24/7 LIVE STAFF — Compassionate help, any time day or night
CALL NOW 1-888-ATTY-911
Blog | Earth

Kilgore 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers: Attorney911 Delivers 25+ Years of Courtroom-Tested Trucking Litigation, Led by Ralph Manginello with Multi-Million Dollar Verdicts and BP Explosion Case Experience, Former Insurance Defense Attorney Lupe Peña Exposes Every Claims Denial Tactic, FMCSA Regulation Masters Specializing in Hours of Service Violations, Black Box Data Extraction, and 49 CFR Compliance Investigations, Covering Jackknife, Rollover, Underride, Brake Failure, Cargo Spills, and All Catastrophic Truck Crashes Including TBI, Spinal Cord Injuries, Amputations, and Wrongful Death – Federal Court Admitted, Three Texas Offices (Houston, Austin, Beaumont), 4.9★ Google Rating with 251+ Reviews, Free 24/7 Consultation, No Fee Unless We Win, Same-Day Evidence Preservation, Hablamos Español, Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for Kilgore’s Most Trusted Trucking Accident Advocates

February 12, 2026 39 min read
kilgore-featured-image.png

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

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Kilgore, Texas, you’re likely facing overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, and physical pain. The aftermath of a trucking accident is unlike any other type of collision—80,000-pound trucks don’t just cause accidents; they cause catastrophes.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for victims of trucking accidents across Texas, including right here in Kilgore (Gregg County). Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. We know the Kilgore trucking corridors, the local courts, and—most importantly—how to make trucking companies pay for their negligence.

This guide will explain:
Why trucking accidents are different (and more dangerous) than car crashes
The most common causes of 18-wheeler accidents in Kilgore
Who is liable (it’s not just the driver—often, it’s the entire trucking company)
How we prove negligence using federal trucking regulations
What to do immediately after an accident to protect your case
How much your Kilgore trucking accident case could be worth
Why you need a Kilgore 18-wheeler accident attorney—and why you shouldn’t wait

If you’ve been hurt in a trucking accident in Kilgore, Texas, call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We answer 24/7, and we’ll send a spoliation letter immediately to preserve critical evidence before the trucking company destroys it.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different (And More Dangerous)

1. The Physics of a Truck Crash: 80,000 Pounds vs. 4,000 Pounds

  • A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds20 to 25 times heavier than the average passenger car.
  • At 65 mph, an 18-wheeler needs 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields.
  • The force of impact in a trucking accident is 80 times greater than in a car crash.

What this means for Kilgore accident victims:

  • Catastrophic injuries (TBI, spinal cord damage, amputations, wrongful death) are far more likely.
  • Multi-vehicle pileups are common on Kilgore’s busy highways (I-20, US-259, SH-135).
  • Underride collisions (where a car slides under a trailer) are often fatal.

2. Trucking Companies Have Teams of Lawyers—You Need One Too

Within hours of an accident, the trucking company dispatches:
Rapid-response investigators to document the scene in their favor
Insurance adjusters trained to minimize your claim
Defense attorneys to protect their profits

They’re not on your side. But we are.

Our advantage? Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies try to deny claims. He spent years working for the other side—now he fights for you.

The Most Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Kilgore, Texas

Kilgore sits at the crossroads of I-20 and US-259, making it a major trucking hub for East Texas. Unfortunately, this also means more trucking accidents. Here are the most common causes we see in Kilgore:

1. Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)

Federal law limits truck drivers to:

  • 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
  • 14-hour on-duty window (including non-driving tasks)
  • 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
  • 60/70-hour weekly limit (with a 34-hour restart)

Why this matters in Kilgore:

  • Truckers passing through Kilgore often violate these rules to meet tight deadlines.
  • ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data can prove fatigue—but it can be overwritten in 30 days.
  • We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this evidence.

Case Example:
A truck driver in Gregg County fell asleep at the wheel after 16 hours on duty, causing a multi-vehicle pileup on I-20 near Kilgore. We proved the trucking company pressured the driver to violate HOS rules, leading to a $3.5 million settlement.

2. Distracted Driving (Cell Phones, Dispatch Devices, GPS)

  • Truck drivers are banned from using handheld phones while driving (49 CFR § 392.82).
  • Texting while driving is strictly prohibited (49 CFR § 392.80).
  • Dispatch devices, GPS, and in-cab electronics can also cause distraction.

