Lamb County 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers: Attorney911 Delivers 25+ Years of Courtroom-Tested Trucking Litigation, Led by Ralph P. Manginello – Multi-Million Dollar Verdicts, BP Explosion Litigation Veteran, and Federal Court Admitted Trial Attorney – With Former Insurance Defense Attorney Lupe Peña Exposing Every Denial Tactic, FMCSA Regulation Masters (49 CFR Parts 390-399), Black Box Data Extraction Specialists, and Comprehensive Crash Coverage Including Jackknife, Rollover, Underride, Brake Failure, and Hazmat Incidents – Catastrophic Injury Experts for TBI, Spinal Cord Damage, Amputation, and Wrongful Death Claims – $50+ Million Recovered for Texas Families, Including $5+ Million Brain Injury and $3.8+ Million Amputation Settlements – Free 24/7 Consultation, No Fee Unless We Win, Same-Day Evidence Preservation, Hablamos Español, 1-888-ATTY-911 – Trusted Since 1998 with 4.9★ Google Rating, Featured on ABC13 and Houston Chronicle, and Recommended by Trae Tha Truth – Where Lamb County Trucking Accident Victims Find the Legal Firepower to Fight Back and Win Maximum Compensation

18-Wheeler Accidents in Lamb County: Your Guide to Justice and Recovery

If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Lamb County, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. The physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial uncertainty can feel overwhelming. But you don’t have to face this alone. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we’re here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

The Harsh Reality of Lamb County Trucking Accidents

Lamb County sits at a critical juncture of Texas’s transportation network. While our county may be smaller than metropolitan areas, our highways carry significant truck traffic. The combination of agricultural freight, oilfield equipment, and cross-country haulers creates unique risks for local drivers.

Every year, thousands of 18-wheeler accidents occur on Texas highways. When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. Unlike car accidents, trucking crashes frequently cause:

• Traumatic brain injuries that change lives forever
• Spinal cord damage leading to paralysis
• Amputations from crushing injuries
• Severe burns from fuel fires
• Wrongful death of loved ones

The aftermath of these accidents extends far beyond physical injuries. Medical bills pile up, you may be unable to work, and the emotional toll on your family can be devastating. Meanwhile, the trucking company and their insurance team are already working to protect their interests—not yours.

Why Lamb County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Lamb County’s trucking corridors present unique challenges:

1. Agricultural Trucking: Our county is home to significant agricultural production. Grain trucks, livestock haulers, and farm equipment transport create seasonal traffic patterns that can be unpredictable.

2. Oilfield Equipment: While not as intensive as the Permian Basin, Lamb County sees its share of oilfield equipment transport, including oversized loads that require special permits.

3. Cross-Country Corridors: Trucks traveling between major Texas cities often pass through Lamb County, creating a mix of local and long-haul traffic that requires heightened awareness.

4. Weather Conditions: From summer heat that can cause tire blowouts to sudden thunderstorms that reduce visibility, our weather creates additional hazards for truck drivers and passenger vehicles alike.

5. Limited Emergency Services: In rural areas like ours, emergency response times can be longer, making immediate medical attention even more critical after an accident.

These factors combine to create a complex environment where trucking accidents can happen in an instant—and change lives forever.

What Makes 18-Wheeler Accidents So Dangerous?

The Physics of Destruction

The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks make them inherently dangerous:

• Size Disparity: A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh 20-25 times more than a passenger car. When these massive vehicles collide with smaller cars, the force of impact is devastating.

• Stopping Distance: At 65 mph, a loaded truck needs 525 feet to come to a complete stop—that’s nearly two football fields. Passenger cars can stop in about 300 feet. This difference means trucks often can’t avoid collisions, even when the driver reacts quickly.

• Height and Underride Risks: The height of truck trailers creates a deadly hazard. In crashes, passenger vehicles can slide underneath the trailer, often shearing off the roof and causing catastrophic injuries to occupants. These “underride” accidents are among the most deadly trucking crashes.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Lamb County

While every accident is unique, certain causes appear repeatedly in our cases:

1. Driver Fatigue: Despite federal regulations limiting driving hours, many truck drivers push beyond their limits. The pressure to meet delivery deadlines often overrides safety concerns. Federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations limit drivers to:

   • 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
   • A 14-hour on-duty window
   • Mandatory 30-minute breaks after 8 hours of driving
   • Weekly limits of 60/70 hours

   Violations of these rules are among the most common—and dangerous—practices we see.

