18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Tolar, Texas

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident on Tolar’s highways, you need experienced legal representation that understands the unique challenges of trucking cases in Hood County. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we’re ready to put that experience to work for you.

Why Tolar Trucking Accidents Are Different

Tolar sits at the crossroads of several major trucking corridors that serve North Texas and beyond. The trucking routes through our area carry heavy freight from distribution centers, agricultural operations, and energy sector activities. This means:

• High volumes of commercial traffic on US-377 and FM-51
• Long-haul truckers passing through from Fort Worth, Stephenville, and Granbury
• Local delivery trucks serving Tolar’s businesses and agricultural operations
• Specialized freight including livestock, farm equipment, and construction materials

The combination of these factors creates unique risks for Tolar residents and visitors. When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic.

Common Causes of Tolar Trucking Accidents

Our experience handling trucking cases in Tolar and across Texas has shown us that most 18-wheeler accidents are preventable and result from:

Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)

Federal regulations limit truck drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, with mandatory 30-minute breaks. Yet we frequently see Tolar trucking accidents caused by:

• Drivers exceeding the 14-hour on-duty window
• Falsified log books (even with ELDs, some drivers find ways to cheat)
• Pressure from dispatchers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules
• Drivers working second jobs or long hours before starting their trucking shift

Case Example: We recently handled a case where a driver fell asleep at the wheel on US-377 near Tolar after working 18 consecutive hours. The resulting crash caused severe spinal injuries to our client.

Improper Maintenance

Trucking companies are required to systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles. Common maintenance failures we see in Tolar cases include:

• Worn brake pads that fail to stop the vehicle in time
• Bald tires that blow out on Texas highways
• Faulty steering components that cause loss of control
• Broken lights and reflectors that make trucks invisible at night
• Improperly secured cargo that shifts during transit

FMCSA Violation Spotlight: 49 CFR § 396.3 requires systematic inspection and maintenance. Failure to maintain proper records is itself a violation that can help prove negligence.

Distracted Driving

Despite federal prohibitions on hand-held phone use, we see many Tolar trucking accidents caused by:

• Texting while driving
• Using dispatch devices
• Eating or drinking behind the wheel
• Adjusting GPS or entertainment systems
• Daydreaming or “zoning out” during long, monotonous drives

Critical Evidence: Cell phone records and ECM data can prove distraction was a factor in your accident.

Improper Loading

Cargo securement violations are a leading cause of trucking accidents. In Tolar, we frequently see:

• Overloaded trailers exceeding weight limits
• Unevenly distributed cargo that affects vehicle stability
• Improperly secured loads that shift during transit
• Hazardous materials not properly contained
• Livestock not properly secured in transport

FMCSA Requirements: 49 CFR § 393.100-136 specifies exact cargo securement standards. Violations of these rules can prove negligence in your case.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Trucks require significantly longer stopping distances than passenger vehicles. On Tolar’s highways:

• A fully loaded truck traveling at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to stop
• Speeding reduces this already long stopping distance
• Reckless maneuvers like unsafe lane changes are especially dangerous
• Following too closely (tailgating) is a common cause of rear-end collisions

Local Knowledge: We know which stretches of US-377 and FM-51 have the most speeding violations among commercial vehicles.

Types of Trucking Accidents We Handle in Tolar

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes. These are particularly dangerous on Tolar’s two-lane highways where there’s no escape route.

Common Causes in Tolar:

• Sudden braking on wet or gravel roads
• Speeding on curves
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing)
• Brake failures
• Improper cargo loading

Rollover Accidents

Tolar’s rural roads with sharp curves and sudden elevation changes create ideal conditions for rollover accidents.

Common Causes:

• Taking curves too fast
• Top-heavy loads (common with livestock and construction equipment)
• Sudden steering maneuvers to avoid animals or debris
• Tire blowouts
• Wind gusts affecting high-profile trailers

Underride Collisions

These horrific accidents occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath a truck’s trailer. The trailer often shears off the top of the smaller vehicle.

Tolar-Specific Risks:

• Poor lighting on rural roads increases underride risk at night
• Local trucking companies may not have proper underride guards
• Agricultural equipment often lacks adequate lighting and reflectors

Rear-End Collisions

Trucks require much longer stopping distances than cars. When a truck rear-ends a passenger vehicle, the results are often fatal.

