# 18-Wheeler Accidents in Houston County, Texas: Your Complete Legal Guide
## When an 18-Wheeler Changes Your Life in an Instant
The impact was catastrophic. Eighty thousand pounds of steel against your sedan. The sound of twisting metal. The shattering glass. The sudden, violent motion that throws your body against the seatbelt. In that moment on Houston County’s highways, everything changed.
If you’re reading this, you or someone you love has been through the nightmare of an 18-wheeler accident in Houston County, Texas. Maybe you’re lying in a hospital bed with broken bones and mounting medical bills. Maybe you’re grieving the loss of a family member. Maybe you’re trying to understand how your life got turned upside down in an instant. Wherever you are in this journey, you need to know: **you are not alone, and you have rights that powerful trucking companies don’t want you to understand.**
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for Houston County trucking accident victims for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against some of the largest trucking companies in America. We know exactly how these companies operate, how their insurance adjusters manipulate victims, and how to hold them fully accountable. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about 18-wheeler accidents in Houston County – from the immediate steps to take after a crash, to the complex web of regulations that trucking companies violate, to how we build cases that force them to pay what you truly deserve.
## Why Houston County’s Highways Are Especially Dangerous
Houston County sits at a critical crossroads of Texas trucking corridors. Our county’s position along major freight routes creates unique risks for drivers:
– **US Highway 287** cuts through the heart of Houston County, connecting major distribution hubs and serving as a primary route for commercial freight moving through East Texas
– **State Highway 19** sees heavy truck traffic serving the county’s agricultural and timber industries
– **The proximity to major interstate corridors** (I-45 to the west, I-10 to the south) means our local roads handle significant through traffic
– **Rural stretches with limited law enforcement presence** create opportunities for speeding and hours-of-service violations
– **Seasonal agricultural traffic** adds to the mix, with oversized and overweight loads creating additional hazards
We know these roads. We know the truck stops where drivers might be pushing their hours-of-service limits. We know the distribution centers where cargo might be improperly loaded. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.
## The Brutal Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents
When an 18-wheeler collides with a passenger vehicle, the physics are unforgiving:
– **80,000 pounds** – the maximum weight of a fully loaded truck
– **4,000 pounds** – the average weight of a passenger car
– **20-25 times heavier** – the size disparity between trucks and cars
– **525 feet** – the stopping distance for a loaded truck at 65 mph (nearly two football fields)
– **300 feet** – the stopping distance for a car at 65 mph
This isn’t a fair fight. The injuries we see in Houston County trucking accidents reflect this brutal reality:
### Catastrophic Injuries We See in Houston County Cases
**Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI):**
– Mild TBI (concussions) can cause persistent headaches, memory problems, and mood changes
– Moderate to severe TBI often results in permanent cognitive impairment, requiring lifelong care
– The lifetime cost of care for severe TBI can exceed $3 million
**Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis:**
– Complete injuries result in total loss of function below the injury site
– Incomplete injuries may allow some movement or sensation but still cause severe disability
– Paraplegia (waist down) and quadriplegia (neck down) change lives forever
– Lifetime care costs range from $1.1 million to $5 million+
**Amputations:**
– Traumatic amputations occur when limbs are severed at the scene
– Surgical amputations become necessary when limbs are too damaged to save
– Prosthetics can cost $5,000-$50,000 each and require replacement every few years
– Phantom limb pain and psychological trauma are common
**Severe Burns:**
– Fuel tank ruptures cause intense fires
– Chemical burns from hazmat cargo
– Third and fourth-degree burns require skin grafts and multiple surgeries
– Permanent scarring and disfigurement
**Internal Organ Damage:**
– Liver and spleen lacerations
– Kidney damage requiring removal
– Lung contusions and collapsed lungs
– Internal bleeding that can be fatal if not treated immediately
**Wrongful Death:**
– When the worst happens, families are left with unimaginable grief
– Funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional devastation
– Texas law allows wrongful death claims for surviving family members
> *”They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”*
> — Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client
## The First 48 Hours: What to Do After a Houston County Trucking Accident
### At the Scene
If you’re able to move after the accident:
1. **Call 911 immediately** – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. **Document everything** – Take photos of:
– All vehicles involved (exterior and interior damage)
– The accident scene (skid marks, debris, road conditions)
– Your injuries
– The truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company name
– Any visible violations (improperly secured cargo, damaged equipment)
3. **Get witness information** – Names, phone numbers, and statements
4. **Never admit fault** – Don’t apologize or say “I’m sorry” – these statements can be used against you
5. **Get the truck driver’s information** – Name, CDL number, contact information, insurance details
### At the Hospital
1. **Seek immediate medical attention** – Even if you feel okay, adrenaline masks pain
2. **Follow all treatment recommendations** – Insurance companies use gaps in treatment to deny claims
3. **Document your injuries** – Take photos of visible injuries as they heal
4. **Keep all medical records** – Request copies of all medical reports and bills
5. **Report all symptoms** – Even minor headaches or dizziness could indicate serious injury
### In the Days Following
1. **Contact Attorney911 immediately** – 1-888-ATTY-911
2. **Do not speak to insurance adjusters** – They work for the trucking company, not you
3. **Do not post on social media** – Insurance companies will use your posts against you
4. **Keep a pain journal** – Document how your injuries affect your daily life
5. **Follow up with medical providers** – Consistent treatment strengthens your case
> **CRITICAL WARNING:** Black box data from the truck can be overwritten in as little as 30 days. Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days. Witness memories fade quickly. **Call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.**
## The Trucking Company’s Playbook: How They Protect Themselves (And How We Fight Back)
Within hours of your accident, the trucking company’s rapid response team springs into action. Their goal? To protect their interests, not yours. Here’s what they do – and how we counter their tactics:
### Their Tactics vs. Our Counter-Strategies
| **Trucking Company Tactic** | **How We Counter It** |
|—————————–|———————–|
| **Quick lowball settlement offers** | We never accept first offers. We calculate the full value of your case before negotiating. |
| **Denying or minimizing injuries** | We obtain comprehensive medical documentation and expert testimony about your prognosis. |
| **Blaming the victim** | We gather objective evidence (ECM data, ELD logs, witness statements) to prove what really happened. |
| **Delaying the claims process** | We file lawsuits to force discovery and set depositions. We don’t let them drag out your case. |
| **Using recorded statements against you** | We advise clients NEVER to give statements without an attorney present. |
| **”Pre-existing condition” defense** | We apply Texas law that holds defendants responsible for the full extent of injuries, regardless of pre-existing conditions. |
| **”Gap in treatment” attacks** | We document all treatment and explain any gaps with medical records. |
| **Sending surveillance investigators** | We advise clients on appropriate conduct. We expose unfair surveillance tactics. |
| **Hiring “independent” medical examiners** | We counter with your treating physicians and independent medical experts. |
| **Drowning you in paperwork** | We handle all communications and aggressively litigate to force resolution. |
