18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Hamlin, Texas | Attorney911
Every year, thousands of families across West Texas are devastated by catastrophic 18-wheeler accidents. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking crash on I-20, US-180, or the rural highways around Hamlin, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a fighter with the experience and resources to take on the trucking industry.
At Attorney911, we’ve been holding negligent trucking companies accountable for over 25 years. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows every tactic the trucking companies will use against you. We know Fisher County’s trucking corridors, we understand the unique challenges of rural Texas trucking cases, and we have the federal court experience to handle even the most complex interstate trucking accidents.
Don’t wait. Evidence disappears fast in trucking cases. Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence.
Why Hamlin Trucking Accidents Are Different
Hamlin sits at the crossroads of major Texas trucking routes. I-20 carries transcontinental freight through Fisher County, while US-180 and FM 1084 connect to oil field operations and agricultural shipping centers. This creates unique risks for local drivers:
- Oil field truck traffic from the Permian Basin and North Texas oil plays
- Agricultural freight hauling cotton, grain, and livestock
- Long-haul fatigue from drivers crossing multiple states
- Rural road hazards with limited shoulders and sudden wildlife crossings
- Weather challenges including high winds, sudden thunderstorms, and winter ice
When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle on these roads, the results are often catastrophic. We’ve seen cases where families lost everything—loved ones, livelihoods, and their sense of security—because a trucking company cut corners on safety.
The Devastating Truth About 18-Wheeler Accidents
The physics of trucking accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception:
- Size and weight disparity: A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh 20-25 times more than your car
- Stopping distance: At 65 mph, an 18-wheeler needs nearly two football fields to stop
- Trailer dynamics: Improperly secured loads can shift, causing rollovers or jackknives
- Underride dangers: Trailers are often at windshield height, creating decapitation risks
Common injuries we see in Hamlin trucking accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) from violent impacts
- Spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis
- Amputations from crushing forces
- Severe burns from fuel fires
- Internal organ damage from blunt force trauma
- Wrongful death leaving families devastated
“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client
How Trucking Companies Try to Avoid Responsibility
Within hours of your accident, the trucking company’s rapid-response team will be working to protect their interests—not yours. They’ll:
- Destroy evidence by overwriting black box data or deleting dashcam footage
- Pressure you to give recorded statements that minimize your injuries
- Offer quick settlements that don’t cover your future medical needs
- Blame you for the accident, even when their driver was clearly at fault
- Delay your claim hoping you’ll accept a lowball offer out of desperation
Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these tactics work. He spent years on the other side, helping insurance companies minimize claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Hamlin Trucking Case
1. We’re Hamlin’s Trucking Accident Specialists
While other firms handle trucking cases as part of their general practice, we focus specifically on commercial vehicle litigation. We know:
- The specific trucking corridors serving Hamlin and Fisher County
- The weigh stations and inspection points where violations are caught
- The local courts and judges who handle trucking cases
- The unique challenges of rural Texas trucking accidents
Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting trucking companies since 1998. We’ve handled cases against Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and other major commercial carriers.
