18-Wheeler Accidents in Hale County: Your Legal Emergency Guide
Every year, thousands of families across Texas face life-changing devastation when an 80,000-pound commercial truck collides with their vehicle on Hale County’s highways. The difference between a minor fender-bender and a catastrophic truck crash can be measured in seconds—and the consequences last a lifetime. If you or someone you love has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Hale County, you need more than just legal advice. You need a team that understands the unique dangers of our local trucking corridors, the federal regulations that govern commercial carriers, and the aggressive tactics insurance companies use to minimize your claim.
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Hale County and the entire state of Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by preventable truck crashes. When you call us at 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re not just getting a Hale County trucking accident lawyer—you’re getting a team with insider knowledge of how trucking companies operate, including a former insurance defense attorney who knows every tactic they’ll use against you.
Why Hale County Trucking Accidents Are Different
Hale County sits at the heart of Texas’s agricultural and energy economy, with major highways like US-87, US-380, and FM 179 cutting through our communities. These roads see heavy truck traffic from grain haulers, livestock transporters, oil field equipment carriers, and commercial freight vehicles traveling between Lubbock, Plainview, and Amarillo. The combination of rural road conditions, agricultural equipment sharing the road, and long-haul truckers pushing their hours creates a perfect storm of danger for local drivers.
Unlike typical car accidents, 18-wheeler crashes in Hale County involve:
- Federal regulations that govern trucking companies and drivers
- Multiple liable parties including the driver, trucking company, cargo owners, and maintenance providers
- Higher insurance limits (minimum $750,000 for most commercial trucks)
- Critical evidence that disappears quickly if not preserved immediately
- Complex injury patterns from the extreme forces involved in truck collisions
When a fully loaded semi-truck traveling at highway speeds collides with a passenger vehicle, the physics are unforgiving. Your 4,000-pound car simply cannot withstand the impact of an 80,000-pound truck. The result is often catastrophic injuries, permanent disabilities, or wrongful death.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Hale County
Our experience handling trucking cases throughout Hale County has shown us that most 18-wheeler accidents are preventable and result from one or more of these common causes:
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. Yet in our rural area where truckers often push to meet delivery deadlines, we frequently see violations of these hours of service (HOS) rules. When drivers operate beyond these limits, their reaction times slow dramatically, and they become more likely to fall asleep at the wheel.
The FMCSA’s Electronic Logging Device (ELD) mandate requires most commercial trucks to use devices that automatically record driving time. This data can prove whether a driver violated HOS regulations before your accident. However, this critical evidence can be overwritten or deleted if not preserved immediately—another reason to call us right away.
Distracted Driving
With the constant pressure to meet delivery schedules, many truck drivers engage in dangerous distractions:
- Texting or using hand-held phones (prohibited by 49 CFR § 392.82)
- Using in-cab dispatch systems while driving
- Eating, drinking, or adjusting navigation systems
- Fatigue-related distraction from long hours on the road
Cell phone records and ELD data can help prove distracted driving caused your accident.
Improper Maintenance and Brake Failures
Brake problems are a factor in nearly 30% of large truck crashes. Hale County’s rural roads with their long, straight stretches followed by sudden turns create ideal conditions for brake fade and failure. Common maintenance issues we see include:
- Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
- Improper brake adjustments
- Air brake system leaks
- Contaminated brake fluid
- Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
Maintenance records and post-accident inspections can reveal whether deferred maintenance contributed to your crash.
Cargo Securement Failures
When cargo isn’t properly secured, it can shift during transport, causing the truck to become unstable and potentially roll over. In Hale County, we see this frequently with agricultural loads, livestock, and equipment being transported to and from farms and ranches. Federal cargo securement regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) specify exactly how different types of cargo must be secured, but many loading companies cut corners to save time.
Tire Blowouts
Hale County’s extreme temperature variations—from scorching summer days to freezing winter nights—put tremendous stress on truck tires. Common causes of tire blowouts include:
- Underinflated tires
- Overloaded vehicles
- Worn or aging tires
- Manufacturing defects
- Road debris
A tire blowout at highway speeds can cause the driver to lose control, resulting in jackknife accidents or rollovers.
Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)
Many Hale County intersections aren’t designed to accommodate large trucks. When an 18-wheeler swings wide to make a right turn, it creates a dangerous gap that smaller vehicles may try to enter. As the truck completes its turn, it can crush the vehicle that entered the gap. These accidents are particularly common at rural intersections where drivers may not realize how much space a large truck needs to turn safely.
Underride Collisions
One of the most deadly types of truck accidents occurs when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of a trailer and slides underneath. The trailer’s height often shears off the top of the smaller vehicle, causing catastrophic head and neck injuries or decapitation. While federal law requires rear underride guards on most trailers (49 CFR § 393.86), there is no federal requirement for side underride guards, and many rear guards fail to prevent underride in real-world crashes.
Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)
Large trucks have significant blind spots where the driver cannot see other vehicles:
- 20 feet directly in front of the cab
- 30 feet directly behind the trailer
- Along both sides of the trailer, extending back from the cab
Many accidents occur when truck drivers change lanes without seeing vehicles in their blind spots. These accidents are particularly common on Hale County’s two-lane highways where vehicles may be traveling alongside trucks for extended periods.
The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Hale County Trucking Accidents
The sheer size and weight of 18-wheelers mean that trucking accidents often result in life-altering injuries. In our years of handling these cases throughout Hale County, we’ve seen:
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
TBI occurs when the brain is violently shaken or struck inside the skull. Even with airbags and seatbelts, the forces in a truck collision can cause the brain to impact the skull, resulting in:
- Concussions
- Contusions (bruising of brain tissue)
- Diffuse axonal injury (tearing of brain structures)
- Penetrating injuries
TBI symptoms may not appear immediately and can include headaches, memory problems, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and cognitive impairments. Some victims never fully recover their pre-accident abilities.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
When the spinal cord is damaged, it can result in partial or complete paralysis:
- Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
- Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
- Incomplete injuries: Some nerve function remains below the injury site
These injuries often require lifelong medical care, home modifications, and assistive devices. The lifetime cost of care for a spinal cord injury can exceed $5 million.
Amputations
The crushing forces in a truck accident can sever limbs at the scene or require surgical amputation later due to:
- Severe crushing injuries
- Infections from open wounds
- Burns requiring surgical removal
- Vascular damage
Amputations require prosthetic devices, rehabilitation, and psychological counseling. Many victims can no longer perform their previous jobs.
Severe Burns
Truck accidents can cause severe burns through:
- Fuel tank ruptures and fires
- Chemical cargo spills
- Electrical fires from damaged wiring
- Friction burns from road contact
Burn injuries often require multiple skin graft surgeries and leave permanent scarring and disfigurement.
Internal Organ Damage
The extreme forces in a truck collision can cause internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent:
- Liver lacerations
- Spleen damage
- Kidney injuries
- Lung contusions
- Internal bleeding
These injuries can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Wrongful Death
When a trucking accident takes a life, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim to recover:
- Lost future income and benefits
- Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
- Mental anguish and emotional suffering
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses incurred before death
- Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence
Who Is Liable for Your Hale County Trucking Accident?
One of the most important differences between car accidents and trucking accidents is that multiple parties may share liability for your injuries. At Attorney911, we investigate every potential defendant to maximize your recovery. These may include:
The Truck Driver
The driver may be personally liable for negligent acts such as:
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Distracted driving (cell phone use, dispatch communications)
- Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
- Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
- Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
- Violation of traffic laws
The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)
The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets and highest insurance limits. They can be liable through:
- Vicarious liability: The legal doctrine that makes employers responsible for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment
- Negligent hiring: Failing to properly vet drivers’ qualifications, experience, and safety records
- Negligent training: Inadequate safety training on hours of service, cargo securement, or defensive driving
- Negligent supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance, ELD compliance, or safety violations
- Negligent maintenance: Failing to properly maintain vehicles in safe operating condition
- Negligent scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate HOS regulations to meet deadlines
Cargo Owner/Shipper
The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may share liability if they:
- Provided improper loading instructions
- Failed to disclose the hazardous nature of cargo
- Required overweight loading
- Pressured the carrier to expedite delivery beyond safe limits
- Misrepresented cargo weight or characteristics
Cargo Loading Company
Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo onto trucks may be liable for:
- Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
- Unbalanced load distribution
- Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
- Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
- Not training loaders on securement requirements
Truck and Trailer Manufacturer
The company that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for defects such as:
- Design defects in brake systems, stability control, or fuel tank placement
- Manufacturing defects like faulty welds or component failures
- Failure to warn of known dangers
- Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)
Parts Manufacturer
Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for defective products that failed and caused the accident.
