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 moment you see that semi-truck crossing into your lane on US-385 or jackknifing across US-87 in Dallam County, everything changes. One second you’re driving to work in Dalhart or heading home from a football game at Dalhart High School. The next, you’re fighting for your life against 80,000 pounds of steel and cargo.

We understand what you’re going through. As Dallam County’s trusted trucking accident attorneys, we’ve seen how these crashes devastate families across the Texas Panhandle. The physical pain is just the beginning. The medical bills pile up. The insurance companies call with lowball offers. The trucking company’s lawyers start building their defense before the ambulance even arrives.

This guide explains your rights and our proven process for holding trucking companies accountable in Dallam County. We’ll show you how we’ve recovered millions for families just like yours, and how we can fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in Dallam County Are Different

Dallam County’s trucking corridors present unique dangers:

• US-385: The primary north-south route carrying agricultural products from the Panhandle to Colorado and beyond
• US-87: Connects Amarillo to New Mexico, handling heavy freight traffic
• US-54: Serves as a key east-west corridor through Dalhart
• SH-102: Local route with frequent truck traffic serving agricultural operations
• SH-87: Connects to major interstates, handling cross-country freight

These highways see a mix of long-haul trucks, local agricultural haulers, and oilfield equipment transporters. The wide-open spaces of the Texas Panhandle can lull drivers into complacency, while sudden weather changes create hazardous conditions.

The Hard Truth About Trucking Accidents in Dallam County

Every year, thousands of families face the aftermath of catastrophic truck crashes. In Dallam County, we see:

• Jackknife accidents on icy roads during winter storms
• Rollover crashes when trucks take curves too fast on rural highways
• Underride collisions where passenger vehicles slide under trailers
• Fatigue-related crashes from drivers pushing HOS limits
• Brake failures on long descents into Colorado
• Cargo spills from improperly secured agricultural loads

The statistics are sobering:

• Over 5,100 people die in truck crashes annually in the United States
• 76% of those killed are in the smaller vehicle
• Truck crashes cause 125,000+ injuries every year
• In Texas, truck crashes account for 1 in 8 traffic fatalities

When these accidents happen in Dallam County, the consequences are often catastrophic. The nearest Level II trauma center is in Amarillo – nearly 100 miles away. Local hospitals like Coon Memorial Hospital in Dalhart provide excellent emergency care, but severe injuries often require transfer to larger facilities.

The 10 Most Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Dallam County

1. Driver Fatigue: The Silent Killer on Panhandle Highways

Fatigue is the #1 cause of trucking accidents nationwide, and Dallam County’s long, straight highways make it particularly dangerous here. Federal regulations limit drivers to:

• 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-hour on-duty window
• 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
• 60/70-hour weekly limits

Yet we regularly see violations in Dallam County cases:

• Drivers falsifying logbooks to hide HOS violations
• Companies pressuring drivers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules
• Drivers working second jobs during their “off-duty” time
• Sleep apnea and other medical conditions going undiagnosed

“We had a case where a driver fell asleep on US-385 near the Oklahoma border after being on duty for 20 consecutive hours. His truck crossed the center line and struck a family’s SUV head-on. The father was killed, and the children suffered life-altering injuries. The ELD data proved the HOS violations – that’s how we secured a multi-million dollar settlement for the family.”

2. Distracted Driving: More Than Just Cell Phones

While cell phone use gets most of the attention, distracted driving in trucks takes many forms:

• Dispatch communications: Constant messages from dispatchers
• GPS devices: Programming routes while driving
• Paperwork: Logging hours or delivery documents
• In-cab electronics: Entertainment systems, CB radios
• Eating/drinking: Meals on the go to save time
• External distractions: Looking at accidents, scenery, or billboards

The FMCSA prohibits texting and hand-held phone use, but enforcement is difficult on rural highways. We’ve seen cases where drivers were texting about delivery times when they caused catastrophic crashes on US-87.

3. Speeding and Reckless Driving

The vast distances in Dallam County can make speeding tempting, but the consequences are severe:

• Stopping distance: An 18-wheeler at 65 mph needs 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields
• Rollover risk: Higher speeds increase rollover risk on curves
• Blowout risk: Speeding causes tires to overheat and fail
• Underride risk: Higher speeds make underride collisions more likely

We regularly see speeding violations in our Dallam County cases, especially on the long straightaways of US-385 and US-87.

