18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in City of Three Rivers, Texas | Attorney911

The Aftermath of an 18-Wheeler Crash in City of Three Rivers

The impact was catastrophic. One moment, you were driving along U.S. Highway 281 or FM 799 in City of Three Rivers, Texas. The next, an 80,000-pound truck was jackknifing across three lanes, crushing your vehicle. In an instant, everything changed.

You may be facing traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, or worse. The medical bills are piling up. You can’t work. And the trucking company’s insurance adjuster is already calling, pressuring you to accept a quick settlement.

At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through. Our City of Three Rivers trucking accident attorneys have been fighting for victims just like you for over 25 years. We know the highways around here—the dangerous stretches of U.S. 281 near the Live Oak County Courthouse, the busy intersections on FM 799, and the trucking corridors that feed into the Eagle Ford Shale region.

We also know how trucking companies operate. They have rapid-response teams that arrive at accident scenes within hours to protect their interests. They have lawyers working to minimize your claim. And they have insurance policies worth millions—because they know the damage their trucks can cause.

You need someone on your side who knows how to fight back.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different in City of Three Rivers

Trucking accidents aren’t like car accidents. The physics are different. The regulations are different. The stakes are higher.

The Size and Weight Disparity

A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh 80,000 pounds—20 to 25 times more than your average passenger car. When one of these trucks hits you at highway speeds, the force is devastating. The stopping distance for an 18-wheeler at 65 mph is 525 feet—nearly two football fields. That’s 40% longer than a car needs to stop. If a truck driver is following too closely or driving too fast for conditions on U.S. 281, they simply can’t stop in time.

The Complexity of Liability

In a car accident, you’re usually dealing with one driver and one insurance company. In a trucking accident, there are often multiple liable parties:

The truck driver (for speeding, fatigue, distraction, or impairment)
The trucking company (for negligent hiring, training, or supervision)
The cargo owner (for improper loading or overweight cargo)
The maintenance company (for brake failures or tire blowouts)
The truck manufacturer (for defective parts or design flaws)
The freight broker (for hiring an unsafe carrier)

Each of these parties has their own insurance policy, and each will try to shift blame to someone else. Our job is to hold all of them accountable.

The Federal Regulations That Protect You

The trucking industry is heavily regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations are designed to keep our roads safe, but trucking companies routinely violate them to cut costs and meet deadlines.

Some of the most commonly violated regulations in City of Three Rivers trucking accidents include:

Hours of Service (HOS) Violations (49 CFR § 395) – Drivers are limited to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, but many push beyond these limits due to pressure from dispatchers.
False Log Entries – Before electronic logging devices (ELDs), drivers falsified paper logs to hide HOS violations. Even with ELDs, some still find ways to cheat the system.
Brake System Deficiencies (49 CFR § 393.48) – Worn brakes or improper adjustments are a leading cause of rear-end collisions.
Cargo Securement Failures (49 CFR § 393.100-136) – Improperly secured loads can shift during transit, causing rollovers or spills that lead to multi-vehicle pileups.
Unqualified Drivers (49 CFR § 391) – Some trucking companies hire drivers with suspended licenses, poor safety records, or even falsified medical certifications.

When we take on your case, we subpoena all of these records to prove the trucking company’s negligence.

Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in City of Three Rivers

The highways and rural roads around City of Three Rivers see heavy truck traffic, especially from oilfield operations and agricultural shipments. Some of the most dangerous types of trucking accidents we handle include:

1. Jackknife Accidents

A jackknife occurs when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes. These accidents are common on wet or icy roads, or when drivers brake suddenly on U.S. 281.

Common Causes:

Sudden braking on wet or slippery roads
Speeding around curves
Empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing)
Brake failures or improper brake adjustment

Injuries:
Jackknife accidents often cause multi-vehicle pileups, leading to traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord damage, and wrongful death.

2. Underride Collisions

Underride accidents happen when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler. These are among the deadliest types of trucking accidents, often resulting in decapitation or catastrophic head and neck injuries.

Types:

Rear underride – Your vehicle slides under the back of the trailer
Side underride – Your vehicle slides under the side of the trailer during a lane change or turn

Common Causes:

Missing or inadequate underride guards
Sudden stops without warning
Trucks turning or changing lanes into traffic
Poor visibility (night, fog, or rain)

FMCSA Requirements:

Rear underride guards are required on trailers manufactured after 1998 (49 CFR § 393.86).
No federal requirement for side underride guards (though advocacy is ongoing).

