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

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Garza County, you’re likely facing overwhelming challenges. The physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial strain can feel insurmountable. At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through, and we’re here to help.

Garza County’s highways see significant truck traffic, with commercial vehicles traveling through on their way to major distribution centers and oil field operations. The mix of local traffic and heavy commercial vehicles creates unique risks on our roads. When accidents happen, the consequences are often catastrophic.

Why Garza County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Garza County presents specific challenges for trucking accident victims:

• Highway infrastructure: Our county is served by major routes including US Highway 84 and State Highway 207, which see heavy truck traffic
• Oil field operations: The energy industry brings specialized trucking needs and potential hazards
• Rural road conditions: Many of our roads have unique characteristics that require special attention from truck drivers
• Local court system: Understanding Garza County’s legal landscape is crucial for building a strong case

The trucking companies that operate in Garza County are well-prepared to protect their interests after an accident. They have rapid-response teams, experienced attorneys, and insurance adjusters working to minimize their liability. You need someone on your side who understands these tactics and knows how to fight back.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Garza County

Trucking accidents in our county often result from:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Federal regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate without rest. The Hours of Service (HOS) rules are designed to prevent fatigue-related accidents:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Drivers may drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour On-Duty Window: Drivers cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• 30-Minute Break Requirement: Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: Drivers cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days

Despite these regulations, we frequently see violations in Garza County. Trucking companies often pressure drivers to meet tight deadlines, leading to dangerous fatigue. Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) now provide objective data about driving hours, making it easier to prove violations.

Improper Maintenance and Brake Failures

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes nationwide. In Garza County, we see:

• Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
• Improper brake adjustments
• Air brake system leaks or failures
• Overheated brakes on long descents
• Failure to conduct pre-trip inspections

The trucking company is responsible for maintaining proper records of all inspections and repairs. When these records are missing or incomplete, it suggests negligent maintenance practices.

Cargo Securement Failures

Cargo securement violations are among the most common FMCSA violations. Improperly secured cargo can:

• Shift during transit, destabilizing the truck
• Fall onto the roadway, creating hazards for other vehicles
• Cause rollover accidents
• Lead to jackknife incidents

Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) specify exact requirements for cargo securement. These include:

• Minimum number of tiedowns based on cargo length and weight
• Working load limits for securement devices
• Requirements for blocking and bracing
• Special rules for different types of cargo (logs, metal coils, etc.)

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a growing problem among commercial drivers. Federal regulations prohibit:

• Using hand-held mobile phones while driving (49 CFR § 392.82)
• Texting while driving (49 CFR § 392.80)
• Using dispatch devices that require manual input

Despite these prohibitions, we see many accidents in Garza County caused by drivers using phones, GPS devices, or in-cab computers while operating their vehicles.

Speeding and Aggressive Driving

The size and weight of 18-wheelers make speeding particularly dangerous. A fully loaded truck traveling at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases stopping distance, making accidents more likely and more severe.

The Devastating Injuries from Trucking Accidents

The physics of trucking accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm rather than the exception. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds – 20-25 times more than a typical passenger vehicle. When these massive vehicles collide with smaller cars, the results are often devastating.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In trucking accidents, this often happens when the head strikes the steering wheel, dashboard, or window. Symptoms can include:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory loss and confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes and depression
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
• Speech difficulties

TBI can range from mild (concussion) to severe, with lifetime care costs ranging from $85,000 to $3,000,000 or more.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis. The level of injury determines the extent of paralysis:

• Cervical injuries (neck): Can result in quadriplegia, affecting all four limbs
• Thoracic injuries (upper back): Typically result in paraplegia, affecting the lower body
• Lumbar injuries (lower back): May affect the legs and lower body functions

Lifetime care costs for spinal cord injuries can exceed $5 million.

Amputations

Amputations can occur at the scene due to crushing forces or later as a result of medical complications. Ongoing needs include:

• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ each)
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Psychological counseling
• Home modifications
• Assistance with daily activities

Severe Burns

Burns can result from fuel tank ruptures, electrical fires, or chemical spills. Burn injuries require:

• Multiple reconstructive surgeries
• Skin grafts
• Long-term pain management
• Physical therapy
• Psychological support

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents prove fatal, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims. These can include compensation for:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses before death

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Garza County Trucking Accident?

