18-Wheeler Accidents in Josephine, Texas: Your Complete Legal Guide

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Josephine, Texas, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. The aftermath of a commercial truck crash can leave you with devastating injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about your future. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we’re here to help Josephine families navigate this difficult time.

Why Josephine’s Highways Are Particularly Dangerous

Josephine sits at a critical juncture in Northeast Texas, where major trucking corridors converge. The intersection of US Highway 69 and FM 1562 creates a high-risk zone for commercial vehicle accidents. Trucks traveling between Dallas, Sherman, and points north frequently pass through Josephine, often carrying heavy loads that can become deadly projectiles when not properly secured.

The rural nature of Hunt County means many truck drivers push their hours of service limits to reach their destinations. Long stretches of open highway can lull drivers into complacency, while sudden traffic slowdowns near Josephine’s small-town center catch them unprepared. The mix of local commuter traffic with heavy commercial vehicles creates a dangerous environment that requires specialized legal knowledge to navigate.

What Makes 18-Wheeler Accidents Different

Unlike typical car accidents, commercial truck crashes involve complex legal and regulatory issues that require immediate attention. Here’s why your Josephine 18-wheeler accident case needs specialized handling:

The Physics of Destruction

An 80,000-pound fully loaded 18-wheeler carries approximately 20-25 times the weight of your passenger vehicle. At highway speeds, this creates catastrophic force that overwhelms even the safest cars. The stopping distance for a commercial truck at 65 mph is nearly 525 feet – almost two football fields – meaning truck drivers have far less time to react to changing conditions on Josephine’s roads.

Federal Regulations That Protect You

The trucking industry is governed by strict federal regulations designed to keep our highways safe. These include:

• Hours of Service Rules (49 CFR Part 395): Drivers are limited to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, with mandatory 30-minute breaks after 8 hours of driving
• Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR Part 391): Carriers must maintain complete qualification files for every driver
• Vehicle Maintenance Requirements (49 CFR Part 396): Trucks must be systematically inspected and maintained
• Cargo Securement Rules (49 CFR Part 393): Specific standards for how cargo must be secured to prevent spills and shifts

When trucking companies violate these regulations, they create dangerous conditions that lead to preventable accidents. Our team knows how to uncover these violations and use them to build your case.

Multiple Liable Parties

In a typical car accident, you might only need to deal with one at-fault driver and their insurance company. But in 18-wheeler accidents, multiple parties can share responsibility:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company (motor carrier)
• The cargo owner or shipper
• The company that loaded the cargo
• Truck or trailer manufacturers
• Parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers
• The truck owner (if different from the carrier)
• Government entities (for road defects)

Each of these parties may have separate insurance policies with different coverage limits. Our experienced attorneys know how to identify all potentially liable parties to maximize your recovery.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Josephine

Understanding what caused your accident is crucial to building a strong case. Here are the most common causes we see in Josephine and Hunt County:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Truck drivers face immense pressure to meet delivery deadlines. Many push beyond their legal limits, driving while exhausted. Federal regulations limit drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, but we frequently find violations in Josephine cases.

The rural nature of Hunt County means drivers may falsify their logs to claim they were “off duty” while actually resting in their sleeper berths. Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) have made this harder, but some drivers still find ways to circumvent the system. When fatigue leads to an accident, both the driver and the trucking company can be held liable.

Improper Maintenance and Brake Failures

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. Josephine’s mix of highway speeds and sudden stops near town centers puts particular stress on braking systems. Common maintenance failures include:

• Worn brake pads or shoes
• Improper brake adjustments
• Air brake system leaks
• Overheated brakes on long descents
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Defective brake components

When we investigate Josephine truck accidents, we always examine maintenance records to determine if deferred maintenance contributed to the crash.

Cargo Securement Failures

Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable and potentially roll over. In Josephine, we’ve seen cases where:

• Agricultural equipment wasn’t properly secured
• Steel coils shifted, causing loss of control
• Lumber loads weren’t properly blocked and braced
• Liquid cargo sloshed, creating instability

Cargo securement violations are among the most common FMCSA violations we find in Josephine cases. When cargo spills onto the roadway, it creates hazards for other vehicles that can lead to catastrophic accidents.

Distracted and Impaired Driving

Despite strict regulations, distracted and impaired driving remain serious problems in the trucking industry. Common distractions in Josephine cases include:

• Cell phone use (texting, calls, GPS)
• Dispatch communications
• Eating and drinking while driving
• Fatigue (a form of impairment)
• Alcohol or drug use

Texas law prohibits commercial drivers from using hand-held phones while driving, but we still see violations in Josephine cases. When distraction or impairment causes an accident, the consequences are often severe.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Truck drivers who exceed speed limits or drive too fast for conditions put everyone on Josephine’s roads at risk. Common speed-related issues include:

• Following too closely
• Failing to reduce speed in construction zones
• Driving too fast for weather conditions
• Speeding to meet delivery deadlines

The long stretches of US 69 near Josephine can encourage speeding, while sudden traffic slowdowns near town create rear-end collision hazards.

