18-Wheeler Accidents in McCulloch County: What You Need to Know After a Trucking Crash

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in McCulloch County, you’re facing one of the most complex and dangerous situations on Texas roads. The aftermath of a trucking crash can be overwhelming – severe injuries, mounting medical bills, lost wages, and dealing with trucking companies that have teams of lawyers working to protect their interests. At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through, and we’re here to help McCulloch County families fight for the justice and compensation they deserve.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in McCulloch County Are Different

Trucking accidents aren’t like regular car accidents. The physics alone make them far more dangerous. An 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds – that’s 20-25 times heavier than the average passenger car. When these massive vehicles collide with smaller cars on McCulloch County’s highways, the results are often catastrophic.

The trucking industry is also governed by complex federal regulations that don’t apply to regular vehicles. These rules, established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), cover everything from how long drivers can operate without rest to how cargo must be secured. When trucking companies violate these regulations, they put everyone on McCulloch County roads at risk.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in McCulloch County

Our experience handling trucking cases throughout McCulloch County has shown us that most 18-wheeler accidents are preventable. They’re caused by negligence, corner-cutting, and a failure to prioritize safety over profits. Here are the most common causes we see:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Truck drivers in McCulloch County often face intense pressure to meet tight delivery deadlines. This leads to one of the most common – and dangerous – violations: driving while fatigued. FMCSA regulations limit drivers to:

11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
A maximum 14-hour on-duty window
A required 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
60/70-hour weekly limits with mandatory rest periods

When drivers violate these rules, they become dangerously impaired. Fatigue slows reaction times, decreases awareness, and increases the risk of falling asleep at the wheel. In fact, studies show that driving after being awake for 18 hours is equivalent to having a blood alcohol content of 0.05%.

Improper Maintenance and Equipment Failures

McCulloch County’s trucks travel thousands of miles on our highways, and proper maintenance is essential for safety. Unfortunately, some trucking companies cut corners to save money. Common maintenance failures include:

Worn or improperly adjusted brakes
Bald or underinflated tires
Faulty steering components
Broken or missing lights and reflectors
Defective coupling devices

Brake failures alone account for nearly 30% of all trucking accidents. When a truck’s brakes fail on US-87 or US-190, the results can be devastating.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is dangerous for any driver, but when an 80,000-pound truck is involved, the consequences can be deadly. Truck drivers face unique distractions:

Dispatch communications
GPS devices
Electronic logging devices (ELDs)
Cell phones and texting
Eating and drinking while driving
External distractions (billboards, scenery)

Federal regulations specifically prohibit truck drivers from using hand-held mobile phones while driving. Despite this, distracted driving remains a significant problem on McCulloch County roads.

Improper Loading and Cargo Securement

When cargo isn’t properly loaded or secured, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable. In some cases, cargo can even fall from the truck, creating hazards for other vehicles. FMCSA regulations require:

Proper distribution of weight
Adequate tiedowns based on cargo type and weight
Protection against shifting and falling cargo
Regular inspections of securement devices

Improperly secured loads are particularly dangerous on McCulloch County’s highways, where high winds and uneven road surfaces can exacerbate the problem.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Trucks require much longer stopping distances than passenger vehicles. A fully loaded truck traveling at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields. When truck drivers speed or drive recklessly, they put everyone at risk. Common reckless behaviors include:

Following too closely
Improper lane changes
Aggressive driving
Failing to adjust speed for weather conditions
Ignoring traffic signals and signs

Drug and Alcohol Use

While drug and alcohol use is less common than other violations, it remains a serious problem. FMCSA regulations prohibit truck drivers from:

Using alcohol within 4 hours of going on duty
Operating a CMV with a blood alcohol content of 0.04% or higher
Using controlled substances (with limited exceptions for prescribed medications)
Possessing alcohol or controlled substances while on duty

Random drug and alcohol testing is required, but some drivers still take the risk, endangering everyone on McCulloch County roads.

