18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Crockett County, Texas | Attorney911

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Crockett County, Texas, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. The aftermath of a commercial truck crash leaves victims with devastating injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about the future. At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through, and we’re here to help.

Our Crockett County trucking accident attorneys have been fighting for victims just like you for over 25 years. We know the tactics trucking companies use to avoid responsibility, and we know how to counter them. When you call us at 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re not just getting a lawyer—you’re getting a team that treats you like family and fights for every dollar you deserve.

Why Crockett County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Crockett County’s location along major transportation routes creates unique risks for trucking accidents. The area is served by several key highways that see heavy commercial traffic:

• US-190 – This east-west corridor connects Sonora with Eldorado and beyond, carrying significant freight traffic through the county
• US-377 – Running north-south through Ozona, this route sees truck traffic serving local ranching and oilfield operations
• I-10 corridor – While not directly through Crockett County, this major interstate is nearby and serves as a primary freight route across Texas
• State Highway 163 – Connecting Ozona to Barnhart and the Permian Basin, this route carries oilfield equipment and supplies

These highways present unique challenges for truck drivers and passenger vehicles alike. The combination of commercial traffic, local drivers, and the region’s geography creates accident risks that require specialized legal knowledge.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Crockett County

Trucking accidents in Crockett County often result from specific local factors:

1. Fatigue from Long Hauls – Drivers traveling through Crockett County on US-190 or US-377 may be nearing the end of their federally-mandated driving limits, leading to dangerous fatigue

2. Oilfield Traffic – The county’s proximity to oil and gas operations means heavy equipment transport, creating unique traffic patterns and hazards

3. Weather Conditions – Sudden weather changes, including high winds and occasional ice, can create dangerous conditions for high-profile trucks

4. Rural Road Challenges – Many local roads in Crockett County weren’t designed for heavy truck traffic, leading to dangerous interactions between large trucks and smaller vehicles

5. Cargo Securement Issues – Improperly secured loads from oilfield equipment, livestock, or agricultural products can shift during transport, causing rollovers or spills

6. Driver Distraction – The long stretches of highway through Crockett County can lead to driver complacency and distraction

The Devastating Impact of Trucking Accidents

When an 80,000-pound 18-wheeler collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. The size and weight disparity means that trucking accidents frequently result in:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – The violent forces in a truck collision can cause severe brain trauma, leading to cognitive impairment, memory loss, and personality changes

• Spinal Cord Injuries – These injuries can result in paralysis, either paraplegia (loss of function below the waist) or quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs)

• Amputations – The crushing forces in truck accidents can sever limbs at the scene or require surgical amputation later

• Severe Burns – Fuel tank ruptures and cargo fires can cause life-threatening burns requiring extensive treatment

• Internal Organ Damage – The impact forces can rupture organs, causing internal bleeding that may not be immediately apparent

• Wrongful Death – Tragically, many trucking accidents in Crockett County result in fatalities

The physical injuries are just part of the story. Victims often face emotional trauma, lost income, and the uncertainty of long-term medical needs. The trucking companies know this, and they have teams of lawyers working to minimize their liability. You need someone on your side who knows how to fight back.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Crockett County Trucking Case

1. We’re Crockett County Trucking Accident Specialists

While many law firms handle car accidents, we specialize in 18-wheeler and commercial trucking cases. We understand the complex web of federal regulations that govern the trucking industry, and we know how to use those regulations to build strong cases for our clients.

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been handling trucking cases since 1998. He’s seen firsthand how trucking companies cut corners on safety, and he knows how to hold them accountable. With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we’re never far from Crockett County when you need us.

2. We Have Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

One of our greatest advantages is that our team includes attorneys who used to work for the other side. Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working at a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate claims, how they train their adjusters to minimize payouts, and what tactics they use to deny legitimate claims.

This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting cases to juries. We know their playbook because we used to write it.

3. We Move Fast to Preserve Critical Evidence

In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears quickly. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witness memories fade. That’s why we act immediately when you call us.

Within 24-48 hours of taking your case, we send formal preservation letters to the trucking company, their insurer, and all other potentially liable parties. These letters demand that they preserve all evidence related to your accident, including:

• ECM/Black Box Data – Records speed, braking, throttle position, and other critical data
• ELD Records – Electronic logs showing driver hours and compliance with federal regulations
• Driver Qualification Files – Documentation of the driver’s training, experience, and medical fitness
• Maintenance Records – Proof of vehicle upkeep and any deferred repairs
• Cell Phone Records – Evidence of distracted driving
• Dashcam Footage – Video of the accident and driver behavior
• Cargo Documentation – Bills of lading and loading records

This evidence is crucial for proving negligence and securing maximum compensation for your injuries.

