18-Wheeler Accidents in Dallam County: Your Complete Guide to Justice and Compensation
When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Your Life in an Instant
The impact was catastrophic. One moment, you’re driving along US-385 or US-87 in Dallam County, thinking about your day. The next, an 80,000-pound 18-wheeler is jackknifing across three lanes, or its trailer is swinging wide into your path. The physics don’t lie – a fully loaded truck is 20-25 times heavier than your car. When these giants collide with passenger vehicles, the results are often devastating: traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, or worse.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident anywhere in Dallam County – from Texline to Dalhart, along the busy US-385 corridor, or on the rural highways that connect our communities – you need more than just a lawyer. You need a legal team that understands the unique challenges of trucking cases in our part of Texas.
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across the Texas Panhandle 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 Dallam County’s trucking corridors, the local courts, and how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.
“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client
Why Dallam County Trucking Accidents Are Different
Dallam County presents unique challenges for trucking accident victims. Our location at the crossroads of major freight routes creates specific risks:
- US-385 Corridor: This north-south route carries significant oilfield equipment and agricultural products, creating heavy truck traffic through Texline and Dalhart
- US-87 and US-54: East-west routes that connect to major interstates, bringing long-haul truckers through our county
- Oilfield Traffic: The energy industry generates specialized trucking needs, including oversize loads and hazardous materials
- Agricultural Freight: Our farming community creates seasonal peaks in grain, livestock, and equipment transport
- Border Proximity: Being near the Oklahoma border means dealing with different state regulations and enforcement patterns
- Weather Conditions: Our high winds, sudden storms, and occasional ice can create hazardous driving conditions that truckers must account for
Trucking companies that operate in Dallam County know these challenges – and they have a legal obligation to train their drivers and maintain their equipment accordingly. When they fail in that duty, we hold them accountable.
The Trucking Company’s Playbook – And How We Counter It
Within hours of your accident, the trucking company’s rapid-response team will be on the scene. Their mission? To protect their interests, not yours. They’ll:
- Send investigators to document the scene in their favor
- Download black box data – which can be overwritten in as little as 30 days
- Interview witnesses to get statements that help their case
- Contact you with a quick settlement offer that’s far less than you deserve
- Destroy evidence if they think they can get away with it
That’s why you need to call Attorney911 immediately. We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve all evidence, including:
- ECM/Black Box data showing speed, braking, and engine performance
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records proving hours of service violations
- Driver Qualification Files revealing negligent hiring practices
- Maintenance records showing deferred repairs
- Cell phone records proving distracted driving
- Dashcam footage capturing the accident
CRITICAL TIMELINE: Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. ELD records may be retained for only 6 months. Dashcam footage often gets deleted within 7-14 days. Every hour counts.
The Most Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Dallam County
Our firm has handled hundreds of trucking cases across the Texas Panhandle. These are the most common causes we see in Dallam County:
1. Driver Fatigue: The Silent Killer on Our Highways
Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes nationwide. In Dallam County, the long stretches of highway and pressure to meet delivery deadlines create perfect conditions for fatigue-related accidents.
FMCSA Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395):
- Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
- Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
- 30-minute break required after 8 hours driving
- 60/70 hour weekly limits
How We Prove Fatigue:
- ELD data showing driving beyond legal limits
- Dispatch records revealing unrealistic schedules
- Cell phone records showing late-night communications
- Truck stop and fuel receipts
- Witness statements about driver behavior
Dallam County-Specific Factors:
- Long-haul drivers crossing multiple time zones
- Oilfield truckers working extended shifts
- Agricultural season peaks creating fatigue
- Our high winds and weather conditions requiring extra alertness
2. Distracted Driving: The Modern Menace
Distracted driving is a growing problem in trucking accidents. In Dallam County, the long stretches of highway can lead to boredom and distraction.
