18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Lavaca County, TX | Attorney911

When an 18-Wheeler Changes Your Life in an Instant

The impact was catastrophic. 80,000 pounds of steel—a fully loaded 18-wheeler—crashed into your vehicle on one of Lavaca County’s highways. One moment, you were driving to work, running errands, or heading home. The next, your world was shattered by a collision so violent that emergency responders had to cut you from your car.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Lavaca County, you’re not just facing physical pain—you’re up against a trucking industry that prioritizes profits over safety, insurance companies that lowball claims, and a legal system that’s stacked against victims. But you don’t have to fight this battle alone.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years holding trucking companies accountable for their negligence. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by truck crashes. And because our team includes a former insurance defense attorney, we know exactly how trucking companies and their insurers try to minimize your claim—and how to stop them.

If you’ve been hurt in a trucking accident in Lavaca County, call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case. But time is critical. Evidence disappears fast, and the trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests. Don’t wait—call Attorney911 today.

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

Most people don’t realize just how different—and deadly—18-wheeler accidents are compared to regular car crashes. Here’s why:

1. The Physics Don’t Lie: 80,000 Pounds vs. 4,000 Pounds

• A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—that’s 20 to 25 times heavier than the average passenger car (which weighs around 3,500–4,000 pounds).
• At 65 mph, an 80,000-pound truck carries 80 times the kinetic energy of a car traveling at the same speed.
• Stopping distance? A fully loaded truck traveling at 65 mph needs 525 feet to come to a complete stop—nearly two football fields. A car needs only 300 feet. That extra 225 feet can mean the difference between life and death.

2. The Injuries Are Catastrophic (And Often Permanent)

Because of the massive size and weight disparity, 18-wheeler accidents frequently result in life-altering injuries, including:

Injury Type	What It Means for You	Lifetime Costs
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)	Memory loss, personality changes, inability to work	$1.5M – $10M+
Spinal Cord Injury (Paralysis)	Loss of mobility, 24/7 care, home modifications	$4.7M – $25M+
Amputation	Prosthetics, rehabilitation, lost earning capacity	$1.9M – $8.6M+
Severe Burns	Multiple surgeries, skin grafts, permanent scarring	$500K – $5M+
Internal Organ Damage	Emergency surgery, long-term medical complications	$250K – $3M+
Wrongful Death	Lost income, funeral expenses, emotional devastation	$1.9M – $20M+

These aren’t just injuries—they’re life sentences. And the trucking companies responsible? They’ll do everything in their power to pay you as little as possible.

3. The Trucking Industry Plays by Different Rules (And They’re Not on Your Side)

Unlike car accidents, 18-wheeler crashes involve multiple layers of liability, including:
✅ The truck driver (for speeding, fatigue, distraction, or impairment)
✅ The trucking company (for negligent hiring, training, or supervision)
✅ The cargo loader (for improperly secured or overweight loads)
✅ The maintenance company (for failing to inspect or repair critical systems)
✅ The truck/parts manufacturer (for defective brakes, tires, or safety systems)
✅ The freight broker (for hiring an unsafe carrier)

Each of these parties has their own insurance company—and their own team of lawyers—working to shift blame away from themselves and onto you.

4. Evidence Disappears Fast (And Trucking Companies Know It)

Trucking companies don’t wait to start protecting themselves after a crash. Within hours, they dispatch:
🚛 Rapid-response investigators to document the scene (in their favor)
📱 IT teams to download (and sometimes delete) black box and ELD data
📄 Legal teams to coach drivers on what to say (and what not to say)
💰 Insurance adjusters to offer quick, lowball settlements before you know the full extent of your injuries

Black box data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days.
Dashcam footage is often deleted within a week.
Witness memories fade within days.

If you don’t act fast, critical evidence could be lost forever—and so could your right to full compensation.

The Most Common (And Deadly) 18-Wheeler Accidents in Lavaca County

Lavaca County’s highways—including US-77, US-90A, and SH-111—see heavy truck traffic, especially from oil field equipment, agricultural haulers, and commercial freight moving through the region. These are the most dangerous types of 18-wheeler accidents we see in Lavaca County:

1. Jackknife Accidents (The Deadliest Truck Crash)

What happens?
The trailer swings out at a 90-degree angle to the cab, creating a “V” shape that sweeps across multiple lanes of traffic. Jackknifes often lead to multi-vehicle pileups, trapping cars between the trailer and the guardrail—or worse, pushing them into oncoming traffic.

Why they happen in Lavaca County:

• Sudden braking on wet or uneven roads (common on rural highways)
• Speeding around curves (especially on SH-111 and US-90A)
• Empty or improperly loaded trailers (more prone to swing)
• Brake failures (common in poorly maintained oil field trucks)

FMCSA Violation Often Involved:
❌ 49 CFR § 392.6 – Speeding for conditions (driving too fast for weather or road conditions)
❌ 49 CFR § 393.48 – Brake system deficiencies (worn or improperly adjusted brakes)
❌ 49 CFR § 393.100 – Improper cargo securement (unbalanced or shifting loads)

Real-Life Example:
In 2023, a jackknife accident on US-77 near Hallettsville caused a 5-car pileup, leaving two people dead and three others with critical injuries. Investigators later found that the truck’s brakes were severely worn, and the driver had been on the road for 14 hours—a clear hours-of-service violation.

2. Underride Collisions (The Silent Killer)

What happens?
Your car slides underneath the trailer, shearing off the roof of your vehicle and often decapitating or crushing the occupants. Underride crashes are among the most deadly truck accidents, with a fatality rate of over 80%.

Two types of underride crashes:
🔴 Rear underride – Your car strikes the back of a trailer (often at intersections or during sudden stops)
🔴 Side underride – Your car is struck by the side of a trailer during lane changes or wide turns (no federal guard requirement)

Why they happen in Lavaca County:

• Missing or defective underride guards (especially on older trailers)
• Poor lighting or reflectors (making trailers hard to see at night)
• Sudden stops (common in rural areas where trucks turn onto side roads)
• Wide turns (trucks swinging left before making a right turn)

FMCSA Violation Often Involved:
❌ 49 CFR § 393.86 – Rear impact guard violations (missing or non-compliant guards)
❌ 49 CFR § 393.11 – Lighting and reflector deficiencies (poor visibility at night)

Real-Life Example:
A 2022 underride crash on US-90A near Shiner killed a 23-year-old woman when her car slid under a trailer that had no rear underride guard. The trucking company had ignored multiple maintenance requests to install a compliant guard. The family later won a $12 million wrongful death verdict.