3. Rollover Accidents

Due to their high center of gravity, 18-wheelers are prone to rollovers, especially when carrying top-heavy loads or taking curves too fast.

Common Causes:

Speeding on curves (common on FM 799 and rural Live Oak County roads)
Improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo
Liquid cargo “slosh” (shifting weight in tanker trucks)
Overcorrection after a tire blowout or lane departure

Injuries:
Rollovers often lead to crushing injuries, cargo spills, and multi-vehicle accidents.

4. Rear-End Collisions

Because of their massive weight, 18-wheelers require 40% more stopping distance than passenger vehicles. When truck drivers follow too closely or fail to brake in time, the results are devastating.

Common Causes:

Following too closely (tailgating)
Driver distraction (cell phone use, dispatch communications)
Driver fatigue (HOS violations)
Brake failures from poor maintenance
Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns

Injuries:
Rear-end collisions often cause whiplash, spinal cord injuries, TBI, and internal organ damage.

5. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Trucks need extra space to make turns, especially right turns. Drivers often swing wide to the left before turning right, creating a gap that smaller vehicles may try to enter—only to be crushed when the truck completes its turn.

Common Causes:

Failure to signal properly
Inadequate mirror checks
Improper turn technique
Driver inexperience with trailer tracking

Injuries:
These accidents often involve pedestrians, cyclists, or vehicles trapped between the truck and the curb, leading to crushing injuries, amputations, and wrongful death.

6. Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)

Trucks have four massive blind spots where the driver can’t 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 the cab door backward
Right Side No-Zone – Extends from the cab door backward and is much larger than the left side

Common Causes:

Failure to check mirrors before lane changes
Improperly adjusted mirrors
Driver distraction or fatigue
Failure to use turn signals

Injuries:
Blind spot accidents often result in sideswipes, rollovers, and crushing injuries.

7. Tire Blowout Accidents

Tire failures are a leading cause of trucking accidents, especially in the heat of a Texas summer. When a steer tire (front tire) blows out, the driver can lose control completely.

Common Causes:

Underinflated tires (causing overheating)
Overloaded vehicles (exceeding tire capacity)
Worn or aging tires not replaced
Road debris punctures
Manufacturing defects

Injuries:
Tire blowouts can cause jackknifes, rollovers, or debris strikes to following vehicles, leading to TBI, facial trauma, and wrongful death.

8. Brake Failure Accidents

Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes. When a truck’s brakes fail, the driver has no way to stop in time to avoid a collision.

Common Causes:

Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
Air brake system leaks or failures
Overheated brakes (brake fade) on long descents
Contaminated brake fluid
Defective brake components

Injuries:
Brake failures often lead to severe rear-end collisions, multi-vehicle pileups, and catastrophic injuries.

9. Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents

Improperly secured cargo can fall from a truck or shift during transit, causing rollovers, multi-vehicle accidents, or hazardous material spills.

Common Causes:

Inadequate tiedowns (insufficient number or strength)
Improper loading distribution
Failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats
Tiedown failure due to wear or damage
Overloading beyond securement capacity

Injuries:
Cargo spills can cause vehicles to strike debris, chain-reaction accidents, or hazmat exposure injuries.

10. Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are among the deadliest types of trucking accidents, often occurring when a truck crosses into oncoming traffic.

Common Causes:

Driver fatigue causing lane departure
Driver falling asleep at the wheel
Driver distraction (phone, GPS, dispatch)
Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
Medical emergency (heart attack, seizure)
Overcorrection after running off the road
Wrong-way entry onto divided highways

Injuries:
Head-on collisions at highway speeds are almost always fatal for passenger vehicle occupants.

Who Is Liable for Your 18-Wheeler Accident in City of Three Rivers?

One of the biggest mistakes accident victims make is assuming that only the truck driver is responsible. In reality, multiple parties may share liability for your injuries. At Attorney911, we investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

1. The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

Speeding or reckless driving
Distracted driving (cell phone use, texting, dispatch communications)
Fatigued driving (HOS violations)
Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
Violation of traffic laws (running red lights, improper lane changes)

Evidence We Pursue:

Driver’s driving record (previous accidents, violations)
ELD data (hours of service compliance)
Drug and alcohol test results
Cell phone records (distraction evidence)
Previous accident history
Training records

2. The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets (highest insurance limits) and the most responsibility for safety.

