18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Matagorda County: Fighting for Your Justice After a Devastating Truck Crash

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Matagorda County, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. The physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial uncertainty can feel overwhelming. At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through because we’ve helped hundreds of Texas families just like yours recover from catastrophic truck crashes. Our Matagorda County 18-wheeler accident attorneys are here to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Why Matagorda County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Matagorda County’s unique geography and transportation corridors create specific risks for trucking accidents. Our county sits along the Gulf Coast, serving as a critical link between major ports and inland distribution centers. This means our roads carry a high volume of commercial truck traffic, including:

I-10 corridor traffic heading to and from Houston and beyond
State Highway 35 connecting Bay City to major shipping routes
Local agricultural and oilfield trucking serving Matagorda County’s industries
Port-related freight moving through our county to inland destinations

The combination of coastal weather, heavy industrial traffic, and rural road conditions creates a perfect storm for dangerous truck accidents. When these massive vehicles crash, the results are often catastrophic.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Matagorda County

Every year, thousands of people are injured or killed in commercial truck crashes across Texas. In Matagorda County, we see the same tragic patterns:

80,000 pounds of steel colliding with your family vehicle
Trucks that need 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields
Drivers pressured to violate federal safety regulations to meet deadlines
Trucking companies that prioritize profits over safety

When an 18-wheeler crashes into a passenger vehicle, the results are often life-changing. We’ve seen clients suffer:

Traumatic brain injuries that alter personalities and cognitive abilities
Spinal cord damage resulting in paralysis
Amputations from crushing injuries
Severe burns from fuel fires
Internal organ damage requiring emergency surgery
Wrongful death leaving families devastated

These aren’t just injuries – they’re life sentences that affect every aspect of your future. That’s why you need a Matagorda County trucking accident lawyer who understands both the legal complexities and the human impact of these crashes.

Why the Trucking Company Has the Advantage – And How We Level the Playing Field

When you’re injured in an 18-wheeler accident, you’re not just fighting the truck driver – you’re fighting an entire industry. Trucking companies have:

Rapid-response investigation teams that arrive at crash scenes within hours
Teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim
Millions in insurance coverage – but they’ll fight to pay you as little as possible
Insider knowledge of how to manipulate the legal system

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting these tactics. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies try to minimize claims. We use that insider knowledge to build stronger cases for our clients.

The Critical 48-Hour Window: Why Immediate Action Is Essential

In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears fast. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests – you need to move just as quickly to protect yours.

What Can Be Lost Forever:

Black box data (ECM/EDR) – overwritten in as little as 30 days
ELD records – may be retained for only 6 months
Dashcam footage – often deleted within 7-14 days
Surveillance video – businesses typically overwrite footage within 30 days
Physical evidence – trucks may be repaired or sold for parts
Witness memories – details fade quickly after an accident

What We Do Immediately:

Send spoliation letters to preserve all evidence
Demand black box data before it’s overwritten
Secure ELD records to prove hours-of-service violations
Obtain surveillance footage from nearby businesses
Photograph the accident scene before conditions change
Interview witnesses while memories are fresh
Preserve the truck and trailer for expert inspection

“Every hour you wait, evidence in your Matagorda County trucking accident case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. Call Attorney911 NOW at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence.”

The Most Dangerous Trucking Corridors in Matagorda County

Our attorneys know Matagorda County’s trucking routes intimately. Some of the most dangerous areas include:

I-10 through Matagorda County – Heavy truck traffic from Houston to Louisiana
State Highway 35 – Connects Bay City to major shipping routes
FM 457 and FM 521 – Rural roads with agricultural and oilfield truck traffic
FM 1095 and FM 2611 – Routes to local industrial facilities
Port of Bay City area – High volume of freight transfer activity
FM 2037 and FM 1728 – Rural roads with limited lighting and signage

These routes see frequent truck accidents due to:

High traffic volume mixing commercial and passenger vehicles
Coastal weather conditions that create hazardous driving conditions
Long stretches of rural highway where fatigue becomes a factor
Port-related congestion as trucks transfer cargo
Industrial traffic from local oil and gas operations

Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Matagorda County

Our attorneys have handled every type of trucking accident that occurs in Matagorda County:

1. Jackknife Accidents

When a truck’s cab and trailer fold at an angle like a pocket knife, often blocking multiple lanes. Common on I-10 and Highway 35 when drivers brake suddenly on wet roads.

