18-Wheeler Accidents in Lexington, Texas: Your Guide to Justice and Compensation

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident on Lexington’s roads, you’re likely facing overwhelming challenges. The physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burden can feel insurmountable. At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through, and we’re here to help. Our team of experienced trucking accident attorneys has been fighting for victims like you across Texas for over 25 years, and we’re ready to put that experience to work for your Lexington case.

Why Lexington’s Trucking Corridors Are Particularly Dangerous

Lexington sits at a critical juncture in Lee County, where several major transportation routes converge. This strategic location makes our community a hub for commercial traffic, but it also creates unique risks for local drivers:

• US Highway 77 runs through the heart of Lexington, serving as a vital north-south corridor connecting Victoria to Waco. This highway sees heavy truck traffic carrying agricultural products, oilfield equipment, and consumer goods.
• State Highway 21 intersects with US 77 in Lexington, creating a busy junction where local traffic mixes with through traffic from Bastrop to Bryan-College Station.
• Farm-to-Market Roads like FM 696 and FM 1624 connect Lexington to surrounding agricultural areas, bringing farm equipment and livestock trailers onto our roads.
• Proximity to Major Highways means that Lexington drivers share the road with trucks traveling between I-10 (40 miles south) and I-35 (60 miles west), two of Texas’s busiest freight corridors.

The combination of these routes creates a complex traffic environment where local drivers must navigate alongside large commercial vehicles. When accidents happen on Lexington’s roads, the results are often catastrophic due to the size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Lexington

Our experience handling trucking cases in Lexington and throughout Texas has revealed several recurring causes of accidents:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Truck drivers in Lexington often face pressure to meet tight delivery deadlines. Many drivers violate federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations, which limit driving time to prevent fatigue. The FMCSA rules state:

• Drivers cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• Drivers cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• A 30-minute break is required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• Weekly limits of 60/70 hours in 7/8 days apply

When drivers exceed these limits, their reaction times slow, judgment becomes impaired, and the risk of accidents increases dramatically. We’ve seen cases where drivers falsified their logbooks to hide HOS violations, putting everyone on Lexington’s roads at risk.

Improper Loading and Cargo Securement

Lexington’s agricultural and manufacturing industries generate significant truck traffic carrying specialized cargo. When loads aren’t properly secured according to FMCSA regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136), the results can be deadly:

• Shifting loads can cause rollovers on Lexington’s curves
• Overweight trucks take longer to stop and are more prone to brake failures
• Improperly secured equipment can fall onto the roadway
• Liquid cargo slosh can destabilize tanker trucks

We’ve handled cases where improperly secured farm equipment came loose on FM 696, causing multi-vehicle accidents.

Brake Failures and Maintenance Neglect

Brake systems on 18-wheelers require regular maintenance and adjustment. When trucking companies cut corners on maintenance to save money, the consequences can be devastating. Common brake issues we see in Lexington cases include:

• Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
• Improper brake adjustments (too loose)
• Air brake system leaks or failures
• Overheated brakes on long descents
• Contaminated brake fluid

FMCSA requires systematic inspection and maintenance of all commercial vehicles (49 CFR § 396.3). When companies fail to comply, they can be held liable for resulting accidents.

Distracted and Impaired Driving

Despite strict regulations, distracted and impaired driving remains a significant problem among commercial drivers:

• Cell phone use (49 CFR § 392.82 prohibits hand-held phones)
• Dispatch communications that divert attention
• Fatigue-related impairment (equivalent to alcohol impairment)
• Drug use (both illegal and prescription medications)
• Alcohol use (49 CFR § 392.5 prohibits any alcohol use while on duty)

We’ve seen cases where drivers were texting while navigating Lexington’s busy intersections, with tragic results.

Speeding and Inadequate Training

Many trucking companies fail to properly train their drivers on safe operation techniques for different road conditions. This is particularly dangerous in Lexington, where drivers must navigate:

• The busy US 77/SH 21 intersection
• Rural farm roads with limited shoulders
• Variable speed limits through town
• Changing weather conditions

Speeding is especially dangerous for large trucks because they require significantly more distance to stop than passenger vehicles. A fully loaded truck traveling at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields.

