18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Upshur County, Texas

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

The moment an 18-wheeler crashes into your vehicle on Upshur County highways, your life changes forever. One minute you’re driving to work, running errands in Gilmer, or heading home from a high school football game in Big Sandy. The next, you’re facing catastrophic injuries, mounting medical bills, and the harsh reality that the trucking company responsible has already deployed its rapid-response legal team to protect its interests – not yours.

At Attorney911, we know Upshur County’s roads like the back of our hand. From the busy US-271 corridor that connects Pittsburg to Gilmer, to the rural routes where oil field trucks and logging haulers share the road with families, we’ve seen firsthand how trucking accidents devastate East Texas communities. Our team has been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we’re ready to fight for you.

Why Upshur County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Upshur County’s unique geography and industry create specific trucking accident risks that require local knowledge:

Oil and Gas Trucking: The Eagle Ford Shale operations bring heavy oilfield equipment through our county, often driven by fatigued workers under tight deadlines
Logging Haulers: Timber trucks from our forests frequently travel rural roads with improperly secured loads
Highway Corridors: US-271 and State Highway 155 see heavy truck traffic, including oversized loads and hazardous materials
Distribution Centers: Warehouses serving East Texas create concentrated truck traffic in commercial zones
Seasonal Variations: Hunting season, agricultural harvests, and holiday shopping create periodic spikes in truck traffic

We understand these local patterns and how they contribute to accidents on Upshur County roads.

The Attorney911 Advantage: Insider Knowledge of Trucking Company Tactics

What makes our firm different? Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for national trucking companies. He knows exactly how they:

Train adjusters to minimize claims
Pressure drivers to falsify log books
Delay maintenance to save costs
Destroy evidence before it can be used against them
Use complex corporate structures to limit liability

This insider knowledge gives us an unfair advantage in building your case. We know every trick they’ll try, and we know how to counter it.

Common 18-Wheeler Accident Types in Upshur County

Jackknife Accidents on Our Highways

When a truck’s trailer swings out at a 90-degree angle, it becomes a deadly barrier across multiple lanes. These often occur on US-271 when drivers brake suddenly on wet roads or take curves too fast. The resulting multi-vehicle pileups can cause catastrophic injuries to everyone involved.

Underride Collisions: The Deadliest Trucking Accident

When a passenger vehicle slides underneath a trailer, the roof is often sheared off at windshield level. These accidents are particularly deadly on rural roads where lighting is poor and trucks make sudden stops. We’ve seen cases where entire families were killed in underride accidents on Upshur County roads.

Rollover Accidents on Our Rural Roads

Top-heavy trucks can roll over when taking curves too fast, especially when carrying uneven loads. These accidents are common on the winding roads around Lake Gilmer and the hilly terrain near Ore City. Rollover accidents often result in cargo spills that create additional hazards for other drivers.

Rear-End Collisions at Stoplights

With the trucking industry’s tight deadlines, drivers often follow too closely and can’t stop in time. These accidents frequently occur at the US-271 and SH-155 intersection in Gilmer, where trucks must stop suddenly for traffic signals. The force of an 80,000-pound truck hitting your vehicle at even 30 mph can cause life-altering injuries.

Wide Turn Accidents in Our Towns

When trucks swing wide to make right turns, they create dangerous gaps that smaller vehicles can enter. These “squeeze play” accidents are common in downtown Gilmer and at busy intersections throughout Upshur County. Pedestrians and cyclists are especially vulnerable to these types of accidents.

Tire Blowouts on Our Roads

With Upshur County’s summer heat and the heavy loads carried by oilfield and logging trucks, tire blowouts are a significant hazard. When a steer tire blows, the driver can lose control completely. We’ve handled cases where blowout debris caused secondary accidents with multiple vehicles.

Brake Failures on Our Hills

The terrain in Upshur County includes significant elevation changes that put extra stress on truck braking systems. When brakes fail on long descents, the results can be catastrophic. These accidents often occur on the hills approaching Gilmer from the north and south.

