18-Wheeler Accidents in Deaf Smith County: Your Complete Legal Guide

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Deaf Smith County, Texas, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. The aftermath of a commercial truck crash brings overwhelming medical bills, lost income, and physical pain that can last for years. At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for truck accident victims across the Texas Panhandle, and we know exactly how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

Why Deaf Smith County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Deaf Smith County’s unique geography and economy create specific trucking hazards that don’t exist in other parts of Texas. Our county sits at the crossroads of major agricultural and energy transportation routes, with US-60 and US-385 serving as critical corridors for grain, livestock, and oilfield equipment. The flat terrain of the High Plains might seem safe, but this very feature encourages excessive speeds among truck drivers making long hauls across the Panhandle.

The county’s agricultural industry means you’ll frequently encounter:

• Grain trucks hauling heavy loads to Hereford’s processing facilities
• Livestock trailers transporting cattle to local feedlots
• Overweight trucks exceeding legal limits during harvest seasons
• Farm equipment being transported on highways

These factors combine to create a dangerous environment where fatigued drivers, improperly loaded trucks, and poorly maintained vehicles become commonplace on Deaf Smith County roads.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Crashes

Every year, thousands of families across Texas are forever changed by catastrophic trucking accidents. In Deaf Smith County alone, we’ve seen firsthand how these crashes destroy lives in an instant. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks – up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded – means that when accidents happen, the consequences are often fatal or life-altering.

Consider these sobering statistics:

• A fully loaded 18-wheeler requires 525 feet to stop from 65 mph – nearly two football fields
• Trucks are 20-25 times heavier than passenger vehicles
• The average trucking accident settlement in Texas exceeds $500,000
• Over 5,000 Americans die in truck crashes annually
• 76% of those killed are occupants of the smaller vehicle

In Deaf Smith County, we’ve seen how these physics play out on our local roads. The long, straight stretches of US-60 and US-385 may seem safe, but they lull drivers into complacency. When a truck driver loses control – whether from fatigue, distraction, or mechanical failure – the results are catastrophic.

Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Deaf Smith County

Our experience handling trucking cases throughout the Texas Panhandle has shown us that certain types of accidents occur with alarming frequency in Deaf Smith County:

Jackknife Accidents on Icy Roads

Deaf Smith County’s winter weather creates perfect conditions for jackknife accidents. When temperatures drop, the moisture on our roads can freeze into black ice, creating invisible hazards. Truck drivers unfamiliar with Panhandle conditions often fail to reduce speed appropriately, leading to loss of control. When a truck jackknifes, the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often sweeping across multiple lanes of traffic and causing multi-vehicle pileups.

Rollover Accidents on Rural Highways

The combination of high winds and improperly loaded trailers makes rollover accidents particularly common in Deaf Smith County. Our flat terrain means wind can gust across open fields with nothing to slow it down. When a truck driver takes a curve too fast or encounters a sudden crosswind, the high center of gravity on loaded trailers can cause the entire rig to tip over. These accidents frequently result in cargo spills that create additional hazards for other motorists.

Rear-End Collisions at Stoplights

The intersection of US-60 and US-385 in Hereford sees more than its share of rear-end collisions. Truck drivers approaching stoplights often fail to account for the longer stopping distances required by their vehicles. When a truck rear-ends a passenger vehicle at these intersections, the results are often catastrophic due to the height differential between the vehicles.

Underride Accidents on County Roads

Deaf Smith County’s rural roads present unique hazards when it comes to underride accidents. Many of these roads lack proper lighting, making it difficult for drivers to see stopped or slow-moving trucks at night. When a passenger vehicle strikes the side or rear of a trailer and slides underneath, the top of the vehicle is often sheared off, resulting in decapitation or other fatal injuries.

Wide Turn Accidents in Hereford

The tight turns required in Hereford’s business district create dangerous conditions for wide turn accidents. Truck drivers making right turns must swing wide to avoid curbs and buildings, often cutting off vehicles in adjacent lanes. These accidents frequently involve pedestrians and cyclists who become trapped between the truck and the curb.

Fatigue-Related Crashes on Long Hauls

The long, monotonous stretches of highway in Deaf Smith County contribute to driver fatigue. Truck drivers making cross-country hauls often push their hours-of-service limits to meet delivery deadlines. When fatigue sets in, reaction times slow and drivers become more likely to drift out of their lanes or fall asleep at the wheel.

Who’s Really Responsible for Your Injuries?