4. We Have a Proven Track Record of Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our firm has recovered over $50 million for accident victims across Texas. While every case is unique, our results demonstrate our ability to secure significant compensation for our clients:

• $5+ Million – Logging accident 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 wrongful death cases

These results reflect our commitment to fighting for maximum compensation for our clients. We don’t settle for the first offer—we fight for what you truly deserve.

5. We Offer Bilingual Services for Crockett County’s Hispanic Community

Crockett County has a significant Hispanic population, many of whom work in the trucking and oilfield industries. We understand the unique challenges faced by Spanish-speaking accident victims, and we’re proud to offer bilingual services.

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, allowing us to communicate directly with Spanish-speaking clients without the need for interpreters. This ensures clear communication and builds trust throughout the legal process.

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

6. We Work on Contingency – You Pay Nothing Unless We Win

We understand that after a serious accident, medical bills and lost income can create financial stress. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we recover compensation for you.

Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict, not from your pocket. This means you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal fight.

The Most Common FMCSA Violations in Crockett County Trucking Accidents

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the trucking industry through a comprehensive set of rules designed to keep our highways safe. When trucking companies and drivers violate these regulations, they put everyone at risk. In our experience handling Crockett County trucking cases, these are the most common FMCSA violations we encounter:

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

Fatigue is one of the leading causes of trucking accidents. FMCSA regulations limit how long drivers can operate to prevent fatigue-related crashes:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit – Drivers cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour On-Duty Window – Drivers cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• 30-Minute Break Requirement – Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limits – Drivers cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days

How This Affects Your Case:
When drivers violate these rules, they’re operating while dangerously fatigued. ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data can prove these violations, establishing clear negligence on the part of both the driver and the trucking company.

2. False Log Entries

Before ELDs, drivers kept paper logs of their hours. Even with electronic logs, falsification can still occur. Drivers may:

• Log off-duty time while actually driving
• Claim breaks that weren’t taken
• Underreport driving hours

How This Affects Your Case:
Falsified logs demonstrate a conscious attempt to conceal violations. This can support claims for punitive damages in addition to compensatory damages.

3. Brake System Deficiencies (49 CFR § 393.40-55)

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. Common brake violations include:

• Worn brake pads or shoes
• Improper brake adjustment
• Air brake system leaks
• Contaminated brake fluid

How This Affects Your Case:
Brake failures often result in rear-end collisions or runaway trucks. Maintenance records can prove whether the trucking company knew about brake problems and failed to address them.

4. Cargo Securement Failures (49 CFR § 393.100-136)

Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, causing:

• Loss of vehicle control
• Rollover accidents
• Cargo spills that create hazards for other vehicles

How This Affects Your Case:
Cargo securement violations are often visible at the accident scene. Load distribution records and securement equipment can prove negligence in loading procedures.

5. Unqualified Drivers (49 CFR Part 391)

FMCSA regulations establish minimum qualifications for commercial drivers. Violations include:

• Drivers without valid CDLs
• Drivers with suspended or revoked licenses
• Drivers without current medical certification
• Drivers with disqualifying medical conditions

How This Affects Your Case:
Driver Qualification Files (DQFs) contain the documentation that trucking companies must maintain for each driver. Missing or incomplete files can prove negligent hiring practices.

6. Drug and Alcohol Violations (49 CFR § 392.4-5)

Commercial drivers are prohibited from:

• Operating under the influence of alcohol (.04 BAC or higher)
• Using controlled substances while on duty
• Possessing alcohol or drugs while on duty

How This Affects Your Case:
Drug and alcohol test results can provide clear evidence of impairment at the time of the accident. Refusal to submit to testing can also be used against the driver and company.

7. Mobile Phone Use (49 CFR § 392.82)

Commercial drivers are prohibited from:

• Using hand-held mobile phones while driving
• Texting while driving
• Reaching for phones in a manner that requires leaving the seated position

How This Affects Your Case:
Cell phone records can prove distraction at the time of the accident. Even hands-free use can be argued as a distraction in some circumstances.