The Devastating Injuries We See in Lexington Trucking Accidents

Due to the massive size and weight of 18-wheelers (up to 80,000 pounds), accidents often result in catastrophic injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

TBI occurs when the brain is violently shaken or struck against the skull. In trucking accidents, this often happens when:

• A vehicle is crushed by the truck’s weight
• Occupants strike their heads on windows or dashboards
• The force of impact causes the brain to move within the skull

TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe, life-altering brain damage. Symptoms may include:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory loss and confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes and emotional instability
• Sleep disturbances
• Speech difficulties
• Personality changes

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

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Spinal cord injuries are among the most devastating consequences of trucking accidents. The force of impact can fracture vertebrae, sever the spinal cord, or cause compression injuries. Depending on the location and severity of the injury, victims may experience:

• Paraplegia (loss of function below the waist)
• Quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs)
• Incomplete injuries (some nerve function remains)
• Complete injuries (total loss of sensation and movement below the injury)

The level of injury determines the extent of paralysis:

• C1-C4 injuries may require a ventilator for breathing
• C5-C8 injuries affect arm and hand function
• Thoracic injuries affect the trunk and legs
• Lumbar injuries affect the hips and legs

The lifetime cost of caring for a spinal cord injury can range from $1.1 million to $5 million.

Amputations

Amputations can occur at the accident scene due to crushing injuries or may be necessary later due to severe tissue damage. Common amputations in trucking accidents include:

• Leg amputations from underride collisions
• Arm amputations from being trapped in wreckage
• Finger amputations from airbag deployments

Amputations require extensive medical treatment, including:

• Initial surgery and hospitalization
• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000 each)
• Replacement prosthetics throughout life
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Occupational therapy for daily living skills
• Psychological counseling

Severe Burns

Burn injuries occur in trucking accidents when:

• Fuel tanks rupture and ignite
• Hazardous materials spill and catch fire
• Electrical systems short circuit
• Friction creates road rash burns

Burns are classified by severity:

• First-degree burns affect only the outer layer of skin
• Second-degree burns affect both outer and underlying skin layers
• Third-degree burns destroy all skin layers and may damage underlying tissue
• Fourth-degree burns extend to muscle and bone

Severe burns require extensive treatment, including:

• Skin grafts and reconstructive surgery
• Multiple hospitalizations
• Physical therapy
• Pain management
• Psychological support

Internal Organ Damage

The force of a trucking accident can cause internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Common internal injuries include:

• Liver lacerations or ruptures
• Spleen damage requiring removal
• Kidney injuries
• Lung contusions or punctures (pneumothorax)
• Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
• Bowel and intestinal damage

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

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident claims a life, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. Under Texas law, certain family members can recover damages including:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship and relationship)
• Loss of parental guidance for surviving children
• Mental anguish and emotional distress
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred before death
• Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death

Who Can Be Held Liable in Your Lexington Trucking Accident?

One of the most important aspects of trucking accident cases is identifying ALL potentially liable parties. Unlike car accidents where usually only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple responsible parties:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

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

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

The trucking company can be held liable through:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

• The driver was an employee (not an independent contractor)
• The driver was acting within the scope of employment
• The accident occurred while performing job duties

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent Hiring: Failing to properly vet drivers (background checks, driving records)
• Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
• Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance and compliance
• Negligent Maintenance: Failing to maintain vehicles in safe condition
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate HOS regulations

The Cargo Owner or Shipper

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

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
• Requiring overweight loading
• Pressuring the carrier to expedite delivery beyond safe limits
• Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics

The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement (violating 49 CFR § 393.100-136)
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
• Not training loaders on securement requirements

The Truck or Trailer Manufacturer

Manufacturers may be liable for:

• 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)

Parts Manufacturers

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

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

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets 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 but don’t own trucks 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

The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

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

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

Government Entities

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

Special Considerations for Government Liability:

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

The Critical Evidence We Preserve in Lexington Trucking Cases

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 That Must Be Preserved Immediately

Engine Control Module (ECM) / Black Box Data:
Commercial trucks have electronic systems that continuously record operational data. This data can show:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing and force
• Throttle position (was the driver accelerating or coasting?)
• Engine RPM
• Whether cruise control was engaged
• Fault codes that may reveal known mechanical issues

ECM data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days or with new driving events. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this crucial evidence.

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Data:
ELDs are federally mandated devices that record:

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

ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention, but once we notify them of litigation, they must preserve everything.

GPS and Telematics Data:
Many trucks are equipped with real-time tracking systems that record:

• GPS location history
• Speed throughout the trip
• Driver behavior (hard braking, rapid acceleration)
• Route information

This data can show whether the driver was following the assigned route or making unauthorized detours.

Cell Phone Records:
Cell phone records can prove distracted driving by showing:

• Text messages sent or received
• Phone calls made or received
• Data usage (streaming, social media)
• Location data

We subpoena these records to establish whether the driver was using a phone at the time of the accident.

Dashcam Footage:
Many commercial trucks have dashcams that record:

• Video of the road ahead
• Some record the cab interior
• Audio of driver communications

This footage is often overwritten within 7-14 days unless preserved.