4. Improper Maintenance and Brake Failures

Brake problems cause 29% of truck crashes. In Dallam County, we commonly see:

• Worn brake pads/shoes: Not replaced when needed
• Improper brake adjustment: Too loose to stop effectively
• Air brake system leaks: Reducing braking power
• Overheated brakes: On long descents into Colorado
• Contaminated brake fluid: Reducing effectiveness

The FMCSA requires systematic inspection and maintenance, but many companies cut corners to save money. We’ve seen cases where brake failures on US-87 caused multi-vehicle pileups.

5. Cargo Securement Failures

Improperly secured cargo creates multiple hazards:

• Shifting loads: Can cause rollovers or loss of control
• Falling cargo: Can strike other vehicles or create road hazards
• Overweight loads: Increase stopping distance and stress on brakes
• Hazardous materials spills: Create additional dangers

Dallam County’s agricultural economy means we see frequent cargo securement issues with:

• Hay bales
• Livestock trailers
• Farm equipment
• Grain loads
• Oilfield equipment

The FMCSA has specific securement requirements for each type of cargo, but violations are common.

6. Tire Blowouts

Tire failures cause thousands of crashes annually. In Dallam County, we see:

• Underinflated tires: Cause overheating and failure
• Overloaded vehicles: Exceed tire capacity
• Worn or aging tires: Not replaced when needed
• Road debris: Punctures from objects on rural highways
• Manufacturing defects: Defective tires that fail prematurely

The Panhandle’s extreme temperature swings – from subzero winters to 100°F summers – accelerate tire wear. We’ve handled cases where tire blowouts on US-385 caused catastrophic crashes.

7. Intoxicated or Impaired Driving

Despite strict regulations, we still see:

• Alcohol: Drivers violating the .04 BAC limit
• Illegal drugs: Marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine
• Prescription drugs: Medications that impair driving
• Over-the-counter drugs: Antihistamines, sleep aids

The FMCSA requires pre-employment and random drug testing, but drivers and companies sometimes find ways to circumvent the system. We’ve seen cases where drivers were under the influence on US-87 near Dalhart.

8. Inexperienced or Unqualified Drivers

The trucking industry faces a severe driver shortage, leading some companies to:

• Hire drivers with poor safety records
• Skip proper background checks
• Provide inadequate training
• Allow drivers to operate without proper licenses
• Ignore medical conditions that impair driving

In Dallam County, we’ve seen cases where inexperienced drivers caused crashes on rural highways they weren’t prepared to handle.

9. Poor Weather Conditions

Dallam County’s weather creates unique challenges:

• Blizzards: Sudden winter storms create whiteout conditions
• High winds: Can blow high-profile trailers off course
• Ice: Black ice forms on bridges and overpasses
• Fog: Common in low-lying areas near Rita Blanca Lake
• Dust storms: Reduce visibility on open highways

Truck drivers must adjust their driving for conditions, but many fail to do so. We’ve handled cases where drivers didn’t reduce speed during blizzards on US-385.

10. Road Design and Maintenance Issues

While less common, we’ve seen accidents caused by:

• Inadequate signage: Especially for truck routes
• Poor road maintenance: Potholes, uneven surfaces
• Dangerous intersections: Like US-87 and US-385 in Dalhart
• Insufficient truck parking: Leading to unsafe parking on shoulders
• Lack of runaway truck ramps: On long descents

When government entities are at fault, special rules apply. We have experience holding municipalities and state agencies accountable for dangerous road conditions in Dallam County.

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Dallam County Trucking Cases

The physics of truck crashes make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. An 80,000-pound truck carries 20-25 times the kinetic energy of a passenger vehicle. When that energy transfers to your car, the results are devastating.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI is one of the most common and devastating injuries we see. The extreme forces in truck crashes cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull, leading to:

• Mild TBI (Concussion): Headaches, confusion, memory problems
• Moderate TBI: Extended unconsciousness, cognitive deficits
• Severe TBI: Permanent disability, coma, or death

Symptoms may not appear immediately, which is why we always recommend immediate medical evaluation at Coon Memorial Hospital or another local facility after any truck crash.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Spinal cord damage often results in permanent paralysis:

• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
• Incomplete injuries: Some nerve function remains
• Complete injuries: Total loss of function below injury

The level of injury determines the extent of paralysis. Higher injuries (cervical spine) affect more body functions and may require ventilators for breathing.