8. Failure to Inspect (49 CFR § 396.13)

Drivers must inspect their vehicles before each trip and report any defects. Common inspection failures include:

• Not conducting pre-trip inspections
• Ignoring known defects
• Failing to report defects to the company

How This Affects Your Case:
Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs) can prove that the driver and company knew about safety issues but failed to address them.

How We Prove Negligence in Your Crockett County Trucking Case

Building a strong trucking accident case requires a comprehensive investigation. At Attorney911, we leave no stone unturned when gathering evidence to prove negligence:

1. Electronic Data Recovery

Modern trucks are equipped with sophisticated electronic systems that record critical data:

• ECM/Black Box Data – Records speed, braking, throttle position, and other operational parameters
• ELD Data – Electronic logs showing driver hours and compliance with federal regulations
• GPS/Telematics Data – Provides location history and driving patterns
• Dashcam Footage – Video evidence of the accident and driver behavior

This data is objective and tamper-resistant, making it some of the most powerful evidence in trucking cases.

2. Driver Qualification and Employment Records

We subpoena the trucking company’s complete Driver Qualification File (DQF) for the driver involved in your accident. This file should contain:

• Employment application and background check
• Driving record from state licensing authorities
• Previous employer verification
• Medical certification
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training records

Missing or incomplete files can prove negligent hiring practices.

3. Maintenance and Inspection Records

Trucking companies must maintain comprehensive records of vehicle maintenance and inspections. We obtain:

• Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
• Annual inspection records
• Maintenance work orders
• Parts purchase records
• Out-of-service orders

These records can prove that the company knew about safety issues but failed to address them.

4. Hours of Service Records

ELD data provides objective evidence of driver compliance with federal hours of service regulations. We analyze:

• Driving hours before the accident
• Break compliance
• Weekly driving limits
• Any falsification of records

Hours of service violations demonstrate fatigue-related negligence.

5. Dispatch and Communication Records

We obtain all dispatch records, including:

• Trip assignments
• Delivery schedules
• Communication between driver and dispatcher
• Any pressure to meet unrealistic deadlines

These records can prove that the company pressured the driver to violate safety regulations.

6. Cargo Documentation

For cargo-related accidents, we examine:

• Bills of lading
• Loading diagrams
• Securement equipment used
• Weight distribution records
• Cargo manifest

This documentation can prove negligence in loading procedures.

7. Accident Reconstruction

We work with expert accident reconstructionists who use:

• Scene measurements and photographs
• Vehicle damage analysis
• Electronic data interpretation
• Physics-based modeling

This analysis helps determine exactly what happened and who was at fault.

8. Witness Statements

We interview:

• Eyewitnesses to the accident
• Other drivers who may have seen the truck’s behavior before the crash
• First responders
• Medical personnel who treated you at the scene

Witness testimony can corroborate your version of events.

9. Expert Testimony

We retain qualified experts to support your case:

• Medical Experts – To explain your injuries and treatment needs
• Vocational Experts – To assess your ability to work
• Life Care Planners – To develop comprehensive care plans for catastrophic injuries
• Economic Experts – To calculate lost earning capacity and future expenses
• Trucking Industry Experts – To explain industry standards and violations

All Parties Who May Be Liable in Your Crockett County Trucking Accident

One of the key differences between trucking accidents and regular car accidents is that multiple parties may share liability. At Attorney911, we investigate all potentially liable parties to maximize your compensation:

1. The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, texting)
• Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Violation of traffic laws

2. The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets and the most responsibility for safety. They may be liable for:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

• The driver was an employee acting within the scope of employment

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent Hiring – Failed to check driver’s background or qualifications
• Negligent Training – Inadequate safety training
• Negligent Supervision – Failed to monitor driver performance
• Negligent Maintenance – Failed to maintain vehicles in safe condition
• Negligent Scheduling – Pressured drivers to violate hours of service regulations

3. The Cargo Owner or Shipper

The company that owns the cargo may be liable for:

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
• Requiring overweight loading
• Pressuring carrier to expedite beyond safe limits

4. The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns

5. The Truck or Trailer Manufacturer

Manufacturers may be liable for:

• Design defects in vehicle systems
• Manufacturing defects in components
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective safety systems (brakes, stability control, etc.)

