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Town of Richland Springs 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers: Attorney911 Delivers 25+ Years of Courtroom-Tested Trucking Litigation, Former Insurance Defense Attorney Insider Advantage, FMCSA 49 CFR Regulation Masters, Black Box & ELD Data Extraction Specialists, Jackknife, Rollover, Underride, Brake Failure & All Crash Types, Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Damage, Amputation & Wrongful Death Advocates – $50+ Million Recovered for Texas Families, $5+ Million Brain Injury Settlement, $3.8+ Million Amputation Recovery, Federal Court Admitted, Three Texas Offices (Houston, Austin, Beaumont), Free 24/7 Consultation, No Fee Unless We Win, Hablamos Español, 1-888-ATTY-911, Same-Day Evidence Preservation for Town of Richland Springs Victims on US-190 and FM 45

February 14, 2026 31 min read
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18-Wheeler Accidents in Richland Springs, Texas: What You Need to Know After a Truck Crash

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Richland Springs, Texas, you’re likely facing overwhelming challenges. The aftermath of a commercial truck collision can be devastating, with severe injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about your future. At Attorney911, we understand the unique complexities of trucking accidents in San Saba County and across Texas. Our experienced team, led by managing partner Ralph Manginello with over 25 years of experience, has helped countless families recover the compensation they deserve after catastrophic truck crashes.

Why Richland Springs Trucking Accidents Are Different

Richland Springs sits in the heart of Texas, where rural highways intersect with major trucking corridors. The town’s location along State Highway 190 and proximity to US Highway 190 means heavy commercial traffic passes through regularly. Unlike urban areas, our rural roads present unique challenges:

  • Limited emergency response times – When accidents occur on the open roads around Richland Springs, it can take longer for first responders to arrive
  • Higher speeds on rural highways – Trucks traveling at highway speeds have less time to react to obstacles or changing conditions
  • Mixed traffic patterns – Large trucks share the road with local vehicles, agricultural equipment, and livestock
  • Limited truck parking – Drivers may be pressured to park in unsafe locations or continue driving when fatigued
  • Seasonal variations – Agricultural seasons bring increased truck traffic hauling crops and livestock

These factors make Richland Springs trucking accidents particularly dangerous. The size and weight disparity between 80,000-pound commercial vehicles and passenger cars often results in catastrophic outcomes.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Richland Springs

Trucking accidents in our area often result from a combination of factors. Some of the most common causes we see in San Saba County cases include:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Truck drivers are subject to strict federal hours of service regulations designed to prevent fatigue-related accidents. Under 49 CFR § 395, property-carrying drivers cannot:

  • Drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
  • Drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour on duty
  • Drive after 60/70 hours on duty in 7/8 consecutive days

Despite these regulations, we frequently see violations in Richland Springs trucking cases. Drivers may falsify their electronic logging device (ELD) records or be pressured by carriers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules. When fatigue sets in, reaction times slow dramatically, increasing the risk of catastrophic accidents.

Improper Cargo Loading and Securement

Cargo-related accidents are particularly common in our area due to the agricultural and industrial freight that moves through Richland Springs. Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) require:

  • Proper weight distribution to prevent instability
  • Adequate tiedowns to prevent cargo shift
  • Securement systems that can withstand specific forces (0.8g deceleration forward, 0.5g acceleration rearward)

When cargo isn’t properly secured, it can shift during transit, causing the trailer to become unbalanced and potentially leading to rollovers or jackknife accidents. In some cases, improperly secured loads can fall onto the roadway, creating hazards for other motorists.

Brake Failures and Maintenance Issues

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. In Richland Springs, where trucks navigate rural roads with varying terrain, brake failures can be particularly dangerous. Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.40-55) require:

  • Regular brake inspections and adjustments
  • Proper functioning of all brake components
  • Adequate brake lining thickness

We often find that trucking companies defer maintenance to save costs, putting everyone on the road at risk. When brakes fail, especially on downhill grades, the results can be catastrophic.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a growing problem among commercial truck drivers. Federal regulations (49 CFR § 392.82) prohibit:

  • Using hand-held mobile phones while driving
  • Texting while driving
  • Reaching for devices in a manner that requires leaving the seated position

Despite these rules, we see many Richland Springs trucking accidents caused by drivers using phones, adjusting GPS devices, or engaging in other distracting activities. The consequences can be deadly when an 80,000-pound vehicle is involved.