Bases for Liability:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

The driver was an employee (not an independent contractor)
Acting within the scope of employment
Performing job duties when the accident occurred

Direct Negligence:

Negligent Hiring – Failed to check the driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
Negligent Training – Inadequate training on safety, cargo securement, or HOS regulations
Negligent Supervision – Failed to monitor driver performance or ELD compliance
Negligent Maintenance – Failed to maintain the vehicle in safe condition
Negligent Scheduling – Pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations

Evidence We Pursue:

Driver Qualification File (or lack thereof)
Hiring policies and background check procedures
Training records and curricula
Supervision and monitoring practices
Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
Safety culture documentation
Previous accident/violation history
CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores

Insurance Implications:
Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than individual drivers—often $750,000 to $5,000,000 or more—making them the primary target for recovery.

3. The Cargo Owner / Shipper

The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable for:

Providing improper loading instructions
Failing to disclose the hazardous nature of the cargo
Requiring overweight loading
Pressuring the carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics

Evidence We Pursue:

Shipping contracts and bills of lading
Loading instructions provided
Hazmat disclosure documentation
Weight certification records

4. The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo onto trucks may be liable for:

Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
Unbalanced load distribution
Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
Not training loaders on securement requirements

Evidence We Pursue:

Loading company securement procedures
Loader training records
Securement equipment used
Weight distribution documentation

5. The Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

The company that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for product defects.

Bases for Liability:

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)

Evidence We Pursue:

Recall notices and technical service bulletins
Similar defect complaints (NHTSA database)
Design specifications and testing records
Component failure analysis

6. The Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for defective products.

Bases for Liability:

Defective brakes or brake components
Defective tires causing blowouts
Defective steering mechanisms
Defective lighting components
Defective coupling devices

Evidence We Pursue:

Failed component for expert analysis
Recall history for specific parts
Similar failure patterns
Manufacturing and quality control records

7. The Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets may be liable for negligent repairs.

Bases for Liability:

Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
Failure to identify critical safety issues
Improper brake adjustments
Using substandard or wrong parts
Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Evidence We Pursue:

Maintenance work orders
Mechanic qualifications and training
Parts used in repairs
Inspection reports and recommendations

8. The Freight Broker

Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for negligent carrier selection.

Bases for Liability:

Negligent selection of a carrier with a poor safety record
Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
Failure to check carrier CSA scores
Selecting the cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

Evidence We Pursue:

Broker-carrier agreements
Carrier selection criteria
Carrier safety record at time of selection
Broker’s due diligence procedures

9. The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may have separate liability.

Bases for Liability:

Negligent entrustment of the vehicle
Failure to maintain owned equipment
Knowledge of the driver’s unfitness

Evidence We Pursue:

Lease agreements
Maintenance responsibility allocations
Owner’s knowledge of driver history

10. Government Entities

Federal, state, or local government may be liable in limited circumstances.

Bases for Liability:

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

Special Considerations:

Sovereign immunity limits government liability
Strict notice requirements and short deadlines
Must prove actual notice of the dangerous condition in many cases

Evidence We Pursue:

Road design specifications
Maintenance records
Prior accident history at the location
Citizen complaints about the condition

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

In 18-wheeler accident cases, evidence disappears fast. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that arrive at accident scenes within hours to protect their interests. If you don’t act quickly, critical evidence will be lost forever.

Why 48 Hours Matters

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

The Spoliation Letter

What Is It?
A spoliation letter is a formal legal notice sent to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence related to the accident.

Why It Matters:

Puts defendants on legal notice of their preservation obligation
Creates serious consequences if evidence is destroyed
Courts can impose sanctions, adverse inferences, or even default judgment for spoliation
The sooner it’s sent, the more weight it carries

When We Send It:
IMMEDIATELY – within 24-48 hours of being retained. We don’t wait.

What the Spoliation Letter Demands

Electronic Data:

Engine Control Module (ECM) / Electronic Control Unit (ECU) data
Event Data Recorder (EDR) data
Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
GPS and telematics data
Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
Dispatch communications and messaging
Cell phone records and text messages
Qualcomm or fleet management system data

Driver Records:

Complete Driver Qualification File
Employment application and resume
Background check and driving record
Previous employer verification
Medical certification and exam records
Drug and alcohol test results (pre-employment and random)
Training records and certifications
Previous accident and violation history
Performance reviews and disciplinary records

Vehicle Records:

Maintenance and repair records
Inspection reports (pre-trip, post-trip, annual)
Out-of-service orders and repairs
Tire records and replacement history
Brake inspection and adjustment records
Parts purchase and installation records

Company Records:

Hours of service records for 6 months prior
Dispatch logs and trip records
Bills of lading and cargo documentation
Insurance policies
Safety policies and procedures
Training curricula
Hiring and supervision policies

Physical Evidence:

The truck and trailer themselves
Failed or damaged components
Cargo and securement devices
Tire remnants if a blowout was involved

ECM/Black Box Data Explained

What Is It?
Commercial trucks have electronic systems that continuously record operational data—similar to an airplane’s black box but for trucks.