Common Distractions:
- Cell phone use (texting, talking, GPS)
- Dispatch communications via Qualcomm or other systems
- Eating and drinking while driving
- Adjusting in-cab electronics
- External distractions (scenery, billboards)
FMCSA Violations:
- 49 CFR § 392.82 – Prohibition on hand-held mobile phone use
- 49 CFR § 392.80 – Prohibition on texting while driving
How We Prove Distraction:
- Cell phone records showing usage at time of crash
- Qualcomm or dispatch system logs
- Witness statements
- Video footage from dashcams or nearby businesses
- ECM data showing erratic driving patterns
3. Improper Maintenance: When Trucks Become Deadly Weapons
Brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical failures cause thousands of truck accidents each year. In Dallam County, our weather conditions and road surfaces put extra stress on truck components.
Common Maintenance Failures:
- Worn brake pads or improper brake adjustment
- Bald or underinflated tires
- Faulty steering components
- Defective lighting
- Suspension system failures
- Coupling device failures
FMCSA Violations:
- 49 CFR § 396.3 – Systematic inspection and maintenance
- 49 CFR § 393.40-55 – Brake system requirements
- 49 CFR § 393.75 – Tire requirements
- 49 CFR § 396.13 – Pre-trip inspection requirements
Dallam County-Specific Factors:
- Our high winds affecting high-profile trailers
- Temperature extremes stressing components
- Rough road surfaces on rural routes
- Long distances between service facilities
4. Cargo Securement Failures: When Loads Become Projectiles
Improperly secured cargo is a major hazard on our highways. In Dallam County, we see specific cargo-related risks:
Common Securement Failures:
- Agricultural products shifting in transit
- Oilfield equipment not properly secured
- Livestock trailers with inadequate containment
- Flatbed loads not properly tied down
- Liquid cargo slosh causing instability
FMCSA Violations (49 CFR § 393.100-136):
- Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured
- Must withstand 0.8g deceleration forward, 0.5g rearward, 0.5g lateral
- Aggregate working load limit must be at least 50% of cargo weight
- Specific requirements for different cargo types
Dallam County-Specific Factors:
- Grain trucks during harvest season
- Livestock transport throughout the year
- Oilfield equipment hauling
- Agricultural machinery movement
- Our high winds affecting securement
5. Speeding and Reckless Driving: The Deadly Combination
Speeding is a factor in nearly one-third of all fatal crashes. For 18-wheelers, the dangers are magnified due to their size and stopping distance.
Why Speeding is Especially Dangerous for Trucks:
- Increased stopping distance (525 feet at 65 mph)
- Greater risk of rollover on curves
- Reduced reaction time
- Increased severity of impact
FMCSA Violations:
- 49 CFR § 392.6 – Prohibition on speeding for conditions
- 49 CFR § 392.11 – Following too closely
How We Prove Speeding:
- ECM data showing speed at time of crash
- Skid mark analysis
- Witness statements
- Dashcam footage
- GPS data
Dallam County-Specific Factors:
- Long straight stretches of highway
- Variable speed limits on different routes
- Weather conditions requiring speed adjustment
- Pressure to meet delivery deadlines
The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Dallam County Trucking Accidents
The physics of trucking accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. In Dallam County, we’ve represented clients with:
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): The Invisible Epidemic
TBI occurs when the brain is violently shaken inside the skull. In trucking accidents, this often happens when:
- Your head strikes the steering wheel, dashboard, or window
- Your vehicle is violently jolted by the impact
- You’re ejected from the vehicle
- Debris penetrates your skull
TBI Severity Levels:
| Level | Symptoms | Prognosis |
|---|---|---|
| Mild (Concussion) | Brief loss of consciousness, confusion, headache, dizziness | Usually recovers, but may have lasting effects |
| Moderate | Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits | Significant recovery possible with rehabilitation |