> *”Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.”*
> — Attorney911 Team
## The Web of Liability: Who’s Really Responsible for Your Injuries?
In car accidents, usually only one driver is at fault. In 18-wheeler accidents, **multiple parties can share responsibility**. We investigate every potential defendant to maximize your recovery:
### The 10 Potentially Liable Parties
1. **The Truck Driver**
– Speeding or reckless driving
– Distracted driving (cell phone use, dispatch communications)
– Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
– Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol, prescription medication)
– Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
2. **The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)**
– **Vicarious liability** for driver’s actions
– **Negligent hiring** – failing to check driver’s background
– **Negligent training** – inadequate safety training
– **Negligent supervision** – failing to monitor driver performance
– **Negligent maintenance** – poor vehicle upkeep
– **Negligent scheduling** – pressuring drivers to violate hours-of-service rules
3. **The Cargo Owner/Shipper**
– Providing improper loading instructions
– Failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
– Requiring overweight loads
– Pressuring carrier to expedite delivery
4. **The Cargo Loading Company**
– Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
– Unbalanced load distribution
– Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
– Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
5. **Truck and Trailer Manufacturer**
– Design defects (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement)
– Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
– Failure to warn of known dangers
6. **Parts Manufacturer**
– Defective brakes or brake components
– Defective tires causing blowouts
– Defective steering mechanisms
– Defective lighting components
7. **Maintenance Company**
– Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
– Failure to identify critical safety issues
– Improper brake adjustments
– Using substandard or wrong parts
8. **Freight Broker**
– Negligent selection of carrier with poor safety record
– Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
– Failure to check carrier CSA scores
– Selecting cheapest carrier despite safety concerns
9. **Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)**
– Negligent entrustment of vehicle
– Failure to maintain owned equipment
– Knowledge of driver’s unfitness
10. **Government Entity**
– Dangerous road design that contributed to accident
– Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
– Inadequate signage for known hazards
– Failure to install safety barriers
– Improper work zone setup
**OUR INVESTIGATION PROCESS:**
1. **Immediate Evidence Preservation**
– Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
– Demand preservation of ECM, ELD, maintenance records
– Secure physical evidence before repair or disposal
2. **FMCSA Records Review**
– Obtain carrier’s complete safety record
– Review CSA scores and inspection history
– Identify pattern of violations
3. **Driver Qualification File Subpoena**
– Employment application and background check
– Driving record and previous employers
– Medical certification and drug test history
– Training documentation
4. **Corporate Structure Analysis**
– Identify all related companies
– Determine owner-operator vs. employee status
– Map insurance coverage for each entity
5. **Accident Reconstruction**
– Retain expert engineers
– Analyze ECM and ELD data
– Determine sequence of events and contributing factors
6. **Defect Investigation**
– Preserve failed components
– Research recall and complaint history
– Retain product liability experts if warranted
> *”We’ve seen what trucking companies do after an accident. And we know how to stop them.”*
> — Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner
## FMCSA Regulations: The Rulebook That Trucking Companies Break
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates every aspect of commercial trucking. When trucking companies violate these regulations, they create dangerous conditions that cause catastrophic accidents. **Proving FMCSA violations is often the key to winning your case.**
### The 6 Critical Parts of FMCSA Regulations
**Part 390 – General Applicability**
– Defines who must comply with federal trucking regulations
– Establishes that regulations apply to all commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce
– Defines key terms like “commercial motor vehicle” and “motor carrier”
**Part 391 – Driver Qualification Standards**
– Establishes minimum qualifications for commercial drivers
– Requires motor carriers to maintain Driver Qualification (DQ) Files
– Mandates background checks, medical certification, and training
**Part 392 – Driving Rules**
– Prohibits fatigued driving
– Bans drug and alcohol use while operating CMVs
– Establishes speed limits and following distance requirements
– Prohibits mobile phone use while driving
**Part 393 – Vehicle Safety**
– Establishes equipment standards for CMVs
– Includes cargo securement requirements
– Specifies brake system standards
– Mandates lighting and reflector requirements
**Part 395 – Hours of Service (HOS)**
– Limits driving time to prevent fatigue
– Requires mandatory rest breaks
– Establishes weekly driving limits
– Mandates Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)
**Part 396 – Inspection and Maintenance**
– Requires systematic vehicle inspections
– Mandates pre-trip and post-trip inspections
– Establishes annual inspection requirements
– Requires maintenance record retention
### The Most Common FMCSA Violations in Houston County Accidents
1. **Hours of Service Violations (Part 395)**
– Driving beyond the 11-hour limit
– Exceeding the 14-hour duty window
– Failing to take required 30-minute breaks
– Violating the 60/70-hour weekly limits
– Falsifying log entries
2. **Driver Qualification Violations (Part 391)**
– Hiring unqualified drivers
– Failing to maintain complete DQ files
– Employing drivers with suspended or revoked CDLs
– Hiring drivers with poor safety records
3. **Vehicle Maintenance Violations (Part 396)**
– Failing to conduct required inspections
– Ignoring known mechanical defects
– Improper brake adjustments
– Worn or damaged tires
– Non-functioning lighting or reflectors
4. **Cargo Securement Violations (Part 393)**
– Inadequate tiedowns
– Improper load distribution
– Failure to use blocking or bracing
– Overweight loads
– Unsecured tarps or covers
5. **Drug and Alcohol Violations (Part 392)**
– Operating under the influence
– Positive drug or alcohol tests
– Failure to conduct required testing
– Using prescription medications that impair driving
6. **Mobile Phone Violations (Part 392.82)**
– Texting while driving
– Using hand-held phones
– Reaching for phones while driving
### How We Prove FMCSA Violations
**ECM/Black Box Data:**
– Records speed before and during the crash
– Shows brake application timing
– Indicates throttle position
– Records GPS location and route
– May show fault codes for mechanical issues
**ELD Data:**
– Proves hours of service violations
– Shows driver’s duty status
– Records GPS location and driving time
– Provides objective evidence of fatigue
**Driver Qualification File:**
– Reveals negligent hiring practices
– Shows gaps in background checks
– May reveal previous violations or accidents
**Maintenance Records:**
– Proves deferred maintenance
– Shows known mechanical defects
– Reveals inspection violations
**Dispatch Records:**
– Shows schedule pressure
– Reveals communication about deadlines
– May show instructions to violate HOS
**Cell Phone Records:**
– Proves distracted driving
– Shows text messages or calls while driving
– Establishes pattern of phone use
**Witness Statements:**
– Corroborate other evidence
– Provide human perspective on driver behavior
– May reveal pre-accident violations
> **”The truth is, trucking companies know these regulations inside and out. They know exactly how to cut corners and how to hide their violations. That’s why you need attorneys who know the regulations just as well – and know how to catch them when they break the rules.”**
> — Lupe Peña, Associate Attorney (former insurance defense attorney)
## The Evidence That Wins Trucking Cases
In trucking accident cases, **evidence is everything**. The trucking company will try to destroy or hide evidence that hurts their case. We act immediately to preserve this evidence before it disappears.