Types of Electronic Recording:

System	What It Records
ECM (Engine Control Module)	Engine performance, speed, throttle, RPM, cruise control, fault codes
EDR (Event Data Recorder)	Pre-crash data triggered by sudden deceleration or airbag deployment
ELD (Electronic Logging Device)	Driver hours, duty status, GPS location, driving time
Telematics	Real-time GPS tracking, speed, route, driver behavior
Dashcam	Video of the road ahead, some record cab interior

Critical Data Points:

Speed Before Crash – Proves speeding or excessive speed for conditions
Brake Application – Shows when and how hard brakes were applied
Throttle Position – Reveals if the driver was accelerating or coasting
Following Distance – Calculated from speed and deceleration data
Hours of Service – Proves fatigue and HOS violations
GPS Location – Confirms route and timing
Fault Codes – May reveal known mechanical issues the driver ignored

Why This Data Wins Cases:
ECM/ELD data is objective and tamper-resistant. It directly contradicts driver claims of “I wasn’t speeding” or “I hit my brakes immediately.” This data has led to multi-million dollar verdicts in trucking cases.

FMCSA Record Retention Requirements

Minimum Retention Periods:

Record Type	Retention Period
Driver Qualification Files	3 years after termination
Hours of Service Records	6 months
Vehicle Inspection Reports	1 year
Maintenance Records	1 year
Accident Register	3 years
Drug Test Records (positive)	5 years
Drug Test Records (negative)	1 year

Why Our Spoliation Letter Extends These:
Once we send a preservation demand and litigation is anticipated, the duty to preserve extends beyond these minimum periods. Destroying evidence after receiving our letter can result in:

Adverse inference instructions (jury told to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable)
Sanctions and monetary penalties
Default judgment in extreme cases
Punitive damages for intentional destruction

Catastrophic Injuries from 18-Wheeler Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception.

The Size and Weight Disparity

Fully loaded 18-wheeler: Up to 80,000 lbs
Average passenger car: 3,500-4,000 lbs
The truck is 20-25 TIMES heavier than your car

Impact Force

Force = Mass × Acceleration
An 80,000 lb truck at 65 mph carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a car
This energy transfers to the smaller vehicle in a crash

Stopping Distance

18-wheeler at 65 mph: ~525 feet to stop (nearly 2 football fields)
Car at 65 mph: ~300 feet to stop
This 40% longer stopping distance means trucks can’t avoid obstacles as quickly

Common Catastrophic Injuries

1. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

What It Is:
TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In 18-wheeler accidents, the extreme forces cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull.

Severity Levels:

Level	Symptoms	Prognosis
Mild (Concussion)	Confusion, headache, brief loss of consciousness	Usually recovers, but may have lasting effects
Moderate	Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits	Significant recovery possible with rehabilitation
Severe	Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment	Lifelong disability, may require 24/7 care

Common Symptoms:

Headaches, dizziness, nausea
Memory loss, confusion
Difficulty concentrating
Mood changes, depression, anxiety
Sleep disturbances
Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
Speech difficulties
Personality changes

Long-Term Consequences:

Permanent cognitive impairment
Inability to work
Need for ongoing care and supervision
Increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s
Depression and emotional disorders

Lifetime Care Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity

2. Spinal Cord Injury

What It Is:
Damage to the spinal cord that disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of Paralysis:

Type	Definition	Impact
Paraplegia	Loss of function below the waist	Cannot walk, may affect bladder/bowel control
Quadriplegia	Loss of function in all four limbs	Cannot walk or use arms, may need breathing assistance
Incomplete Injury	Some nerve function remains	Variable—may have some sensation or movement
Complete Injury	No nerve function below injury	Total loss of sensation and movement

Level of Injury Matters:

Higher injuries (cervical spine) affect more body functions
C1-C4 injuries may require a ventilator for breathing
Lower injuries (lumbar) affect legs but not arms

Lifetime Care Costs:

Paraplegia (low): $1.1 million+
Paraplegia (high): $2.5 million+
Quadriplegia (low): $3.5 million+
Quadriplegia (high): $5 million+

These figures represent direct medical costs only—not lost wages, pain and suffering, or loss of quality of life.

