18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Smith County, Texas

Every year, thousands of Texans are seriously injured in collisions with commercial trucks on our highways. If you or a loved one has been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident in Smith County, you need experienced legal representation to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. At Attorney911, we specialize in holding trucking companies accountable when their negligence causes catastrophic injuries.

Why Smith County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Smith County’s position along major transportation corridors makes it a hotspot for commercial truck traffic. Our local highways see heavy freight movement between Tyler, Longview, and beyond. When accidents happen here, they often involve:

• Fatigued drivers pushing beyond federal hours-of-service limits
• Improperly loaded cargo shifting during transit
• Poorly maintained vehicles with worn brakes or tires
• Distracted drivers using cell phones or dispatch devices
• Pressure from carriers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules

These factors create dangerous conditions that lead to life-altering injuries for Smith County residents.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Smith County

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Federal regulations limit commercial drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, with mandatory 30-minute breaks after 8 hours of driving. Despite these rules, fatigue remains a leading cause of trucking accidents in Smith County.

How we prove fatigue violations:

• Obtaining Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records that show actual driving hours
• Reviewing dispatch logs for evidence of schedule pressure
• Analyzing black box data for erratic driving patterns
• Checking for falsified log entries
• Investigating the driver’s sleep patterns and medical history

Improper Cargo Securement

When cargo isn’t properly secured, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable and increasing the risk of rollovers or jackknife accidents. Smith County’s distribution centers and warehouses generate significant cargo traffic, making proper loading procedures critical.

Common cargo securement violations:

• Insufficient number of tiedowns
• Improper weight distribution
• Failure to use blocking or bracing
• Overloaded trailers exceeding weight limits
• Damaged or worn securement equipment

Brake Failures and Poor Maintenance

Brake problems are a factor in nearly 30% of large truck crashes. Smith County’s varied terrain, from flat highways to rural roads, puts additional stress on braking systems.

Maintenance records we examine:

• Brake inspection and adjustment logs
• Tire replacement and rotation records
• Lighting and electrical system maintenance
• Steering component inspections
• Annual inspection reports

Distracted Driving

Despite federal prohibitions, many truck drivers continue to use cell phones while driving. In Smith County, we’ve seen cases where drivers were texting, using GPS devices, or even watching videos when accidents occurred.

Evidence of distraction we pursue:

• Cell phone records showing usage at time of crash
• Dashcam footage
• Witness statements
• Dispatch communications
• Social media activity

Speeding and Aggressive Driving

Smith County’s highways see heavy truck traffic, and some drivers exceed speed limits to meet tight delivery schedules. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases stopping distances, making accidents more likely and more severe.

How we prove speeding violations:

• Black box data showing vehicle speed
• Skid mark analysis
• Witness statements
• Traffic camera footage
• GPS tracking data

Catastrophic Injuries in Smith County Trucking Accidents

The massive size and weight of 18-wheelers—up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded—means accidents often result in catastrophic injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Even with modern safety features, trucking accidents frequently cause severe head trauma. The impact of an 80,000-pound truck can cause the brain to collide with the inside of the skull, resulting in:

• Concussions
• Contusions
• Diffuse axonal injuries
• Penetrating injuries
• Anoxic brain injury

Symptoms may include:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory problems and confusion
• Mood changes and irritability
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Difficulty concentrating
• Seizures

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

The force of a trucking collision can fracture vertebrae and damage the spinal cord, potentially resulting in:

• Paraplegia – Loss of function in the lower body
• Quadriplegia – Loss of function in all four limbs
• Incomplete injuries – Partial loss of sensation or movement
• Complete injuries – Total loss of function below the injury site

Smith County residents who suffer spinal cord injuries often face lifetime medical care costs exceeding $5 million.

Amputations

Severe crush injuries in trucking accidents may require surgical amputation of limbs. These life-altering injuries require:

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

Severe Burns

Fires and explosions are common in trucking accidents, especially when fuel tanks rupture or hazardous materials are involved. Burn injuries may require:

• Skin grafts
• Multiple reconstructive surgeries
• Long-term rehabilitation
• Pain management
• Psychological treatment for trauma

Internal Organ Damage

The blunt force trauma from a trucking collision can cause severe internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent:

• Liver lacerations
• Spleen ruptures
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusions
• Bowel perforations
• Internal bleeding

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents prove fatal, Smith County families may pursue wrongful death claims to recover:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses before death
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

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

Unlike typical car accidents, trucking collisions often involve multiple liable parties:

The Truck Driver

Drivers may be personally liable for:

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

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

Trucking companies are often the primary defendants because they have the deepest pockets and highest insurance limits. They may be liable for:

Vicarious Liability:

• The driver was an employee acting within the scope of employment

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent hiring – Failing to check the driver’s background or qualifications
• Negligent training – Inadequate safety training
• Negligent supervision – Failing to monitor driver performance
• Negligent maintenance – Poor vehicle upkeep
• Negligent scheduling – Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service regulations