Speeding and Inadequate Following Distance

Trucks require significantly more stopping distance than passenger vehicles. A fully loaded truck traveling at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to come to a complete stop – nearly two football fields. When drivers exceed speed limits or follow too closely (violating 49 CFR § 392.11), they may not have enough time to react to changing traffic conditions.

Tire Blowouts

Tire failures are a significant hazard on Richland Springs roads. Under federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.75), tires must have:

  • Minimum tread depth of 4/32″ on steer tires
  • Minimum tread depth of 2/32″ on other positions
  • No visible damage or exposed cords

Tire blowouts can cause drivers to lose control, leading to jackknife accidents or rollovers. The debris from blown tires can also strike other vehicles, causing additional accidents.

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Trucks making right turns in Richland Springs often need to swing wide to avoid curbs or other obstacles. When drivers fail to properly signal or check their mirrors, smaller vehicles can become trapped in the “squeeze zone” between the truck and the curb, resulting in crushing injuries.

Underride Collisions

Underride accidents occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer of a truck. These are among the most deadly types of truck crashes. While federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.86) require rear underride guards on most trailers, there are no federal requirements for side underride guards. When a vehicle underrides a trailer, the passenger compartment can be sheared off at windshield level.

Types of Injuries in Richland Springs Trucking Accidents

The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks mean that accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. Some of the most common injuries we see in Richland Springs trucking cases include:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In trucking accidents, the extreme forces involved can cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull. Symptoms may include:

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

TBI can range from mild concussions to severe, life-altering injuries requiring lifelong care. The lifetime cost of treating severe TBI can exceed $3 million.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis. The severity depends on the level of the injury:

  • Cervical injuries (neck region): Can result in quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs)
  • Thoracic injuries (upper back): Can result in paraplegia (loss of function below the waist)
  • Lumbar injuries (lower back): Can affect leg function

Spinal cord injuries often require extensive rehabilitation and lifelong medical care. The lifetime cost for a paraplegic can exceed $2.5 million, while quadriplegia can cost $5 million or more.

Amputations

Amputations can occur at the scene of the accident due to crushing forces or may be necessary later if limbs are too severely damaged to save. These injuries require:

  • Initial surgery and hospitalization
  • Prosthetic limbs (which can cost $5,000-$50,000 each and need replacement over time)
  • Physical and occupational therapy
  • Psychological counseling

Severe Burns

Burns can occur from fuel tank ruptures, cargo fires, or electrical system failures. Burn injuries may require:

  • Multiple reconstructive surgeries
  • Skin grafts
  • Long-term wound care
  • Physical therapy
  • Psychological counseling

Internal Organ Damage

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

  • Liver and spleen lacerations
  • Kidney damage
  • Lung contusions or punctures
  • Internal bleeding

These injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents result in fatalities, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims. In Texas, wrongful death damages may include:

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

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Richland Springs Trucking Accident?

One of the most important aspects of trucking accident cases is identifying all potentially liable parties. Unlike car accidents, where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple responsible parties. At Attorney911, we thoroughly investigate every case to identify all parties who may be liable for your injuries.

The Truck Driver

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

  • Speeding or reckless driving
  • Distracted driving (cell phone use, texting, etc.)
  • 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)

Trucking companies can be held liable under several legal theories:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):
The company is responsible for the driver’s actions when the driver is acting within the scope of employment.

Direct Negligence:

  • Negligent Hiring: Failing to properly vet drivers (background checks, driving records, etc.)
  • Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training for drivers
  • Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance and compliance
  • Negligent Maintenance: Failing to properly maintain vehicles
  • Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service regulations

Cargo Owner/Shipper

The company that owns the cargo may be liable if:

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

Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

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

Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

Manufacturers may be liable for defects in:

  • Design (e.g., unstable trailer design)
  • Manufacturing (e.g., faulty welds)
  • Safety systems (e.g., defective brakes or lighting)
  • Failure to warn of known dangers

Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufacture specific components (brakes, tires, steering mechanisms) may be liable if their products fail and cause an accident.

Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance providers may be liable for:

  • Negligent repairs that fail to fix problems
  • Failure to identify critical safety issues
  • Improper brake adjustments
  • Using substandard or incorrect parts

Freight Broker

Freight brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

  • Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
  • Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
  • Failure to check carrier safety ratings

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 Entity

In limited circumstances, government entities may be liable for:

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

The Importance of Immediate Action After a Richland Springs Trucking Accident

Time is critical in trucking accident cases. Evidence disappears quickly, and trucking companies have rapid-response teams working to protect their interests. At Attorney911, we move fast to preserve evidence and build your case.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

Within the first 48 hours after a trucking accident, we take immediate action to preserve critical evidence:

  1. Send Spoliation Letters

    • Formal legal notice demanding preservation of all evidence
    • Sent to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties
    • Creates serious legal consequences if evidence is destroyed
  2. Preserve Electronic Data

    • ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, throttle position, and other critical information
    • ELD Records: Prove hours of service compliance or violations
    • GPS/Telematics Data: Shows the truck’s location and speed history
    • Dashcam Footage: May show the accident from the driver’s perspective
    • Cell Phone Records: Can prove distracted driving
  3. Secure Physical Evidence

    • The truck and trailer themselves
    • Failed or damaged components
    • Cargo and securement devices
    • Tire remnants if a blowout was involved
  4. Document the Scene

    • Photograph all vehicle damage
    • Document skid marks and road conditions
    • Preserve surveillance video from nearby businesses
    • Interview witnesses before memories fade
  5. Obtain Critical Records

    • Driver Qualification File
    • Maintenance and repair records
    • Inspection reports
    • Dispatch logs
    • Drug and alcohol test results

Why This Evidence Disappears Quickly

Evidence Type Destruction Risk
ECM/Black Box Data Overwrites in 30 days or with new driving events
ELD Data May be retained only 6 months
Dashcam Footage Often deleted within 7-14 days
Surveillance Video Business cameras typically overwrite in 7-30 days
Witness Memory Fades significantly within weeks
Physical Evidence Vehicle may be repaired, sold, or scrapped
Drug/Alcohol Tests Must be conducted within specific windows

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Richland Springs

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Richland Springs, taking the right steps immediately can protect your health and your legal 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

    • Adrenaline can mask pain and symptoms
    • Some injuries (internal bleeding, TBI) may not be immediately apparent
    • Medical records create critical evidence for your case
  3. Document the Scene

    • Take photos of all vehicle damage
    • Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, and skid marks
    • Get photos of your injuries
    • Document weather and lighting conditions
  4. Collect Information

    • Truck and trailer license plates
    • DOT number (on the truck door)
    • Trucking company name and logo
    • Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
    • Witness names and phone numbers
    • Responding officer’s name and badge number
  5. Avoid Common Mistakes

    • Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
    • Do NOT admit fault or apologize
    • Do NOT sign anything from the trucking company or their insurer
    • Do NOT post about the accident on social media
  6. Contact an 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney Immediately

    • Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases
    • We send spoliation letters within hours to preserve critical evidence
    • Early legal intervention protects your rights

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Richland Springs Trucking Accident Case

At Attorney911, we have the experience, resources, and dedication to handle even the most complex trucking accident cases. Here’s what sets us apart:

Decades of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience handling trucking accident cases. We’ve gone up against the largest trucking companies in America, including:

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

We understand how these companies operate and how to hold them accountable.

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. He spent years working for a national defense firm, learning their tactics from the inside. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for accident victims.

Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is critical for trucking cases, which often involve interstate commerce and federal regulations.

