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

Every year, thousands of Texans are injured in collisions with commercial trucks on our highways. If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Erath County, you need to understand your rights and the complex legal landscape that surrounds these catastrophic incidents. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we know exactly how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different in Erath County

The roads of Erath County present unique challenges for commercial truck drivers. From the high-speed corridors of US-67 to the rural stretches of FM 8, our local highways carry a significant volume of truck traffic serving the region’s agricultural, manufacturing, and energy sectors. The mix of local traffic, farm equipment, and heavy commercial vehicles creates a dangerous environment where accidents can happen in an instant.

What makes 18-wheeler accidents fundamentally different from car accidents is the sheer scale of destruction they cause. A fully loaded commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds – more than 20 times the weight of an average passenger vehicle. When these massive vehicles collide with cars, the results are often catastrophic. In Erath County, we’ve seen firsthand how these accidents can change lives forever, causing traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, and wrongful death.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Erath County

Our experience handling trucking cases throughout Erath County has revealed several recurring causes of commercial vehicle accidents:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

The long stretches of highway in our region make Erath County particularly vulnerable to fatigue-related truck crashes. Despite federal regulations limiting drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, we routinely find that trucking companies pressure drivers to violate these rules to meet tight delivery schedules. The 30-minute break requirement after 8 hours of driving is often ignored, putting everyone on our roads at risk.

“The truck driver had been on the road for 14 hours straight when he fell asleep at the wheel on US-67 near Stephenville. His violation of federal hours of service regulations cost a local family their father. We held the trucking company accountable for their systematic disregard of safety rules.” – Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner

Distracted Driving

With the proliferation of smartphones and in-cab technology, distracted driving has become a major concern on Erath County roads. Federal regulations specifically prohibit commercial drivers from using hand-held mobile phones while driving, yet we frequently see cases where drivers were texting, using GPS, or communicating with dispatch when the accident occurred. The 20-40% longer stopping distance required by large trucks makes any moment of inattention potentially deadly.

Improper Maintenance and Brake Failures

The rural nature of much of Erath County means trucks often travel long distances between maintenance checks. We’ve handled numerous cases where poorly maintained brakes, worn tires, or faulty lighting systems contributed to accidents. Federal regulations require systematic inspection and maintenance of all commercial vehicles, but many trucking companies cut corners to save money.

Cargo Securement Issues

From agricultural products to industrial equipment, the diverse cargo carried through Erath County requires specialized securement. Improperly loaded or secured cargo can shift during transit, causing rollovers or spills that endanger other motorists. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) specify exact requirements for cargo securement, but violations are common.

Speeding and Aggressive Driving

The combination of tight delivery schedules and long, relatively empty stretches of highway in Erath County can encourage speeding. Large trucks require significantly more stopping distance than passenger vehicles, making speeding particularly dangerous. We’ve seen cases where truck drivers traveling at excessive speeds on US-281 or FM 8 couldn’t stop in time to avoid collisions.

The Devastating Injuries We See in Erath County Truck Accidents

The physics of truck accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm rather than the exception:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The extreme forces involved in truck collisions often cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull, resulting in concussions, contusions, or diffuse axonal injuries. These injuries can lead to permanent cognitive impairment, memory loss, and personality changes.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis: Damage to the spinal cord can result in paraplegia or quadriplegia, requiring lifelong medical care and dramatically altering the victim’s quality of life.
Amputations: The crushing forces in truck accidents can sever limbs at the scene or necessitate surgical amputation due to severe damage. Prosthetics and rehabilitation can cost millions over a lifetime.
Severe Burns: When fuel tanks rupture in collisions, victims can suffer third-degree burns requiring skin grafts, multiple surgeries, and extensive rehabilitation.
Internal Organ Damage: The blunt force trauma from truck impacts can rupture organs, cause internal bleeding, and lead to life-threatening complications.
Wrongful Death: Tragically, many truck accidents in Erath County result in fatalities. When negligence causes death, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims.

Who Can Be Held Liable in an Erath County Trucking Accident?

One of the most important aspects of trucking accident cases is that multiple parties can share responsibility. Unlike typical car accidents where usually only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve a web of companies and individuals who contributed to the dangerous conditions:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

Violating hours of service regulations
Driving while distracted or impaired
Speeding or reckless driving
Failing to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
Violating traffic laws

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

Trucking companies can be held liable through:

Vicarious Liability: The legal doctrine that makes employers responsible for employees’ actions within the scope of employment
Negligent Hiring: Failing to properly vet drivers’ backgrounds and qualifications
Negligent Training: Inadequate safety and operational training
Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance and compliance
Negligent Maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep and deferred repairs
Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service rules

Cargo Owners and Loading Companies

Third-party companies that load cargo can be liable for:

Improper cargo securement
Overloading vehicles beyond weight limits
Unbalanced load distribution
Failure to disclose hazardous materials

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for:

Defective brake systems
Faulty tires prone to blowouts
Defective steering mechanisms
Poorly designed safety systems
Failure to warn of known dangers

Maintenance Providers

Companies that service trucks can be liable for:

Negligent repairs that fail to fix problems
Failure to identify critical safety issues
Improper brake adjustments
Using substandard or incorrect parts

Freight Brokers

Brokers who arrange transportation can be liable for:

Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
Selecting the cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

The Critical Evidence We Preserve in Erath County Cases

In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears quickly. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. At Attorney911, we act immediately to preserve critical evidence before it’s lost forever.

