The Ultimate Guide to 18-Wheeler Accidents in Freestone County, Texas
Every year, thousands of families across Texas face life-changing consequences from 18-wheeler accidents. When these massive trucks collide with passenger vehicles on Freestone County’s highways, the results are often catastrophic. If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial truck crash in Fairfield, Wortham, Teague, or anywhere in Freestone County, you need experienced legal representation that understands both federal trucking regulations and the unique challenges of our local roads.
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims throughout East Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. With offices serving Freestone County and deep knowledge of the trucking corridors that pass through our region – including US-84, SH-14, and the distribution routes serving our local businesses – we’re prepared to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client
Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different in Freestone County
The physics of trucking accidents make them fundamentally different from car crashes. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds – 20-25 times more than the average passenger vehicle. This massive weight disparity means:
- Stopping distances increase dramatically (a truck at 65 mph needs nearly two football fields to stop)
- Impact forces are exponentially greater, causing more severe injuries
- The risk of rollovers, jackknifes, and underride collisions increases
- Multiple liable parties may be involved, from the driver to the trucking company to cargo loaders
Freestone County’s position along major freight corridors creates unique risks. Our rural highways see significant truck traffic serving the oil and gas industry, agricultural operations, and distribution centers. The mix of local drivers unfamiliar with truck blind spots and commercial drivers navigating tight schedules creates dangerous conditions on our roads.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Freestone County
Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations
Federal regulations limit commercial drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, with mandatory 30-minute breaks after 8 hours of driving. Despite these rules, fatigue remains a leading cause of trucking accidents. In Freestone County, we often see:
- Drivers pushing beyond legal limits to meet tight delivery schedules
- Falsified logbooks (though ELDs have reduced this practice)
- Companies pressuring drivers to violate hours of service rules
- Drivers working second jobs or long shifts before getting behind the wheel
FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 395 – Hours of Service regulations
Improper Cargo Loading and Securement
When cargo isn’t properly loaded or secured, it can shift during transit, causing:
- Rollovers on curves or during sudden maneuvers
- Lost loads that create road hazards
- Trailer instability that leads to jackknife accidents
- Overweight vehicles that can’t stop in time
Freestone County’s agricultural and oilfield industries create unique cargo challenges. Improperly secured farm equipment, pipes, or bulk materials can become deadly projectiles on our highways.
FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 393.100-136 – Cargo securement standards
Distracted Driving
Despite federal prohibitions, distracted driving remains a significant problem:
- Texting or using handheld devices while driving
- Using dispatch systems or GPS navigation
- Eating, drinking, or adjusting controls while driving
- External distractions like billboards or roadside activities
FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 392.82 – Prohibition on texting while driving
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Trucks traveling at excessive speeds are more likely to:
- Lose control on curves or wet roads
- Jackknife when braking suddenly
- Roll over during sharp turns
- Cause catastrophic damage in collisions
Freestone County’s rural roads with long straightaways can lull drivers into complacency, while the sudden curves and intersections require constant attention.
FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 392.6 – Speeding for conditions
Brake Failures and Maintenance Neglect
Poorly maintained braking systems are a leading cause of trucking accidents:
- Worn brake pads or shoes
- Improperly adjusted brakes
- Air brake system leaks or failures
- Contaminated brake fluid
- Overheated brakes on long descents
FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 393.40-55 – Brake system requirements
Drug and Alcohol Impairment
Despite strict testing requirements, some drivers operate under the influence:
- Prescription medications that impair driving ability
- Over-the-counter drugs with sedating effects
- Illegal substances
- Alcohol consumption
FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 392.4/5 – Drug and alcohol prohibitions
Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Freestone County
Jackknife Accidents
Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic. These are particularly dangerous on Freestone County’s two-lane highways where there’s no escape route for oncoming traffic.
Common Causes in Freestone County:
- Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
- Speeding on curves
- Empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing)
- Improperly loaded cargo
- Brake system failures
Underride Collisions
Underride collisions are among the most deadly trucking accidents. When a passenger vehicle slides underneath a trailer, the top of the car is often sheared off at windshield level.
