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

Every year, hundreds of families across Texas face life-altering consequences from 18-wheeler accidents. If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking collision on Eastland County’s highways, you need to understand your rights and the unique challenges these cases present. At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for truck accident victims throughout Eastland County and beyond. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about 18-wheeler accidents in Eastland County – from immediate steps to take after a crash to how we build winning cases against trucking companies.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different in Eastland County

Trucking accidents aren’t like regular car crashes. The physics, regulations, and legal strategies are completely different. Here’s what makes Eastland County trucking cases unique:

The Physics of Destruction:
An 80,000-pound 18-wheeler carries 20-25 times the weight of your passenger vehicle. At highway speeds, that’s an enormous amount of kinetic energy that gets transferred to your car in a collision. The result? Catastrophic injuries that can change your life in an instant.

Eastland County’s Trucking Corridors:
Our county sits at the intersection of several major freight routes. The I-20 corridor running through Eastland County sees heavy truck traffic moving between Fort Worth, Abilene, and points east. US Highway 183 and State Highway 6 are also major trucking routes that connect to larger interstate systems. These high-traffic corridors create particular dangers for local drivers.

The Trucking Industry’s Playbook:
Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that arrive at accident scenes within hours. Their goal? Protect their interests, not yours. They’ll start building their defense immediately – often before you’ve even left the hospital. That’s why you need your own legal team working just as fast.

What To Do Immediately After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Eastland County

Your actions in the first 48 hours after a trucking accident can make or break your case. Follow these critical steps:

1. Call 911 and Report the Accident

Texas law requires reporting any accident involving injury, death, or property damage that prevents a vehicle from being safely driven. In Eastland County, you’ll typically reach the Eastland County Sheriff’s Office or the Texas Department of Public Safety. Provide your exact location – whether you’re on I-20, US 183, or one of our rural highways.

2. Seek Medical Attention – Even If You Feel Fine

Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Many serious injuries – like traumatic brain injuries, internal bleeding, or spinal damage – don’t show symptoms immediately. Eastland County has medical facilities ready to handle trauma cases, including:

• Eastland Memorial Hospital
• Local urgent care centers
• Specialists in Abilene or Fort Worth for more serious injuries

Why this matters: Insurance companies use delays in treatment to argue that your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident. Getting immediate medical care creates a clear link between the crash and your injuries.

3. Document the Scene Thoroughly

If you’re physically able, gather as much evidence as possible:

• Photograph all vehicles involved from multiple angles
• Capture the truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company information
• Take pictures of road conditions, skid marks, and traffic signs
• Photograph your injuries and any visible damage to your vehicle
• Get contact information from all witnesses

Pro tip: The truck’s DOT number (usually on the door) is like a social security number for the trucking company – it helps us track down all the records we need.

4. Collect Critical Information

Get the following from the truck driver:

• Full name and contact information
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) number
• Trucking company name and contact information
• Insurance information
• Trailer number (if separate from the tractor)

5. Don’t Give Statements to Insurance Adjusters

The trucking company’s insurance adjuster will call you – often within hours. Their job is to minimize your claim. Politely decline to give any statements and refer them to your attorney. Anything you say can and will be used against you.

6. Call Attorney911 Immediately

Time is critical in trucking cases. Evidence disappears quickly:

• Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days
• Dashcam footage gets deleted within weeks
• Witness memories fade
• Physical evidence gets repaired or destroyed

We send spoliation letters within 24 hours of being retained to preserve all evidence before it’s lost.

The Most Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Eastland County

Trucking accidents in Eastland County follow patterns based on our local road conditions and traffic patterns. Here are the most common types we see:

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, forming a “V” shape like a folding pocket knife. These are particularly dangerous on I-20’s curves and during sudden braking situations.

Common causes in Eastland County:

• Sudden braking on wet or icy roads (especially during winter months)
• Speeding on I-20’s curves near Ranger or Cisco
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing)
• Brake system failures
• Improper cargo loading

Rollover Accidents

With their high center of gravity, 18-wheelers are prone to rollovers, especially on rural highways with uneven shoulders or during sudden maneuvers.

Common causes in Eastland County:

• Taking curves too fast on rural highways
• Overcorrection after running off the road
• Improperly secured liquid cargo that shifts
• Uneven load distribution
• Wind gusts on open stretches of highway

Underride Collisions

Underride accidents occur when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or death.

Common causes in Eastland County:

• Inadequate or missing underride guards
• Poor visibility at night on rural roads
• Sudden stops by trucks without proper warning
• Wide right turns at intersections
• Improperly maintained rear lighting

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions are especially dangerous when an 18-wheeler is involved due to the massive weight disparity.

Common causes in Eastland County:

• Following too closely on I-20
• Driver distraction (cell phones, dispatch systems)
• Brake failures from poor maintenance
• Driver fatigue
• Failure to adjust speed for traffic conditions

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

These occur when a truck swings wide to make a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter – only to be crushed when the truck completes its turn.