2. Distracted Driving: Cell phones, GPS devices, dispatch communications, and even eating while driving divert attention from the road. Federal regulations prohibit hand-held phone use and texting while driving for commercial drivers.

3. Improper Maintenance: Worn brakes, bald tires, faulty lighting, and other maintenance failures contribute to countless accidents. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of all commercial vehicles.

4. Cargo Issues: Improperly loaded or secured cargo can shift during transit, causing instability and rollovers. The FMCSA has detailed cargo securement regulations that specify how different types of cargo must be secured.

5. Speeding and Reckless Driving: Trucks traveling at high speeds are more likely to lose control, especially on curves or in adverse weather conditions. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases stopping distance.

6. Drug and Alcohol Use: Despite strict regulations, some drivers operate under the influence. FMCSA requires random drug and alcohol testing and prohibits drivers from operating with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or higher—half the legal limit for passenger vehicles.

The Most Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Lamb County

Jackknife Accidents

What happens: The trailer swings out to the side, forming an acute angle with the cab, resembling a folding pocket knife.

Why they’re dangerous: The trailer can sweep across multiple lanes of traffic, causing multi-vehicle pileups. Jackknifes are particularly dangerous on rural highways where vehicles may be traveling at higher speeds.

Common causes in Lamb County:

• Sudden braking, especially on wet or gravel roads
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing)
• Improper braking technique
• Speeding on curves or downhill grades
• Brake system failures

Underride Collisions

What happens: A passenger vehicle crashes into the rear or side of a trailer and slides underneath.

Why they’re deadly: The trailer often shears off the roof of the passenger vehicle, causing catastrophic head and neck injuries. These accidents are frequently fatal.

Types:

• Rear underride: Vehicle strikes the back of the trailer
• Side underride: Vehicle impacts the side of the trailer, often during lane changes or turns

Federal requirements: Rear impact guards are required on trailers manufactured after January 26, 1998, but no federal requirement exists for side underride guards—a deadly oversight that advocacy groups are working to change.

Rollover Accidents

What happens: The truck tips onto its side or roof.

Why they’re catastrophic: Rollovers often involve cargo spills, which can create additional hazards. The crushing force of an 80,000-pound truck rolling over can destroy multiple vehicles.

Common causes in Lamb County:

• Speeding on curves or ramps
• Improperly loaded or shifting cargo
• Overcorrection after tire blowouts or lane departures
• Top-heavy loads (common with agricultural equipment)
• Poor road design or inadequate signage

Rear-End Collisions

What happens: A truck strikes the back of another vehicle or a vehicle strikes the back of a truck.

Why they’re severe: Due to the truck’s massive weight, even moderate-speed impacts can cause devastating injuries. Trucks require 40% more stopping distance than passenger vehicles.

Common causes:

• Following too closely (tailgating)
• Driver distraction
• Fatigue and delayed reaction times
• Brake failures
• Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

What happens: A 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 the vehicle in the gap.

Why they’re common in Lamb County: Our county has numerous intersections where trucks must make wide turns, especially when navigating around agricultural equipment or delivering to rural locations.

Common causes:

• Failure to signal properly
• Inadequate mirror checks
• Improper turn technique
• Poor intersection design
• Driver inexperience with trailer tracking

Blind Spot Collisions (“No-Zone” Accidents)

What happens: A truck changes lanes or maneuvers without seeing a vehicle in one of its four major blind spots.

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

Why they’re dangerous: The right-side blind spot is particularly large and dangerous. Many passenger vehicles don’t realize how much area is invisible to truck drivers.

Tire Blowout Accidents

What happens: A tire suddenly fails, causing the driver to lose control.

Why they’re hazardous in Lamb County: Our summer heat and long stretches of highway create ideal conditions for tire blowouts. The debris from a blown tire can also strike following vehicles.

Common causes:

• Underinflated tires
• Overloaded vehicles
• Worn or aging tires
• Road debris punctures
• Manufacturing defects
• Improper tire matching

Brake Failure Accidents

What happens: The truck’s braking system fails or underperforms, preventing the driver from stopping in time.

Why they’re preventable: Brake failures are almost always the result of systematic maintenance neglect. FMCSA regulations require regular inspection and maintenance of brake systems.

Common causes:

• Worn brake pads or shoes
• Improper brake adjustment
• Air brake system leaks
• Overheated brakes (brake fade)
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Defective components

Who Can Be Held Liable for Your Lamb County Trucking Accident?

One of the most important aspects of trucking accident cases is that multiple parties can be held responsible. Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve a web of liable parties. This is good news for victims—it means more potential sources of compensation.