Freestone County Underride Risks:
- Rear underride: When a truck stops suddenly and a following vehicle can’t stop in time
- Side underride: When a truck turns across traffic or changes lanes into a vehicle
- Poor visibility at night or in fog
- Missing or inadequate underride guards
FMCSA Requirement: 49 CFR § 393.86 – Rear impact guards
Rollover Accidents
Rollovers occur when a truck tips onto its side or roof, often resulting in:
- Spilled cargo creating additional hazards
- Multiple vehicle collisions
- Catastrophic injuries to truck occupants
- Highway blockages that cause secondary accidents
Freestone County Rollover Factors:
- Taking curves too fast (common on rural highways)
- Top-heavy loads
- Improperly secured cargo
- Overcorrection after running off the road
- High winds on open stretches
Rear-End Collisions
When an 18-wheeler strikes the back of another vehicle, the results are often devastating due to the truck’s massive weight and longer stopping distance.
Freestone County Rear-End Risks:
- Following too closely on highways
- Driver distraction
- Fatigue-related delayed reaction
- Brake failures
- Poor visibility in fog or rain
Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)
These occur when a truck swings wide to make a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing the vehicle that entered the gap.
Freestone County Wide Turn Hazards:
- Tight intersections in Fairfield and other towns
- Drivers unfamiliar with truck turning patterns
- Inadequate signage or warning lights
- Poorly designed intersections
Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)
Commercial trucks have four major blind spots:
- Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
- Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
- Left Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward
- Right Side No-Zone: Largest blind spot, extends from cab door backward
Freestone County Blind Spot Risks:
- Rural highways with no shoulders for escape
- Drivers unfamiliar with truck blind spots
- Inadequate mirror checks by truck drivers
- Lane changes without proper signaling
Catastrophic Injuries from 18-Wheeler Accidents
The extreme forces involved in trucking accidents often result in life-altering injuries:
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
TBI occurs when the brain impacts the inside of the skull, causing:
- Concussions (mild TBI)
- Contusions (brain bruising)
- Diffuse axonal injury (shearing of brain connections)
- Penetrating injuries
Symptoms:
- Headaches and dizziness
- Memory loss and confusion
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood changes and depression
- Sleep disturbances
- Speech difficulties
- Personality changes
Lifetime Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
Damage to the spinal cord can result in:
- Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
- Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
- Incomplete Injuries: Some nerve function remains
- Complete Injuries: Total loss of sensation and movement below injury
Lifetime Costs:
- Paraplegia: $1.1 million to $2.5 million+
- Quadriplegia: $3.5 million to $5 million+
Amputations
Amputations may be:
- Traumatic: Limb severed at the scene
- Surgical: Limb so damaged it must be removed later
Ongoing Needs:
- Initial surgery and hospitalization
- Prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000 each)
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Psychological counseling
- Home modifications
- Career retraining
Severe Burns
Burns in trucking accidents often result from:
- Fuel tank ruptures and fires
- Hazmat cargo spills
- Electrical fires
- Friction burns from road contact
Burn Classification:
- First Degree: Epidermis only
- Second Degree: Epidermis and dermis
- Third Degree: Full thickness (requires skin grafts)
- Fourth Degree: Through skin to muscle/bone
Internal Organ Damage
Common internal injuries include:
- Liver lacerations or rupture
- Spleen damage requiring removal
- Kidney damage
- Lung contusions or pneumothorax
- Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
- Bowel and intestinal damage
Wrongful Death
When a trucking accident takes a life, surviving family members may recover:
- Lost future income and benefits
- Loss of consortium (companionship)
- Loss of parental guidance
- Mental anguish
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses before death
- Pain and suffering before death
- Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Freestone County 18-Wheeler Accident?
Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple liable parties:
The Truck Driver
The driver may be liable for:
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Distracted driving
- Fatigued driving
- Impaired driving
- Failure to conduct proper inspections
- Violation of traffic laws
The Trucking Company
Trucking companies can be liable through:
Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):
- The driver was an employee acting within the scope of employment
Direct Negligence:
- Negligent Hiring: Failure to properly vet drivers
- Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
- Negligent Supervision: Failure to monitor driver performance
- Negligent Maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep
- Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate HOS rules
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 shipments
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 and bracing
Truck/Trailer Manufacturer
Manufacturers may be liable for:
- Design defects (brake systems, stability control)
- Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
- Failure to warn of known dangers
Parts Manufacturer
Companies that manufacture components may be liable for:
- Defective brakes
- Defective tires
- Defective steering mechanisms
- Defective lighting components
Maintenance Company
Third-party maintenance providers may be liable for:
- Negligent repairs
- Failure to identify critical safety issues
- Improper brake adjustments
- Using substandard or wrong parts
Freight Broker
Freight brokers may be liable for:
- Negligent selection of unsafe carriers
- Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
- Failure to check carrier safety records
Truck Owner (if different from carrier)
In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may be liable for:
- Negligent entrustment of vehicle
- Failure to maintain owned equipment
- Knowledge of driver’s unfitness
Government Entity
Government may be liable for:
- Dangerous road design
- Failure to maintain roads
- Inadequate signage
- Improper work zone setup
Special Considerations: Government liability is limited by sovereign immunity and requires strict notice requirements.
