18-Wheeler Accidents in Lampasas County: Your Complete Legal Guide

The Moment That Changes Everything

The impact was catastrophic. One moment you were driving down Lampasas County’s highways, the next an 80,000-pound 18-wheeler was jackknifing across three lanes of traffic. In that instant, your life changed forever.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Lampasas County, you need more than just medical attention—you need a legal team that understands the unique challenges of trucking cases in our community. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we know exactly what it takes to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

Why Lampasas County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Lampasas County’s position along key Texas trucking corridors creates unique risks for local drivers. Our highways see heavy commercial traffic moving between major distribution centers, oil field operations, and agricultural processing facilities. When accidents happen here, they often involve:

• Fatigued drivers pushing beyond federal hours-of-service limits
• Overloaded trucks exceeding weight restrictions
• Poorly maintained vehicles traveling our rural roads
• Drivers unfamiliar with Lampasas County’s terrain and weather patterns

The trucking companies responsible for these accidents have rapid-response legal teams working to protect their interests. You need a Lampasas County 18-wheeler accident attorney who knows how to fight back.

The Physics of Devastation: Why Truck Crashes Cause Catastrophic Injuries

The numbers don’t lie. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—20 to 25 times more than the average passenger vehicle. At highway speeds, this creates forces that passenger vehicles simply aren’t designed to withstand.

Consider these physics:

• Stopping Distance: An 18-wheeler traveling at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields. A passenger car needs only about 300 feet.
• Impact Force: The kinetic energy of an 80,000-pound truck is roughly 80 times greater than that of a 3,500-pound car.
• Trailer Swing: During a jackknife, the trailer can swing across multiple lanes at speeds that make it nearly impossible for other drivers to avoid.

These forces explain why trucking accidents in Lampasas County so often result in:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord damage and paralysis
• Amputations
• Severe burns
• Internal organ damage
• Wrongful death

Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Lampasas County

Our team has handled every type of trucking accident that occurs on Lampasas County’s roads:

Jackknife Accidents

When a truck’s trailer swings out at a 90-degree angle to the cab, it creates a deadly barrier across multiple lanes. These often occur when drivers brake suddenly on wet or icy roads, or when empty trailers are more prone to swing.

Underride Collisions

Among the most deadly truck accidents, underride collisions occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer. The trailer’s height often shears off the top of the smaller vehicle, causing catastrophic head and neck injuries. Despite federal requirements for rear underride guards, many trailers still lack adequate protection.

Rollover Accidents

Lampasas County’s rural roads with sharp curves and sudden elevation changes create ideal conditions for rollovers. These accidents often result from speeding, improperly loaded cargo, or driver fatigue. When a truck rolls over, it can crush multiple vehicles and spill cargo across the roadway.

Blind Spot Collisions

Trucks have massive blind spots—called “No-Zones”—on all four sides. The right-side blind spot is particularly dangerous, extending from the cab door backward and covering multiple lanes. Many accidents occur when truck drivers change lanes without seeing vehicles in these blind spots.

Wide Turn Accidents

Also known as “squeeze play” accidents, these occur when trucks swing wide to make right turns, creating a gap that other vehicles attempt to enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing the vehicle that entered the gap.

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. Poor maintenance, improper adjustment, or manufacturing defects can all lead to brake failure. When a truck’s brakes fail, the driver often cannot stop in time to avoid a collision.

Tire Blowout Accidents

With 18 tires on a typical 18-wheeler, the risk of blowouts is significant. Underinflation, overloading, manufacturing defects, and road debris can all cause tire failures. When a steer tire (front tire) blows out, the driver can lose control completely.

Cargo Spill Accidents

Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit or fall from the truck entirely. This creates hazards for following vehicles and can cause multi-vehicle pileups. Hazardous materials spills add additional dangers.

Driver Fatigue Accidents

Despite federal hours-of-service regulations, fatigued driving remains a leading cause of truck accidents. Drivers pushing beyond legal limits to meet delivery deadlines put everyone on Lampasas County’s roads at risk.