Amputations

The crushing forces in truck crashes often lead to:

• Traumatic amputations: Limbs severed at the scene
• Surgical amputations: Limbs so damaged they must be removed
• Multiple amputations: In severe crashes

Amputations require extensive medical care, including prosthetics, rehabilitation, and psychological counseling.

Severe Burns

Burns occur when:

• Fuel tanks rupture and ignite
• Hazardous materials spill and catch fire
• Electrical systems short circuit
• Friction creates heat from road contact

Burn injuries require multiple surgeries, skin grafts, and long-term care.

Internal Organ Damage

The extreme forces in truck crashes often cause:

• Liver lacerations
• Spleen damage
• Kidney injuries
• Lung contusions
• Internal bleeding
• Bowel perforations

These injuries may not show immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening.

Wrongful Death

When truck crashes are fatal, we help families pursue wrongful death claims. Texas law allows recovery for:

• Lost future income
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish
• Funeral expenses
• Medical expenses before death
• Pain and suffering before death

Who Can Be Held Liable in Your Dallam County Trucking Case

One of the most important differences between car accidents and trucking accidents is that MULTIPLE parties may be responsible for your injuries. We investigate every potential defendant to maximize your recovery.

1. The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving
• Fatigued driving
• Impaired driving
• Failure to conduct proper inspections
• Traffic law violations

2. The Trucking Company

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

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

• The driver was an employee
• Acting within the scope of employment
• Performing job duties when accident occurred

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent hiring: Hiring unqualified drivers
• Negligent training: Inadequate safety training
• Negligent supervision: Failing to monitor driver behavior
• Negligent maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep
• Negligent scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate HOS

3. The Cargo Owner

The company that owns the cargo may be liable for:

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
• Requiring overweight loads
• Pressuring carriers to expedite shipments

4. The Loading Company

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking and bracing

5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for:

• Design defects (brake systems, stability control)
• Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
• Failure to warn of known dangers

6. Parts Manufacturers

Companies that make specific parts may be liable for:

• Defective brakes
• Defective tires
• Defective steering components
• Defective lighting systems

7. Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers may be liable for:

• Negligent repairs
• Failure to identify safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard parts

8. Freight Brokers

Freight brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

• Negligent selection of carriers
• Failure to verify carrier safety records
• Selecting carriers with poor insurance

9. The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may be liable for:

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

10. Government Entities

Federal, state, or local government may be liable for:

• Dangerous road design
• Failure to maintain roads
• Inadequate signage
• Failure to install safety barriers

The Evidence That Wins Trucking Cases in Dallam County

Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act fast, critical evidence will be lost forever.

Electronic Data: The Objective Truth

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

“In one Dallam County case, the ECM data showed the driver was traveling 75 mph in a 65 mph zone on US-385. The ELD data proved he had been driving for 14 consecutive hours without a break. That objective evidence helped us secure a $3.2 million settlement for our client.”

Driver and Company Records

We subpoena comprehensive records to build your case:

• Driver Qualification File: Employment application, background check, medical certification, training records
• Hours of Service Records: ELD data, paper logs (if applicable)
• Maintenance Records: Inspection reports, repair orders, parts records
• Dispatch Records: Trip assignments, delivery schedules
• Drug and Alcohol Test Results: Pre-employment and random tests
• Cell Phone Records: To prove distracted driving
• Training Records: Safety training, cargo securement training
• Previous Accident History: For driver and company

Physical Evidence

We preserve and analyze:

• The truck and trailer themselves
• Failed or damaged components
• Cargo and securement devices
• Tire remnants (if blowout involved)
• Skid marks and road evidence

Witness Statements

We interview:

• Other drivers who witnessed the crash
• Passengers in your vehicle
• First responders
• Truck stop employees
• Weigh station personnel
• Local business owners who may have surveillance footage

Expert Analysis

We work with:

• Accident reconstruction experts: To determine how the crash occurred
• Trucking industry experts: To identify regulatory violations
• Medical experts: To document your injuries and future needs
• Economic experts: To calculate lost earning capacity
• Life care planners: To develop comprehensive care plans

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

In trucking cases, evidence disappears fast. We act immediately to preserve critical evidence before it’s lost.

The Spoliation Letter: Your Legal Shield

A spoliation letter is a formal legal notice demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. We send these within 24-48 hours of being retained.