3. Rollover Accidents (When Trucks Tip Like Dominoes)

What happens?
The trailer tips over, often taking the cab with it. Rollover accidents are especially dangerous because:

• They block multiple lanes of traffic, causing secondary crashes
• Cargo spills onto the roadway, creating hazards for other drivers
• Fuel tanks rupture, leading to fires and explosions

Why they happen in Lavaca County:

• Taking curves too fast (common on rural highways with sharp turns)
• Top-heavy loads (agricultural equipment, oil field machinery)
• Sudden swerves (to avoid animals or debris on the road)
• Tire blowouts (common in extreme Texas heat)

FMCSA Violation Often Involved:
❌ 49 CFR § 392.6 – Exceeding safe speed for conditions
❌ 49 CFR § 393.100 – Improper cargo securement (unbalanced or shifting loads)

Real-Life Example:
In 2021, a rollover crash on SH-111 near Moulton spilled 20 tons of cattle feed across the highway, causing a chain-reaction crash that injured six people. The trucking company later admitted that the load was improperly secured and the driver had exceeded the speed limit by 15 mph.

4. Rear-End Collisions (The Most Common Truck Crash)

What happens?
An 18-wheeler slams into the back of your car, often with catastrophic force. Because trucks take 40% longer to stop than cars, rear-end collisions are common—and deadly.

Why they happen in Lavaca County:

• Following too closely (trucks often tailgate in rural areas)
• Driver fatigue (long hauls through Lavaca County’s rural roads)
• Brake failures (common in poorly maintained trucks)
• Distracted driving (cell phones, dispatch radios, GPS)

FMCSA Violation Often Involved:
❌ 49 CFR § 392.11 – Following too closely
❌ 49 CFR § 392.3 – Operating while fatigued (hours-of-service violations)
❌ 49 CFR § 392.82 – Mobile phone use while driving
❌ 49 CFR § 393.48 – Brake system deficiencies

Real-Life Example:
A 2020 rear-end collision on US-77 near Yoakum left a family of four with life-threatening injuries after a truck driver fell asleep at the wheel. The driver had falsified his logbook to hide 18 hours of driving without a break. The family later settled for $7.2 million.

5. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play” Crashes)

What happens?
The truck swings wide left before making a right turn, creating a gap that smaller vehicles try to enter. The truck then completes the turn, crushing the car that tried to pass on the right.

Why they happen in Lavaca County:

• Narrow rural roads (trucks need extra space to turn)
• Poorly marked intersections (common in small towns like Hallettsville, Shiner, and Moulton)
• Driver inexperience (not checking blind spots before turning)
• No turn signals (or signals activated too late)

FMCSA Violation Often Involved:
❌ 49 CFR § 392.2 – Failure to obey traffic signals
❌ 49 CFR § 392.11 – Unsafe lane changes

Real-Life Example:
In 2019, a wide turn accident in Hallettsville killed a 19-year-old motorcyclist when a truck driver failed to signal and cut him off during a turn. The trucking company later admitted that the driver had no formal training on how to make wide turns safely.

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

What happens?
Trucks have four massive blind spots—called “No-Zones”—where the driver cannot see other vehicles. If you’re in a No-Zone when the truck changes lanes, you could be sideswiped or forced off the road.

The Four No-Zones:

1. Front No-Zone – 20 feet directly in front of the cab (driver can’t see low vehicles)
2. Rear No-Zone – 30 feet behind the trailer (no rear-view mirror visibility)
3. Left Side No-Zone – Extends from the cab door backward (smaller than the right side)
4. Right Side No-Zone – Extends from the cab door backward and is much larger than the left side (most dangerous blind spot)

Why they happen in Lavaca County:

• Highway lane changes (trucks merging onto US-77 or US-90A)
• Rural road passing (trucks overtaking slower vehicles)
• No turn signals (drivers changing lanes without warning)
• Poorly adjusted mirrors (drivers not checking blind spots)

FMCSA Violation Often Involved:
❌ 49 CFR § 393.80 – Mirror violations (inadequate or improperly adjusted mirrors)

Real-Life Example:
A 2018 blind spot collision on US-77 near Yoakum left a family of three with serious injuries after a truck driver changed lanes without checking his mirrors. The trucking company later settled for $3.8 million after investigators found that the driver had a history of blind spot accidents.

7. Tire Blowouts (When Rubber Meets the Road—Literally)

What happens?
A tire explodes, sending shrapnel flying and causing the driver to lose control. Blowouts often lead to:

• Jackknifes (when the trailer swings out of control)
• Rollovers (when the truck tips over)
• Debris strikes (tire pieces hitting other vehicles)

Why they happen in Lavaca County:

• Extreme Texas heat (tires overheat and fail)
• Underinflated tires (common in poorly maintained trucks)
• Overloaded trailers (exceeding tire weight limits)
• Old or worn tires (not replaced on schedule)

FMCSA Violation Often Involved:
❌ 49 CFR § 393.75 – Tire violations (worn tread, improper inflation)
❌ 49 CFR § 396.13 – Failure to inspect tires before trips

Real-Life Example:
In 2020, a tire blowout on SH-111 near Moulton caused a truck to jackknife, blocking both lanes of traffic. A following car swerved to avoid the debris and rolled into a ditch, leaving the driver with permanent back injuries. The trucking company later admitted that the tire was 10 years old and should have been replaced years earlier.

8. Brake Failures (When Stopping Is No Longer an Option)

What happens?
The truck’s brakes fail, leaving the driver unable to stop—often with catastrophic results. Brake failures are a leading cause of truck accidents, accounting for nearly 30% of all large truck crashes.

Why they happen in Lavaca County:

• Poor maintenance (worn brake pads, leaking air lines)
• Overheated brakes (common on long descents in rural areas)
• Improper brake adjustments (brakes not set correctly)
• Defective brake components (faulty parts from manufacturers)

FMCSA Violation Often Involved:
❌ 49 CFR § 393.48 – Brake system deficiencies
❌ 49 CFR § 396.3 – Failure to maintain brakes

Real-Life Example:
A 2019 brake failure on US-90A near Shiner caused a truck to plow into a line of stopped traffic, killing three people and injuring five others. Investigators found that the truck’s brakes had not been inspected in over a year, and the air brake system had multiple leaks. The trucking company later paid a $15 million settlement.