One of the most important things to understand about 18-wheeler accidents is that multiple parties may share responsibility for your injuries. Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve a web of companies and individuals who all contributed to the dangerous conditions that caused the crash.

In Deaf Smith County cases, we’ve successfully held these parties accountable:

The Truck Driver

The driver who caused your accident may be personally liable for their negligent conduct. Common driver violations we see in Deaf Smith County include:

• Speeding on rural highways
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, texting, dispatch communications)
• Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol, prescription medication)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Violation of traffic laws (running red lights, improper lane changes)

The Trucking Company

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets and the most responsibility for safety. In Deaf Smith County cases, we’ve seen how companies based in Amarillo, Lubbock, and even out-of-state carriers cut corners to maximize profits.

Trucking companies can be held liable through:

• Vicarious liability (respondeat superior) – when the driver was an employee acting within the scope of employment
• Direct negligence – when the company itself failed to act responsibly

Common trucking company violations include:

• Negligent hiring – failing to check driver backgrounds, driving records, or qualifications
• Negligent training – inadequate training on safety, cargo securement, or hours-of-service regulations
• Negligent supervision – failing to monitor driver performance or ELD compliance
• Negligent maintenance – failing to maintain vehicles in safe condition
• Negligent scheduling – pressuring drivers to violate HOS regulations to meet deadlines

Cargo Owners and Shippers

The companies that own the cargo and arrange for its shipment may share liability, especially in Deaf Smith County where agricultural products are frequently transported. We’ve seen cases where:

• Grain elevators provided improper loading instructions
• Feedlots failed to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
• Shippers required overweight loads to meet deadlines
• Companies pressured carriers to expedite shipments beyond safe limits

Cargo Loading Companies

Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo onto trucks may be liable for improper securement. In Deaf Smith County, we’ve investigated cases where:

• Loading crews failed to properly secure grain loads
• Livestock trailers were improperly loaded
• Equipment was not properly blocked and braced
• Weight distribution was improperly calculated

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

The companies that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for defects. In our cases, we’ve found:

• Defective brake systems
• Faulty steering mechanisms
• Unstable trailer designs
• Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

Parts Manufacturers

Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable when their products fail. Common issues we’ve encountered include:

• Defective brake components that fail under normal use
• Tires that blow out due to manufacturing defects
• Steering components that fail without warning
• Lighting systems that malfunction

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets may be liable for negligent repairs. In Deaf Smith County cases, we’ve found:

• Negligent brake adjustments that failed to meet specifications
• Improper tire repairs that led to blowouts
• Failure to identify critical safety issues during inspections
• Use of substandard or incorrect parts

Freight Brokers

Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for negligent carrier selection. We’ve pursued cases against brokers who:

• Selected carriers with poor safety records
• Failed to verify carrier insurance and authority
• Ignored carrier CSA scores
• Chose the cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, federal, state, or local government may share responsibility. In Deaf Smith County, we’ve investigated cases involving:

• Dangerous road designs on county highways
• Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
• Inadequate signage for known hazards
• Improper work zone setups

The Critical Evidence That Wins Trucking Cases

In 18-wheeler accident cases, evidence disappears fast. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act quickly, critical evidence will be lost forever.

At Attorney911, we understand the urgency of preserving evidence in Deaf Smith County trucking cases. Our team moves immediately to secure:

Electronic Data That Tells the True Story

Commercial trucks are equipped with sophisticated electronic systems that record operational data – similar to an airplane’s black box. This data provides objective evidence that often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

Engine Control Module (ECM) Data:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing and force
• Engine RPM and throttle position
• Cruise control status
• Fault codes indicating mechanical issues

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Data:

• Driver hours of service
• Duty status changes
• GPS location history
• Driving time and rest periods

Telematics and GPS Data:

• Real-time speed tracking
• Route history
• Driver behavior metrics (hard braking, rapid acceleration)

Dashcam Footage:

• Video of the road ahead
• Some systems record cab interior
• Critical for proving driver distraction or impairment

Driver Records That Expose Negligent Hiring

Trucking companies are required to maintain comprehensive files on every driver. These records often reveal patterns of negligence that contributed to your accident.

Driver Qualification File Must Include:

• Employment application
• Motor vehicle record (MVR) from state licensing authority
• Road test certificate or equivalent documentation
• Medical examiner’s certificate (current, valid for max 2 years)
• Annual driving record review
• Previous employer inquiries (3-year driving history investigation)
• Drug and alcohol test records

Maintenance Records That Prove Deferred Repairs

Trucking companies must maintain detailed records of all vehicle maintenance and inspections. These records often reveal a pattern of deferred maintenance that contributed to the accident.