6. Parts Manufacturers

Companies that manufacture specific parts may be liable for:

• Defective brakes or brake components
• Defective tires causing blowouts
• Defective steering mechanisms
• Defective lighting components

7. Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers may be liable for:

• Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
• Failure to identify critical safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard or wrong parts

8. Freight Brokers

Freight brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

• Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
• Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
• Failure to check carrier CSA scores

9. The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

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

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

10. Government Entities

In limited circumstances, government entities may be liable for:

• 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

Types of Compensation Available in Crockett County Trucking Cases

When you’ve been injured in a trucking accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation:

1. Economic Damages

These are calculable financial losses:

• Medical Expenses – Past, present, and future medical costs related to your injuries
• Lost Wages – Income lost due to your injuries and recovery period
• Lost Earning Capacity – Reduction in your ability to earn income in the future
• Property Damage – Repair or replacement of your vehicle and other damaged property
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses – Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, etc.
• Life Care Costs – Ongoing care needs for catastrophic injuries

2. Non-Economic Damages

These compensate for quality of life impacts:

• Pain and Suffering – Physical pain from your injuries
• Mental Anguish – Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression
• Loss of Enjoyment – Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed
• Disfigurement – Scarring and visible injuries
• Loss of Consortium – Impact on your marriage and family relationships
• Physical Impairment – Reduced physical capabilities

3. Punitive Damages

In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, punitive damages may be available to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. Examples include:

• Knowingly hiring dangerous drivers
• Ignoring safety violations for profit
• Destroying evidence (spoliation)
• Falsifying hours-of-service logs
• Creating a corporate culture that prioritizes profit over safety

The Legal Process for Your Crockett County Trucking Case

1. Free Consultation

When you call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911, we’ll provide a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your legal options.

2. Case Investigation

If we take your case, we’ll immediately begin investigating:

• Send preservation letters to all potentially liable parties
• Obtain police reports and accident scene photos
• Collect medical records and bills
• Interview witnesses
• Retain accident reconstruction experts
• Obtain electronic data from the truck

3. Medical Treatment Coordination

We’ll help you get the medical treatment you need, even if you don’t have health insurance. We work with a network of medical providers who will treat you on a lien basis, meaning they’ll wait for payment until your case is resolved.

4. Demand Letter

Once we have a complete understanding of your injuries and damages, we’ll send a comprehensive demand letter to the trucking company’s insurance carrier. This letter will detail:

• How the accident occurred
• The negligence of the truck driver and company
• Your injuries and treatment
• Your economic damages
• Your non-economic damages
• Our demand for settlement

5. Negotiation

We’ll negotiate aggressively with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement. Our experience with trucking cases gives us insight into what constitutes a fair offer.

6. Litigation (If Necessary)

If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to court. We’ll file a lawsuit and engage in the discovery process, which may include:

• Written interrogatories
• Document requests
• Depositions of witnesses and company representatives
• Expert witness testimony

7. Trial or Settlement

While most cases settle before trial, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation gives us leverage in settlement negotiations. If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’ll present your case to a jury.

Common Trucking Accident Scenarios in Crockett County

1. Jackknife Accidents

What Happens:
A jackknife occurs when the trailer and cab skid in opposite directions, with the trailer folding at an angle similar to a pocket knife. The trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often sweeping across multiple lanes of traffic.

Crockett County Factors:

• Sudden weather changes on US-190 and US-377
• Improper braking on downhill grades
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers on rural roads
• Cargo shifts from improper securement

Common Injuries:

• Multi-vehicle pileups
• Crushing injuries from the swinging trailer
• Catastrophic injuries from high-speed impacts

2. Rollover Accidents

What Happens:
A rollover occurs when an 18-wheeler tips onto its side or roof. Due to the truck’s high center of gravity and massive weight, rollovers are among the most catastrophic trucking accidents.

Crockett County Factors:

• Speeding on curves along US-190
• Improperly secured oilfield equipment
• Liquid cargo “slosh” from tanker trucks
• Overcorrection after tire blowouts
• Wind gusts affecting high-profile loads

Common Injuries:

• Crushing injuries from vehicles beneath the trailer
• Cargo spills creating additional hazards
• Fuel fires causing severe burns
• Traumatic brain injuries from impact

3. Underride Collisions

What Happens:
An underride collision occurs when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of an 18-wheeler and slides underneath the trailer. The trailer height often causes the smaller vehicle’s passenger compartment to be sheared off at windshield level.

Crockett County Factors:

• Inadequate or missing underride guards
• Poor visibility on rural roads
• Sudden stops by trucks entering highways
• Wide turns at intersections
• Inadequate lighting on rural roads

Common Injuries:

• Decapitation
• Severe head and neck trauma
• Wrongful death
• Catastrophic injuries to all vehicle occupants

4. Rear-End Collisions

What Happens:
A rear-end collision occurs when an 18-wheeler strikes the back of another vehicle or when a vehicle strikes the back of a truck. Due to the truck’s massive weight and longer stopping distances, these accidents cause devastating injuries.

