18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Edwards County: Protecting Your Rights After a Trucking Crash

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Edwards County, you need experienced legal representation to fight for the compensation you deserve. Trucking accidents are fundamentally different from car accidents – the injuries are more severe, the evidence disappears faster, and the trucking companies have teams of lawyers working to protect their interests. At Attorney911, we have over 25 years of experience holding trucking companies accountable for their negligence on Edwards County’s highways.

Why Edwards County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Edwards County’s unique geography and trucking corridors create specific risks for drivers. Our rural roads and proximity to major freight routes mean you’re sharing the road with massive commercial vehicles every day. The trucking corridors serving Edwards County – including US-277, US-377, and FM-503 – carry significant commercial traffic, increasing the risk of catastrophic accidents.

Many of these trucks are traveling long distances, with drivers pushing their hours-of-service limits to meet tight delivery schedules. The combination of fatigued drivers, heavy loads, and rural road conditions creates a dangerous environment for Edwards County families.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Edwards County

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

One of the most common causes of trucking accidents we see in Edwards County is driver fatigue. Federal regulations limit commercial drivers to:

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

Despite these regulations, many trucking companies pressure drivers to violate these rules to meet delivery deadlines. When drivers are fatigued, their reaction times slow, their judgment becomes impaired, and the risk of causing a catastrophic accident increases dramatically.

Our firm has seen cases where drivers falsified their electronic logging device (ELD) records to hide hours of service violations. In one notable case, we proved that a driver had been on duty for 20 consecutive hours before causing a fatal accident on US-277 near Rocksprings. The trucking company’s own dispatch records contradicted the driver’s ELD logs, leading to a significant settlement for the victim’s family.

Improper Cargo Loading and Securement

Cargo securement failures are another major cause of trucking accidents in Edwards County. Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) require that cargo be properly secured to prevent:

• Shifting that affects vehicle stability
• Spilling onto the roadway
• Falling from the vehicle
• Blocking the driver’s view

We’ve handled cases where improperly secured loads caused rollover accidents on FM-503, and cases where unsecured cargo fell from trucks and struck following vehicles. In one case, a truck carrying agricultural equipment lost its load on US-377, causing a multi-vehicle accident that resulted in traumatic brain injuries for several victims.

Brake Failures and Maintenance Neglect

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. In Edwards County, where trucks frequently travel on roads with steep grades and sharp curves, properly functioning brakes are essential for safety.

Federal regulations require:

• Systematic inspection and maintenance of all braking systems (49 CFR § 396.3)
• Driver pre-trip and post-trip inspections (49 CFR § 396.13)
• Annual comprehensive inspections (49 CFR § 396.17)

We’ve seen cases where trucking companies deferred brake maintenance to save money, leading to catastrophic accidents. In one case, a truck’s brakes failed on a steep descent near Vance, causing a runaway truck accident that resulted in multiple fatalities. Our investigation revealed that the trucking company had ignored multiple out-of-service orders for brake violations.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a growing problem among commercial truck drivers. Federal regulations prohibit:

• Using hand-held mobile phones while driving (49 CFR § 392.82)
• Texting while driving (49 CFR § 392.80)
• Engaging in any activity that distracts from safe driving

Despite these prohibitions, we’ve handled cases where truck drivers were using cell phones, eating, or interacting with in-cab technology at the time of accidents. In one case, a truck driver was watching a movie on his tablet when he rear-ended a vehicle on US-277, causing severe spinal injuries to the occupants.

The Devastating Injuries We See in Edwards County Trucking Accidents

The size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles means that trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. A fully loaded truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds – 20-25 times more than the average passenger car. This massive difference in weight and size means that when accidents occur, the occupants of the smaller vehicle typically suffer the most severe injuries.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Traumatic brain injuries are among the most common and devastating injuries we see in Edwards County trucking accidents. The extreme forces involved in these collisions can cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull, leading to:

• Concussions (mild TBI)
• Contusions (brain bruising)
• Diffuse axonal injuries (shearing of brain connections)
• Penetrating injuries

TBI symptoms may not appear immediately after the accident. Victims may experience:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory problems and confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes and emotional disturbances
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensory problems (blurred vision, ringing in ears)
• Speech difficulties
• Personality changes

In severe cases, TBI can result in permanent cognitive impairment, requiring lifelong care. We’ve represented clients who, after suffering TBI in trucking accidents, can no longer work, care for themselves, or even recognize their family members.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Spinal cord injuries are another common consequence of trucking accidents in Edwards County. These injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis:

The level of the spinal cord injury determines the extent of paralysis. Higher injuries (cervical spine) affect more body functions, while lower injuries (lumbar spine) primarily affect the legs.