Electronic Data That Must Be Preserved

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

ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, brake application, throttle position, RPM, and fault codes
ELD (Electronic Logging Device) Records: Documents hours of service compliance
GPS and Telematics Data: Shows real-time location, speed, and route history
Cell Phone Records: Can prove distracted driving
Dashcam Footage: Provides video evidence of the accident

“We sent a spoliation letter within 24 hours of being retained in a recent Erath County case. The trucking company had already attempted to download and potentially alter the ECM data. Our quick action preserved the original data, which showed the driver had been speeding and failed to brake in time. This evidence was crucial in securing a multi-million dollar settlement for our client.” – Lupe Peña, Associate Attorney

Documentation We Obtain Through Legal Process

Our investigation team works quickly to obtain:

Driver Qualification Files (proving hiring negligence)
Maintenance and inspection records
Hours of service logs (ELD data)
Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
Drug and alcohol test results
Previous accident and violation history
The physical truck and trailer for inspection

Texas Laws That Affect Your Erath County Trucking Case

Understanding Texas law is crucial to maximizing your recovery after an 18-wheeler accident:

Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly, and your case will be much stronger if we begin investigating immediately.

Comparative Negligence

Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means:

You can recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% at fault
Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
If you are 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything

For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault in an accident and your damages total $1,000,000, you would recover $800,000.

Damage Caps

Texas has a complex system of damage caps:

Economic Damages (medical bills, lost wages): No cap
Non-Economic Damages (pain and suffering): No cap for most personal injury cases
Punitive Damages: Capped at the greater of (2x economic damages + non-economic damages up to $750,000) OR $200,000

Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company acted with gross negligence or willful misconduct.

The Multi-Million Dollar Results We’ve Achieved

At Attorney911, we have a proven track record of holding trucking companies accountable:

$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 trucking-related wrongful death cases
$10 Million lawsuit filed in high-profile hazing litigation (demonstrating our ability to handle complex cases)

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved. The trucking company tried to lowball me, but Attorney911 wouldn’t let them get away with it.” – Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Erath County Trucking Case?

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic truck accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team with specialized expertise and a proven track record. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He has federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, which is crucial for handling interstate trucking cases. Our team has handled cases against major commercial defendants including Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS.

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.

“Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years inside the system. He watched adjusters minimize claims. He saw how they train their people to lowball victims. Now he exposes those tactics and uses his insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation.”

Comprehensive Investigation Resources

We have the resources to thoroughly investigate your case:

Accident reconstruction experts
Medical specialists to document injuries
Vocational experts to calculate lost earning capacity
Life care planners for catastrophic injuries
FMCSA regulation experts

Bilingual Services for Erath County’s Hispanic Community

Erath County has a significant Hispanic population, and we’re proud to serve this community directly. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our team includes Spanish-speaking staff members. We provide direct representation without interpreters, building trust and accuracy.

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

Personal Attention You Won’t Get at Big Firms

Unlike large billboard firms that treat you like a case number, we treat our clients like family. You’ll have direct access to your attorney, and we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” – Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

Proven Results in Complex Cases

We’ve handled some of the most complex trucking cases in Texas, including involvement in the BP Texas City explosion litigation – one of the few Texas firms involved in this $2.1 billion disaster case.

What to Do Immediately After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Erath County

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Erath County, time is critical. Here’s what you should do:

Call 911 and report the accident – Even if injuries seem minor, get medical attention immediately. Many injuries don’t show symptoms right away.
Document the scene – If you’re able, take photos and videos of:
- All vehicle damage (both your car and the truck)
- The accident scene, including skid marks and road conditions
- Your injuries
- The truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company information
- Any visible cargo or securement issues
Get witness information – Collect names and contact information from anyone who saw the accident.
Don’t give statements to insurance companies – The trucking company’s insurance adjuster will call quickly. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely decline to give a statement and tell them your attorney will be in touch.
Call Attorney911 immediately – The sooner we can begin our investigation, the stronger your case will be. We’ll send preservation letters to protect critical evidence.

The Attorney911 Process for Erath County Trucking Cases

When you choose Attorney911 to handle your trucking accident case, here’s what you can expect:

1. Free Initial Consultation

We’ll meet with you to discuss your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options. There’s no obligation and no upfront cost.