What We Demand Preserved:

• ECM/Black Box data
• ELD records
• Dashcam footage
• GPS and telematics data
• Driver Qualification File
• Hours of Service records
• Maintenance records
• Inspection reports
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Cell phone records
• Dispatch communications
• The physical truck and trailer
• Failed components
• Cargo and securement devices

Why It Matters:

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

Immediate Investigation Steps

Within the first 48 hours, we:

1. Send spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties
2. Deploy investigators to the accident scene if needed
3. Obtain police crash reports from the Dallam County Sheriff’s Office
4. Photograph your injuries with medical documentation
5. Photograph all vehicles before they’re repaired or scrapped
6. Identify all potentially liable parties
7. Canvass for witnesses before memories fade
8. Secure surveillance footage from nearby businesses

The Types of Accidents We See in Dallam County

Jackknife Accidents

What Happens: The trailer and cab skid in opposite directions, with the trailer folding at an angle like a pocket knife.

Dallam County Hotspots:

• US-385 near the Oklahoma border
• US-87 curves approaching Dalhart
• SH-102 intersections
• Icy bridges during winter storms

Common Causes in Dallam County:

• Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
• Speeding on curves
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing)
• Improperly loaded cargo
• Brake failures
• Driver inexperience

Evidence We Gather:

• Skid mark analysis showing trailer angle
• Brake inspection records
• Weather conditions at time of accident
• ELD data showing speed before braking
• ECM data for brake application timing
• Cargo manifest and loading records

Rollover Accidents

What Happens: The truck tips onto its side or roof, often blocking multiple lanes.

Dallam County Hotspots:

• US-87 curves near Dalhart
• US-385 near the Rita Blanca Lake area
• SH-102 with agricultural equipment
• Exit ramps from US-54

Common Causes in Dallam County:

• Speeding on curves and ramps
• Improperly secured cargo shifting center of gravity
• Liquid cargo “slosh” in tankers
• Overcorrection after tire blowout or lane departure
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reaction
• Poor road design on rural highways

Evidence We Gather:

• ECM data for speed through curve
• Cargo manifest and securement documentation
• Load distribution records
• Driver training records on rollover prevention
• Road geometry and signage analysis
• Witness statements on truck speed

Underride Collisions

What Happens: A smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of a trailer and slides underneath, often shearing off the passenger compartment.

Dallam County Hotspots:

• US-87 intersections in Dalhart
• US-385 near truck stops
• Rural intersections with poor lighting
• Areas where trucks make wide turns

Types:

• Rear underride: Vehicle strikes back of trailer
• Side underride: Vehicle impacts side of trailer during lane changes or turns

Common Causes in Dallam County:

• Inadequate or missing underride guards
• Worn or damaged rear impact guards
• Truck sudden stops without warning
• Low visibility conditions (fog, night)
• Truck lane changes into blind spots
• Wide right turns cutting off traffic
• Inadequate rear lighting or reflectors

Evidence We Gather:

• Underride guard inspection and maintenance records
• Rear lighting compliance documentation
• Crash dynamics showing underride depth
• Guard installation and certification records
• Visibility conditions at accident scene

Rear-End Collisions

What Happens: The truck strikes the back of another vehicle or your vehicle strikes the back of the truck.

Dallam County Hotspots:

• US-385 near truck stops
• US-87 approaching Dalhart
• Construction zones on rural highways
• Areas with sudden traffic slowdowns

Common Causes in Dallam County:

• Following too closely (tailgating)
• Driver distraction (cell phone, dispatch communications)
• Driver fatigue and delayed reaction
• Excessive speed for conditions
• Brake failures from poor maintenance
• Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns
• Impaired driving

Evidence We Gather:

• ECM data showing following distance and speed
• ELD data for driver fatigue analysis
• Cell phone records for distraction evidence
• Brake inspection and maintenance records
• Dashcam footage
• Traffic conditions and speed limits

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

What Happens: The truck 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 the vehicle in the gap.