Maintenance Company
Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets 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 Broker
Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for:
- Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
- Failure to verify carrier insurance and operating authority
- Failure to check carrier CSA scores
- Selecting the cheapest carrier despite known safety concerns
Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)
In owner-operator arrangements where the driver owns the truck, 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 Entity
In limited circumstances, federal, state, or local government may share liability 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 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol
In 18-wheeler 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.
At Attorney911, we move immediately to preserve evidence in Hale County trucking cases. Here’s what we do in the first 48 hours:
Send Spoliation Letters
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. This includes:
-
Electronic Data:
- Engine Control Module (ECM) / Black Box 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
The spoliation letter puts defendants on legal notice that destroying evidence will result in serious consequences, including:
- Adverse inference instructions (jury told to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable)
- Monetary sanctions
- Default judgment in extreme cases
- Punitive damages for intentional destruction
Preserve Electronic Data
The most critical evidence in modern trucking cases comes from electronic systems:
ECM/Black Box Data:
Commercial trucks have electronic systems that continuously record operational data. This data can show:
- Speed before and during the crash
- Brake application timing and force
- Throttle position
- Following distance
- Whether cruise control was engaged
- Fault codes that may reveal known mechanical issues
ELD Data:
Electronic Logging Devices record driver hours of service and can prove:
- Whether the driver violated HOS regulations
- When the driver took breaks
- GPS location history
- Driving time and duty status
GPS/Telematics Data:
Many trucks have GPS tracking systems that record:
- Real-time location
- Speed history
- Route taken
- Driver behavior (hard braking, acceleration)
Dashcam Footage:
Forward-facing and cab-facing cameras can show:
- The moments leading up to the crash
- Driver behavior (distraction, fatigue)
- Road conditions
- Traffic signals and signs
This electronic evidence can be overwritten or deleted if not preserved immediately. ECM data may be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. ELD data may only be retained for 6 months. Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days.
Secure Physical Evidence
We work to preserve:
- The truck and trailer for inspection
- Failed components for expert analysis
- Cargo and securement devices
- Tire remnants if a blowout was involved
- Any other physical evidence from the scene
Document the Scene
If possible, we:
- Photograph the accident scene, vehicle damage, and road conditions
- Document skid marks and debris patterns
- Obtain surveillance footage from nearby businesses
- Interview witnesses before memories fade
Obtain Official Records
We obtain:
- Police accident reports
- 911 call recordings
- Emergency responder reports
- Weather data for the time of the accident
How We Prove Liability in Hale County Trucking Cases
Proving liability in a trucking accident requires a comprehensive investigation and deep knowledge of federal trucking regulations. At Attorney911, we use a multi-pronged approach:
FMCSA Regulation Violations
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399) establish the minimum safety standards for commercial trucking. When trucking companies or drivers violate these regulations, it often constitutes negligence per se—a legal doctrine that presumes negligence when a law is violated.
Common violations we see in Hale County trucking cases include:
Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395):
- Driving more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
- Driving beyond the 14th consecutive hour on duty
- Failing to take the required 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
- Exceeding the 60/70-hour weekly limits
- Falsifying log entries
Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391):
- Hiring drivers without proper CDL or medical certification
- Failing to maintain complete Driver Qualification Files
- Employing drivers with poor safety records
- Allowing drivers to operate without proper training
Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396):
- Failing to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
- Ignoring known mechanical defects
- Deferred maintenance on critical systems
- Improper brake adjustments
- Worn or damaged tires
Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR Part 393):
- Inadequate number of tiedowns
- Improper load distribution
- Failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats
- Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
Black Box and ELD Data Analysis
ECM and ELD data provides objective evidence of what happened before and during the crash. Our experts analyze this data to determine:
- Whether the driver was speeding
- How long the driver had been on duty
- Whether the driver took required breaks
- When and how hard the brakes were applied
- Whether the driver was distracted or fatigued
This data often contradicts what drivers claim happened and can be crucial in proving liability.