| Severe | Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment | Lifelong disability, may require 24/7 care |
Lifetime Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity
Spinal Cord Injury: Life-Altering Damage
Spinal cord injuries often result in permanent paralysis. The level of injury determines the extent of paralysis:
| Level | Location | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| C1-C4 | Neck | Quadriplegia, may require ventilator |
| C5-C8 | Lower neck | Quadriplegia with some arm function |
| T1-T12 | Upper back | Paraplegia, full arm function |
| L1-L5 | Lower back | Paraplegia with some leg function |
| S1-S5 | Tailbone | Some loss of function in hips/legs |
Lifetime Costs:
- Paraplegia: $1.1 million to $2.5 million
- Quadriplegia: $3.5 million to $5 million
Amputations: When Limbs Are Lost in an Instant
Amputations occur when:
- Limbs are severed in the crash
- Crush injuries require surgical amputation
- Burns are so severe that amputation is necessary
- Infections develop from open wounds
Ongoing Needs:
- Initial surgery and hospitalization
- Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ each)
- Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Occupational therapy
- Psychological counseling
Severe Burns: The Agony of Fire
Burns occur in trucking accidents when:
- Fuel tanks rupture and ignite
- Hazardous materials spill and catch fire
- Electrical systems short circuit
- Friction from the crash generates heat
Burn Classification:
| Degree | Depth | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| First | Epidermis only | Heals without scarring |
| Second | Epidermis and dermis | May scar, may need grafting |
| Third | Full thickness | Requires skin grafts, permanent scarring |
| Fourth | Through skin to muscle/bone | Multiple surgeries, may require amputation |
Internal Organ Damage: The Hidden Killer
Internal injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening:
- Liver lacerations
- Spleen damage requiring removal
- Kidney damage
- Lung contusions or pneumothorax
- Internal bleeding
- Bowel and intestinal damage
Why Dangerous:
- May not show immediate symptoms
- Internal bleeding can be fatal
- Requires emergency surgery
- Organ removal affects long-term health
Wrongful Death: When a Family Loses Everything
When a trucking accident kills a loved one, Texas law allows surviving family members to pursue wrongful death claims. In Dallam County, we’ve represented families who’ve lost:
- Parents in fatal crashes on US-385
- Children struck by wide-turning trucks
- Spouses killed in rear-end collisions
- Young adults in underride accidents
Damages Available:
- Lost future income and benefits
- Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
- Mental anguish and emotional suffering
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses incurred before death
- Pain and suffering experienced by the decedent before death
- Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence
Who’s Really Responsible? The Web of Liability in Trucking Cases
In car accidents, usually only one driver is at fault. In trucking accidents, MULTIPLE parties can be liable. In Dallam County cases, we’ve held accountable:
1. The Truck Driver
The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable for their negligent conduct, including:
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Distracted driving (cell phone, dispatch communications)
- 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.
Vicarious Liability:
Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment.
Direct Negligence:
- Negligent Hiring: Failed to check driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
- Negligent Training: Inadequate training on safety, cargo securement, hours of service
- Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance, ELD compliance
- Negligent Maintenance: Failed to maintain vehicle in safe condition
- Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations
OUR ADVANTAGE: Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for a national defense firm. He knows exactly how trucking companies try to minimize claims – and now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.
