18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Throckmorton County, Texas

When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Your Life in an Instant

The moment you see the massive grill of an 18-wheeler looming in your rearview mirror, you know something is wrong. Before you can react, the impact comes. The sound of crumpling metal. The shattering of glass. The sudden, violent motion that throws you against your seatbelt. In that instant, everything changes.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Throckmorton County, Texas, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. The physical pain is just the beginning. The medical bills start piling up. Your car may be totaled. You might be unable to work. And through it all, the trucking company’s insurance adjuster is calling, asking questions, offering quick settlements that seem too good to be true.

Here’s what you need to know right now: You’re not just fighting another driver. You’re fighting a trucking company with teams of lawyers, rapid-response investigators, and millions of dollars in insurance coverage. Their goal is simple – to pay you as little as possible. Our goal is just as simple – to make sure you get every dollar you deserve.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. We know Throckmorton County’s highways, we understand the trucking industry’s tactics, and we have the resources to take on the biggest trucking companies in America.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We answer 24/7, and we’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence before it disappears.

Why Throckmorton County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Throckmorton County’s unique geography and transportation corridors create specific risks for trucking accidents. Our rural highways see a mix of local agricultural traffic and long-haul freight moving through the region. The combination of high-speed truck traffic, rural road conditions, and limited emergency services creates a dangerous environment for passenger vehicles.

Throckmorton County’s Trucking Corridors

The highways serving Throckmorton County carry significant commercial traffic:

• US Highway 183/283: This north-south corridor connects Throckmorton County to major markets in Texas and Oklahoma. Trucks hauling agricultural products, oilfield equipment, and general freight use this route, creating risks at intersections and during passing maneuvers.

• State Highway 79: Running east-west through the county, this highway sees truck traffic from local ranches, agricultural operations, and regional distribution centers.

• Farm-to-Market Roads: These rural roads are designed for local traffic but often accommodate oversized agricultural equipment and loaded grain trucks. The mix of large trucks and passenger vehicles on narrow, two-lane roads creates significant accident risks.

Throckmorton County’s rural nature means that many trucking accidents occur far from emergency services. Response times can be longer, and accident scenes may not be properly documented without immediate legal intervention.

The Physics of 18-Wheeler Accidents: Why They’re So Catastrophic

When an 18-wheeler weighing up to 80,000 pounds collides with a passenger vehicle, the physics are devastating:

• Weight Disparity: A fully loaded 18-wheeler is 20-25 times heavier than the average passenger car. This means the truck carries 20-25 times more kinetic energy in a collision.

• Stopping Distance: At 65 mph, an 18-wheeler needs approximately 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields. A passenger car needs only about 300 feet. This 40% difference in stopping distance means trucks cannot avoid obstacles as quickly as cars.

• Height and Underride Risk: The height of a trailer creates a deadly hazard. In rear-end and side collisions, passenger vehicles can slide underneath the trailer, shearing off the roof and causing catastrophic injuries to occupants.

• Cargo Risks: Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, causing rollovers. Spilled cargo creates hazards for other vehicles, and hazardous materials create additional dangers.

Common Types of Trucking Accidents in Throckmorton County

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer and cab skid in opposite directions, folding at an angle like a pocket knife. These accidents are particularly dangerous on Throckmorton County’s rural highways where trucks may be traveling at higher speeds.

Common Causes in Throckmorton County:

• Sudden braking on wet or gravel roads common in rural areas
• Speeding on curves and hills
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers more prone to swing
• Brake failures from poor maintenance
• Driver inexperience with emergency maneuvers

Jackknife accidents often block multiple lanes of traffic and can cause multi-vehicle pileups, especially on two-lane highways where passing opportunities are limited.

Rollover Accidents

Rollover accidents are among the most catastrophic trucking accidents, often resulting in the truck landing on top of other vehicles.