Driver and Company Records We Pursue

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

• Employment application and resume
• Background check and driving record
• Previous employer verification (3-year driving history)
• Medical certification and exam records
• Drug and alcohol test results (pre-employment and random)
• Training records and certifications
• Previous accident and violation history
• Performance reviews and disciplinary records

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

Hours of Service Records:
We obtain ELD data and any backup paper logs to identify:

• HOS violations (driving too long without breaks)
• False log entries
• Pattern of violations showing company culture

Maintenance and Inspection Records:
We subpoena:

• Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
• Annual inspection records
• Maintenance work orders
• Repair records
• Parts replacement history
• Brake adjustment records

These records show whether the company properly maintained the vehicle.

Dispatch and Trip Records:
We obtain:

• Dispatch logs showing assigned routes and schedules
• Trip records showing actual routes taken
• Communications between driver and dispatcher
• Delivery schedules and deadlines

This evidence can show whether the company pressured the driver to violate HOS regulations to meet deadlines.

Drug and Alcohol Test Results:
We review:

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

Positive tests or refusal to test can prove impairment.

Safety and Compliance Records:
We obtain:

• Carrier’s CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
• Inspection history and out-of-service rates
• Crash history
• Safety rating
• Previous violations and enforcement actions

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

Physical Evidence We Preserve

The Truck and Trailer:
We ensure the vehicle is preserved for inspection by our experts. This includes:

• The tractor (cab)
• The trailer
• All components (brakes, tires, steering, etc.)

Failed or Damaged Components:
We preserve any parts that failed or were damaged in the accident, including:

• Tires (especially if blowout occurred)
• Brake components
• Steering components
• Coupling devices
• Underride guards

These components will be analyzed by experts to determine if defects contributed to the accident.

Cargo and Securement Devices:
We preserve:

• The cargo itself
• Tiedowns, straps, chains, and binders
• Blocking and bracing materials
• Tarps and covers

This evidence shows whether the load was properly secured according to FMCSA regulations.

Scene Evidence We Document

Photographs and Video:
We document:

• Vehicle damage (all vehicles involved)
• Accident scene (skid marks, debris, road conditions)
• Traffic signals and signage
• Weather conditions
• Injuries

Witness Statements:
We obtain statements from:

• Eyewitnesses to the accident
• First responders
• Other drivers
• Business owners with surveillance cameras

Accident Reconstruction:
We work with expert engineers to:

• Analyze skid marks and debris patterns
• Reconstruct the sequence of events
• Determine speeds and impact forces
• Identify contributing factors

The Legal Process for Your Lexington Trucking Accident Case

Step 1: Immediate Action (First 48 Hours)

Send Spoliation Letters:
We send formal legal notices to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence. This includes:

• ECM/Black Box data
• ELD records
• Maintenance records
• Driver files
• Dashcam footage
• GPS data
• Cell phone records

Deploy Accident Reconstruction Expert:
If necessary, we send an expert to the accident scene to:

• Document skid marks and debris patterns
• Photograph the scene before changes occur
• Measure roadway geometry
• Collect physical evidence

Obtain Police Report:
We obtain the official accident report, which documents:

• The officer’s determination of fault
• Citations issued
• Witness statements
• Diagram of the accident scene

Step 2: Investigation (First 30 Days)

Subpoena Electronic Data:
We formally request:

• ECM/Black Box data downloads
• ELD records
• GPS and telematics data
• Cell phone records

Obtain Driver Qualification File:
We subpoena the complete DQ file to identify:

• Hiring negligence
• Training deficiencies
• Previous accident history
• Medical issues
• Drug test history

Secure Maintenance Records:
We obtain:

• Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
• Annual inspection records
• Maintenance work orders
• Brake adjustment records
• Tire replacement history

Interview Witnesses:
We locate and interview:

• Eyewitnesses
• First responders
• Other drivers
• Business owners with surveillance footage

Step 3: Expert Analysis

Accident Reconstruction:
Our experts analyze:

• ECM and ELD data
• Skid marks and debris patterns
• Vehicle damage
• Roadway conditions

Medical Analysis:
We work with medical experts to:

• Establish causation between the accident and your injuries
• Document the full extent of your injuries
• Project future medical needs

Vocational Analysis:
Vocational experts assess:

• Your ability to return to work
• Any permanent limitations
• Lost earning capacity

Economic Analysis:
Economic experts calculate:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Loss of earning capacity
• Present value of future damages

Life Care Planning:
For catastrophic injuries, we develop a comprehensive life care plan that outlines:

• Future medical needs
• Rehabilitation requirements
• Assistive devices
• Home modifications
• Long-term care needs

Step 4: Demand and Negotiation

Calculate Full Damages:
We calculate all categories of damages:

• Economic Damages:

  • Past and future medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • Property damage
  • Out-of-pocket expenses

• Non-Economic Damages:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Disfigurement
  • Physical impairment

• Punitive Damages:

  • Only available in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct

Send Demand Letter:
We send a comprehensive demand letter to the trucking company’s insurance carrier that includes:

• Description of the accident
• Analysis of liability
• Summary of injuries and damages
• Medical documentation
• Expert reports
• Settlement demand

Negotiate Settlement:
We negotiate aggressively with the insurance company to obtain fair compensation. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows all the tactics adjusters use to minimize claims.