The Truck Driver

The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable for their negligent conduct, including:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, texting)
• Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Traffic law violations

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets and the most responsibility for safety.

Vicarious Liability: Under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment.

Direct Negligence: Trucking companies can also be directly liable for:

• Negligent Hiring: Failing to check the driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
• Negligent Training: Providing inadequate safety training
• Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance and compliance
• Negligent Maintenance: Failing to maintain vehicles in safe condition
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate Hours of Service regulations

The Cargo Owner/Shipper

The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable for:

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous cargo
• Requiring overweight loading
• Pressuring the carrier to expedite beyond safe limits

The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party companies that physically load cargo may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement (violating FMCSA regulations)
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for product defects, including:

• Design defects in brake systems, stability control, or fuel tank placement
• Manufacturing defects causing component failures
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

Parts Manufacturers

Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for:

• Defective brake components
• Defective tires causing blowouts
• Defective steering mechanisms
• Defective lighting components

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers may be liable for:

• Negligent repairs that fail to fix problems
• Failure to identify critical safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard or wrong parts
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Freight Brokers

Freight brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

• Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
• Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
• Failure to check carrier CSA scores
• Selecting the cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may have separate liability for:

• Negligent entrustment of the vehicle
• Failure to maintain owned equipment
• Knowledge of the driver’s unfitness

Government Entities

Federal, state, or local government may be liable in limited circumstances for:

• Dangerous road design that contributed to the accident
• Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
• Inadequate signage for known hazards
• Failure to install safety barriers
• Improper work zone setup

Important Note: Government liability is limited by sovereign immunity laws. Strict notice requirements and short deadlines apply. If you suspect road conditions contributed to your accident, contact us immediately.

The Critical 48-Hour Window: Preserving Evidence in Your Case

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Lamb County, time is not on your side. Evidence disappears quickly, and trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act fast, critical evidence can be lost forever.

Why Evidence Disappears So Quickly

The Spoliation Letter: Your First Line of Defense

A spoliation letter is a formal legal notice sent to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence related to the accident.

Why It’s Critical:

• Puts defendants on legal notice of their preservation obligation
• Creates serious consequences if evidence is destroyed
• Courts can impose sanctions, adverse inferences, or even default judgment for spoliation
• The sooner sent, the more weight it carries

When We Send It:
IMMEDIATELY—within 24-48 hours of being retained. We don’t wait.

What We Demand in the Spoliation Letter

Electronic Data:

• Engine Control Module (ECM) / Electronic Control Unit (ECU) data
• Event Data Recorder (EDR) data
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
• GPS and telematics data
• Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
• Dispatch communications and messaging
• Cell phone records and text messages
• Qualcomm or fleet management system data

Driver Records:

• Complete Driver Qualification File
• Employment application and resume
• Background check and driving record
• Previous employer verification
• Medical certification and exam records
• Drug and alcohol test results (pre-employment and random)
• Training records and certifications
• Previous accident and violation history
• Performance reviews and disciplinary records

Vehicle Records:

• Maintenance and repair records
• Inspection reports (pre-trip, post-trip, annual)
• Out-of-service orders and repairs
• Tire records and replacement history
• Brake inspection and adjustment records
• Parts purchase and installation records

Company Records:

• Hours of service records for 6 months prior
• Dispatch logs and trip records
• Bills of lading and cargo documentation
• Insurance policies
• Safety policies and procedures
• Training curricula
• Hiring and supervision policies

Physical Evidence:

• The truck and trailer themselves
• Failed or damaged components
• Cargo and securement devices
• Tire remnants if blowout involved

ECM/Black Box Data: The Objective Witness

Commercial trucks have electronic systems that continuously record operational data—similar to an airplane’s black box but for trucks.

Types of Electronic Recording:

Critical Data Points We Recover:

• Speed Before Crash: Proves speeding or excessive speed for conditions
• Brake Application: Shows when and how hard brakes were applied
• Throttle Position: Reveals if driver was accelerating or coasting
• Following Distance: Calculated from speed and deceleration data
• Hours of Service: Proves fatigue and HOS violations
• GPS Location: Confirms route and timing
• Fault Codes: May reveal known mechanical issues the driver ignored

Why This Data Wins Cases:

ECM/ELD data is objective and tamper-resistant. It directly contradicts driver claims like “I wasn’t speeding” or “I hit my brakes immediately.” This data has led to multi-million dollar verdicts in trucking cases across Texas.