Cargo Owners and Shippers

The company that owns the cargo may be liable if:

• They provided improper loading instructions
• Failed to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
• Required overweight loading
• Pressured the carrier to expedite delivery

Cargo Loading Companies

Third-party loading companies may be responsible for:

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

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for:

• Design defects in safety systems
• Manufacturing defects in components
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective brake, steering, or lighting systems

Parts Manufacturers

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

• Defective brake components
• Tires prone to blowouts
• Faulty steering mechanisms
• Defective lighting components

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers may be liable for:

• Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
• Failure 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 may be liable for:

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

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, government agencies may be liable for:

• Dangerous road design
• Failure to maintain roads
• Inadequate signage
• Failure to install safety barriers
• Improper work zone setup

Evidence Preservation is Critical in Smith County Trucking Cases

Evidence in trucking accident cases disappears quickly. The trucking company and their insurance carrier have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act immediately, critical evidence will be lost forever.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

At Attorney911, we implement a comprehensive evidence preservation protocol within 48 hours of being retained:

1. Send Spoliation Letters

   • Formal legal notices demanding preservation of all evidence
   • Sent to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties
   • Creates legal consequences for evidence destruction

2. Secure Electronic Data

   • Engine Control Module (ECM) data – Records speed, braking, throttle position
   • Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records – Proves hours of service compliance
   • GPS tracking data – Shows route, speed, and location history
   • Dashcam footage – Captures the accident and driver behavior
   • Cell phone records – Documents distracted driving

3. Preserve Physical Evidence

   • The truck and trailer (before repairs)
   • Failed or damaged components
   • Cargo and securement devices
   • Tire remnants (in blowout cases)

4. Gather Scene Evidence

   • Photograph the accident scene
   • Document skid marks and debris patterns
   • Obtain traffic camera footage
   • Secure surveillance video from nearby businesses

5. Interview Witnesses

   • Collect witness statements while memories are fresh
   • Obtain contact information for all witnesses
   • Document witness observations

Why This Data is Crucial

The electronic data we preserve can prove:

• The driver was speeding
• Brakes were applied too late
• The driver was fatigued
• The driver was distracted
• The truck was poorly maintained
• The cargo was improperly secured

This objective evidence often contradicts the driver’s claims and proves negligence.

How We Build Your Smith County Trucking Accident Case

Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)

• Accept your case and send preservation letters
• Deploy accident reconstruction experts if needed
• Obtain the police crash report
• Photograph your injuries with medical documentation
• Photograph all vehicles before repair
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

• Subpoena ECM/black box data downloads
• Request the driver’s paper log books
• Obtain the complete Driver Qualification File
• Request all truck maintenance and inspection records
• Obtain the carrier’s CSA safety scores
• Order the driver’s complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
• Subpoena the driver’s cell phone records
• Obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules
• Secure cargo loading documentation

Phase 3: Expert Analysis

• Accident reconstruction specialist creates crash analysis
• Medical experts establish causation and future care needs
• Vocational experts calculate lost earning capacity
• Economic experts determine present value of all damages
• Life care planners develop comprehensive care plans
• FMCSA regulation experts identify all violations

Phase 4: Litigation Strategy

• File lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires
• Pursue aggressive discovery against all liable parties
• Depose the truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, and maintenance personnel
• Build your case for trial while negotiating from a position of strength
• Prepare every case as if going to trial – this creates leverage in settlement negotiations

Smith County Trucking Accident Case Results

While every case is unique, our firm has secured significant recoveries for trucking accident victims:

“$5+ Million – Logging Brain Injury Settlement”
A Smith County worker suffered traumatic brain injury and vision loss when a falling log struck him at a logging operation. Our investigation revealed systematic safety violations that led to this substantial recovery.

“$3.8+ Million – Car Accident Amputation Settlement”
A client was injured in a collision, and during medical treatment, developed staph infections that required partial leg amputation. We proved the full chain of causation from accident through amputation.

“$2.5+ Million – Truck Crash Recovery”
A Smith County family received substantial compensation after a commercial truck collision caused severe injuries. Our investigation uncovered multiple FMCSA violations.

“Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases”
We have secured significant settlements for Smith County families who lost loved ones in fatal trucking accidents.

“$10M Lawsuit Filed – Hazing Litigation”
While not a trucking case, this demonstrates our ability to handle complex, high-stakes litigation against major institutions.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Smith County Trucking Case

1. Local Knowledge of Smith County

We understand Smith County’s trucking corridors, from the distribution centers along I-20 to the rural routes serving our agricultural communities. Our knowledge of local courts, judges, and juries gives us an advantage in building your case.

2. Proven Track Record Against Trucking Companies

We’ve successfully litigated against major commercial defendants:

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

3. Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

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

“Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years INSIDE the system. He watched adjusters minimize claims. He saw how they train their people to lowball victims. Now he exposes those tactics and uses his insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation.”