2. We Have Federal Court Experience
Many trucking cases involve interstate commerce and can be filed in federal court. Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, giving us the ability to handle complex federal trucking cases. This is crucial for Hamlin cases involving:
- Interstate trucking companies
- Federal hours-of-service violations
- Complex multi-state liability issues
- Cases against major national carriers
3. We Send Spoliation Letters Immediately
Evidence in trucking cases disappears fast. We send formal preservation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained, demanding that the trucking company preserve:
- ECM/Black Box Data (can be overwritten in 30 days)
- ELD Records (showing hours of service violations)
- Dashcam Footage (often deleted within 7-14 days)
- Driver Qualification Files (proving negligent hiring)
- Maintenance Records (showing deferred repairs)
- The Physical Truck and Trailer (before it’s repaired or scrapped)
4. We Know the FMCSA Regulations Inside and Out
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations govern every aspect of commercial trucking. When trucking companies violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that lead to accidents. We know how to prove violations of:
- Hours of Service Rules (49 CFR Part 395) – Fatigue is a factor in 31% of fatal truck crashes
- Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR Part 391) – Including medical certification and background checks
- Vehicle Maintenance Requirements (49 CFR Part 396) – Brake failures cause 29% of truck accidents
- Cargo Securement Rules (49 CFR Part 393) – Improper loading causes rollovers and spills
- Drug and Alcohol Testing (49 CFR Part 382) – Impaired driving remains a serious problem
5. We Hold ALL Responsible Parties Accountable
In most trucking accidents, multiple parties share responsibility. We investigate and pursue claims against:
| Party | Potential Liability |
|---|---|
| Truck Driver | Speeding, fatigue, distraction, impairment |
| Trucking Company | Negligent hiring, training, supervision; HOS pressure |
| Cargo Owner/Shipper | Improper loading instructions, hazmat disclosure failures |
| Loading Company | Improper cargo securement, overloading |
| Truck Manufacturer | Defective design or manufacturing (brakes, tires, stability systems) |
| Parts Manufacturer | Defective components that failed |
| Maintenance Company | Negligent repairs, failure to identify safety issues |
| Freight Broker | Negligent carrier selection |
| Truck Owner | Negligent entrustment of vehicle |
| Government Entity | Dangerous road design or maintenance |
6. We Have the Resources to Win Your Case
Trucking cases require significant resources to investigate and litigate properly. We have:
- Accident reconstruction experts to prove what happened
- Medical experts to document your injuries and future needs
- Economic experts to calculate lost earning capacity
- Life care planners to develop comprehensive care plans
- FMCSA regulation experts to identify all violations
- The financial resources to advance all case costs
7. We Offer Fluent Spanish Services
Hamlin and Fisher County have a significant Hispanic population, including many Spanish-speaking truck drivers and agricultural workers. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español.
“Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.”
— Celia Dominguez, Attorney911 Client
Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Hamlin
1. Jackknife Accidents
A jackknife occurs when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic. These accidents are common on I-20 and US-180, especially during sudden braking or on wet roads.
Common causes in Hamlin:
- Sudden braking on I-20 near the Fisher County line
- Empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing)
- Improperly secured cargo shifting during turns
- Brake failures on long descents
- Driver inexperience with emergency maneuvers
2. Rollover Accidents
Rollover accidents are particularly dangerous in rural areas where emergency response times may be longer. They often occur when:
- Drivers take curves too fast (common on FM 1084 and rural intersections)
- Top-heavy loads shift during turns
- Drivers overcorrect after running off the road
- Tire blowouts cause loss of control
- Brake failures on downhill grades
3. Underride Collisions
Underride collisions occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath a trailer, often resulting in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries. These are among the most deadly trucking accidents.
Hamlin-specific risks:
- Poor lighting on rural roads at night
- Sudden stops on I-20 without adequate warning
- Wide right turns at rural intersections
- Missing or inadequate underride guards
4. Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are common on I-20 where trucks follow too closely or fail to stop in time for slowed traffic.
Why they’re so dangerous:
- Trucks require 40% more stopping distance than cars
- At 65 mph, an 18-wheeler needs 525 feet to stop
- Following too closely violates FMCSA regulations
- Brake failures are a common cause
5. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)
Wide turn accidents occur when a truck swings wide to make a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing the smaller vehicle.
Common locations in Hamlin:
- Intersection of US-180 and FM 1084
- Downtown Hamlin intersections
- Rural road intersections with limited visibility
6. Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)
Trucks have massive blind spots where they can’t see other vehicles. The right-side blind spot is particularly dangerous.
Hamlin-specific risks:
- Lane changes on I-20 without proper mirror checks
- Rural road intersections where cars enter blind spots
- Passing trucks on two-lane roads
- Following too closely where you can’t be seen
7. Tire Blowout Accidents
Tire blowouts are common in West Texas due to extreme heat, long distances, and heavy loads.
Hamlin-specific factors:
- Extreme summer temperatures causing tire failures
- Long distances between service stations
- Overloaded agricultural trucks
- Poor tire maintenance
- Road debris from oil field operations
8. Brake Failure Accidents
Brake failures are a leading cause of trucking accidents, especially on long downhill grades.
