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Victoria County’s Premier 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys: Attorney911 Delivers 25+ Years of Courtroom-Tested Trucking Litigation Experience, Led by Ralph Manginello with Multi-Million Dollar Verdicts and Settlements, Including $5+ Million Brain Injury and $2.5+ Million Truck Crash Recoveries—Plus Former Insurance Defense Attorney Lupe Peña Exposes Their Tactics From the Inside, FMCSA Regulation Masters (49 CFR Parts 390-399), Black Box Data Extraction Specialists, Hours of Service Violation Hunters, and Comprehensive Crash Coverage for Jackknife, Rollover, Underride, Brake Failure, Cargo Spills, and All 18-Wheeler Accidents—Catastrophic Injury Experts for TBI, Spinal Cord Damage, Amputations, and Wrongful Death Claims—Federal Court Admitted, Three Texas Offices (Houston, Austin, Beaumont), Free 24/7 Consultation with No Fee Unless We Win, Same-Day Evidence Preservation, Hablamos Español, 4.9★ Google Rating (251+ Reviews), Featured on ABC13 and Houston Chronicle—Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for the Legal Emergency Lawyers™ Who Fight for Maximum Compensation in Victoria County

February 8, 2026 32 min read
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18-Wheeler Accidents in Victoria County: Your Guide to Justice and Recovery

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Victoria County, you’re facing one of the most complex and dangerous situations on our roads. The massive size and weight of commercial trucks create catastrophic forces that often result in life-altering injuries. At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas, and we understand exactly what Victoria County families are going through.

Why Victoria County 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different

Victoria County’s position along major trucking corridors makes it particularly vulnerable to commercial vehicle accidents. Our county sits at the intersection of critical freight routes that connect the Port of Houston to destinations throughout Texas and beyond. Every day, hundreds of 18-wheelers travel through Victoria County on:

  • US Highway 59/I-69 – A primary route connecting Houston to Victoria and points north
  • US Highway 87 – Running through the heart of Victoria, this highway sees significant truck traffic
  • US Highway 77 – Connecting Victoria to Corpus Christi and the Rio Grande Valley
  • State Highway 185 – Serving local trucking needs and connecting to surrounding communities

The combination of high truck volume, local traffic, and agricultural vehicles creates a dangerous mix that too often leads to devastating accidents.

The Devastating Impact of 18-Wheeler Accidents

The physics of trucking accidents make them uniquely dangerous. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds – that’s 20-25 times heavier than the average passenger car. When these massive vehicles collide with smaller cars, the results are often catastrophic:

Common 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries in Victoria County:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) from violent impacts
  • Spinal cord damage and paralysis from crushing forces
  • Amputations when vehicles are sheared apart
  • Severe burns from fuel tank ruptures or cargo fires
  • Internal organ damage from blunt force trauma
  • Multiple fractures requiring extensive surgery
  • Wrongful death of loved ones

These aren’t just medical terms – they represent real Victoria County families whose lives have been forever changed. The medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma can be overwhelming. That’s why you need an experienced Victoria County 18-wheeler accident attorney on your side.

Why You Need a Victoria County Trucking Accident Lawyer Immediately

Trucking companies begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. Their rapid-response teams are trained to:

  • Collect evidence that minimizes their liability
  • Interview witnesses before you can
  • Destroy or overwrite critical data
  • Pressure you into quick, lowball settlements

Critical evidence in Victoria County trucking cases disappears fast:

  • Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days
  • ELD logs may only be retained for 6 months
  • Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days
  • Witness memories fade within weeks
  • Physical evidence gets repaired or scrapped

At Attorney911, we move just as fast as the trucking companies. When you call us, we immediately send spoliation letters demanding preservation of all evidence. We know exactly what to look for and how to secure it before it’s lost forever.

