrying agricultural products, oilfield equipment, and general freight through Dickens County.
• State Highway 70 – The north-south route that passes directly through Spur, connecting to US 82 and providing access to regional distribution centers.
• Farm-to-Market Roads – FM 142, FM 1082, and other local routes see regular truck traffic serving Spur’s agricultural community and regional businesses.

These roads weren’t designed for the volume and size of modern commercial trucks. The combination of rural road conditions, long straight stretches that encourage speeding, and the mix of local traffic with heavy commercial vehicles creates a dangerous environment.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents

When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. The physics simply don’t favor the smaller vehicle:

• A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh 20-25 times more than your car
• At 65 mph, a truck needs 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields
• The average car needs only 300 feet to stop from the same speed
• This 40% longer stopping distance means trucks can’t avoid obstacles as quickly as cars

In Spur and throughout Dickens County, we see the same types of devastating accidents repeatedly:

Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Spur

1. Rear-End Collisions
Spur’s long straight stretches of highway encourage speeding. When traffic slows suddenly for construction, animals crossing, or local traffic turning, truck drivers often don’t have time to react. These accidents frequently result in:

• Severe whiplash injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries from impact
• Spinal cord damage
• Fatalities when vehicles are pushed into oncoming traffic

2. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)
Trucks making right turns from Spur’s main streets often swing wide to the left first. This creates a dangerous gap that other vehicles may try to enter, only to be crushed when the truck completes its turn. These accidents are particularly common at:

• The intersection of US 82 and SH 70
• Downtown Spur’s business district
• Agricultural loading areas

3. Jackknife Accidents
When a truck’s trailer swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the cab, it creates a deadly obstacle that can block multiple lanes. In Spur, these often occur:

• On wet or icy roads during winter storms
• When drivers brake suddenly on the long descent approaching town
• When empty trailers are more prone to swinging

4. Rollover Accidents
Spur’s rural roads have many curves and elevation changes that can catch truck drivers by surprise. Rollovers happen when:

• Drivers take curves too fast
• Cargo shifts due to improper loading
• Drivers overcorrect after running off the road
• High winds affect top-heavy loads

5. Underride Collisions
These are among the deadliest accidents. When a car slides under a truck’s trailer, the top of the car is often sheared off. In Spur, these occur:

• At night when visibility is poor
• When trucks stop suddenly on highways
• During lane changes on rural roads

6. Tire Blowouts
West Texas heat and long highway stretches put tremendous stress on truck tires. Blowouts are common and can:

• Cause the driver to lose control
• Create deadly debris that strikes other vehicles
• Force trucks into oncoming traffic

7. Brake Failures
The long descents approaching Spur from higher elevations put tremendous stress on braking systems. Brake failures often result from:

• Poor maintenance
• Overheating on long descents
• Improper adjustment
• Manufacturer defects

The Most Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Spur

Our experience handling trucking cases throughout West Texas has revealed several recurring causes:

Driver Fatigue: The Silent Killer

Despite federal regulations, driver fatigue remains the leading cause of trucking accidents. The FMCSA Hours of Service (HOS) rules are designed to prevent fatigue, but violations are rampant:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Drivers may drive only 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour On-Duty Window: Drivers cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• 30-Minute Break: Required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days

In Spur, we frequently see violations when:

• Drivers push to make delivery deadlines
• Companies pressure drivers to exceed limits
• Drivers falsify their logbooks (though ELDs have reduced this)
• Drivers work second jobs during their “off-duty” time

How We Prove Fatigue Violations:

• Subpoena ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data
• Review dispatch records for schedule pressure
• Check driver’s medical certification for sleep disorders
• Analyze ECM (Engine Control Module) data for erratic driving patterns

Distracted Driving: A Growing Threat

With the rise of smartphones and in-cab technology, distracted driving has become a major problem:

• Cell Phone Use: Texting while driving is illegal for commercial drivers (49 CFR § 392.82)
• Dispatch Systems: Many trucks have onboard computers for communication
• Navigation Systems: GPS devices can distract drivers
• Eating/Drinking: Meals on the go take attention away from the road

In Spur’s rural environment, drivers may feel more comfortable taking their eyes off the road, but the dangers are just as real.