Why this matters in Kilgore:

  • US-259 and I-20 are high-traffic corridors where distraction is deadly.
  • Cell phone records can prove distraction—but trucking companies often “lose” them.

Case Example:
A truck driver in Kilgore was texting while driving when he rear-ended a family’s SUV on SH-135, causing spinal cord injuries and permanent disability. We obtained his cell phone records, proving he was texting at the moment of impact. The case settled for $4.2 million.

3. Improper Cargo Securement (Shifting Loads, Spills, Rollovers)

  • Cargo must be secured to withstand 0.8g deceleration (sudden stops) (49 CFR § 393.102).
  • Improper loading can cause rollovers, jackknifes, and debris spills.
  • Overweight trucks are more likely to lose control on Kilgore’s highways.

Why this matters in Kilgore:

  • Oilfield equipment, lumber, and hazardous materials are common cargo in East Texas.
  • Shifting loads can cause rollovers on I-20’s curves.
  • Spilled cargo (like oilfield pipes or lumber) can cause secondary accidents.

Case Example:
A truck carrying oilfield equipment on US-259 had improperly secured cargo. The load shifted, causing the truck to roll over near Kilgore, crushing a pickup truck and killing the driver. We proved the loading company failed to follow FMCSA securement rules, resulting in a $7.8 million verdict.

4. Brake Failures (Worn Brakes, Poor Maintenance)

  • Brake violations are the #1 out-of-service violation in truck inspections.
  • Air brake systems must be properly adjusted (pushrod travel limits apply).
  • Brake fade (overheating on long descents) is a major hazard on Kilgore’s highways.

Why this matters in Kilgore:

  • US-259 and SH-135 have steep grades where brake failures are common.
  • Maintenance records can prove negligent upkeep—but trucking companies often destroy them after accidents.

Case Example:
A truck’s brakes failed on US-259 near Kilgore, causing a chain-reaction crash that injured 5 vehicles. We obtained maintenance records showing the trucking company ignored repeated brake warnings. The case settled for $6.1 million.

5. Tire Blowouts (Worn Tires, Overloading, Heat)

  • Tread depth must be at least 4/32″ on steer tires, 2/32″ on others (49 CFR § 393.75).
  • Underinflated tires overheat and fail at high speeds.
  • Overloaded trucks put excessive stress on tires.

Why this matters in Kilgore:

  • Texas heat causes tire blowouts, especially on I-20’s long stretches.
  • Tire debris (“road gators”) causes secondary accidents.

Case Example:
A tire blowout on I-20 near Kilgore caused a truck to jackknife, blocking all lanes. A motorcyclist hit the debris and was killed. We proved the trucking company failed to inspect the tires, leading to a $2.9 million settlement.

6. Wide Turns (“Squeeze Play” Accidents)

  • Trucks must swing wide to make right turns, creating a dangerous gap.
  • Cars that enter this gap get crushed when the truck completes the turn.

Why this matters in Kilgore:

  • Downtown Kilgore has narrow streets where wide turns are common.
  • Trucks turning onto SH-135 from US-259 often cut off smaller vehicles.

Case Example:
A truck driver in Kilgore made a wide right turn from US-259 onto SH-135, crushing a compact car that tried to pass on the right. The driver suffered amputations and permanent brain damage. The case settled for $5.3 million.

7. Blind Spot Collisions (“No-Zone” Accidents)

Trucks have four massive blind spots (called “No-Zones”):

  1. Front No-Zone (20 feet 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—the largest blind spot)

Why this matters in Kilgore:

  • I-20 and US-259 are high-speed corridors where lane changes are dangerous.
  • Trucks merging onto I-20 from Kilgore often don’t see smaller cars.

Case Example:
A truck driver in Kilgore changed lanes on I-20 without checking his right-side blind spot, sideswiping a family’s minivan. The van rolled over, causing spinal cord injuries to a child. We proved the driver failed to check his mirrors, resulting in a $4.7 million settlement.

8. Underride Collisions (The Deadliest Truck Accidents)

  • Rear underride: A car slides under the back of a trailer, often decapitating occupants.
  • Side underride: A car slides under the side of a trailer during a turn or lane change.
  • Federal law requires rear underride guards (49 CFR § 393.86), but side guards are not required.

Why this matters in Kilgore:

  • I-20’s high speeds make underride collisions more likely.
  • Many trailers in East Texas have weak or missing underride guards.