Accident Reconstruction
We work with accident reconstruction experts who use:
- Skid mark analysis
- Vehicle damage patterns
- ECM/ELD data
- Weather and road conditions
- Witness statements
To create a detailed reconstruction of how the accident occurred and who was at fault.
Maintenance and Inspection Records
We review:
- Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
- Annual inspection records
- Maintenance work orders
- Parts purchase records
- Out-of-service orders
To identify whether the truck was properly maintained and whether known defects were ignored.
Driver Qualification and Training Records
We examine:
- The Driver Qualification File
- Employment application and background check
- Previous employer verification
- Training records
- Previous accident and violation history
To determine whether the trucking company negligently hired or trained the driver.
Witness Statements
We interview:
- Independent witnesses
- Emergency responders
- Other drivers
- Passengers
To corroborate our client’s version of events.
Surveillance Footage
We obtain footage from:
- Dashcams
- Business security cameras
- Traffic cameras
- Red light cameras
To provide visual evidence of what happened.
The Compensation You May Recover
Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical auto policies—often $750,000 to $5,000,000 or more. This means that catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.
At Attorney911, we pursue full compensation for our Hale County clients, including:
Economic Damages
These are the calculable financial losses you’ve suffered:
- Medical expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs including hospital bills, doctor visits, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and medical equipment
- Lost wages: Income lost due to your injuries and recovery period
- Lost earning capacity: Reduction in your ability to earn income in the future
- Property damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle
- Out-of-pocket expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, and other accident-related expenses
- Life care costs: Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries such as home health aides, medical equipment, and specialized transportation
Non-Economic Damages
These compensate for the intangible losses that affect your quality of life:
- Pain and suffering: Physical pain from your injuries
- Mental anguish: Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression
- Loss of enjoyment of life: Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed
- Disfigurement: Scarring, visible injuries, or permanent changes to your appearance
- Loss of consortium: Impact on your marriage and family relationships
- Physical impairment: Reduced physical capabilities
Punitive Damages
In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, we may pursue punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. Texas law allows punitive damages when the defendant acted with:
- Gross negligence
- Willful misconduct
- Conscious indifference to safety
- Fraud (such as falsifying logs or destroying evidence)
Texas caps punitive damages at the greater of:
- Two times the amount of economic damages plus an amount equal to non-economic damages (capped at $750,000), or
- $200,000
However, this cap does not apply to cases involving:
- Intoxication offenses
- Certain environmental violations
- Defendants who acted with specific intent to cause harm
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Hale County Trucking Accident 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’s powerful legal teams. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:
25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience
Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for truck accident victims since 1998. He has:
- Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts
- Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
- Experience in BP explosion litigation against multinational corporations
- Deep familiarity with Hale County trucking corridors and accident patterns
- Comprehensive understanding of FMCSA regulations
Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics
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:
- Train their adjusters to minimize claims
- Evaluate cases and determine settlement values
- Use recorded statements against victims
- Deny or delay legitimate claims
- Pressure victims to accept lowball settlements
This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage in negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, presenting your case to a jury.
Aggressive Evidence Preservation
We move quickly to preserve critical evidence before it disappears:
- Sending spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
- Demanding immediate download of ECM and ELD data
- Securing physical evidence before it’s repaired or destroyed
- Obtaining surveillance footage before it’s deleted
- Interviewing witnesses before memories fade
Proven Track Record of Results
While every case is unique, our firm has achieved significant results for truck accident victims, including:
- Multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injury cases
- Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases
- Successful litigation against major trucking companies including Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS
- Documented case results including $5+ million for a logging brain injury settlement and $3.8+ million for a car accident amputation settlement
Bilingual Services for Hale County’s Hispanic Community
Hale County has a significant Hispanic population, many of whom work in the trucking and agricultural industries. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without the need for interpreters. We understand the unique challenges faced by Spanish-speaking accident victims and are committed to serving our entire community.
No Fee Unless We Win
We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This means:
- No upfront costs
- No hourly fees
- No risk to you
- We advance all costs of investigation and litigation
- You only pay if we win your case
Personalized Attention from Start to Finish
Unlike large billboard firms that treat clients like case numbers, we treat every client like family. When you call Attorney911, you’ll speak directly with our attorneys, not just case managers or paralegals. We keep you informed every step of the way and are available to answer your questions 24/7.
