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

When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Your Life Forever

The moment an 18-wheeler crashes into your vehicle, everything changes. One minute you’re driving down US-67 or FM-8 towards Stephenville, the next you’re fighting for your life as 80,000 pounds of steel and cargo crushes your car. The injuries from these accidents aren’t like typical car crashes – they’re catastrophic. Traumatic brain injuries. Spinal cord damage. Amputations. Wrongful death.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a trucking accident anywhere in Erath County – from Stephenville to Dublin, Lingleville to Thurber – you need more than just a lawyer. You need a legal team that understands the unique dangers of our local trucking corridors and knows how to hold trucking companies accountable.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. We know the trucking companies that operate in Erath County, from local agricultural haulers to national carriers passing through on US-67 and I-20. And we know how to make them pay.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We answer 24/7, and we’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence before it disappears.

Why Erath County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Erath County sits at a critical crossroads for Texas freight traffic. Our location creates unique risks:

US-67 Corridor: This major highway connects Stephenville to Fort Worth and beyond, carrying heavy truck traffic including livestock haulers, oil field equipment, and agricultural products from our local farms and ranches.
FM-8 and Rural Routes: These farm-to-market roads see significant truck traffic from local dairies, ranches, and agricultural businesses. The mix of large trucks and rural driving conditions creates hazards.
I-20 Access: While I-20 doesn’t pass directly through Erath County, our proximity means many trucks pass through on their way to and from this major east-west corridor.
Oil and Gas Traffic: Though not as intense as in the Permian Basin, we still see oil field trucking serving the region’s energy industry.
Agricultural Hauling: Erath County is home to major dairy operations and cattle ranches, generating significant livestock and feed trucking.
Local Distribution: Stephenville’s position as the county seat and economic hub means local delivery trucks serving businesses and institutions.

The trucking companies know these routes well – but they also know how to cut corners on safety. They push drivers to meet unrealistic schedules. They skip maintenance to save money. They hire inexperienced drivers and fail to train them properly. And when accidents happen, they have rapid-response teams ready to protect their interests – not yours.

That’s where we come in. We fight back.

The Most Dangerous Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Erath County

Trucking accidents in our county follow predictable patterns based on our local road conditions and traffic patterns:

Jackknife Accidents on Rural Highways

When a truck’s trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, it creates a deadly barrier across all lanes. On two-lane highways like US-67, this often means head-on collisions with oncoming traffic. These accidents frequently occur when:

Drivers brake suddenly on wet or gravel roads
Empty trailers swing more easily in crosswinds
Drivers take curves too fast
Brake systems fail

The wide-open spaces of Erath County might suggest safe driving conditions, but the reality is that our rural roads create perfect conditions for jackknife accidents. The long straight stretches encourage speeding, while the sudden turns and elevation changes catch drivers off guard.

Rollover Accidents on Farm-to-Market Roads

Our county’s network of FM roads sees significant truck traffic from agricultural operations. These roads often have:

Sharp turns that catch drivers by surprise
Steep grades that affect braking
Narrow lanes that don’t accommodate large trucks
Soft shoulders that give way under heavy vehicles

When trucks roll over on these roads, they often block both lanes, creating deadly obstacles for other drivers. The cargo – whether livestock, feed, or equipment – can spill across the roadway, causing secondary accidents.

Rear-End Collisions on US-67

Rear-end collisions are particularly dangerous when an 18-wheeler is involved. The physics are simple but devastating:

A fully loaded truck needs 525 feet to stop from 65 mph – nearly two football fields
Passenger cars need only about 300 feet
When a truck can’t stop in time, the impact is catastrophic

These accidents often occur at intersections or when traffic slows suddenly. The trucking company’s dispatchers may have pressured the driver to meet an unrealistic schedule, leaving no margin for error.

Wide Turn Accidents in Stephenville

In town, wide turn accidents are a particular danger. When trucks make right turns:

They swing wide to the left to avoid curbs and signs
This creates a gap that smaller vehicles try to enter
The truck then completes its turn, crushing the smaller vehicle

These “squeeze play” accidents often involve pedestrians and cyclists who don’t realize the danger until it’s too late. Stephenville’s downtown area, with its mix of trucks and local traffic, is particularly vulnerable.