### Critical Evidence in Houston County Trucking Cases
| **Evidence Type** | **What It Shows** | **Preservation Window** |
|——————-|——————-|————————-|
| **ECM/Black Box** | Speed, braking, throttle, fault codes | 30-180 days (can be overwritten) |
| **ELD Logs** | Hours of service, driving time, GPS location | 6 months (FMCSA requirement) |
| **Driver Qualification File** | Hiring practices, driver history, training | 3 years after termination |
| **Maintenance Records** | Vehicle condition, known defects, repairs | 1 year (FMCSA requirement) |
| **Dispatch Records** | Schedule pressure, delivery deadlines | Varies by company |
| **Drug/Alcohol Tests** | Impairment at time of accident | Must be conducted within hours |
| **Cell Phone Records** | Distracted driving evidence | Requires subpoena |
| **GPS/Telematics** | Route, speed, location history | Varies by system |
| **Dashcam Footage** | Driver behavior, road conditions | Often overwritten in 7-14 days |
| **Surveillance Video** | Accident sequence, driver behavior | Typically 7-30 days |
| **Physical Evidence** | Vehicle damage, failed components | Until repaired or scrapped |
| **Witness Statements** | Independent accounts of the accident | Memories fade quickly |
### Our Evidence Preservation Protocol
**Within 24-48 Hours:**
– Send formal spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties
– Demand immediate download of ECM and ELD data
– Subpoena cell phone records
– Obtain police crash reports and 911 call recordings
**Within 7 Days:**
– Canvass accident scene for surveillance cameras
– Photograph all vehicle damage before repairs
– Interview witnesses while memories are fresh
– Hire accident reconstruction experts
**Within 30 Days:**
– Obtain complete Driver Qualification File
– Request all maintenance and inspection records
– Analyze ECM and ELD data
– Review dispatch records and delivery schedules
**Ongoing:**
– Monitor medical treatment and document injuries
– Keep detailed records of all damages
– Prepare for litigation with expert analysis
> **URGENT:** ECM data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days. Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days. **Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.**
## The Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents We Handle in Houston County
### Jackknife Accidents
**What Happens:**
The trailer and cab skid in opposite directions, with the trailer folding at an angle like a pocket knife. The trailer often swings across multiple lanes of traffic, creating a massive hazard.
**Common Causes in Houston County:**
– Sudden braking on wet or icy roads (especially on US 287)
– Speeding on curves (common on rural county roads)
– Empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing)
– Improperly loaded or unbalanced cargo
– Brake system failures or worn brakes
– Driver inexperience with emergency maneuvers
**Injuries:**
– Multi-vehicle pileups
– Catastrophic impact injuries
– Crushing injuries when vehicles are caught between trailer and guardrail
– Wrongful death
**Evidence We Gather:**
– Skid mark analysis showing trailer angle
– Brake inspection records and maintenance logs
– Weather conditions at time of accident
– ELD data showing speed before braking
– ECM data for brake application timing
– Cargo manifest and loading records
### Underride Collisions
**What Happens:**
A smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of an 18-wheeler and slides underneath the trailer. The trailer height often shears off the top of the smaller vehicle at windshield level.
**Statistics:**
– Approximately 400-500 underride deaths occur annually in the U.S.
– Rear underride and side underride are both deadly
– Side underride has no federal guard requirement
**Common Causes in Houston County:**
– Inadequate or missing underride guards
– Worn or damaged rear impact guards
– Truck sudden stops without adequate warning
– Low visibility conditions (fog common in rural areas)
– Truck lane changes into blind spots
– Wide right turns cutting off traffic
– Inadequate rear lighting or reflectors
**Evidence We Gather:**
– Underride guard inspection and maintenance records
– Rear lighting compliance documentation
– Crash dynamics showing underride depth
– Guard installation and certification records
– Visibility conditions at accident scene
– Post-crash guard deformation analysis
### Tire Blowout Accidents
**What Happens:**
A tire on the 18-wheeler suddenly fails, causing the driver to lose control. Debris from the blown tire can also strike other vehicles.
**Statistics:**
– Tire blowouts cause 11,000+ crashes yearly
– Steer tire (front) blowouts are especially dangerous
– “Road gators” (tire debris) cause thousands of accidents annually
**Common Causes in Houston County:**
– Underinflated tires causing overheating
– Overloaded vehicles exceeding tire capacity
– Worn or aging tires not replaced
– Road debris punctures (common on rural roads)
– Manufacturing defects
– Improper tire matching on dual wheels
– Heat buildup on long hauls (especially in Texas summers)
– Inadequate pre-trip tire inspections
**Evidence We Gather:**
– Tire maintenance and inspection records
– Tire age and wear documentation
– Tire inflation records and pressure checks
– Vehicle weight records (weigh station)
– Tire manufacturer and purchase records
– Failed tire for defect analysis
### Rollover Accidents
**What Happens:**
The 18-wheeler tips onto its side or roof. Due to the truck’s high center of gravity and massive weight, rollovers are among the most catastrophic trucking accidents.