The Trucking Company’s Playbook: What They Don’t Want You to Know

When an 18-wheeler accident occurs in Lampasas County, the trucking company’s rapid-response team springs into action. Their goals:

1. Protect their interests (not yours)
2. Minimize their liability
3. Pay you as little as possible

Here’s what they’re doing while you’re in the hospital:

• Sending investigators to the scene to document evidence that helps their case
• Downloading black box data before it can be overwritten
• Interviewing witnesses to get statements that support their version of events
• Preparing their legal defense with teams of lawyers
• Making early settlement offers designed to pay you far less than your case is worth

At Attorney911, we level the playing field. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows every tactic these companies use. We move just as fast to protect your interests.

Evidence That Disappears Fast: What You Need to Preserve

In 18-wheeler accident cases, evidence disappears faster than you might think. Here’s what’s at risk and how quickly it can be lost:

This is why you need to call us immediately. We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve this critical evidence before it’s lost forever.

Who’s Really Responsible? All the Parties That Can Be Held Liable

In car accidents, usually only one driver is at fault. In 18-wheeler accidents, multiple parties may share responsibility. We investigate every potential defendant to maximize your recovery:

1. The Truck Driver – For negligent actions like speeding, distraction, or impairment
2. The Trucking Company – For negligent hiring, training, supervision, or maintenance
3. The Cargo Owner/Shipper – For improper loading instructions or hazmat violations
4. The Loading Company – For improper cargo securement or weight distribution
5. The Truck Manufacturer – For design or manufacturing defects
6. The Parts Manufacturer – For defective components like brakes or tires
7. The Maintenance Company – For negligent repairs or inspections
8. The Freight Broker – For negligent carrier selection
9. The Truck Owner – For negligent entrustment (if different from carrier)
10. Government Entities – For dangerous road design or maintenance

Our investigation process leaves no stone unturned. We subpoena records, interview witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts to build the strongest possible case.

The Federal Regulations That Prove Negligence

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates every aspect of commercial trucking. When trucking companies violate these regulations, they create dangerous conditions that often lead to accidents. Here are the key regulations we investigate in every Lampasas County trucking case:

Hours of Service Regulations (49 CFR Part 395)

These rules limit how long drivers can operate to prevent fatigue:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Drivers cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour On-Duty Window: Cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• 30-Minute Break: Required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: Cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
• 34-Hour Restart: Can reset weekly clock with 34 consecutive hours off duty

Violations of these rules are among the most common causes of trucking accidents. ELD data provides objective proof of compliance (or violations).

Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR Part 391)

Trucking companies must maintain a Driver Qualification (DQ) File for every driver containing:

• Employment application and background check
• Motor vehicle record from state licensing authority
• Road test certificate or equivalent
• Medical examiner’s certificate (valid for up to 2 years)
• Annual driving record review
• Previous employer inquiries (3-year driving history)
• Drug and alcohol test records

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance (49 CFR Part 396)

Drivers must inspect their vehicles before every trip and document any defects. Companies must maintain records showing:

• Systematic inspection and maintenance procedures
• Annual inspection documentation
• Driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs)
• Repair and maintenance records

Brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical failures often result from maintenance violations.

Cargo Securement Standards (49 CFR Part 393.100-136)

Cargo must be secured to prevent shifting or falling from the vehicle. Requirements include:

• Working load limits for tiedowns
• Minimum number of tiedowns based on cargo length and weight
• Specific requirements for different cargo types (logs, metal coils, machinery, etc.)

Cargo securement violations cause rollovers and spill accidents.

Driving Rules (49 CFR Part 392)

These regulations govern safe operation:

• Speeding: No driving at speeds greater than reasonable for conditions
• Following Too Closely: Must maintain safe following distance
• Distracted Driving: Prohibits hand-held mobile phone use and texting
• Impaired Driving: Prohibits alcohol use within 4 hours of driving
• Fatigued Driving: Prohibits driving while ability is impaired by fatigue

Violations of these rules directly prove negligence.

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Lampasas County Trucking Cases

The injuries we see in 18-wheeler accidents are often life-altering:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBIs occur when the brain impacts the inside of the skull due to sudden acceleration or deceleration. Symptoms may include:

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

Severe TBIs can result in permanent cognitive impairment, requiring lifelong care. The lifetime costs of a severe TBI can exceed $3 million.