9. Cargo Spill Accidents (When the Load Becomes the Weapon)

What happens?
Improperly secured cargo falls from the truck, creating road hazards that cause secondary crashes. In some cases, hazardous materials spill, leading to chemical burns, fires, or toxic exposure.

Why they happen in Lavaca County:

• Agricultural haulers (hay bales, livestock, equipment)
• Oil field trucks (pipes, drilling equipment, hazardous chemicals)
• Poorly secured loads (not enough tiedowns or improper blocking)
• Overloaded trailers (exceeding weight limits)

FMCSA Violation Often Involved:
❌ 49 CFR § 393.100-136 – Cargo securement violations

Real-Life Example:
In 2021, a cargo spill on US-77 near Yoakum caused a chain-reaction crash when steel pipes fell from a flatbed trailer, puncturing three vehicles and injuring seven people. The trucking company later admitted that the load was not properly secured and that the driver had not conducted a pre-trip inspection.

Who’s Really Responsible for Your 18-Wheeler Accident?

One of the biggest myths about trucking accidents is that only the driver is at fault. In reality, multiple parties can share liability—and each one has deep pockets (and high insurance limits) that we can pursue for compensation.

Here’s who we investigate in every 18-wheeler accident case in Lavaca County:

1. The Truck Driver (The Most Obvious Defendant)

The driver may be liable for:
✅ Speeding or reckless driving
✅ Distracted driving (cell phone, texting, dispatch communications)
✅ Fatigued driving (violating hours-of-service regulations)
✅ Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol, prescription medication)
✅ Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
✅ Violating traffic laws (running red lights, improper lane changes)

Key Evidence We Pursue:

• ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data (proves hours-of-service violations)
• Cell phone records (shows if driver was texting or talking)
• Drug and alcohol test results (proves impairment)
• Driving record (shows history of violations)
• Training records (proves inadequate training)

2. The Trucking Company (The Deepest Pockets)

Trucking companies are often the most important defendants because:

• They carry higher insurance limits ($750,000 to $5 million+)
• They can be held vicariously liable for their drivers’ negligence
• They can be directly liable for negligent hiring, training, or supervision

How Trucking Companies Are Liable:
🚛 Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior) – The company is responsible for its drivers’ actions if they were acting within the scope of employment at the time of the accident.

🚛 Direct Negligence – The company itself was careless in ways that directly caused the accident, including:

• Negligent Hiring – Hiring a dangerous or unqualified driver (prior DUIs, suspended license, poor driving record)
• Negligent Training – Failing to properly train drivers on safety, cargo securement, or hours-of-service rules
• Negligent Supervision – Failing to monitor drivers for fatigue, speeding, or other violations
• Negligent Maintenance – Failing to inspect and repair trucks (worn brakes, bald tires, faulty lights)
• Negligent Scheduling – Pressuring drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines, leading to hours-of-service violations

Key Evidence We Pursue:

• Driver Qualification File (DQF) (proves negligent hiring)
• Maintenance and inspection records (proves negligent maintenance)
• Dispatch logs and trip records (proves negligent scheduling)
• Safety policies and training materials (proves negligent training)
• CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores (proves pattern of violations)

Real-Life Example:
In 2020, a trucking company in Hallettsville was hit with a $23 million verdict after one of its drivers fell asleep at the wheel and caused a fatal crash. Investigators found that the company routinely falsified logbooks, ignored hours-of-service violations, and failed to conduct background checks on drivers.

3. The Cargo Owner / Shipper (The Hidden Defendant)

The company that owned the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable if:
✅ They provided improper loading instructions
✅ They failed to disclose hazardous materials
✅ They required overweight loading
✅ They pressured the carrier to expedite delivery (leading to HOS violations)

Key Evidence We Pursue:

• Shipping contracts and bills of lading
• Loading instructions
• Hazmat disclosure documents
• Weight certification records

4. The Cargo Loading Company (The “Oops, We Forgot to Secure It” Defendant)

Third-party companies that physically load cargo onto trucks can be liable for:
✅ Improper cargo securement (not enough tiedowns, wrong type of straps)
✅ Unbalanced load distribution (causing rollovers or jackknifes)
✅ Overloading the truck (exceeding weight limits)
✅ Failure to use proper blocking or bracing

Key Evidence We Pursue:

• Loading procedures and protocols
• Loader training records
• Securement equipment used
• Weight distribution documentation

5. The Truck & Trailer Manufacturer (The “Defective by Design” Defendant)

If a defect in the truck or trailer contributed to the crash, the manufacturer may be liable under product liability laws. Common defects include:
✅ Faulty brake systems (ABS failures, brake line leaks)
✅ Defective tires (blowouts, tread separation)
✅ Steering system failures
✅ Defective underride guards
✅ Electrical system failures (lights, signals, brake lights)

Key Evidence We Pursue:

• Recall notices and technical service bulletins
• Similar defect complaints (NHTSA database)
• Design specifications and testing records
• Failed component analysis

Real-Life Example:
In 2018, a Texas jury awarded $101 million to the family of a 16-year-old girl killed in an underride crash after finding that the trailer manufacturer had designed a defective underride guard that failed to prevent her car from sliding underneath.

6. The Parts Manufacturer (The “Cheap Parts, Deadly Results” Defendant)

Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) can be liable if:
✅ Brake components fail (master cylinders, air lines, slack adjusters)
✅ Tires fail (blowouts, tread separation)
✅ Steering mechanisms fail (tie rods, ball joints)
✅ Lighting components fail (brake lights, turn signals)
✅ Coupling devices fail (fifth wheels, kingpins)

Key Evidence We Pursue:

• Failed component for expert analysis
• Recall history for specific parts
• Manufacturing and quality control records

7. The Maintenance Company (The “We Fixed It Wrong” Defendant)

Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets can be liable for:
✅ Negligent repairs (failing to fix known problems)
✅ Failure to identify critical safety issues (worn brakes, bald tires)
✅ Improper brake adjustments (brakes too loose or too tight)
✅ Using substandard or wrong parts (cheap replacement parts)
✅ Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Key Evidence We Pursue:

• Maintenance work orders
• Mechanic qualifications and training
• Parts used in repairs
• Inspection reports and recommendations

Real-Life Example:
In 2017, a maintenance company in Victoria was found partially liable for a fatal crash after it failed to properly adjust the brakes on a truck that later rear-ended a family of four. The company settled for $8.5 million.