3. Cargo Owner / Shipper
The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable for:
- Providing improper loading instructions
- Failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
- Requiring overweight loading
- Pressuring carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
- Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics
4. Cargo Loading Company
Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo onto trucks may be liable for:
- Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
- Unbalanced load distribution
- Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
- Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
- Not training loaders on securement requirements
5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturer
The company that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for:
- Design defects (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement)
- Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
- Failure to warn of known dangers
- Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)
6. Parts Manufacturer
Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for:
- Defective brakes or brake components
- Defective tires causing blowouts
- Defective steering mechanisms
- Defective lighting components
- Defective coupling devices
7. Maintenance Company
Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets 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
- Returning vehicles to service with known defects
8. Freight Broker
Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for:
- Negligent selection of carrier with poor safety record
- Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
- Failure to check carrier CSA scores
- Selecting cheapest carrier despite safety concerns
9. 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 Entity
Federal, state, or local government may be liable in limited circumstances for:
- Dangerous road design that contributed to accident
- Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
- Inadequate signage for known hazards
- Failure to install safety barriers
- Improper work zone setup
Special Considerations in Texas:
- Sovereign immunity limits government liability
- Strict notice requirements and short deadlines
- Must prove actual notice of dangerous condition in many cases
The Evidence That Wins Trucking Cases in Dallam County
In trucking cases, evidence disappears FAST. We’ve seen trucking companies:
- Overwrite black box data within 30 days
- Delete dashcam footage within 7-14 days
- “Lose” maintenance records
- Destroy driver qualification files
- Repair vehicles before they can be inspected
That’s why we act IMMEDIATELY to preserve evidence.
Electronic Evidence: The Digital Smoking Gun
| Evidence Type | What It Shows | Preservation Window |
|---|---|---|
| ECM/Black Box | Speed, braking, throttle, RPM, fault codes | 30 days (can be overwritten) |
| ELD (Electronic Logging Device) | Driver hours, duty status, GPS location | 6 months (FMCSA requirement) |
| GPS/Telematics | Real-time location, speed, route | Varies by carrier |
| Cell Phone Records | Driver’s phone usage before accident | Requires subpoena |
| Dashcam Footage | Video of road ahead, sometimes cab interior | Often overwritten within days |
| Dispatch Records | Communications about routes, deadlines | Carrier-controlled |
Physical Evidence: The Tangible Proof
- The truck and trailer themselves
- Failed or damaged components
- Cargo and securement devices
- Tire remnants (if blowout involved)
- Skid marks and debris patterns
- Road conditions and signage
Documentary Evidence: The Paper Trail
| Document Type | What It Shows |
|---|---|
| Driver Qualification File | Hiring negligence, training gaps |
| Maintenance Records | Deferred repairs, known defects |
| Inspection Reports | Pre-existing violations |
| Drug/Alcohol Tests | Impairment at time of accident |
| Hours of Service Records | Fatigue violations |
| Cargo Manifest | Securement issues, weight violations |
| Dispatch Logs | Schedule pressure, unrealistic deadlines |
| Training Records | Inadequate preparation |
| Safety Policies | Company culture of safety (or lack thereof) |
Witness Evidence: The Human Perspective
- Driver statements
- Passenger statements
- Eyewitness accounts
- First responder observations
- Expert witness testimony
How We Build Your Case: The Attorney911 Method
Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)
- Accept your case and send preservation letters same day
- Deploy accident reconstruction expert to scene if needed
- Obtain police crash report
- Photograph your injuries with medical documentation
- Photograph all vehicles before they are repaired or scrapped
- Identify all potentially liable parties
Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)
- Subpoena ELD/black box data downloads
- Request driver’s paper log books (backup documentation)
- Obtain complete Driver Qualification File from carrier
- Request all truck maintenance and inspection records
- Obtain carrier’s CSA safety scores and inspection history
- Order driver’s complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
- Subpoena driver’s cell phone records
- Obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules
Phase 3: Expert Analysis
- Accident reconstruction specialist creates crash analysis
- Medical experts establish causation and future care needs
- Vocational experts calculate lost earning capacity
- Economic experts determine present value of all damages
- Life care planners develop comprehensive care plans
- FMCSA regulation experts identify all violations
Phase 4: Litigation Strategy
- File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires (2 years in Texas)
- Pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
- Depose truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, maintenance personnel
- Build case for trial while negotiating settlement from position of strength
- Prepare every case as if going to trial (this creates leverage in negotiations)
The Compensation You Deserve After a Dallam County Trucking Accident
Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance far exceeding typical auto policies:
| Cargo Type | Minimum Coverage |
|---|---|
| Non-Hazardous Freight | $750,000 |
| Oil/Petroleum | $1,000,000 |
| Large Equipment | $1,000,000 |
| Hazardous Materials | $5,000,000 |
| Passengers (16+) | $5,000,000 |
| Passengers (15 or fewer) | $1,500,000 |
Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more in coverage. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.