3. Amputation

Types of Amputation:

Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the scene due to crash forces
Surgical Amputation: Limb so severely damaged it must be surgically removed

Common in 18-Wheeler Accidents Due To:

Crushing forces from truck impact
Entrapment requiring amputation for extraction
Severe burns requiring surgical removal
Infections from open wounds

Ongoing Medical Needs:

Initial surgery and hospitalization
Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ per prosthetic)
Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Occupational therapy for daily living skills
Psychological counseling

Impact on Life:

Permanent disability
Career limitations or total disability
Phantom limb pain
Body image and psychological trauma
Need for home modifications
Dependency on others for daily activities

4. Severe Burns

How Burns Occur in 18-Wheeler Accidents:

Fuel tank rupture and fire
Hazmat cargo spills and ignition
Electrical fires from battery/wiring damage
Friction burns from road contact
Chemical burns from hazmat exposure

Burn Classification:

Degree	Depth	Treatment
First	Epidermis only	Minor, heals without scarring
Second	Epidermis and dermis	May scar, may need grafting
Third	Full thickness	Requires skin grafts, permanent scarring
Fourth	Through skin to muscle/bone	Multiple surgeries, amputation may be required

Long-Term Consequences:

Permanent scarring and disfigurement
Multiple reconstructive surgeries
Skin graft procedures
Chronic pain
Infection risks
Psychological trauma

5. Internal Organ Damage

Common Internal Injuries:

Liver laceration or rupture
Spleen damage requiring removal
Kidney damage
Lung contusion or collapse (pneumothorax)
Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
Bowel and intestinal damage

Why Dangerous:

May not show immediate symptoms
Internal bleeding can be life-threatening
Requires emergency surgery
Organ removal affects long-term health

6. Wrongful Death

When a Trucking Accident Kills:
Wrongful death claims allow surviving family members to recover compensation when a loved one is killed by another’s negligence.

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim (Texas Law):

Surviving spouse
Children (minor and adult)
Parents (especially if no spouse or children)
Estate representative

Types of Claims:

Wrongful Death Action: Compensation for survivors’ losses
Survival Action: Compensation for decedent’s pain/suffering before death

Damages Available:

Lost future income and benefits
Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
Mental anguish and emotional suffering
Funeral and burial expenses
Medical expenses before death
Pain and suffering experienced by decedent before death
Punitive damages (if gross negligence)

Texas Statute of Limitations: 2 years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit

Commercial Truck Insurance & Damages

Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance far exceeding typical auto policies.

FMCSA Minimum Insurance Requirements

Cargo Type	Minimum Coverage
Non-Hazardous Freight (10,001+ lbs GVWR)	$750,000
Oil/Petroleum (10,001+ lbs GVWR)	$1,000,000
Large Equipment (10,001+ lbs GVWR)	$1,000,000
Hazardous Materials (All)	$5,000,000
Passengers (16+ passengers)	$5,000,000
Passengers (15 or fewer)	$1,500,000

Why This Matters For Your Case:
Unlike car accidents where insurance may be limited to $30,000-$100,000, trucking accidents typically have at least $750,000 available—and often much more. Many carriers carry $1-5 million in coverage.

This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.

Types of Damages Recoverable

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):

Category	What’s Included
Medical Expenses	Past, present, and future medical costs
Lost Wages	Income lost due to injury and recovery
Lost Earning Capacity	Reduction in future earning ability
Property Damage	Vehicle repair or replacement
Out-of-Pocket Expenses	Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications
Life Care Costs	Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life):

Category	What’s Included
Pain and Suffering	Physical pain from injuries
Mental Anguish	Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression
Loss of Enjoyment	Inability to participate in activities
Disfigurement	Scarring, visible injuries
Loss of Consortium	Impact on marriage/family relationships
Physical Impairment	Reduced physical capabilities

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence):
Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company or driver acted with:

Gross negligence
Willful misconduct
Conscious indifference to safety
Fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence)

Nuclear Verdicts – Documented Examples

Recent Major Trucking Verdicts (2024-2025):

Amount	Year	Location	Case Details
$462 Million	2024	St. Louis, MO	Wabash National – two fatalities in underride collision
$160 Million	2024	Alabama	Daimler – quadriplegic injury from rollover
$141.5 Million	2024	Florida	Defunct carrier crash
$90 Million	—	Houston, TX	Truck driver burned in explosion
$37.5 Million	2024	Texas	Trucking verdict (specifics confidential)
$35.5 Million	—	Texas	Family injured in truck accident
$35 Million	2025	Fort Worth, TX	Largest verdict in Tarrant County history