The Critical 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol
Evidence in trucking accident cases disappears quickly. At Attorney911, we act immediately to preserve critical evidence:
The Spoliation Letter
Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we send formal legal notices to:
- The trucking company
- Their insurance carrier
- All potentially liable parties
This letter demands preservation of:
Electronic Data:
- ECM/Black Box data
- ELD records
- GPS and telematics data
- Dashcam footage
- Dispatch communications
- Cell phone records
Driver Records:
- Complete Driver Qualification File
- Employment application
- Driving record
- Medical certification
- Drug and alcohol test results
- Training records
Vehicle Records:
- Maintenance and repair records
- Inspection reports
- Tire records
- Brake inspection records
Company Records:
- Hours of service records
- Dispatch logs
- Bills of lading
- Insurance policies
- Safety policies
Physical Evidence:
- The truck and trailer
- Failed components
- Cargo securement devices
- Tire remnants
Why This Matters
Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. Without immediate legal action:
- ECM data can be overwritten in 30 days
- ELD records may be retained for only 6 months
- Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days
- Surveillance video overwrites in 7-30 days
- Physical evidence may be repaired or destroyed
Legal Consequences of Spoliation:
- Courts can instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable
- Monetary sanctions may be imposed
- Default judgment may be entered in extreme cases
- Punitive damages may be awarded
FMCSA Regulations: Your Key to Proving Negligence
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations provide the legal framework for proving trucking company negligence. These regulations establish the standard of care that trucking companies must meet.
Part 390: General Applicability
Key Provisions:
- Defines who must comply with federal regulations
- Establishes definitions for commercial motor vehicles
- Sets general safety requirements
Applies to:
- All motor carriers operating CMVs in interstate commerce
- All drivers of CMVs in interstate commerce
- Vehicles with GVWR over 10,001 lbs
- Vehicles designed to transport 16+ passengers
- Vehicles transporting hazardous materials
Part 391: Driver Qualification Standards
Key Requirements:
- Minimum age: 21 for interstate, 18 for intrastate
- Must be able to read and speak English sufficiently
- Must be physically qualified (medical certification)
- Must have valid commercial driver’s license (CDL)
- Must pass road test or equivalent
- Must not be disqualified for violations
Driver Qualification File Must Include:
- Employment application
- Motor vehicle record from state licensing authority
- Road test certificate
- Medical examiner’s certificate
- Annual driving record review
- Previous employer inquiries (3-year history)
- Drug and alcohol test records
Part 392: Driving Rules
Key Provisions:
- § 392.3: No driving while ill or fatigued
- § 392.4: No drugs that impair driving ability
- § 392.5: No alcohol within 4 hours of driving
- § 392.6: No speeding for conditions
- § 392.11: No following too closely
- § 392.82: No texting while driving
Part 393: Vehicle Safety
Key Requirements:
- Brakes: Must meet specific performance standards
- Lighting: Must have proper headlamps, tail lamps, reflectors
- Cargo Securement: Must prevent shifting or spilling
- Tires: Must meet tread depth and condition requirements
- Coupling Devices: Must be properly maintained
Part 395: Hours of Service
Property-Carrying Drivers:
- 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off duty
- 14-hour on-duty window after coming on duty
- 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
- 60/70-hour weekly limits
- 34-hour restart to reset weekly limits
Part 396: Inspection and Maintenance
Key Requirements:
- Systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance
- Pre-trip and post-trip inspections
- Annual comprehensive inspections
- Record retention for 1 year
How We Build Your Freestone County 18-Wheeler Accident Case
Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)
- Accept your case and send preservation letters same day
- Deploy accident reconstruction expert to scene if needed
- Obtain police crash report
- Photograph your injuries and medical documentation
- Photograph all vehicles before they’re repaired or scrapped
- Identify all potentially liable parties
Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)
- Subpoena ECM/black box data downloads
- Request driver’s paper log books (backup documentation)
- Obtain complete Driver Qualification File from carrier
- Request all truck maintenance and inspection records
- Obtain carrier’s CSA safety scores and inspection history
- Order driver’s complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
- Subpoena driver’s cell phone records
- Obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules
Phase 3: Expert Analysis
- Accident reconstruction specialist creates crash analysis
- Medical experts establish causation and future care needs
- Vocational experts calculate lost earning capacity
- Economic experts determine present value of all damages
- Life care planners develop comprehensive care plans
- FMCSA regulation experts identify all violations
Phase 4: Litigation Strategy
- File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires (2 years in Texas)
- Pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
- Depose truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, maintenance personnel
- Build case for trial while negotiating settlement from position of strength
- Prepare every case as if going to trial (creates leverage in negotiations)
Freestone County Trucking Corridors: Where Accidents Happen