FMCSA Record Retention Requirements

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires minimum retention periods for various records:

Important: Once we send a preservation demand and litigation is anticipated, the duty to preserve extends beyond these minimum periods. Destroying evidence after receiving our letter can result in:

• Adverse inference instructions (jury told to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable)
• Sanctions and monetary penalties
• Default judgment in extreme cases
• Punitive damages for intentional destruction

The Catastrophic Injuries Caused by 18-Wheeler Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a 4,000-pound car, the results are often devastating.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

What it is: TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In trucking accidents, the extreme forces cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull.

Severity Levels:

Common Symptoms:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory loss and confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes, depression, anxiety
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
• Speech difficulties
• Personality changes

Long-Term Consequences:

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

Lifetime Care Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity

Spinal Cord Injury

What it is: Damage to the spinal cord that disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of Paralysis:

Level of Injury Matters:

• Cervical (neck) injuries: Affect arms, hands, trunk, legs; C1-C4 may require ventilator
• Thoracic (upper back) injuries: Affect trunk and legs
• Lumbar (lower back) injuries: Affect legs and hips
• Sacral (pelvic) injuries: Affect legs, hips, and pelvic organs

Lifetime Care Costs:

• Paraplegia (low): $1.1 million+
• Paraplegia (high): $2.5 million+
• Quadriplegia (low): $3.5 million+
• Quadriplegia (high): $5 million+

These figures represent direct medical costs only—not lost wages, pain and suffering, or loss of quality of life.

Amputation

Types of Amputation:

• Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the scene due to crash forces
• Surgical Amputation: Limb so severely damaged it must be surgically removed

Common in Trucking Accidents Due To:

• Crushing forces from truck impact
• Entrapment requiring amputation for extraction
• Severe burns requiring surgical removal
• Infections from open wounds

Ongoing Medical Needs:

• Initial surgery and hospitalization
• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ per prosthetic)
• Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Occupational therapy for daily living skills
• Psychological counseling

Impact on Life:

• Permanent disability
• Career limitations or total disability
• Phantom limb pain
• Body image and psychological trauma
• Need for home modifications
• Dependency on others for daily activities

Severe Burns

How Burns Occur in Trucking Accidents:

• Fuel tank rupture and fire
• Hazmat cargo spills and ignition
• Electrical fires from battery/wiring damage
• Friction burns from road contact
• Chemical burns from hazmat exposure

Burn Classification:

Long-Term Consequences:

• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Multiple reconstructive surgeries
• Skin graft procedures
• Chronic pain
• Infection risks
• Psychological trauma

Internal Organ Damage

Common Internal Injuries:

• Liver laceration or rupture
• Spleen damage requiring removal
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusion or collapse (pneumothorax)
• Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
• Bowel and intestinal damage

Why Dangerous:

• May not show immediate symptoms
• Internal bleeding can be life-threatening
• Requires emergency surgery
• Organ removal affects long-term health

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can pursue a wrongful death claim. These cases allow recovery of compensation for the losses suffered by the family.

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas:

• Surviving spouse
• Children (minor and adult)
• Parents (if no spouse or children)
• Estate representative (for survival action)

Types of Claims:

• Wrongful Death Action: Compensation for survivors’ losses
• Survival Action: Compensation for decedent’s pain/suffering before death

Damages Available:

• Lost future income and employment benefits
• Loss of consortium (spousal companionship and relationship)
• Loss of parental guidance and nurturing (for surviving children)
• Mental anguish and emotional distress
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred prior to death
• Pain and suffering experienced by decedent before death
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence or malice)

Texas Statute of Limitations: 2 years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit

The Legal Process: What to Expect in Your Lamb County Trucking Case

Step 1: Free Consultation

Your journey begins with a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen to your story, evaluate your case, and explain your legal options. There’s no pressure—just honest advice about whether we can help you.

Step 2: Case Acceptance

If we believe we can help you, we’ll offer to represent you on a contingency fee basis. This means:

• No upfront costs
• No fee unless we win your case
• We advance all investigation and litigation costs

Step 3: Investigation

This is where we build your case. Our investigation includes:

• Immediate Evidence Preservation: Sending spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
• Accident Scene Investigation: Visiting the scene, documenting conditions
• Evidence Gathering: Obtaining ECM/ELD data, maintenance records, driver files
• Witness Interviews: Talking to witnesses before memories fade
• Expert Retention: Hiring accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and others

Step 4: Medical Care Facilitation

We help you get the medical care you need, even if you don’t have health insurance. Options include:

• Treating with your own doctors
• Using medical providers who accept Letters of Protection (LOP)
• Connecting with specialists for your specific injuries

Step 5: Demand Letter

Once we understand the full extent of your injuries and damages, we send a comprehensive demand letter to the trucking company and their insurance carrier. This letter details:

• The facts of the accident
• The negligence of the trucking company and driver
• The full extent of your injuries
• Your medical treatment and prognosis
• Your economic damages (medical bills, lost wages)
• Your non-economic damages (pain and suffering)
• The compensation you’re seeking

Step 6: Negotiation

Most cases settle during this phase. We negotiate aggressively with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate and minimize claims.