Underride Accidents

Underride accidents occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler. These are among the most deadly types of truck accidents, often resulting in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries.

Josephine’s mix of local traffic and commercial vehicles creates underride risks, particularly at intersections where trucks make wide turns. While rear underride guards are federally mandated, side underride guards are not, creating a serious safety gap.

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents We Handle in Josephine

Our team has experience with all types of commercial vehicle accidents that occur in Josephine and throughout Hunt County:

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer swings out to the side, forming an angle with the cab that resembles a folding pocket knife. These often happen when:

• The driver brakes suddenly on wet or icy roads
• The trailer is empty or lightly loaded (more prone to swing)
• The driver loses control on curves
• The brakes fail or are improperly adjusted

Jackknife accidents on US 69 near Josephine can block multiple lanes of traffic, creating secondary collisions.

Rollover Accidents

Rollover accidents are particularly dangerous in Josephine because they often occur on high-speed routes where trucks are traveling at 65+ mph. Common causes include:

• Taking curves too fast (especially on highway ramps)
• Improperly secured cargo that shifts during transit
• Liquid cargo that sloshes, changing the center of gravity
• Overcorrection after a tire blowout or lane departure
• Driving while fatigued or distracted

When a truck rolls over in Josephine, it often spills cargo across the roadway, creating hazards for other vehicles.

Underride Collisions

Underride accidents are among the most deadly truck crashes. They occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler. There are two main types:

• Rear Underride: When a vehicle strikes the back of a trailer
• Side Underride: When a vehicle strikes the side of a trailer during lane changes or turns

Josephine’s intersections create particular risks for side underride accidents. While rear underride guards are federally mandated, side underride guards are not, despite their potential to save lives.

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions are particularly dangerous when an 18-wheeler is the striking vehicle. Due to their massive weight and longer stopping distances, truck rear-end collisions often cause catastrophic injuries. Common causes in Josephine include:

• Following too closely
• Driver distraction
• Driver fatigue
• Brake failures
• Speeding for conditions

The sudden traffic slowdowns near Josephine’s town center create particular hazards for rear-end collisions.

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Wide turn accidents, also known as “squeeze play” accidents, occur when a truck swings wide to make a turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. When the truck completes its turn, it crushes or strikes the vehicle that entered the gap.

These accidents are common in Josephine at intersections where trucks need to make wide right turns. Drivers who aren’t familiar with truck turning patterns may misjudge the space available.

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)

Commercial trucks have significant blind spots, known as “No-Zones,” where the driver cannot see other vehicles. The four main No-Zones are:

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 the cab door backward
4. Right Side No-Zone: Extends from the cab door backward and is much larger than the left side

The right side No-Zone is particularly dangerous in Josephine, where trucks frequently change lanes on US 69.

Tire Blowout Accidents

Tire blowouts can cause truck drivers to lose control, leading to jackknife accidents, rollovers, or collisions with other vehicles. Common causes include:

• Underinflated tires
• Overloaded vehicles
• Worn or aging tires
• Road debris
• Manufacturing defects
• Improper tire matching on dual wheels

The heat and long highway stretches near Josephine can contribute to tire failures.

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake failures are a leading cause of truck accidents. When a truck’s braking system fails, the driver may be unable to stop in time to avoid a collision. Common brake-related issues include:

• Worn brake pads or shoes
• Improper brake adjustments
• Air brake system leaks
• Overheated brakes
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Defective components

Josephine’s mix of highway speeds and sudden stops creates particular stress on braking systems.

Catastrophic Injuries from Josephine 18-Wheeler Accidents

The force involved in 18-wheeler accidents often results in catastrophic injuries that change lives forever. At Attorney911, we’ve helped Josephine families recover compensation for:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In truck accidents, this often happens when the head strikes the steering wheel, dashboard, or window. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe, life-altering injuries.

Symptoms may include:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory loss and confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes and depression
• Sleep disturbances
• Speech difficulties
• Personality changes

Long-term consequences can include:

• Permanent cognitive impairment
• Inability to work
• Need for ongoing care and supervision
• Increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s
• Emotional and psychological disorders

The lifetime care costs for severe TBI can exceed $3 million.