Common causes in Matagorda County:

Sudden braking on wet or slick roads
Speeding on curves (especially near FM 457 intersections)
Empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing)
Improper braking technique
Brake system failures

2. Underride Collisions

When a passenger vehicle slides underneath a trailer, often shearing off the roof. These are among the most deadly truck accidents.

Matagorda County factors:

Poor lighting conditions on rural roads
Missing or inadequate underride guards
Sudden stops at intersections (Highway 35 and FM 457)
Wide turns at rural crossroads

3. Rollover Accidents

When an 18-wheeler tips onto its side, often causing cargo spills and blocking multiple lanes.

Local risk factors:

Speeding on I-10 curves
Improperly secured agricultural loads
Liquid cargo sloshing in tankers
High winds from coastal weather
Sharp turns at rural intersections

4. Rear-End Collisions

When a truck strikes the back of another vehicle, often with devastating force due to the truck’s massive weight.

Common in Matagorda County:

Following too closely on I-10
Driver distraction (cell phones, dispatch communications)
Fatigue-related delayed reactions
Brake failures on long descents
Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns near Bay City

5. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

When a truck swings wide to make a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter, only to be crushed when the truck completes its turn.

Matagorda County hotspots:

Highway 35 and FM 457 intersections
Bay City downtown area with tight turns
Rural intersections with limited visibility
Port access roads with frequent turns

6. Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)

When a truck changes lanes or turns without seeing vehicles in its blind spots.

Most dangerous areas:

Right side of trucks (largest blind spot)
Directly behind trailers
Immediately in front of cabs
Left side (though smaller than right side)

7. Tire Blowout Accidents

When a tire fails suddenly, causing the driver to lose control. Common in Matagorda County due to heat, road debris, and long hauls.

Local factors:

Extreme heat causing tire degradation
Road debris from agricultural equipment
Long distances between truck stops
Overloaded vehicles exceeding tire capacity
Poor maintenance practices

8. Brake Failure Accidents

When a truck’s braking system fails, preventing the driver from stopping in time.

Matagorda County issues:

Long descents on rural roads
Deferred maintenance to save costs
Improper brake adjustments
Air brake system leaks
Overheated brakes on long hauls

9. Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents

When improperly secured cargo falls from a truck or shifts during transit, causing instability.

Common in our county:

Agricultural loads from local farms
Oilfield equipment transport
Liquid cargo in tankers
Improperly secured loads from ports
Overweight vehicles exceeding securement capacity

10. Head-On Collisions

When a truck crosses into oncoming traffic, often with fatal results.

Matagorda County risks:

Driver fatigue on long rural stretches
Distracted driving (cell phones, GPS)
Impaired driving
Medical emergencies (heart attack, seizure)
Wrong-way entry onto divided highways

The FMCSA Regulations That Trucking Companies Violate – And How We Prove It

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates every aspect of commercial trucking. When trucking companies violate these regulations, they create dangerous conditions that cause accidents. Our attorneys know these regulations inside and out, and we use them to build strong cases for our clients.

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

The most commonly violated regulations – and the most dangerous.

FMCSA Rules:

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
34-hour restart required after reaching weekly limits

How We Prove Violations:

ELD data showing driving time and rest breaks
Dispatch records proving schedule pressure
GPS tracking showing continuous driving
Witness testimony about driver behavior
Cell phone records showing communication patterns

Why It Matters: Fatigue causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. When drivers violate HOS regulations, they’re too tired to react safely.

2. Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391)

Trucking companies must ensure drivers are qualified and safe.

