18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Town of Palmer, Texas

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

The impact was catastrophic. One moment you were driving down Town of Palmer’s highways, the next an 18-wheeler was jackknifing across three lanes of traffic. The size difference between your sedan and that 80,000-pound truck isn’t just dramatic – it’s deadly. When commercial vehicles collide with passenger cars, the results are often life-altering: traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, or worse.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Town of Palmer, Texas, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a legal team that understands the unique complexities of trucking litigation. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck 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 catastrophic truck crashes.

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

Why Town of Palmer Trucking Accidents Are Different

Town of Palmer sits at the crossroads of major Texas trucking corridors. The distribution centers along I-45 and the steady flow of freight through Ellis County create a perfect storm of commercial traffic and passenger vehicles sharing the road. We know Town of Palmer’s trucking landscape – from the weigh stations on I-45 to the local distribution hubs where drivers may be violating federal hours-of-service regulations to meet tight deadlines.

This local knowledge, combined with our deep understanding of FMCSA regulations, gives us a distinct advantage when building your case. We’ve handled trucking cases on every major highway in Town of Palmer and understand the unique challenges of this region’s trucking industry.

The Trucking Company’s Rapid Response Team is Already Working Against You

Before the ambulance even arrives at the scene of your Town of Palmer 18-wheeler accident, the trucking company’s rapid-response team is already mobilizing. Their goal? To protect their interests, not yours. They’ll send investigators to the scene, begin preserving evidence that benefits them, and start building their defense strategy.

Meanwhile, critical evidence in your case is disappearing fast:

• Black box data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days
• ELD records may be retained for only 6 months
• Dashcam footage often gets deleted within 7-14 days
• Witness memories fade significantly within weeks
• Physical evidence like the truck itself may be repaired or scrapped

This is why you need to call Attorney911 immediately. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained, putting the trucking company on legal notice that destroying evidence will result in serious consequences. Our team moves fast to preserve the evidence that will prove your case.

The 6 Most Common FMCSA Violations That Cause Trucking Accidents

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations exist to keep our roads safe. When trucking companies and drivers violate these rules, catastrophic accidents happen. These are the most common violations we find in Town of Palmer trucking accident cases:

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

Truck drivers are limited to:

• 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• No driving beyond the 14th consecutive hour on duty
• 30-minute break required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70 hour weekly limits with 34-hour restart

Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. When drivers violate these rules, they’re too tired to react safely to traffic conditions.

2. False Log Entries

Before electronic logging devices (ELDs), drivers could easily falsify paper logs. Even with ELDs, some drivers still find ways to manipulate their records. We subpoena ELD data to prove when drivers were actually on the road versus what their logs claim.

3. Brake System Deficiencies (49 CFR § 393.48)

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. Common issues include:

• Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
• Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
• Air brake system leaks or failures
• Brake fade from overheating on long descents

4. Cargo Securement Failures (49 CFR § 393.100-136)

Improperly secured cargo causes rollovers and spills. Cargo securement systems must withstand:

• 0.8 g deceleration forward (sudden stop)
• 0.5 g acceleration rearward
• 0.5 g lateral (side-to-side)
• At least 20% of cargo weight downward

5. Unqualified Drivers (49 CFR Part 391)

Trucking companies must maintain a Driver Qualification (DQ) 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.

6. Failure to Inspect (49 CFR § 396.13)

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

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client

The 10 Potentially Liable Parties in Your Town of Palmer Trucking Case

Unlike car accidents where usually only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple responsible parties. Each additional defendant increases the available insurance coverage and potential recovery for your injuries.

1. The Truck Driver

The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable for:

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

2. The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

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

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

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent Hiring: Failed to check 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 vehicle in safe condition
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations

3. The Cargo Owner / 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 carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
• Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics

4. The Cargo Loading Company

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

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

5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

The company that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components 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)

6. Parts Manufacturer

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

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

7. Maintenance Company

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 wrong parts
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

8. Freight Broker

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

• 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

9. Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

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

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

10. Government Entity

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

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

Our Comprehensive Investigation Process for Town of Palmer Trucking Cases

When you hire Attorney911, we launch a thorough investigation to identify all liable parties and build the strongest possible case.

Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)

• Accept your case and send preservation letters same day
• Deploy accident reconstruction expert to scene if needed
• Obtain police crash report
• Photograph your injuries with medical documentation
• Photograph all vehicles before they’re repaired or scrapped
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

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

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 for catastrophic injuries
• FMCSA regulation experts identify all violations

Phase 4: Litigation Strategy

• File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires (2 years in Texas)
• Pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
• Depose truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, maintenance personnel
• Build case for trial while negotiating settlement from position of strength
• Prepare every case as if going to trial (this creates leverage in negotiations)

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Town of Palmer Trucking Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. A fully loaded truck can weigh 20-25 times more than your passenger vehicle.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

• Mild (Concussion): Confusion, headaches, brief loss of consciousness
• Moderate: Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits
• Severe: Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment
• Lifetime Care Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity

Spinal Cord Injury

• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
• Incomplete Injury: Some nerve function remains
• Complete Injury: No nerve function below injury
• Lifetime Care Costs: $1.1 million to $5 million+

Amputation

• Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the scene
• Surgical Amputation: Limb so severely damaged it must be removed
• Ongoing Needs: Prosthetics ($5,000-$50,000+ each), rehabilitation, psychological counseling

Severe Burns

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

Internal Organ Damage

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

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident takes a loved one, Texas law allows wrongful death claims for:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (spousal companionship)
• Loss of parental guidance (for surviving children)
• Mental anguish
• Funeral expenses
• Medical expenses before death
• Pain and suffering before death
• Punitive damages (if gross negligence)

The Multi-Million Dollar Results We’ve Achieved for Trucking Accident Victims

While every case is unique, our track record demonstrates what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable:

• $5+ Million – Logging Brain Injury Settlement
• $3.8+ Million – Car Accident Amputation Settlement
• $2+ Million – Maritime Back Injury Settlement
• $2.5M – Truck Crash Recovery
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

These results show what juries award when trucking companies act with negligence or reckless disregard for safety. Insurance companies know we’re prepared to take cases to trial – which strengthens our position in settlement negotiations.

The Insurance Battle: How We Fight Back Against the Trucking Company’s Tactics

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

Common Insurance Tactics & Our Counter-Strategies

“One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
— Donald Wilcox, Attorney911 Client

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Town of Palmer Trucking Accident Case?

1. We’re Truck Accident Specialists

While many firms handle car accidents, we focus specifically on commercial vehicle litigation. We understand the complex regulations, industry practices, and unique challenges of trucking cases.

2. We Have Federal Court Experience

Our admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas means we can handle interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court.

3. We Have an Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Lupe Peña’s background gives us insider knowledge of how trucking insurers operate. He knows every tactic they’ll use against you – and how to counter it.

4. We’ve Litigated Against Major Corporations

We’ve successfully taken on:

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

5. We Offer Fluent Spanish Services

Many trucking accident victims in Town of Palmer speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.

6. We Have Offices Across Texas

With locations in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we’re never far from Town of Palmer trucking accident victims. Our team regularly handles cases throughout Ellis County and the surrounding region.

7. We Work on Contingency – You Pay Nothing Unless We Win

We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

The Most Dangerous Trucking Accidents in Town of Palmer

Our experience with Town of Palmer’s trucking corridors allows us to identify the most common and dangerous types of trucking accidents in this region:

1. Jackknife Accidents on I-45

Jackknifing occurs when the trailer and cab skid in opposite directions, with the trailer folding at an angle. These are particularly dangerous on I-45 where traffic density is high and sudden braking is common.

Common Causes:

• Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
• Speeding, especially on curves
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing)
• Brake system failures
• Driver inexperience with emergency maneuvers

2. Underride Collisions at Intersections

Underride accidents occur when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of an 18-wheeler and slides underneath. These are among the most fatal types of trucking accidents.

Town of Palmer High-Risk Zones:

• I-45 intersections with local roads
• Highway 287 intersections
• Truck-heavy intersections in Waxahachie and Ennis

3. Tire Blowouts on Highway 287

Tire blowouts are particularly dangerous on Highway 287 where speeds are high and shoulders may be limited.

Why They Happen:

• Underinflated tires causing overheating
• Overloaded vehicles exceeding tire capacity
• Worn or aging tires not replaced
• Road debris punctures
• Manufacturing defects

4. Rollover Accidents on Rural Roads

Town of Palmer’s rural roads present unique hazards for commercial trucks, particularly when taking curves at excessive speeds.

Common Locations:

• Sharp curves on FM 878
• Rural intersections with poor visibility
• Roads with sudden elevation changes

5. Blind Spot Collisions on I-45

The “No-Zones” around 18-wheelers are massive blind spots where drivers can’t see other vehicles. Right-side blind spots are particularly dangerous.