Common Causes in Throckmorton County:

• Speeding on rural roads with sharp curves
• Taking turns too sharply at excessive speed
• Improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo
• Liquid cargo “slosh” shifting center of gravity
• Overcorrection after tire blowouts or lane departures
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reactions

Throckmorton County’s agricultural trucking creates additional rollover risks. Grain trucks and livestock trailers can experience sudden shifts in weight distribution, making them more susceptible to rollovers.

Underride Collisions

Underride collisions are among the deadliest types of trucking accidents. They occur when a passenger vehicle crashes into the rear or side of a trailer and slides underneath.

Types of Underride Accidents:

• Rear Underride: Vehicle strikes the back of a trailer, often at intersections or during sudden stops
• Side Underride: Vehicle impacts the side of a trailer during lane changes, turns, or at intersections

Why They’re So Deadly:

• The trailer’s height often causes the passenger compartment to be sheared off
• Occupants suffer catastrophic head and neck injuries
• Airbags may not deploy properly due to the unusual impact angle

Federal law requires rear impact guards on trailers manufactured after January 26, 1998, but there is no federal requirement for side underride guards – despite their proven effectiveness in saving lives.

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions involving 18-wheelers are particularly devastating due to the massive weight disparity.

Common Causes in Throckmorton County:

• Following too closely on rural highways
• Driver distraction (cell phones, dispatch communications)
• Driver fatigue and delayed reaction times
• Excessive speed for traffic conditions
• Brake failures from poor maintenance
• Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns

At highway speeds, a rear-end collision with an 18-wheeler can crush a passenger vehicle, causing catastrophic injuries to occupants.

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Wide turn accidents, also known as “squeeze play” accidents, occur when a truck swings wide before making a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing the vehicle that entered the gap.

Why Trucks Make Wide Turns:

• The trailer tracks inside the path of the cab
• Drivers must swing wide to avoid curbs, signs, or buildings
• Rural intersections often have limited space for maneuvering

These accidents are particularly dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists in Throckmorton County’s small towns and rural areas.

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone” Accidents)

18-wheelers have four massive blind spots where the driver cannot see other vehicles:

1. Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
2. Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
3. Left Side No-Zone: Extends from the cab door backward
4. Right Side No-Zone: Extends from the cab door backward and is much larger than the left side – the most dangerous blind spot

Common Causes in Throckmorton County:

• Failure to check mirrors before lane changes
• Improperly adjusted or damaged mirrors
• Inadequate mirror checking during sustained maneuvers
• Driver distraction during lane changes
• Failure to use turn signals

On Throckmorton County’s rural highways, trucks may make sudden lane changes to pass slower vehicles or prepare for turns, increasing the risk of blind spot accidents.

Tire Blowout Accidents

Tire blowouts are a significant hazard in Throckmorton County, where long stretches of highway and temperature variations put additional stress on truck tires.

Common Causes of Tire Blowouts:

• Underinflated tires causing overheating
• Overloaded vehicles exceeding tire capacity
• Worn or aging tires not replaced
• Road debris punctures
• Manufacturing defects
• Improper tire matching on dual wheels
• Heat buildup on long hauls

Why They’re Dangerous:

• Steer tire (front) blowouts can cause immediate loss of control
• Debris from blown tires can strike other vehicles
• Sudden blowouts can cause the driver to lose control
• Resulting accidents often involve jackknifing or rollovers

Throckmorton County’s rural roads may have more debris and less frequent tire inspections, increasing the risk of blowouts.

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. In Throckmorton County’s hilly terrain, brake failures can be particularly catastrophic.

Common Causes of Brake Failures:

• Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
• Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
• Air brake system leaks or failures
• Overheated brakes (brake fade) on long descents
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Defective brake components
• Failure to conduct pre-trip brake inspections
• Deferred maintenance to save costs

Throckmorton County’s topography includes rolling hills and occasional steep grades, putting additional stress on truck braking systems.

Cargo Spill and Shift Accidents

Cargo-related accidents are a significant risk in Throckmorton County’s agricultural and industrial trucking.

