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

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Falls County, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. The physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial burden can feel overwhelming. But here’s what you need to know: you don’t have to face this alone. Our Falls County 18-wheeler accident attorneys have been fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we’re here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different in Falls County

Every year, thousands of commercial truck accidents occur on Texas highways. But when these devastating crashes happen in Falls County, they present unique challenges and opportunities for victims. Unlike typical car accidents, 18-wheeler crashes involve:

Massive size and weight disparity – A fully loaded truck can weigh 20-25 times more than your passenger vehicle
Complex federal regulations – Trucking companies must follow strict FMCSA rules that don’t apply to regular drivers
Multiple liable parties – From the driver to the trucking company to cargo loaders, many entities may share responsibility
Higher insurance limits – Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million in coverage, meaning more compensation is available
Aggressive defense tactics – Trucking companies have rapid-response teams and experienced lawyers working to protect their interests

In Falls County, we see these accidents occurring on major routes like State Highway 6, US-77, and FM 413, as well as rural roads where truckers may be pushing their hours of service limits to meet delivery deadlines.

The Devastating Impact of Trucking Accidents

The injuries from 18-wheeler accidents are often catastrophic:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even a “mild” concussion can have lifelong consequences. Moderate to severe TBIs can leave victims with permanent cognitive impairment, personality changes, and the need for 24/7 care.

Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis. Quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs) and paraplegia (loss of function in the lower body) change lives forever.

Amputations: The crushing forces of a truck collision can sever limbs at the scene or require surgical amputation later. Prosthetics and rehabilitation cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Severe Burns: Fuel tank ruptures, cargo fires, and electrical malfunctions can cause third-degree burns requiring skin grafts and multiple reconstructive surgeries.

Wrongful Death: When a loved one is killed in a trucking accident, families face not only emotional devastation but also the loss of financial support and companionship.

The lifetime costs of these injuries can easily exceed $1 million, and that’s why it’s critical to have an experienced Falls County trucking accident attorney fighting for your full compensation.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Falls County

At Attorney911, we’ve handled hundreds of trucking accident cases across Texas, and we see the same dangerous patterns repeating in Falls County:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Truck drivers in Falls County often work long hours transporting agricultural products, manufactured goods, and other cargo through our region. The FMCSA limits drivers to:

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

When drivers violate these rules to meet tight delivery schedules, they become dangerously fatigued. Fatigued driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving – it slows reaction times, impairs judgment, and increases the risk of falling asleep at the wheel.

Improper Maintenance and Brake Failures

Brake problems are a factor in nearly 30% of large truck crashes. In Falls County, where trucks travel long distances between maintenance facilities, poorly maintained brakes can fail on our highways. We’ve seen cases where:

Worn brake pads weren’t replaced
Brake adjustments weren’t performed
Air brake systems had leaks
Brake components were defective

Cargo Securement Failures

Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable and more likely to roll over or jackknife. This is especially dangerous on rural Falls County roads where emergency response times may be longer.

Distracted and Impaired Driving

Despite strict regulations, we’ve handled cases where Falls County truck drivers were:

Texting or using hand-held phones while driving
Watching videos or using GPS devices
Under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Taking prescription medications that impaired their driving

Speeding and Aggressive Driving

Truck drivers under pressure to meet delivery deadlines may speed or drive aggressively. On Falls County’s highways, this can be particularly dangerous when trucks:

Follow too closely
Make unsafe lane changes
Fail to adjust speed for weather conditions
Take curves too fast

The Trucking Company’s Playbook – And How We Counter It

Within hours of an 18-wheeler accident in Falls County, the trucking company’s rapid-response team swings into action. Their goal? To protect their interests, not yours. Here’s what they do – and how we fight back:

They send investigators to the scene immediately

What they do: Take photos, interview witnesses, and start building their defense
How we counter: We deploy our own investigators to document the scene before evidence disappears

