18-Wheeler Accidents in Concho County: Your Complete Legal Guide

When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Everything

The impact was catastrophic. One moment, you’re driving down US-87 or FM 1929 in Concho County, Texas. The next, an 18-wheeler is jackknifing across the highway, blocking all lanes. The physics are simple: your 4,000-pound car against an 80,000-pound truck. The results are often devastating – traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, permanent disabilities, or worse.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Concho County, you need more than just a lawyer. You need a legal team that understands the unique challenges of trucking cases, knows how to preserve critical evidence before it disappears, and has the resources to fight billion-dollar trucking companies.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. We know Concho County’s highways, we understand the trucking corridors that serve the region, and we know how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

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

Why Concho County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Concho County’s position in the Texas Hill Country creates unique trucking hazards that don’t exist in other parts of the state:

The US-87 Corridor: This major north-south route connects San Angelo to I-10, carrying heavy truck traffic from oil field operations, agricultural shipments, and cross-state freight. The highway’s mix of long straightaways and sudden curves creates dangerous conditions when truck drivers fail to adjust their speed.

FM 1929 and Rural Roads: Concho County’s network of farm-to-market roads presents unique challenges. Narrow lanes, limited shoulders, and sharp turns are difficult for large trucks to navigate safely. When drivers speed or fail to account for road conditions, accidents happen.

Oil Field Traffic: The Permian Basin’s expansion has increased truck traffic through Concho County. Oil field equipment, water haulers, and sand trucks create additional hazards on local roads not designed for heavy commercial traffic.

Seasonal Agricultural Shipments: Concho County’s agricultural industry generates seasonal spikes in truck traffic. Livestock haulers, grain trucks, and produce shipments all contribute to the county’s trucking risks.

Limited Emergency Services: Concho County’s rural nature means longer response times for emergency services. When a trucking accident occurs, it may take longer for help to arrive, making prompt medical attention and evidence preservation even more critical.

The Trucking Company’s Playbook – And How We Fight Back

Within hours of your accident, the trucking company’s rapid-response team springs into action. Their goals are clear:

1. Protect their interests – not yours
2. Minimize their liability
3. Destroy or hide evidence
4. Offer quick, lowball settlements

They know that black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. They know that dashcam footage gets deleted. They know that witness memories fade. And they’re counting on you not knowing how to fight back.

That’s where we come in.

Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for national defense firms. He knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers evaluate claims, minimize payouts, and deny legitimate injuries. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for accident victims like you.

“Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows how trucking insurers operate from the inside. He watched adjusters minimize claims. He saw how they train their people to lowball victims. Now he exposes those tactics and uses his insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation.”

What to Do Immediately After a Concho County Trucking Accident

The First 24 Hours Are Critical

1. Call 911 and report the accident

• Request police and emergency medical services
• Concho County Sheriff’s Office and Texas DPS will respond to major accidents
• A police report creates an official record of the incident

2. Seek medical attention immediately

• Even if you feel okay, adrenaline masks pain
• Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms immediately
• Concho County Medical Center and nearby San Angelo hospitals can evaluate your injuries
• Medical records create critical evidence for your case

3. Document everything at the scene

• Take photos of all vehicle damage (truck and your car)
• Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signals
• Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
• Collect witness contact information
• Note weather and lighting conditions

4. Do NOT give recorded statements

• Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you
• Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim
• Our firm includes former insurance defense attorneys who know their tactics

5. Call Attorney911 immediately

• We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve evidence
• Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days
• Dashcam footage gets deleted
• Witness memories fade quickly

“Every hour you wait, evidence in your Concho County trucking accident case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. Call Attorney911 NOW at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence.”

The Hidden Dangers of Concho County Trucking Accidents

Why These Crashes Are More Complex Than Car Accidents

1. Multiple Liable Parties
Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple liable parties:

• The truck driver – for negligent operation
• The trucking company – for negligent hiring, training, or supervision
• The cargo owner – for improper loading or hazardous materials
• The loading company – for improper cargo securement
• The truck manufacturer – for defective equipment
• The parts manufacturer – for defective components
• The maintenance company – for negligent repairs
• The freight broker – for negligent carrier selection
• Government entities – for dangerous road conditions

2. Federal Regulations Create Liability
Commercial trucking is governed by hundreds of federal safety regulations. When trucking companies violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that lead to accidents. Common violations we find:

• Hours of service violations – drivers exceeding 11-hour driving limits
• False log entries – falsifying ELD or paper log records
• Brake system deficiencies – improper maintenance or adjustment
• Cargo securement failures – improperly secured loads
• Drug and alcohol violations – operating under the influence
• Unqualified drivers – no valid CDL or medical certification
• Failure to inspect – no pre-trip inspections

3. Higher Insurance Limits Mean Higher Stakes
Federal law requires trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance:

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

These higher limits mean catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, but they also mean trucking companies fight harder to avoid liability.