Types of Trucking Accidents We See in McCulloch County

Trucking accidents take many forms, but some are particularly common in McCulloch County:

Jackknife Accidents

A jackknife occurs when the trailer swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the cab, resembling a folding pocket knife. These accidents are often caused by:

Sudden or improper braking
Speeding, especially on curves
Empty or lightly loaded trailers
Slippery road conditions
Improperly secured cargo

Jackknife accidents are particularly dangerous because the trailer can sweep across multiple lanes of traffic, striking multiple vehicles.

Underride Collisions

Underride collisions occur when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of a truck and slides underneath the trailer. These accidents are often fatal because the trailer can shear off the top of the smaller vehicle. Underride accidents are caused by:

Inadequate or missing underride guards
Poor visibility (especially at night)
Sudden stops by trucks
Improper lane changes by trucks

Federal regulations require rear underride guards on most trailers, but side underride guards are not currently mandated, despite their potential to save lives.

Rollover Accidents

Truck rollovers are among the most catastrophic types of accidents. They occur when a truck tips onto its side or roof. Common causes include:

Speeding on curves or ramps
Improperly loaded or shifting cargo
Top-heavy loads
Sudden steering maneuvers
Tire blowouts

Rollover accidents often result in multiple-vehicle crashes as the truck blocks multiple lanes of traffic.

Rear-End Collisions

When a truck rear-ends a smaller vehicle, the results are often devastating. These accidents are typically caused by:

Following too closely
Driver distraction
Driver fatigue
Brake failures
Speeding

Trucks require much longer stopping distances than passenger vehicles, so truck drivers must leave ample space between their vehicle and the one in front.

Wide Turn Accidents

Trucks need extra space to make turns, especially right turns. When a truck swings wide to the left before making a right turn, it can create a dangerous situation known as a “squeeze play.” Smaller vehicles may try to pass the truck on the right, only to be caught when the truck completes its turn.

Blind Spot Accidents

Trucks have large blind spots, often called “No-Zones,” where the driver cannot see other vehicles. These blind spots include:

Directly in front of the cab
Directly behind the trailer
Along both sides of the trailer (especially the right side)

When truck drivers change lanes without checking these blind spots, they can collide with vehicles they can’t see.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a McCulloch County Trucking Accident?

One of the most important differences between trucking accidents and regular car accidents is that multiple parties can be held liable. At Attorney911, we investigate every possible defendant to ensure you can recover the maximum compensation you deserve. Potential liable parties include:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for negligent actions such as:

Speeding or reckless driving
Distracted driving
Driving while fatigued
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Failing to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
Violating traffic laws

The Trucking Company

The trucking company can be held liable through several legal doctrines:

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

Direct Negligence: Trucking companies can be directly liable for:

Negligent hiring (failing to properly vet drivers)
Negligent training (providing inadequate safety training)
Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver performance)
Negligent maintenance (failing to properly maintain vehicles)
Negligent scheduling (pressuring drivers to violate hours of service regulations)

The Cargo Owner or Shipper

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

Providing improper loading instructions
Failing to disclose the hazardous nature of cargo
Requiring overweight loads
Pressuring the carrier to meet unrealistic delivery deadlines

The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party companies that physically load cargo onto trucks can be liable for:

Improper cargo securement
Unbalanced load distribution
Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
Failing to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

Manufacturers can be held liable for defects in:

Brake systems
Steering components
Tires
Coupling devices
Safety systems (such as anti-lock brakes or electronic stability control)

Parts Manufacturers

Companies that manufacture specific parts can be liable for:

Defective brake components
Defective tires
Defective steering mechanisms
Defective lighting components
Defective coupling devices

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance companies can be liable for:

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

Freight Brokers

Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks can be liable for:

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

The Truck Owner (If Different from the Carrier)

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

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

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, government entities can be liable for:

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

The Critical Importance of Evidence Preservation

One of the most important things to understand about trucking accident cases is that evidence disappears quickly. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act fast, critical evidence can be lost forever.