One of the key differences between trucking accidents and car accidents is the number of potentially liable parties. In a typical car accident, you might only sue the other driver. In trucking accidents, multiple parties may share responsibility:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, etc.)
• Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
• Impaired driving (drugs or alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections

The Trucking Company

The motor carrier is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets and highest insurance limits. They can be liable for:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

• The driver was an employee (not an independent contractor)
• The driver was acting within the scope of employment
• The accident occurred while performing job duties

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent Hiring: Failing to check the driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
• Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
• Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance or compliance with regulations
• Negligent Maintenance: Failing to maintain vehicles in safe condition
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring 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 nature of cargo
• Requiring overweight loading
• Pressuring the carrier to expedite beyond safe limits

The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

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

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for:

• Design defects (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement)
• Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
• Failure to warn of known dangers

Parts Manufacturers

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

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

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance companies 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 may be liable for:

• Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
• Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
• Failure to check carrier CSA 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 the vehicle
• Failure to maintain owned equipment
• Knowledge of the driver’s unfitness

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, government entities may be liable for:

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

The Critical 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

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

Why 48 Hours Matters

The Spoliation Letter: Your First Line of Defense

A spoliation letter is a formal legal notice sent to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence related to the accident.

Why It Matters:

• Puts defendants on legal notice of their preservation obligation
• Creates serious consequences if evidence is destroyed
• Courts can impose sanctions, adverse inferences, or even default judgment for spoliation
• The sooner sent, the more weight it carries

We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained.

What the Spoliation Letter Demands

Electronic Data:

• Engine Control Module (ECM) / Electronic Control Unit (ECU) data
• Event Data Recorder (EDR) data
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
• GPS and telematics data
• Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
• Dispatch communications and messaging
• Cell phone records and text messages
• Qualcomm or fleet management system data

Driver Records:

• Complete Driver Qualification File
• Employment application and resume
• Background check and driving record
• Previous employer verification
• Medical certification and exam records
• Drug and alcohol test results (pre-employment and random)
• Training records and certifications
• Previous accident and violation history
• Performance reviews and disciplinary records

Vehicle Records:

• Maintenance and repair records
• Inspection reports (pre-trip, post-trip, annual)
• Out-of-service orders and repairs
• Tire records and replacement history
• Brake inspection and adjustment records
• Parts purchase and installation records

Company Records:

• Hours of service records for 6 months prior
• Dispatch logs and trip records
• Bills of lading and cargo documentation
• Insurance policies
• Safety policies and procedures
• Training curricula
• Hiring and supervision policies

Physical Evidence:

• The truck and trailer themselves
• Failed or damaged components
• Cargo and securement devices
• Tire remnants if a blowout was involved

ECM/Black Box Data: The Smoking Gun

Commercial trucks have electronic systems that continuously record operational data – similar to an airplane’s black box but for trucks.

Types of Electronic Recording:

Critical Data Points:

• Speed Before Crash: Proves speeding or excessive speed for conditions
• Brake Application: Shows when and how hard brakes were applied
• Throttle Position: Reveals if the 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

This objective data often contradicts driver claims and can be the key to winning your case.

The Most Common FMCSA Violations in Garza County Trucking Accidents

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations govern every aspect of commercial trucking. When trucking companies and drivers violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that cause accidents.

Top 10 Violations We Find in Garza County Cases

1. Hours of Service Violations – Driving beyond 11-hour limit, no breaks
2. False Log Entries – Falsifying ELD or paper log records
3. Failure to Maintain Brakes – Worn brakes, improper adjustment
4. Cargo Securement Failures – Inadequate tiedowns, shifting loads
5. Unqualified Driver – Operating without valid CDL or medical certificate
6. Drug/Alcohol Violations – Operating under influence, failed tests
7. Mobile Phone Use – Texting, hand-held phone while driving
8. Failure to Inspect – No pre-trip inspection, ignored defects
9. Improper Lighting – Non-functioning lights, missing reflectors
10. Negligent Hiring – No background check, incomplete DQ file

How We Prove Violations

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

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Garza County, taking the right steps immediately can make the difference between a successful claim and losing your right to compensation.

At the Scene

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request police and medical assistance
2. Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out immediately
3. Document the Scene – Take photos and videos of:
   • All vehicle damage
   • The accident scene and road conditions
   • Skid marks and debris
   • Traffic signs and signals
   • Your injuries
4. Get Information – Collect:
   • Truck and trailer license plates
   • DOT number (on truck door)
   • Trucking company name and logo
   • Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
   • Witness names and phone numbers
   • Responding officer’s name and badge number
5. Do NOT – Give recorded statements to any insurance company
6. Call Attorney911 – Contact us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911

In the Days Following

1. Follow Up with Medical Care – Attend all follow-up appointments and follow your doctor’s orders
2. Document Everything – Keep records of:
   • Medical visits and treatments
   • Medications prescribed
   • Pain levels and symptoms
   • Time missed from work
   • How injuries affect daily activities
3. Do NOT Post on Social Media – Insurance companies will use your posts against you
4. Keep All Evidence – Save damaged clothing, vehicle parts, and any other evidence
5. Stay in Communication – Keep your attorney updated on your medical condition and any contact from insurance companies

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Garza County Trucking Accident Case

At Attorney911, we’re not just Texas attorneys – we’re Garza County attorneys. We understand the unique challenges of trucking cases in our community, and we have the experience to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Our Experience and Track Record

• 25+ years of experience handling trucking accident cases
• Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for trucking accident victims
• Former insurance defense attorney on our team – we know their tactics from the inside
• $50+ million recovered for Texas families across all practice areas
• 251+ Google reviews with a 4.9-star average
• 290+ educational videos on trucking accidents and personal injury law

Our Unique Advantages

Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge
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
• Undervalue injuries
• Delay claims to pressure victims into accepting lowball offers

Now he uses that knowledge to fight FOR you, not against you.