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Spinal cord injuries disrupt communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis. The level of injury determines the extent of paralysis:

• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
• Incomplete Injury: Some nerve function remains
• Complete Injury: No nerve function below the injury

Josephine families affected by spinal cord injuries face lifetime care costs ranging from $1.1 million for low paraplegia to over $5 million for high quadriplegia.

Amputations

Amputations can occur at the scene due to the crushing forces of a truck accident or may be necessary later due to severe tissue damage or infection. Common amputations in truck accidents include:

• Traumatic amputation at the scene
• Surgical amputation due to irreparable damage
• Amputations due to severe burns
• Amputations due to infections from open wounds

The lifetime costs of amputation can exceed $1 million, including prosthetics, rehabilitation, and home modifications.

Severe Burns

Burns in truck accidents can result from:

• Fuel tank ruptures and fires
• Hazmat cargo spills and ignition
• Electrical fires from damaged wiring
• Friction burns from road contact
• Chemical burns from hazmat exposure

Burn injuries often require multiple reconstructive surgeries, skin grafts, and extensive rehabilitation. The psychological trauma of disfigurement can be as devastating as the physical injuries.

Internal Organ Damage

The crushing forces of a truck accident can cause severe internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Common internal injuries include:

• Liver lacerations or rupture
• Spleen damage requiring removal
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusions or pneumothorax
• Internal bleeding
• Bowel and intestinal damage

Internal injuries can be life-threatening and require emergency surgery.

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident takes a loved one’s life, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim. In Josephine, wrongful death claims can include:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (spousal companionship)
• Loss of parental guidance for children
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred before death
• Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

Why You Need a Josephine 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney Immediately

After an 18-wheeler accident in Josephine, time is not on your side. Critical evidence disappears quickly, and trucking companies move fast to protect their interests. Here’s why you need to call Attorney911 immediately:

Evidence Disappears Fast

• Black Box Data: ECM/EDR data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days
• ELD Records: Electronic Logging Device data may be retained for only 6 months
• Dashcam Footage: Often deleted within 7-14 days
• Surveillance Video: Business cameras typically overwrite in 7-30 days
• Physical Evidence: Vehicles may be repaired, sold, or scrapped
• Witness Memory: Fades significantly within weeks

Our team sends spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained to preserve this critical evidence before it’s lost forever.

Trucking Companies Protect Their Interests

Before the ambulance arrives, trucking companies have rapid-response teams working to protect their interests. They will:

• Send investigators to the scene
• Interview witnesses before you can
• Download black box data to their advantage
• Pressure drivers to give statements
• Begin building their defense strategy

You need a team that moves just as fast to protect your interests.

Insurance Companies Are Not Your Friends

Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize claims. They will:

• Offer quick, lowball settlements before you understand your injuries
• Record statements to use against you
• Blame you for the accident
• Delay the claims process
• Use surveillance to find evidence against you

Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows all their tactics and how to counter them.

Complex Legal Issues Require Expertise

18-wheeler accident cases involve complex legal and regulatory issues that require specialized knowledge:

• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399)
• Texas comparative negligence laws
• Insurance coverage issues (multiple policies, high limits)
• Multiple liable parties
• Catastrophic injury valuation
• Expert witness requirements
• Complex litigation procedures

Our team has over 25 years of experience handling these complex cases.

Our Josephine 18-Wheeler Accident Investigation Process

At Attorney911, we leave no stone unturned when investigating your Josephine truck accident. Our comprehensive process includes:

Immediate Evidence Preservation

Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we send formal spoliation letters to:

• The trucking company
• Their insurance carrier
• All potentially liable parties

These letters demand preservation of:

• ECM/Black Box data
• ELD records
• Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
• GPS and telematics data
• Dispatch communications
• Cell phone records
• The physical truck and trailer
• Failed or damaged components
• Cargo and securement devices

Comprehensive Evidence Gathering

Our team gathers all available evidence, including:

• Police crash reports
• Photographs and videos from the scene
• Witness statements
• 911 call recordings
• Security camera footage from nearby businesses
• Truck inspection and maintenance records
• Driver qualification files
• Hours of service records
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Cargo documentation
• Previous accident and violation history

Expert Analysis

We work with top experts to analyze the evidence and build your case:

• Accident Reconstruction Specialists: Determine how the accident occurred
• Medical Experts: Establish the extent of your injuries and future care needs
• Vocational Experts: Calculate lost earning capacity
• Economic Experts: Determine the present value of all damages
• Life Care Planners: Develop comprehensive care plans for catastrophic injuries
• FMCSA Regulation Experts: Identify all violations
• Trucking Industry Experts: Analyze carrier practices and industry standards