High-Risk Scenarios:

• Lane changes without proper mirror checks
• Improperly adjusted mirrors
• Driver distraction during lane changes
• Failure to use turn signals

6. Wide Turn Accidents in Urban Areas

When trucks swing wide to make right turns, they create dangerous gaps that smaller vehicles may enter.

Town of Palmer Danger Zones:

• Truck-heavy intersections in Waxahachie
• Loading dock areas
• Urban corridors with frequent deliveries

7. Brake Failure on Long Descents

While Town of Palmer doesn’t have mountainous terrain, long descents on I-45 can still cause brake fade if not properly managed.

Contributing Factors:

• Poor brake maintenance
• Overheated brakes from prolonged use
• Improper braking technique on descents
• Deferred maintenance to save costs

8. Cargo Spill Accidents

Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit or fall onto roadways, creating hazards for following vehicles.

High-Risk Cargo in Town of Palmer:

• Agricultural products from local farms
• Construction materials
• Hazardous materials transported through Ellis County

“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day… it only took 6 months amazing.”
— Chavodrian Miles, Attorney911 Client

What to Do Immediately After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Town of Palmer

At the Scene (If You’re Able)

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out immediately
3. Document the Scene – Take photos and video of:
   • All vehicle damage (inside and out)
   • The accident scene and road conditions
   • Skid marks, debris patterns, traffic signals
   • Your injuries
4. Collect Information – Get:
   • Truck and trailer license plates
   • DOT number (on truck door)
   • Trucking company name and logo
   • Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
   • Witness names and phone numbers
   • Responding officer’s name and badge number
5. Do NOT – Give recorded statements to any insurance company
   • Admit fault or apologize
   • Discuss injuries or prognosis

In the Following Days

1. Follow Up with Medical Treatment – Attend all follow-up appointments and follow your doctor’s orders
2. Document Everything – Keep records of:
   • Medical visits and treatments
   • Medications prescribed
   • Pain levels and symptoms
   • How injuries affect daily activities
   • Time missed from work
3. Do NOT – Post about the accident on social media
   • Sign any documents from insurance companies
   • Accept any settlement offers
4. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 – The sooner we get involved, the better we can protect your rights

The Evidence We Preserve in Every Town of Palmer Trucking Case

Electronic Data

• ECM/Black Box Data: Speed, braking, throttle position, fault codes
• ELD Records: Hours of service, GPS location, driving time
• GPS/Telematics: Real-time location history and route data
• Cell Phone Records: Driver’s phone usage before accident
• Dashcam Footage: Forward-facing and cab-facing cameras
• Dispatch Records: Communications about routes and deadlines

Driver Records

• Driver Qualification File: Employment application, background check, medical certification
• Driving Record: Previous violations and accidents
• Drug/Alcohol Tests: Pre-employment and random testing results
• Training Records: Safety and cargo securement training

Vehicle Records

• Maintenance Records: Service history and repairs
• Inspection Reports: Pre-trip, post-trip, annual inspections
• Out-of-Service Orders: Previous violations and repairs
• Tire Records: Purchase and replacement history

Company Records

• Safety Policies: Company safety procedures
• Hiring Practices: Background check procedures
• Supervision Records: Driver performance monitoring
• Dispatch Logs: Trip records and schedules

Physical Evidence

• The truck and trailer themselves
• Failed or damaged components
• Cargo and securement devices
• Tire remnants (if blowout involved)

The Damages You Can Recover in Your Town of Palmer Trucking Case

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

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

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

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

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence)

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

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

Texas law allows punitive damages up to the greater of:

• (2 × economic damages) + (non-economic damages capped at $750,000)
• OR $200,000

The Town of Palmer Trucking Corridors We Know Intimately

Our experience with Town of Palmer’s trucking landscape gives us a unique advantage in building your case:

I-45 Corridor

• Primary north-south freight route through Texas
• High truck traffic density
• Multiple distribution centers along corridor
• Known for sudden traffic slowdowns and congestion

Highway 287

• Major east-west route through Ellis County
• Connects to I-35 and I-45
• Significant agricultural and construction truck traffic
• Rural stretches with limited shoulders

FM 878 and Rural Roads

• Connect rural areas to major highways
• Sharp curves and elevation changes
• Limited truck parking and rest areas
• Agricultural truck traffic

Local Distribution Hubs

• Waxahachie industrial areas
• Ennis distribution centers
• Palmer area warehouses
• Loading docks and freight terminals