Common locations in Eastland County:

• Intersections in Eastland and Ranger
• Highway exits and on-ramps
• Rural road intersections with limited visibility

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone” Accidents)

Trucks have massive blind spots where the driver can’t see other vehicles. Eastland County’s mix of rural and highway driving creates many opportunities for these accidents.

Eastland County’s most dangerous blind spots:

• The right side of the truck (largest blind spot)
• Directly behind the trailer (30+ feet)
• Directly in front of the cab (20+ feet)
• The left side of the truck (smaller but still significant)

Tire Blowout Accidents

Eastland County’s heat and long stretches of highway make tire blowouts a particular concern.

Common causes in Eastland County:

• Underinflated tires
• Overloaded vehicles
• Worn or aging tires
• Road debris on rural highways
• Manufacturing defects

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake failures are especially dangerous on Eastland County’s rural highways where trucks travel at high speeds for long distances.

Common causes in Eastland County:

• Worn brake pads not replaced
• Improper brake adjustments
• Air brake system leaks
• Overheated brakes on long descents
• Deferred maintenance to save costs

Proving Liability in Eastland County Trucking Accidents

Building a strong case requires proving that the trucking company or driver was negligent. Here’s how we do it:

FMCSA Violations: The Trucking Industry’s Rulebook

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates every aspect of commercial trucking. Violations of these regulations are powerful evidence of negligence.

Most Common FMCSA Violations in Eastland County Cases:

1. Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR § 395):

   • Driving more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
   • Driving beyond the 14th consecutive hour on duty
   • Not taking required 30-minute breaks
   • Exceeding 60/70-hour weekly limits

2. False Log Entries:

   • Falsifying paper logs or ELD records
   • “Cheating” the system to appear compliant

3. Brake System Deficiencies (49 CFR § 393.48):

   • Worn brake pads
   • Improper brake adjustments
   • Air brake system failures

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

   • Inadequate tiedowns
   • Improper load distribution
   • Failure to use blocking or bracing

5. Unqualified Drivers (49 CFR § 391):

   • No valid CDL
   • Expired medical certification
   • Incomplete background checks

6. Failure to Inspect (49 CFR § 396):

   • No pre-trip inspections
   • Ignoring known defects
   • Missing annual inspections

The Critical Evidence We Preserve

Black Box/ECM Data:
Modern trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) that record:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Engine RPM and throttle position
• GPS location
• Fault codes

ELD Records:
Electronic Logging Devices record:

• Driver hours of service
• Duty status
• GPS location
• Driving time

Driver Qualification File:
This file must contain:

• Employment application
• Driving record
• Medical certification
• Drug test results
• Training records

Maintenance Records:
We examine:

• Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
• Repair records
• Annual inspection reports
• Parts replacement history

Dispatch Records:
These reveal:

• Trip schedules
• Delivery deadlines
• Communications with the driver

Drug and Alcohol Tests:
We check:

• Pre-employment test results
• Random test results
• Post-accident test results

Building Your Case Against All Responsible Parties

In trucking accidents, multiple parties may share liability. We investigate and pursue claims against:

1. The Truck Driver: For direct negligence like speeding, distraction, or impairment
2. The Trucking Company: For vicarious liability and direct negligence like:
   • Negligent hiring
   • Negligent training
   • Negligent supervision
   • Negligent maintenance
3. The Cargo Owner/Shipper: For improper loading or hazardous cargo
4. The Loading Company: For improper cargo securement
5. The Truck Manufacturer: For defective components
6. The Parts Manufacturer: For defective brakes, tires, or other parts
7. The Maintenance Company: For negligent repairs
8. The Freight Broker: For negligent carrier selection
9. Government Entities: For dangerous road conditions

Catastrophic Injuries from Eastland County Trucking Accidents

The massive size and weight of 18-wheelers make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. Here are the most common severe injuries we see:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when the brain impacts the inside of the skull due to sudden deceleration or impact forces.

Symptoms:

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

Long-term consequences:

• Permanent cognitive impairment
• Inability to work
• Need for lifelong care
• Increased risk of dementia

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Spinal cord damage disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of paralysis:

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

Level of injury matters:

• Higher injuries (cervical spine) affect more body functions
• C1-C4 injuries may require ventilator support
• Lower injuries (lumbar) affect legs but not arms

Amputations

Amputations occur when limbs are severed at the scene or require surgical removal due to severe damage.

Common causes:

• Crushing forces from truck impact
• Entrapment requiring amputation for extraction
• Severe burns requiring surgical removal
• Infections from open wounds

Ongoing medical needs:

• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ each)
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Psychological counseling
• Home modifications

Severe Burns

Burns occur from fuel fires, chemical spills, or electrical fires.