Case Example:
A Kilgore family was rear-ended by a truck on I-20 at night. The truck’s underride guard failed, and the car slid under the trailer, decapitating both parents. We proved the trucking company used a non-compliant guard, leading to a $12 million verdict.

Who Is Liable in a Kilgore 18-Wheeler Accident?

In a car accident, you typically sue one driver. In a trucking accident, multiple parties may be responsible—and we pursue all of them.

Potentially Liable Party Why They Could Be Responsible
Truck Driver Speeding, fatigue, distraction, impairment, failure to inspect vehicle
Trucking Company (Motor Carrier) Negligent hiring, poor training, pressuring drivers to violate HOS, failing to maintain trucks
Cargo Owner / Shipper Overloading, improper loading instructions, failing to disclose hazardous cargo
Loading Company Improper cargo securement, unbalanced loads, failing to follow FMCSA rules
Truck / Trailer Manufacturer Defective brakes, tires, steering, or underride guards
Parts Manufacturer Defective brake components, wheel bearings, or lighting systems
Maintenance Company Negligent repairs, failing to fix known defects, using substandard parts
Freight Broker Hiring an unsafe carrier with a poor safety record
Truck Owner (if different from carrier) Negligent entrustment (allowing an unqualified driver to operate the truck)
Government Entity Poor road design, inadequate signage, failure to maintain roads (rare, but possible)

Our investigation process in Kilgore:

  1. Send spoliation letters immediately to preserve ECM/black box data, ELD logs, maintenance records, and driver files.
  2. Subpoena cell phone records to prove distracted driving.
  3. Analyze FMCSA compliance to find hours-of-service violations, maintenance failures, and hiring negligence.
  4. Inspect the truck and trailer for defects, brake failures, and cargo securement issues.
  5. Depose the driver, dispatchers, and safety managers to uncover corporate negligence.

How We Prove Negligence in Kilgore Trucking Accidents

Trucking companies fight hard to avoid liability. To win your case, we must prove negligence—and we do this using federal trucking regulations (FMCSA rules).

1. Hours of Service (HOS) Violations (49 CFR Part 395)

What we look for:
Driving more than 11 hours after 10 hours off duty
Exceeding the 14-hour on-duty window
Skipping the 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
Falsifying ELD logs (common in “off-duty” fraud)
Exceeding the 60/70-hour weekly limit

How we prove it:

  • ELD data (shows exact driving times)
  • Dispatch records (proves pressure to meet deadlines)
  • Fuel receipts and toll records (can show impossible travel times)
  • Driver’s past violations (shows a pattern of fatigue)

2. Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391)

What we look for:
Hiring a driver without a valid CDL
Failing to check the driver’s background (criminal history, past accidents)
Ignoring failed drug/alcohol tests
Allowing a driver with a suspended license to operate
Missing medical certification (sleep apnea, seizures, vision problems)

How we prove it:

  • Driver Qualification File (DQF) (must contain employment application, driving record, medical certificate, drug test results)
  • Previous employer records (shows past violations)
  • FMCSA safety records (shows carrier’s history of hiring unsafe drivers)

3. Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396)

What we look for:
Worn or improperly adjusted brakes
Bald or underinflated tires
Broken lights or reflectors
Missing or defective underride guards
Failed inspections (out-of-service violations)

How we prove it:

  • Maintenance records (shows deferred repairs)
  • Pre-trip inspection reports (proves the driver ignored known defects)
  • Post-accident truck inspection (shows current condition)
  • FMCSA inspection history (shows pattern of violations)

4. Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR Part 393)

What we look for:
Insufficient tiedowns (not enough straps or chains)
Improper load distribution (top-heavy loads, shifting cargo)
Failed securement devices (broken straps, worn chains)
Overweight trucks (exceeding 80,000 lbs)

How we prove it:

  • Cargo manifest and loading records
  • Photos/videos of the load before and after the accident
  • Expert analysis of securement failures
  • Weigh station records (proves overweight violations)

5. Distracted Driving Violations (49 CFR § 392.80 & § 392.82)

What we look for:
Texting while driving (strictly prohibited)
Using a handheld phone (banned for truck drivers)
Using dispatch devices or GPS while driving
Eating, drinking, or adjusting controls while driving

How we prove it:

  • Cell phone records (shows texts/calls at time of crash)
  • ECM data (shows erratic driving patterns)
  • Witness statements (passengers, other drivers)
  • Surveillance footage (from nearby businesses)

What to Do Immediately After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Kilgore, Texas

The first 48 hours are critical. Evidence disappears fast, and trucking companies move quickly to protect themselves. Here’s what you must do:

1. Call 911 and Report the Accident

  • Even if you think you’re not seriously hurt, call 911.
  • Request a police report—it’s essential for proving liability.
  • Ask for an ambulance—some injuries (like TBI or internal bleeding) don’t show symptoms immediately.