Dallam County Hotspots:

• US-87 and US-385 intersection in Dalhart
• Rural intersections with agricultural equipment
• Truck stops and rest areas
• Areas where trucks make deliveries

Why Trucks Make Wide Turns:

• Trailers track inside the path of the cab
• Drivers must swing wide to avoid curbs, signs, or buildings
• Large trucks need more space to complete turns

Common Causes in Dallam County:

• Failure to properly signal turning intention
• Inadequate mirror checks before and during turn
• Improper turn technique
• Driver inexperience with trailer tracking
• Failure to yield right-of-way when completing turn
• Poor intersection design

Evidence We Gather:

• Turn signal activation data from ECM
• Mirror condition and adjustment records
• Driver training records on turning procedures
• Intersection geometry analysis
• Witness statements on turn execution
• Surveillance camera footage

Blind Spot Collisions (“No-Zone” Accidents)

What Happens: The truck changes lanes or maneuvers without seeing a vehicle in one of its four major blind spots.

The Four No-Zones:

1. Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
2. Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
3. Left Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward
4. Right Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward, much larger than left

Dallam County Hotspots:

• US-385 during lane changes
• US-87 near truck stops
• Rural highways with multiple lanes
• Areas where trucks merge or exit

Common Causes in Dallam County:

• Failure to check mirrors before lane changes
• Improperly adjusted or damaged mirrors
• Inadequate mirror checking during maneuvers
• Driver distraction
• Driver fatigue affecting situational awareness
• Failure to use turn signals

Evidence We Gather:

• Mirror condition and adjustment at time of crash
• Lane change data from ECM/telematics
• Turn signal activation records
• Driver training on blind spot awareness
• Dashcam footage
• Witness statements

Tire Blowout Accidents

What Happens: A tire suddenly fails, causing the driver to lose control.

Dallam County Hotspots:

• US-385 with long-haul trucks
• US-87 with agricultural equipment
• Rural highways with temperature swings
• Areas with road debris

Common Causes in Dallam County:

• 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
• Heat buildup on long hauls
• Inadequate pre-trip tire inspections

Evidence We Gather:

• Tire maintenance and inspection records
• Tire age and wear documentation
• Tire inflation records and pressure checks
• Vehicle weight records (weigh station)
• Tire manufacturer and purchase records
• Failed tire for defect analysis

Brake Failure Accidents

What Happens: The truck’s braking system fails or underperforms, preventing the driver from stopping in time.

Dallam County Hotspots:

• Long descents on US-385 into Colorado
• US-87 approaching Dalhart
• Rural highways with steep grades
• Areas with heavy agricultural equipment

Common Causes in Dallam County:

• 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
• Failure to conduct pre-trip brake inspections
• Deferred maintenance to save costs

Evidence We Gather:

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

Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents

What Happens: Improperly secured cargo falls from the truck or shifts during transport, causing instability or hazards.

Dallam County Hotspots:

• US-385 with agricultural loads
• US-87 with livestock trailers
• SH-102 with farm equipment
• Rural highways with oilfield equipment

Types:

• Cargo Shift: Load moves during transit, destabilizing truck
• Cargo Spill: Load falls from truck onto roadway
• Hazmat Spill: Hazardous materials leak or spill

Common Causes in Dallam County:

• Inadequate tiedowns (insufficient number or strength)
• Improper loading distribution
• Failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats
• Tiedown failure due to wear or damage
• Overloading beyond securement capacity
• Failure to re-inspect cargo during trip
• Loose tarps allowing cargo shift

Evidence We Gather:

• Cargo securement inspection photos
• Bill of lading and cargo manifest
• Loading company records
• Tiedown specifications and condition
• 49 CFR 393 compliance documentation
• Driver training on cargo securement

The Insurance Battle: How Trucking Companies Try to Deny Your Claim

Trucking companies and their insurers have teams of adjusters and lawyers working to minimize your claim from the moment the accident happens. We know their tactics because our team includes a former insurance defense attorney.

Common Insurance Tactics and How We Counter Them

The Legal Process: What to Expect in Your Dallam County Trucking Case

Step 1: Free Consultation

We offer free, no-obligation consultations to evaluate your case. During this meeting, we’ll:

• Listen to your story
• Review available evidence
• Explain your legal options
• Answer your questions
• Explain our contingency fee arrangement

Step 2: Investigation and Evidence Preservation

We immediately begin investigating your case:

• Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
• Obtain police crash reports
• Interview witnesses
• Gather medical records
• Obtain ECM/ELD data
• Consult with experts
• Photograph the accident scene and vehicles

Step 3: Medical Treatment and Documentation

We help you get the medical care you need and document your injuries:

• Connect you with local specialists
• Arrange for diagnostic testing
• Document all treatment
• Obtain expert opinions on prognosis
• Calculate future medical needs

Step 4: Demand Letter

Once we understand the full extent of your injuries, we send a comprehensive demand letter to the insurance companies outlining:

• The facts of the accident
• The negligence of the defendants
• The extent of your injuries
• Your medical expenses
• Your lost wages
• Your pain and suffering
• Your future care needs
• The compensation you’re seeking

Step 5: Negotiation

We negotiate aggressively with the insurance companies to reach a fair settlement. Most cases settle at this stage, but we’re always prepared to go to trial if necessary.