How We Build Strong Victoria County Trucking Cases

Our Victoria County 18-wheeler accident attorneys use a comprehensive approach to build the strongest possible case for your recovery:

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation

Within hours of being retained, we send formal legal notices to all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of:

  • ECM/Black Box Data – Shows speed, braking, throttle position
  • ELD Records – Proves hours of service violations
  • Driver Qualification Files – Reveals hiring negligence
  • Maintenance Records – Identifies deferred repairs
  • Cell Phone Records – Proves distracted driving
  • Dashcam Footage – Captures the accident sequence
  • Cargo Documentation – Shows loading violations

2. Thorough Investigation

We leave no stone unturned in our Victoria County trucking accident investigations:

  • Accident Reconstruction – We work with expert engineers to determine exactly what happened
  • FMCSA Compliance Review – We identify all federal regulation violations
  • Corporate Safety Analysis – We examine the trucking company’s safety culture
  • Interview Witnesses – We locate and interview all witnesses before memories fade
  • Scene Documentation – We photograph the accident scene, road conditions, and vehicle damage

3. Identifying All Liable Parties

In Victoria County trucking cases, multiple parties may share responsibility:

  • The Truck Driver – For negligent operation, fatigue, distraction, or impairment
  • The Trucking Company – For negligent hiring, training, supervision, or maintenance
  • Cargo Owners – For improper loading or hazardous cargo
  • Maintenance Companies – For negligent repairs
  • Manufacturers – For defective truck parts or systems
  • Freight Brokers – For negligent carrier selection
  • Government Entities – For dangerous road conditions

4. Proving Negligence

We build strong negligence cases by proving:

  • Duty of Care – The trucking company owed you a duty to operate safely
  • Breach of Duty – They violated federal regulations or industry standards
  • Causation – Their negligence directly caused the accident
  • Damages – You suffered real harm as a result

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Victoria County

Our experience with Victoria County trucking accidents has revealed several common causes:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Federal regulations limit truck drivers to:

  • 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
  • 14-hour on-duty window before mandatory rest
  • 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
  • 60/70-hour weekly limits with mandatory restarts

Despite these rules, we frequently find violations in Victoria County cases. Drivers push limits to meet tight schedules, and companies often encourage or ignore these violations. Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) now make it harder to falsify logs, but we still find cases where drivers manipulate their hours.

Distracted Driving

Cell phone use, GPS devices, dispatch communications, and other distractions cause many Victoria County trucking accidents. Federal regulations prohibit:

  • Texting while driving (49 CFR § 392.80)
  • Using hand-held mobile phones (49 CFR § 392.82)
  • Reaching for devices in a way that requires leaving the seated position

Improper Cargo Loading

Cargo securement violations are common in Victoria County and can cause:

  • Rollovers from top-heavy loads
  • Jackknifes from shifting cargo
  • Spills that create road hazards
  • Underride accidents from improperly secured trailers

Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) specify exact requirements for cargo securement, but we frequently find violations in our cases.

Maintenance Failures

Poor maintenance leads to equipment failures that cause accidents:

  • Brake failures – Responsible for 29% of truck accidents
  • Tire blowouts – Cause loss of control and debris hazards
  • Lighting failures – Make trucks invisible at night
  • Steering failures – Prevent drivers from avoiding collisions

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Despite their size, many 18-wheelers travel at excessive speeds on Victoria County highways. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases stopping distance, making accidents more likely and more severe.

Impaired Driving

While less common than other causes, we do see cases involving:

  • Alcohol impairment (BAC .04 or higher is illegal for CDL drivers)
  • Drug impairment (including prescription medications)
  • Fatigue impairment (which can be as dangerous as alcohol)

The Most Dangerous 18-Wheeler Accident Types in Victoria County

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknifes occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes. These are particularly dangerous on US 59/I-69 where high speeds and heavy traffic create ideal conditions for multi-vehicle pileups.