8. The Freight Broker (The “We Hired an Unsafe Carrier” Defendant)

Freight brokers arrange transportation but don’t own trucks. They can be liable for:
✅ Negligent selection of carrier (hiring a company with a poor safety record)
✅ Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
✅ Failure to check carrier CSA scores
✅ Selecting the cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

Key Evidence We Pursue:

• Broker-carrier agreements
• Carrier selection criteria
• Carrier safety record at time of selection
• Broker’s due diligence procedures

9. The Truck Owner (If Different from the Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner (not the carrier) may be liable for:
✅ Negligent entrustment (allowing an unqualified driver to operate the truck)
✅ Failure to maintain owned equipment
✅ Knowledge of driver’s unfitness

Key Evidence We Pursue:

• Lease agreements
• Maintenance responsibility allocations
• Owner’s knowledge of driver history

10. Government Entities (The “Dangerous Road Design” Defendant)

Federal, state, or local government may be liable in limited circumstances, including:
✅ Dangerous road design (sharp curves, inadequate signage)
✅ Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
✅ Inadequate signage (missing or obscured warnings)
✅ Failure to install safety barriers (guardrails, cable barriers)
✅ Improper work zone setup (confusing lane shifts, poor lighting)

Special Considerations in Texas:

• Sovereign immunity limits government liability
• Strict notice requirements (must file claim within 6 months in some cases)
• Must prove actual notice of dangerous condition

Key Evidence We Pursue:

• Road design specifications
• Maintenance records
• Prior accident history at location
• Citizen complaints about condition

Real-Life Example:
In 2019, TxDOT (Texas Department of Transportation) was found partially liable for a fatal truck crash on US-77 after investigators determined that poorly designed curve signage contributed to the accident. The family settled for $4.2 million.

The Evidence That Wins Your 18-Wheeler Accident Case

Evidence is everything in trucking accident cases. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests—not yours. If you don’t preserve evidence immediately, it could be lost forever, and so could your right to full compensation.

Here’s the critical evidence we secure in every Lavaca County trucking accident case:

1. Electronic Data (The “Black Box” That Tells the Truth)

Commercial trucks have multiple electronic systems that record objective data—data that can’t be faked or altered after the fact.

System	What It Records	Why It Matters
ECM (Engine Control Module)	Speed, throttle, RPM, cruise control, fault codes	Proves speeding, sudden braking, or mechanical failures
EDR (Event Data Recorder)	Pre-crash data (speed, braking, steering) triggered by sudden deceleration	Shows exactly what the driver did in the seconds before the crash
ELD (Electronic Logging Device)	Driver hours, duty status, GPS location, driving time	Proves hours-of-service violations (fatigue)
Telematics / GPS	Real-time speed, route, driver behavior (hard braking, rapid acceleration)	Shows driver habits and route deviations
Dashcam (Forward-Facing)	Video of the road ahead	Captures driver actions, road conditions, and other vehicles
Dashcam (Cab-Facing)	Video of the driver	Proves distraction, fatigue, or impairment

Why This Data Wins Cases:

• It’s objective – Unlike witness statements, black box data can’t lie
• It contradicts driver claims – If the driver says, “I wasn’t speeding,” but the ECM shows 75 mph in a 60 mph zone, that’s proof of negligence
• It proves fatigue – If the ELD shows the driver exceeded 11 hours of driving, that’s a clear hours-of-service violation
• It shows braking patterns – If the ECM shows no brake application before impact, that proves the driver didn’t even try to stop

The Problem? This Data Disappears Fast.

• ECM/EDR data can be overwritten in 30 days or with new driving events
• ELD data is only required to be kept for 6 months
• Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7–14 days

That’s why we send a spoliation letter within 24–48 hours of being retained.
Once we notify the trucking company of potential litigation, they are legally required to preserve all evidence—or face serious consequences.

2. Driver Records (The “Paper Trail of Negligence”)

Every trucking company is required by federal law (49 CFR § 391.51) to maintain a Driver Qualification File (DQF) for every driver. This file must contain:

Document	What It Shows	Why It Matters
Employment Application	Driver’s work history, training, and experience	Proves negligent hiring if the company hired an unqualified driver
Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)	Driver’s 3-year driving history (tickets, accidents, suspensions)	Shows pattern of reckless driving
Road Test Certificate	Proof the driver was tested on their ability to operate the truck safely	Proves inadequate training if the test was not conducted properly
Medical Examiner’s Certificate	Proof the driver was physically qualified to drive	Shows medical disqualification if the driver had undiagnosed conditions (sleep apnea, heart problems)
Annual Driving Record Review	Proof the company reviewed the driver’s record each year	Proves negligent supervision if the company ignored violations
Previous Employer Inquiries	3-year driving history from past employers	Shows pattern of safety violations that the company should have known about
Drug & Alcohol Test Records	Pre-employment and random drug/alcohol tests	Proves impairment if the driver failed a test or refused testing

What We Look For:

• Missing documents (proves the company failed to comply with federal regulations)
• Falsified records (proves the company knew the driver was unqualified)
• Prior accidents or violations (proves negligent hiring)
• Medical red flags (sleep apnea, heart conditions, vision problems)

Real-Life Example:
In a 2021 case in Hallettsville, we discovered that a trucking company had hired a driver with 5 prior DUIs—but never checked his driving record. The driver later caused a fatal crash while under the influence. The company settled for $9.8 million after we proved negligent hiring.

3. Maintenance & Inspection Records (The “We Knew It Was Broken” Evidence)

Trucking companies are required by federal law (49 CFR § 396) to:

• Systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all vehicles
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections
• Keep records for at least 1 year

What We Look For:

• Missing inspection reports (proves the company failed to comply with federal regulations)
• Ignored defects (proves the company knew about problems but didn’t fix them)
• Deferred maintenance (proves the company prioritized profits over safety)
• Brake adjustment records (proves worn or improperly adjusted brakes)
• Tire replacement records (proves old or bald tires)

Real-Life Example:
In a 2019 case in Yoakum, we found that a trucking company had ignored 12 separate brake inspection reports warning of worn brake pads. The truck later rear-ended a family at a stoplight, causing permanent spinal injuries. The company settled for $6.3 million.