**Common Causes in Houston County:**
– Speeding on curves (especially on rural roads)
– Taking turns too sharply at excessive speed
– Improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo
– Liquid cargo “slosh” shifting center of gravity
– Overcorrection after tire blowout or lane departure
– Driver fatigue causing delayed reaction
– Road design defects (inadequate banking on curves)
**Evidence We Gather:**
– ECM data for speed through curve
– Cargo manifest and securement documentation
– Load distribution records
– Driver training records on rollover prevention
– Road geometry and signage analysis
– Witness statements on truck speed
### Blind Spot Collisions (No-Zone Accidents)
**The Four No-Zones:**
1. **Front No-Zone:** 20 feet directly in front of the cab
2. **Rear No-Zone:** 30 feet behind the trailer
3. **Left Side No-Zone:** Extends from cab door backward
4. **Right Side No-Zone:** Extends from cab door backward (largest blind spot)
**Common Causes in Houston County:**
– Failure to check mirrors before lane changes
– Improperly adjusted or damaged mirrors
– Inadequate mirror checking during sustained maneuvers
– Driver distraction during lane changes
– Failure to use turn signals
– Driver fatigue affecting situational awareness
**Evidence We Gather:**
– Mirror condition and adjustment at time of crash
– Lane change data from ECM/telematics
– Turn signal activation records
– Driver training on blind spot awareness
– Dashcam footage
– Witness statements on truck behavior
### Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)
**What Happens:**
The truck swings wide (often to the left) before making a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing or striking the vehicle that entered the gap.
**Why Trucks Make Wide Turns:**
– Trailers track inside the path of the cab
– Drivers must swing wide to avoid curbs, signs, or buildings
– Limited visibility of trailer position
**Common Causes in Houston County:**
– Failure to properly signal turning intention
– Inadequate mirror checks before and during turn
– Improper turn technique
– Driver inexperience with trailer tracking
– Failure to yield right-of-way when completing turn
– Poor intersection design forcing wide turns
**Evidence We Gather:**
– Turn signal activation data from ECM
– Mirror condition and adjustment records
– Driver training records on turning procedures
– Intersection geometry analysis
– Witness statements on turn execution
– Surveillance camera footage from nearby businesses
### Brake Failure Accidents
**What Happens:**
The truck’s braking system fails or underperforms, preventing the driver from stopping in time to avoid a collision.
**Statistics:**
– Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes
– Brake system violations are among the most common FMCSA out-of-service violations
**Common Causes in Houston County:**
– Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
– Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
– Air brake system leaks or failures
– Overheated brakes (brake fade) on long descents
– Contaminated brake fluid
– Defective brake components
– Failure to conduct pre-trip brake inspections
– Deferred maintenance to save costs
**Evidence We Gather:**
– Brake inspection and maintenance records
– Out-of-service inspection history
– ECM data showing brake application and effectiveness
– Post-crash brake system analysis
– Driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs)
– Mechanic work orders and parts records
### Driver Fatigue/Falling Asleep Accidents
**What Happens:**
The driver becomes too tired to operate the vehicle safely, leading to lane departures, rear-end collisions, or complete loss of control.
**Statistics:**
– Fatigue is a factor in 13% of all large truck crashes
– Drivers who violate hours-of-service rules are 2.7 times more likely to be involved in fatigue-related crashes
**Common Causes in Houston County:**
– Hours of service violations
– Sleep apnea or other sleep disorders
– Pressure from carrier to meet deadlines
– Driving during natural sleep periods
– Inadequate rest breaks
– Long hours on rural roads with limited stimulation
**Evidence We Gather:**
– ELD data showing hours of service violations
– Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
– Driver medical records (sleep apnea, etc.)
– Cell phone records showing late-night driving
– Witness statements about driver behavior
– ECM data showing erratic driving patterns
### Distracted Driving Accidents
**What Happens:**
The driver is distracted by cell phones, dispatch communications, or other activities, leading to delayed reaction times and loss of control.
**FMCSA Regulations:**
– Prohibits texting while driving (49 CFR § 392.80)
– Prohibits hand-held mobile phone use (49 CFR § 392.82)
– Prohibits reaching for phones in a way that requires leaving seated position
**Common Causes in Houston County:**
– Texting while driving
– Using dispatch devices or GPS
– Eating or drinking while driving
– Adjusting vehicle controls
– External distractions (billboards, scenery)
– Fatigue-related distraction
**Evidence We Gather:**
– Cell phone records
– ELD data showing erratic driving patterns
– Witness statements about driver behavior
– Dashcam footage
– Dispatch communication records
– ECM data showing delayed reactions
### Impaired Driving Accidents
**What Happens:**
The driver operates the vehicle under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription medications that impair driving ability.
**FMCSA Regulations:**
– Prohibits alcohol use within 4 hours of driving (49 CFR § 392.5)
– Prohibits alcohol use while driving
– Prohibits driving with BAC of .04 or higher
– Prohibits possession of alcohol while on duty
– Prohibits use of Schedule I substances
– Prohibits use of other substances that impair driving ability
**Common Causes in Houston County:**
– Alcohol use before or during driving
– Illegal drug use (marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine)
– Misuse of prescription medications
– Over-the-counter medication misuse
– Failure to recognize medication side effects
**Evidence We Gather:**
– Drug and alcohol test results
– Medical records showing medication use
– Witness statements about driver behavior
– Dashcam footage
– Dispatch records showing erratic behavior
– Previous violation history
### Cargo Spill/Hazmat Incidents
**What Happens:**
Improperly secured cargo falls from the truck, shifts during transport causing instability, or hazardous materials spill onto the roadway.
**Types:**
– **Cargo Shift:** Load moves during transit, destabilizing truck
– **Cargo Spill:** Load falls from truck onto roadway
– **Hazmat Spill:** Hazardous materials leak or spill, creating additional dangers
**Common Causes in Houston County:**
– Inadequate tiedowns (insufficient number or strength)
– Improper loading distribution
– Failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats
– Tiedown failure due to wear or damage
– Overloading beyond securement capacity
– Failure to re-inspect cargo during trip
– Loose tarps allowing cargo shift
**Evidence We Gather:**
– Cargo securement inspection photos
– Bill of lading and cargo manifest
– Loading company records
– Tiedown specifications and condition
– 49 CFR 393 compliance documentation
– Driver training on cargo securement
### Head-On Collisions
**What Happens:**
The truck crosses into oncoming traffic and strikes vehicles traveling in the opposite direction.