Freestone County’s position along major freight routes creates unique accident risks:
US-84: The East-West Freight Corridor
US-84 runs east-west across Freestone County, connecting Fairfield to Mexia, Teague, and beyond. This highway sees significant truck traffic serving:
- Oil and gas operations
- Agricultural shipments
- Distribution centers
- Local businesses
Common Accident Locations:
- Fairfield city limits (highway merges with local traffic)
- Intersection with SH-14 (heavy truck and local traffic mix)
- Teague area (industrial traffic patterns)
- Bridge crossings (reduced lane widths)
SH-14: The North-South Connection
SH-14 runs north-south through Freestone County, connecting to I-45 and serving:
- Local agricultural operations
- Oilfield traffic
- Commuters to Fairfield
- School bus routes
Common Accident Locations:
- Fairfield city limits (merging traffic)
- Intersection with US-84
- Rural stretches with limited shoulders
- Areas with poor lighting at night
Local Distribution Routes
Freestone County’s local roads see truck traffic serving:
- Oil and gas operations in the county
- Agricultural producers
- Local businesses in Fairfield, Teague, and Wortham
- School and government facilities
Unique Local Risks:
- Narrow roads with limited shoulders
- Unmarked intersections
- Railroad crossings
- School zones with mixed traffic patterns
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Freestone County Trucking Accident Case
25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience
Ralph Manginello has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998. Our firm has handled cases against:
- Walmart trucking operations
- Coca-Cola distribution vehicles
- Amazon delivery trucks
- FedEx trucks
- UPS trucks
- Various commercial trucking companies
Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics
Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working at a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies:
- Value claims
- Train adjusters
- Minimize payouts
- Deny legitimate claims
“Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years INSIDE the system. He knows exactly how insurance companies minimize trucking accident claims—and now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.”
Federal Court Experience
Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for:
- Interstate trucking cases
- Complex multi-party litigation
- Cases involving federal regulations
- High-value claims
Multi-Million Dollar Results
We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims, including:
- $5+ Million – Logging Brain Injury Settlement
- $3.8+ Million – Car Accident Amputation Settlement
- $2+ Million – Maritime Back Injury Settlement
- $2.5M – Truck Crash Recovery
Local Knowledge of Freestone County
We understand:
- The trucking corridors serving Freestone County
- Local court procedures and judges
- The unique challenges of rural trucking cases
- The economic factors driving local truck traffic
24/7 Availability for Trucking Emergencies
Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. We’re available 24/7 to:
- Answer your call immediately
- Send preservation letters
- Begin evidence collection
- Guide you through the critical first steps
Contingency Fee Representation
We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. This means:
- No upfront costs
- No hourly fees
- No risk to you
- We advance all investigation costs
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Freestone County
At the Scene
- Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out
- Document the Scene – Take photos and video of:
- All vehicle damage
- The accident scene and road conditions
- Skid marks and debris
- Injuries
- Collect Information – Get:
- Trucking company name and DOT number
- Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
- Witness names and phone numbers
- Responding officer’s name and badge number
- Avoid Discussions – Don’t:
- Admit fault
- Give recorded statements
- Discuss injuries or insurance
In the Following Days
- Follow Up with Medical Care – Attend all follow-up appointments
- Document Everything – Keep records of:
- Medical visits
- Symptoms and pain levels
- Missed work
- How injuries affect daily life
- Contact an Attorney – Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation
- Preserve Evidence – Don’t:
- Repair your vehicle
- Discard damaged items
- Post about the accident on social media
What NOT to Do
- Don’t Talk to Insurance Adjusters – They work for the trucking company, not you
- Don’t Sign Anything – Without consulting an attorney first
- Don’t Accept Quick Settlements – They’re almost always lowball offers
- Don’t Post on Social Media – Insurance companies will use your posts against you
- Don’t Delay Medical Treatment – Gaps in treatment hurt your case
Freestone County Trucking Accident Resources
Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers
- Freestone Medical Center (Fairfield)
- Limestone Medical Center (Mexia)
- Navarro Regional Hospital (Corsicana)
- Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Hillcrest (Waco)
- CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Tyler (Tyler)
Freestone County Law Enforcement
- Freestone County Sheriff’s Office
- Fairfield Police Department
- Teague Police Department
- Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)
Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)
- Freestone County Maintenance Office
- TxDOT Crash Reports: https://www.txdot.gov
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
- Carrier Safety Records: https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov
- Compliance Reviews: https://ai.fmcsa.dot.gov
Frequently Asked Questions About Freestone County Trucking Accidents
What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Freestone County?