At Attorney911, we have a 48-hour evidence preservation protocol. When you call us after a McCulloch County trucking accident, we immediately:

Send formal preservation letters to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties
Demand immediate download of all electronic data
Subpoena cell phone records
Secure police crash reports and 911 call recordings
Canvass the accident scene for security camera footage
Photograph all damage and road conditions
Interview witnesses before memories fade
Hire accident reconstruction experts for complex crashes

Black Box Data: The Truck’s Silent Witness

Modern commercial trucks are equipped with sophisticated electronic systems that continuously record operational data. This data, often called “black box” data, can be crucial evidence in your case. The types of data available include:

Engine Control Module (ECM) Data:

Vehicle speed before and during the crash
Engine RPM
Throttle position
Cruise control status
Fault codes indicating mechanical issues

Event Data Recorder (EDR) Data:

Pre-crash data triggered by sudden deceleration or airbag deployment
Brake application timing and force
Steering inputs
Seat belt usage

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Data:

Driver hours of service
Duty status (driving, on-duty not driving, off-duty)
GPS location history
Driving time and rest breaks

Telematics Data:

Real-time GPS tracking
Vehicle speed history
Route information
Driver behavior metrics

This data is objective and tamper-resistant. It can directly contradict what the driver claims happened, proving speeding, fatigue, or other violations.

Why Time Is of the Essence

Critical evidence in trucking cases has limited lifespans:

ECM/Black Box Data: Can be overwritten in as little as 30 days or with new driving events
ELD Data: FMCSA only requires 6 months retention, but companies may delete it sooner
Dashcam Footage: Often deleted within 7-14 days
Surveillance Video: Business cameras typically overwrite in 7-30 days
Physical Evidence: The truck may be repaired, sold, or scrapped
Witness Memory: Fades significantly within weeks

Once we send a preservation letter, the trucking company has a legal obligation to preserve all evidence. Destroying evidence after receiving this notice can result in serious legal consequences, including:

Adverse inference instructions (the jury will be told to assume the destroyed evidence was unfavorable)
Monetary sanctions
Default judgment in extreme cases
Punitive damages

Catastrophic Injuries from McCulloch County Trucking Accidents

The massive size and weight of 18-wheelers mean that trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. These injuries can change your life in an instant, requiring extensive medical treatment and affecting your ability to work and enjoy life. Common catastrophic injuries we see in McCulloch County trucking cases include:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In trucking accidents, this often happens when the head strikes the steering wheel, dashboard, or another object. TBI can range from mild concussions to severe, life-altering injuries.

Severity Levels:

Level	Symptoms	Prognosis
Mild (Concussion)	Brief loss of consciousness, confusion, headache, dizziness	Usually recovers with time, but may have lasting effects
Moderate	Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits	Significant recovery possible with rehabilitation
Severe	Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment	Lifelong disability, may require 24/7 care

Common Symptoms:

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

Long-Term Consequences:

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

The lifetime cost of caring for a severe TBI can exceed $3 million.

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Spinal cord injuries occur when damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and body. These injuries often result in paralysis.

Types of Paralysis:

Type	Definition	Impact
Paraplegia	Loss of function below the waist	Cannot walk, may affect bladder/bowel control
Quadriplegia (Tetraplegia)	Loss of function in all four limbs	Cannot walk or use arms, may need breathing assistance
Incomplete Injury	Some nerve function remains	Variable – may have some sensation or movement
Complete Injury	No nerve function below injury	Total loss of sensation and movement

Level of Injury Matters:

Higher injuries (cervical spine) affect more body functions
C1-C4 injuries may require a ventilator for breathing
Lower injuries (lumbar) affect legs but not arms

The lifetime cost of caring for a spinal cord injury can range from $1.1 million for low paraplegia to $5 million or more for high quadriplegia.

Amputations

Amputations can occur at the scene of the accident due to the crushing forces involved, or they may be necessary later due to severe damage or infection.