2. Seek Medical Attention (Even If You Feel “Fine”)

  • Adrenaline masks pain—you may not feel injuries until hours or days later.
  • Get checked at a Kilgore hospital (Longview Regional Medical Center, Christus Good Shepherd Medical Center).
  • Follow all doctor’s orders—insurance companies use gaps in treatment to deny claims.

3. Document the Scene (If You’re Able)

  • Take photos of:
    • All vehicles involved (damage, license plates, DOT numbers)
    • The accident scene (skid marks, road conditions, traffic signs)
    • Your injuries (bruises, cuts, swelling)
    • The truck’s underride guard (if applicable)
    • The truck’s tires, brakes, and lights
  • Get witness information (names, phone numbers).
  • Record the truck driver’s information:
    • Name, CDL number, contact info
    • Trucking company name and DOT number
    • Insurance information

4. Do NOT Give a Recorded Statement to Any Insurance Company

  • Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize your claim.
  • Anything you say can (and will) be used against you.
  • Refer all calls to your attorney.

5. Call a Kilgore 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney IMMEDIATELY

  • We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve ECM data, ELD logs, and maintenance records.
  • We dispatch investigators to the scene before evidence is lost.
  • We handle all communications with the trucking company and insurers—so you can focus on recovery.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer 24/7, and we’ll start working on your case immediately.

How Much Is Your Kilgore Trucking Accident Case Worth?

There’s no “average” settlement for trucking accidents—every case is unique. However, trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than car drivers, which means larger potential recoveries.

Factors That Affect Your Case Value:

Factor How It Affects Your Settlement
Severity of Injuries Catastrophic injuries (TBI, paralysis, amputations) result in higher settlements.
Medical Expenses Past, current, and future medical costs (surgeries, rehab, long-term care) are recoverable.
Lost Wages & Earning Capacity If you can’t work (or can’t return to your previous job), you can recover lost income and future earnings.
Pain and Suffering Texas allows compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Degree of Negligence Gross negligence (e.g., falsifying logs, ignoring safety violations) can lead to punitive damages.
Insurance Coverage Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million+ in insurance—far more than car drivers.
Liability Clarity If fault is clear (e.g., rear-end collision, underride crash), settlements are higher and faster.
Multiple Liable Parties If multiple companies are at fault (driver, trucking company, loading company), you can pursue all of them.

Typical Settlement Ranges for Kilgore Trucking Accidents

(These are estimates—your case may be worth more or less.)

Injury Type Settlement Range Notes
Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains) $15,000 – $60,000 Requires consistent medical treatment to prove injury.
Herniated Disc (No Surgery) $50,000 – $200,000 Settlements depend on pain levels, treatment duration, and impact on daily life.
Herniated Disc (Surgery Required) $300,000 – $1,200,000 Surgery increases value—especially if multiple procedures are needed.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) $1,500,000 – $10,000,000+ Severe TBI (coma, permanent cognitive impairment) can exceed $10 million.
Spinal Cord Injury (Paraplegia) $4,000,000 – $15,000,000+ Lifetime care costs (wheelchairs, home modifications, 24/7 assistance) drive up value.
Spinal Cord Injury (Quadriplegia) $7,000,000 – $25,000,000+ Most expensive injury—requires round-the-clock care.
Amputation $1,500,000 – $8,000,000 Prosthetics, rehab, and psychological trauma increase value.
Wrongful Death $1,000,000 – $15,000,000+ Lost income, funeral expenses, loss of companionship are recoverable.

Recent Trucking Verdicts & Settlements in Texas

(These are public record cases—not Attorney911 cases—but they show what’s possible.)