Required Maintenance Documentation:

• Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
• Annual inspection records
• Brake adjustment records
• Tire replacement and rotation history
• Repair work orders
• Parts purchase records

Cargo Documentation That Shows Improper Loading

Cargo records reveal whether the load was properly secured and distributed. In Deaf Smith County cases, we’ve found:

• Grain loads that shifted during transport
• Livestock trailers with inadequate securement
• Equipment loads that exceeded weight limits
• Hazardous materials shipments with improper documentation

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

At Attorney911, we have a strict 48-hour protocol for preserving evidence in Deaf Smith County trucking cases:

1. Immediate Spoliation Letter: We send formal legal notices to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence related to the accident.

2. Electronic Data Preservation: We demand immediate download of ECM, ELD, GPS, and dashcam data before it can be overwritten.

3. Physical Evidence Protection: We secure the truck and trailer, failed components, and cargo before they can be repaired or disposed of.

4. Witness Interviews: We locate and interview witnesses while their memories are fresh.

5. Scene Documentation: We photograph the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any relevant signage.

6. Accident Reconstruction: We deploy experts to analyze skid marks, debris patterns, and vehicle damage.

Catastrophic Injuries We See in Deaf Smith County Trucking Cases

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. The size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles means that when accidents happen, the consequences are often life-altering.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In Deaf Smith County trucking accidents, we frequently see:

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

Common symptoms include:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory loss and confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes, depression, anxiety
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
• Speech difficulties
• Personality changes

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis. In our Deaf Smith County cases, we’ve seen:

• 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 sensation and movement

The level of injury determines the extent of paralysis:

• Cervical (Neck) Injuries: Affect arms, hands, trunk, and legs
• Thoracic (Upper Back) Injuries: Affect trunk and legs
• Lumbar (Lower Back) Injuries: Affect legs and hips
• Sacral (Pelvic) Injuries: Affect hips, thighs, legs, and pelvic organs

Amputations

The crushing forces in trucking accidents often result in traumatic amputations or injuries so severe that surgical amputation is required. Common amputations we see include:

• Leg amputations above or below the knee
• Arm amputations above or below the elbow
• Finger and hand amputations
• Multiple limb amputations

Severe Burns

Burns occur in trucking accidents due to:

• Fuel tank ruptures and fires
• Hazardous material spills and ignition
• Electrical fires from damaged wiring
• Friction burns from road contact
• Chemical burns from cargo spills

Burn severity is classified by degree:

• First Degree: Epidermis only (minor, heals without scarring)
• Second Degree: Epidermis and dermis (may scar, may need grafting)
• Third Degree: Full thickness (requires skin grafts, permanent scarring)
• Fourth Degree: Through skin to muscle/bone (multiple surgeries, may require amputation)

Internal Organ Damage

The extreme forces in trucking accidents often cause internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Common internal injuries include:

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

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members may bring a wrongful death claim. In Deaf Smith County, we’ve helped families recover compensation for:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred prior to death
• Pain and suffering experienced by the decedent before death

The Insurance Battle: What You’re Really Up Against

Trucking companies and their insurers have one goal: to pay you as little as possible. They have teams of adjusters, investigators, and lawyers working from the moment of the accident to protect their interests – not yours.

At Attorney911, we have a unique advantage in this battle. Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for a national defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims because he used to do it himself.

Common Insurance Tactics and How We Counter Them

The Insurance Coverage That Makes Justice Possible

Unlike car accidents where insurance may be limited to $30,000-$100,000, trucking accidents typically have much higher coverage limits. Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance:

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more in coverage. This higher coverage means that catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.

What Your Case Is Really Worth

The value of your Deaf Smith County trucking accident case depends on many factors, including:

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

• Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs including hospital bills, doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, and medical equipment
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to injury and recovery time
• Lost Earning Capacity: Reduction in your ability to earn income in the future
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle and other personal property
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, and other accident-related expenses
• Life Care Costs: Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries including in-home care, rehabilitation, and specialized equipment

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

• 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, visible injuries, and physical changes
• Loss of Consortium: Impact on your marriage and family relationships
• Physical Impairment: Reduced physical capabilities

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence)

In cases involving gross negligence, reckless disregard for safety, or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be available to punish the wrongdoer. Texas law allows punitive damages when the defendant acted with:

• Gross negligence
• Willful misconduct
• Conscious indifference to safety
• Fraud (such as falsifying logs or destroying evidence)

Recent Trucking Verdicts That Show What’s Possible

The trucking industry has seen unprecedented jury verdicts in recent years. These cases demonstrate that juries are willing to hold trucking companies fully accountable when they prioritize profits over safety:

These verdicts show what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable for their negligence. Insurance companies know that juries are willing to award massive damages – which strengthens our position in settlement negotiations.