4. Evidence Disappears Quickly
Critical evidence in trucking cases has a short shelf life:

• ECM/Black Box Data – overwrites in 30 days
• 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
• Physical Evidence – vehicles may be repaired or scrapped

Common Causes of Concho County Trucking Accidents

Understanding What Went Wrong

1. Driver Fatigue – The Silent Killer
Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. Federal regulations limit drivers to:

• 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

Yet drivers and companies routinely violate these rules to meet delivery deadlines. We’ve seen cases where drivers were on the road for 16+ hours straight, causing catastrophic accidents on Concho County highways.

2. Distracted Driving – The Modern Epidemic
Truck drivers face numerous distractions:

• Cell phone use (texting, calls, GPS)
• Dispatch communications
• In-cab electronics and entertainment systems
• Eating and drinking while driving
• External distractions (billboards, scenery)

Federal regulations prohibit hand-held phone use, but we still see drivers texting at 65 mph on US-87.

3. Improper Cargo Securement
Cargo securement violations are among the top 10 most common FMCSA violations. Improperly secured cargo can:

• Shift during transit, destabilizing the truck
• Fall onto roadways, creating hazards for other vehicles
• Cause rollover accidents on curves
• Create road debris that damages other vehicles

4. Brake Failures
Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. Common issues:

• 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

5. Tire Blowouts
Tire blowouts cause thousands of accidents annually. Common causes:

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

6. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)
Trucks need significant space to complete turns. When they swing wide, they create gaps that other vehicles enter, only to be crushed when the truck completes its turn.

7. Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)
Trucks have massive blind spots:

• Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front
• Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind
• Left Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward
• Right Side No-Zone: Much larger than left side – MOST DANGEROUS

8. Underride Collisions
Underride accidents occur when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of a trailer and slides underneath. The trailer height often causes the smaller vehicle’s passenger compartment to be sheared off at windshield level.

• Rear Underride: Vehicle strikes back of trailer
• Side Underride: Vehicle impacts side of trailer

Catastrophic Injuries from Concho County Trucking Accidents

The Life-Altering Consequences

The physics of trucking accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. When an 80,000-pound truck strikes a 4,000-pound car at highway speeds, the results are often devastating.

1. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In trucking accidents, this often happens when the head strikes the steering wheel, dashboard, or window.

Severity Levels:

• Mild (Concussion): Confusion, headache, brief loss of consciousness
• Moderate: Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits
• Severe: Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment

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

2. Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis
Damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of Paralysis:

• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
• Incomplete Injury: Some nerve function remains
• Complete Injury: No nerve function below injury

Lifetime Care Costs:

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

3. Amputations
Amputations occur when limbs are severed at the scene or when injuries are so severe that surgical amputation is required.

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

4. Severe Burns
Burns occur from fuel tank ruptures, hazmat cargo spills, electrical fires, and friction burns from road contact.

Burn Classification:

• First Degree: Epidermis only
• Second Degree: Epidermis and dermis
• Third Degree: Full thickness
• Fourth Degree: Through skin to muscle/bone

5. Internal Organ Damage
Common internal injuries include:

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

6. Wrongful Death
When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can pursue wrongful death claims to recover:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship and guidance)
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses before death
• Pain and suffering experienced before death
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

How We Prove the Trucking Company’s Negligence

Building Your Case Piece by Piece

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation
Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we send spoliation letters to:

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

Our letters demand preservation of:

• Electronic Data: ECM/Black Box, ELD records, GPS/telematics, dashcam footage
• Driver Records: Driver Qualification File, employment application, driving record
• Vehicle Records: Maintenance records, inspection reports, brake/tire records
• Company Records: Dispatch logs, HOS records, training materials, safety policies
• Physical Evidence: The truck and trailer, failed components, cargo securement devices

2. FMCSA Records Review
We obtain the carrier’s complete safety record:

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

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

3. Driver Qualification File Analysis
FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a file for every driver containing:

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

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

4. Electronic Data Analysis
We obtain and analyze:

• ECM/Black Box Data: Speed, braking, throttle position, fault codes
• ELD Data: Hours of service, driving time, GPS location
• Telematics Data: Real-time GPS tracking, speed, route
• Cell Phone Records: Call logs, text messages, app usage
• Dashcam Footage: Video of road ahead and driver behavior