4. Federal Court Experience

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 may be filed in federal court.

5. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Since 1998, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against the largest trucking companies in America.

6. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation, so there’s no financial risk to you.

7. Bilingual Services

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

“At Attorney911, we understand that many trucking accident victims in Smith 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.”

8. Comprehensive Client Care

We treat our clients like family. Our team includes case managers and support staff who ensure you receive the personal attention you deserve. Clients consistently praise our communication and compassion:

“They treated me like FAMILY, not just another case number.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

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

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

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Smith County

If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Smith County, follow these steps:

1. Call 911 immediately – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek medical attention – Even if you feel okay, some injuries aren’t immediately apparent
3. Document the scene – Take photos of all vehicles, damage, road conditions, and your injuries
4. Get the trucking company information – Name, DOT number, driver’s contact information
5. Collect witness information – Names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the accident
6. Do NOT give recorded statements – Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you
7. Call Attorney911 immediately – Critical evidence disappears quickly

“Every hour you wait, evidence in your Smith 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.”

Smith County Trucking Corridors and Danger Zones

Smith County’s location makes it a critical transportation hub. Major trucking corridors include:

Interstate 20

• High-volume freight corridor connecting Dallas to Shreveport
• Heavy truck traffic serving Tyler and Longview
• Distribution centers and warehouses along the corridor
• Known for high-speed collisions and fatigue-related accidents

US Highway 271

• Major north-south route through Tyler
• Connects to I-20 and serves local distribution
• High accident rates at intersections

State Highway 155

• Connects Tyler to Palestine
• Rural two-lane highway with limited shoulders
• Accidents often involve agricultural equipment

State Highway 110

• Connects Tyler to Jacksonville
• Rural route with limited lighting
• Accidents frequently involve local delivery trucks

Danger Zones in Smith County:

• I-20 at State Highway 155 interchange – Complex traffic patterns with merging trucks
• US 271 through Tyler – Heavy urban truck traffic mixed with local vehicles
• State Highway 110 near Bullard – Rural two-lane highway with limited visibility
• Distribution centers along I-20 – High truck traffic in loading zones
• Agricultural areas during harvest season – Increased truck traffic and equipment on roads

Understanding Your Rights Under Texas Law

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means:

• You can recover compensation if you are 50% or less at fault for the accident
• Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover anything

For example:

• If you are 20% at fault, you recover 80% of your damages
• If you are 50% at fault, you recover 50% of your damages
• If you are 51% at fault, you recover nothing

This makes it critical to have an experienced Smith County trucking accident attorney who can thoroughly investigate your case and minimize your attributed fault.

The Statute of Limitations for Smith County Trucking Cases

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly, and your case becomes harder to prove as time passes.

For wrongful death claims, the statute of limitations is also 2 years from the date of death.

What Your Smith County Trucking Accident Case Might Be Worth

Case values depend on many factors, including:

• Severity of injuries – Catastrophic injuries command higher compensation
• 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
• Pain and suffering – Physical pain and emotional distress
• Degree of defendant’s negligence – Gross negligence may support punitive damages
• Insurance coverage available – Trucking companies carry higher limits than typical drivers

While every case is unique, Texas trucking accident settlements and verdicts have ranged from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions of dollars.

Frequently Asked Questions About Smith County Trucking Accidents

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Smith 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. Smith 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?

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?

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.

What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?

A spoliation letter is a legal notice demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. This includes ECM/black box data, ELD logs, maintenance records, driver files, and more. Sending this letter immediately puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Smith County?

Multiple parties may be liable in trucking accidents:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company/motor carrier
• The cargo owner or shipper
• The company that loaded the cargo
• Truck or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers
• The truck owner (if different from carrier)
• Government entities (for road defects)

We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?

Usually YES. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for:

• Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified drivers)
• Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
• Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
• Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)

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

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs – the data tells the true story.

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

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

What is a truck’s “black box” and how does it help my case?

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data – similar to an airplane’s black box. 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 Smith County 18-wheeler accidents?

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

• 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 Smith 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 Smith 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 Smith 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.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Smith County, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every hour. Our experienced trucking accident attorneys are ready to fight for you.

Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

Or visit our website: https://attorney911.com

“Every day you wait, your case gets harder to prove. Call today: 1-888-ATTY-911.”

“If you’ve been hurt in a trucking accident anywhere in Smith County, call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. Our Smith County trucking accident attorneys offer free consultations and work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.”

“This shouldn’t have happened to you. Let us fight for what you deserve. 1-888-ATTY-911.”

“Your family’s been through enough. Let us handle the trucking company. 1-888-ATTY-911.”

“When life changes in an instant, you need someone in your corner. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911.”

“Pain. Bills. Uncertainty. We can help with all of it. 1-888-ATTY-911.”

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

At Attorney911, we’re not just Texas attorneys – we’re Smith County attorneys. We know your roads, your courts, and how to fight for you. Call us today.