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in:

• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
• Incomplete Injuries: Some nerve function remains
• Complete Injuries: Total loss of sensation and movement below the injury

The lifetime costs of spinal cord injuries range from $1.1 million for low paraplegia to $5 million for high quadriplegia.

Amputations

Amputations occur when limbs are severed at the scene or must be surgically removed due to severe damage. These injuries require:

• Initial surgery and hospitalization
• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000 each)
• Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Psychological counseling
• Home modifications

Amputees often face permanent disability and significant lifestyle changes.

Severe Burns

Burns occur from fuel tank ruptures, hazmat spills, or electrical fires. They are classified by severity:

• First Degree: Epidermis only (minor, heals without scarring)
• Second Degree: Epidermis and dermis (may scar, may need grafting)
• Third Degree: Full thickness (requires skin grafts, permanent scarring)
• Fourth Degree: Through skin to muscle/bone (may require amputation)

Burn treatment often requires multiple reconstructive surgeries and can result in permanent disfigurement.

Internal Organ Damage

The forces involved in trucking accidents can cause:

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

These injuries may not show immediate symptoms but can be life-threatening.

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can pursue wrongful death claims to recover:

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

The Compensation You Deserve: Damages in Trucking Cases

Unlike car accidents where insurance may be limited to $30,000-$100,000, trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits—typically $750,000 to $5 million or more. This means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

• Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to injury and recovery
• Lost Earning Capacity: Reduction in future earning ability
• Property Damage: Vehicle repair or replacement
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications
• Life Care Costs: Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain from injuries
• Mental Anguish: Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression
• Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in activities
• Disfigurement: Scarring, visible injuries
• Loss of Consortium: Impact on marriage/family relationships
• Physical Impairment: Reduced physical capabilities

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence)

Texas law allows punitive damages when the trucking company acted with:

• Gross negligence
• Willful misconduct
• Conscious indifference to safety
• Fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence)

Punitive damages are capped in Texas at the greater of:

1. Two times economic damages plus non-economic damages (up to $750,000), or
2. $200,000

The Nuclear Verdict Trend: What Juries Are Awarding in Trucking Cases

Recent years have seen a dramatic increase in large verdicts against trucking companies. Here are some notable examples:

• $462 Million (2024, Missouri): Underride accident where two men were decapitated
• $160 Million (2024, Alabama): Rollover accident that left a driver quadriplegic
• $141.5 Million (2023, Florida): Case against a defunct carrier
• $90 Million (Texas): Burn injuries in a trucking accident
• $37.5 Million (2024, Texas): Trucking verdict in a catastrophic injury case
• $35.5 Million (Texas): Family injured in a truck accident
• $35 Million (2025, Fort Worth): Largest verdict in Tarrant County history

These verdicts demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable. Insurance companies know juries are willing to award massive damages—which strengthens our position in settlement negotiations.

Your Legal Rights in Lampasas County

Texas law provides important protections for trucking accident victims:

Statute of Limitations

You have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Lampasas County. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly, and the sooner we begin our investigation, the stronger your case will be.

Comparative Negligence

Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means:

• If you were 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages
• Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you were more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover anything

For example, if you were found 20% at fault and your damages totaled $1 million, you would recover $800,000.

Wrongful Death Claims

If a loved one was killed in a trucking accident, certain family members can pursue wrongful death claims within 2 years of the death. Eligible claimants typically include:

• Surviving spouse
• Children (minor and adult)
• Parents (if no spouse or children exist)

The Attorney911 Difference: Why We’re the Right Choice for Your Lampasas County Trucking Case

When you’re up against a trucking company with teams of lawyers and millions in insurance, you need more than just any attorney—you need a legal team with specific experience fighting these corporate giants.

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
• Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Experience in BP explosion litigation against multinational corporations
• A track record of holding major trucking companies accountable

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers operate. He spent years on the other side, learning their strategies for minimizing claims. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

Aggressive Evidence Preservation

We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained to preserve:

• ECM/Black box data
• ELD records
• Dashcam footage
• Maintenance records
• Driver qualification files
• Drug and alcohol test results
• And more

This immediate action prevents the trucking company from destroying critical evidence.