Step 5: Litigation (If Necessary)

File Lawsuit:
If we cannot reach a fair settlement, we file a lawsuit in the appropriate court. In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is 2 years from the date of the accident.

Discovery:
During discovery, we:

• Take depositions of the truck driver, safety manager, and other key personnel
• Request additional documents and evidence
• Conduct expert analyses
• Build our case for trial

Mediation:
Many cases settle at mediation, where a neutral third party helps facilitate negotiations. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, which gives us leverage in mediation.

Trial:
If necessary, we take your case to trial. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of courtroom experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts for trucking accident victims.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Lexington Trucking Accident Case?

25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998. He has:

• Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts
• Handled cases against major trucking companies like Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS
• Secured compensation for catastrophic injuries including TBI, spinal cord injuries, and wrongful death
• Litigated complex cases in both state and federal courts

Federal Court Experience

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

• Interstate commerce
• Federal regulations
• Multiple defendants from different states

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes attorneys who previously worked for insurance defense firms. They know exactly how insurance companies:

• Evaluate claims
• Train adjusters to minimize payouts
• Use recorded statements against victims
• Deny legitimate claims

We use this insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation for our clients.

Proven Track Record of Results

We have recovered millions of dollars for trucking accident victims, including:

• $5+ million for a traumatic brain injury caused by a falling log at a logging company
• $3.8+ million for a car accident victim who suffered a partial leg amputation due to a staph infection during treatment
• $2+ million for a maritime worker who suffered a back injury while lifting cargo on a vessel
• $2.5+ million for a truck crash victim

Comprehensive Investigation and Expert Resources

We have the resources to thoroughly investigate your case and hire the best experts, including:

• Accident reconstruction specialists
• Medical experts
• Vocational experts
• Economic experts
• Life care planners

Personalized Attention and Compassionate Service

At Attorney911, we treat our clients like family. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a trucking accident takes on victims and their families. Our team provides:

• Direct access to your attorney
• Regular case updates
• Compassionate support throughout the process
• Help connecting with medical providers

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

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

If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident in Lexington, take these steps to protect your rights:

1. Call 911 and Report the Accident

   • Request police and emergency medical services
   • Report all injuries, even if they seem minor

2. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

   • Adrenaline can mask pain and symptoms
   • Internal injuries may not be immediately apparent
   • Delaying treatment gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim

3. Document the Scene

   • Take photographs of:
     • All vehicle damage (interior and exterior)
     • The accident scene (skid marks, debris, road conditions)
     • Traffic signals and signage
     • Your injuries
   • Get contact information from:
     • The truck driver
     • Any witnesses
     • Responding officers

4. Obtain Critical Information

   • Truck and trailer license plates
   • DOT number (usually on the truck door)
   • Trucking company name and logo
   • Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information

5. Do NOT Give Recorded Statements

   • Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you
   • Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim
   • Refer all inquiries to your attorney

6. Call Attorney911 Immediately

   • Critical evidence disappears quickly
   • We’ll send spoliation letters within hours to preserve evidence
   • The sooner we get involved, the stronger your case will be

Frequently Asked Questions About Lexington Trucking Accidents

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

If you’re able, take these steps:

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
• Document the scene with photos and video
• 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. Lexington Medical Center and other local hospitals 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 Lexington?

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 Lexington?

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 formal 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 Lexington?

Multiple parties may be liable in trucking accidents:

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

We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

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

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

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

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

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation as long as you were not more than 50% responsible. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs – the data tells the true story.

What is 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. 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 Lexington?

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 Lexington?

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 Lexington?

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 Lexington?

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.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Lexington, don’t wait. Critical evidence is disappearing every hour. Call Attorney911 now for a free consultation:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 attorney911.com

Our Lexington trucking accident attorneys are available 24/7 to help you. We offer:

• Free case evaluations
• No upfront costs
• Contingency fee representation (you pay nothing unless we win)
• Immediate evidence preservation
• Aggressive negotiation and litigation

Hablamos Español. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Don’t let the trucking company take advantage of you. With 25+ years of experience and millions recovered for trucking accident victims, we know how to fight for maximum compensation. Call Attorney911 today – we’re ready to fight for you.