Crockett County Factors:

• Following too closely on US-190
• Driver distraction from long highway stretches
• Driver fatigue from long hauls
• Brake failures from poor maintenance
• Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns

Common Injuries:

• Whiplash and spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Crushing injuries when vehicles are pushed into other objects

5. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

What Happens:
Wide turn accidents occur when an 18-wheeler swings wide (often to the left) before making a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing or striking the vehicle that entered the gap.

Crockett County Factors:

• Tight intersections in Ozona and other communities
• Drivers unfamiliar with truck turning requirements
• Inadequate signage warning of truck turning paths
• Poorly designed intersections

Common Injuries:

• Crushing injuries from being caught between the truck and curb
• Pedestrian and cyclist fatalities
• Sideswipe injuries from trailer contact

6. Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)

What Happens:
Blind spot accidents occur when an 18-wheeler changes lanes or maneuvers without seeing a vehicle in one of its four major blind spots (No-Zones).

Crockett County Factors:

• Long stretches of highway where vehicles linger in blind spots
• Improperly adjusted mirrors
• Driver distraction
• Failure to use turn signals

Common Injuries:

• Sideswipe injuries causing vehicle loss of control
• Rollover of passenger vehicles
• Crushing injuries from trailer contact
• Ejection from vehicles

7. Tire Blowout Accidents

What Happens:
Tire blowout accidents occur when one or more tires on an 18-wheeler suddenly fail, causing the driver to lose control. Debris from the blown tire can also strike other vehicles.

Crockett County Factors:

• Underinflated tires from long hauls
• Overloaded vehicles exceeding tire capacity
• Worn or aging tires not replaced
• Heat buildup on long highway stretches
• Road debris punctures from rural roads

Common Injuries:

• Resulting jackknife or rollover accidents
• Vehicles struck by tire debris
• Loss of control accidents from sudden blowouts
• Multi-vehicle pileups

8. Brake Failure Accidents

What Happens:
Brake failure accidents occur when an 18-wheeler’s braking system fails or underperforms, preventing the driver from stopping in time to avoid a collision.

Crockett County Factors:

• Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
• Improper brake adjustment
• Air brake system leaks
• Overheated brakes on downhill grades
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Deferred maintenance to save costs

Common Injuries:

• Severe rear-end collision injuries
• Multi-vehicle pileups
• High-speed impact injuries
• Crushing injuries from runaway trucks

9. Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents

What Happens:
Cargo spill and shift accidents occur when improperly secured cargo falls from a truck, shifts during transport causing instability, or spills onto the roadway.

Crockett County Factors:

• Improperly secured oilfield equipment
• Livestock transport with inadequate containment
• Agricultural products not properly secured
• Liquid cargo “slosh” in tanker trucks
• Failure to re-inspect cargo during long trips

Common Injuries:

• Vehicles struck by falling cargo
• Chain-reaction accidents from spilled loads
• Hazmat exposure injuries
• Rollover injuries when cargo shifts
• Multi-vehicle pileups from sudden debris

What To Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Crockett County

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Crockett County, take these steps to protect your health and your legal rights:

1. Call 911 and Report the Accident

• Request police and emergency medical services
• Report all injuries, even if they seem minor
• Request a police report (critical for your case)

2. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

• Go to the emergency room or urgent care
• Follow all medical advice and treatment plans
• Document all injuries and symptoms
• Keep all medical records and bills

3. Document the Scene

• Take photos of all vehicles involved
• Photograph the accident scene from multiple angles
• Document road conditions, weather, and any hazards
• Take pictures of your injuries
• Get contact information from witnesses

4. Collect Information from the Truck Driver

• Driver’s name and contact information
• Commercial driver’s license (CDL) number
• Trucking company name and contact information
• Insurance information
• Truck and trailer license plate numbers
• DOT number from the truck door

5. Do NOT Give Statements to Insurance Companies

• Do not give recorded statements to any insurance adjuster
• Do not sign any documents without consulting an attorney
• Refer all insurance inquiries to your lawyer

6. Call Attorney911 Immediately

• We’ll send preservation letters to protect critical evidence
• We’ll begin investigating your case right away
• We’ll handle all communication with insurance companies
• We’ll help you get the medical treatment you need

Why Time Is Critical in Your Crockett County Trucking Case

Evidence in trucking accident cases disappears quickly. Here’s what can happen if you delay:

• Black Box Data – Can be overwritten in as little as 30 days
• ELD Data – May be retained for 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 time windows

At Attorney911, we act immediately to preserve this critical evidence. When you call us, we’ll send formal preservation letters within 24-48 hours, putting the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will have serious legal consequences.