We’ve represented clients who became paralyzed after trucking accidents on Edwards County roads. The lifetime costs of care for spinal cord injury victims can exceed $5 million, making it essential to pursue all available compensation.

Amputations

Amputations are a tragic but common result of trucking accidents. These injuries can occur:

• At the scene, when limbs are severed by the force of the collision
• During rescue operations, when limbs are trapped and must be amputated for extraction
• After the accident, when limbs are so severely damaged that surgical amputation is necessary

Amputations have profound physical and psychological consequences. Victims require:

• Initial surgery and hospitalization
• Prosthetic limbs (which can cost $5,000-$50,000+ each)
• Ongoing replacement of prosthetics throughout their lifetime
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Psychological counseling

We’ve represented clients who lost limbs in trucking accidents, helping them secure compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Severe Burns

Burn injuries are particularly common in trucking accidents involving:

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

Burn injuries are classified by degree:

Burn injuries require extensive medical treatment, including:

• Initial emergency care
• Skin graft surgeries
• Physical therapy
• Psychological counseling
• Treatment for chronic pain and infection risks

We’ve represented clients who suffered severe burns in trucking accidents, helping them secure compensation for their medical expenses and the emotional trauma of disfigurement.

Internal Organ Damage

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

• Liver lacerations or ruptures
• Spleen damage requiring removal
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusions or pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
• Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
• Bowel and intestinal damage

These injuries are particularly dangerous because they may not show immediate symptoms. Internal bleeding, for example, can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. We’ve represented clients who suffered internal injuries in trucking accidents, helping them secure compensation for their medical treatment and long-term care needs.

Wrongful Death

Trucking accidents in Edwards County too often result in fatalities. When a loved one is killed due to a trucking company’s negligence, surviving family members can pursue a wrongful death claim.

In Texas, wrongful death claims can be brought by:

• The surviving spouse
• Children (both minor and adult)
• Parents (if there is no surviving spouse or children)

Damages available in wrongful death cases include:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred before death
• Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

We’ve represented families who lost loved ones in trucking accidents on Edwards County roads, helping them secure justice and compensation for their devastating losses.

Why You Need an Edwards County Trucking Accident Attorney

After a trucking accident in Edwards County, you’re facing powerful opponents with vast resources. The trucking company, their insurance carrier, and their legal team will work aggressively to minimize or deny your claim. You need an experienced trucking accident attorney who knows how to fight back.

Immediate Evidence Preservation

One of the most critical aspects of a trucking accident case is preserving evidence before it disappears. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. Critical evidence can be lost or destroyed quickly:

At Attorney911, we act immediately to preserve evidence. Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we send formal spoliation letters to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence related to the accident.

Our 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

1. Immediate Spoliation Letters

   • Sent within 24-48 hours of being retained
   • Demand preservation of ECM/black box data, ELD records, maintenance records, driver files, and more
   • Create legal consequences for evidence destruction

2. Electronic Data Preservation

   • Engine Control Module (ECM) data
   • Event Data Recorder (EDR) data
   • Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
   • GPS and telematics data
   • Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
   • Dispatch communications and messaging
   • Cell phone records and text messages

3. Driver Records Preservation

   • Complete Driver Qualification File
   • Employment application and resume
   • Background check and driving record
   • Previous employer verification
   • Medical certification and exam records
   • Drug and alcohol test results
   • Training documentation

4. Vehicle Records Preservation

   • Maintenance and repair records
   • Inspection reports (pre-trip, post-trip, annual)
   • Out-of-service orders and repairs
   • Tire records and replacement history
   • Brake inspection and adjustment records
   • Parts purchase and installation records

5. Physical Evidence Preservation

   • The truck and trailer themselves
   • Failed or damaged components
   • Cargo and securement devices
   • Tire remnants if blowout involved

Our Unique Advantage: Former Insurance Defense Attorney

One of the most valuable assets we bring to your case is our associate attorney, Lupe Peña. Before joining Attorney911, Lupe worked for several years at a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims.

This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage in your case. We know:

• How insurance companies value claims
• How adjusters are trained to manipulate victims
• What makes them settle cases
• How they minimize payouts
• How they deny claims
• How their claims valuation software works

As Lupe explains, “I spent years on the other side, watching adjusters minimize claims. I saw how they train their people to lowball victims. Now I use that knowledge to fight for maximum compensation for our clients.”

Holding All Liable Parties Accountable

In trucking accident cases, 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 contributed to the dangerous conditions that caused the crash.

At Attorney911, we investigate all potentially liable parties to maximize your recovery. These may include:

The Truck Driver

The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable for their negligent conduct, including:

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

We pursue evidence including:

• Driver’s driving record and history
• ELD data showing hours of service
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Cell phone records
• Previous accident history
• Training records

The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets (highest insurance limits) and the most responsibility for safety.