Types of Damages Recoverable
Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):
- Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
- Lost wages and income
- Lost earning capacity
- Property damage
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Life care costs
Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life):
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement
- Loss of consortium
- Physical impairment
Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence):
Available when the trucking company or driver acted with:
- Gross negligence
- Willful misconduct
- Conscious indifference to safety
- Fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence)
What Your Case Is Worth: Dallam County Trucking Accident Settlements
Case values depend on many factors specific to your situation. In Dallam County, we consider:
- Severity of your injuries
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Degree of defendant’s negligence
- Insurance coverage available
- Impact on your quality of life
- Whether punitive damages may apply
Typical Settlement Ranges in Texas Trucking Cases:
| Injury Type | Settlement Range |
|---|---|
| Soft Tissue Injuries | $15,000 – $60,000 |
| Herniated Disc (Non-Surgical) | $50,000 – $200,000 |
| Herniated Disc (With Surgery) | $346,000 – $1,205,000 |
| Traumatic Brain Injury (Mod-Severe) | $1,548,000 – $9,838,000+ |
| Amputation | $1,945,000 – $8,630,000 |
| Wrongful Death (Trucking) | $1,910,000 – $9,520,000+ |
| Paraplegia | $4,770,000 – $25,880,000+ |
| Quadriplegia | $10,000,000+ |
Recent Major Trucking Verdicts That Show What’s Possible:
| Amount | Year | Location | Case Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| $462 Million | 2024 | St. Louis, MO | Underride accident causing two fatalities |
| $160 Million | 2024 | Alabama | Rollover accident leaving driver quadriplegic |
| $141.5 Million | 2024 | Florida | Defunct carrier crash causing severe injuries |
| $730 Million | 2021 | Texas | Oversize load accident killing 73-year-old woman |
| $150 Million | 2022 | Texas | Two children killed in I-30 crash |
“We’ve seen what trucking companies do after an accident. And we know how to stop them.”
— Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner
The Insurance Company’s Playbook – And How We Counter It
Trucking companies and their insurers have a well-practiced playbook for minimizing claims. Our former insurance defense attorney knows every tactic they’ll use against you.
Common Insurance Tactics:
| Tactic | How They Use It | How We Counter It |
|---|---|---|
| Quick Lowball Settlement Offers | Offer fast money before you understand your injuries | Never accept early offers; calculate full future damages first |
| Denying or Minimizing Injuries | Claim injuries are pre-existing or exaggerated | Obtain comprehensive medical documentation and expert testimony |
| Blaming the Victim | Claim you were partially or fully at fault | Investigate fully; gather evidence disproving fault allegations |
| Delaying the Claims Process | Drag out negotiations hoping you’ll settle for less | File lawsuit to force discovery; set depositions |
| Using Recorded Statements Against You | Get you to say things that hurt your case | Advise clients NEVER give statements without attorney present |
| “Pre-Existing Condition” Defense | Claim your injuries existed before the accident | Apply Texas “Eggshell Skull” doctrine (take plaintiff as found) |
| “Gap in Treatment” Attacks | Claim you weren’t really injured because you missed appointments | Document all treatment; explain gaps with medical records |
| Sending Surveillance Investigators | Follow you to disprove injury claims | Advise clients on appropriate conduct; expose unfair surveillance |
| Hiring “Independent” Medical Examiners | Get doctors to minimize your injuries | Counter with client’s treating physicians and independent experts |
| Drowning You in Paperwork | Overwhelm you with requests to force settlement | Aggressive litigation and motion practice to force resolution |
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Dallam County Trucking Case?