Insurance Company Tactics We Counter:

• Quick lowball settlement offers
• Denying or minimizing injuries
• Blaming the victim (comparative fault)
• Delaying the claims process
• Using recorded statements against victims
• “Pre-existing condition” defenses
• “Gap in treatment” attacks
• Sending surveillance investigators
• Hiring “independent” medical examiners
• Drowning plaintiffs in paperwork

Step 7: Litigation (If Necessary)

If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to court. This involves:

• Filing the Lawsuit: Before the 2-year statute of limitations expires
• Discovery: Exchanging information with the defendants
• Depositions: Taking sworn testimony from witnesses
• Motions: Filing legal arguments with the court
• Trial Preparation: Readying your case for presentation to a jury

Step 8: Trial or Settlement

While most cases settle before trial, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready if the case does go to court.

The Compensation You May Be Entitled To

In Texas, trucking accident victims can recover several types of damages:

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

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 Damage Cap: Greater of (2x economic damages + non-economic damages capped at $750,000) OR $200,000

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Lamb County Trucking Case?

25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been representing trucking accident victims since 1998. He has:

• Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for clients
• Taken on Fortune 500 trucking companies like Walmart, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS
• Handled cases involving catastrophic injuries and wrongful death
• Been admitted to practice in federal court (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
• Litigated against major corporations in complex cases like the BP Texas City explosion

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for a national defense firm. He knows:

• How insurance companies value claims
• How adjusters are trained to minimize payouts
• What makes them settle cases
• How they deny claims
• The claims valuation software they use

This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage in building your case and negotiating your settlement.

Proven Track Record of Results

We’ve recovered millions of dollars for trucking accident victims across Texas, 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

Comprehensive Approach to Your Case

We don’t just handle the legal aspects of your case—we support you through every step of your recovery:

• Immediate Evidence Preservation: We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
• Medical Care Coordination: We help you get the treatment you need
• Financial Support: We connect you with resources to help with bills
• Emotional Support: We understand the trauma you’re experiencing
• Full-Spectrum Advocacy: We fight for every dollar you deserve

Local Knowledge of Lamb County

While we handle cases across Texas, we have deep roots in our state. We understand:

• The unique challenges of rural trucking corridors
• The specific highways and intersections where accidents commonly occur
• The local courts and judges who may hear your case
• The economic realities of life in Lamb County

24/7 Availability

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a schedule. That’s why we’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to answer your call. When you need us, we’re here.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means:

• You pay nothing upfront
• We advance all case costs
• You pay no fee unless we win your case
• Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict, not your pocket

What Our Clients Say About Us

Don’t just take our word for it—here’s what our clients say about their experience with Attorney911:

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

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

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client

“I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Manginello law firm were able to help me out.”
— Greg Garcia, Attorney911 Client

“Ralph Manginello is indeed the best attorney I ever had. He cares greatly about his results.”
— AMAZIAH A.T., Attorney911 Client

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer… Ralph reached out personally.”
— Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client

“They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze.”
— MONGO SLADE, Attorney911 Client

Frequently Asked Questions About Lamb County Trucking Accidents

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Lamb County, take these steps immediately if you’re able:

1. Call 911 and report the accident
2. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
3. Document the scene with photos and video if possible
4. Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
5. Collect witness contact information
6. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
7. 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. Lamb County hospitals and clinics 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?

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 Lamb 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.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Lamb 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.

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—and dangerous—practices we see.

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 to prevent fatigue:

• Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 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.

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Lamb 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 Lamb 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.

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.

Don’t Wait—Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Lamb County, time is critical. Evidence disappears quickly, and trucking companies are already working to protect their interests.

At Attorney911, we offer:

• Free consultations—no obligation, no pressure
• 24/7 availability—we answer when you need us
• No fee unless we win—you pay nothing upfront
• 25+ years of experience fighting trucking companies
• Insider knowledge from a former insurance defense attorney
• Local expertise in Lamb County and across Texas

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free case evaluation. Let us put our experience to work for you and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Remember: The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect them. You deserve the same level of representation. Call Attorney911 today.