18-Wheeler Accidents in Gaines County: Your Guide to Justice and Compensation

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Gaines 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 you don’t have to face this alone. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims across West Texas for over 25 years, and we’re ready to stand by your side.

Why Gaines County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Gaines County’s unique geography and economy create specific trucking accident risks. Our county sits at the crossroads of major oil and gas transportation routes, with heavy truck traffic serving the Permian Basin energy sector. The combination of long-haul truckers pushing their hours, local agricultural transport, and the demanding terrain creates a dangerous mix on our highways.

The trucking corridors serving Gaines County include:

• US-62/180 – The primary east-west route carrying oilfield equipment and agricultural products
• US-385 – A critical north-south corridor connecting to the Permian Basin
• FM roads – Where local truck traffic intersects with passenger vehicles
• Oilfield access roads – Often poorly maintained and crowded with heavy equipment

These routes see a constant flow of oversized loads, tanker trucks carrying hazardous materials, and fatigued drivers working long hours to meet tight deadlines. When accidents happen here, they’re often catastrophic.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Crashes

Every year, thousands of Americans are killed or seriously injured in commercial truck accidents. The statistics are sobering:

• 5,100+ people die in truck crashes annually in the United States
• 125,000+ people are injured each year in trucking accidents
• 76% of fatalities are occupants of the smaller vehicle, not the truck
• 18-wheelers are 20-25 times heavier than passenger vehicles
• A fully loaded truck traveling at 65 mph needs 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields

In Gaines County, we see these statistics come to life far too often. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks mean that when accidents happen, the results are often life-altering or fatal.

Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Gaines County

Our firm has handled virtually every type of trucking accident that occurs in Gaines County. Some of the most common – and most dangerous – include:

Jackknife Accidents

These terrifying crashes occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic. On Gaines County’s highways, jackknifes frequently result from:

• Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
• Speeding on curves or downhill grades
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers that swing more easily
• Brake system failures or improper maintenance

Rollover Accidents

With Gaines County’s mix of rural highways and oilfield access roads, rollover accidents are particularly common. These often happen when:

• Trucks take curves too fast (especially on FM roads)
• Cargo shifts during transport
• Drivers overcorrect after running off the road
• Liquid cargo “sloshes” and destabilizes the truck

Underride Collisions

Among the most deadly trucking accidents, underrides occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer. In Gaines County, we see:

• Rear underrides when trucks stop suddenly on highways
• Side underrides during lane changes or wide turns
• Fatalities from shearing off the passenger compartment

Rear-End Collisions

With oilfield traffic and agricultural transport, Gaines County sees many rear-end collisions where trucks fail to stop in time. These are often caused by:

• Following too closely on US-62/180
• Driver fatigue during long hauls
• Brake failures from poor maintenance
• Distracted driving (cell phones, dispatch communications)

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Especially dangerous in Gaines County’s smaller towns and at rural intersections, these occur when:

• Trucks swing wide to make right turns
• Passenger vehicles try to pass on the right
• Trucks cut corners at intersections
• Poor visibility due to dust or darkness

Tire Blowouts

Gaines County’s extreme heat and long stretches of highway make tire blowouts a significant hazard. Blowouts often result from:

• Underinflated tires overheating
• Overloaded vehicles exceeding tire capacity
• Worn or aged tires not replaced
• Road debris punctures

Brake Failures

With the heavy loads and demanding terrain in our area, brake failures are a serious concern. These typically stem from:

• Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
• Improper brake adjustments
• Air brake system leaks
• Overheated brakes on long descents

Cargo Spills and Shifts

Gaines County’s agricultural and oilfield industries create unique cargo hazards:

• Improperly secured oilfield equipment
• Shifting grain or produce loads
• Liquid cargo sloshing in tankers
• Hazardous materials spills

Who’s Really Responsible for Your Injuries?

One of the most important things to understand about 18-wheeler accidents is that multiple parties may be liable for your injuries. Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve a web of companies and individuals who all contributed to the dangerous conditions.

At Attorney911, we thoroughly investigate every potential defendant to maximize your recovery. In Gaines County trucking cases, we typically pursue claims against:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, dispatch communications)
• 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)

Trucking companies are often the most important defendants because they have the deepest pockets and highest insurance limits. They can be liable for:

Vicarious Liability:

• The driver was an employee (not independent contractor)
• 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 or operational 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 or Shipper

The company that owns the cargo may be liable for:

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous cargo
• Requiring overweight loads
• Pressuring carriers to meet unrealistic deadlines

The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies can be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement (violating FMCSA regulations)
• 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 truck or trailer systems
• Manufacturing defects in components
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective safety systems (brakes, stability control, etc.)