Types of Amputation:

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

Ongoing Medical Needs:

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

Impact on Life:

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

Severe Burns

Burns are common in trucking accidents due to:

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

Burn Classification:

Degree	Depth	Treatment
First	Epidermis only	Minor, heals without scarring
Second	Epidermis and dermis	May scar, may need grafting
Third	Full thickness	Requires skin grafts, permanent scarring
Fourth	Through skin to muscle/bone	Multiple surgeries, amputation may be required

Long-Term Consequences:

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

Internal Organ Damage

The forces involved in trucking accidents can cause severe internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Common internal injuries include:

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

These injuries can be life-threatening and require emergency surgery.

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident takes a life, surviving family members can pursue a wrongful death claim. In Texas, the following family members can bring a wrongful death claim:

Surviving spouse
Children (minor and adult)
Parents (especially if there is no spouse or children)

Types of Damages Available:

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

Understanding Trucking Insurance and Damages

One of the most important differences between trucking accidents and regular car accidents is the amount of insurance coverage available. Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry much higher insurance limits than regular vehicles.

Federal Minimum Liability Limits:

Cargo Type	Minimum Coverage
Non-Hazardous Freight (10,001+ lbs GVWR)	$750,000
Oil/Petroleum (10,001+ lbs GVWR)	$1,000,000
Large Equipment (10,001+ lbs GVWR)	$1,000,000
Hazardous Materials (All)	$5,000,000
Passengers (16+ passengers)	$5,000,000
Passengers (15 or fewer)	$1,500,000

Many trucking companies carry even higher limits, often $1-5 million or more. This higher coverage means that catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.

Types of Damages You Can Recover

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):

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

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life):

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

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence):

Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company or driver acted with:

Gross negligence
Willful misconduct
Conscious indifference to safety
Fraud (such as falsifying logs or destroying evidence)

Texas law caps punitive damages at the greater of:

Two times the amount of economic damages plus an amount equal to non-economic damages (capped at $750,000), or
$200,000

However, there is no cap on punitive damages for certain types of cases, including those involving intoxication.

Nuclear Verdicts: What’s Possible in Trucking Cases

In recent years, juries have been awarding massive verdicts against trucking companies that act with gross negligence. These “nuclear verdicts” demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable.

Recent Major Trucking Verdicts:

Amount	Year	Location	Case Details
$1 Billion	2021	Florida	18-year-old killed; $100M compensatory + $900M punitive; gross negligence in hiring
$730 Million	2021	Texas	Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger; Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman; $480M compensatory + $250M punitive
$462 Million	2024	Missouri	St. Louis underride case; two men decapitated
$160 Million	2024	Alabama	Daimler; rollover left driver quadriplegic
$150 Million	2022	Texas	Werner settlement; two children killed on I-30
$141.5 Million	2023	Florida	Defunct carrier case
$90 Million	—	Houston, TX	Truck driver burned in explosion
$37.5 Million	2024	Texas	Trucking verdict
$35.5 Million	—	Texas	Family injured in truck accident
$35 Million	2025	Fort Worth, TX	Largest in Tarrant County

These verdicts show what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable for their negligence. Insurance companies know that juries are willing to award massive damages when they see a pattern of safety violations or corporate indifference to human life.

The McCulloch County Trucking Corridor: Where Accidents Happen

McCulloch County sits at the crossroads of several major trucking routes. Our location makes us a hub for commercial traffic, but it also means our roads see more than their share of trucking accidents. Understanding these corridors helps us investigate accidents and build stronger cases for our clients.

US-87: The North-South Artery

US-87 runs north-south through McCulloch County, connecting San Angelo to the north with Brady and points south. This highway carries:

Oil field equipment and supplies
Agricultural products
General freight
Local traffic

The stretch of US-87 through McCulloch County is particularly dangerous due to:

Heavy truck traffic
Narrow shoulders
Limited passing opportunities
Intersections with county roads
Wildlife crossings

US-190: The East-West Corridor

US-190 crosses McCulloch County from east to west, connecting Brady with San Saba to the east and Menard to the west. This highway carries:

Agricultural products (especially from the rich farmland east of Brady)
Oil field traffic
General freight
Local traffic

Danger points on US-190 include:

The intersection with US-87 in Brady
Narrow bridges
Sharp curves
Limited visibility at some intersections