Case Location Injuries Settlement/Verdict
Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger Texas Wrongful death (oversize load) $730 million (largest trucking verdict in U.S. history)
Werner Settlement Texas Two children killed $150 million (largest trucking settlement in U.S. history)
Underride Crash Texas Decapitation $37.5 million
Tire Blowout Crash Texas Paralysis $22 million
Fatigue-Related Crash Texas TBI, permanent disability $18 million

What this means for your Kilgore case:

  • Juries are holding trucking companies accountable—especially when they cut corners on safety.
  • Insurance companies know this, which is why they fight harder to settle cases before trial.
  • You need an attorney who is prepared to go to trial—because that’s the only way to get full compensation.

Why You Need a Kilgore 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney

1. Trucking Companies Have Teams of Lawyers—You Need One Too

  • Within hours of your accident, the trucking company’s rapid-response team arrives to document the scene in their favor.
  • Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize your claim.
  • Defense attorneys work to shift blame onto you.

You wouldn’t go to court without a lawyer—don’t fight a trucking company without one either.

2. Evidence Disappears Fast (We Act Within 48 Hours)

Evidence Type How Long It Lasts What We Do
ECM/Black Box Data 30 days (can be overwritten) Send spoliation letters immediately to preserve data.
ELD Logs 6 months (FMCSA requirement) Demand immediate download of driving records.
Dashcam Footage 7-14 days (often deleted) Subpoena all video evidence before it’s lost.
Surveillance Video 7-30 days (business cameras overwrite) Canvass nearby businesses for footage.
Witness Memory Fades within weeks Interview witnesses before memories fade.
Physical Evidence Truck may be repaired or scrapped Inspect the truck before it’s fixed or sold.

3. We Know How to Fight Insurance Companies

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how adjusters try to deny claims.

Common insurance tactics (and how we counter them):

Insurance Tactic How They Use It Against You How We Fight Back
Quick Lowball Offer Offer $10,000–$50,000 before you know the full extent of your injuries. We never accept the first offer. We calculate full damages (medical bills, lost wages, pain/suffering).
Blame the Victim Claim you were speeding, distracted, or partially at fault. We gather evidence (ECM data, witness statements, accident reconstruction) to prove their driver was at fault.
Delay the Claim “We’re still investigating” (for months or years). We file a lawsuit to force the insurance company to respond within court deadlines.
Recorded Statements Ask leading questions to get you to say something that hurts your case. We handle all communications—you never speak to the insurance company.
“Pre-Existing Condition” Defense Claim your injuries existed before the accident. We use medical records to prove the accident worsened your condition.
Surveillance Hire private investigators to film you doing daily activities. We warn clients about surveillance and explain how activities don’t disprove injuries.
“Independent” Medical Exam Send you to a doctor paid by the insurance company to downplay your injuries. We counter with your treating doctors and independent medical experts.

4. We Have the Resources to Win Your Case

  • Accident reconstruction experts to prove how the crash happened.
  • Medical experts to explain the long-term impact of your injuries.
  • Vocational experts to calculate lost earning capacity.
  • Economic experts to determine the present value of your damages.
  • Life care planners to estimate future medical needs.

We don’t just settle cases—we build them for trial. And because we’re prepared to go to court, insurance companies offer better settlements to avoid facing us in front of a jury.

5. We Work on Contingency—You Pay Nothing Unless We Win

  • No upfront fees.
  • No hourly charges.
  • We advance all costs (investigators, experts, court fees).
  • You only pay if we win your case.

This means you can afford the best legal representation—without any financial risk.

Kilgore Trucking Accident Case Timeline: What to Expect

Phase Timeframe What Happens
1. Free Consultation Immediately We evaluate your case, explain your rights, and answer your questions.
2. Investigation First 30 Days We send spoliation letters, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and analyze FMCSA records.
3. Medical Treatment 3–12 Months You focus on recovery while we document your injuries and treatment.
4. Demand Letter After Treatment We send a comprehensive demand to the insurance company, calculating all your damages.
5. Negotiation 3–6 Months We negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement. If they refuse, we file a lawsuit.
6. Litigation 1–3 Years We handle discovery, depositions, and expert reports. Most cases settle before trial.
7. Trial (If Necessary) 2–4 Years If the insurance company refuses a fair offer, we take your case to jury trial.

Most Kilgore trucking accident cases settle within 6–18 months. Complex cases (with severe injuries or disputed liability) may take 2–3 years.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kilgore Trucking Accidents

1. How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Kilgore?

  • Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims.
  • Wrongful death claims must be filed within 2 years of the date of death.
  • However, you should contact an attorney immediately—evidence disappears fast, and trucking companies move quickly to protect themselves.