They try to get your recorded statement

What they do: Insurance adjusters call you, acting friendly, asking for your version of events
How we counter: We advise you not to give any statements without legal representation

They may “lose” or destroy evidence

What they do: ECM/black box data can be overwritten, dashcam footage deleted, maintenance records “misplaced”
How we counter: We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours demanding preservation of all evidence

They lowball your claim

What they do: Offer quick settlements that don’t cover your full damages
How we counter: We calculate your full damages, including future medical needs, and negotiate from strength

They blame you for the accident

What they do: Claim you cut them off, were in their blind spot, or caused the crash
How we counter: We gather independent evidence (witness statements, accident reconstruction) to prove what really happened

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Falls County Trucking Accident Case

When you’re facing the aftermath of an 18-wheeler accident in Falls County, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a legal team with specific experience fighting trucking companies. Here’s why Attorney911 is the right choice:

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998. He’s secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of the largest trucking companies in America, 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 – because he used to do it himself. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.

Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is critical for interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court.

Proven Results for Falls County Families

While we can’t guarantee specific results, we can tell you that Attorney911 has recovered:

$5+ million for a logging accident brain injury settlement
$3.8+ million for a car accident amputation settlement
$2.5+ million for truck crash recoveries
Millions more for families in wrongful death cases

Local Knowledge of Falls County

We understand Falls County’s unique trucking corridors, from the agricultural routes serving local farms to the major highways connecting our region to the rest of Texas. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.

24/7 Availability When You Need Us Most

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. When disaster strikes, you need a legal emergency lawyer who answers the call. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help you through this crisis.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This means you can get the legal representation you need without worrying about upfront costs.

The Evidence That Wins Trucking Accident Cases

In Falls County 18-wheeler accident cases, evidence is everything. Here’s what we pursue to build your strongest case:

Electronic Data That Doesn’t Lie

ECM/Black Box Data: These systems record critical information about the truck’s operation, including:

Speed before and during the crash
Brake application timing and pressure
Throttle position
Engine RPM
Cruise control status
GPS location

ELD (Electronic Logging Device) Data: Since 2017, most commercial trucks have been required to use ELDs that record:

Driver’s hours of service
Duty status (driving, on-duty not driving, off-duty)
GPS location
Driving time

This data can prove hours of service violations and driver fatigue – two of the most common causes of trucking accidents.

Driver and Company Records

Driver Qualification File: FMCSA regulations require trucking companies to maintain extensive records for each driver, including:

Employment application and background check
Driving record
Medical certification
Drug and alcohol test results
Training records

Missing or incomplete files can prove negligent hiring.

Maintenance Records: Trucking companies must keep records of all inspections, repairs, and maintenance. We look for:

Deferred maintenance
Known defects that weren’t fixed
Brake adjustment records
Tire replacement history

Dispatch Records: These documents show:

Trip schedules and deadlines
Communication between driver and dispatcher
Pressure to meet unrealistic delivery times

Physical Evidence

The Truck and Trailer: We inspect the actual vehicles involved for:

Brake condition and adjustment
Tire wear and damage
Lighting functionality
Underride guard condition
Cargo securement devices

Accident Scene Evidence: We document:

Skid marks
Road conditions
Traffic control devices
Weather conditions
Surveillance camera footage from nearby businesses

How Falls County’s Comparative Negligence Law Affects Your Case

Texas uses a “modified comparative negligence” system with a 51% bar rule. This means:

If you’re found to be 50% or less at fault, you can recover compensation
Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
If you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing

For example:

If you’re 20% at fault and your damages are $100,000, you recover $80,000
If you’re 51% at fault and your damages are $100,000, you recover $0

This is why it’s critical to have an experienced Falls County trucking accident attorney fighting to prove the truck driver’s fault. Insurance companies will try to blame you for the accident – we work to prove their driver was responsible.