Weigh Stations and Inspection Sites

• I-45 weigh stations
• State inspection facilities
• Areas where drivers may be pressured to violate HOS regulations

The Timeline of Your Town of Palmer Trucking Case

While every case is unique, here’s what you can generally expect:

Immediate Aftermath (0-72 Hours)

• Emergency medical treatment
• Accident scene investigation
• Initial evidence preservation
• Police report filed

First Month

• Comprehensive medical evaluation
• Attorney investigation begins
• Spoliation letters sent
• Initial evidence gathered
• Liable parties identified

Months 1-6

• Ongoing medical treatment
• Expert analysis of evidence
• Demand letter sent to insurance companies
• Initial settlement negotiations
• Lawsuit filed if no fair offer

Months 6-12

• Discovery process (document requests, depositions)
• Expert reports finalized
• Mediation or settlement conferences
• Potential settlement
• Trial preparation if no settlement

Year 1-2

• Trial if no settlement reached
• Potential appeal if verdict unfavorable
• Collection of judgment or settlement

Catastrophic Injury Cases

• May take 2-4 years for full resolution
• Requires long-term medical projections
• Often involves multiple expert witnesses

Frequently Asked Questions About Town of Palmer Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Town of Palmer?

Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene with photos, collect witness information, and call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company.

How much is my Town of Palmer trucking accident case worth?

Case values depend on many factors including injury severity, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and degree of negligence. Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Town of Palmer?

Multiple parties may be liable including:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• The cargo owner
• The loading company
• Truck or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers
• Government entities (for road defects)

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. Sending this letter immediately puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.

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

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) that record operational data including speed, braking, throttle position, and GPS location. This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

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
• 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, or even enter default judgment in extreme cases.

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.

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.

How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Texas?

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.

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.

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.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

We identify all potentially liable parties and all available insurance coverage. Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, other defendants (manufacturers, loading companies, etc.) and their insurance may still be liable.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows modified comparative negligence. You can recover damages as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How do you prove the driver was fatigued?

We use multiple sources of evidence:

• ELD data showing hours of service violations
• Dispatch records showing unrealistic schedules
• Cell phone records showing late-night communications
• Witness testimony about driver behavior
• Driver’s own statements about their schedule

What is the FMCSA and how does it help my case?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulates commercial trucking. FMCSA regulations establish safety standards that trucking companies must follow. Violations of these regulations create strong evidence of negligence.

Can I access the trucking company’s safety record?

Yes. 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 experts do you use in trucking cases?

We work with:

• Accident reconstruction specialists
• Medical experts
• Vocational experts
• Economic experts
• Life care planners
• FMCSA regulation experts
• Trucking industry experts

How are wrongful death damages calculated?

Wrongful death damages include:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (spousal companionship)
• Loss of parental guidance (for surviving children)
• Mental anguish
• Funeral expenses
• Medical expenses before death
• Punitive damages (if gross negligence)

What happens if there’s not enough insurance?

Trucking companies are required to carry minimum liability insurance:

• $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
• $1,000,000 for oil/petroleum
• $5,000,000 for hazardous materials

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more. We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.

What if the trucking company’s insurance tries to settle quickly?

Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

The Attorney911 Difference: Why We’re the Right Choice for Your Town of Palmer Trucking Case

We’re Not Just Texas Attorneys – We’re Town of Palmer Attorneys

We know Town of Palmer’s trucking corridors, local courts, and the unique challenges of this region. Our team has handled cases on every major highway in Town of Palmer and understands the local trucking industry.

We Have Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

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

We’ve Recovered Millions for Trucking Accident Victims

Our track record speaks for itself:

• $5+ Million – Logging Brain Injury Settlement
• $3.8+ Million – Car Accident Amputation Settlement
• $2.5M – Truck Crash Recovery
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

We Offer Fluent Spanish Services

Many trucking accident victims in Town of Palmer speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.

We Have Federal Court Experience

Our admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas means we can handle interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court.

We Work on Contingency – You Pay Nothing Unless We Win

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.

We Treat You Like Family

“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

Call Attorney911 Now – Before the Evidence Disappears

Every hour you wait, evidence in your Town of Palmer trucking accident case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests.

You need an attorney who moves just as fast.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence and begin building your case. Our Town of Palmer trucking accident attorneys offer free consultations and work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.

“They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

Don’t let the trucking company push you around. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. We answer 24/7.