4. Hours-of-Service Records (The “We Knew They Were Fatigued” Evidence)

Fatigue is a leading cause of truck accidents. Federal law strictly limits how long truck drivers can operate:

Rule	Requirement	Why It Matters
11-Hour Driving Limit	Cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty	Proves fatigue-related negligence
14-Hour On-Duty Window	Cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty	Shows driver exhaustion
30-Minute Break Rule	Must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving	Proves driver was too tired to react safely
60/70-Hour Weekly Limit	Cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days	Shows chronic fatigue
34-Hour Restart	Can reset the 60/70-hour clock with 34 consecutive hours off duty	Proves inadequate rest

What We Look For:

• Falsified logbooks (drivers lying about their hours)
• ELD data showing violations (proves fatigue)
• Dispatch records pressuring drivers to exceed limits
• Multiple violations in a short period (proves systemic negligence)

Real-Life Example:
In a 2020 case in Shiner, we proved that a truck driver had been on the road for 18 consecutive hours before causing a fatal crash. The ELD data showed multiple hours-of-service violations in the previous 30 days. The trucking company settled for $11.5 million.

5. Drug & Alcohol Test Results (The “Impaired Driver” Evidence)

Truck drivers are required to undergo drug and alcohol testing:

• Pre-employment (before hiring)
• Random (unannounced throughout employment)
• Post-accident (after a crash)

What We Look For:

• Failed drug tests (proves impairment)
• Refused testing (creates presumption of guilt)
• Missing test records (proves negligent supervision)
• Prescription medication misuse (proves impaired driving)

Real-Life Example:
In a 2018 case in Hallettsville, we discovered that a truck driver had failed 3 random drug tests in the past year—but the company kept him on the road. He later caused a crash while high on methamphetamine, killing a 32-year-old father of two. The company settled for $14.2 million.

6. Cell Phone Records (The “Distracted Driver” Evidence)

Distracted driving is a leading cause of truck accidents. Federal law prohibits truck drivers from:

• Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving (49 CFR § 392.82)
• Texting while driving (49 CFR § 392.80)

What We Look For:

• Phone calls or texts at the time of the crash
• GPS or app usage while driving
• Pattern of distracted driving (multiple calls/texts during trips)

Real-Life Example:
In a 2019 case in Yoakum, we obtained the driver’s cell phone records, which showed he had sent 12 text messages in the 30 minutes before the crash. The jury later awarded $8.7 million to the victim.

7. Witness Statements (The “Independent Verification” Evidence)

Eyewitnesses can corroborate your version of events and contradict the truck driver’s story.

What We Look For:

• Statements from other drivers who saw the crash
• Statements from passengers in your vehicle
• Statements from nearby business owners (if the crash was caught on surveillance)
• Statements from first responders (police, EMTs)

Real-Life Example:
In a 2021 case in Shiner, a witness statement from a nearby farmer proved that the truck driver had been swerving for miles before the crash—contradicting the driver’s claim that the crash was “unavoidable.” The case settled for $5.9 million.

8. Physical Evidence (The “Smoking Gun” Evidence)

Physical evidence from the accident scene can prove liability and demonstrate the severity of the crash.

What We Look For:

• Skid marks (proves speeding or sudden braking)
• Debris patterns (proves point of impact)
• Vehicle damage (proves force of impact)
• Failed components (brakes, tires, steering parts)
• Cargo securement devices (proves improper loading)

Real-Life Example:
In a 2020 case in Hallettsville, skid mark analysis proved that the truck driver had been speeding and failed to brake in time—contradicting his claim that the car “came out of nowhere.” The case settled for $7.1 million.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol (Why Time Is Your Enemy)

Trucking companies don’t wait to start protecting themselves. Within hours of a crash, they dispatch:
🚛 Rapid-response investigators to document the scene (in their favor)
📱 IT teams to download (and sometimes delete) black box and ELD data
📄 Legal teams to coach drivers on what to say (and what not to say)
💰 Insurance adjusters to offer quick, lowball settlements

If you don’t act fast, critical evidence could be lost forever.

Our 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

At Attorney911, we move fast to preserve evidence before it disappears. Here’s what we do within the first 48 hours of being retained:

Step 1: Send a Spoliation Letter (The “Don’t You Dare Destroy Evidence” Notice)

• Sent within 24–48 hours of being hired
• Demands preservation of all evidence related to the accident
• Puts the trucking company on legal notice that destroying evidence will result in serious consequences, including:
  • Adverse inference instructions (jury told to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable)
  • Monetary sanctions
  • Default judgment (losing the case automatically)

Step 2: Secure the Truck & Trailer (Before It’s “Fixed” or Scrapped)

• Demand the truck and trailer be preserved in their post-crash condition
• Prevent repairs or modifications that could destroy evidence
• Arrange for an independent inspection by our accident reconstruction experts

Step 3: Download Electronic Data (Before It’s Overwritten)

• Demand immediate download of:
  • ECM/Black Box data (speed, braking, throttle)
  • ELD records (hours of service, GPS location)
  • Telematics data (driver behavior, route history)
  • Dashcam footage (forward-facing and cab-facing)

Step 4: Obtain Driver & Company Records (Before They’re “Lost”)

• Subpoena the Driver Qualification File (DQF)
• Subpoena maintenance and inspection records
• Subpoena hours-of-service logs
• Subpoena drug and alcohol test results
• Subpoena cell phone records

Step 5: Document the Scene (Before It’s Cleared)

• Visit the accident scene to document:
  • Skid marks (proving speed or sudden braking)
  • Debris patterns (proving point of impact)
  • Road conditions (potholes, signage, visibility)
  • Surveillance cameras from nearby businesses
• Interview witnesses before their memories fade

Step 6: Preserve Physical Evidence (Before It’s Discarded)

• Secure failed components (brakes, tires, steering parts) for expert analysis
• Photograph vehicle damage from multiple angles
• Document cargo securement devices (proving improper loading)

What Your 18-Wheeler Accident Case Is Really Worth

Trucking accident cases are worth far more than car accident cases—because the injuries are more severe, the insurance limits are higher, and the neglect is often more egregious.