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Upshur County Trucking Accidents

The physics of a collision between an 80,000-pound truck and a 4,000-pound passenger vehicle means injuries are often severe:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

The violent forces in a trucking accident can cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull. We’ve represented clients with:

Severe concussions requiring months of rehabilitation
Permanent cognitive impairments affecting memory and decision-making
Personality changes that strain family relationships
Comas requiring long-term care facilities

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

When the spinal cord is damaged, the consequences are often permanent:

Quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs)
Paraplegia (loss of function in lower body)
Partial paralysis with limited mobility
Chronic pain requiring lifelong medication

Amputations

The crushing forces in trucking accidents often result in:

Traumatic amputations at the scene
Surgical amputations due to severe tissue damage
Multiple limb loss in severe accidents
Phantom limb pain and psychological trauma

Severe Burns

When fuel tanks rupture in trucking accidents, victims often suffer:

Third-degree burns requiring skin grafts
Facial burns causing permanent disfigurement
Smoke inhalation injuries
Long-term pain management needs

Internal Organ Damage

The blunt force trauma from trucking accidents can cause:

Ruptured spleens requiring emergency removal
Liver lacerations
Kidney damage
Internal bleeding that may not be immediately apparent

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents prove fatal, we help families pursue wrongful death claims to recover:

Lost future income for surviving family members
Loss of companionship and guidance
Funeral and burial expenses
Pain and suffering endured before death

Who We Hold Accountable in Upshur County Trucking Cases

Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple liable parties:

The Truck Driver

We investigate whether the driver was:

Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
Distracted by cell phone use or dispatch communications
Fatigued from violating hours of service regulations
Impaired by drugs or alcohol
Improperly trained on the specific vehicle or route

The Trucking Company

We hold carriers accountable for:

Negligent hiring of unqualified drivers
Inadequate training programs
Pressure to meet unrealistic delivery schedules
Failure to maintain proper records
Poor safety culture that prioritizes profits over safety

Cargo Owners and Shippers

When cargo issues contribute to accidents, we pursue:

Companies that overloaded trucks beyond legal limits
Those who failed to disclose hazardous materials
Shippers who pressured carriers to meet tight deadlines

Loading Companies

Third-party loaders can be liable for:

Improper cargo securement
Unbalanced load distribution
Failure to follow FMCSA securement regulations
Using inadequate or worn tiedowns

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

When equipment fails, we investigate:

Defective brake systems
Faulty tires prone to blowouts
Malfunctioning steering components
Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers can be liable for:

Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
Using substandard or incorrect parts
Failing to identify critical safety issues
Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Freight Brokers

Brokers who arrange transportation can be liable for:

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

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, we may pursue claims against:

Upshur County for dangerous road design
Texas Department of Transportation for maintenance failures
Local municipalities for traffic signal malfunctions

The Critical Evidence We Preserve in Upshur County Trucking Cases

Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. We act fast to preserve:

Electronic Data That Can Be Overwritten

ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, throttle position – critical for proving liability
ELD Records: Electronic logs that prove hours of service violations
GPS Tracking Data: Shows the truck’s exact route and timing
Cell Phone Records: Prove distracted driving
Dashcam Footage: Forward and cab-facing cameras that show driver behavior

Paper Records That Can Be Destroyed

Driver Qualification Files: Prove negligent hiring if incomplete or falsified
Maintenance Records: Show whether the truck was properly maintained
Inspection Reports: Reveal pre-existing violations the company ignored
Dispatch Records: Can show pressure to violate hours of service
Drug and Alcohol Test Results: Prove impairment at the time of the accident

Physical Evidence That Can Disappear

The truck and trailer themselves (often repaired or sold quickly)
Failed components (brakes, tires, steering parts)
Cargo and securement devices
Tire remnants from blowouts

The FMCSA Regulations That Protect Upshur County Drivers

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict regulations that trucking companies must follow. We use these regulations to prove negligence:

Hours of Service Rules (49 CFR Part 395)

11-Hour Driving Limit: Drivers cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
14-Hour Duty Window: Cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour on duty
30-Minute Break: Required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: Cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days

Violations of these rules contribute to approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes.

Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR Part 391)

Trucking companies must maintain complete qualification files including:

Employment applications
Driving record checks
Medical certification
Drug and alcohol test results
Previous employer verification
Training documentation

Failure to maintain these files proves negligent hiring.

Vehicle Maintenance Requirements (49 CFR Part 396)

Systematic inspection and maintenance programs
Annual inspections by qualified inspectors
Driver pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
Immediate repair of out-of-service violations

Brake system violations alone are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes.

Cargo Securement Rules (49 CFR Part 393)

Working load limits for tiedowns
Specific requirements by cargo type
Performance criteria for securement systems
Requirements for blocking, bracing, and friction mats

Cargo securement violations are among the top 10 most common FMCSA violations.

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

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

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

These results show that when trucking companies cut corners, they can and should be held accountable for the full extent of the harm they cause.

Why Upshur County Families Choose Attorney911

Local Knowledge of Upshur County Courts and Roads

We know the local judges, court staff, and legal landscape. We understand the specific challenges of trucking cases in Upshur County, from the oilfield traffic to the logging haulers on our rural roads.

Federal Court Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for interstate trucking cases that often involve federal regulations.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for national insurance defense firms. He knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers evaluate claims and try to minimize payouts. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

Bilingual Services for Upshur County’s Hispanic Community

Many truck drivers and accident victims in Upshur County speak Spanish as their primary language. Our team includes Spanish-speaking attorneys and staff, ensuring clear communication throughout your case.

24/7 Availability for Trucking Accident Emergencies

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. We’re available around the clock to respond to your emergency and begin preserving critical evidence before it’s lost.

Contingency Fee Representation

You pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation, and our fee comes only from the recovery we obtain for you.

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Upshur County

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident, follow these steps to protect your rights:

Call 911 immediately – Report the accident and request medical assistance
Seek medical attention – Even if you feel okay, some injuries aren’t immediately apparent
Document the scene – Take photos of all vehicles, the accident scene, and your injuries
Get trucking company information – Record the company name, DOT number, and driver information
Collect witness information – Get names and contact information from anyone who saw the accident
Do NOT give recorded statements – Insurance adjusters will try to get you to say things that hurt your case
Call Attorney911 immediately – Time is critical to preserve evidence before it’s destroyed

The Attorney911 Process for Upshur County Trucking Cases

Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)

We accept your case and send preservation letters the same day
We deploy accident reconstruction experts to the scene if needed
We obtain the police crash report
We photograph your injuries with medical documentation
We photograph all vehicles before they’re repaired or scrapped
We identify all potentially liable parties

Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

We subpoena ECM/black box data downloads
We request the driver’s paper log books (backup documentation)
We obtain the complete Driver Qualification File from the carrier
We request all truck maintenance and inspection records
We obtain the carrier’s CSA safety scores and inspection history
We order the driver’s complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
We subpoena the driver’s cell phone records
We obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules

Expert Analysis

Accident reconstruction specialists create a crash analysis
Medical experts establish causation and future care needs
Vocational experts calculate lost earning capacity
Economic experts determine the present value of all damages
Life care planners develop comprehensive care plans for catastrophic injuries
FMCSA regulation experts identify all violations

Litigation Strategy

We file your lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires
We pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
We depose the truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, and maintenance personnel
We build your case for trial while negotiating settlement from a position of strength
We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial to create maximum leverage

The Upshur County Trucking Corridors We Know Best

Our familiarity with Upshur County’s trucking routes helps us build stronger cases:

US-271 Corridor

This major north-south route sees heavy truck traffic including:

Oilfield equipment haulers
Logging trucks
Long-haul freight carriers
Oversized load transports

Common accident locations:

Intersection with SH-155 in Gilmer
Approaches to the US-271 bridge over Lake Gilmer
The stretch between Gilmer and Pittsburg
Areas where the highway narrows or has sharp curves

State Highway 155

This east-west route carries significant truck traffic including:

Local delivery trucks
Agricultural haulers
Oilfield service vehicles
Logging trucks from area forests