Common Scenarios in Tolar:

• Trucks following too closely on US-377
• Distracted truck drivers not noticing traffic slowing
• Brake failures on long descents
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reaction times

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Trucks need extra space to make turns, especially right turns. These accidents occur when a truck swings wide before turning right, creating a gap that other vehicles enter.

Tolar-Specific Issues:

• Narrow intersections in downtown Tolar
• Rural driveways where trucks turn into farm properties
• Lack of designated truck turning lanes at key intersections

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone” Accidents)

Trucks have massive blind spots where the driver cannot see other vehicles. The right-side blind spot is particularly dangerous.

Common Tolar Scenarios:

• Trucks changing lanes on US-377 without seeing vehicles in blind spots
• Vehicles lingering in blind spots during lane changes
• Trucks turning right without seeing vehicles in the right-side blind spot

Catastrophic Injuries from Tolar Trucking Accidents

The physics of trucking accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm rather than the exception:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The extreme forces involved in trucking accidents frequently cause TBIs, ranging from mild concussions to severe brain damage requiring lifelong care.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries often result in partial or complete paralysis. Tolar residents who suffer spinal cord injuries may require home modifications and lifelong medical care.
• Amputations: The crushing forces in trucking accidents can sever limbs or require surgical amputation.
• Severe Burns: Fuel tank ruptures and cargo fires can cause devastating burns requiring multiple surgeries and skin grafts.
• Internal Organ Damage: The impact forces can rupture internal organs, causing life-threatening internal bleeding.
• Wrongful Death: Tragically, many Tolar trucking accidents result in fatalities. We help surviving family members pursue wrongful death claims.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Tolar Trucking Accident Case

Local Knowledge Meets National Experience

While we handle trucking cases across Texas, we have deep roots in the Tolar community. Our team understands:

• The specific trucking corridors serving Tolar
• Local courts and judges in Hood County
• Common accident patterns on US-377 and FM-51
• The agricultural and energy sector trucking that dominates our area
• Local medical facilities and their capabilities

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes former insurance defense attorneys who know exactly how trucking insurance companies operate. We know:

• How they train adjusters to minimize claims
• What makes them offer fair settlements
• How they deny valid claims
• What evidence they find most persuasive
• When they’re bluffing about case value

This insider knowledge gives our Tolar clients a significant advantage in settlement negotiations.

Aggressive Evidence Preservation

We act immediately to preserve critical evidence in your Tolar trucking accident case:

• Spoliation Letters: Sent within 24-48 hours to all potentially liable parties
• Black Box Data: ECM/EDR data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days
• ELD Records: Electronic logging device data proves hours of service violations
• Dashcam Footage: Often deleted within days if not preserved
• Physical Evidence: Vehicles may be repaired or scrapped quickly
• Witness Statements: Memories fade rapidly after an accident

Critical Timeline: Evidence in trucking cases disappears fast. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

Comprehensive Investigation Process

Our Tolar trucking accident investigations include:

1. Immediate Scene Investigation: We visit the accident scene as soon as possible to document conditions, skid marks, and other physical evidence.
2. Electronic Data Retrieval: We obtain and analyze ECM, ELD, and GPS data.
3. Driver Qualification Review: We examine the driver’s employment file for hiring violations.
4. Maintenance Record Analysis: We review maintenance records for deferred repairs.
5. Accident Reconstruction: We work with expert engineers to reconstruct how the accident occurred.
6. Medical Record Review: We document your injuries and treatment plan.
7. Economic Analysis: We calculate your past and future economic losses.
8. Liability Analysis: We identify all potentially liable parties.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our track record speaks for itself:

• $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

Federal Court Experience

We’re admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, which is crucial for:

• Interstate trucking cases
• Complex multi-party litigation
• Cases involving federal regulations
• High-value cases that may exceed state court limits

Bilingual Services

Tolar has a significant Hispanic community, and many of our agricultural and energy sector truck drivers speak Spanish as their primary language. Our team includes Spanish-speaking attorneys and staff, including:

• Lupe Peña: Our associate attorney who is fluent in Spanish
• Zulema: Our Spanish translator praised in client reviews
• Additional bilingual staff members

Hablamos español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.