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

• The driver was an employee (not an independent contractor)
• Acting within the scope of employment
• Performing job duties when the accident occurred

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent Hiring: Failed to check driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
• Negligent Training: Inadequate training on safety, cargo securement, hours of service
• Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance, ELD compliance
• Negligent Maintenance: Failed to maintain vehicle in safe condition
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations

We pursue evidence including:

• Driver Qualification File (or lack thereof)
• Hiring policies and background check procedures
• Training records and curricula
• Supervision and monitoring practices
• Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
• Safety culture documentation
• Previous accident/violation history
• CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores

Cargo Owner / Shipper

The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable for:

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

We investigate:

• Shipping contracts and bills of lading
• Loading instructions provided
• Hazmat disclosure documentation
• Weight certification records

Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo onto trucks may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, tiedowns
• Not training loaders on securement requirements

We investigate:

• Loading company securement procedures
• Loader training records
• Securement equipment used
• Weight distribution documentation

Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

The company that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for defects, including:

• Design defects (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement)
• Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

We investigate:

• Recall notices and technical service bulletins
• Similar defect complaints (NHTSA database)
• Design specifications and testing records
• Component failure analysis

Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for:

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

We investigate:

• Failed components for expert analysis
• Recall history for specific parts
• Similar failure patterns
• Manufacturing and quality control records

Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets may be liable for:

• Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
• Failure to identify critical safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard or wrong parts
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

We investigate:

• Maintenance work orders
• Mechanic qualifications and training
• Parts used in repairs
• Inspection reports and recommendations

Freight Broker

Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for:

• Negligent selection of carrier with poor safety record
• Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
• Failure to check carrier CSA scores
• Selecting cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

We investigate:

• Broker-carrier agreements
• Carrier selection criteria
• Carrier safety record at time of selection
• Broker’s due diligence procedures

Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

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

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

We investigate:

• Lease agreements
• Maintenance responsibility allocations
• Owner’s knowledge of driver history

Government Entity

Federal, state, or local government may be liable in limited circumstances for:

• Dangerous road design that contributed to the accident
• Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
• Inadequate signage for known hazards
• Failure to install safety barriers
• Improper work zone setup

Special considerations apply to government liability:

• Sovereign immunity limits government liability
• Strict notice requirements and short deadlines apply
• Must prove actual notice of dangerous condition in many cases

We investigate:

• Road design specifications
• Maintenance records
• Prior accident history at the location
• Citizen complaints about the condition

The Legal Process for Edwards County Trucking Accident Cases

When you choose Attorney911 to represent you after a trucking accident in Edwards County, we guide you through every step of the legal process:

1. Free Initial Consultation

We offer free consultations to evaluate your case. During this consultation, we’ll:

• Listen to your account of the accident
• Review any evidence you’ve gathered
• Explain your legal rights and options
• Answer your questions about the process
• Discuss our contingency fee arrangement (you pay nothing unless we win)

2. Immediate Evidence Preservation

As soon as we’re retained, we take immediate action to preserve evidence:

• Send spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties
• Demand preservation of ECM/black box data
• Subpoena ELD records
• Obtain police crash reports
• Canvass the accident scene for surveillance footage
• Photograph all damage and road conditions
• Interview witnesses before memories fade

3. Comprehensive Investigation

Our investigation goes far beyond what the police report covers. We:

• Retain accident reconstruction experts
• Analyze ECM and ELD data
• Review maintenance and inspection records
• Investigate the driver’s background and qualifications
• Examine the trucking company’s safety record
• Consult with medical experts about your injuries
• Calculate the full extent of your damages

4. Medical Care Coordination

We help ensure you receive the medical care you need:

• Connect you with appropriate medical providers
• Help arrange treatment even if you don’t have insurance
• Monitor your treatment progress
• Document the full extent of your injuries

5. Demand Letter

Once we’ve completed our investigation and you’ve reached maximum medical improvement, we prepare a comprehensive demand letter to the insurance companies. This letter:

• Details the facts of the accident
• Explains the legal basis for liability
• Documents all of your damages
• Demands full and fair compensation

6. Negotiation

We negotiate aggressively with the insurance companies to reach a fair settlement. Our approach includes:

• Rejecting lowball settlement offers
• Presenting strong evidence of liability
• Documenting the full extent of your damages
• Demonstrating our willingness to go to trial if necessary

7. Litigation (If Necessary)

If the insurance companies refuse to offer fair compensation, we’re prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to trial. Our litigation process includes:

• Filing the lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires
• Conducting aggressive discovery
• Taking depositions of the truck driver, safety manager, and other key witnesses
• Presenting expert testimony
• Building a compelling case for trial

8. Trial or Settlement

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

What Your Edwards County Trucking Accident Case Might Be Worth

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

• The severity of your injuries
• The extent of your medical expenses (past and future)
• Your lost wages and earning capacity
• The degree of the defendant’s negligence
• The available insurance coverage
• The impact on your quality of life
• Whether punitive damages are available

Unlike car accidents where insurance may be limited to $30,000-$100,000, trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits:

• $750,000 minimum for non-hazardous freight
• $1,000,000 for oil and large equipment
• $5,000,000 for hazardous materials

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.