FMCSA Requirements:

Valid commercial driver’s license (CDL)
Medical certification
Clean driving record
Background check
Proper training
Drug and alcohol testing

How We Prove Violations:

Driver Qualification File (or lack thereof)
Employment application showing false information
Driving record showing previous violations
Medical certification showing disqualifying conditions
Drug test results showing impairment

Why It Matters: Hiring unqualified drivers is negligent. If the trucking company failed to properly vet their driver, they’re liable for the harm caused.

3. Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396)

Trucks must be properly maintained to operate safely.

FMCSA Requirements:

Systematic inspection and maintenance
Driver pre-trip and post-trip inspections
Annual comprehensive inspections
Immediate repair of defects
Maintenance records retention

How We Prove Violations:

Maintenance records showing deferred repairs
Inspection reports showing known defects
Driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs)
Out-of-service orders showing repeated violations
Expert inspection of failed components

Why It Matters: Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes. Poor maintenance directly causes accidents.

4. Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR Part 393)

Cargo must be properly secured to prevent spills and shifts.

FMCSA Requirements:

Proper tiedowns based on cargo weight
Working load limits for securement devices
Specific requirements for different cargo types
Regular inspection during transport
Proper blocking and bracing

How We Prove Violations:

Cargo manifest showing weight and type
Loading records showing securement methods
Photographs of tiedowns and blocking
Expert analysis of securement failure
Witness testimony about shifting loads

Why It Matters: Shifted cargo causes rollovers. Spilled cargo creates road hazards. Both lead to catastrophic accidents.

5. Drug and Alcohol Violations (49 CFR Part 382)

Drivers must be free from impairment.

FMCSA Requirements:

Pre-employment drug testing
Random drug and alcohol testing
Post-accident testing
Reasonable suspicion testing
Return-to-duty testing

How We Prove Violations:

Drug test results showing positive tests
Test refusal records
Prescription records showing impairment potential
Witness testimony about driver behavior
Toxicology reports from accident scene

Why It Matters: Impaired driving is a leading cause of truck accidents. Even prescription medications can impair driving ability.

All the Parties We Hold Accountable in Matagorda County Trucking Cases

In car accident cases, you typically sue one driver. In trucking cases, multiple parties can be liable for your injuries. Our attorneys investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

1. The Truck Driver

The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable for negligent conduct such as:

Speeding or reckless driving
Distracted driving (cell phone, texting, dispatch communications)
Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
Violation of traffic laws

2. The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

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

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

The driver was an employee (not independent contractor)
Acting within the scope of employment
Performing job duties when accident occurred

Direct Negligence:

Negligent Hiring: Failed to check driver’s background
Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance
Negligent Maintenance: Failed to maintain vehicle
Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate HOS

3. The Cargo Owner / Shipper

The company that owns the cargo may be liable for:

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

4. The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

Improper cargo securement
Unbalanced load distribution
Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
Failure to use proper blocking and bracing

5. The Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

Manufacturers may be liable for:

Design defects (brake systems, stability control)
Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
Failure to warn of known dangers
Defective safety systems

6. The Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufacture specific parts may be liable for:

Defective brakes or brake components
Defective tires causing blowouts
Defective steering mechanisms
Defective lighting components

7. The Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance companies may be liable for:

Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
Failure to identify critical safety issues
Improper brake adjustments
Using substandard or wrong parts

8. The Freight Broker

Freight brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

Negligent selection of unsafe carriers
Failure to verify carrier insurance
Failure to check carrier safety records

9. The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

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

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

10. Government Entities

Federal, state, or local government may be liable for:

Dangerous road design
Failure to maintain roads
Inadequate signage
Failure to install safety barriers

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Matagorda County Trucking Accidents

The size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles means trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries. We’ve helped clients recover from:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

What it is: Damage to the brain caused by sudden trauma.

Severity levels:

Mild (Concussion): Confusion, headache, brief loss of consciousness
Moderate: Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits
Severe: Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment

Common symptoms:

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

Long-term consequences:

Permanent cognitive impairment
Inability to work
Need for lifelong care
Increased risk of dementia
Emotional and psychological disorders

Lifetime care costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

What it is: Damage to the spinal cord disrupting communication between brain and body.