Improper Loading and Cargo Securement

Improperly loaded cargo causes accidents in several ways:

• Shifting Loads: Can cause rollovers or loss of control
• Overweight Loads: Increase stopping distance and stress on brakes
• Improper Securement: Can cause cargo to fall onto roadways
• Unbalanced Loads: Make trucks more prone to rollovers

Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) specify exactly how cargo must be secured, but violations are common in Spur’s agricultural and oilfield trucking sectors.

Poor Maintenance: A Recipe for Disaster

Trucking companies are required to systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles (49 CFR § 396.3). Common maintenance failures we see in Spur include:

• Brake Problems: Worn pads, improper adjustment, air leaks
• Tire Issues: Bald tires, improper inflation, mismatched duals
• Lighting Failures: Non-functioning headlights, brake lights, turn signals
• Steering Problems: Worn components, loose connections
• Coupling Device Failures: Faulty fifth wheels, kingpins, safety chains

Speeding: A Persistent Problem

Despite speed limits, many truck drivers exceed safe speeds, especially on Spur’s open highways. Speeding:

• Increases stopping distance
• Reduces reaction time
• Makes rollovers more likely on curves
• Increases the severity of crashes

Impaired Driving: Drugs and Alcohol

While less common than other violations, impaired driving still occurs:

• Alcohol: Drivers cannot operate with BAC of .04 or higher (49 CFR § 392.5)
• Illegal Drugs: Use of Schedule I substances is prohibited
• Prescription Drugs: Many medications impair driving ability
• Over-the-Counter Drugs: Some cold medications cause drowsiness

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Spur Trucking Accidents

The injuries from 18-wheeler accidents are often life-altering:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBIs are among the most devastating consequences of trucking accidents. The extreme forces involved can cause:

• Mild TBI (Concussion): Headaches, confusion, memory problems
• Moderate TBI: Extended unconsciousness, cognitive deficits
• Severe TBI: Permanent disability, coma, or death

Many TBI victims require lifelong care, with costs ranging from $85,000 to over $3 million.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

When the spinal cord is damaged, the results are often permanent:

• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
• Incomplete Injuries: Some nerve function remains

The lifetime cost of spinal cord injuries can exceed $5 million.

Amputations

The crushing forces in trucking accidents often result in:

• Traumatic Amputations: Limbs severed at the scene
• Surgical Amputations: Limbs removed due to severe damage

Amputees face ongoing medical costs for prosthetics, rehabilitation, and psychological support.

Severe Burns

Fuel fires, chemical spills, and friction burns are common in trucking accidents:

• First-Degree: Superficial damage
• Second-Degree: Blistering and potential scarring
• Third-Degree: Full-thickness burns requiring skin grafts
• Fourth-Degree: Damage extending to muscle and bone

Burn victims often require multiple reconstructive surgeries and face permanent disfigurement.

Internal Organ Damage

The forces in trucking accidents can cause:

• Liver and spleen lacerations
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusions or collapse
• Internal bleeding

These injuries are life-threatening and often require emergency surgery.

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents are fatal, families are left to cope with:

• Lost income and financial support
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Emotional trauma

Who Is Liable for Your Spur Trucking Accident?

One of the most important aspects of trucking accident cases is identifying all potentially liable parties. Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple responsible parties:

1. The Truck Driver

The driver may be liable for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving
• Fatigued driving
• Impaired driving
• Failure to inspect the vehicle
• Violation of traffic laws

2. The Trucking Company

Trucking companies are often the most important defendants because they have the deepest pockets. They may be liable for:

• Vicarious Liability: The company is responsible for the driver’s actions
• Negligent Hiring: Failing to check the driver’s background
• Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
• Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver behavior
• Negligent Maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate HOS rules

3. The Cargo Owner

The company that owns the cargo may be liable for:

• Improper loading instructions
• Failure to disclose hazardous cargo
• Overweight shipments
• Pressure to expedite delivery

4. The Loading Company

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement
• Unbalanced loads
• Overweight loads
• Failure to follow securement regulations

5. The Truck Manufacturer

Manufacturers may be liable for:

• Defective brake systems
• Faulty steering components
• Defective tires
• Unsafe fuel tank placement
• Defective safety systems

6. Parts Manufacturers

Companies that make specific components may be liable for:

• Defective brake parts
• Faulty tires
• Defective lighting systems
• Defective coupling devices

7. Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers may be liable for:

• Negligent repairs
• Failure to identify safety issues
• Using substandard parts
• Improper brake adjustments

8. Freight Brokers

Brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

• Negligent carrier selection
• Failure to verify carrier safety records
• Failure to check insurance coverage

9. Truck Owners (if different from carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may be liable for:

• Negligent entrustment
• Failure to maintain the vehicle
• Knowledge of driver unfitness

10. Government Entities

In rare cases, government entities may be liable for:

• Dangerous road design
• Failure to maintain roads
• Inadequate signage
• Improper work zone setup

The Critical 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

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

What Evidence Disappears Quickly?

Evidence Type	Destruction Risk
ECM/Black Box Data	Overwrites in 30 days or with new driving events
ELD Data	May be retained only 6 months
Dashcam Footage	Often deleted within 7-14 days
Surveillance Video	Business cameras typically overwrite in 7-30 days
Witness Memory	Fades significantly within weeks
Physical Evidence	Vehicle may be repaired, sold, or scrapped
Drug/Alcohol Tests	Must be conducted within specific windows

Our Immediate Action Plan

When you call Attorney911 after a Spur trucking accident, we spring into action immediately:

1. Send Spoliation Letters (Within 24-48 Hours)
We send formal legal notices to:

• The trucking company
• Their insurance company
• All potentially liable parties

These letters demand preservation of all evidence related to the accident, including:

• ECM/Black Box data
• ELD records
• Driver Qualification File
• Maintenance records
• Inspection reports
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Dispatch records
• Cell phone records
• The physical truck and trailer

2. Secure Electronic Data
We demand immediate download of:

• Engine Control Module (ECM) data
• Event Data Recorder (EDR) data
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
• GPS and telematics data
• Dashcam footage

This data shows:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Throttle position
• Following distance
• Hours of service compliance
• GPS location history

3. Preserve Physical Evidence
We take steps to secure:

• The truck and trailer
• Failed components (tires, brakes, etc.)
• Cargo and securement devices
• Tire remnants if a blowout was involved

4. Document the Scene
If possible, we:

• Photograph the accident scene
• Collect witness statements
• Document road conditions
• Photograph vehicle damage

Understanding FMCSA Regulations: The Key to Your Case

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates all commercial motor vehicles operating in interstate commerce. These regulations are your most powerful tool for proving negligence.

The 6 Critical Parts of FMCSA Regulations

Part	Title	Key Requirements
Part 390	General Applicability	Defines who must comply with regulations
Part 391	Driver Qualification	Who can drive, medical requirements, training
Part 392	Driving Rules	Safe operation, fatigue, drugs, alcohol
Part 393	Vehicle Safety	Equipment, cargo securement, brakes, lights
Part 395	Hours of Service	How long drivers can drive, required rest
Part 396	Inspection & Maintenance	Vehicle upkeep, inspections, records

Common FMCSA Violations in Spur Trucking Accidents

1. Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395)

• Driving more than 11 hours after 10 hours off
• Driving beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
• Not taking 30-minute breaks after 8 hours
• Exceeding 60/70-hour weekly limits
• False log entries (though ELDs have reduced this)

2. Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391)

• Hiring drivers without proper CDLs
• Failing to conduct background checks
• Not maintaining Driver Qualification Files
• Allowing drivers with suspended licenses
• Not verifying medical certification

3. Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396)

• Failure to conduct pre-trip inspections
• Deferred maintenance
• Improper brake adjustments
• Worn or defective tires
• Non-functioning lights

4. Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR Part 393)

• Inadequate tiedowns
• Improper load distribution
• Failure to use blocking or bracing
• Overweight loads

5. Drug and Alcohol Violations (49 CFR Part 392)

• Operating with BAC of .04 or higher
• Using Schedule I substances
• Using impairing prescription medications
• Possessing alcohol while on duty

The Multi-Million Dollar Results We’ve Achieved

At Attorney911, we’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims across Texas. While every case is unique, here are some examples of the results we’ve achieved:

• $5+ Million – Logging accident resulting in traumatic brain injury and vision loss
• $3.8+ Million – Car accident leading to partial leg amputation due to staph infection
• $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
• $2+ Million – Maritime back injury settlement
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience fighting for injury victims. He’s secured these results by:

• Thoroughly investigating every case
• Identifying all liable parties
• Preserving critical evidence
• Building strong cases for trial
• Negotiating aggressively with insurance companies

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Spur Trucking Accident Case?