Historic Landmark Verdicts:

Amount	Year	Case Details
$1 Billion	2021	Florida – 18-year-old killed; $100M compensatory + $900M punitive for gross negligence in hiring
$411 Million	2020	Florida – 45-vehicle pileup; motorcyclist severely injured

Why Nuclear Verdicts Happen:
Juries award massive verdicts when they find:

Trucking company knowingly hired dangerous drivers
Company ignored safety violations for profit
Evidence was destroyed (spoliation)
Falsified hours-of-service logs
Pattern of similar violations
Corporate culture prioritizing profit over safety
Egregious disregard for human life

What This Means For Your Case:
These verdicts show what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable. Insurance companies know juries are willing to award massive damages—which strengthens settlement negotiations.

18-Wheeler Accident FAQ for City of Three Rivers Victims

Immediate After-Accident Questions

1. What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in City of Three Rivers?

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in City of Three Rivers, take these steps immediately if you’re able:

Call 911 and report the accident
Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
Document the scene with photos and video if possible
Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
Collect witness contact information
Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911

2. Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?

YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. City of Three Rivers has medical facilities like Live Oak Health System that can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

3. What information should I collect at the truck accident scene in City of Three Rivers?

Document everything possible:

Truck and trailer license plates
DOT number (on truck door)
Trucking company name and logo
Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
Photos of all vehicle damage
Photos of the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks
Photos of your injuries
Witness names and phone numbers
Responding officer’s name and badge number
Weather and road conditions

4. Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

NO. Do not give any recorded statements. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests.

5. How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney in City of Three Rivers?

IMMEDIATELY – within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence in trucking cases (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.

6. What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?

A spoliation letter is a legal notice demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. This includes ECM/black box data, ELD logs, maintenance records, driver files, and more. Sending this letter immediately puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.

Trucking Company & Driver Questions

7. Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in City of Three Rivers?

Multiple parties may be liable in trucking accidents:

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 (for road defects)

We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

8. Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?

Usually YES. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for:

Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified drivers)
Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)

9. What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs—the data tells the true story.

10. What is an owner-operator and does that affect my case?

An owner-operator is a driver who owns their own truck and contracts with trucking companies. This can complicate liability, but both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.

11. How do I find out if the trucking company has a bad safety record?

FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain the carrier’s:

CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
Inspection history and out-of-service rates
Crash history
Safety rating

A poor safety record can prove the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on the road.

Evidence & Investigation Questions

12. What is a truck’s “black box” and how does it help my case?

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data—similar to airplane black boxes. This data can show:

Speed before and during the crash
Brake application timing
Engine RPM and throttle position
Whether cruise control was engaged
GPS location

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

13. What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are federally mandated devices that record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued. Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents.

14. How long does the trucking company keep black box and ELD data?

ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events
FMCSA only requires 6 months retention for ELD data

This is why we send spoliation letters immediately—once we notify them of litigation, they must preserve everything.

15. What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We pursue:

ECM/Black box data
ELD records
Driver Qualification File
Maintenance records
Inspection reports
Dispatch logs
Drug and alcohol test results
Training records
Cell phone records
Insurance policies
The physical truck and trailer

16. Can the trucking company destroy evidence?

Once they’re on notice of potential litigation, destroying evidence is spoliation—a serious legal violation. Courts can:

Instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable
Impose monetary sanctions
Enter default judgment in extreme cases
Award punitive damages for intentional destruction

FMCSA Regulations Questions

17. What are hours of service regulations and how do violations cause accidents?

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
30-minute break required after 8 hours driving
60/70 hour weekly limits

Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. Drivers who violate these rules are too tired to react safely.

18. What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find:

Hours of service violations (driving too long)
False log entries (lying about driving time)
Brake system deficiencies
Cargo securement failures
Drug/alcohol violations
Unqualified drivers (no valid CDL or medical certificate)
Failure to inspect vehicles

19. What is a Driver Qualification File and why does it matter?

FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a file for every driver containing:

Employment application
Driving record check
Previous employer verification
Medical certification
Drug test results
Training documentation

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

20. How do pre-trip inspections relate to my accident case?

Drivers must inspect their trucks before every trip. If they failed to conduct inspections or ignored known defects (bad brakes, worn tires, lighting problems), both the driver and company may be liable for negligence.

Injury & Medical Questions

21. What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in City of Three Rivers?

Due to the massive size and weight disparity, trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries:

Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
Amputations
Severe burns
Internal organ damage
Multiple fractures
Wrongful death

22. How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in City of Three Rivers?

Case values depend on many factors:

Severity of injuries
Medical expenses (past and future)
Lost income and earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Degree of defendant’s negligence
Insurance coverage available

Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents. We’ve seen verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions.