**Statistics:**
– Head-on collisions are among the deadliest accident types
– Even at moderate combined speeds, the force is often fatal
**Common Causes in Houston County:**
– Driver fatigue causing lane departure
– Driver falling asleep at the wheel
– Driver distraction
– Impaired driving
– Medical emergency (heart attack, seizure)
– Overcorrection after running off road
– Passing on two-lane roads
– Wrong-way entry onto divided highways
**Evidence We Gather:**
– ELD data for HOS compliance and fatigue
– ECM data showing lane departure and steering
– Cell phone records for distraction
– Driver medical records and certification
– Drug and alcohol test results
– Dispatch records and route information
> *”Every type of 18-wheeler accident we see in Houston County has one thing in common: they were preventable. Trucking companies cut corners on safety, drivers violate regulations, and innocent people pay the price. That’s why we fight so hard for our clients – to make these companies pay for the harm they cause.”*
> — Ralph Manginello
## The Damages You Can Recover in a Houston County Trucking Case
### Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)
| **Category** | **What’s Included** |
|————-|———————|
| **Medical Expenses** | Past, present, and future medical costs including:
– Emergency room treatment
– Hospitalization
– Surgeries
– Doctor visits
– Physical therapy
– Prescription medications
– Medical equipment
– Home modifications |
| **Lost Wages** | Income lost due to injury and recovery including:
– Time missed from work
– Vacation and sick leave used
– Bonuses or commissions lost |
| **Lost Earning Capacity** | Reduction in future earning ability including:
– Inability to return to previous job
– Reduced work hours
– Career change due to disability
– Early retirement due to injuries |
| **Property Damage** | Repair or replacement of your vehicle and personal property including:
– Vehicle damage
– Personal items in vehicle
– Rental car expenses |
| **Out-of-Pocket Expenses** | Other accident-related expenses including:
– Transportation to medical appointments
– Home modifications
– Childcare during recovery
– Household help |
| **Life Care Costs** | Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries including:
– Home health aides
– Medical equipment
– Modifications to home
– Transportation needs |
### Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)
| **Category** | **What’s Included** |
|————-|———————|
| **Pain and Suffering** | Physical pain from injuries including:
– Immediate pain after accident
– Ongoing pain during recovery
– Chronic pain from permanent injuries |
| **Mental Anguish** | Psychological trauma including:
– Anxiety and depression
– PTSD
– Fear of driving
– Sleep disturbances
– Loss of enjoyment of life |
| **Disfigurement** | Permanent scarring or physical changes including:
– Burn scars
– Amputation scars
– Surgical scars
– Facial injuries |
| **Loss of Consortium** | Impact on marriage and family relationships including:
– Loss of companionship
– Loss of affection
– Loss of intimacy
– Loss of household services |
| **Physical Impairment** | Reduced physical capabilities including:
– Loss of mobility
– Loss of strength
– Loss of coordination
– Chronic limitations |
| **Loss of Enjoyment** | Inability to participate in activities you enjoyed including:
– Sports and recreation
– Hobbies
– Travel
– Social activities |
### Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence)
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 Punitive Damages Cap:**
– Greater of (2 × economic damages + non-economic damages up to $750,000) OR $200,000
> *”When trucking companies act with reckless disregard for safety, Texas law allows juries to punish them with punitive damages. We’ve seen verdicts in the hundreds of millions when companies put profits over people.”*
> — Ralph Manginello
## What Your Houston County Trucking Accident Case Might Be Worth
Case values depend on many factors, but here are the settlement ranges we see in Texas trucking cases:
### Catastrophic Injury Cases
| **Injury Type** | **Settlement Range** | **Notes** |
|—————-|———————-|———–|
| **Traumatic Brain Injury (Mod-Severe)** | $1,548,000 – $9,838,000+ | Includes cognitive impairment, personality changes, long-term care |
| **Spinal Cord Injury (Paraplegia)** | $4,770,000 – $15,000,000+ | Lifetime care costs drive high values |
| **Spinal Cord Injury (Quadriplegia)** | $8,000,000 – $25,880,000+ | Highest value due to complete disability |
| **Amputation** | $1,945,000 – $8,630,000 | Includes prosthetics, rehabilitation, loss of function |
| **Severe Burns (3rd/4th Degree)** | $2,000,000 – $10,000,000+ | Multiple surgeries, permanent scarring, psychological trauma |
| **Wrongful Death** | $1,910,000 – $9,520,000+ | Depends on decedent’s earning capacity and dependents |
### Serious Injury Cases
| **Injury Type** | **Settlement Range** | **Notes** |
|—————-|———————-|———–|
| **Herniated Disc (Surgery Required)** | $346,000 – $1,205,000 | Multiple disc involvement increases value |
| **Broken Bones (Surgery Required)** | $132,000 – $328,000 | Complex fractures, hardware installation |
| **Internal Organ Damage** | $200,000 – $1,000,000+ | Depends on organ, surgeries required, long-term impact |
### Moderate Injury Cases
| **Injury Type** | **Settlement Range** | **Notes** |
|—————-|———————-|———–|
| **Soft Tissue Injuries** | $15,000 – $60,000 | Whiplash, sprains, strains |
| **Moderate Back/Neck Injuries** | $50,000 – $200,000 | Non-surgical treatment cases |
| **Scarring/Disfigurement** | $50,000 – $500,000+ | Facial scarring commands higher values |
### Factors That Increase Case Value
– **Clear liability** – The trucking company is obviously at fault
– **Severe injuries** – Catastrophic injuries justify higher compensation
– **Permanent disability** – Injuries that affect lifelong earning capacity
– **Gross negligence** – Evidence of reckless behavior justifies punitive damages
– **Deep pockets** – Trucking companies have higher insurance limits
– **Multiple defendants** – More parties share responsibility
– **Strong evidence** – ECM data, ELD logs, witness statements
– **Sympathetic plaintiff** – Juries award more for likable victims
– **Venue** – Some Houston County courts are more plaintiff-friendly
### Factors That Decrease Case Value
– **Shared fault** – Texas’ comparative negligence rules reduce recovery
– **Pre-existing conditions** – Insurance companies argue injuries existed before accident
– **Limited insurance** – Some drivers carry only minimum coverage
– **Weak evidence** – Cases with disputed liability are harder to prove
– **Unsympathetic plaintiff** – Juries award less for difficult clients
– **Minor injuries** – Cases with full recovery have lower values
– **Delay in treatment** – Gaps in medical care hurt credibility
> *”We’ve recovered millions for Houston County families devastated by trucking accidents. But every case is unique. The only way to know what your case is worth is to let us evaluate it.”*
> — Attorney911 Team
## The Trucking Accident Legal Process in Houston County
### 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 client 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 ELD/black box data downloads
– Request driver’s paper log books (backup documentation)
– Obtain complete Driver Qualification File from carrier
– Request all truck maintenance and inspection records
– Obtain carrier’s CSA safety scores and inspection history
– Order driver’s complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
– Subpoena driver’s cell phone records
– Obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules
### Phase 3: Expert Analysis
– Accident reconstruction specialist creates crash analysis
– Medical experts establish causation and future care needs
– Vocational experts calculate lost earning capacity
– Economic experts determine present value of all damages
– Life care planners develop comprehensive care plans for catastrophic injuries
– FMCSA regulation experts identify all violations
### Phase 4: Litigation Strategy
– File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires (2 years in Texas)
– Pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
– Depose truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, maintenance personnel
– Build case for trial while negotiating settlement from position of strength
– **Prepare every case as if going to trial** (creates leverage in negotiations)
### Phase 5: Resolution
– **Settlement:** The vast majority of cases settle before trial
– **Mediation:** Court-ordered settlement conference with neutral mediator
– **Trial:** If settlement isn’t possible, we take your case to verdict
> *”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.”*
> — Ralph Manginello
## Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Houston County Trucking Case?