Underride Collisions – The Most Deadly

Underride accidents occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath a truck’s trailer. The trailer often shears off the top of the smaller vehicle at windshield level, causing:

Decapitation
Catastrophic head and neck injuries
Wrongful death

Federal law requires rear underride guards on trailers, but many older trailers don’t comply. And there’s no federal requirement for side underride guards – despite their proven ability to save lives.

Tire Blowouts on Long Hauls

The extreme Texas heat causes tire blowouts, especially on long hauls through our county. When a steer tire (front tire) blows out:

The driver loses control immediately
The truck may cross into oncoming traffic
Debris creates hazards for following vehicles

Trucking companies often cut corners on tire maintenance to save money. They may run tires beyond their safe lifespan or fail to check inflation pressures regularly.

Brake Failures on Steep Grades

While Erath County isn’t mountainous, we do have significant elevation changes that affect truck braking. When air brake systems fail:

Drivers can’t stop on downhill grades
Runaway trucks gain speed rapidly
The results are often catastrophic

Brake failures are almost always preventable with proper maintenance. But trucking companies often defer brake adjustments and replacements to save money.

Cargo Spills on Rural Roads

Improperly secured cargo creates multiple hazards:

Shifting loads cause rollovers
Falling cargo strikes other vehicles
Spilled cargo creates road hazards
Hazardous materials create additional dangers

Agricultural products, oil field equipment, and other cargo common in Erath County require specialized securement. When loading companies cut corners, the results can be deadly.

If you’ve been hurt in any of these types of accidents in Erath County, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We know how to investigate these crashes and hold the responsible parties accountable.

Who’s Really Responsible for Your Injuries?

In a typical car accident, you might sue just one driver. But in trucking accidents, multiple parties may share responsibility:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

Speeding or reckless driving
Distracted driving (texting, using dispatch devices)
Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
Impaired driving (drugs or alcohol)
Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
Traffic law violations

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

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

Vicarious Liability:

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

Direct Negligence:

Negligent Hiring: Failed to check the driver’s background or qualifications
Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance or compliance
Negligent Maintenance: Failed to maintain vehicles in safe condition
Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate hours of service regulations

The Cargo Owner/Shipper

The company that owns the cargo may be liable for:

Providing improper loading instructions
Failing to disclose hazardous cargo
Requiring overweight loading
Pressuring carriers to expedite beyond safe limits

The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

Improper cargo securement
Unbalanced load distribution
Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for:

Design defects in vehicle systems
Manufacturing defects in components
Failure to warn of known dangers
Defective safety systems (brakes, stability control, etc.)

Parts Manufacturers

Companies that make specific parts may be liable for:

Defective brakes or brake components
Defective tires
Defective steering components
Defective lighting systems

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers 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

Freight Brokers

Brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
Failure to check carrier safety ratings

The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

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

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

Government Entities

In limited cases, government may be liable for:

Dangerous road design
Failure to maintain roads
Inadequate signage
Improper work zone setup

Our job is to investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 to start building your case.

The Evidence That Wins Trucking Cases

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

Black Box Data (ECM/EDR)

Every modern commercial truck has an Electronic Control Module (ECM) and Event Data Recorder (EDR) – the trucking equivalent of an airplane’s black box. This data can show:

Speed before and during the crash
Brake application timing
Throttle position
Whether cruise control was engaged
Engine RPM
GPS location
Fault codes indicating mechanical problems

This data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve it.

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Data

ELDs are federally mandated devices that record driver hours of service. This data proves:

Whether the driver violated federal rest requirements
How long the driver had been on duty
Whether the driver took required breaks
GPS location history

Driver Qualification File

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

Employment application and background check
Driving record
Previous employer verification
Medical certification
Drug test results
Training records

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

Maintenance Records

Trucking companies must maintain records showing:

Regular inspections
Repairs and maintenance
Brake adjustments
Tire replacements
Parts used

Poor maintenance records indicate deferred repairs and known defects.