US-377: The Diagonal Route

US-377 enters McCulloch County from the northwest and exits to the southeast, connecting with US-87 and US-190. This highway carries:

Oil field traffic
Agricultural products
General freight
Local traffic

The diagonal route of US-377 creates unique challenges:

Varying road conditions
Mixed traffic patterns
Limited passing zones
Intersections with county roads

State Highway 71: The Local Connector

While not a major interstate, State Highway 71 plays an important role in McCulloch County’s transportation network, connecting with US-87 and providing access to rural areas. This highway carries:

Local traffic
Agricultural products
Oil field equipment
School buses

Danger points include:

Narrow bridges
Limited shoulders
Sharp curves
Intersections with county roads

County Roads: The Hidden Danger

Many of McCulloch County’s trucking accidents occur on county roads. These roads often:

Have poor lighting
Lack proper signage
Have narrow lanes and shoulders
Are not designed for heavy truck traffic
Have limited maintenance

Truck drivers unfamiliar with these roads can easily become disoriented, leading to accidents.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your McCulloch County Trucking Case

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident in McCulloch County, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team that understands the unique challenges of trucking litigation and has the resources to take on the trucking industry. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:

Decades of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. With over 25 years of experience, he has handled hundreds of trucking cases and recovered millions of dollars for McCulloch County families.

We’re not afraid to take on the big trucking companies. We’ve successfully litigated against:

Walmart trucking operations
Coca-Cola distribution vehicles
Amazon delivery trucks
FedEx trucks
UPS trucks
Various commercial trucking companies

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for a national defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.

This unique perspective gives us an advantage in:

Understanding how insurance companies value claims
Recognizing their manipulation tactics
Knowing what makes them settle
Countering their strategies to minimize payouts

Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court admission is crucial for trucking cases, which often involve:

Interstate commerce
Federal regulations
Complex liability issues
Multiple defendants

Proven Track Record of Results

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 trucking-related wrongful death cases

Comprehensive Investigation Resources

Trucking cases require extensive investigation. We have the resources to:

Immediately send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
Obtain and analyze black box and ELD data
Hire accident reconstruction experts
Work with medical experts to document injuries
Retain vocational experts to calculate lost earning capacity
Engage economic experts to determine the present value of all damages
Consult with life care planners to develop comprehensive care plans

Local Knowledge of McCulloch County

We understand McCulloch County’s roads, its people, and its legal landscape. This local knowledge helps us:

Investigate accidents more effectively
Understand local traffic patterns
Work with local law enforcement and first responders
Build stronger cases that resonate with McCulloch County juries

Compassionate, Personalized Service

We treat our clients like family. As one client, Chad Harris, said:

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”

We understand that you’re going through one of the most difficult times in your life. We’re here to support you every step of the way, from the initial consultation through the resolution of your case.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis, 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 recovery, not your pocket

This arrangement ensures that everyone in McCulloch County has access to high-quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.

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

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in McCulloch County, what you do in the hours and days following the crash can make a huge difference in your case. Here are the steps you should take:

At the Scene

Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel okay, get checked out. Many injuries aren’t immediately apparent.
Document the Scene: If you’re able, take photos and videos of:
- All vehicles involved
- Damage to your vehicle (inside and out)
- The accident scene (road conditions, skid marks, debris)
- Your injuries
- Street signs and traffic signals
Get Information: Collect:
- The truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
- The trucking company’s name and contact information
- The truck’s license plate number
- The DOT number from the side of the truck
- Insurance information for all involved vehicles
- Contact information for any witnesses
Don’t Admit Fault: Even if you think you might be partially at fault, don’t say anything that could be interpreted as an admission of guilt.

After Leaving the Scene

Follow Up with Medical Care: Attend all follow-up appointments and follow your doctor’s orders.
Document Everything: Keep records of:
- All medical appointments
- Medications prescribed
- Time missed from work
- How your injuries affect your daily life
Don’t Talk to Insurance Adjusters: The trucking company’s insurance adjuster will call you. Do not give a recorded statement or sign anything without consulting an attorney.
Contact an Attorney: The sooner you contact an experienced trucking accident attorney, the better we can protect your rights and preserve evidence.