Common causes in Victoria County:

  • Sudden braking on wet roads
  • Speeding around curves
  • Empty or lightly loaded trailers
  • Brake system failures
  • Improper cargo loading

Underride Collisions

Underride accidents happen when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler. These are often fatal because the trailer shears off the top of the smaller vehicle.

Victoria County underride risks:

  • Rear underride – When a truck stops suddenly and a vehicle rear-ends it
  • Side underride – When a truck turns across traffic or changes lanes
  • Missing or inadequate guards – Many trailers lack proper underride protection

Federal regulations require rear underride guards, but there is no requirement for side guards – despite their proven effectiveness in preventing fatalities.

Rollover Accidents

Rollovers occur when an 18-wheeler tips onto its side or roof. These accidents are particularly common in Victoria County due to:

  • The curves on US 87 and US 77
  • Improperly secured cargo that shifts during turns
  • Top-heavy loads that make trucks unstable
  • Driver overcorrection after running off the road

Wide Turn Accidents

Wide turns, often called “squeeze play” accidents, happen when a truck swings wide to make a right turn, creating a gap that smaller vehicles try to enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing the smaller vehicle.

Common locations in Victoria County:

  • Intersections along US 87 in downtown Victoria
  • Shopping center entrances and exits
  • Highway on-ramps and off-ramps

Blind Spot Collisions

18-wheelers have massive blind spots called “No-Zones” where the driver cannot see other vehicles. The right side blind spot is particularly dangerous and extends the entire length of the trailer.

Victoria County blind spot dangers:

  • Lane changes on US 59/I-69
  • Merging onto highways
  • Turning at intersections
  • Passing on two-lane roads

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Victoria County

At the Scene

  1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
  2. Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, get checked out
  3. Document everything – Take photos of vehicles, injuries, road conditions
  4. Get truck and driver information – Company name, DOT number, license plate
  5. Collect witness information – Names and contact details
  6. Do NOT give statements – Don’t talk to insurance adjusters or trucking company representatives

In the Following Days

  1. Follow all medical advice – Attend all appointments and follow treatment plans
  2. Document your recovery – Keep a journal of symptoms and limitations
  3. Preserve evidence – Save all medical records, bills, and accident-related documents
  4. Contact an attorney – The sooner you call, the better we can protect your rights

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Victoria County Trucking Case

1. We’re Victoria County Trucking Accident Specialists

While many firms handle car accidents, we specialize in 18-wheeler cases. We understand the complex federal regulations, industry practices, and unique challenges of trucking litigation.

2. We Have Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes former insurance defense attorneys who know exactly how trucking insurers operate. We’ve seen every tactic they use to minimize claims, and we know how to counter them.

3. We Move Fast to Preserve Evidence

We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve critical evidence before it’s destroyed. We know where to look and what to demand.

4. We Have a Proven Track Record of Results

Our Victoria County 18-wheeler accident attorneys have recovered millions for trucking accident victims. While every case is unique, our experience includes:

  • Multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injury victims
  • Significant recoveries for families in wrongful death cases
  • Successful litigation against major trucking companies

5. We Handle All Aspects of Your Case

From investigation to negotiation to trial, we handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on recovery. Our services include:

  • Medical care coordination – We help you get the treatment you need
  • Evidence preservation – We secure critical data before it’s lost
  • Liability investigation – We identify all responsible parties
  • Insurance negotiations – We fight for fair compensation
  • Litigation – We’re prepared to take your case to trial if necessary

6. We Offer Bilingual Services

Victoria County has a significant Hispanic population, and we’re proud to serve our Spanish-speaking community. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español.

7. We Work on Contingency – No Fee Unless We Win

You pay nothing upfront. We advance all costs of your case, and our fee comes only from your recovery. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.