Types of Cargo Accidents:

• Cargo Shift: Load moves during transit, destabilizing the truck
• Cargo Spill: Load falls from the truck onto the roadway
• Hazmat Spill: Hazardous materials leak or spill, creating additional dangers

Common Causes:

• Inadequate tiedowns (insufficient number or strength)
• Improper loading distribution
• Failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats
• Tiedown failure due to wear or damage
• Overloading beyond securement capacity
• Failure to re-inspect cargo during trip
• Loose tarps allowing cargo shift

Throckmorton County’s agricultural trucking creates unique cargo risks. Grain trucks, livestock trailers, and hay bales all present specific securement challenges.

Who Is Liable for Your Throckmorton County Trucking Accident?

In most car accidents, liability is straightforward – one driver is typically at fault. In trucking accidents, multiple parties may share responsibility for your injuries. At Attorney911, we investigate every potentially liable party to maximize your recovery.

The Truck Driver

The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable for their negligent conduct.

Common Driver Violations:

• 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
• Failure to yield, improper lane changes, running red lights

The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets (highest insurance) and the most responsibility for safety.

Bases for Trucking Company Liability:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

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

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent Hiring: Failed to check the driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
• Negligent Training: Inadequate training on safety, cargo securement, hours of service
• Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance, ELD compliance
• Negligent Maintenance: Failed to maintain vehicles in safe condition
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations

The Cargo Owner / Shipper

The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable.

Bases for Shipper Liability:

• Provided improper loading instructions
• Failed to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
• Required overweight loading
• Pressured carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
• Misrepresented cargo weight or characteristics

The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo onto trucks may be liable for improper securement.

Bases for Loading Company Liability:

• Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, tiedowns
• Not training loaders on securement requirements

The Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

The company that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for defects.

Bases for Manufacturer Liability:

• Design defects (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement)
• Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

The Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for defective products.

Bases for Parts Liability:

• Defective brakes or brake components
• Defective tires causing blowouts
• Defective steering mechanisms
• Defective lighting components
• Defective coupling devices

The Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets may be liable for negligent repairs.

Bases for Maintenance Company Liability:

• Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
• Failure to identify critical safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard or wrong parts
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

The Freight Broker

Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for negligent carrier selection.

Bases for Broker Liability:

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

The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

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

Bases for Owner Liability:

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

Government Entities

Federal, state, or local government may be liable in limited circumstances.

Bases for Government Liability:

• 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

Special Considerations in Texas:

• Sovereign immunity limits government liability
• Strict notice requirements and short deadlines
• Must prove actual notice of dangerous condition in many cases

The Critical Evidence in Your Throckmorton County Trucking Case

Evidence in trucking accident cases 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 will be lost forever.

Electronic Data – The Truck’s “Black Box”

Commercial trucks have electronic systems that continuously record operational data – similar to an airplane’s black box but for trucks.

Types of Electronic Recording:

Critical Data Points:

• Speed Before Crash: Proves speeding or excessive speed for conditions
• Brake Application: Shows when and how hard brakes were applied
• Throttle Position: Reveals if the driver was accelerating or coasting
• Following Distance: Calculated from speed and deceleration data
• Hours of Service: Proves fatigue and HOS violations
• GPS Location: Confirms route and timing
• Fault Codes: May reveal known mechanical issues the driver ignored

Why This Data Wins Cases:
ECM/ELD data is objective and tamper-resistant. It directly contradicts driver claims of “I wasn’t speeding” or “I hit my brakes immediately.” This data has led to multi-million dollar verdicts in trucking cases.

Driver Qualification File

Federal regulations require trucking companies to maintain a Driver Qualification (DQ) File for every driver containing:

• Employment application
• Motor Vehicle Record
• Road test certificate
• Medical examiner’s certificate
• Annual driving record review
• Previous employer inquiries
• Drug and alcohol test records

Why It Matters:
If the trucking company failed to maintain a proper DQ file, failed to check the driver’s background, or hired a driver with a poor safety record, they can be held liable for negligent hiring.