### 1. We’re Houston County Trucking Accident Specialists
We don’t handle just any personal injury cases. We specialize in **18-wheeler and commercial trucking accidents**. This specialization gives us deep knowledge of:
– FMCSA regulations and how to prove violations
– Trucking industry practices and corporate structures
– Complex multi-party liability issues
– Commercial insurance policies and coverage limits
– Trucking company tactics and how to counter them
> *”When you’re hurt in a trucking accident, you don’t need a general personal injury lawyer. You need specialists who understand the trucking industry inside and out. That’s what we are.”*
> — Ralph Manginello
### 2. We Have Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics
Our associate attorney, **Lupe Peña**, spent years working for a **national insurance defense firm** before joining Attorney911. He knows exactly how insurance companies:
– Evaluate and minimize claims
– Train adjusters to lowball victims
– Use recorded statements against accident victims
– Delay and deny legitimate claims
– Value cases using software like Colossus
Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.
> *”Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.”*
> — Attorney911 Team
### 3. We Have a Proven Track Record of Multi-Million Dollar Results
We’ve recovered **over $50 million** for injury victims, including:
– **$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
### 4. We’re Admitted to Federal Court – Critical for Trucking Cases
Many trucking cases involve **interstate commerce**, which means they can be filed in **federal court**. We’re admitted to the **U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas**, giving us the ability to handle these complex cases.
### 5. We Have the Resources to Fight Big Trucking Companies
Trucking cases require significant resources:
– Accident reconstruction experts
– Medical experts
– Vocational experts
– Economic experts
– Life care planners
– FMCSA regulation experts
We have the financial resources and professional network to build the strongest possible case for you.
### 6. We Offer Fluent Spanish-Language Services
Houston County has a significant Hispanic population, and many truck drivers are Spanish-speaking. Our associate attorney **Lupe Peña** is **fluent in Spanish**, allowing us to serve Spanish-speaking clients directly without interpreters.
> *”Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.”*
> — Attorney911 Team
### 7. We Treat You Like Family, Not a Case Number
We understand that after a trucking accident, you’re going through one of the most difficult times of your life. That’s why we treat every client like family:
– We answer your calls and respond promptly
– We keep you informed every step of the way
– We listen to your concerns and address your questions
– We fight aggressively for the compensation you deserve
> *”You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”*
> — Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client
### 8. We Work on Contingency – You Pay Nothing Unless We Win
We believe that **everyone deserves access to justice**, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we work on a **contingency fee basis**:
– You pay **nothing upfront**
– We advance all costs of investigation and litigation
– We only get paid if we win your case
– Our fee comes from the settlement, not your pocket
> *”No fee unless we win. Zero risk. 1-888-ATTY-911.”*
> — Attorney911 Team
### 9. We Have Offices in Houston County’s Backyard
With offices in **Houston, Austin, and Beaumont**, we’re never far from Houston County. Our proximity means:
– We can respond quickly to accident scenes
– We know the local courts and judges
– We understand Houston County’s trucking corridors
– We’re available for in-person meetings when needed
### 10. We Have 25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies
Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since **1998**. In that time, we’ve:
– Taken on some of the largest trucking companies in America
– Recovered millions for Houston County families
– Built a reputation as attorneys who **aren’t afraid to go to trial**
– Developed insider knowledge of the trucking industry
> *”Ralph Manginello has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against the largest trucking companies in America. Here’s how we do it.”*
> — Attorney911 Team
## What Our Houston County Clients Say About Us
> *”They treated me like FAMILY, not just another case number.”*
> — MONGO SLADE
> *”One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”*
> — Donald Wilcox
> *”I lost everything… my car was at a total loss, and because of Attorney Manginello and my case worker Leonor, 1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.”*
> — Kiimarii Yup
> *”They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”*
> — Glenda Walker
> *”Ralph took his bogus case and had it dismissed within a WEEK! I have been trying for over 2 years.”*
> — Beth Bonds
> *”Ralph Manginello is indeed the best attorney I ever had. He cares greatly about his results.”*
> — AMAZIAH A.T.
> *”Mr. Maginello and his firm are first class. Will fight tooth and nail for you.”*
> — Ernest Cano
> *”Mr. Manginello guided me through the whole process with great expertise… tenacious, accessible, and determined throughout the 19 months.”*
> — Jamin Marroquin
> *”Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer… Ralph reached out personally.”*
> — Dame Haskett
> *”You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”*
> — Chad Harris
> *”In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”*
> — Greg Garcia
> *”They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”*
> — Angel Walle
> *”Leonor got me into the doctor the same day… it only took 6 months amazing.”*
> — Chavodrian Miles
> *”Leonor is the best!!! She was able to assist me with my case within 6 months.”*
> — Tymesha Galloway
> *”When I felt I had no hope or direction, Leonor reached out to me… She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.”*
> — Stephanie Hernandez
> *”Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.”*
> — Celia Dominguez
> *”One of Houston’s Great Men Trae Tha Truth has recommended this law firm. So if he is vouching for them then I know they do good work.”*
> — Jacqueline Johnson
## Frequently Asked Questions About Houston County Trucking Accidents
### Immediate After-Accident Questions
**What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Houston County?**
If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Houston County, take these steps immediately if you’re able:
– Call 911 and report the accident
– Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
– Document the scene with photos and video if possible
– Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
– Collect witness contact information
– Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
– Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911
**Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?**
YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Houston County hospitals like **Crocket Medical Center** and **East Texas Medical Center** can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.