1. We’re Spur’s Trucking Accident Specialists

We understand Spur’s unique trucking environment:

• The agricultural trucking that serves our community
• The oilfield traffic that passes through
• The regional distribution centers that operate here
• The rural road conditions that challenge drivers

2. We Have Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This is crucial for:

• Interstate trucking cases
• Cases involving federal regulations
• Complex multi-state litigation

3. We Have an Insider Advantage

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney. He knows:

• How insurance companies evaluate claims
• How adjusters are trained to minimize payouts
• What makes them settle cases
• How to counter their tactics

4. We Offer Spanish-Language Services

Many trucking accident victims in Spur speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español.

5. We Work on Contingency

You pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. There are no upfront fees or hidden charges.

6. We’re Available 24/7

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. We’re available nights, weekends, and holidays to take your call and begin protecting your rights.

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Spur

If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Spur, take these steps immediately:

1. Call 911

Report the accident and request medical assistance. Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries.

2. Seek Medical Attention

Go to the hospital or urgent care immediately. In Spur, your options include:

• Spur Emergency Medical Services – Local emergency responders
• Crosbyton Clinic – About 20 miles east of Spur
• Dickens County Hospital – In Spur (limited services)
• Covenant Medical Center – In Lubbock (for serious injuries)

3. Document the Scene

If you’re able, take photos and videos of:

• All vehicles involved
• Vehicle damage (inside and out)
• Skid marks and road conditions
• Street signs and traffic signals
• Your injuries
• The truck’s license plate and DOT number
• The trucking company name and logo

4. Collect Information

Get the following from all parties:

• Driver’s name and contact information
• Driver’s license number and CDL number
• Insurance information
• Trucking company name and contact information
• Witness names and phone numbers

5. Do NOT Give Statements

Do not give recorded statements to any insurance company. Anything you say can be used against you.

6. Call Attorney911 Immediately

The sooner you call us, the sooner we can:

• Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
• Begin our investigation
• Protect your rights
• Deal with insurance companies on your behalf

Frequently Asked Questions About Spur Trucking Accidents

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Spur?

Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly, and the sooner we begin our investigation, the stronger your case will be.

How much is my trucking accident case worth?

Case values depend on many factors:

• Severity of your injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
• Available insurance coverage

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation gives us leverage in settlement negotiations. Insurance companies know which attorneys are willing to go to court – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.

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 may still recover compensation as long as you were less than 50% at fault. Our job is to investigate thoroughly and prove what really happened.

What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?

Never accept a quick settlement offer 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.

Can I afford an attorney?

Yes. 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.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas law allows you to recover damages 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.

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.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

We investigate all potentially liable parties to ensure you can recover compensation. Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, other defendants (driver, cargo owner, maintenance company, etc.) may still be liable.

What if I don’t have health insurance?

We can help you get medical treatment through:

• Letters of Protection (LOP) with medical providers
• Medical payment coverage from your auto policy
• Health insurance if available
• Medicaid if you qualify

The Attorney911 Difference: How We Fight for You

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation

We act fast to preserve critical evidence before it disappears:

• Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
• Demand download of ECM/Black Box data
• Secure ELD records
• Preserve dashcam footage
• Obtain maintenance records
• Collect driver qualification files

2. Thorough Investigation

We leave no stone unturned:

• Interview all witnesses
• Analyze accident scene evidence
• Review police reports
• Consult accident reconstruction experts
• Examine medical records
• Investigate the trucking company’s safety history

3. Identify All Liable Parties

We pursue claims against everyone responsible:

• Truck driver
• Trucking company
• Cargo owner
• Loading company
• Truck manufacturer
• Parts manufacturer
• Maintenance company
• Freight broker
• Government entities (in rare cases)

4. Build a Strong Case for Trial

We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial:

• Retain top expert witnesses
• Prepare compelling demonstrative evidence
• Develop persuasive legal arguments
• Practice trial presentations
• Anticipate defense strategies