The Legal Process: What to Expect in Your Deaf Smith County Case

Step 1: Free Consultation

Your first step is a free, no-obligation consultation with our Deaf Smith County trucking accident attorneys. We’ll evaluate your case, explain your rights, and help you understand your options. This consultation is completely confidential and comes with no obligation.

Step 2: Case Acceptance

If we believe we can help you, we’ll accept your case on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront – our fee comes from the settlement or verdict we obtain for you.

Step 3: Immediate Investigation

We move quickly to preserve evidence:

• Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
• Demand preservation of ECM, ELD, and dashcam data
• Secure the truck and trailer before they can be repaired
• Photograph the accident scene and vehicle damage
• Interview witnesses while memories are fresh
• Hire accident reconstruction experts

Step 4: Medical Care Facilitation

We help you get the medical treatment you need, even if you don’t have health insurance. We work with medical providers who will treat you on a lien basis, meaning they get paid from your settlement.

Step 5: Demand Letter

Once your medical treatment is complete or we have a clear picture of your future medical needs, we send a comprehensive demand letter to the trucking company’s insurance carrier. This letter details:

• How the accident happened
• Who was at fault
• The full extent of your injuries
• Your medical treatment and expenses
• Your lost wages and earning capacity
• Your pain and suffering
• Your future care needs

Step 6: Negotiation

We negotiate aggressively with the insurance company to obtain a fair settlement. Our goal is to resolve your case as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery. We never accept lowball offers – we’re prepared to take your case to trial if necessary.

Step 7: Litigation (If Needed)

If the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer, we file a lawsuit in the appropriate Deaf Smith County court. The litigation process includes:

• Discovery: Exchange of information and documents between the parties
• Depositions: Sworn testimony from witnesses, including the truck driver, company representatives, and experts
• Motions: Legal arguments to resolve issues before trial
• Mediation: Attempt to resolve the case through a neutral mediator
• Trial: Presentation of your case to a jury

Step 8: Resolution

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation creates leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready to fight for you in court if necessary.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Deaf Smith County Trucking Case

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just any attorney – you need a team with the experience, resources, and local knowledge to take on the trucking industry. Here’s why Attorney911 is the right choice for Deaf Smith County trucking accident victims:

25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He has recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. Ralph’s experience includes:

• Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Experience in BP explosion litigation against multinational corporations
• A track record of holding trucking companies accountable for negligent hiring, training, and supervision

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for a national defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims because he used to do it himself. This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage in building your case and negotiating with insurance companies.

Local Knowledge of Deaf Smith County

We know Deaf Smith County’s trucking corridors, from US-60’s long straightaways to the tight turns in Hereford’s business district. We understand:

• The unique hazards of our rural highways
• The agricultural trucking patterns that affect traffic
• The local courts and judges who handle trucking cases
• The insurance companies that frequently defend trucking cases in our area

Aggressive Evidence Preservation

We understand that evidence disappears fast in trucking cases. That’s why we have a strict 48-hour evidence preservation protocol. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve:

• ECM/Black box data
• ELD records
• Dashcam footage
• Driver qualification files
• Maintenance records
• And all other critical evidence

Proven Track Record of Results

Our firm has recovered millions of dollars for trucking accident victims. While every case is unique, our results demonstrate our ability to hold trucking companies accountable:

• $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
• $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement
• $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases
• $50+ Million recovered for Texas families across all practice areas

Compassionate, Client-Focused Representation

We understand that you’re going through one of the most difficult times of your life. We treat every client like family, providing:

• Direct access to your attorney
• Regular case updates
• Compassionate guidance through the legal process
• Support for your medical and financial needs

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. This means:

• No upfront costs
• No hourly fees
• No out-of-pocket expenses
• Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict we obtain for you

What to Do Right Now

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Deaf Smith County, time is critical. Evidence is disappearing every hour, and the trucking company is already building their defense. Here’s what you need to do right now:

1. Call Attorney911 Immediately: Our Deaf Smith County trucking accident attorneys are available 24/7. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free consultation.