Why Time Is Critical

Evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. Critical data can be lost within days or weeks:

Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days
ELD data may be retained for only 6 months
Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days
Surveillance video from nearby businesses typically overwrites in 7-30 days
Physical evidence (the truck itself) may be repaired, sold, or scrapped
Witness memories fade over time

At Attorney911, we have a 48-hour evidence preservation protocol. When you call us, we immediately send spoliation letters to the trucking company and all potentially liable parties, demanding that they preserve all evidence related to the accident.

Common Questions About McCulloch County Trucking Accidents

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in McCulloch 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. McCulloch County hospitals and 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 in McCulloch County?

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 McCulloch 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 preservation 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 McCulloch 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. If you’re found to be 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs – the data tells the true story.

What is an owner-operator and does that affect my case?

An owner-operator is a driver who owns their own truck and contracts with trucking companies. This can complicate liability, but both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.

How do I find out if the trucking company has a bad safety record?

FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain the carrier’s:

CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
Inspection history and out-of-service rates
Crash history
Safety rating

A poor safety record can prove the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on the road.

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 but for trucks. This data can show:

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

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

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

How much insurance do trucking companies carry?

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:

$750,000 for non-hazardous freight
$1,000,000 for oil, large equipment
$5,000,000 for hazardous materials

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.

What if multiple insurance policies apply to my accident?

Trucking cases often involve multiple policies:

Motor carrier’s liability policy
Trailer interchange coverage
Cargo insurance
Owner-operator’s policy
Excess/umbrella coverage

We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.

Will the trucking company’s insurance try to settle quickly?

Often yes – and that’s a red flag. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

The Attorney911 Difference: Fighting for McCulloch County Families

When you choose Attorney911 for your McCulloch County trucking accident case, you’re getting more than just legal representation – you’re getting a team that will fight tirelessly for your rights and the compensation you deserve. Here’s what sets us apart:

Immediate Action

We don’t wait to start building your case. When you call us:

We immediately send preservation letters to protect critical evidence
We begin gathering records and data
We start investigating the accident scene
We contact witnesses while memories are fresh

Comprehensive Investigation

Trucking cases require thorough investigation. We:

Obtain and analyze black box and ELD data
Review the trucking company’s safety record
Examine the driver’s qualification file
Investigate maintenance records
Analyze dispatch logs and scheduling
Consult with accident reconstruction experts
Work with medical experts to document injuries

Aggressive Negotiation

We don’t accept lowball settlement offers. We:

Calculate the full value of your damages
Prepare every case as if it’s going to trial
Use our knowledge of insurance tactics to counter their strategies
Negotiate from a position of strength

Willingness to Go to Trial

Most cases settle, but we’re always prepared to take your case to trial if necessary. Insurance companies know we have:

The resources to litigate complex cases
The experience to present compelling arguments
The willingness to fight for maximum compensation

This preparation leads to better settlement offers.

Compassionate Client Service

We understand that you’re going through one of the most difficult times in your life. We:

Treat you like family, not just a case number
Keep you informed every step of the way
Answer your questions promptly
Provide support and guidance throughout the process

As one client, Chad Harris, said:

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”

Proven Results

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 trucking-related wrongful death cases

Local Knowledge

We understand McCulloch County’s roads, its people, and its legal landscape. This local knowledge helps us:

Investigate accidents more effectively
Understand local traffic patterns
Work with local law enforcement and first responders
Build stronger cases that resonate with McCulloch County juries

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis, 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 recovery, not your pocket

This arrangement ensures that everyone in McCulloch County has access to high-quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in McCulloch County, don’t wait. Every hour counts when it comes to preserving evidence and protecting your rights.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and start building your case.

Remember, the trucking company has lawyers working to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of representation. At Attorney911, we fight for McCulloch County families – and we don’t back down from the big trucking companies.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. Your fight is our fight.