Immediate Evidence Preservation
We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained. We know that black box data can be overwritten, dashcam footage can be deleted, and physical evidence can disappear. Our rapid response protects your case.

Comprehensive Investigation
We leave no stone unturned in investigating your case:

• Obtain and analyze ECM/Black Box data
• Review ELD records for hours of service violations
• Subpoena cell phone records to prove distraction
• Examine maintenance records for deferred repairs
• Investigate the driver’s background and qualifications
• Consult with accident reconstruction experts
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Aggressive Representation
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 reputation for aggressive representation gives us leverage in negotiations.

Compassionate Client Service
We treat our clients like family. You’re not just a case number to us. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a trucking accident takes on your life, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Our Results Speak for Themselves

While we can’t guarantee specific results in your case, our track record demonstrates our ability to secure significant compensation for trucking accident victims:

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

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

“They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

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

The Legal Process for Your Garza County Trucking Accident Case

Understanding the legal process can help reduce anxiety and set realistic expectations. Here’s what you can expect when you work with Attorney911:

Step 1: Free Consultation

We offer free, no-obligation consultations. During this meeting, we’ll:

• Review the facts of your case
• Explain your legal rights and options
• Answer your questions
• Provide an initial assessment of your case

Step 2: Case Acceptance

If we believe we can help you, we’ll:

• Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
• Begin investigating your case
• Handle all communication with insurance companies
• Help you get the medical care you need

Step 3: Investigation

Our investigation includes:

• Obtaining police reports
• Collecting medical records
• Analyzing electronic data (ECM, ELD, etc.)
• Interviewing witnesses
• Consulting with experts
• Identifying all liable parties

Step 4: Medical Treatment and Documentation

We’ll help you:

• Get the medical care you need
• Document your injuries and treatment
• Keep records of all medical expenses
• Track your pain levels and symptoms
• Document how your injuries affect your daily life

Step 5: Demand Letter

Once your treatment is complete, we’ll:

• Calculate the full value of your damages
• Prepare a comprehensive demand package
• Send a demand letter to the insurance company
• Negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement

Step 6: Litigation (If Necessary)

If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we’ll:

• File a lawsuit in the appropriate Garza County court
• Conduct discovery (interrogatories, depositions, document requests)
• Prepare your case for trial
• Continue negotiating for a fair settlement

Step 7: Resolution

Your case will resolve through:

• Settlement negotiations
• Mediation
• Trial (if necessary)

Throughout this process, we’ll keep you informed and involved. You’ll never be left wondering about the status of your case.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

Garza County trucking accident victims may be entitled to various types of compensation:

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

• Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to injury and recovery
• Lost Earning Capacity: Reduction in future earning ability
• Property Damage: Vehicle repair or replacement
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications
• Life Care Costs: Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

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

Punitive Damages

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)

Texas law allows punitive damages up to the greater of:

• (2 × economic damages) + (non-economic damages up to $750,000)
• $200,000

The Statute of Limitations for Garza County Trucking Accidents

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is 2 years from the date of the accident. This means you have two years to file a lawsuit, or you lose your right to compensation forever.

However, you should never wait this long to contact an attorney. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.

Don’t Let the Trucking Company Take Advantage of You

After a trucking accident, the trucking company and their insurance adjusters will try to protect their interests – not yours. They may:

• Offer a quick, lowball settlement before you understand the full extent of your injuries
• Pressure you to give a recorded statement that they’ll use against you
• Claim you were partially at fault to reduce their liability
• Delay your claim to pressure you into accepting less
• Use your social media posts against you
• Argue that your injuries were pre-existing

At Attorney911, we know all their tactics because we used to work on their side. Now we use that knowledge to fight for you.

What to Do Next

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Garza County, don’t wait. Every hour that passes puts your case at risk.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you take the first steps toward justice and compensation. Remember:

• We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case
• We advance all costs – you never receive a bill from us
• We offer free consultations – there’s no risk to calling
• We speak Spanish – Hablamos Español

Don’t let the trucking company push you around. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll fight for every dime you deserve.

“When an 18-wheeler changes your family’s life forever, y’all need a lawyer who treats you like family.”
— Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner, Attorney911