Inspection Reports

Drivers must file reports on vehicle condition:

Pre-trip inspections
Post-trip inspections
Annual inspections

These reports can show whether drivers ignored known problems.

Drug and Alcohol Test Results

Trucking companies must conduct:

Pre-employment drug tests
Random drug tests
Post-accident drug tests

Failed tests or missing tests prove negligence.

Cell Phone Records

Cell phone records can prove:

Texting while driving
Phone calls while driving
Use of dispatch apps while driving

GPS and Telematics Data

This data shows:

Exact route taken
Speed throughout the trip
Hard braking events
Rapid acceleration events
Idling time

Dashcam Footage

Many trucks have cameras that record:

The road ahead
The driver’s behavior
The moments leading up to the crash

This footage is often deleted within days unless preserved.

Physical Evidence

We preserve:

The truck and trailer themselves
Failed components (brakes, tires, etc.)
Cargo and securement devices
Skid marks and debris patterns

Every hour you wait, evidence disappears. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 now to protect your case.

The Catastrophic Injuries That Change Lives Forever

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

When your head strikes the steering wheel, dashboard, or window, your brain impacts the inside of your skull. This can cause:

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

Lifetime costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between your brain and body:

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

Lifetime costs:

Paraplegia: $1.1 million to $2.5 million+
Quadriplegia: $3.5 million to $5 million+

Amputation

Crushing forces or entrapment often require surgical amputation. The ongoing needs include:

Initial surgery and hospitalization
Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 to $50,000+ each)
Replacement prosthetics throughout life
Physical and occupational therapy
Psychological counseling

Severe Burns

Fuel tank ruptures, hazmat spills, and electrical fires cause:

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

Burn victims often require multiple reconstructive surgeries and face permanent disfigurement.

Internal Organ Damage

The forces involved can cause:

Liver laceration or rupture
Spleen damage requiring removal
Kidney damage
Lung contusion or collapse
Internal bleeding
Bowel and intestinal damage

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

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can recover:

Lost future income and benefits
Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
Mental anguish and emotional suffering
Funeral and burial expenses
Medical expenses before death
Pain and suffering experienced before death
Punitive damages for gross negligence

If you’ve suffered any of these injuries in Erath County, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We have the experience to handle the most complex catastrophic injury cases.

How Much Is Your Erath County Trucking Accident Case Worth?

Case values depend on many factors, but trucking accident cases typically settle for much more than typical car accident cases because:

Higher Insurance Limits: Federal law requires minimum liability coverage of $750,000 for non-hazardous freight. Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more.
Multiple Liable Parties: We can pursue claims against the driver, trucking company, cargo owner, loading company, manufacturers, and others.
Severe Injuries: Trucking accidents cause catastrophic injuries that require extensive medical treatment and lifelong care.

Typical Settlement Ranges in Texas Trucking Cases:

Injury Type	Settlement Range
Soft Tissue Injuries	$15,000 – $60,000
Herniated Disc (Non-Surgical)	$50,000 – $200,000
Herniated Disc (With Surgery)	$346,000 – $1,205,000
Traumatic Brain Injury	$1,548,000 – $9,838,000+
Spinal Cord Injury	$4,770,000 – $25,880,000+
Amputation	$1,945,000 – $8,630,000
Wrongful Death	$1,910,000 – $9,520,000+

What Factors Affect Your Case Value?

Severity of Injuries: More severe injuries = higher settlements
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
Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress
Degree of Negligence: More egregious conduct = higher punitive damages
Insurance Coverage: Higher limits allow larger recoveries
Evidence Strength: Clear liability and documentation increase value
Jurisdiction: Some counties are more plaintiff-friendly

Don’t trust an insurance adjuster’s estimate of your case value. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, honest evaluation of what your case is really worth.

The Insurance Battle: How Trucking Companies Try to Cheat You

Trucking companies and their insurers have one goal: pay you as little as possible. They have teams of adjusters and lawyers trained to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows every tactic they’ll use against you.