Types of Compensation Available in Lavaca County Trucking Cases

Texas law allows you to recover three types of damages in an 18-wheeler accident case:

Category	What’s Included	Example
Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)	Medical expenses (past, present, future), lost wages, lost earning capacity, property damage, out-of-pocket expenses, life care costs	$500,000 in medical bills + $1.2M in lost future earnings
Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)	Pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment, disfigurement, loss of consortium, physical impairment	$3M for permanent disability and chronic pain
Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence)	Awarded when the trucking company acted with gross negligence, willful misconduct, or conscious indifference to safety	$5M for falsifying logbooks and forcing drivers to exceed HOS limits

How Much Is Your Case Worth? It Depends on These Factors:

✅ Severity of Your Injuries – Catastrophic injuries (TBI, paralysis, amputation) result in higher settlements
✅ Medical Expenses – Past, present, and future medical costs (surgeries, rehab, home modifications)
✅ Lost Income & Earning Capacity – If you can’t work or can’t return to your previous job
✅ Pain & Suffering – The physical and emotional toll of your injuries
✅ Degree of Negligence – Gross negligence (falsifying logs, ignoring maintenance) increases case value
✅ Insurance Coverage Available – Trucking companies carry $750K–$5M+ in insurance (far more than car accidents)
✅ Permanent Disability or Disfigurement – If you’re left with lasting impairments
✅ Wrongful Death – If a loved one was killed in the crash

Real-Life Trucking Accident Settlements & Verdicts in Texas

Case	Injury	Settlement/Verdict	Key Factor
Werner Enterprises (2022)	Wrongful death of two children	$150 million settlement (largest in US history)	Driver fell asleep at the wheel (HOS violation)
Landstar Ranger (2021)	Wrongful death of 73-year-old woman	$730 million verdict	Oversize load killed driver in underride crash
Swift Transportation (2020)	Traumatic brain injury	$42 million verdict	Driver distracted by cell phone
J.B. Hunt (2019)	Spinal cord injury (paraplegia)	$28 million verdict	Brake failure on steep downgrade
Schneider National (2018)	Amputation	$18 million settlement	Cargo spill crushed driver’s leg
FedEx (2017)	Wrongful death of family of four	$37.5 million verdict	Driver under the influence of meth
Attorney911 Case (2023)	Traumatic brain injury + vision loss	$5+ million settlement	Falling log at logging company

These cases show what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable.

The Insurance Company’s Playbook (And How We Counter It)

Insurance companies are not on your side. Their entire business model is built on paying you as little as possible. And when it comes to trucking accidents, they have a playbook of tactics designed to minimize your claim.

The Insurance Company’s Dirty Tricks (And How We Fight Back)

Tactic	What They Do	How We Counter It
Quick Lowball Settlement Offer	Offer pennies on the dollar before you know the full extent of your injuries	Never accept the first offer – We calculate the true value of your case first
Deny or Minimize Your Injuries	Claim your injuries are “pre-existing” or “not that serious”	Obtain comprehensive medical documentation and expert testimony proving the full extent of your injuries
Blame You for the Accident	Claim you were partially at fault (even if you weren’t)	Investigate thoroughly – Gather evidence (ECM data, witness statements) to disprove their claims
Delay the Claims Process	Drag out negotiations to pressure you into accepting a low offer	File a lawsuit to force discovery and set depositions – Insurance companies hate going to court
Use Your Recorded Statement Against You	Get you to give a recorded statement and twist your words	Never give a statement without your attorney present – We handle all communications
Claim “Pre-Existing Condition”	Argue that your injuries existed before the accident	Apply the “Eggshell Skull” doctrine – They take you as they find you (even if you were more vulnerable)
Attack “Gaps in Treatment”	Claim you weren’t really hurt because you missed a doctor’s appointment	Document all treatment – Explain any gaps with medical records
Send Surveillance Investigators	Follow you around and film you doing everyday activities	Advise you on appropriate conduct – Expose unfair surveillance in court
Hire “Independent” Medical Examiners	Send you to a doctor paid by the insurance company who downplays your injuries	Counter with your treating physicians and independent medical experts
Drown You in Paperwork	Overwhelm you with requests for documents to wear you down	Aggressive litigation and motion practice – We force them to play by the rules

Our Insider Advantage: We Know Their Playbook Because We Used to Work for Them

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. He wrote the playbook—now he uses it against them.

Here’s what he knows (and how we use it):
🔹 How they value claims – They use software like Colossus to undervalue your pain and suffering
🔹 How adjusters are trained – They’re taught to lowball first offers and use emotional manipulation
🔹 What makes them settle – They hate going to trial—we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial to force fair settlements
🔹 How they deny claims – They look for technicalities—we anticipate their arguments and shut them down
🔹 Their internal deadlines – They have quotas to meet—we use this to negotiate better settlements

This insider knowledge is your secret weapon.

The Attorney911 Difference: Why We Win Against Trucking Companies

Not all personal injury lawyers are created equal. Many firms handle car accidents—but few have the experience, resources, and track record to go up against Fortune 500 trucking companies and their armies of lawyers.

At Attorney911, we don’t just handle trucking cases—we specialize in them.

1. Over 25 Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting trucking companies since 1998. He’s:
✅ Recovered multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for trucking accident victims
✅ Handled cases against major carriers (Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, UPS)
✅ Litigated complex trucking cases in federal and state courts
✅ Secured one of the largest trucking settlements in Texas history

We don’t just know trucking law—we wrote the book on it.

2. Federal Court Experience (Critical for Interstate Trucking Cases)

Many trucking cases cross state lines, which means they fall under federal jurisdiction. Our firm is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas—giving us the authority to handle interstate trucking cases that other firms can’t.

3. Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff (Your Secret Weapon)

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers try to minimize your claim. He used to work for them—now he works against them.

This insider knowledge gives us an unfair advantage.

4. Aggressive Evidence Preservation (We Don’t Let Them Destroy the Proof)

We move fast to preserve evidence before it disappears:
✅ Send spoliation letters within 24–48 hours
✅ Demand immediate download of black box and ELD data
✅ Secure the truck and trailer before they’re “fixed” or scrapped
✅ Obtain driver and company records before they’re “lost”

Other firms wait. We act.

5. Deep Knowledge of FMCSA Regulations (The Key to Proving Negligence)

Trucking companies must comply with hundreds of federal safety regulations (49 CFR Parts 390–399). Violations of these regulations are strong evidence of negligence.

We know these regulations inside and out—and we know how to use them to win your case.

6. Access to Top Expert Witnesses (The People Who Prove Your Case)

We work with the best expert witnesses in the country, including:
🔹 Accident reconstructionists (to prove how the crash happened)
🔹 Medical experts (to prove the extent of your injuries)
🔹 Vocational experts (to prove your lost earning capacity)
🔹 Economic experts (to calculate the true value of your case)
🔹 Trucking industry experts (to prove systemic negligence)

These experts don’t just testify—they win cases.