Types of paralysis:

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

Lifetime care costs:

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

Amputation

Types:

Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the scene
Surgical Amputation: Limb so damaged it must be removed

Ongoing needs:

Initial surgery and hospitalization
Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ each)
Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
Physical and occupational therapy
Psychological counseling

Impact on life:

Permanent disability
Career limitations
Phantom limb pain
Psychological trauma
Home modifications needed

Severe Burns

How they occur:

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

Burn classification:

First Degree: Epidermis only (minor)
Second Degree: Epidermis and dermis (may scar)
Third Degree: Full thickness (requires grafts)
Fourth Degree: Through skin to muscle/bone

Long-term consequences:

Permanent scarring and disfigurement
Multiple reconstructive surgeries
Chronic pain
Infection risks
Psychological trauma

Internal Organ Damage

Common injuries:

Liver laceration or rupture
Spleen damage requiring removal
Kidney damage
Lung contusion or collapse
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

Who can bring a claim in Texas:

Surviving spouse
Children (minor and adult)
Parents (if no spouse or children)
Estate representative

Damages available:

Lost future income and benefits
Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
Mental anguish and emotional suffering
Funeral and burial expenses
Medical expenses before death
Pain and suffering before death
Punitive damages (if gross negligence)

The Multi-Million Dollar Results We Fight For

Trucking companies carry significantly higher insurance limits than typical auto policies. This means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated. We’ve helped clients recover:

Economic damages: Medical expenses, lost wages, property damage
Non-economic damages: Pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment
Punitive damages: When trucking companies act with gross negligence

Recent nuclear verdicts in trucking cases demonstrate what’s possible:

$1 Billion (Florida, 2021) – 18-year-old killed, $900M punitive
$730 Million (Texas, 2021) – Navy propeller oversize load
$462 Million (Missouri, 2024) – Underride decapitation
$160 Million (Alabama, 2024) – Quadriplegic injury
$150 Million (Texas, 2022) – Two children killed on I-30

Texas damage caps:

Punitive damages: Greater of (2x economic + non-economic capped at $750,000) OR $200,000
Non-economic damages: No cap for motor vehicle accidents (unlike medical malpractice)

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Matagorda County Trucking Accident Case

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team of aggressive advocates who understand the trucking industry’s tactics. Here’s what sets our Matagorda County 18-wheeler accident attorneys apart:

1. 25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of the largest trucking companies in America, including Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS.

2. Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurers evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. He spent years on the other side – now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

3. Federal Court Experience for Interstate Cases

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for interstate trucking cases that often involve federal regulations.

4. Former BP Texas City Explosion Litigation Experience

We were one of the few Texas firms involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation – a $2.1 billion disaster case. This demonstrates our ability to handle complex, high-stakes industrial cases against major corporations.

5. Spanish-Language Services for Matagorda County’s Hispanic Community

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español. Many trucking accident victims in Matagorda County speak Spanish as their primary language, and we ensure they receive the same high-quality representation.

6. Proven Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims across Texas:

$5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
$3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement
$2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases
$10M+ University of Houston hazing lawsuit (active)

7. Comprehensive Investigation Resources

We have the resources to thoroughly investigate your case:

Accident reconstruction experts
Medical experts to establish injury causation
Vocational experts to calculate lost earning capacity
Economic experts to determine present value of damages
Life care planners for catastrophic injuries
FMCSA regulation experts

8. Contingency Fee Representation – No Fee Unless We Win

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.

Our Matagorda County Trucking Accident Case Process

When you choose Attorney911, here’s what you can expect:

1. Free Initial Consultation

We’ll evaluate your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options – with no obligation.

2. Immediate Evidence Preservation

We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve all evidence before it’s destroyed.

3. Comprehensive Investigation

We gather all available evidence:

ECM/black box data
ELD records
Driver Qualification File
Maintenance records
Drug and alcohol test results
Cell phone records
GPS tracking data
Dashcam footage
Witness statements
Accident scene photos

4. Medical Care Coordination

We help you get the medical treatment you need, even if you don’t have insurance. We work with doctors who will treat you on a lien basis.