2. Don’t Talk to Insurance Adjusters: The trucking company’s insurance adjuster is not your friend. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Refer all calls to your attorney.

3. Follow Your Doctor’s Orders: Get the medical treatment you need and follow your doctor’s recommendations. Your health is the most important priority.

4. Document Everything: Keep records of all medical treatment, expenses, and how your injuries affect your daily life.

5. Stay Off Social Media: Insurance companies will use your social media posts against you. Avoid posting about your accident or injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions About Deaf Smith County Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Deaf Smith County?

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Deaf Smith County, take these steps immediately if you’re able:

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
• Document the scene with photos and video if possible
• Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
• Collect witness contact information
• Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
• Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately

Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?

YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Deaf Smith County hospitals like Hereford Regional Medical Center can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

What information should I collect at the truck accident scene?

Document everything possible:

• Truck and trailer license plates
• DOT number (on truck door)
• Trucking company name and logo
• Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
• Photos of all vehicle damage
• Photos of the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks
• Photos of your injuries
• Witness names and phone numbers
• Responding officer’s name and badge number
• Weather and road conditions

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

NO. Do not give any recorded statements. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests.

How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney in Deaf Smith County?

IMMEDIATELY – within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence in trucking cases (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Deaf Smith County?

Multiple parties may be liable in trucking accidents:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company/motor carrier
• The cargo owner or shipper
• The company that loaded the cargo
• Truck or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers
• The truck owner (if different from carrier)
• Government entities (for road defects)

We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

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

Usually YES. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for:

• Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified drivers)
• Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
• Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
• Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)

What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs – the data tells the true story.

What is an owner-operator and does that affect my case?

An owner-operator is a driver who owns their own truck and contracts with trucking companies. This can complicate liability, but both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.

How do I find out if the trucking company has a bad safety record?

FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain the carrier’s:

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

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

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

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data – similar to airplane black boxes. This data can show:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Engine RPM and throttle position
• Whether cruise control was engaged
• GPS location

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are federally mandated devices that record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued. Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents.

How long does the trucking company keep black box and ELD data?

ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention for ELD data. This is why we send spoliation letters immediately – once we notify them of litigation, they must preserve everything.

What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We pursue:

• ECM/Black box data
• ELD records
• Driver Qualification File
• Maintenance records
• Inspection reports
• Dispatch logs
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training records
• Cell phone records
• Insurance policies
• The physical truck and trailer

Can the trucking company destroy evidence?

Once they’re on notice of potential litigation, destroying evidence is spoliation – a serious legal violation. Courts can:

• Instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable
• Impose monetary sanctions
• Enter default judgment in extreme cases
• Award punitive damages

What are hours of service regulations and how do violations cause accidents?

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

• Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 hours off duty
• Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
• 30-minute break required after 8 hours driving
• 60/70 hour weekly limits

Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. Drivers who violate these rules are too tired to react safely.

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find:

• Hours of service violations (driving too long)
• False log entries (lying about driving time)
• Brake system deficiencies
• Cargo securement failures
• Drug and alcohol violations
• Unqualified drivers (no valid CDL or medical certificate)
• Failure to inspect vehicles

What is a Driver Qualification File and why does it matter?

FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a file for every driver containing:

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

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

How do pre-trip inspections relate to my accident case?

Drivers must inspect their trucks before every trip. If they failed to conduct inspections or ignored known defects (bad brakes, worn tires, lighting problems), both the driver and company may be liable for negligence.

What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in Deaf Smith County?

Due to the massive size and weight disparity, trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Amputations
• Severe burns
• Internal organ damage
• Multiple fractures
• Wrongful death

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Deaf Smith County?

Case values depend on many factors:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of defendant’s negligence
• Insurance coverage available

Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents. We’ve seen verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions.

What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in Deaf Smith County?

Texas allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover:

• Lost future income
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish
• Funeral expenses
• Punitive damages if gross negligence

Time limits apply – contact us immediately to protect your rights.

How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Deaf Smith County?

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

• Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
• Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
• Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys. We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way if necessary.

Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?

NO. We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

Don’t Let the Trucking Company Win

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Deaf Smith County, you’re facing one of the most difficult challenges of your life. The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of representation.

At Attorney911, we have the experience, resources, and local knowledge to fight for the compensation you deserve. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how the other side operates. We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims, and we’re ready to put that experience to work for you.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you take the first step toward justice.

“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