23. What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in City of Three Rivers?

Texas allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover:

Lost future income
Loss of companionship and guidance
Mental anguish
Funeral expenses
Punitive damages if gross negligence

Time limits apply – contact us immediately to protect your rights.

Legal Process Questions

24. How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in City of Three Rivers?

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

25. How long do trucking accident cases 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.

26. Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court—and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys. We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way if necessary.

27. 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. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

Insurance Questions

28. How much insurance do trucking companies carry?

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:

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

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.

29. What if multiple insurance policies apply to my accident?

Trucking cases often involve multiple policies:

Motor carrier’s liability policy
Trailer interchange coverage
Cargo insurance
Owner-operator’s policy
Excess/umbrella coverage

We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.

30. Will the trucking company’s insurance try to settle quickly?

Often yes—and that’s a red flag. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

Additional Questions

31. What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Even if the driver is an independent contractor, the trucking company may still be liable for negligent hiring, training, or supervision. We investigate all relationships to determine liability.

32. How do cargo spills create liability?

Improperly secured cargo that falls from a truck or shifts during transit can cause rollovers, multi-vehicle accidents, or hazardous material spills. The cargo owner, loading company, or trucking company may be liable for negligent securement.

33. What if a tire blowout caused my accident?

Tire blowouts are often caused by:

Underinflation (causing overheating)
Overloading (exceeding tire capacity)
Worn or aging tires not replaced
Road debris punctures
Manufacturing defects

We investigate tire maintenance records, age, and condition to determine liability.

34. How do brake failures get investigated?

Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes. We investigate:

Brake inspection and maintenance records
Out-of-service inspection history
ECM data showing brake application
Post-crash brake system analysis
Driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs)

35. What if the truck’s dashcam recorded the accident?

Dashcam footage can be critical evidence. We demand preservation of all video footage, which may show:

Driver distraction or fatigue
Speed before impact
Brake application timing
Road conditions

36. Can I get the truck’s GPS data?

Yes. GPS and telematics data can show:

Route taken
Speed history
Stopping patterns
Driver behavior

This data can prove speeding, fatigue, or other violations.

37. What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, their insurance policy may still provide coverage. We also investigate other liable parties (cargo owner, maintenance company, etc.) to ensure you can still recover.

38. How are future medical expenses calculated?

We work with medical experts, life care planners, and economists to calculate:

Future surgeries and procedures
Rehabilitation and therapy costs
Medical equipment needs
Home modifications
Prescription medications

These costs are included in your claim.

39. What is loss of consortium?

Loss of consortium compensates family members for the loss of companionship, care, and intimacy due to a loved one’s injuries. This claim is available to spouses and, in some cases, parents or children.

40. When are punitive damages available?

Punitive damages may be awarded when the trucking company or driver acted with:

Gross negligence
Willful misconduct
Conscious indifference to safety
Fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence)

Punitive damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct.

41. How do product defects (brakes, tires) create liability?

If a defective part (brakes, tires, steering components) contributed to the accident, the manufacturer may be liable for:

Design defects
Manufacturing defects
Failure to warn

We investigate recall history, similar failures, and quality control records.

42. What if road conditions contributed to my accident?

Government entities may be liable for:

Dangerous road design
Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris)
Inadequate signage
Failure to install safety barriers

Special notice requirements and short deadlines apply to government claims.

43. Can I sue for PTSD after a trucking accident?

Yes. PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) compensation is available. Victims may experience:

Flashbacks
Fear, anger, sadness
Depression and anxiety
Insomnia

Documentation from a doctor, psychologist, or therapist is required.

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

Texas follows modified comparative negligence. You can recover damages as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

45. How do you prove the driver was fatigued?

We prove fatigue through:

ELD data showing HOS violations
Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
Cell phone records showing late-night calls
Witness statements about driver behavior
ECM data showing erratic driving

46. What is the FMCSA and how does it help my case?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the trucking industry. Their regulations provide clear standards of care that trucking companies must follow. Violations of these regulations prove negligence.

47. Can I access the trucking company’s safety record?

Yes. FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain the carrier’s:

CSA scores
Inspection history
Crash history
Safety rating

A poor safety record can prove the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on the road.