5. Demand Letter Preparation

We prepare a comprehensive demand letter calculating all your damages and demanding fair compensation.

6. Aggressive Negotiation

We negotiate with the insurance companies from a position of strength, knowing we’re prepared to take your case to trial.

7. Litigation (If Necessary)

If the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we file a lawsuit and aggressively pursue your case in court.

8. Trial Preparation

We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This creates leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready if your case goes to court.

Common Questions About Matagorda County Trucking Accident Cases

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

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

Call 911 and report the accident
Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
Document the scene with photos and video if possible
Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
Collect witness contact information
Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately

Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?

YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Matagorda General Hospital and local trauma centers 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 Matagorda 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 Matagorda 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 as long as you were less than 50% responsible. 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 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 airplane black boxes. This data can show:

Speed before and during the crash
Brake application timing
Engine RPM and throttle position
Whether cruise control was engaged
GPS location

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are federally mandated devices that record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued. Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents.

How long does the trucking company keep black box and ELD data?

ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention for ELD data. This is why we send spoliation letters immediately – once we notify them of litigation, they must preserve everything.

What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We pursue:

ECM/Black box data
ELD records
Driver Qualification File
Maintenance records
Inspection reports
Dispatch logs
Drug and alcohol test results
Training records
Cell phone records
Insurance policies
The physical truck and trailer

Can the trucking company destroy evidence?

Once they’re on notice of potential litigation, destroying evidence is spoliation – a serious legal violation. Courts can:

Instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable
Impose monetary sanctions
Enter default judgment in extreme cases
Award punitive damages

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

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

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

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

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find:

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

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

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

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

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

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

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

What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in Matagorda County?

Due to the massive size and weight disparity, trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries:

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

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Matagorda 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 Matagorda 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 Matagorda County?

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.

The Attorney911 Advantage: Why We’re the Right Choice for Matagorda County Trucking Accidents

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just legal representation – you need a team that will fight aggressively for your rights. Here’s what you get when you choose Attorney911:

1. Local Knowledge of Matagorda County

We know Matagorda County’s roads, courts, and trucking corridors. We understand the unique challenges of trucking accidents in our county, from the heavy port traffic to the rural road conditions.

2. Immediate Action to Preserve Evidence

We don’t wait. Within hours of being retained, we send spoliation letters to preserve critical evidence before it’s destroyed. We know how quickly black box data, ELD records, and dashcam footage can disappear.

3. Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for the other side. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims – and how to counter those tactics.

4. Federal Court Experience for Complex Cases

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for interstate trucking cases that often involve federal regulations.

5. Proven Track Record of Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims across Texas. Our results include:

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

6. Comprehensive Investigation Resources

We have the resources to thoroughly investigate your case:

Accident reconstruction experts
Medical experts to establish injury causation
Vocational experts to calculate lost earning capacity
Economic experts to determine present value of damages
Life care planners for catastrophic injuries
FMCSA regulation experts

7. Spanish-Language Services for Our Community

8. Contingency Fee Representation – No Risk to You

9. Personal Attention from Experienced Attorneys

At Attorney911, you’re not just another case number. Our managing partner Ralph Manginello is personally involved in every case. We treat our clients like family because we understand the devastating impact these accidents have on families.

10. Aggressive Representation Against Major Corporations

We’ve taken on some of the largest trucking companies in America, including Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS. We know how to fight these corporate giants and win.

Don’t Let the Trucking Company Win – Fight Back Now

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Matagorda County, you need to act quickly. The trucking company already has a team of lawyers working to protect their interests – you need someone fighting for you.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. Our Matagorda County trucking accident attorneys are available 24/7 to answer your questions and explain your legal options.

Remember:

Evidence disappears fast – black box data can be overwritten in 30 days
The trucking company is already working to minimize your claim
You have only 2 years to file a lawsuit in Texas
You pay nothing unless we win your case

“Every hour you wait, evidence in your Matagorda County trucking accident case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. Call Attorney911 NOW at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence.”

Don’t face this alone. Let our experienced Matagorda County 18-wheeler accident attorneys fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. Hablamos Español.