Liability Determination

We identify all potentially liable parties, which may include:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company (motor carrier)
• The cargo owner or shipper
• The company that loaded the cargo
• Truck or trailer manufacturers
• Parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers
• The truck owner (if different from the carrier)
• Government entities (for road defects)

Damage Calculation

We work with experts to calculate all your damages, including:

• Economic Damages:

  • Past and future medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Lost earning capacity
  • Property damage
  • Out-of-pocket expenses
  • Life care costs

• Non-Economic Damages:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Disfigurement
  • Loss of consortium
  • Physical impairment

• Punitive Damages:

  • In cases of gross negligence or recklessness

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Josephine 18-Wheeler Accident Case

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic truck accident in Josephine, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team with the experience, resources, and dedication to fight for the compensation you deserve. Here’s why Attorney911 is the right choice:

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He has:

• Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for trucking accident victims
• Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Experience in BP explosion litigation against multinational corporations
• Deep familiarity with Josephine’s trucking corridors and accident patterns
• Comprehensive understanding of FMCSA regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399)

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurance companies operate. He understands:

• How insurance companies value claims
• How adjusters are trained to minimize payouts
• What makes them settle
• How they deny claims
• Claims valuation software (Colossus, etc.)

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

Proven Track Record of Results

At Attorney911, we’ve recovered millions for trucking accident 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

Comprehensive Resources

We have the resources to handle even the most complex trucking cases:

• Access to top accident reconstruction experts
• Relationships with medical specialists
• In-house investigation team
• Federal court experience
• Spanish-language services (Hablamos Español)

Personalized Attention

Unlike large billboard firms that treat you like a case number, we treat you like family:

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

Our Josephine clients work directly with our attorneys, not case managers or paralegals. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and address your concerns.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation, so you never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Josephine

If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Josephine, take these steps to protect your health and your legal rights:

At the Scene

1. Call 911 immediately – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek medical attention – Even if you feel okay, get checked out. Adrenaline masks pain, and some injuries aren’t immediately apparent
3. Document everything – Take photos and videos of:
   • All vehicle damage (inside and out)
   • The accident scene (road conditions, skid marks, debris)
   • Your injuries
   • Street signs and traffic signals
   • The truck’s license plate and DOT number
4. Get witness information – Collect names and contact information from anyone who saw the accident
5. Obtain the truck driver’s information – Get their name, CDL number, contact information, and insurance details
6. Get the trucking company’s information – Note the company name, logo, and any identifying information
7. Don’t admit fault – Even saying “I’m sorry” can be used against you later
8. Don’t give statements to insurance companies – Politely decline to give recorded statements until you’ve spoken with an attorney

After Leaving the Scene

1. Follow up with medical treatment – Attend all follow-up appointments and follow your doctor’s orders
2. Document your injuries and recovery – Keep a journal of your symptoms, pain levels, and how the injuries affect your daily life
3. Don’t post on social media – Insurance companies will use your posts against you
4. Save all accident-related documents – Police reports, medical records, repair estimates, etc.
5. Contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately – The sooner you call, the stronger your case will be

Frequently Asked Questions About Josephine 18-Wheeler Accidents

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Josephine, 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

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. Josephine hospitals like Hunt Regional Medical Center in Greenville 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 Josephine?

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 Josephine?

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.

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

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 as long as you were 50% or less at fault. 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.

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 an airplane’s black box 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

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

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

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

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

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find:

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

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

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

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

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

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

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

What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in Josephine?

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 Josephine?

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 Josephine?

Texas allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover:

• Lost future income
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish
• Funeral expenses
• Punitive damages if gross negligence

Time limits apply – contact us immediately to protect your rights.

How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Texas?

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

• Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
• Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
• Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys. We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way if necessary.

Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?

NO. We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

How much insurance do trucking companies carry?

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:

• $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
• $1,000,000 for oil, large equipment
• $5,000,000 for hazardous materials

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.

What if multiple insurance policies apply to my accident?

Trucking cases often involve multiple policies:

• Motor carrier’s liability policy
• Trailer interchange coverage
• Cargo insurance
• Owner-operator’s policy
• Excess/umbrella coverage

We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.

Will the trucking company’s insurance try to settle quickly?

Often yes – and that’s a red flag. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Josephine, Texas, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Every hour that passes puts critical evidence at risk and gives the trucking company more time to build their defense.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our Josephine 18-wheeler accident attorneys are available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you understand your legal options.

Remember, we work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. Let us put our 25+ years of experience, insider knowledge of insurance company tactics, and proven track record of results to work for you.

“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, Attorney911 Client

Don’t let the trucking company take advantage of you. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today and let us fight for the compensation you deserve. Hablamos Español.