Common causes:
- Worn brake pads not replaced
- Improper brake adjustment
- Air brake system leaks
- Overheated brakes on long descents
- Failure to conduct pre-trip inspections
9. Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents
Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, causing instability, or spill onto roadways.
Hamlin-specific risks:
- Agricultural products (cotton, grain, livestock)
- Oil field equipment and supplies
- Hazardous materials from oil field operations
- Improperly secured loads on flatbed trucks
10. Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are among the deadliest trucking accidents, often occurring when:
- Drivers fall asleep at the wheel
- Drivers cross the centerline on two-lane roads
- Medical emergencies cause loss of control
- Wrong-way entry onto divided highways
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Hamlin
Immediately After the Crash:
- Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
- Seek medical attention – Even if you feel okay, adrenaline masks pain
- Document the scene – Take photos and videos of:
- All vehicle damage (inside and out)
- The accident scene and road conditions
- Skid marks and debris patterns
- Your injuries
- The truck’s DOT number and license plates
- Get information from:
- The truck driver (name, CDL number, contact info)
- The trucking company (name, DOT number, insurance info)
- Witnesses (names and phone numbers)
- Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
- Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911
In the Following Days:
- Follow all medical advice – Attend all appointments and follow treatment plans
- Document everything – Keep a journal of your symptoms, pain levels, and how the injuries affect your daily life
- Do NOT post on social media – Insurance companies will use your posts against you
- Do NOT accept quick settlement offers – They’re designed to pay you far less than your case is worth
- Stay in communication with your attorney – Provide updates on your medical condition and any contact from insurance companies
How We Build Your Hamlin Trucking Case
Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)
- Accept your case and send preservation letters same day
- Deploy accident reconstruction expert to scene if needed
- Obtain police crash report
- Photograph your injuries with medical documentation
- Photograph all vehicles before they are repaired or scrapped
- Identify all potentially liable parties
Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)
- Subpoena ECM/black box data downloads
- Request driver’s paper log books (backup documentation)
- Obtain complete Driver Qualification File from carrier
- Request all truck maintenance and inspection records
- Obtain carrier’s CSA safety scores and inspection history
- Order driver’s complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
- Subpoena driver’s cell phone records
- Obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules
- Secure surveillance camera footage from nearby businesses
Phase 3: Expert Analysis
- Accident reconstruction specialist creates crash analysis
- Medical experts establish causation and future care needs
- Vocational experts calculate lost earning capacity
- Economic experts determine present value of all damages
- Life care planners develop comprehensive care plans
- FMCSA regulation experts identify all violations
Phase 4: Litigation Strategy
- File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires (2 years in Texas)
- Pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
- Depose truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, maintenance personnel
- Build case for trial while negotiating settlement from position of strength
- Prepare every case as if going to trial (this creates leverage in negotiations)
What Your Hamlin Trucking Case Might Be Worth
Case values depend on many factors, but trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical auto policies:
| Injury Type | Typical Settlement Range | Factors Affecting Value |
|---|---|---|
| Soft Tissue (Whiplash) | $15,000 – $60,000 | Treatment duration, pre-existing conditions |
| Herniated Disc (Non-Surgical) | $50,000 – $200,000 | Pain levels, activity limitations |
| Herniated Disc (With Surgery) | $346,000 – $1,205,000 | Number of surgeries, recovery time |
| Traumatic Brain Injury (Mod-Severe) | $1,548,000 – $9,838,000+ | Cognitive impairment, permanent disability |
| Spinal Cord Injury (Paraplegia) | $4,770,000 – $25,880,000+ | Level of injury, care needs |
| Spinal Cord Injury (Quadriplegia) | $10,000,000 – $30,000,000+ | Ventilator dependency, 24/7 care |
| Amputation | $1,945,000 – $8,630,000 | Prosthetic needs, rehabilitation costs |
| Severe Burns | $2,000,000 – $15,000,000+ | Number of surgeries, disfigurement |
| Wrongful Death | $1,910,000 – $9,520,000+ | Decedent’s earning capacity, number of dependents |
Note: These ranges represent documented settlements and verdicts from Texas trucking cases. Your case may be worth more or less depending on the specific facts.
The Texas Statute of Limitations for Trucking Accidents
In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is strict—if you miss it, you lose your right to sue forever.