The Types of Compensation Available in Falls County Trucking Cases

When we handle your 18-wheeler accident case in Falls County, we pursue full compensation for all your damages:

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs including:
- Emergency room treatment
- Hospital stays
- Surgeries
- Rehabilitation
- Physical therapy
- Prescription medications
- Medical equipment
- Home modifications
Lost Wages: Income lost due to your injuries and recovery period
Lost Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or working at all
Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle
Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, etc.
Life Care Costs: Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

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

Punitive Damages (In Cases of Gross Negligence)

Texas law allows punitive damages when the trucking company or driver acted with:

Gross negligence
Willful misconduct
Conscious indifference to safety
Fraud (like falsifying log books)

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

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Falls County

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Falls County, follow these critical steps:

Call 911 immediately – Report the accident and request medical assistance
Seek medical attention – Even if you feel okay, get checked out. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries
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 driver and company information – Record:
- Truck driver’s name and CDL number
- Trucking company name and DOT number
- Insurance information
- License plate numbers
Collect witness information – Get names and contact information from anyone who saw the accident
Do NOT give recorded statements – Insurance adjusters will call – don’t speak to them without legal representation
Call Attorney911 immediately – The sooner we get involved, the better we can protect your rights

The Timeline of a Falls County Trucking Accident Case

While every case is unique, here’s what you can generally expect:

Immediate Aftermath (First 48 Hours):

We send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
We begin gathering accident reports and witness statements
We deploy investigators to document the scene
We obtain initial medical records

First 30 Days:

We obtain ECM/black box data
We subpoena ELD records
We request the driver qualification file
We gather maintenance records
We begin calculating your damages

30-90 Days:

We continue medical treatment documentation
We consult with medical experts about your prognosis
We send demand letters to insurance companies
We begin settlement negotiations

3-6 Months:

If settlement isn’t reached, we file a lawsuit
The discovery process begins (interrogatories, depositions)
We continue building your case with expert testimony

6-18 Months:

Mediation and settlement negotiations continue
If no settlement is reached, the case proceeds to trial
Trial preparation intensifies

18-36 Months:

Trial occurs
Verdict is rendered
If successful, compensation is paid

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to court. This preparation strengthens our negotiating position and helps us secure better settlements for our clients.

Common Questions About Falls County 18-Wheeler Accidents

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

In Texas, you generally have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner we get involved, the stronger your case will be.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Even if the driver was an independent contractor, both the driver and the trucking company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from all responsible parties.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Yes, as long as you were 50% or less at fault. Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system, so your recovery would be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

We investigate all available insurance policies, including excess and umbrella coverage. Even if the primary company is bankrupt, there may be other sources of recovery.

How much is my trucking accident case worth?

Case values depend on many factors:

Severity of your injuries
Cost of your medical treatment
Impact on your ability to work
Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
Available insurance coverage

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical drivers – often $1 million or more. This means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to court. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to trial – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.

What if the truck driver was under the influence?

If the driver was impaired by drugs or alcohol, this significantly strengthens your case. We pursue both the driver and the trucking company for negligence, and punitive damages may be available.

Can I get the truck’s black box data?

Yes, but we must act quickly. This data can be overwritten within 30 days. We send preservation letters immediately to ensure this critical evidence is saved.

What if the trucking company claims I was in their blind spot?

Blind spot accidents are common, but truck drivers have a responsibility to check their mirrors before changing lanes. We use accident reconstruction and witness testimony to prove what really happened.

How long does a trucking accident case take?

Timelines vary:

Simple cases: 6-12 months
Complex cases: 1-3 years
Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

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

Recent Trucking Accident Verdicts and Settlements

While we can’t guarantee specific results, recent trucking accident cases demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

$462 million – St. Louis underride accident (2024)
$160 million – Alabama rollover case (2024)
$141.5 million – Florida trucking case (2023)
$730 million – Texas oversize load case (2021)
$150 million – Texas wrongful death settlement (2022)
$37.5 million – Texas trucking verdict (2024)

These verdicts show that juries are willing to hold trucking companies accountable for negligence, especially when they prioritize profits over safety.