5. Aggressive Negotiation

We negotiate from a position of strength:

• Demand full compensation for all damages
• Reject lowball settlement offers
• Use our trial preparation as leverage
• Never accept less than your case is worth

6. Trial Advocacy

If necessary, we’re ready to take your case to court:

• Present powerful opening statements
• Examine witnesses effectively
• Introduce compelling evidence
• Deliver persuasive closing arguments
• Fight for maximum compensation

The Devastating Impact of Trucking Accidents on Spur Families

Trucking accidents don’t just cause physical injuries – they devastate entire families. We’ve seen firsthand how these accidents affect our Spur neighbors:

Financial Hardship

• Medical bills that quickly reach hundreds of thousands of dollars
• Lost income when injuries prevent work
• Reduced earning capacity for permanent disabilities
• Property damage to vehicles and personal belongings

Emotional Trauma

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Depression and anxiety
• Fear of driving or being on the road
• Grief and loss for families of wrongful death victims

Family Disruption

• Strained relationships from stress
• Loss of consortium for spouses
• Loss of parental guidance for children
• Increased caregiving responsibilities

Long-Term Consequences

• Permanent disabilities that require lifelong care
• Reduced quality of life
• Inability to participate in favorite activities
• Chronic pain and medical complications

Common Misconceptions About Trucking Accident Cases

“The trucking company will treat me fairly.”

Trucking companies and their insurance carriers are for-profit businesses. Their goal is to pay you as little as possible. They have teams of lawyers and adjusters working to protect their interests – you need someone protecting yours.

“I don’t need a lawyer – I can handle it myself.”

Trucking accident cases are complex. They involve:

• Multiple liable parties
• Federal regulations
• Complex insurance policies
• Sophisticated defense tactics
• High-stakes damages

Attempting to handle a trucking case without an attorney is like performing surgery on yourself – it’s risky and almost guaranteed to go wrong.

“All lawyers are the same.”

Not all attorneys have experience with trucking cases. You need a lawyer who:

• Understands FMCSA regulations
• Knows how to preserve electronic evidence
• Has experience with trucking company tactics
• Is prepared to take your case to trial

“I can wait to hire a lawyer.”

Every hour you wait, evidence disappears. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. The sooner you call us, the stronger your case will be.

“My case isn’t worth much because I was partially at fault.”

Texas law allows you to recover damages as long as you were less than 50% at fault. Even if you were partially responsible, you may still be entitled to significant compensation.

The Trucking Industry’s Dark Secrets

The trucking industry has many practices that put profits over safety:

The Pressure to Violate Hours of Service Rules

Trucking companies often pressure drivers to:

• Drive beyond legal limits
• Falsify logbooks (though ELDs have reduced this)
• Skip required breaks
• Work second jobs during “off-duty” time

The Revolving Door of Problem Drivers

When drivers are fired for safety violations, they often:

• Get hired by another company
• Don’t disclose their previous violations
• Continue driving despite poor safety records

The Maintenance Shell Game

Many trucking companies:

• Defer maintenance to save money
• Use substandard parts
• Hire unqualified mechanics
• Ignore known safety issues

The Training Gap

Many drivers receive:

• Minimal safety training
• Inadequate instruction on cargo securement
• Little education on hours of service rules
• No training on emergency maneuvers

The Insurance Loopholes

Trucking companies often:

• Carry minimal insurance
• Use complex corporate structures to limit liability
• Claim drivers are independent contractors
• Deny responsibility for accidents

How We Hold Trucking Companies Accountable

1. Proving Negligent Hiring

We investigate whether the trucking company:

• Failed to check the driver’s background
• Hired drivers with poor safety records
• Employed drivers with suspended licenses
• Ignored previous accidents or violations

2. Proving Negligent Training

We examine whether the company:

• Provided adequate safety training
• Taught proper cargo securement
• Educated drivers on hours of service rules
• Trained drivers on emergency procedures

3. Proving Negligent Supervision

We investigate whether the company:

• Monitored driver performance
• Enforced safety policies
• Addressed known violations
• Provided ongoing training

4. Proving Negligent Maintenance

We examine maintenance records to determine if the company:

• Deferred critical repairs
• Used substandard parts
• Failed to conduct required inspections
• Ignored known safety issues

5. Proving Negligent Scheduling

We review dispatch records to determine if the company:

• Pressured drivers to violate hours of service rules
• Created unrealistic delivery schedules
• Encouraged unsafe driving practices

The Devastating Impact of Trucking Accidents on Spur’s Community

Trucking accidents don’t just affect the individuals involved – they impact our entire community:

Economic Impact

• Lost productivity from injured workers
• Increased healthcare costs
• Higher insurance premiums
• Reduced property values near accident-prone areas

Social Impact

• Increased fear of driving
• Strained family relationships
• Reduced community participation
• Emotional trauma for witnesses

Infrastructure Impact

• Road closures during accident investigations
• Increased demand for emergency services
• Higher costs for road maintenance
• Need for improved safety measures

How You Can Help Prevent Trucking Accidents in Spur

While you can’t control what truck drivers do, you can take steps to protect yourself:

1. Be Aware of Truck Blind Spots

Trucks have four major blind spots:

• 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 the cab door backward
• Right Side No-Zone: Extends from the cab door backward and is much larger than the left side

If you can’t see the truck’s mirrors, the driver can’t see you.

2. Give Trucks Extra Space

• Never cut in front of a truck – they need much more distance to stop
• Don’t tailgate – you won’t be able to see ahead and may not have time to react
• Give trucks extra space when they’re turning

3. Be Cautious at Intersections

• Trucks often swing wide when turning right
• Never try to pass a truck on the right at an intersection
• Be patient – trucks take longer to clear intersections

4. Be Visible

• Make sure your headlights are on
• Use your turn signals early
• Avoid driving in a truck’s blind spots

5. Be Predictable

• Avoid sudden lane changes
• Don’t brake suddenly in front of trucks
• Maintain a consistent speed

6. Be Patient

• Trucks are slower to accelerate and decelerate
• They need more space to maneuver
• They can’t stop as quickly as cars

7. Report Unsafe Trucks

If you see a truck with:

• Visible mechanical problems
• Unsecured cargo
• Erratic driving behavior

Report it to the Texas Department of Public Safety by calling (800) 525-5555 or dialing *DPS (*377) from your mobile phone.

The Future of Trucking Safety in Spur

While trucking accidents remain a serious problem, there are promising developments that could improve safety:

1. Advanced Safety Technologies

Many newer trucks are equipped with:

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): Can prevent rear-end collisions
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Helps prevent rollovers
• Lane Departure Warning Systems: Alert drivers when they drift out of their lane
• Collision Warning Systems: Alert drivers to potential collisions
• Blind Spot Detection: Warns drivers of vehicles in their blind spots

2. Improved Hours of Service Compliance

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) have made it harder for drivers to falsify their logs. This has:

• Reduced hours of service violations
• Improved compliance with rest requirements
• Made it easier to prove fatigue-related accidents

3. Better Driver Training

Some companies are implementing:

• More comprehensive safety training
• Simulator-based training
• Ongoing education programs
• Mentorship programs for new drivers

4. Improved Road Design

Transportation departments are:

• Adding rumble strips to prevent lane departures
• Improving signage at high-risk intersections
• Adding truck escape ramps on steep descents
• Separating truck and car traffic where possible

5. Increased Enforcement

Law enforcement agencies are:

• Conducting more roadside inspections
• Using weigh-in-motion systems to identify overweight trucks
• Increasing penalties for safety violations
• Cracking down on hours of service violations

6. Public Awareness Campaigns

Organizations are working to:

• Educate the public about truck blind spots
• Teach drivers how to share the road safely
• Raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving
• Promote safe driving practices

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Spur, don’t wait to get help. Every hour you delay, evidence disappears and your case becomes harder to prove.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to take your call and begin protecting your rights.

Remember:

• We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win
• We advance all costs of investigation and litigation
• We have over 25 years of experience fighting trucking companies
• We offer Spanish-language services through Lupe Peña
• We’re available nights, weekends, and holidays

Don’t let the trucking company take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 today and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

“They treated me like FAMILY, not just another case number.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

“I got a very nice settlement after being hit by a commercial truck.”
— MONGO SLADE, Attorney911 Client

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

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