However, you should never wait to contact an attorney. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and insurance companies begin building their defense immediately. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.
Why Hamlin Families Trust Attorney911
“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client
“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client
“I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Manginello law firm were able to help me out.”
— Greg Garcia, Attorney911 Client
“Ralph reached out personally.”
— Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client
We understand that after a catastrophic trucking accident, you’re facing:
- Mounting medical bills
- Lost income from missed work
- Physical pain and emotional trauma
- Uncertainty about your future
- The trucking company’s aggressive legal team
That’s why we treat every client like family. We’ll:
- Handle all communication with insurance companies
- Connect you with the best medical specialists
- Fight for maximum compensation for your injuries
- Keep you informed every step of the way
- Never settle for less than you deserve
What Sets Us Apart from Other Hamlin Law Firms
| Factor | Other Firms | Attorney911 |
|---|---|---|
| Trucking Case Focus | Handle as part of general practice | Specialized 18-wheeler litigation |
| Insurance Defense Experience | Rare | ✅ Lupe Peña – former insurance defense attorney |
| Federal Court Access | Varies | ✅ U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas |
| Spoliation Letters | May send eventually | ✅ Sent within 24-48 hours |
| Case Staffing | Often assigned to paralegals | ✅ Direct attorney involvement |
| Client Communication | Frequent complaints | ✅ 4.9★ Google rating (251+ reviews) |
| Family Treatment | Case numbers | ✅ “You are FAMILY to them” |
| Speed vs. Competitors | Slow resolution | ✅ “Solved in months what others couldn’t in years” |
| Took Rejected Cases | Won’t touch difficult cases | ✅ Won cases other firms dropped |
Our Promise to Hamlin Trucking Accident Victims
- We’ll answer your call 24/7 – No answering services, no delays
- We’ll send preservation letters immediately – To protect your evidence
- We’ll handle all communication with insurance companies – So you don’t have to
- We’ll connect you with the best medical specialists – To document your injuries
- We’ll investigate every liable party – To maximize your recovery
- We’ll prepare your case for trial – To create leverage in negotiations
- We’ll never settle for less than you deserve – No matter how long it takes
- You’ll pay nothing unless we win – Our fee comes from the settlement, not your pocket
Frequently Asked Questions About Hamlin Trucking Accidents
What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Hamlin?
Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene with photos, get the truck driver’s information, and call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. Evidence disappears fast in trucking cases, so time is critical.
Who can I sue after a trucking accident in Hamlin?
Multiple parties may be liable, including:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- 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 the carrier)
- Government entities (for road defects)
How much is my Hamlin trucking accident case worth?
Case values depend on injury severity, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and available insurance coverage. Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.
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. If you’re less than 50% at fault, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. We’ll investigate thoroughly to prove what really happened.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a Hamlin trucking accident?
In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly, and insurance companies begin building their defense immediately.
Will my case go to trial?
Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This creates leverage in settlement negotiations. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court—and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.
Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?
No. We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.
How long will my case 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.
What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
We investigate all potentially liable parties and their insurance coverage. Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, other defendants (manufacturers, brokers, etc.) may still be liable.
Can I still recover if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Texas follows modified comparative negligence. As long as you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault.
What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?
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 prove the driver was fatigued?
We use multiple sources of evidence:
- ELD data showing hours of service violations
- Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
- Cell phone records showing late-night use
- Witness statements about driver behavior
- Video evidence of erratic driving
What if the truck’s black box data was destroyed?
If we sent a preservation letter and the trucking company destroyed evidence anyway, we can ask the court to:
- Instruct the jury to assume the data was unfavorable
- Impose monetary sanctions
- Enter default judgment in extreme cases
Can I get punitive damages in my Hamlin trucking case?
Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company acted with gross negligence or reckless disregard for safety. This might include:
- Systematic hours of service violations
- Falsifying log books
- Destroying evidence
- Hiring drivers with poor safety records
- Ignoring maintenance issues
What if I don’t have health insurance?
We can connect you with medical providers who will treat you on a lien basis. They’ll get paid from your settlement, so you don’t have to pay upfront.
How much does it cost to hire Attorney911?