Types of Damages Available

1. Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):

   • Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
   • Lost wages
   • Lost earning capacity
   • Property damage
   • Out-of-pocket expenses
   • Life care costs

2. Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life):

   • Pain and suffering
   • Mental anguish
   • Loss of enjoyment of life
   • Disfigurement
   • Loss of consortium
   • Physical impairment

3. Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence):

   • Available when the trucking company acted with gross negligence or reckless disregard for safety
   • Designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct

Recent Trucking Verdicts and Settlements

While every case is unique, recent verdicts and settlements demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

These verdicts show that juries are willing to hold trucking companies accountable for their negligence. Insurance companies know this, which strengthens our position in settlement negotiations.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Edwards County Trucking Accident Case

When you’ve been injured in a trucking accident in Edwards County, you need an attorney with the experience, resources, and dedication to fight for maximum compensation. Here’s why Attorney911 is the right choice:

25+ Years of Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. With over 25 years of experience handling trucking accident cases, Ralph has the knowledge and skills to take on even the most complex cases.

Federal Court Experience

Ralph is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for interstate trucking cases, which often involve federal regulations and can be filed in federal court.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

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

• $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
• $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement
• $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
• $2+ Million – Maritime back injury settlement

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims – and how to fight back.

Aggressive Evidence Preservation

We act immediately to preserve evidence before it disappears. Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we send spoliation letters demanding preservation of all critical evidence.

Comprehensive Investigation

Our investigation goes far beyond what the police report covers. We:

• Retain accident reconstruction experts
• Analyze ECM and ELD data
• Review maintenance and inspection records
• Investigate the driver’s background and qualifications
• Examine the trucking company’s safety record

Personal Attention

At Attorney911, you’re not just another case number. We treat our clients like family, providing personal attention and 24/7 availability. As one client, Chad Harris, said: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”

Proven Track Record

Our results speak for themselves:

• 251+ Google reviews with a 4.9-star average
• Multiple multi-million dollar settlements
• Involvement in major industrial disaster litigation (BP Texas City explosion)
• $10M+ active University of Houston hazing lawsuit
• Featured in major media outlets including KHOU 11, ABC13, and the Houston Chronicle

Local Knowledge

We know Edwards County’s trucking corridors, courts, and juries. Our local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case and negotiating with insurance companies.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation, so you never receive a bill from us.

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Edwards County

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

1. Call 911 Immediately

   • Report the accident and request medical assistance
   • A police report creates an official record of the accident

2. Seek Medical Attention

   • Even if you feel okay, get checked out by a medical professional
   • Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately
   • Medical records create documentation for your case

3. Document the Scene

   • Take photos and videos of:
     • All vehicles involved
     • Damage to your vehicle
     • The truck and trailer
     • Road conditions
     • Skid marks
     • Traffic signs and signals
     • Your injuries
   • Get contact information from witnesses

4. Collect Information

   • Get the truck driver’s:
     • Name
     • CDL number
     • Contact information
     • Insurance information
   • Get the trucking company’s:
     • Name
     • DOT number
     • Contact information
   • Note the truck’s license plate number

5. Do NOT Give Recorded Statements

   • Insurance adjusters will call you quickly
   • They work for the trucking company, not for you
   • Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim
   • Refer all calls to your attorney

6. Call an 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney Immediately

   • Critical evidence disappears quickly
   • We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
   • The sooner we get involved, the stronger your case will be

Frequently Asked Questions About Edwards County Trucking Accidents

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Edwards 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. Edwards County hospitals 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 in Edwards County?

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 Edwards 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 preservation 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 Edwards 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. If you’re found to be 50% or less at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened.

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
• 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 Edwards 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 Edwards 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 Edwards 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 Edwards 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.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Edwards County, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Every hour you wait, critical evidence is disappearing. Call Attorney911 now for a free consultation:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 https://attorney911.com

Our Edwards County trucking accident attorneys are available 24/7 to answer your questions and fight for the compensation you deserve. Remember, we work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.

“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

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