What to Do After a Tolar Trucking Accident

Immediate Steps

1. Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance.
2. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked out. Adrenaline masks pain, and some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately.
3. Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of:
   • All vehicles involved
   • Damage to your vehicle
   • The truck and trailer (including DOT number and company name)
   • Road conditions
   • Skid marks
   • Traffic signs and signals
   • Your injuries
4. Collect Information:
   • Truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
   • Trucking company name and contact information
   • Insurance information for all parties
   • Witness names and contact information
5. Do NOT Give Statements: Do not give recorded statements to any insurance company without consulting an attorney first.

Within 24-48 Hours

1. Contact Attorney911: The sooner we can send spoliation letters, the better we can preserve evidence.
2. Follow Up on Medical Treatment: Continue with all recommended medical care.
3. Document Everything: Keep a journal of your symptoms, medical appointments, and how your injuries affect your daily life.
4. Avoid Social Media: Insurance companies will use your posts against you.

Common Questions About Tolar Trucking Accidents

Who can I sue after a Tolar 18-wheeler accident?

Multiple parties may be liable in your case:

• The truck driver (for negligent operation)
• The trucking company (for vicarious liability and direct negligence)
• The cargo owner (for improper loading instructions)
• The loading company (for improper cargo securement)
• Truck or parts manufacturers (for defective products)
• Maintenance companies (for negligent repairs)
• Freight brokers (for negligent carrier selection)
• Government entities (for road defects)

We investigate all potentially liable parties to maximize your recovery.

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

Usually yes. Trucking companies can be held liable through:

• Respondeat Superior: Employers are responsible for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment.
• Direct Negligence: The company may 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)

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:

• If you’re less than 50% at fault, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault.
• If you’re 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything.

Our job is to investigate thoroughly and prove what really happened. Truck drivers often lie to protect their jobs – the evidence tells the true story.

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

Commercial trucks have electronic systems that record operational data:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Engine RPM and throttle position
• Following distance
• Hours of service compliance
• GPS location

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

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
• ELD data must be retained for 6 months under FMCSA rules
• Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days

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

What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We pursue comprehensive records including:

• 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

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Tolar?

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.

How long do I have to file a Tolar trucking accident lawsuit?

Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

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.

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.

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.

Tolar Trucking Corridors We Know Well

US-377

This major north-south route connects Tolar to Fort Worth and Stephenville. It carries:

• Long-haul freight between Mexico and the Midwest
• Agricultural products from rural areas
• Livestock transport
• Construction materials

Common Accident Locations:

• Sharp curves north and south of town
• Intersections with FM-51 and other rural roads
• Areas where the highway narrows
• Stretches with limited lighting at night

FM-51

This east-west route serves local traffic and connects to US-377. It carries:

• Local delivery trucks
• Agricultural equipment
• Energy sector vehicles
• School buses

Common Accident Locations:

• Intersections with US-377
• Narrow bridges
• Areas with limited shoulder space
• Sharp curves near rural properties

Local Roads

Tolar’s rural roads present unique challenges:

• Narrow lanes with limited escape routes
• Gravel shoulders that can cause loss of control
• Livestock crossings that require sudden braking
• Limited lighting increasing nighttime accident risks
• Sharp curves that surprise inattentive drivers
• Seasonal traffic from agricultural activities

Why Tolar Residents Trust Attorney911

We’re Part of the Tolar Community

While we handle cases across Texas, we’re proud to serve our neighbors in Tolar and Hood County. We understand:

• The challenges of rural living
• The importance of agriculture and energy to our local economy
• The unique trucking patterns in our area
• The values of our community

We Treat Clients Like Family

As one of our clients said:

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

We understand that after a trucking accident, you need more than just legal representation – you need compassion, support, and someone who will fight for you like family.

We Take Cases Other Firms Reject

As another client shared:

“In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”
— Greg Garcia, Attorney911 Client

We believe everyone deserves quality legal representation, regardless of how complex or challenging their case may seem.

We Solve Cases Faster Than Competitors

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client

Our aggressive approach and insider knowledge of insurance company tactics allow us to resolve cases efficiently while maximizing your recovery.

Contact Tolar’s Trusted Trucking Accident Attorneys

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Tolar, Texas, don’t wait to get the help you need. Evidence is disappearing every day, and the trucking company’s insurance adjusters are already working to protect their interests.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

We offer:

• Free case evaluations – No obligation
• 24/7 availability – We answer calls immediately
• No upfront costs – You pay nothing unless we win
• Bilingual services – Hablamos español
• Local knowledge – We understand Tolar’s unique trucking challenges

Our Tolar trucking accident attorneys work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.

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

Don’t let the trucking company take advantage of you. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.