Hours of Service Records

ELD data and hours of service records prove whether the driver violated federal rest requirements. Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents.

Maintenance and Inspection Records

Trucking companies must maintain records showing:

• Systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance
• Driver vehicle inspection reports (pre-trip and post-trip)
• Annual inspection records
• Maintenance and repair records

Why It Matters:
Brake failures cause 29% of truck accidents. If the trucking company failed to maintain proper records or deferred maintenance, they are liable for negligence.

Drug and Alcohol Test Results

Federal regulations require:

• Pre-employment drug testing
• Random drug and alcohol testing
• Post-accident testing
• Reasonable suspicion testing

Why It Matters:
If the driver was impaired at the time of the accident, both the driver and trucking company may be liable.

Cell Phone Records

Cell phone records can prove distracted driving. Federal regulations prohibit:

• Using hand-held mobile phones while driving
• Reaching for a mobile phone in a manner requiring leaving the seated position
• Texting while driving

Witness Statements

Witnesses can provide critical information about:

• How the accident occurred
• The truck’s speed and behavior before the crash
• Whether the truck’s lights were functioning
• Whether the driver appeared fatigued or distracted

Accident Scene Evidence

Photographs and measurements of:

• Skid marks
• Vehicle positions
• Road conditions
• Traffic signals and signs
• Weather conditions

Medical Records

Medical records document:

• The extent of your injuries
• Treatment received
• Prognosis for recovery
• Link between injuries and the accident

How We Prove Negligence in Your Throckmorton County Trucking Case

To win your case, we must prove that the trucking company or driver was negligent. This requires demonstrating four elements:

1. Duty of Care: The trucking company and driver had a legal duty to operate safely
2. Breach of Duty: They failed to meet that duty through action or inaction
3. Causation: Their breach caused your injuries
4. Damages: You suffered actual harm

Common Negligence Claims in Trucking Cases

Hours of Service Violations

Federal regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate to prevent fatigue:

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

False Log Entries

Before ELDs, drivers kept paper logs that were easily falsified. Even with ELDs, some drivers find ways to manipulate their hours.

Common Falsification Methods:

• Claiming off-duty time while actually driving
• Logging multiple short breaks instead of required 30-minute break
• “Editing” ELD records after the fact
• Using multiple ELDs or “ghost” drivers

How We Prove It:

• Comparing ELD data with GPS records
• Analyzing fuel receipts and toll records
• Reviewing dispatch communications
• Checking for inconsistencies in the data

Brake System Deficiencies

Brake problems are among the most common FMCSA out-of-service violations.

Common Brake Issues:

• Worn brake pads or shoes
• Improper brake adjustment
• Air brake system leaks
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Defective brake components

How We Prove It:

• Post-accident brake inspection
• Maintenance records showing deferred repairs
• Driver inspection reports noting brake issues
• ECM data showing brake performance

Cargo Securement Failures

Federal regulations specify how cargo must be secured to prevent shifting or spilling.

Common Securement Violations:

• Inadequate number of tiedowns
• Insufficient working load limits
• Improper load distribution
• Failure to use blocking or bracing
• Loose or damaged tarps

How We Prove It:

• Post-accident cargo inspection
• Loading company records
• Driver training on securement
• Comparison with FMCSA securement standards

Negligent Hiring, Training, and Supervision

Trucking companies can be held liable for hiring unqualified drivers, providing inadequate training, or failing to supervise driver performance.