The Attorney911 Difference: Fighting for Falls County Families

When you choose Attorney911 for your Falls County 18-wheeler accident case, you’re getting more than just legal representation – you’re getting a team that fights like your future depends on it, because it does.

Our 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

Within hours of being retained, we:

Send spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties
Demand preservation of ECM/black box data
Request ELD records
Subpoena cell phone records
Secure dashcam footage
Photograph the accident scene and vehicles
Interview witnesses before memories fade

Our Insurance Defense Advantage

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

Evaluate claims
Train adjusters to minimize payouts
Use recorded statements against victims
Pressure victims to accept lowball offers

This insider knowledge is your advantage in settlement negotiations.

Our Federal Court Experience

Our Local Falls County Knowledge

We understand the unique challenges of trucking accidents in Falls County:

The agricultural routes that see heavy truck traffic
The major highways connecting our region to the rest of Texas
The local courts and judges who may hear your case
The emergency response times in our rural areas

This local knowledge gives us an edge in building your strongest case.

Our Commitment to You

At Attorney911, we treat our clients like family. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a trucking accident takes on your life. Our team is here to:

Answer your questions promptly
Keep you updated on your case
Fight for your maximum compensation
Stand by you every step of the way

Falls County Trucking Corridors: Where Accidents Happen

Falls County’s location in Central Texas makes it a crossroads for commercial truck traffic. Some of the most dangerous areas for trucking accidents include:

State Highway 6: This major route sees heavy truck traffic transporting goods between Waco, Bryan-College Station, and beyond. The mix of local traffic and commercial vehicles creates dangerous conditions, especially at intersections.

US Highway 77: Running north-south through Falls County, this highway connects to major interstates and sees significant truck traffic. The rural nature of the road can lead to complacency among drivers.

FM 413 and FM 123: These farm-to-market roads see agricultural truck traffic hauling crops, livestock, and equipment. The combination of heavy trucks and rural driving conditions can be dangerous.

Intersection of SH 6 and US 77: This busy intersection in Marlin sees heavy truck traffic and can be particularly dangerous during peak travel times.

Rural Roads: Many trucking accidents in Falls County occur on rural roads where:

Trucks travel at high speeds
Drivers may be fatigued from long hauls
Emergency response times are longer
Road conditions may be substandard

The Trucking Companies We’ve Fought – And Beaten

At Attorney911, we’ve taken on some of the largest trucking companies in America and won. Companies we’ve successfully litigated against include:

Walmart – One of the largest private trucking fleets in the world
Coca-Cola – Beverage distribution trucks
Amazon – Delivery vehicles that often push hours of service limits
FedEx – Ground and freight operations
UPS – Package delivery and freight services
Swift Transportation – One of the largest truckload carriers in the U.S.
Werner Enterprises – Major interstate carrier
J.B. Hunt – Leading transportation and logistics company
Heartland Express – Long-haul carrier
Numerous regional and local carriers

When you hire Attorney911, you’re hiring a team that knows how to fight – and win – against these major corporations.

What Our Clients Say About Us

We’re proud of our 4.9-star rating on Google with over 250 reviews. Here’s what some of our clients have said:

“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

“One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
— Donald Wilcox, Attorney911 Client

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client

“Ralph Manginello is indeed the best attorney I ever had. He cares greatly about his results.”
— AMAZIAH A.T., Attorney911 Client

Call Attorney911 Today: Your Falls County Trucking Accident Lawyers

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

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you understand your rights.

Remember:

We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win
We advance all costs – no upfront expenses
We fight for maximum compensation – we don’t settle for less than you deserve
We treat you like family – because that’s what you are to us

Don’t let the trucking company push you around. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Our Falls County 18-wheeler accident attorneys are ready to fight for you.

“When disaster strikes, you need a Legal Emergency Lawyer™ who fights like your future depends on it—because it does.”
— Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner, Attorney911

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