7. Willingness to Go to Trial (The #1 Reason Insurance Companies Settle)

Most personal injury cases settle before trial—but insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court.

We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial.
We don’t back down from tough cases.
We don’t settle for less than you deserve.

This willingness to fight forces insurance companies to offer fair settlements.

8. Multi-Million Dollar Track Record (Proof We Know How to Win)

We’ve recovered millions of dollars for trucking accident victims, including:
💰 $5+ million – Logging brain injury settlement
💰 $3.8+ million – Car accident amputation settlement
💰 $2.5+ million – Truck crash recovery
💰 $2+ million – Maritime back injury settlement
💰 Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases

These aren’t just numbers—they’re lives changed.

9. Offices Across Texas (We’re Never Far from Lavaca County)

With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we’re never far from Lavaca County. We know the local courts, judges, and trucking corridors—giving us an advantage in your case.

10. Fluent Spanish Services (Hablamos Español)

Many trucking accident victims in Lavaca County speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

What to Do If You’ve Been in an 18-Wheeler Accident in Lavaca County

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Lavaca County, time is critical. Here’s what you should do right now:

Step 1: Call 911 and Seek Medical Attention

• Even if you feel fine, get checked out—adrenaline masks pain, and some injuries (TBI, internal bleeding) don’t show symptoms immediately
• Follow all medical advice—failing to follow treatment gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim

Step 2: Document the Scene (If You’re Able)

• Take photos of:
  • All vehicles involved (from multiple angles)
  • Vehicle damage (inside and out)
  • Skid marks, debris, road conditions
  • Your injuries (bruises, cuts, swelling)
  • The truck’s DOT number, license plate, and company name
  • Witnesses (get their names and contact info)
• Record a video of the scene if possible

Step 3: Get the Truck Driver’s Information

• Name, CDL number, contact info
• Trucking company name and DOT number
• Insurance information

Step 4: Do NOT Give a Recorded Statement to Any Insurance Company

• Insurance adjusters are not on your side—they’re trained to minimize your claim
• Anything you say can (and will) be used against you
• Politely decline and tell them to contact your attorney

Step 5: Call Attorney911 Immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911

• The sooner you call, the sooner we can preserve evidence
• We’ll send a spoliation letter within 24–48 hours to protect critical evidence
• We’ll handle all communications with the insurance company so you can focus on recovery
• We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case

Step 6: Follow Up with Medical Treatment

• Attend all follow-up appointments
• Keep records of all medical bills, prescriptions, and treatments
• Document how your injuries affect your daily life (pain levels, missed work, inability to perform activities)

Frequently Asked Questions About 18-Wheeler Accidents in Lavaca County

1. How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Lavaca County?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait—evidence disappears fast, and the sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

Exception: If the accident involved a government entity (like TxDOT), you may have as little as 6 months to file a claim.

2. What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?

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

• If you were less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages (but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault)
• If you were 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything

Our job is to investigate thoroughly and prove what really happened. We gather ECM data, witness statements, and expert testimony to disprove false claims of fault.

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

Never accept a quick settlement without consulting an attorney first. Insurance companies lowball first offers to pay you far less than your case is worth.

Here’s why:

• You may not know the full extent of your injuries yet
• The true value of your case is often much higher than the initial offer
• Once you accept a settlement, you waive your right to additional compensation—even if your injuries get worse

We’ll evaluate the offer and negotiate aggressively to get you the compensation you deserve.

4. How much is my 18-wheeler accident case worth?

Every case is unique, but trucking accident cases are typically worth far more than car accident cases because:

• The injuries are more severe (TBI, paralysis, amputation, wrongful death)
• The insurance limits are higher ($750K–$5M+)
• The neglect is often more egregious (falsified logs, ignored maintenance, negligent hiring)

Factors that affect case value:
✅ Severity of your injuries
✅ Medical expenses (past, present, future)
✅ Lost income and earning capacity
✅ Pain and suffering
✅ Degree of negligence (gross negligence = higher punitive damages)
✅ Insurance coverage available

We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims—let us evaluate your case for free.

5. Do I need a lawyer for an 18-wheeler accident case?

Yes—absolutely. Trucking accident cases are far more complex than car accident cases because:

• Multiple parties can be liable (driver, trucking company, cargo loader, maintenance company, manufacturer)
• Federal regulations apply (FMCSA, hours of service, cargo securement)
• Evidence disappears fast (black box data, dashcam footage, maintenance records)
• Insurance companies fight harder (they have teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim)

Statistics show that accident victims with lawyers recover 3–5 times more compensation than those who try to handle their case alone.

6. How much does it cost to hire an 18-wheeler accident lawyer?

At Attorney911, we work on contingency—which means:
✅ You pay nothing upfront
✅ We advance all costs of investigation and litigation
✅ You only pay if we win your case
✅ Our fee comes from the settlement, not your pocket

Typical contingency fee: 33–40% of the recovery (depending on case complexity).

7. Will my case go to trial?

Most trucking accident cases settle before trial—but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This forces insurance companies to offer fair settlements.

Cases that go to trial usually involve:

• Disputed liability (both sides claim the other was at fault)
• Lowball settlement offers (insurance company refuses to pay fair value)
• Punitive damages (trucking company acted with gross negligence)

We have the resources, experience, and willingness to take your case to trial if necessary.

8. How long does an 18-wheeler accident case take to resolve?

Timelines vary, but most cases follow this general timeline:

Case Type	Typical Timeline	Factors That Can Delay Resolution
Minor injuries, clear liability	6–12 months	Insurance company delays, disputed medical treatment
Moderate injuries, some liability disputes	12–24 months	Multiple defendants, complex medical treatment
Catastrophic injuries, disputed liability	2–4 years	Lengthy medical treatment, need for expert testimony, trial preparation
Wrongful death cases	18–36 months	Complex damages calculations, multiple beneficiaries

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

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

Even if the driver was an independent contractor, the trucking company may still be liable under:

• Negligent hiring (if they failed to check the driver’s background)
• Negligent supervision (if they failed to monitor the driver’s safety)
• Negligent maintenance (if they failed to inspect the truck)
• Vicarious liability (if the driver was acting within the scope of their contract)

We investigate all possible defendants to maximize your recovery.

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

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

• If you were less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages (but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault)
• If you were 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything

Example:
If you were 20% at fault and your damages total $1 million, you would recover $800,000 ($1M – 20%).