48. What experts do you use in trucking cases?

We work with:

Accident reconstruction experts (to determine how the crash happened)
Medical experts (to establish causation and future care needs)
Vocational experts (to calculate lost earning capacity)
Economic experts (to determine present value of damages)
Life care planners (to develop comprehensive care plans)
FMCSA regulation experts (to identify violations)

49. How are wrongful death damages calculated?

Wrongful death damages include:

Lost future income and benefits
Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
Mental anguish and emotional suffering
Funeral and burial expenses
Medical expenses before death
Pain and suffering experienced by decedent before death

We work with economists and financial experts to calculate these damages.

50. What happens if there’s not enough insurance?

If the trucking company’s insurance is insufficient, we explore:

Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage
Other liable parties (cargo owner, maintenance company, etc.)
Excess or umbrella policies
Personal assets of the trucking company

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your City of Three Rivers Trucking Accident Case?

1. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998. He has:

Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts
Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
Experience in BP explosion litigation against multinational corporations
Insider knowledge of commercial trucking insurance company tactics from former defense attorneys on our team
Deep familiarity with City of Three Rivers trucking corridors, weigh stations, distribution centers, and accident patterns

2. The Insurance Defense Advantage

Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for a national defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies:

Evaluate claims
Train adjusters to minimize payouts
Use recorded statements against victims
Deny legitimate claims

Now he uses that knowledge to fight for you, not against you.

3. Proven Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve secured millions for Texas families devastated by trucking accidents, including:

$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

4. Federal Court Experience

Trucking cases often involve interstate commerce and can be filed in federal court. Our admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas means we can handle the most complex cases.

5. Bilingual Services for City of Three Rivers

Many trucking accident victims in City of Three Rivers speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

6. Aggressive Evidence Preservation

We don’t wait. Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we send spoliation letters to preserve:

Black box/ECM data
ELD records
Dashcam footage
Maintenance records
Driver Qualification Files

Before the trucking company can destroy evidence.

7. Comprehensive Investigation

We leave no stone unturned. Our investigation includes:

Accident reconstruction by expert engineers
ECM/ELD data analysis
Driver Qualification File review
Maintenance record inspection
Dispatch log examination
Drug and alcohol test results
Cell phone record analysis
GPS/telematics data review

8. Holding All Parties Accountable

We identify every potentially liable party, including:

The truck driver
The trucking company
The cargo owner
The loading company
The truck manufacturer
The parts manufacturer
The maintenance company
The freight broker
The truck owner (if different from carrier)
Government entities (for road defects)

9. Trial-Ready Preparation

We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court—and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.

10. Compassionate, Personalized Representation

We treat our clients like family. You’re not just another case number. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a trucking accident takes on your life. Our team keeps you informed every step of the way.

What to Expect When You Call Attorney911

Step 1: Free Consultation

We listen to your story
We answer your questions
We evaluate your case at no cost

Step 2: Case Acceptance

If we believe we can help, we’ll explain our contingency fee agreement
You decide whether to move forward
We begin work immediately

Step 3: Investigation

We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
We deploy accident reconstruction experts if needed
We obtain police crash reports
We photograph your injuries and the accident scene
We identify all potentially liable parties

Step 4: Medical Care Facilitation

We help connect you with City of Three Rivers medical providers
We ensure you get the treatment you need
We document your injuries for your case

Step 5: Demand Letter

We send a comprehensive demand letter to the insurance company
We calculate all your damages (medical, lost wages, pain and suffering, future care)

Step 6: Negotiation

We negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement
We reject lowball offers
We prepare for trial if necessary

Step 7: Litigation (if needed)

We file a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires
We conduct discovery (depositions, document requests)
We build your case for trial

Step 8: Resolution

Most cases settle before trial
If necessary, we take your case to jury verdict
We fight for the maximum compensation you deserve

Don’t Let the Trucking Company Win

The trucking company has:
✅ Teams of lawyers
✅ Rapid-response investigators
✅ Millions in insurance
✅ A system for denying claims

You need someone who fights back.

At Attorney911, we have:
✅ 25+ years of trucking litigation experience
✅ A former insurance defense attorney on our team
✅ Federal court experience
✅ A track record of multi-million dollar recoveries
✅ The resources to take on the biggest trucking companies

We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Call Now – Before the Evidence Disappears

Every hour you wait, evidence in your City of Three Rivers trucking accident case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. Trucking companies hire lawyers to protect their interests—not yours.

Don’t let them win. Call Attorney911 now.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
🌐 attorney911.com
📧 ralph@atty911.com

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Free consultation. No fee unless we win. Available 24/7.

“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

City of Three Rivers trucking accident victims deserve justice. Let us fight for you.