We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our fee is typically 33.33% of the recovery if the case settles before trial, or 40% if it goes to trial.
What if I already talked to the insurance company?
That’s okay. Call us before you say anything else or sign anything. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize your claim, and anything you say can be used against you.
Do I need a lawyer if the trucking company seems cooperative?
Yes. The trucking company has lawyers and adjusters protecting their interests. You need someone protecting yours. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth.
What if my loved one was killed in a Hamlin trucking accident?
Texas allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover:
- Lost future income and benefits
- Loss of companionship and guidance
- Mental anguish
- Funeral expenses
- Punitive damages if gross negligence
Can I sue if the truck was carrying hazardous materials?
Yes. Trucks carrying hazardous materials are required to carry $5 million in insurance. These cases often involve additional regulations and potential environmental claims.
What if the accident happened on I-20 near Hamlin?
Interstate accidents often involve:
- Interstate trucking companies
- Federal jurisdiction
- Complex liability issues
- Multiple state laws
- Higher insurance limits
Our federal court experience makes us particularly well-suited to handle I-20 trucking cases.
How do I know if the trucking company has a bad safety record?
We obtain the carrier’s complete safety record, including:
- 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 if the truck driver was under the influence?
Drug and alcohol violations create strong cases for:
- Negligence per se (automatic liability)
- Punitive damages
- Dram shop liability (if alcohol was involved)
We subpoena drug and alcohol test results and investigate the company’s testing program.
Can I get the truck’s GPS data?
Yes. GPS data can show:
- The truck’s route and speed
- Whether the driver took required breaks
- Whether the driver was on duty when they shouldn’t have been
- The exact location of the accident
What if the trucking company is based out of state?
That doesn’t matter. We handle trucking cases throughout the United States. Our federal court experience allows us to litigate cases in any jurisdiction.
How do I prove the trucking company pressured the driver to violate HOS rules?
We look for evidence of:
- Dispatch records showing unrealistic schedules
- Text messages or emails pressuring drivers
- Pay structures that reward speed over safety
- Company policies that encourage HOS violations
What if the truck had a dashcam?
Dashcam footage can be powerful evidence. We demand preservation of all video footage immediately. If the trucking company refuses, we can ask the court to impose sanctions.
Can I sue if the truck’s brakes failed?
Yes. We investigate:
- Maintenance records to see if the failure was preventable
- Whether the driver conducted proper pre-trip inspections
- Whether the company knew about the brake issues
- Whether the brake components were defective
What if the accident was caused by a tire blowout?
Tire blowouts are often preventable. We investigate:
- Tire maintenance and replacement records
- Whether the tires were properly inflated
- Whether the truck was overloaded
- Whether the tires were defective
How do I prove the trucking company knew about safety violations?
We look for:
- Previous out-of-service orders
- Internal company documents
- Safety audit reports
- Previous accident reports
- Employee complaints about safety issues
What if the trucking company blames me for the accident?
We gather evidence to prove what really happened:
- ECM/black box data
- ELD records
- Witness statements
- Accident reconstruction reports
- Surveillance footage
- Cell phone records
Can I sue if the truck was overloaded?
Yes. Overloading violates FMCSA regulations and can cause:
- Brake failures
- Tire blowouts
- Rollovers
- Loss of control
We investigate weight records from weigh stations and loading documentation.
What if the accident happened at night?
Nighttime accidents create additional issues:
- Poor visibility
- Driver fatigue
- Inadequate lighting on the truck
- Difficulty seeing road hazards
We investigate whether the truck had proper lighting and whether the driver was properly rested.
How do I prove the driver was distracted?
We look for evidence of:
- Cell phone records showing texting or calls
- Dispatch communications during driving
- In-cab camera footage
- Witness statements about driver behavior
- ECM data showing erratic driving
What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?
Never accept a quick settlement without consulting an attorney. These offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries.
Can I sue if the truck was carrying livestock?
Yes. Livestock haulers have special cargo securement requirements. Improperly secured livestock can shift during transit, causing loss of control.
What if the accident was caused by a mechanical failure?
Mechanical failures often indicate negligent maintenance. We investigate:
- Maintenance records
- Pre-trip inspection reports
- Out-of-service orders
- Whether the failure was preventable
How do I prove the trucking company has a pattern of safety violations?