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Hale County
If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Hale County, taking the right steps immediately can protect your health and your legal rights:
1. Call 911 and Report the Accident
Even if you think your injuries are minor, call 911 immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries may not be apparent right away. A police report creates an official record of the accident, which is crucial for your case.
2. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Go to the nearest hospital or urgent care facility. Tell the medical staff about all your symptoms, even if they seem minor. Delaying treatment can:
- Worsen your injuries
- Give insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim
- Create gaps in your medical records that can hurt your case
3. Document the Scene
If you’re able, take photos and videos of:
- All vehicles involved in the accident
- Vehicle damage (inside and out)
- The accident scene, including road conditions, skid marks, and debris
- Traffic signs and signals
- Your injuries
- The truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company information
- Any visible cargo or securement devices
4. Collect Information
Get the following information from all parties involved:
- Driver’s name, contact information, and CDL number
- Trucking company name and contact information
- Insurance information for all vehicles
- Names and contact information for witnesses
5. Do NOT Give Recorded Statements
Insurance adjusters may contact you soon after the accident. Do NOT give any recorded statements. Anything you say can and will be used to minimize your claim. Politely decline to give a statement and tell them to contact your attorney.
6. Call Attorney911 Immediately
The sooner you call us, the sooner we can:
- Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
- Begin investigating your case
- Deal with insurance companies on your behalf
- Connect you with medical providers who understand personal injury cases
- Start building your claim
Hale County Trucking Corridors: Where Accidents Happen
Hale County’s location in the Texas Panhandle puts it at the intersection of several major trucking routes. Our experience handling cases throughout the region gives us unique insight into the most dangerous areas and common accident patterns:
US-87
Running north-south through Hale County, US-87 connects Lubbock to Amarillo and sees heavy truck traffic from:
- Agricultural products (cotton, grain, livestock)
- Oil field equipment and supplies
- Commercial freight moving between major cities
Common accident types on US-87 include:
- Rear-end collisions from sudden stops
- Wide turn accidents at rural intersections
- Head-on collisions from passing maneuvers
- Rollovers from high winds and sudden turns
US-380
This east-west route connects Lubbock to cities like Brownfield and Post, carrying:
- Agricultural products
- Livestock transporters
- Oil field equipment
Common accident types on US-380 include:
- Underride collisions at intersections
- Cargo securement failures
- Tire blowouts on long straight stretches
FM 179
Running through the heart of Hale County, FM 179 serves local communities and agricultural areas. Truck traffic includes:
- Grain haulers
- Livestock transporters
- Farm equipment
- Local delivery vehicles
Common accident types on FM 179 include:
- Collisions with slow-moving farm equipment
- Wide turn accidents at rural intersections
- Accidents involving agricultural loads
- Pedestrian and cyclist accidents
Rural Intersections
Many of Hale County’s rural intersections are not designed to accommodate large trucks. Common problems include:
- Inadequate turning radii for large trucks
- Poor visibility due to crops or terrain
- Lack of traffic signals or stop signs
- Confusion about right-of-way
Wide turn accidents (“squeeze play” accidents) are particularly common at these intersections.
Agricultural Equipment on Roadways
Hale County’s strong agricultural economy means farm equipment frequently shares the road with commercial trucks. This creates unique hazards:
- Slow-moving equipment on high-speed roads
- Wide equipment that may extend into other lanes
- Equipment with limited visibility
- Equipment that may not have proper lighting or reflectors
The Hale County Legal Process for Trucking Accidents
If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Hale County, understanding the legal process can help you know what to expect:
1. Initial Consultation
When you call Attorney911, we’ll:
- Listen to your story and answer your questions
- Evaluate the strength of your case
- Explain your legal options
- Discuss our fee structure (no fee unless we win)
- Develop a plan to move forward
2. Investigation
We’ll immediately begin investigating your case, including:
- Sending spoliation letters to preserve evidence
- Obtaining police reports and accident scene photos
- Collecting witness statements
- Reviewing medical records
- Analyzing ECM/ELD data
- Consulting with accident reconstruction experts
- Identifying all potentially liable parties
3. Medical Treatment and Documentation
We’ll help you:
- Get the medical treatment you need
- Document your injuries and treatment
- Keep records of all medical expenses
- Connect with specialists who understand trucking accident injuries
- Develop a long-term treatment plan if necessary
4. Demand Package
Once we’ve completed our investigation and you’ve reached maximum medical improvement, we’ll prepare a comprehensive demand package that includes:
- A detailed description of the accident
- Analysis of liability
- Summary of your injuries and treatment
- Calculation of economic damages
- Valuation of non-economic damages
- Settlement demand
5. Negotiation
We’ll negotiate aggressively with the insurance companies to reach a fair settlement. Our team’s insider knowledge of insurance company tactics gives us a significant advantage in these negotiations.