Comprehensive Investigation

We leave no stone unturned in building your case:

1. Accident Scene Investigation: We deploy experts to the scene if needed
2. Evidence Gathering: We subpoena all relevant records
3. Expert Analysis: We work with accident reconstruction specialists, medical experts, and vocational experts
4. Liability Determination: We identify all potentially liable parties
5. Damage Calculation: We work with economists and life care planners to calculate your full damages

Willingness to Go to Trial

While most cases settle, 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.

Compassionate Representation

We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a catastrophic injury takes on your family. Our team provides compassionate support throughout the legal process while aggressively pursuing the compensation you deserve.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Lampasas County

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident, follow these steps:

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel okay, get checked out immediately
3. Document the Scene – Take photos and video of:
   • All vehicle damage
   • The accident scene and road conditions
   • Skid marks and debris patterns
   • Your injuries
   • The truck’s DOT number and company information
4. Collect Information – Get:
   • The truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
   • The trucking company’s name and contact information
   • Witness names and phone numbers
   • The responding officer’s name and badge number
5. Do NOT Give Statements – Do not give recorded statements to any insurance company
6. Call Attorney911 – Contact us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911

The Legal Process: What to Expect

When you hire Attorney911 for your Lampasas County trucking accident case, here’s what you can expect:

1. Free Consultation – We evaluate your case at no cost to you
2. Case Acceptance – We take cases on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win
3. Immediate Investigation – We send preservation letters and begin gathering evidence
4. Medical Care Facilitation – We help you get the treatment you need
5. Demand Letter – We send a comprehensive demand to the insurance company
6. Negotiation – We negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement
7. Litigation (if needed) – We file a lawsuit and prepare your case for trial
8. Resolution – We achieve the best possible outcome through settlement or verdict

Throughout this process, we keep you informed and involved. You’ll have direct access to our attorneys, and we’ll answer all your questions promptly.

Common Questions About 18-Wheeler Accidents in Lampasas County

How much is my 18-wheeler accident case worth?

Case values depend on many factors:

• Severity of your injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
• Insurance coverage available

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits, allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents. We’ve seen verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions.

How long will my case take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

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

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

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation creates leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready if trial becomes necessary.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows comparative negligence rules. As long as you were 50% or less at fault, you can still recover damages. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Even if the driver was an independent contractor, both the driver and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships to ensure you can recover from all responsible parties.

How do I prove the driver was fatigued?

We use multiple sources of evidence to prove fatigue:

• ELD data showing hours of service violations
• Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
• Witness statements about driver behavior
• Video evidence from the scene
• Expert testimony on fatigue’s effects

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Many trucking companies carry excess insurance policies that remain in effect even if the company goes bankrupt. We explore all potential sources of recovery.

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

Yes. Lampasas County allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover damages for lost income, loss of companionship, mental anguish, and more.

What if I don’t have health insurance?

We can help you get treatment through:

• Medical liens (doctors get paid from your settlement)
• Letters of protection (LOP) from attorney-approved providers
• Other arrangements that allow you to get care now and pay later

How much does it cost to hire an attorney?

We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict, not your pocket.

The Clock Is Ticking: Why You Need to Act Now

Every hour you wait, evidence in your Lampasas County trucking accident case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests.

Don’t let them win by default. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence and begin building your case.

Our Promise to You

When you hire Attorney911 for your Lampasas County 18-wheeler accident case, we promise:

1. Aggressive Representation – We’ll fight for every dollar you deserve
2. Compassionate Support – We’ll treat you like family, not a case number
3. Direct Access – You’ll have our cell phone numbers for 24/7 communication
4. No Upfront Costs – You pay nothing unless we win
5. Maximum Recovery – We won’t settle for less than your case is worth

Your Fight Starts Here

If you’ve been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident in Lampasas County, you don’t have to fight the trucking companies alone. We have the experience, resources, and determination to take on these corporate giants and win.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free consultation. The sooner you call, the stronger your case will be.

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.

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

“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

Don’t wait. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. We answer 24/7.