Proven Track Record of Results

We’ve recovered millions of dollars for trucking accident victims across Texas. While every case is unique, our results demonstrate our ability to secure maximum compensation for our clients:

  • $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

Comprehensive Investigation Resources

We have the resources to thoroughly investigate your case, including:

  • Accident reconstruction experts
  • Medical experts to establish causation
  • Vocational experts to calculate lost earning capacity
  • Economic experts to determine present value of damages
  • Life care planners to develop comprehensive care plans

Personalized Attention

Unlike large firms where you’re just a case number, we treat our clients like family. You’ll have direct access to your attorney, and we’ll keep you informed every step of the way. As one of our clients, Chad Harris, said: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”

Contingency Fee Representation

We work on contingency, which means:

  • You pay nothing upfront
  • We advance all costs of investigation and litigation
  • You pay nothing unless we win your case
  • Our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket

Bilingual Services

Many trucking accident victims in Richland Springs speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Understanding Your Rights Under Texas Law

Texas has specific laws that apply to trucking accident cases. Understanding these laws is crucial for protecting your rights and maximizing your recovery.

Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is strict, and missing it means losing your right to compensation forever. However, you should never wait to contact an attorney. Evidence disappears quickly, and early intervention is critical for building a strong case.

Comparative Negligence

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system (51% bar rule). This means:

  • If you are found to be 50% or less at fault, you can still recover damages
  • Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault
  • If you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover any damages

For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you would recover $80,000. This makes it critical to thoroughly investigate the accident and gather evidence to minimize any attributed fault.

Damage Caps

Texas has specific rules regarding damages in personal injury cases:

  • No cap on economic damages (medical expenses, lost wages, etc.)
  • No cap on non-economic damages (pain and suffering, mental anguish, etc.) in most personal injury cases
  • Punitive damages are capped at the greater of:
    • Two times economic damages plus non-economic damages (up to $750,000)
    • $200,000

Punitive damages may be available in cases involving gross negligence, willful misconduct, or conscious indifference to safety.

Insurance Requirements

Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance:

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

These higher limits mean that catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, unlike in typical car accidents where insurance may be limited to $30,000-$100,000.

The Legal Process for Richland Springs Trucking Accident Cases

At Attorney911, we guide our clients through every step of the legal process:

  1. Free Initial Consultation

    • We evaluate your case at no cost
    • Explain your rights and legal options
    • Answer all your questions
  2. Immediate Investigation

    • Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
    • Deploy accident reconstruction experts if needed
    • Obtain police reports and medical records
  3. Case Development

    • Identify all potentially liable parties
    • Gather comprehensive evidence of negligence
    • Calculate the full value of your damages
  4. Demand Package

    • Prepare a comprehensive demand letter
    • Present your case to the insurance company
    • Negotiate aggressively for maximum compensation
  5. Litigation (If Necessary)

    • File a lawsuit if a fair settlement cannot be reached
    • Conduct discovery (depositions, document requests)
    • Prepare your case for trial
  6. Resolution

    • Negotiate settlements from a position of strength
    • Present your case to a jury if necessary
    • Ensure you receive maximum compensation

Common Questions About Richland Springs Trucking Accidents

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Richland Springs, 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. Hospitals in Richland Springs and nearby San Saba 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 Richland Springs?

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 Richland Springs?

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.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Richland Springs?

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 responsible for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for:

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

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

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

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

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

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 Richland Springs?

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 Richland Springs?

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 Richland Springs?

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 Richland Springs?

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

  • Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
  • Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
  • Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys. We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way if necessary.

Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?

NO. We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

How much insurance do trucking companies carry?

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:

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

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

What if multiple insurance policies apply to my accident?

Trucking cases often involve multiple policies:

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

We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.

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

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

Don’t Wait – Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Richland Springs, time is critical. Evidence is disappearing every day, and the trucking company’s team is already working to protect their interests. You need experienced legal representation on your side.

At Attorney911, we offer:

  • Free consultations – We’ll evaluate your case at no cost
  • 24/7 availability – We answer calls immediately
  • No upfront fees – You pay nothing unless we win
  • Aggressive representation – We fight for maximum compensation
  • Local knowledge – We understand Richland Springs and San Saba County

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 or contact us online for your free case evaluation. Our Richland Springs trucking accident attorneys are ready to fight for you.

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

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

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

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