Burn classification:

• First-degree: Epidermis only (minor)
• Second-degree: Epidermis and dermis (may scar)
• Third-degree: Full thickness (requires grafts)
• Fourth-degree: Through skin to muscle/bone

Long-term consequences:

• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Multiple reconstructive surgeries
• Chronic pain
• Psychological trauma

Internal Organ Damage

Internal injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.

Common internal injuries:

• Liver laceration or rupture
• Spleen damage requiring removal
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusion or collapse
• Internal bleeding

Calculating Your Damages in Eastland County

Texas law allows you to recover both economic and non-economic damages after a trucking accident. Here’s what you can claim:

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

• Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to injury and recovery
• Lost Earning Capacity: Reduction in future earning ability
• Property Damage: Vehicle repair or replacement
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation, home modifications, etc.
• Life Care Costs: Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

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

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence)

Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company acted with:

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

Texas punitive damage cap:
The greater of:

• 2x economic damages + non-economic damages (capped at $750,000)
• $200,000

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Eastland County Trucking Case

When you’re facing the trucking industry’s legal machine, you need a team with the experience, resources, and local knowledge to fight back. Here’s why Eastland County families choose Attorney911:

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. His federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas gives us the ability to handle complex interstate trucking cases that other firms can’t.

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurers operate. He understands their training, their software (like Colossus), and their strategies for minimizing claims. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

Proven Track Record in Eastland County

While we handle cases throughout Texas, we have particular experience with Eastland County’s courts, judges, and legal community. We know the local dynamics that can affect your case.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

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

• $5+ million for a traumatic brain injury case
• $3.8+ million for an amputation case
• $2.5+ million for a truck crash recovery
• Millions for families in wrongful death cases

Comprehensive Investigation Resources

We deploy immediately to:

• Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
• Download black box and ELD data
• Subpoena cell phone records
• Obtain police crash reports
• Canvass for surveillance footage
• Photograph the scene and vehicles
• Interview witnesses
• Hire accident reconstruction experts

Federal Court Capability

Many trucking cases involve interstate commerce and can be filed in federal court. Our federal court admission gives us access to this forum when it’s advantageous for your case.

Bilingual Services for Eastland County’s Hispanic Community

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español.

Contingency Fee Structure

You pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery – not your pocket.

The Attorney911 Process for Eastland County Trucking Cases

When you choose Attorney911, here’s what you can expect:

1. Free Initial Consultation

We’ll evaluate your case at no cost and explain your legal options. We’re available 24/7 to take your call.

2. Immediate Evidence Preservation

Within 24-48 hours, we’ll:

• Send spoliation letters to the trucking company and their insurer
• Demand immediate download of black box and ELD data
• Subpoena cell phone records
• Secure police crash reports
• Canvass for surveillance footage
• Photograph the scene and vehicles

3. Comprehensive Investigation

We’ll gather all critical evidence:

• ECM/black box data
• ELD records
• Driver Qualification File
• Maintenance records
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Dispatch records
• Cell phone records
• GPS/telematics data
• Dashcam footage
• Cargo records

4. Medical Care Coordination

We’ll help you:

• Get the medical treatment you need
• Document all injuries
• Follow up with specialists
• Keep detailed records of all medical care

5. Demand Letter and Negotiation

We’ll send a comprehensive demand to the insurance company calculating all your damages. We’ll negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement.

6. Litigation (If Necessary)

If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we’re prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to trial. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial – which creates leverage in settlement negotiations.

7. Resolution

The vast majority of cases settle before trial. When they do go to trial, we have the resources and experience to present your case effectively to a jury.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eastland County Trucking Accidents

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Eastland County?

Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner we start investigating, the stronger your case will be.

How much is my Eastland County trucking accident case worth?

Case values depend on many factors:

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

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.

Will my 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.

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’re less than 50% at fault, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

We investigate all potentially liable parties to ensure you can recover from someone. This may include:

• The truck driver
• The cargo owner
• The loading company
• The truck manufacturer
• The maintenance company
• The freight broker

How long does a trucking accident 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 I was partially at fault for the accident?

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

For example, if you’re found 20% at fault and your damages are $100,000, you would recover $80,000.

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. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery.

What if the trucking company’s insurance offers me a settlement?

Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries.

Can I access the trucking company’s safety record?

Yes. The 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.

Eastland County Trucking Accident Resources

Local Medical Facilities

• Eastland Memorial Hospital
• Local urgent care centers
• Specialists in Abilene or Fort Worth for serious injuries

Law Enforcement Agencies

• Eastland County Sheriff’s Office
• Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)
• Local police departments

Legal Resources

• Eastland County District Clerk’s Office
• Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)

Support Groups

• Brain Injury Association of Texas
• Texas Spinal Cord Injury Association
• Amputee Coalition of America

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Eastland County, time is critical. Evidence is disappearing every day. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect their interests. You need a team fighting for you.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to take your call. With offices throughout Texas and federal court capability, we have the resources to handle your Eastland County trucking accident case.

Remember: You pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery.

Don’t let the trucking company take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

“They treated me like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. 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

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