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

5. Accident Reconstruction
We retain expert engineers to:

• Analyze skid marks and vehicle damage
• Reconstruct the accident sequence
• Determine speeds and braking distances
• Identify contributing factors
• Create animations showing what happened

6. Medical Causation Analysis
We work with medical experts to:

• Establish the connection between the accident and your injuries
• Document the full extent of your injuries
• Project future medical needs
• Calculate lifetime care costs

7. Economic Damages Calculation
We work with vocational and economic experts to:

• Calculate lost wages (past and future)
• Determine lost earning capacity
• Project future medical expenses
• Calculate life care costs for catastrophic injuries

The Damages You Can Recover

Compensation for Your Losses

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):

• 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):

• 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)

Recent Trucking Verdicts Show What’s Possible

Nuclear Verdicts Are Changing the Industry

The trucking industry is seeing unprecedented jury verdicts. These cases demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable:

What This Means For Your Case:
These verdicts show that juries are willing to award massive damages when trucking companies act with gross negligence. Insurance companies know this, which strengthens our position in settlement negotiations.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Concho County Trucking Case

25+ Years Fighting for Texas Truck Accident Victims

1. Proven Track Record of Results

• $50+ million recovered for Texas families
• Multiple multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts
• Experience against Fortune 500 trucking companies (Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, UPS)

2. Insider Knowledge of Trucking Insurance Tactics
Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for national defense firms. He knows exactly how insurance companies:

• Evaluate claims
• Train adjusters to minimize payouts
• Use recorded statements against victims
• Deny legitimate injuries
• Offer quick, lowball settlements

Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for accident victims like you.

3. Federal Court Experience
Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for interstate trucking cases that can be filed in federal court.

4. Immediate Evidence Preservation
We act fast to preserve critical evidence before it disappears:

• Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
• Demand immediate download of ECM/Black Box data
• Subpoena cell phone records
• Secure dashcam footage
• Preserve physical evidence

5. Comprehensive Investigation
Our investigation leaves no stone unturned:

• Driver Qualification File analysis
• Hours of service violation review
• Maintenance record examination
• Cargo securement evaluation
• Accident reconstruction
• Medical causation analysis
• Economic damages calculation

6. Trial-Ready Preparation
While most cases settle, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This creates leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready if the case goes to court.

7. Spanish-Language Services
Concho County has a significant Hispanic population, and many truck drivers are Spanish-speaking. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

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

8. Contingency Fee Representation
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.

Concho County Trucking Accident FAQ

Answers to Your Most Pressing Questions

1. What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Concho County?

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Concho County, 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

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. Concho County Medical Center and nearby San Angelo hospitals 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 Concho County?

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 Concho County?

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. Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Concho County?

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.

7. 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)

8. 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.

9. 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 but for trucks. 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.

10. 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.

11. 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.

12. 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

13. 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

14. 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 hours off
• 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.

15. 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 and alcohol violations
• Unqualified drivers (no valid CDL or medical certificate)
• Failure to inspect vehicles

16. 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.

17. 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.

18. What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in Concho County?

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

19. How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Concho County?

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.

20. What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in Concho County?

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.

21. How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Concho County?

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.

22. 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.

23. 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.

24. 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.

25. How much insurance do trucking companies carry?

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:

• $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
• $1,000,000 for oil, petroleum, and 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.

26. 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.

27. 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.

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

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.

29. How do cargo spills create liability?

Cargo spill and shift accidents occur when improperly secured cargo falls from a truck, shifts during transport causing instability, or spills onto the roadway. The cargo owner, loading company, and trucking company may all share liability for:

• Improper cargo securement
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
• Overloading beyond securement capacity
• Failure to re-inspect cargo during trip

30. What if a tire blowout caused my accident?

Tire blowout accidents occur when one or more tires on an 18-wheeler suddenly fail. Common causes include:

• Underinflated tires causing overheating
• Overloaded vehicles exceeding tire capacity
• Worn or aging tires not replaced
• Road debris punctures
• Manufacturing defects
• Improper tire matching on dual wheels

The trucking company, tire manufacturer, or maintenance provider may be liable.

31. How do brake failures get investigated?

Brake failure accidents occur when an 18-wheeler’s braking system fails or underperforms. 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

We investigate:

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

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

Dashcam footage can be powerful evidence in your case. We demand preservation of all dashcam footage from:

• Forward-facing cameras
• Cab-facing cameras
• 360-degree camera systems

This video evidence can show speed, following distance, driver behavior, and what happened in the moments leading up to the crash.