Negligent Hiring:

• Hiring drivers with poor safety records
• Failing to conduct background checks
• Ignoring previous accidents or violations

Negligent Training:

• Inadequate safety training
• No training on cargo securement
• No training on hours of service compliance

Negligent Supervision:

• Failing to monitor driver performance
• Ignoring hours of service violations
• Failing to address safety complaints

How We Prove It:

• Driver Qualification File
• Training records
• Supervision policies
• Previous accident history
• CSA scores and inspection records

The Catastrophic Injuries from Throckmorton County Trucking Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. At Attorney911, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact these injuries have on victims and their families.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In trucking accidents, the extreme forces cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull.

Severity Levels:

Common Symptoms:

• Headaches, dizziness, nausea
• Memory loss, 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

Lifetime Care Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity

Spinal Cord Injury

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

Types of Paralysis:

Level of Injury Matters:

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

Lifetime Care Costs:

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

These figures represent direct medical costs only – not lost wages, pain and suffering, or loss of quality of life.

Amputation

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

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

Common in Trucking Accidents Due To:

• Crushing forces from truck impact
• Entrapment requiring amputation for extraction
• Severe burns requiring surgical removal
• Infections from open wounds

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 occur in trucking accidents from fuel tank ruptures, hazmat cargo spills, electrical fires, or friction burns.

Burn Classification:

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.

Common Internal Injuries:

• Liver laceration or rupture
• Spleen damage requiring removal
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusion or collapse (pneumothorax)
• 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

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can bring a wrongful death claim.

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas:

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

Types of Claims:

• Wrongful Death Action: Compensation for survivors’ losses
• Survival Action: Compensation for decedent’s pain/suffering before death

Damages Available Under Texas Law:

• Lost future income and employment benefits
• Loss of consortium (spousal companionship and relationship)
• Loss of parental guidance and nurturing (for surviving children)
• Mental anguish and emotional distress (for surviving family)
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred prior to death
• Pain and suffering experienced by decedent before death
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence, recklessness, or malice)

Texas Statute of Limitations: 2 years from date of death to file wrongful death lawsuit

The Insurance Battle: How Trucking Companies Try to Deny Your Claim

Trucking companies and their insurers have one goal: to pay you as little as possible. They have teams of adjusters, investigators, and lawyers working to minimize your claim. At Attorney911, we know their tactics because our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who used to work for them.

Common Insurance Tactics and How We Counter Them

The “Independent” Medical Examination (IME) Trap

Insurance companies will send you to a doctor of their choosing for an “independent” medical examination. These doctors are anything but independent – they’re paid by the insurance company to minimize your injuries.

What to Expect:

• A brief examination (often 15-30 minutes)
• Questions designed to make you seem uninjured
• Minimal testing or imaging
• A report that downplays your injuries

How We Protect You:

• We prepare you for what to expect
• We send a representative to observe the exam
• We obtain the examiner’s previous reports to identify bias
• We counter with reports from your treating physicians
• We expose the examiner’s financial relationship with the insurance company

What Your Throckmorton County Trucking Accident Case Is Worth

The value of your case depends on many factors, including the severity of your injuries, the degree of the trucking company’s negligence, and the available insurance coverage.

Types of Damages Available

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):

• Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
• Lost wages (past and future)
• Loss of earning capacity
• Property damage
• Out-of-pocket expenses
• Life care costs

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life):

• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement
• Loss of consortium (impact on marriage/family relationships)
• Physical impairment

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence):
Available when the trucking company acted with:

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

Factors That Affect Case Value

1. Severity of Injuries: More severe injuries = higher case value
2. Medical Expenses: Higher medical costs = higher case value
3. Lost Income: More lost wages = higher case value
4. Permanent Impairment: Permanent disabilities = higher case value
5. Degree of Negligence: More egregious conduct = higher case value (especially for punitive damages)
6. Insurance Coverage: More coverage = higher potential recovery
7. Jurisdiction: Some venues are more favorable to plaintiffs
8. Quality of Legal Representation: Experienced attorneys recover more

Documented Trucking Accident Settlements and Verdicts

While every case is unique, these documented verdicts and settlements demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