Client Testimonials: Real Stories from Crockett County and Beyond

At Attorney911, we’re proud of the results we’ve achieved for our clients. Here’s what some of them have to say:

“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

“Ralph reached out personally to me. That meant a lot.”
— Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client

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

“I was rear-ended and the team got right to work… I also got a very nice settlement.”
— MONGO SLADE, Attorney911 Client

“One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
— Donald Wilcox, Attorney911 Client

“I lost everything… my car was at a total loss, and because of Attorney Manginello and my case worker Leonor, 1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.”
— Kiimarii Yup, Attorney911 Client

“They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

“Ralph took his bogus case and had it dismissed within a WEEK! I have been trying for over 2 years.”
— Beth Bonds, Attorney911 Client

“Ralph Manginello is indeed the best attorney I ever had. He cares greatly about his results.”
— AMAZIAH A.T., Attorney911 Client

“Mr. Maginello and his firm are first class. Will fight tooth and nail for you.”
— Ernest Cano, Attorney911 Client

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockett County Trucking Accidents

Q: How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Crockett County?

A: In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait this long to take action. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

Q: How much is my Crockett County trucking accident case worth?

A: The value of your case depends on many factors, including:

• The severity of your injuries
• Your medical expenses (past and future)
• Your lost income and earning capacity
• Your pain and suffering
• The degree of the trucking company’s negligence
• The insurance coverage available

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits than typical car drivers ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), which allows for larger recoveries. Our firm has recovered millions for trucking accident victims.

Q: What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

A: Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. This means:

• If you were less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages
• Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you were 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages

Even if you believe you may have been partially at fault, you should consult with an attorney. The trucking company will likely try to exaggerate your fault to reduce their liability.

Q: Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

A: No. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not for you. Their job is to minimize the company’s liability and pay you as little as possible. Anything you say to an adjuster can be used against you to reduce your claim.

At Attorney911, we handle all communication with insurance companies. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how adjusters are trained to protect the company’s interests.

Q: What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

A: Even if the driver was an independent contractor, both the driver and the trucking company may still be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from all responsible parties.

Q: How long will my trucking accident case take to resolve?

A: The timeline varies depending on the complexity of your case:

• 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. Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial to create leverage in negotiations.

Q: Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire Attorney911?

A: No. We work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we recover compensation for you. Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict, not from your pocket.

Q: What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

A: Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, their insurance policy should still cover your claim. We identify all available insurance coverage to maximize your recovery.

Q: Can I still recover compensation if I didn’t go to the hospital immediately after the accident?

A: Yes, but it’s much more difficult. Insurance companies use delays in treatment to argue that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident or that they’re not as serious as you claim. It’s critical to seek medical attention immediately after an accident, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured.

Q: What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?

A: Quick settlement offers are almost always lowball offers designed to pay you far less than your case is worth. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

Q: Can I sue for PTSD after a trucking accident?

A: Yes. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a recognized injury that can result from traumatic accidents. You may be entitled to compensation for your emotional trauma, including:

• Flashbacks and nightmares
• Anxiety and depression
• Insomnia
• Fear of driving
• Emotional distress

Q: What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident?

A: If your loved one was killed in a trucking accident, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim. In Texas, wrongful death claims can be brought by:

• Surviving spouse
• Children (minor and adult)
• Parents (if there is no spouse or children)

Damages may include:

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

Contact Attorney911 Today for Your Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Crockett County, don’t wait to get the help you need. Every hour that passes, critical evidence is disappearing. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect their interests – you need someone on your side.

At Attorney911, we offer:

• Free, no-obligation consultations
• 24/7 availability – We answer trucking accident calls immediately
• Bilingual services – Hablamos Español
• No upfront fees – You pay nothing unless we win
• Aggressive representation – We fight for every dollar you deserve

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) or visit our website at https://attorney911.com to schedule your free consultation. We have offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, and we’re ready to fight for you.

Remember: The trucking company is hoping you don’t know your rights. Don’t let them get away with it. Call Attorney911 now and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.