**What information should I collect at the truck accident scene in Houston County?**
Document everything possible:
– Truck and trailer license plates
– DOT number (on truck door)
– Trucking company name and logo
– Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
– Photos of all vehicle damage
– Photos of the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks
– Photos of your injuries
– Witness names and phone numbers
– Responding officer’s name and badge number
– Weather and road conditions
**Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?**
NO. Do not give any recorded statements. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests.
**How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney in Houston County?**
IMMEDIATELY – within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence in trucking cases (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.
**What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?**
A spoliation letter is a legal notice demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. This includes ECM/black box data, ELD logs, maintenance records, driver files, and more. Sending this letter immediately puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.
### Trucking Company & Driver Questions
**Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Houston County?**
Multiple parties may be liable in trucking accidents:
– The truck driver
– The trucking company/motor carrier
– The cargo owner or shipper
– The company that loaded the cargo
– Truck or parts manufacturers
– Maintenance companies
– Freight brokers
– The truck owner (if different from carrier)
– Government entities (for road defects)
We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.
**Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?**
Usually YES. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for:
– Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified drivers)
– Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
– Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
– Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)
**What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?**
Texas uses a **modified comparative negligence** system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs – the data tells the true story.
**What is an owner-operator and does that affect my case?**
An owner-operator is a driver who owns their own truck and contracts with trucking companies. This can complicate liability, but both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.
**How do I find out if the trucking company has a bad safety record?**
FMCSA maintains public safety data at **safer.fmcsa.dot.gov**. We obtain the carrier’s:
– CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
– Inspection history and out-of-service rates
– Crash history
– Safety rating
A poor safety record can prove the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on the road.
### Evidence & Investigation Questions
**What is a truck’s “black box” and how does it help my case?**
Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data – similar to airplane black boxes but for trucks. This data can show:
– Speed before and during the crash
– Brake application timing
– Engine RPM and throttle position
– Whether cruise control was engaged
– GPS location
This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.
**What is an ELD and why is it important?**
Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are federally mandated devices that record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued. Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents.
**How long does the trucking company keep black box and ELD data?**
ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention for ELD data. This is why we send spoliation letters immediately – once we notify them of litigation, they must preserve everything.
**What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?**
We pursue:
– ECM/Black box data
– ELD records
– Driver Qualification File
– Maintenance records
– Inspection reports
– Dispatch logs
– Drug and alcohol test results
– Training records
– Cell phone records
– Insurance policies
– The physical truck and trailer
**Can the trucking company destroy evidence?**
Once they’re on notice of potential litigation, destroying evidence is spoliation – a serious legal violation. Courts can:
– Instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable
– Impose monetary sanctions
– Enter default judgment in extreme cases
– Award punitive damages
### FMCSA Regulations Questions
**What are hours of service regulations and how do violations cause accidents?**
FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:
– Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 hours off
– Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
– 30-minute break required after 8 hours driving
– 60/70 hour weekly limits
Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. Drivers who violate these rules are too tired to react safely.
**What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?**
The top violations we find:
– Hours of service violations (driving too long)
– False log entries (lying about driving time)
– Brake system deficiencies
– Cargo securement failures
– Drug and alcohol violations
– Unqualified drivers (no valid CDL or medical certificate)
– Failure to inspect vehicles
**What is a Driver Qualification File and why does it matter?**
FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a file for every driver containing:
– Employment application
– Driving record check
– Previous employer verification
– Medical certification
– Drug test results
– Training documentation
Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.
**How do pre-trip inspections relate to my accident case?**
Drivers must inspect their trucks before every trip. If they failed to conduct inspections or ignored known defects (bad brakes, worn tires, lighting problems), both the driver and company may be liable for negligence.
### Injury & Medical Questions
**What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in Houston County?**
Due to the massive size and weight disparity, trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries:
– Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
– Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
– Amputations
– Severe burns
– Internal organ damage
– Multiple fractures
– Wrongful death
**How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Houston County?**
Case values depend on many factors:
– Severity of injuries
– Medical expenses (past and future)
– Lost income and earning capacity
– Pain and suffering
– Degree of defendant’s negligence
– Insurance coverage available
Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents. We’ve seen verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions.
**What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in Houston County?**
Texas allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover:
– Lost future income
– Loss of companionship and guidance
– Mental anguish
– Funeral expenses
– Punitive damages if gross negligence
Time limits apply – contact us immediately to protect your rights.
### Legal Process Questions
**How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Houston County?**
The statute of limitations in Texas is **2 years** from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.
**How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?**
Timelines vary:
– Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
– Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
– Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years
We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.
**Will my trucking accident case go to trial?**
Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to trial – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys. We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way if necessary.
**Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?**
NO. We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.
### Insurance Questions
**How much insurance do trucking companies carry?**
Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:
– $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
– $1,000,000 for oil, large equipment
– $5,000,000 for hazardous materials
Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.
**What if multiple insurance policies apply to my accident?**
Trucking cases often involve multiple policies:
– Motor carrier’s liability policy
– Trailer interchange coverage
– Cargo insurance
– Owner-operator’s policy
– Excess/umbrella coverage
We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.
**Will the trucking company’s insurance try to settle quickly?**
Often yes – and that’s a red flag. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.