We obtain:
- The carrier’s complete safety record
- Previous accident reports
- Out-of-service inspection history
- Safety audit reports
- Employee complaints
A pattern of violations can support punitive damages.
What if the truck driver doesn’t speak English?
This doesn’t affect your ability to recover. We have Spanish-speaking attorneys and staff who can communicate directly with Spanish-speaking drivers.
Can I sue if the accident happened in a construction zone?
Yes. Construction zones create additional hazards:
- Narrow lanes
- Sudden stops
- Confusing signage
- Road debris
We investigate whether the construction zone was properly marked and whether the truck driver was paying proper attention.
What if the trucking company is refusing to provide records?
We file motions to compel production of documents. If the company continues to refuse, we can ask the court to impose sanctions, including:
- Monetary penalties
- Adverse inferences
- Default judgment
How do I prove the trucking company cut corners on safety?
We look for evidence of:
- Inadequate driver training
- Poor hiring practices
- Deferred maintenance
- Falsified log books
- Pressure to violate HOS rules
What if the accident was caused by a medical emergency?
Medical emergencies can be unpredictable, but we investigate:
- Whether the driver had a known medical condition
- Whether the company knew about the condition
- Whether the driver was properly certified
Can I sue if the truck was carrying oversized loads?
Yes. Oversized loads require special permits and escort vehicles. Improperly secured oversized loads can cause catastrophic accidents.
What if the trucking company is denying responsibility?
We gather evidence to prove liability:
- Accident reconstruction reports
- Witness statements
- ECM/black box data
- ELD records
- Maintenance records
- Driver qualification files
How do I prove the trucking company knew the driver was dangerous?
We investigate:
- The driver’s employment application
- Previous employer references
- Driving record
- Previous accident history
- Disciplinary records
What if the accident happened on a rural road near Hamlin?
Rural road accidents create unique challenges:
- Limited emergency response
- Poor lighting
- Wildlife hazards
- Limited cell service
- Difficulty preserving evidence
We understand the unique aspects of rural Texas trucking accidents.
Can I sue if the truck was carrying hazardous waste?
Yes. Hazardous waste haulers have additional regulations and higher insurance requirements. These cases often involve environmental claims.
What if the trucking company is blaming the weather?
We investigate:
- Whether the driver was properly trained for weather conditions
- Whether the truck was properly equipped for weather
- Whether the driver reduced speed appropriately
- Whether the company had weather-related policies
How do I prove the trucking company had a culture of safety violations?
We look for:
- Internal company documents
- Employee complaints
- Previous accident reports
- Safety audit reports
- Management communications
What if the accident was caused by a tire retread failure?
Retread failures are often preventable. We investigate:
- Tire maintenance records
- Retread quality
- Whether the company used reputable retreaders
- Whether the tires were properly inspected
Can I sue if the truck was carrying military equipment?
Yes. Military equipment haulers have special requirements. Improperly secured military equipment can cause catastrophic accidents.
What if the trucking company is offering to pay my medical bills?
Be careful. Paying medical bills doesn’t mean they’re accepting responsibility. They may be trying to minimize your claim. Consult an attorney before accepting any payments.
How do I prove the trucking company pressured drivers to speed?
We look for evidence of:
- Dispatch records showing unrealistic schedules
- Text messages or emails pressuring drivers
- Pay structures that reward speed
- Company policies that encourage speeding
What if the accident happened at a railroad crossing?
Railroad crossing accidents create additional issues:
- Whether the crossing was properly marked
- Whether the truck driver had proper training
- Whether the railroad company was negligent
- Whether the crossing gates were working properly
Don’t Wait – Call Attorney911 Now
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Hamlin or anywhere in Fisher County, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re available 24/7 to answer your call and start protecting your rights.
Remember:
- Evidence disappears fast in trucking cases
- The trucking company has lawyers working against you right now
- Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than you deserve
- You have only 2 years to file a lawsuit in Texas
- We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win
“When disaster strikes, you need a Legal Emergency Lawyer™ who fights like your future depends on it—because it does.”
Call now: 1-888-ATTY-911