• $730 Million – Texas (2021) – Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger: Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman; $480M compensatory + $250M punitive
• $462 Million – Missouri (2024) – Underride decapitation case
• $160 Million – Alabama (2024) – Rollover left driver quadriplegic
• $150 Million – Texas (2022) – Werner Enterprises: Two children killed on I-30
• $141.5 Million – Florida (2023) – Defunct carrier case
• $90 Million – Texas – Truck driver burned in explosion
• $37.5 Million – Texas – Trucking verdict
• $35.5 Million – Texas – Family injured in truck accident
• $35 Million – Fort Worth, Texas (2025) – Largest in Tarrant County

Attorney911’s Documented Results:

• $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

The Legal Process: What to Expect in Your Throckmorton County Trucking Case

Step 1: Free Consultation

We offer free, no-obligation consultations to evaluate your case. During this consultation, we’ll:

• Listen to your story
• Review any evidence you’ve gathered
• Explain your legal rights
• Answer your questions
• Discuss our fee structure (you pay nothing unless we win)

Step 2: Case Acceptance

If we believe we can help you, we’ll:

• Send you a representation agreement
• Begin working on your case immediately
• Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence

Step 3: Investigation

Our investigation includes:

• Obtaining the police report
• Preserving electronic data (ECM, ELD, GPS)
• Subpoenaing trucking company records
• Interviewing witnesses
• Consulting with accident reconstruction experts
• Documenting your injuries and treatment

Step 4: Medical Care Facilitation

We’ll help you:

• Get the medical treatment you need
• Understand your treatment options
• Document your injuries thoroughly
• Connect with specialists if needed

Step 5: Demand Letter

We’ll prepare a comprehensive demand letter to the insurance company that includes:

• A detailed description of how the accident occurred
• An explanation of the trucking company’s negligence
• A complete accounting of your damages
• A demand for settlement

Step 6: Negotiation

We’ll negotiate aggressively with the insurance company. Our goal is to reach a fair settlement without going to trial.

Step 7: Litigation (If Needed)

If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we’ll:

• File a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires
• Conduct discovery (interrogatories, requests for production, depositions)
• Prepare your case for trial
• Continue negotiating from a position of strength

Step 8: Trial or Settlement

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready if the case goes to court.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Throckmorton County Trucking Case

25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He has:

• Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts
• Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Experience in BP explosion litigation against multinational corporations
• A track record of taking on the biggest trucking companies in America

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. He spent years on the other side – now he’s on YOUR side.

Proven Track Record of Results

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

• $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

Deep Understanding of FMCSA Regulations

We have comprehensive knowledge of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399). We know how to prove violations and use them to establish negligence.

Aggressive Litigation Approach

We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.

Compassionate Client Service

We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a trucking accident takes on victims and their families. We treat every client like family, not just a case number.

Local Knowledge of Throckmorton County

We know Throckmorton County’s highways, courts, and communities. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.

24/7 Availability

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and address your concerns.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us.

What to Do Right Now If You’ve Been in a Throckmorton County Trucking Accident

Every minute counts after a trucking accident. Evidence disappears quickly, and the trucking company’s team is already working to protect their interests. Here’s what you need to do right now:

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel okay, get checked out
3. Document the Scene – Take photos and videos of:
   • All vehicles involved
   • Vehicle damage (inside and out)
   • The accident scene (skid marks, road conditions, traffic signs)
   • Your injuries
   • Witnesses
4. Get Information – Collect:
   • Truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
   • Trucking company name and DOT number
   • Insurance information
   • Witness names and contact information
5. Don’t Give Statements – Do not give recorded statements to any insurance company
6. Call Attorney911 – 1-888-ATTY-911 – We’ll send a preservation letter immediately to protect your evidence

Frequently Asked Questions About Throckmorton County Trucking Accidents

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Throckmorton 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. Throckmorton County hospitals and clinics can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney in Throckmorton 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.

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 Throckmorton 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 less than 50% at fault, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened.

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.

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