Parts Manufacturers

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

• Defective brake components
• Defective tires causing blowouts
• Defective steering mechanisms
• Defective lighting components

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
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Freight Brokers

Freight brokers who arrange transportation can be liable for:

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

The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

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

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

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, government agencies may be liable for:

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

The Critical Evidence in Your Gaines County Trucking Case

Trucking accident cases are won or lost based on the evidence. Unlike car accidents, commercial trucking cases involve specialized evidence that must be preserved quickly before it disappears. At Attorney911, we act immediately to secure this critical evidence.

Electronic Data: The Truck’s “Black Box”

Commercial trucks have sophisticated electronic systems that record operational data – similar to an airplane’s black box. This data is often the most important evidence in your case, but it can be overwritten or deleted quickly.

Types of Electronic Evidence We Preserve:

Critical Data Points We Recover:

• Speed Before Crash: Proves speeding or excessive speed for conditions
• Brake Application: Shows when and how hard brakes were applied
• Throttle Position: Reveals if driver was accelerating or coasting
• Following Distance: Calculated from speed and deceleration data
• Hours of Service: Proves fatigue and HOS violations
• GPS Location: Confirms route and timing
• Fault Codes: May reveal known mechanical issues the driver ignored

The Driver Qualification File

Federal regulations require trucking companies to maintain a complete file for every driver. This file can reveal critical evidence of negligent hiring or supervision.

What We Look For in the Driver Qualification File:

• Employment application and resume
• Driving record check (MVR)
• Previous employer verification (3-year history)
• Medical certification and exam records
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training documentation
• Previous accident and violation history
• Performance reviews and disciplinary records

Maintenance and Inspection Records

Proper maintenance is critical for truck safety. We obtain:

• Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
• Annual inspection records
• Maintenance work orders
• Brake inspection and adjustment records
• Tire replacement history
• Parts purchase records
• Out-of-service orders and repairs

Hours of Service Records

Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents. We obtain:

• ELD data showing exact driving times
• Paper log books (if used)
• Dispatch records showing trip schedules
• Fuel receipts and toll records
• Hotel receipts and meal records

Cargo Documentation

Cargo-related issues often cause accidents. We obtain:

• Bills of lading
• Cargo manifests
• Loading instructions
• Securement documentation
• Weight certificates
• Hazmat disclosure forms

Physical Evidence

We preserve and analyze:

• The truck and trailer themselves
• Failed or damaged components
• Cargo and securement devices
• Tire remnants (if blowout involved)
• Roadway evidence (skid marks, debris patterns)

Why You Need to Act Immediately

Time is NOT on your side after a trucking accident. Evidence disappears quickly, and trucking companies move fast to protect their interests. Here’s what happens in the critical first 48 hours:

What the Trucking Company Does:

• Dispatches rapid-response investigators to the scene
• Downloads and preserves electronic data (for their benefit)
• Interviews the driver and witnesses (to shape their story)
• Begins preparing their legal defense
• Contacts their insurance company to minimize liability

What You Need to Do:

• Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911
• We send a spoliation letter within 24-48 hours demanding preservation of all evidence
• We deploy our investigation team to secure evidence before it’s lost
• We preserve the scene through photographs, measurements, and documentation
• We identify all liable parties to maximize your recovery

Critical Timelines:

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Gaines County Trucking Cases

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. The size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles means that when accidents happen, the consequences are often life-altering.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In trucking accidents, the extreme forces cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull.

Severity Levels:

Lifetime Care Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of Paralysis:

Level of Injury Matters:

• Higher injuries (cervical spine) affect more body functions
• C1-C4 injuries may require ventilator for breathing
• Lower injuries (lumbar) affect legs but not arms

Lifetime Care Costs:

• Paraplegia (low): $1.1 million+
• Paraplegia (high): $2.5 million+
• Quadriplegia (low): $3.5 million+
• Quadriplegia (high): $5 million+

Amputation

Amputations occur when limbs are severed at the scene or must be surgically removed due to severe damage.

Common in Gaines County Trucking Accidents Due To:

• Crushing forces from truck impact
• Entrapment requiring amputation for extraction
• Severe burns requiring surgical removal
• Infections from open wounds

Ongoing Medical Needs:

• Initial surgery and hospitalization
• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ per prosthetic)
• Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Occupational therapy for daily living skills
• Psychological counseling

Severe Burns

Burns occur from fuel tank ruptures, hazmat cargo spills, electrical fires, and friction burns.