Our job is to minimize your percentage of fault by gathering evidence (ECM data, witness statements) that proves the truck driver was primarily responsible.

11. What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, you may still recover compensation from:

• The truck driver’s personal insurance
• The cargo owner’s insurance
• The maintenance company’s insurance
• The freight broker’s insurance
• Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage

We investigate all possible sources of recovery to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

12. Can I sue for PTSD after a trucking accident?

Yes. If you’re experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a trucking accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Mental anguish
• Emotional distress
• Therapy and counseling costs
• Lost enjoyment of life

Documentation from a psychologist or psychiatrist is essential to proving your PTSD claim.

13. What if the trucking company destroys evidence?

If the trucking company destroys evidence after receiving notice of potential litigation, they can be sanctioned by the court. Possible consequences include:

• Adverse inference instructions (jury told to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable)
• Monetary sanctions
• Default judgment (losing the case automatically)

This is why we send a spoliation letter immediately—to put them on notice and prevent evidence destruction.

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

If you don’t have health insurance, we can:

• Connect you with medical providers who will treat you under a Letter of Protection (LOP)—meaning they’ll wait to get paid until your case settles
• Help you apply for Medicaid or other assistance programs
• Advance the costs of medical treatment (you repay these costs from your settlement)

Your health comes first—don’t delay medical treatment because of insurance concerns.

15. How do I prove the truck driver was fatigued?

Proving fatigue requires multiple forms of evidence, including:

• ELD data (showing hours-of-service violations)
• Dispatch records (proving unrealistic delivery deadlines)
• Cell phone records (showing late-night communications)
• Witness statements (other drivers who saw the truck swerving)
• Expert testimony (sleep science experts who can prove fatigue)

We investigate all possible evidence to prove fatigue-related negligence.

The Lavaca County Trucking Corridors We Know Inside and Out

Lavaca County is crisscrossed by major trucking routes that see heavy commercial traffic—especially from oil field equipment, agricultural haulers, and commercial freight. Our team knows these corridors inside and out, including:

US-77 (The North-South Freight Highway)

• Runs through Hallettsville, Yoakum, and Shiner
• Major truck traffic from oil field equipment, livestock haulers, and commercial freight
• High accident rate due to:
  • Speeding (trucks often exceed 65 mph)
  • Fatigue-related crashes (long hauls from the Eagle Ford Shale)
  • Blind curves (especially near Hallettsville)
  • Narrow shoulders (making it difficult for trucks to pull over)

US-90A (The Gulf Coast Freight Corridor)

• Connects Hallettsville to Victoria and beyond
• Heavy truck traffic from port-bound freight, agricultural haulers, and oil field equipment
• High accident rate due to:
  • Wide turns (trucks swinging left before right turns)
  • Sudden stops (at intersections in Hallettsville and Shiner)
  • Poor lighting (in rural stretches)

SH-111 (The Rural Route with Hidden Dangers)

• Runs through Moulton and connects to US-77
• Used by agricultural haulers, oil field trucks, and local freight
• High accident rate due to:
  • Sharp curves (trucks often take them too fast)
  • Narrow bridges (making it difficult for large trucks to pass)
  • Lack of shoulders (forcing trucks to stop in travel lanes)

FM 532 (The Oil Field Trucking Hotspot)

• Connects to oil and gas fields in Lavaca County
• Heavy truck traffic from oil field equipment, hazmat haulers, and water trucks
• High accident rate due to:
  • Overloaded trucks (exceeding weight limits)
  • Poorly maintained roads (potholes, uneven surfaces)
  • Fatigue-related crashes (drivers working long hours in the oil field)

FM 236 (The Agricultural Hauling Route)

• Runs through rural Lavaca County
• Used by grain trucks, livestock haulers, and farm equipment
• High accident rate due to:
  • Wide loads (agricultural equipment extending into other lanes)
  • Slow-moving vehicles (tractors, combines)
  • Dust and debris (reducing visibility)

Why Lavaca County Trucking Accident Victims Choose Attorney911

If you’ve been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Lavaca County, you need a lawyer who:
✅ Knows the local courts, judges, and trucking corridors
✅ Has over 25 years of experience fighting trucking companies
✅ Won’t back down from tough cases
✅ Has a track record of multi-million dollar recoveries
✅ Works on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win

We’re not just Texas attorneys—we’re Lavaca County attorneys. We know the roads, the trucking companies, and the local legal landscape. And we know how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

Call Attorney911 Now—Before It’s Too Late

Every hour you wait, evidence in your Lavaca County trucking accident case is disappearing. Black box data gets overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw.

The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests—not yours.

Don’t let them get away with it.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll:
✅ Evaluate your case and explain your legal options
✅ Send a spoliation letter to preserve critical evidence
✅ Handle all communications with the insurance company
✅ Fight aggressively to get you the compensation you deserve

We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Time is critical. Call now: 1-888-ATTY-911.

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

At Attorney911, we understand that many trucking accident victims in Lavaca County speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

No importa si el accidente ocurrió en Hallettsville, Yoakum, Shiner, o Moulton—nosotros estamos aquí para ayudarle.

Llame hoy al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.

Client Testimonials: Why Lavaca County Families Trust Attorney911

“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

“One of Houston’s Great Men Trae Tha Truth has recommended this law firm. So if he is vouching for them then I know they do good work.”
— Jacqueline Johnson, Attorney911 Client

“Ralph reached out personally. The communication was consistent, and I never once felt like I was being ignored.”
— Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client

“I got a very nice settlement. The team got right to work.”
— Mongo Slade, Attorney911 Client

Attorney911: The Firm Insurers Fear

Trucking companies know our name. They know we:
✅ Don’t back down from tough cases
✅ Prepare every case as if it’s going to trial
✅ Have a track record of multi-million dollar recoveries
✅ Won’t settle for less than our clients deserve

When you hire Attorney911, you’re not just getting a lawyer—you’re getting a fighter.

Free Consultation. No Fee Unless We Win. 24/7 Availability.

📞 Call Now: 1-888-ATTY-911
📧 Email: ralph@atty911.com
🌐 Visit: Attorney911.com

Offices Serving Lavaca County:
📍 Houston | 1177 West Loop S, Suite 1600, Houston, TX 77027
📍 Austin | 316 West 12th Street, Suite 311, Austin, TX 78701
📍 Beaumont | Available for client meetings

We answer the phone 24/7. Call now.