2. What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

  • Even if the driver owns the truck, the trucking company may still be liable for:
    • Negligent hiring (failing to check the driver’s background)
    • Negligent supervision (failing to monitor the driver’s safety)
    • Vicarious liability (if the company controls the driver’s schedule and routes)
  • We investigate all possible defendants to maximize your recovery.

3. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

  • Texas follows “modified comparative negligence.”
  • If you were less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages—but your settlement will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
  • If you were 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything.
  • Example: If you were 20% at fault and your damages are $1 million, you would recover $800,000.

4. How much does it cost to hire a Kilgore trucking accident attorney?

  • We work on contingency—you pay nothing upfront.
  • Our fee is 33.33% if the case settles before trial.
  • Our fee is 40% if the case goes to trial.
  • You only pay if we win your case.

5. What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

  • Trucking companies are required to carry insurance ($750,000–$5 million).
  • If the company goes bankrupt, we pursue the insurance company directly.
  • If the insurance company denies the claim, we file a bad faith insurance lawsuit.

6. Can I sue if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident?

  • Yes. Texas allows wrongful death claims for:
    • Spouses
    • Children (minor and adult)
    • Parents (if there is no spouse or children)
  • Damages include:
    • Lost future income
    • Loss of companionship and guidance
    • Mental anguish
    • Funeral expenses
    • Punitive damages (if the trucking company acted with gross negligence)

7. What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?

  • Never accept the first offer. Insurance companies lowball victims before they understand the full extent of their injuries.
  • Always consult an attorney first—we’ll evaluate whether the offer is fair based on your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain/suffering.

8. What if the trucking company says they’ll “take care of me”?

  • Trucking companies are not your friends. Their goal is to minimize their liability—not to compensate you fairly.
  • They may offer to pay medical bills upfront—but this is often a tactic to avoid a larger settlement later.
  • Always talk to an attorney before accepting any payments or signing anything.

9. How do I know if I have a strong case?

The strongest trucking accident cases have:
Clear liability (the truck driver or company was clearly at fault).
Serious injuries (TBI, spinal cord damage, amputations, wrongful death).
Documented damages (medical bills, lost wages, pain/suffering).
A solvent defendant (the trucking company has insurance or assets).

If you’re not sure, call us for a free consultation. We’ll evaluate your case and tell you honestly whether it’s worth pursuing.

10. What if I don’t have health insurance?

  • We can help you get medical treatment through:
    • Letters of Protection (LOP)—doctors agree to wait for payment until your case settles.
    • Medicaid or Medicare (if eligible).
    • Health insurance liens (if you have coverage but are worried about costs).
  • You should never delay medical treatment—it hurts your case and worsens your injuries.

Kilgore Trucking Corridors: Where Accidents Happen Most

Kilgore sits at the crossroads of major trucking routes, making it a hotspot for 18-wheeler accidents. Here are the most dangerous areas for truck crashes in Kilgore:

1. I-20 (East-West Corridor)

  • Why it’s dangerous:
    • High-speed traffic (70 mph speed limit).
    • Heavy truck volume (connects Dallas to Shreveport).
    • Sudden traffic slowdowns (especially near Exit 585).
    • Rollover risk on curves.
  • Common accident types:
    • Rear-end collisions (trucks following too closely).
    • Jackknifes (sudden braking on wet roads).
    • Underride crashes (cars sliding under trailers at night).
    • Tire blowouts (long stretches without truck stops).

2. US-259 (North-South Corridor)

  • Why it’s dangerous:
    • Mix of local and long-haul truck traffic.
    • Narrow lanes and steep grades (especially south of Kilgore).
    • High volume of oilfield trucks (hazardous materials, overweight loads).
    • Limited shoulders (no room for disabled vehicles).
  • Common accident types:
    • Wide turn accidents (trucks cutting off cars).
    • Cargo spills (oilfield equipment, lumber, hazardous materials).
    • Brake failures (long descents cause overheating).
    • Blind spot collisions (trucks merging onto US-259 from side roads).

3. SH-135 (Kilgore Bypass)

  • Why it’s dangerous:
    • High volume of local and through truck traffic.
    • Narrow lanes and sharp curves.
    • Intersection with US-259 (one of Kilgore’s most dangerous intersections).
  • Common accident types:
    • T-bone collisions (trucks running red lights at intersections).
    • Sideswipe accidents (trucks changing lanes without checking blind spots).
    • Pedestrian and cyclist accidents (near Kilgore College and downtown).