If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Freestone County, take these steps immediately if you’re able:
- Call 911 and report the accident
- Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
- Document the scene with photos and video if possible
- Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
- Collect witness contact information
- Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
- Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately
How quickly should I contact an attorney after a truck accident in Freestone County?
IMMEDIATELY – within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence in trucking cases (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.
What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?
A spoliation letter is a legal notice demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. This includes ECM/black box data, ELD logs, maintenance records, driver files, and more. Sending this letter immediately puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.
What evidence 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
What are the most common FMCSA violations in trucking 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
How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Freestone 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.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Freestone 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.
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.
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 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. 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 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.
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 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.
What if the truck’s dashcam recorded the accident?
Dashcam footage is powerful evidence that can show:
- The truck driver’s actions before the crash
- Road conditions
- Traffic patterns
- The actual impact
- Driver behavior (distraction, fatigue, etc.)
We demand preservation of all dashcam footage immediately.
Can I get the truck’s GPS data?
Yes. GPS and telematics data can show:
- The truck’s route and speed
- Stops and duration
- Driver behavior patterns
- Compliance with hours of service
This data is critical for proving fatigue, distraction, or other violations.
What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
Bankruptcy complicates recovery but doesn’t necessarily prevent it. We investigate:
- All available insurance policies
- Corporate assets
- Related companies
- Personal assets of responsible individuals
How are future medical expenses calculated?
We work with medical experts and life care planners to:
- Project all future medical needs
- Calculate costs of future treatments
- Include costs of medications, therapy, and assistive devices
- Account for inflation and rising healthcare costs
What is loss of consortium?
Loss of consortium compensates family members for the loss of:
- Companionship
- Intimacy
- Household services
- Parental guidance
This claim is available to spouses and, in some cases, children or parents.
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)
What if road conditions contributed to my accident?
Government entities may be liable for:
- Dangerous road design
- Failure to maintain roads
- Inadequate signage
- Improper work zone setup
However, government liability is limited by sovereign immunity and requires strict notice requirements.
Can I sue for PTSD after a trucking accident?
Yes. PTSD compensation is available for:
- Flashbacks and nightmares
- Anxiety and depression
- Fear of driving
- Sleep disturbances
- Emotional distress
Documentation from doctors, psychologists, or therapists is required.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Texas follows modified comparative negligence. 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.
How do you prove the driver was fatigued?
We use multiple sources of evidence:
- ELD data showing hours of service violations
- ECM data showing erratic driving patterns
- Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
- Cell phone records showing no breaks
- Witness testimony about driver behavior
- Expert analysis of crash dynamics
What is the FMCSA and how does it help my case?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulates the trucking industry. FMCSA regulations establish the standard of care that trucking companies must meet. Violations of these regulations provide strong evidence of negligence.
Can I access the trucking company’s safety record?
Yes. FMCSA maintains public records at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain:
- CSA scores
- Inspection history
- Crash history
- Safety ratings
What experts do you use in trucking cases?
We work with:
- Accident reconstruction specialists
- Medical experts
- Vocational experts
- Economic experts
- Life care planners
- FMCSA regulation experts
- Trucking industry experts
How are wrongful death damages calculated?
Wrongful death damages may include:
- Lost future income and benefits
- Loss of consortium (companionship)
- Loss of parental guidance
- Mental anguish
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses before death
- Pain and suffering before death
- Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)
Don’t Wait – Call Attorney911 Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Freestone County, Texas, time is critical. Evidence is disappearing every hour. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect their interests – you need someone protecting yours.
“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client
Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our Freestone County trucking accident attorneys are available 24/7 to:
- Answer your questions
- Explain your legal options
- Send preservation letters to protect evidence
- Begin building your case immediately
We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. With 25+ years of experience and millions recovered for trucking accident victims, we have the knowledge and resources to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.
Your fight starts with one call: 1-888-ATTY-911