2. Immediate Evidence Preservation

We’ll send spoliation letters to the trucking company and all potentially liable parties, demanding preservation of all evidence. This includes:

ECM/Black Box data
ELD records
Maintenance logs
Driver qualification files
Cell phone records
Dashcam footage

3. Comprehensive Investigation

Our team will:

Obtain the police accident report
Interview witnesses
Work with accident reconstruction experts
Analyze electronic data from the truck
Review the trucking company’s safety record
Document your injuries and treatment

4. Medical Care Coordination

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

5. Demand Package Preparation

Once your treatment is complete, we’ll prepare a comprehensive demand package that includes:

All medical records and bills
Documentation of lost wages
Expert reports on future medical needs
Analysis of pain and suffering
Evidence of the trucking company’s negligence

6. Negotiation or Litigation

We’ll negotiate aggressively with the insurance companies. If they refuse to offer fair compensation, we’re prepared to take your case to trial. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, which gives us leverage in settlement negotiations.

7. Settlement or Verdict

The majority of cases settle before trial, but we’re fully prepared to go to court if necessary. When we win, we’ll ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible.

Common Questions About Erath County Trucking Accidents

How much is my trucking accident case worth?

The value of your case depends on many factors:

Severity of your injuries
Cost of medical treatment (past and future)
Lost wages and earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
Available insurance coverage

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical drivers – often $750,000 to $5 million or more. This means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, unlike in many car accident cases.

How long will my case take?

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 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 I was partially at fault?

Texas follows comparative negligence rules. 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.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Even if the driver owns their own truck, 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.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

We investigate all potential sources of recovery, including:

The trucking company’s insurance
Umbrella or excess insurance policies
Other liable parties (cargo owners, maintenance companies, etc.)
In some cases, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage

Can I handle my trucking accident case without a lawyer?

Technically yes, but it’s extremely risky. Trucking companies have teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim. Without legal representation, you’re at a significant disadvantage. Studies show that accident victims with attorneys receive significantly higher settlements, even after paying legal fees.

The Attorney911 Advantage: Why We Win for Erath County Clients

We Know Erath County’s Roads and Courts

We understand the unique challenges of trucking cases in Erath County. From the high-speed corridors of US-67 to the rural stretches of FM 8, we know the roads where accidents occur. We’re familiar with the local courts, judges, and procedures that will affect your case.

We Have Federal Court Experience

Many trucking cases involve federal regulations and can be filed in federal court. Our federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas gives us the ability to handle these complex cases.

We Speak the Language of Trucking

Our team understands the trucking industry’s unique terminology, regulations, and practices. We know how to read ELD logs, interpret ECM data, and analyze truck maintenance records. This expertise allows us to build stronger cases.

We’re Not Afraid of Big Trucking Companies

We’ve taken on some of the largest trucking companies in America:

Walmart trucking operations
Coca-Cola distribution vehicles
Amazon delivery trucks
FedEx trucks
UPS trucks
Various commercial trucking companies

We Offer Fluent Spanish Services

We Work on Contingency – You Pay Nothing Unless We Win

We understand that you’re facing medical bills and lost income. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis – 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.

Erath County Trucking Corridors: Where Accidents Happen

Erath County’s location in North Central Texas puts it at the intersection of several major trucking routes:

US-67: This major highway runs through Stephenville, connecting to I-20 to the north and San Angelo to the south. It carries significant truck traffic serving the region’s agricultural and energy industries.
US-281: Running north-south through the county, US-281 connects to I-35W and carries truck traffic between Wichita Falls and San Antonio.
US-377: This route connects to Fort Worth and Abilene, carrying truck traffic through the western part of the county.
FM 8: This farm-to-market road runs through the heart of Erath County, connecting smaller communities and carrying agricultural truck traffic.
FM 219: Another important route for local truck traffic, particularly agricultural vehicles.

The mix of high-speed commercial traffic and local vehicles on these roads creates dangerous conditions, particularly at intersections and during harvest seasons when farm equipment is on the roads.

The Urgency of Acting Now

If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Erath County, you must act quickly. Critical evidence is disappearing as you read this:

Black box data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days
ELD records may only be retained for 6 months
Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days
Witness memories fade significantly within weeks
Physical evidence may be repaired or disposed of
Drug and alcohol test results must be obtained quickly

The trucking company has a team working right now to protect their interests. You need a team working for you. At Attorney911, we send preservation letters within hours of being retained to protect this critical evidence before it’s lost forever.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Erath County, don’t wait. Every hour that passes puts your case at risk. Call Attorney911 now for a free, no-obligation consultation.

1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

Our Erath County trucking accident attorneys are available 24/7 to help you. We offer free consultations and work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.

“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 get away with negligence. Call Attorney911 today and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.