33. Can I get the truck’s GPS data?

Yes. We subpoena GPS and telematics data that shows:

• The truck’s exact route
• Speed throughout the trip
• Stops and duration
• Driver behavior patterns

This data can prove speeding, hours of service violations, and other negligent behavior.

34. What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, their insurance policy should still provide coverage for your claim. Additionally, other liable parties (driver, cargo owner, maintenance company, etc.) may have separate insurance policies.

35. How are future medical expenses calculated?

We work with life care planners and medical experts to:

• Document your current medical needs
• Project future medical requirements
• Calculate the cost of future care
• Create a comprehensive life care plan

This ensures your settlement accounts for all future medical expenses.

36. What is loss of consortium?

Loss of consortium is a claim for the impact of your injuries on your marriage and family relationships. It covers:

• Loss of companionship
• Loss of affection
• Loss of sexual relations
• Loss of household services
• Loss of guidance and nurturing (for children)

37. When are punitive damages available?

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)

Texas law allows punitive damages up to the greater of:

• Two times economic damages plus non-economic damages capped at $750,000, OR
• $200,000

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

When a defective truck component causes an accident, the manufacturer may be liable under product liability laws. Common defective components include:

• Brakes and brake systems
• Tires
• Steering mechanisms
• Coupling devices
• Lighting systems
• Safety equipment

We investigate:

• Recall notices and technical service bulletins
• Similar defect complaints
• Design specifications and testing records
• Component failure analysis

39. What if road conditions contributed to my accident?

Government entities may be liable for dangerous road conditions that contributed to your accident. Common issues include:

• Dangerous intersection design
• Inadequate signage for known hazards
• Failure to install safety barriers
• Improper work zone setup
• Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)

Special rules apply to government liability claims, including shorter notice requirements.

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

Yes. PTSD (Post-traumatic Stress Disorder) compensation is available. Symptoms include:

• Flashbacks and nightmares
• Severe anxiety and fear
• Avoidance of driving or accident scenes
• Depression and mood swings
• Sleep disturbances
• Difficulty concentrating

Documentation from doctors, psychologists, or therapists is required to support your claim.

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

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. As long as you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example:

• If you’re 20% at fault, you recover 80% of damages
• If you’re 51% at fault, you recover nothing

42. How do you prove the driver was fatigued?

We prove driver fatigue through:

• ELD data showing hours of service violations
• ECM data showing erratic driving patterns
• Dispatch records showing pressure to meet deadlines
• Cell phone records showing late-night communications
• Witness statements about driver behavior
• Medical records showing sleep disorders

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

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates commercial trucking in the United States. Their regulations create legal standards that trucking companies must follow. When companies violate these regulations, they create dangerous conditions that lead to accidents.

Common FMCSA violations we use to prove negligence:

• Hours of service violations (49 CFR Part 395)
• Driver qualification violations (49 CFR Part 391)
• Vehicle maintenance violations (49 CFR Part 396)
• Cargo securement violations (49 CFR Part 393)
• Drug and alcohol violations (49 CFR Part 382)

44. 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 (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.

45. What experts do you use in trucking cases?

We retain top experts to build your case:

• Accident Reconstructionists: Analyze crash dynamics
• Medical Experts: Establish causation and future care needs
• Vocational Experts: Calculate lost earning capacity
• Economic Experts: Determine present value of damages
• Life Care Planners: Develop comprehensive care plans
• FMCSA Regulation Experts: Identify all violations

46. How are wrongful death damages calculated?

Wrongful death damages in Texas include:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (spousal companionship and relationship)
• Loss of parental guidance and nurturing (for surviving children)
• Mental anguish and emotional distress
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred prior to death
• Pain and suffering experienced before death
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

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

If the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may apply. However, without adequate coverage, recovering full damages becomes challenging. We explore all available insurance policies to maximize your recovery.

48. What if I don’t have health insurance?

If you don’t have health insurance or can’t afford medical care, we can connect you with medical providers who will treat you under a Letter of Protection (LOP). This means they’ll be paid from your settlement rather than upfront.

49. Can I choose my own doctor?

Yes. You have the right to choose your own medical providers after an accident. While we can recommend doctors who understand personal injury cases, the choice is ultimately yours.

50. What should I do if the insurance company offers me a settlement?

Do NOT accept any settlement offer without consulting an attorney first. Insurance companies offer quick settlements to pay you far less than your case is worth. Once you accept, you waive your right to additional compensation – even if your injuries worsen.