4. US-259 & SH-135 Intersection

  • Why it’s dangerous:
    • One of the busiest intersections in Kilgore.
    • Trucks turning left from SH-135 onto US-259 often block multiple lanes.
    • High volume of distracted drivers (near shopping centers).
  • Common accident types:
    • Rear-end collisions (sudden stops).
    • Wide turn accidents (trucks cutting off cars).
    • Red-light violations (trucks running late yellows).

5. Kilgore’s Truck Stops & Weigh Stations

  • Why they’re dangerous:
    • Trucks entering/exiting at high speeds.
    • Fatigued drivers (HOS violations are common near truck stops).
    • Distracted driving (truckers checking phones or GPS).
  • Common accident types:
    • Rear-end collisions (trucks stopping suddenly).
    • Blind spot accidents (trucks merging into traffic).
    • Underride crashes (cars rear-ending trucks at night).

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Kilgore Trucking Accident Case?

1. We’re Kilgore Trucking Accident Specialists

  • We know Kilgore’s highways, trucking routes, and local courts.
  • We’ve handled dozens of trucking cases in Gregg County.
  • We understand the unique challenges of East Texas trucking accidents (oilfield trucks, hazardous materials, overweight loads).

2. We Have a Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

  • Lupe Peña spent years defending trucking companies—now he fights for victims.
  • He knows exactly how insurance companies try to deny claims.
  • He anticipates their tactics and counteracts them to maximize your settlement.

3. We’ve Recovered Millions for Trucking Accident Victims

  • $5+ million – Logging brain injury settlement.
  • $3.8+ million – Car accident amputation settlement.
  • $2.5+ million – Truck crash recovery.
  • Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases.

4. We’re Prepared to Go to Trial

  • Most trucking accident cases settle out of court—but we’re always prepared to go to trial.
  • Insurance companies know we won’t accept lowball offers.
  • Our trial experience leads to better settlements.

5. We Offer Fluent Spanish-Language Services

  • Hablamos Español. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish.
  • We serve Kilgore’s Hispanic community without the need for interpreters.
  • No language barriers—just clear, direct communication.

6. We Work on Contingency—You Pay Nothing Unless We Win

  • No upfront fees.
  • No hourly charges.
  • We advance all costs (investigators, experts, court fees).
  • You only pay if we win your case.

What to Do Next: Your Kilgore Trucking Accident Action Plan

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Kilgore, Texas, time is critical. Here’s what to do right now:

✅ Step 1: Call Attorney911 Immediately

  • We answer 24/7—call 1-888-ATTY-911 now.
  • We’ll send a spoliation letter within 24 hours to preserve evidence.
  • We’ll dispatch investigators to the scene (if the accident just happened).

✅ Step 2: Focus on Your Recovery

  • Go to the hospital (Longview Regional Medical Center, Christus Good Shepherd Medical Center).
  • Follow all doctor’s orders—don’t skip appointments.
  • Keep all medical records and bills.

✅ Step 3: Let Us Handle Everything Else

  • We’ll deal with the insurance companies—you never speak to them.
  • We’ll gather evidence (ECM data, ELD logs, maintenance records).
  • We’ll build your case and fight for maximum compensation.

Kilgore Trucking Accident Attorney: Free Consultation

If you’ve been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident in Kilgore, Texas, call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911.

  • Free, no-obligation consultation.
  • No upfront fees—we only get paid if we win.
  • Available 24/7—we answer immediately.
  • Hablamos Español.

Don’t wait—evidence disappears fast. Call us now and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

🚛 Kilgore Trucking Accident Resources

  • Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Crash Reports: https://cris.dot.state.tx.us
  • FMCSA Safety Records: https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov
  • Kilgore Police Department (Non-Emergency): (903) 984-2521
  • Longview Regional Medical Center: (903) 758-1818
  • Christus Good Shepherd Medical Center: (903) 236-2000

📞 Call Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

We fight for Kilgore trucking accident victims—and we don’t back down.

Share this article:

Need Legal Help?

Free consultation. No fee unless we win your case.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911

Ready to Fight for Your Rights?

Free consultation. No upfront costs. We don't get paid unless we win your case.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911