## Houston County Trucking Corridors: Where Accidents Happen
Houston County sits at a critical crossroads of Texas trucking routes. Our position along major freight corridors creates unique risks for drivers:
### US Highway 287
– **Primary route** through the heart of Houston County
– **Connects** major distribution hubs in East Texas
– **High truck volume** serving agricultural and timber industries
– **Rural stretches** with limited law enforcement presence
– **Common accident types:** Rear-end collisions, fatigue-related crashes, cargo spills
### State Highway 19
– **Major north-south route** through Houston County
– **Heavy truck traffic** serving local industries
– **Rural sections** with limited shoulders and lighting
– **Common accident types:** Head-on collisions, rollovers, tire blowouts
### State Highway 7
– **East-west corridor** through southern Houston County
– **Timber industry traffic** with oversized loads
– **Curves and elevation changes** create hazards
– **Common accident types:** Jackknife accidents, brake failures, cargo securement failures
### County Roads
– **Agricultural traffic** with slow-moving vehicles
– **Limited maintenance** on some rural roads
– **Unpaved sections** create dust and visibility issues
– **Common accident types:** Blind spot collisions, wide turn accidents, rear-end collisions
### The I-45 Corridor (Nearby)
– **Major north-south interstate** west of Houston County
– **Heavy truck traffic** between Houston and Dallas
– **Common accident types:** Underride collisions, fatigue-related crashes, multi-vehicle pileups
### The I-10 Corridor (Nearby)
– **Major east-west interstate** south of Houston County
– **Port of Houston traffic** moving through the region
– **Common accident types:** Cargo spills, hazmat incidents, rear-end collisions
> *”We know Houston County’s trucking corridors like the back of our hand. We know where accidents are most likely to happen, where drivers are most likely to violate hours-of-service regulations, and where cargo might be improperly secured. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.”*
> — Ralph Manginello
## The Trucking Companies We’ve Fought in Houston County and Beyond
Attorney911 has experience taking on some of the largest trucking companies in America:
– Walmart trucking operations
– Coca-Cola distribution vehicles
– Amazon delivery trucks
– FedEx trucks
– UPS trucks
– Various commercial trucking companies
– Oil field trucking operations
– Agricultural haulers
– Timber industry carriers
> *”We’ve seen what these companies do after an accident. And we know how to stop them.”*
> — Ralph Manginello
## What to Do Next: Your Houston County Trucking Accident Action Plan
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Houston County, follow this action plan:
### Step 1: Call Attorney911 Immediately
– **1-888-ATTY-911** (toll-free)
– **(713) 528-9070** (direct)
– We answer 24/7 and can dispatch investigators to the scene
### Step 2: Preserve Evidence
– Do NOT speak to insurance adjusters
– Do NOT post on social media
– Do NOT sign anything without consulting us
– Keep all medical records and bills
– Document your injuries with photos
– Keep a pain journal
### Step 3: Focus on Your Recovery
– Follow all medical advice
– Attend all follow-up appointments
– Document how your injuries affect your daily life
– Keep records of all expenses related to the accident
### Step 4: Let Us Handle the Rest
– We’ll send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
– We’ll investigate all potentially liable parties
– We’ll gather and analyze all available evidence
– We’ll negotiate with insurance companies
– We’ll prepare your case for trial if necessary
– We’ll fight for the maximum compensation you deserve
> *”Your fight starts with one call: 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer. We fight. We win.”*
> — Attorney911 Team
## The Attorney911 Promise to Houston County Trucking Accident Victims
When you choose Attorney911 for your Houston County trucking accident case, you’re not just hiring a law firm – you’re gaining a team of dedicated advocates who will:
1. **Fight for Maximum Compensation** – We’ll pursue every dollar you deserve for your injuries
2. **Preserve Critical Evidence** – We act immediately to protect evidence before it disappears
3. **Hold ALL Responsible Parties Accountable** – We investigate every potential defendant
4. **Level the Playing Field** – We have the resources to fight big trucking companies
5. **Communicate Clearly** – We’ll keep you informed every step of the way
6. **Treat You Like Family** – We understand what you’re going through and will support you
7. **Work on Contingency** – You pay nothing unless we win your case
8. **Go to Trial if Necessary** – We’re not afraid to take your case to court
## Houston County Trucking Accident Resources
### Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers
– **Crocket Medical Center** – 1100 E Loop 304, Crockett, TX 75835
– **East Texas Medical Center** – 1001 S 4th St, Crockett, TX 75835
– **Memorial Medical Center Livingston** (nearby) – 1717 Hwy 59 Loop N, Livingston, TX 77351
– **Huntsville Memorial Hospital** (nearby) – 110 Memorial Hospital Dr, Huntsville, TX 77340
### Local Law Enforcement
– **Houston County Sheriff’s Office** – 100 S Grand Ave, Crockett, TX 75835
– **Crockett Police Department** – 304 E Houston Ave, Crockett, TX 75835
– **Grapeland Police Department** – 115 N Main St, Grapeland, TX 75844
– **Kennard Police Department** – 103 Main St, Kennard, TX 75847
– **Latexo Police Department** – 100 Main St, Latexo, TX 75849
– **Lovelady Police Department** – 107 E Trinity St, Lovelady, TX 75851
### Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)
– **TxDOT Tyler District Office** (serves Houston County) – 2709 W Front St, Tyler, TX 75702
– **TxDOT Crash Reporting System** – [https://cris.dot.state.tx.us](https://cris.dot.state.tx.us)
– **TxDOT Road Conditions** – [https://drivetexas.org](https://drivetexas.org)
### Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
– **FMCSA Website** – [https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov](https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov)
– **FMCSA Safety Measurement System** – [https://ai.fmcsa.dot.gov/sms](https://ai.fmcsa.dot.gov/sms)
– **FMCSA Company Snapshot** – [https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov](https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov)
### Legal Resources
– **Texas State Bar Lawyer Referral Service** – [https://www.texasbar.com/lris](https://www.texasbar.com/lris)
– **Texas RioGrande Legal Aid** (for low-income individuals) – [https://www.trla.org](https://www.trla.org)
– **Houston County Courthouse** – 401 E Houston Ave, Crockett, TX 75835
## Final Words: You Deserve Justice
If you’re reading this after a trucking accident in Houston County, you’re likely facing:
– Mounting medical bills
– Lost income from missed work
– Physical pain and emotional trauma
– Uncertainty about your future
– Powerful trucking companies trying to minimize your claim
You didn’t ask for this. You didn’t deserve this. But you **do deserve justice**.
At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for Houston County families devastated by trucking accidents. We know the regulations. We know the tactics. We know how to win.
**Your fight starts with one call: 1-888-ATTY-911**
We’re ready to answer 24/7. We’re ready to fight for you. And we’re ready to make the trucking companies pay for what they’ve done to you and your family.
> *”They hit you. We hit back.”*
> — Attorney911 Team
**Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free consultation.** The sooner you call, the sooner we can start building your case and fighting for the compensation you deserve.