Concho County Trucking Corridors: Where Accidents Happen

The High-Risk Zones

Concho County’s position in the Texas Hill Country creates unique trucking hazards. These are the areas where accidents are most likely to occur:

US-87 Corridor

• The primary north-south route through Concho County
• Connects San Angelo to I-10
• Carries heavy truck traffic from oil field operations and agricultural shipments
• Long straightaways followed by sudden curves create dangerous conditions
• Limited shoulders make breakdowns hazardous
• High speeds combined with truck traffic create rear-end collision risks

FM 1929 and Rural Roads

• Narrow lanes with limited shoulders
• Sharp turns and steep grades
• Mix of local and through truck traffic
• Agricultural equipment sharing the road
• Limited lighting at night increases risks
• Oil field traffic creates additional hazards

Intersection of US-87 and FM 1929

• Major intersection with heavy truck traffic
• Wide turns create squeeze play hazards
• Limited visibility in some directions
• High-speed approaches from US-87
• Trucks turning onto FM 1929 create bottlenecks

Oil Field Access Roads

• Heavy equipment traffic from Permian Basin operations
• Water haulers, sand trucks, and equipment transports
• Roads not designed for heavy commercial traffic
• Dust and debris create visibility hazards
• Fatigued drivers working long shifts

Agricultural Shipping Routes

• Seasonal spikes in truck traffic during harvests
• Livestock haulers with unique handling characteristics
• Grain trucks that may be overloaded
• Agricultural equipment sharing the road
• Dust and debris from field operations

The Concho County Advantage: Why Local Knowledge Matters

We Know Your Roads, Your Courts, and Your Community

1. We Understand Concho County’s Trucking Corridors
From the long straightaways of US-87 to the sharp turns of FM 1929, we know the roads where accidents happen. This local knowledge helps us:

• Identify dangerous intersections and curves
• Understand traffic patterns and congestion points
• Recognize seasonal traffic spikes (oil field, agriculture)
• Identify trucking routes used by local carriers

2. We Know Concho County’s Emergency Response
Concho County’s rural nature means:

• Longer emergency response times
• Limited trauma center access
• Volunteer fire departments in some areas
• Unique challenges for accident scene documentation

We understand these challenges and work to preserve evidence before it’s lost.

3. We Understand Concho County’s Legal Landscape
Concho County is part of the 51st Judicial District, which includes:

• Concho County Courthouse in Paint Rock
• Tom Green County Courthouse in San Angelo (for cases filed there)
• Local judges and court procedures
• Jury pools from Concho, Tom Green, and surrounding counties

This local knowledge helps us build stronger cases tailored to Concho County juries.

4. We Know Concho County’s Trucking Industry
Concho County’s economy includes:

• Oil field operations with heavy truck traffic
• Agricultural shipments (livestock, grain, produce)
• Local distribution centers
• Cross-state freight passing through

We understand the unique challenges these industries create and how to hold them accountable.

Your Next Steps: What to Do Right Now

Don’t Let Evidence Disappear

1. Call Attorney911 Immediately
Every hour counts in trucking accident cases. The sooner we start working on your case, the better we can preserve evidence and build your claim.

2. Don’t Give Recorded Statements
Insurance adjusters will call you quickly – often while you’re still in the hospital. They’re not calling to help you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim.

3. Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
Your health is the top priority. Follow all treatment recommendations, attend all appointments, and document your recovery. This creates critical evidence for your case.

4. Document Everything
Keep records of:

• All medical appointments and treatments
• Time missed from work
• How your injuries affect daily activities
• Pain levels and symptoms
• Expenses related to your injuries

5. Stay Off Social Media
Insurance companies will monitor your social media accounts. Even innocent posts can be used against you. Stay off social media until your case is resolved.

6. Let Us Handle the Trucking Company
We’ll deal with the trucking company, their insurers, and their lawyers. You focus on your recovery.

We’re Ready to Fight for You

Concho County trucking accidents change lives in an instant. One moment, you’re driving to work or heading home to your family. The next, you’re facing catastrophic injuries, mounting medical bills, and an uncertain future.

The trucking company has a team of lawyers working to protect their interests. You need someone fighting for yours.

At Attorney911, we have:

• 25+ years of experience fighting trucking companies
• A former insurance defense attorney on our team
• Federal court experience for complex cases
• A track record of multi-million dollar results
• The resources to take on billion-dollar corporations
• Offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont to serve you
• Spanish-language services for Concho County’s Hispanic community

We know Concho County’s roads, we understand its trucking industry, and we know how to win in its courts.

“You’re not just another case number—you’re family.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

Your Fight Starts With One Call

1-888-ATTY-911

We answer 24/7. Call now for your free consultation. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence before it disappears.

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

Don’t let the trucking company win. Call Attorney911 – we fight for you.