6. Litigation (If Necessary)
If we can’t reach a fair settlement through negotiation, we’re prepared to take your case to court. We have:
- Federal court experience
- Trial experience
- The resources to take on large trucking companies
- A track record of success in the courtroom
7. Resolution
Your case may be resolved through:
- Settlement agreement
- Mediation
- Arbitration
- Jury verdict
We’ll explain the pros and cons of each option and help you make the best decision for your situation.
Common Questions About Hale County Trucking Accidents
How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Hale County?
Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including trucking accidents. This means you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, you should never wait this long to contact an attorney. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner we begin investigating, the stronger your case will be.
How much is my Hale County trucking accident case worth?
The value of your case depends on many factors, including:
- The severity of your injuries
- The cost of your medical treatment (past and future)
- Your lost wages and earning capacity
- The degree of the trucking company’s negligence
- The available insurance coverage
- The impact of your injuries on your daily life
Trucking cases often have higher values than typical car accident cases because:
- Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits
- The injuries are often more severe
- Multiple parties may share liability
While we can’t predict the exact value of your case without a thorough investigation, we can tell you that our firm has recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for truck accident victims.
Will my case go to trial?
Most trucking accident cases settle before trial. However, 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.
If your case does go to trial, you can be confident that we have:
- The experience to present a compelling case
- The resources to take on large trucking companies
- The determination to fight for the compensation you deserve
What if the trucking company blames me for the accident?
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. This means:
- If you’re less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages
- Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault
- If you’re 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages
Even if you think you may have contributed to the accident, you should still consult with an attorney. Trucking companies often try to shift blame to victims to avoid responsibility. We’ll investigate thoroughly and fight to prove the trucking company’s liability.
What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?
Even if the driver was an independent contractor, both the driver and the trucking company may still be liable. We’ll investigate the relationship between the driver and the company to determine all potentially liable parties.
How long will my case take?
The timeline for your case depends on many factors, including:
- The severity of your injuries
- The complexity of your case
- Whether liability is disputed
- The insurance company’s willingness to negotiate
- Court schedules if your case goes to trial
Simple cases with clear liability may settle in 6-12 months. Complex cases with severe injuries or disputed liability may take 1-3 years or longer.
What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
We investigate all potentially liable parties to ensure you can recover compensation even if one defendant goes bankrupt. This may include:
- The truck driver
- The cargo owner
- The loading company
- The maintenance provider
- The truck or parts manufacturer
- Other motorists
Can I still recover compensation if I didn’t go to the hospital immediately?
Yes, but it’s much more difficult. Insurance companies use gaps in treatment to argue that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident or that they’re not as serious as you claim. If you’re injured in a trucking accident, seek medical attention immediately—even if you think your injuries are minor.
Call Attorney911 Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Hale County, don’t wait to get the help you need. Every hour you delay gives the trucking company more time to destroy evidence and build their defense.
At Attorney911, we offer:
- Free consultations – We’ll evaluate your case at no cost to you
- No fee unless we win – You pay nothing unless we recover compensation
- 24/7 availability – We’re here when you need us
- Bilingual services – Hablamos Español
- Personalized attention – You’re family, not a case number
Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) or visit our website at attorney911.com to schedule your free consultation. The sooner you call, the sooner we can start fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Remember: The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of representation. Don’t let them push you around—call Attorney911 and let us fight for you.
Attorney911 – Legal Emergency Lawyers™
Hablamos Español
1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
attorney911.com