Burn Classification:

Long-Term Consequences:

• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Multiple reconstructive surgeries
• Skin graft procedures
• Chronic pain
• Infection risks
• Psychological trauma

Internal Organ Damage

The extreme forces in trucking accidents often cause internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent.

Common Internal Injuries:

• Liver laceration or rupture
• Spleen damage requiring removal
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusion or collapse (pneumothorax)
• Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
• Bowel and intestinal damage

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members may bring a wrongful death claim.

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas:

• Surviving spouse
• Children (minor and adult)
• Parents (especially if no spouse or children)

Damages Available:

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

How Much Is Your Gaines County Trucking Case Worth?

The value of your case depends on many factors, but trucking accident cases typically result in much higher compensation than car accidents because:

1. Higher Insurance Limits: Trucking companies carry minimum $750,000 liability insurance, often $1-5 million or more
2. More Liable Parties: Multiple defendants means more insurance coverage available
3. Catastrophic Injuries: The severe injuries common in trucking accidents justify higher compensation

Factors That Determine Case Value:

Recent Trucking Verdicts and Settlements in Texas:

• $730 Million – Landstar Ranger case (2021)
• $150 Million – Werner settlement (2022)
• $37.5 Million – Trucking verdict (2024)
• $35.5 Million – Family injured in truck accident
• $2.5 Million – Truck crash recovery
• Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases

The Attorney911 Difference: Why Choose Us for Your Gaines County Trucking Case

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team with the experience, resources, and determination to take on the trucking industry. At Attorney911, we offer:

1. Unmatched Trucking Litigation Experience

• 25+ years handling trucking accident cases across Texas
• Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Proven track record of multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements
• Experience against major carriers including Walmart, Amazon, Coca-Cola, FedEx, and UPS

2. The Insurance Defense Advantage

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for a national defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims because he used to do it himself.

What Lupe Knows (That Other Firms Don’t):

• How insurance companies value claims
• How adjusters are trained to manipulate victims
• What makes them settle (and when they’re bluffing)
• How they minimize payouts
• How they deny claims
• How claims valuation software works

This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage in negotiating with insurance companies and presenting your case to juries.

3. Immediate Action on Your Case

We don’t wait to get started. When you call Attorney911:

• We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve all evidence
• We deploy our investigation team immediately to secure the scene
• We obtain ECM and ELD data before it’s overwritten
• We preserve dashcam footage before it’s deleted
• We gather witness statements while memories are fresh

4. Comprehensive Investigation

We leave no stone unturned in building your case:

• Electronic Data Analysis: ECM, ELD, GPS, telematics, cell phone records
• Driver Qualification Review: Background checks, training records, medical certification
• Maintenance Investigation: Inspection reports, repair records, brake and tire history
• Hours of Service Analysis: ELD data, paper logs, dispatch records
• Cargo Securement Review: Loading documents, tiedown records, weight certificates
• Accident Reconstruction: Scene analysis, skid marks, debris patterns, vehicle damage
• Expert Retention: Medical experts, vocational experts, life care planners, economists

5. Aggressive Litigation When Necessary

While most cases settle, 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.

Our Trial Experience Includes:

• Federal court trials in the Southern District of Texas
• State court trials across Texas
• Complex multi-defendant litigation
• High-stakes catastrophic injury cases

6. Compassionate Client Service

We understand that you’re going through one of the most difficult times of your life. Our team provides:

• 24/7 availability to answer your questions
• Direct access to attorneys (not just case managers)
• Regular case updates so you’re never in the dark
• Compassionate support throughout the process
• Spanish-language services through Lupe Peña and our bilingual staff

7. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing upfront and nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing.

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

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Gaines County, follow these steps to protect your rights:

1. Call 911 immediately and report the accident
2. Seek medical attention even if you feel okay – adrenaline masks pain
3. Document the scene with photos and video if possible
   • All vehicle damage (inside and out)
   • The accident scene (road conditions, skid marks, debris)
   • Your injuries
   • The truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company name
4. Get contact information from:
   • The truck driver
   • Any witnesses
   • Responding officers
5. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
6. Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911
7. Follow your doctor’s orders and attend all follow-up appointments

Common Questions About Gaines County Trucking Accidents

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

If you’re able, take these steps:

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention immediately
• Document the scene with photos and video
• Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
• Collect witness contact information
• Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
• Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911

Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?

YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Gaines County hospitals and clinics can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

What information should I collect at the truck accident scene?

Document everything possible:

• Truck and trailer license plates
• DOT number (on truck door)
• Trucking company name and logo
• Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
• Photos of all vehicle damage
• Photos of the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks
• Photos of your injuries
• Witness names and phone numbers
• Responding officer’s name and badge number
• Weather and road conditions

Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

NO. Do not give any recorded statements. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests.

How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney in Gaines 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 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 and can be critical in proving liability.

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

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Gaines 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. 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?

The black box (ECM/EDR) records critical data about the truck’s operation before and during the crash. This objective evidence often contradicts the driver’s version of events and can prove:

• Speeding
• Brake failure
• Hours of service violations
• Mechanical issues
• Driver distraction

What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are federally mandated to track driver hours. ELD data can prove:

• Hours of service violations
• Fatigued driving
• False log entries
• Route deviations

This evidence is crucial in proving driver fatigue, one of the leading causes of trucking accidents.

How long does the trucking company keep black box and ELD data?

• ECM data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days
• ELD data must be retained for 6 months
• Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days

This is why we send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this evidence.

What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We subpoena:

• 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 receive our spoliation letter, destroying evidence is illegal. Courts can:

• Assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable
• Impose monetary sanctions
• Enter default judgment
• Award punitive damages

What are hours of service regulations and how do violations cause accidents?

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

• Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 hours off
• Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
• 30-minute break required after 8 hours driving
• 60/70 hour weekly limits

Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. Drivers who violate these rules are too tired to react safely.

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find:

• Hours of service violations (driving too long)
• False log entries (lying about driving time)
• Brake system deficiencies
• Cargo securement failures
• Drug and alcohol violations
• Unqualified drivers (no valid CDL or medical certificate)
• Failure to inspect vehicles

What is a Driver Qualification File and why does it matter?

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

• Employment application
• Driving record check
• Previous employer verification
• Medical certification
• Drug test results
• Training documentation

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

How do pre-trip inspections relate to my accident case?

Drivers must inspect their trucks before every trip. If they failed to conduct inspections or ignored known defects (bad brakes, worn tires, lighting problems), both the driver and company may be liable for negligence.

What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in Gaines 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 Gaines 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.

What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in Gaines 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 Gaines 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.

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.

The Attorney911 Promise to Gaines County

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

✅ 25+ years of trucking litigation experience – We’ve been fighting trucking companies since 1998
✅ Federal court admission – We can handle your case in federal court if needed
✅ Former insurance defense attorney – We know exactly how they’ll try to minimize your claim
✅ Immediate action – We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve evidence
✅ Comprehensive investigation – We leave no stone unturned in building your case
✅ Aggressive litigation – We prepare every case for trial to maximize your settlement
✅ Compassionate service – We treat you like family, not a case number
✅ No fee unless we win – You pay nothing upfront and nothing unless we recover compensation
✅ 24/7 availability – We answer your calls and questions anytime, day or night
✅ Spanish-language services – Hablamos Español – Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911

Don’t Wait – Call Attorney911 Today

Every hour you wait, evidence in your Gaines County trucking accident case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. Trucking companies hire rapid-response teams to protect their interests. You need an attorney who moves just as fast.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free consultation. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence and start building your case immediately.

“When an 18-wheeler changes your life in an instant, you need more than a lawyer. You need a fighter. You need Attorney911.” – Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner

Our Gaines County Trucking Accident Services

At Attorney911, we handle every aspect of your Gaines County trucking accident case:

🔹 Immediate Evidence Preservation – We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
🔹 Comprehensive Investigation – ECM data, ELD records, maintenance logs, driver files
🔹 Accident Reconstruction – We work with top experts to prove what happened
🔹 Medical Coordination – We help you get the treatment you need
🔹 Insurance Negotiation – We deal with the insurance companies so you don’t have to
🔹 Litigation – We file lawsuits and take cases to trial when necessary
🔹 Settlement Negotiation – We fight for the maximum compensation you deserve
🔹 Wrongful Death Claims – We help families seek justice after fatal accidents
🔹 Catastrophic Injury Cases – TBI, spinal cord injuries, amputations, burns
🔹 Spanish-Language Services – Hablamos Español – Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911

Contact Attorney911 Today

Toll-Free: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct Houston: (713) 528-9070
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: https://attorney911.com

Available 24/7 – We answer trucking accident calls immediately

Don’t let the trucking company take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 now and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

“The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect them. You deserve the same level of representation. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 today.”