1. We’re Trucking Accident Specialists
While many personal injury firms handle car accidents, we specialize in trucking cases. We understand:
- FMCSA regulations inside and out
- How to obtain and interpret black box data
- The unique challenges of trucking litigation
- How to deal with multiple liable parties
- The tactics trucking companies use to avoid responsibility
2. We Have Federal Court Experience
Many trucking cases involve interstate commerce and can be filed in federal court. Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas – giving us access to the federal system when needed.
3. We Have a Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff
Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.
4. We’ve Recovered Millions for Trucking Accident Victims
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
5. We’re Local to Dallam County
We understand:
- The unique trucking corridors in Dallam County
- The local courts and judges
- The specific industries that generate truck traffic (oil, agriculture)
- The weather conditions that affect trucking safety
- The community values that juries consider
6. We Offer Bilingual Services
Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish. We can serve Dallam County’s Hispanic community directly, without interpreters. Hablamos Español.
7. We Work on Contingency – You Pay Nothing Unless We Win
- No upfront fees
- No hourly charges
- No retainer required
- We advance all costs of litigation
- You only pay if we recover money for you
“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client
What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Dallam County
At the Scene (If You’re Able)
- Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
- Seek medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor
- Document the scene – Take photos and video if possible:
- All vehicle damage (inside and out)
- The accident scene, road conditions, skid marks
- Truck and trailer license plates
- DOT number (on truck door)
- Trucking company name and logo
- Your injuries
- Get information from the truck driver:
- Name and contact information
- CDL number
- Insurance information
- Trucking company name and contact
- Collect witness information – Names and phone numbers
- Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
- Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911
In the Days After the Accident
- Follow up with medical treatment – Keep all appointments
- Document everything – Keep a journal of your symptoms and how they affect your life
- Save all evidence – Medical records, photos, receipts, correspondence
- Do not post on social media – Insurance companies will use your posts against you
- Do not sign anything from insurance companies without consulting us
- Stay in communication with our office – We’ll guide you through the process
The Legal Process: What to Expect
1. Free Consultation
We’ll evaluate your case, explain your rights, and discuss your options – all at no cost to you.
2. Case Acceptance
If we believe we can help you, we’ll accept your case on a contingency fee basis.
3. Investigation
We’ll immediately begin gathering evidence, including:
- Sending spoliation letters to preserve evidence
- Obtaining black box and ELD data
- Subpoenaing driver qualification files
- Requesting maintenance records
- Interviewing witnesses
- Consulting with accident reconstruction experts
4. Medical Care Facilitation
We’ll help you get the medical treatment you need, even if you don’t have insurance.
5. Demand Letter
We’ll send a comprehensive demand letter to the insurance company, calculating all your damages.
6. Negotiation
We’ll negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement. Most cases settle at this stage.
7. Litigation (If Needed)
If the insurance company won’t offer a fair settlement, we’ll file a lawsuit and take your case to trial.
8. Resolution
Your case will resolve either through settlement or jury verdict.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dallam County Trucking Accidents
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Dallam County?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.
How much is my trucking accident case worth?
Case values vary widely depending on:
- Severity of your injuries
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Degree of defendant’s negligence
- Insurance coverage available
We’ve seen verdicts and settlements ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions of dollars in trucking cases.
Will my case go to trial?
Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation gives us leverage in settlement negotiations. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.
How long will my case take to resolve?
Timelines vary:
- Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
- Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
- Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years
We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.
What if the truck driver says I was at fault?
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. If you were less than 50% at fault, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Our job is to investigate thoroughly and prove what really happened.
What if the trucking company offers me a settlement?
Never accept any settlement without consulting an attorney first. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth. Once you accept a settlement, you give up your right to pursue additional compensation, even if your injuries worsen.
What if I don’t have health insurance?
We can help you get the medical treatment you need through:
- Letters of Protection (LOP) with medical providers
- Health insurance (if available)
- Medicaid or Medicare (if eligible)
- Other funding sources
Can I sue if a loved one was killed in a trucking accident?