Step 6: Litigation (If Needed)

If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we file a lawsuit and begin the litigation process:

• Filing the Complaint: Officially starting the lawsuit
• Discovery: Exchanging information with the defendants
• Depositions: Taking sworn testimony from witnesses
• Motions: Legal arguments before the court
• Mediation: Attempting to settle with a neutral mediator
• Trial: Presenting your case to a jury

Step 7: Resolution

Your case will resolve through either:

• Settlement: Agreeing to compensation without trial
• Verdict: A jury award after trial

The Compensation You Deserve

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical auto policies, allowing for significant compensation when they’re held accountable.

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

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)

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Dallam County Trucking Case

When you’re fighting against trucking companies with unlimited resources, you need a law firm with the experience, knowledge, and determination to win. Here’s why families across the Texas Panhandle choose Attorney911:

1. Proven Track Record of Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims, including:

• $5+ Million for a logging brain injury case
• $3.8+ Million for a car accident amputation case
• $2.5+ Million for truck crash recovery
• $2+ Million for a maritime back injury case
• Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases

2. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

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

• Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts
• Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Experience in BP explosion litigation against multinational corporations
• Deep knowledge of FMCSA regulations and trucking industry practices

3. Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers operate. He understands:

• How insurance companies value claims
• How adjusters are trained to minimize payouts
• What makes them settle cases
• How they deny claims
• The claims valuation software they use

This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage in building your case and negotiating with insurers.

4. Immediate Evidence Preservation

We act fast to preserve critical evidence:

• Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
• Demand immediate download of ECM/ELD data
• Secure dashcam footage before it’s deleted
• Obtain maintenance and inspection records
• Preserve the physical truck and trailer
• Interview witnesses while memories are fresh

5. Comprehensive Investigation

We leave no stone unturned in investigating your case:

• Obtain complete Driver Qualification Files
• Analyze ELD and ECM data
• Review maintenance and inspection records
• Investigate cargo loading and securement
• Consult with accident reconstruction experts
• Identify all potentially liable parties
• Build a case for maximum compensation

6. Federal Court Experience

Our admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas allows us to handle:

• Interstate trucking cases
• Complex multi-party litigation
• Cases involving federal regulations
• Cases against large corporations

7. Bilingual Services

Many truck drivers and accident victims in Dallam County speak Spanish as their primary language. 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 Arrangement

We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict, not your pocket. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation.

9. Personalized Attention

Unlike large billboard firms that treat you like a number, we provide personalized attention:

• Direct access to your attorney
• Regular case updates
• Prompt responses to your questions
• Compassionate representation

10. Local Knowledge of Dallam County

We understand the unique challenges of trucking cases in Dallam County:

• The trucking corridors serving the Panhandle
• The local courts and judges
• The weather conditions that affect driving
• The agricultural and oilfield industries that generate truck traffic
• The local medical facilities and specialists

What Our Clients Say About Us

Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what our clients say about working with Attorney911:

“They treated me like FAMILY, not just another case number.”
— Chad Harris

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

“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

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

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

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

“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day… it only took 6 months amazing.”
— Chavodrian Miles

The Urgency of Acting Now

If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Dallam County, time is critical. Evidence disappears quickly:

• ECM/Black Box data: Can be overwritten in 30 days
• ELD data: May be retained only 6 months
• Dashcam footage: Often deleted within 7-14 days
• Surveillance video: Typically overwritten in 7-30 days
• Witness memories: Fade significantly within weeks
• Physical evidence: Vehicles may be repaired, sold, or scrapped

The trucking company has rapid-response teams working to protect their interests. You need someone working just as hard to protect yours.

Call Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Dallam County, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911). We offer:

• Free consultations
• 24/7 availability
• No fee unless we win
• Immediate evidence preservation

Don’t let the trucking company’s lawyers and insurance adjusters take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 today and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

“The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect them. You deserve the same level of representation. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today.”