Common Insurance Tactics and How We Counter Them:

Their Tactic	Our Counter-Strategy
Quick Lowball Settlement Offers	We never accept early offers. We calculate your full future damages first.
Denying or Minimizing Injuries	We obtain comprehensive medical documentation and expert testimony.
Blaming You (Comparative Fault)	We investigate thoroughly and gather evidence to disprove their claims.
Delaying the Claims Process	We file lawsuits to force discovery and set deposition dates.
Using Recorded Statements Against You	We advise clients NEVER to give statements without an attorney present.
“Pre-Existing Condition” Defense	We apply Texas’s “Eggshell Skull” doctrine – they take you as they find you.
“Gap in Treatment” Attacks	We document all treatment and explain any gaps with medical records.
Sending Surveillance Investigators	We advise clients on appropriate conduct and expose unfair surveillance.
Hiring “Independent” Medical Examiners	We counter with your treating physicians and independent experts.
Drowning You in Paperwork	We handle all communications and aggressively pursue resolution.

The Insurance Minimums That Protect You

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage for commercial trucks:

Cargo Type	Minimum Coverage
Non-Hazardous Freight	$750,000
Oil/Petroleum	$1,000,000
Large Equipment	$1,000,000
Hazardous Materials	$5,000,000
Passengers (16+)	$5,000,000
Passengers (15 or fewer)	$1,500,000

Many carriers carry much higher limits, giving you more potential recovery.

Don’t face the insurance companies alone. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We know how they work because we used to work for them.

Nuclear Verdicts: What’s Possible When Trucking Companies Are Held Accountable

Juries are increasingly willing to hold trucking companies accountable for their negligence. Recent verdicts show what’s possible:

Amount	Year	Location	Case Details
$730 Million	2021	Texas	Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman
$462 Million	2024	Missouri	Underride crash decapitated two men
$160 Million	2024	Alabama	Rollover left driver quadriplegic
$141.5 Million	2023	Florida	Nuclear verdict against defunct carrier
$90 Million	—	Houston	Truck driver burned in explosion
$37.5 Million	2024	Texas	Trucking verdict
$35.5 Million	—	Texas	Family injured in truck accident
$35 Million	2025	Fort Worth	Largest verdict in Tarrant County history

Why Juries Award Massive Verdicts:

Egregious Negligence: Companies that knowingly put dangerous drivers on the road
Pattern of Violations: Repeated safety violations ignored for profit
Evidence Destruction: Spoliation of records and black box data
Falsified Logs: Hours of service violations covered up
Corporate Culture: Prioritizing profit over safety
Human Cost: The devastating impact on victims’ lives

These verdicts show what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable. At Attorney911, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial – because insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to fight.

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Erath County

At the Scene:

Call 911 – Report the accident and request police and medical assistance
Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel okay, get checked out immediately
Document Everything – Take photos of:
- All vehicle damage
- The accident scene
- Road conditions
- Skid marks
- Your injuries
- The truck’s license plate and DOT number
- The trucking company name and logo
- Witnesses
Get Information – Collect:
- Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
- Trucking company name and contact info
- Witness names and phone numbers
- Police officer’s name and badge number
Don’t Admit Fault – Never apologize or say anything that could be interpreted as admitting fault
Don’t Give Statements – Politely decline to give recorded statements to any insurance company

In the Following Days:

Follow Up with Medical Care – Attend all follow-up appointments
Document Your Injuries – Take photos as they heal and keep a pain journal
Don’t Post on Social Media – Insurance companies will use your posts against you
Contact an Attorney – Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately
Preserve Evidence – Save all medical records, bills, and accident-related documents
Don’t Sign Anything – Never sign settlement offers or releases without consulting an attorney

The sooner you call us, the stronger your case will be. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Erath County Trucking Case?

1. We’re Trucking Accident Specialists

We don’t handle just any cases – we focus on trucking accidents. This specialization means:

We know the federal regulations that apply to trucking cases
We understand how to investigate and prove violations
We have experience dealing with trucking industry defendants
We know the tactics trucking companies use to avoid responsibility

2. We Have Insider Knowledge of Insurance Companies

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows:

How insurance companies evaluate claims
How adjusters are trained to minimize payouts
What makes them settle for full value
How to counter their tactics

This insider knowledge gives us an unfair advantage in your case.