Yes. Texas law allows surviving family members to pursue wrongful death claims. You may recover:
- Lost future income and benefits
- Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
- Mental anguish and emotional suffering
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence
What if the trucking company is based in another state?
Trucking companies that operate in Texas are subject to Texas laws and our courts. We handle cases against trucking companies from all over the country.
How do I pay for an attorney?
We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict, not your pocket.
The Dallam County Difference: Why Local Knowledge Matters
Dallam County presents unique challenges for trucking accident victims. Our local knowledge gives us an advantage:
We Know the Trucking Corridors
- US-385: The primary north-south route through Texline and Dalhart, carrying oilfield equipment, agricultural products, and long-haul freight
- US-87 and US-54: East-west routes that connect to major interstates, bringing significant truck traffic through our county
- FM and RM routes: Rural roads that connect agricultural areas to main highways, often used by local trucking operations
- Oilfield access roads: Specialized routes used by energy industry trucks, often with oversize loads
- Weigh stations: Locations where we can obtain critical weight and inspection records
We Understand the Local Industries
- Agriculture: Our farming community creates seasonal peaks in grain, livestock, and equipment transport
- Oil and Gas: The energy industry generates specialized trucking needs, including hazardous materials transport
- Cattle Industry: Livestock transport creates unique risks on our highways
- Wind Energy: Oversize loads for wind turbine components
- Local Businesses: Delivery trucks serving our communities
We Know the Courts and Judges
- Dallam County Courthouse: Where your case would likely be filed
- Local judges: Their preferences, tendencies, and track records
- Jury pool: The values and attitudes of Dallam County residents
- Local rules: Specific procedures that apply in our courts
- Court schedules: Current backlogs and timelines
We Understand the Weather Challenges
- High winds: A constant factor that affects high-profile trailers
- Sudden storms: Can create hazardous driving conditions quickly
- Temperature extremes: Stress truck components
- Ice and snow: While rare, can create treacherous conditions
- Dust storms: Reduce visibility suddenly
We Know the Community
- The values that Dallam County residents hold dear
- The importance of agriculture and energy to our economy
- The challenges of rural life and transportation
- The community’s attitude toward safety and responsibility
- The local resources available to accident victims
“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client
Don’t Let the Trucking Company Win
After every major trucking accident in Dallam County, the same scene plays out:
- The trucking company’s rapid-response team arrives within hours
- Their investigators document the scene in their favor
- Their lawyers start building a defense
- Their insurance adjuster contacts you with a lowball offer
- They hope you don’t know your rights
Don’t let them get away with it. You have rights, and you have options. But you need to act quickly.
Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.
We’ll:
- Send preservation letters to protect critical evidence
- Begin our investigation immediately
- Deal with the insurance companies so you don’t have to
- Help you get the medical treatment you need
- Fight for the maximum compensation you deserve
Remember: Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted in 7-14 days. Every hour counts.
“When an 18-wheeler changes your family’s life forever, y’all need a lawyer who treats you like family.”
— Ralph Manginello
Our Promise to You
- We’ll treat you like family – You’re not just a case number to us
- We’ll fight for every dime you deserve – We don’t settle for less
- We’ll handle everything – So you can focus on healing
- We’ll communicate openly – You’ll always know what’s happening with your case
- We’ll be available 24/7 – Because accidents don’t happen on a schedule
- We’ll work on contingency – You pay nothing unless we win
Contact Attorney911 Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident anywhere in Dallam County – from Texline to Dalhart, on US-385, US-87, or any of our rural routes – call us now.
Toll-Free: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: https://attorney911.com
Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.
Free consultation. No fee unless we win. Available 24/7.
“The trucking company is hoping you don’t know your rights. Let’s change that.”
— Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner
Your fight starts with one call: 1-888-ATTY-911.