3. We Have a Proven Track Record of Results

We’ve recovered millions 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
Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases

We don’t just talk about results – we deliver them.

4. We Have Federal Court Experience

Trucking cases often involve federal regulations and may be filed in federal court. Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, giving us the ability to handle these complex cases.

5. We Have the Resources to Fight Big Trucking Companies

Trucking cases require significant resources:

Accident reconstruction experts
Medical experts
Vocational experts
Life care planners
FMCSA regulation experts
Product liability experts

We have the financial resources and professional network to build the strongest possible case for you.

6. We Offer Fluent Spanish Services

Many trucking accident victims in Erath County speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

7. We Treat You Like Family

Our clients consistently tell us we treat them like family:

“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

8. We Work on Contingency – You Pay Nothing Unless We Win

We believe everyone deserves access to justice, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we work on contingency:

No upfront fees
No hourly charges
No costs unless we win
Our fee comes from the settlement, not your pocket

If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Erath County Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after a trucking accident in Erath County?

Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene, get the truck driver’s and company’s information, collect witness contact information, and call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. Evidence disappears fast in trucking cases – we’ll send a preservation letter within hours to protect your rights.

Should I go to the hospital even if I feel okay?

YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Erath County Medical Center in Stephenville and other local 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 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?

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 Erath County?

Multiple parties may be liable:

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 as long as you were less than 50% responsible. 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 Erath 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 Erath 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 Erath 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 Erath 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.

What if the trucking company 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. Let us evaluate any offer before you consider accepting.

How much insurance do trucking companies carry?

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:

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

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.

What if multiple insurance policies apply to my accident?

Trucking cases often involve multiple policies:

Motor carrier’s liability policy
Trailer interchange coverage
Cargo insurance
Owner-operator’s policy
Excess/umbrella coverage

We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.

Will the trucking company’s insurance try to settle quickly?

Often yes – and that’s a red flag. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can recover damages as long as you were less than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, you would recover 80% of your damages.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

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 cargo spills create liability?

Improperly secured cargo can:

Shift during transit, causing rollovers
Fall from the truck, striking other vehicles
Create road hazards for following vehicles
Release hazardous materials

The cargo owner, loading company, and trucking company may all share liability.

What if a tire blowout caused my accident?

Tire blowouts are often preventable with proper maintenance. We investigate:

Tire maintenance records
Tire age and wear
Vehicle weight
Loading practices
Road conditions

The trucking company, tire manufacturer, or maintenance provider may be liable.

How do brake failures get investigated?

Brake failures are almost always preventable with proper maintenance. We investigate:

Brake inspection and adjustment records
Maintenance logs
Driver inspection reports
Out-of-service violations
Brake system design and manufacturing

The trucking company, brake manufacturer, or maintenance provider may be liable.

What if the truck’s dashcam recorded the accident?

Dashcam footage can be powerful evidence. We demand preservation of all video evidence immediately. This footage can show:

The moments leading up to the crash
Driver behavior
Road conditions
Traffic patterns

Can I get the truck’s GPS data?

YES. GPS and telematics data can show:

The exact route taken
Speed throughout the trip
Hard braking events
Rapid acceleration events
Idling time

This data can prove speeding, fatigue, or other violations.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, their insurance coverage should still be available to compensate you. We pursue all available insurance policies to ensure you receive fair compensation.

How are future medical expenses calculated?

We work with medical experts and life care planners to:

Document your current medical needs
Project future treatment requirements
Calculate the cost of future care
Account for inflation and rising medical costs

This comprehensive approach ensures you receive compensation for all your future medical needs.

What is loss of consortium?

Loss of consortium refers to the impact of your injuries on your relationship with your spouse. This can include:

Loss of companionship
Loss of affection
Loss of sexual relations
Loss of household services

Your spouse may have a separate claim for these damages.

When are punitive damages available?

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

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

Punitive damages are designed to punish wrongdoers and deter similar conduct.

How do you prove the driver was fatigued?

We use multiple sources of evidence:

ELD data showing hours of service violations
Dispatch records showing unrealistic schedules
Cell phone records showing late-night activity
Witness testimony about driver behavior
Truck stop receipts showing activity during rest periods
Surveillance footage from truck stops or businesses

What is the FMCSA and how does it help my case?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the trucking industry. Their regulations establish the standard of care for trucking companies and drivers. Violations of these regulations can prove negligence in your case.

Can I access the trucking company’s safety record?

YES. 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 experts do you use in trucking cases?

We work with:

Accident reconstruction experts
Medical experts
Vocational experts
Life care planners
FMCSA regulation experts
Economists
Trucking industry experts
Product liability experts

These experts help us build the strongest possible case for you.

How are wrongful death damages calculated?

Wrongful death damages include:

Lost future income and benefits
Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
Mental anguish and emotional suffering
Funeral and burial expenses
Medical expenses before death
Pain and suffering experienced before death
Punitive damages for gross negligence

We work with economists and life care planners to calculate these damages accurately.

What happens if there’s not enough insurance?

If the at-fault party doesn’t have enough insurance, we explore:

Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
Other liable parties (cargo owner, loading company, etc.)
Excess or umbrella policies
The trucking company’s assets

We leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of full compensation.

The Attorney911 Difference: Why We’re the Right Choice for Your Erath County Trucking Case

1. We Know Erath County

We’re not just Texas attorneys – we understand Erath County. We know:

The trucking corridors that serve our community
The local courts and judges
The unique challenges of rural trucking accidents
The agricultural and oil field trucking that dominates our local industry
The mix of local traffic and through traffic on our highways

This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.

2. We Have Insider Knowledge of Insurance Companies

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows:

How insurance companies evaluate claims
How adjusters are trained to minimize payouts
What makes them settle for full value
How to counter their tactics

This insider knowledge gives us an unfair advantage in your case.

3. We Have a Proven Track Record of Results

We don’t just talk about results – we deliver them:

$5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
$3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement
$2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
$2+ Million – Maritime back injury settlement
Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases

Our results speak for themselves.

4. We Have the Resources to Fight Big Trucking Companies

Trucking cases require significant resources:

Accident reconstruction experts
Medical experts
Vocational experts
Life care planners
FMCSA regulation experts
Product liability experts

We have the financial resources and professional network to build the strongest possible case for you.

5. We Offer Fluent Spanish Services

Many trucking accident victims in Erath County speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

6. We Treat You Like Family

Our clients consistently tell us we treat them like family:

“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

7. We Work on Contingency – You Pay Nothing Unless We Win

We believe everyone deserves access to justice, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we work on contingency:

No upfront fees
No hourly charges
No costs unless we win
Our fee comes from the settlement, not your pocket

If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing.

8. We’re Available 24/7

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. That’s why we’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When you call, we answer.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We answer 24/7, and we’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence before it disappears.

Your Next Steps: What to Do Right Now

Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 – We answer 24/7. The sooner you call, the stronger your case will be.
Don’t Talk to Insurance Companies – Never give recorded statements without consulting an attorney first.
Follow Up with Medical Care – Attend all follow-up appointments and document your injuries.
Don’t Post on Social Media – Insurance companies will use your posts against you.
Save All Evidence – Keep all medical records, bills, and accident-related documents.
Don’t Sign Anything – Never sign settlement offers or releases without consulting an attorney.

Remember: Every hour you wait, evidence disappears. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now to protect your rights.

The Attorney911 Promise

When you choose Attorney911 for your Erath County trucking accident case, you’re getting:

✅ 25+ Years of Experience – We’ve been fighting trucking companies since 1998
✅ Federal Court Experience – We can handle the most complex cases
✅ Insider Knowledge – We know how insurance companies work because we used to work for them
✅ Multi-Million Dollar Results – We have a proven track record of success
✅ Fluent Spanish Services – Hablamos Español
✅ 24/7 Availability – We answer when you need us
✅ Contingency Fee – You pay nothing unless we win
✅ Local Knowledge – We know Erath County and its trucking corridors
✅ Compassionate Representation – We treat you like family

If you’ve been hurt in a trucking accident in Erath County, you need Attorney911. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now for your free consultation.