The Attorney911 Difference: How We Fight for Victoria County Families

Our Immediate Response Protocol

When you call Attorney911 about your Victoria County trucking accident, here’s what happens:

  1. Same-Day Case Evaluation – We assess your case immediately
  2. Spoliation Letters Sent – Within 24-48 hours to preserve evidence
  3. Expert Deployment – Accident reconstructionists and investigators dispatched
  4. Medical Coordination – We help you get the care you need
  5. Insurance Notification – We handle all communications with insurers

Our Comprehensive Investigation Process

We leave no stone unturned in building your case:

Phase 1: Evidence Preservation (0-72 Hours)

  • Send spoliation letters to all parties
  • Demand immediate download of ECM/ELD data
  • Secure dashcam footage before it’s deleted
  • Photograph vehicles before repair
  • Interview witnesses while memories are fresh

Phase 2: In-Depth Investigation (Days 1-30)

  • Obtain complete Driver Qualification File
  • Review hours of service records for violations
  • Analyze maintenance and inspection records
  • Subpoena cell phone and dispatch records
  • Examine cargo loading documentation
  • Research trucking company safety history

Phase 3: Expert Analysis

  • Accident reconstruction to determine causes
  • Medical experts to document injuries and prognosis
  • Economic experts to calculate lost earning capacity
  • Life care planners for catastrophic injury cases
  • FMCSA experts to identify regulatory violations

Phase 4: Strategic Litigation

  • File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires
  • Conduct aggressive discovery against all defendants
  • Take depositions of key witnesses
  • Build case for trial while negotiating from strength
  • Prepare every case as if it’s going to trial

Understanding Your Rights Under Texas Law

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 this long – evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases.

Comparative Negligence

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means:

  • You can recover damages even if you were partially at fault
  • Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
  • If you’re 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything

For example, if you’re found 20% at fault and your damages are $1,000,000, you would recover $800,000.

Damage Caps

Texas has no cap on compensatory damages for pain and suffering in personal injury cases. However, there are caps on punitive damages:

  • Greater of 2x economic damages + $750,000 non-economic damages OR
  • $200,000

What Your Victoria County Trucking Accident Case Might Be Worth

Every case is unique, but our experience with Victoria County 18-wheeler accidents gives us insight into potential case values:

Economic Damages

  • Medical expenses (past and future)
  • Lost wages (time missed from work)
  • Lost earning capacity (if you can’t return to your job)
  • Property damage (vehicle repair or replacement)
  • Out-of-pocket expenses (medical equipment, home modifications)

Non-Economic Damages

  • Pain and suffering (physical pain from injuries)
  • Mental anguish (emotional trauma, anxiety, depression)
  • Loss of enjoyment of life (inability to participate in activities)
  • Disfigurement (scarring, visible injuries)
  • Loss of consortium (impact on marriage and family relationships)

Punitive Damages

In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, punitive damages may be available to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct.

Wrongful Death Damages

If your loved one was killed in a Victoria County trucking accident, you may recover:

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

Real Victoria County Trucking Accident Case Examples

While every case is unique, these examples demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

Case 1: Highway 59 Jackknife Accident

A Victoria County family was traveling north on US 59/I-69 when an 18-wheeler suddenly jackknifed across all lanes of traffic. The family’s minivan was struck by the trailer, causing catastrophic injuries. Our investigation revealed:

  • The driver had been on duty for 14 hours without proper breaks
  • The trucking company had a history of hours of service violations
  • The driver’s qualification file was incomplete
  • The cargo was improperly secured

We secured a multi-million dollar settlement that covered all medical expenses, future care needs, and compensated the family for their pain and suffering.

Case 2: Downtown Victoria Underride Collision

A local Victoria resident was driving through an intersection on US 87 when an 18-wheeler making a wide turn cut them off. The car slid underneath the trailer, shearing off the roof. Our investigation found:

  • The trailer had a defective rear underride guard
  • The driver failed to properly signal his turn
  • The trucking company had a history of similar violations
  • The driver’s cell phone records showed texting while driving

The case resulted in a significant settlement that provided for the victim’s lifetime care needs.

Case 3: Highway 77 Rollover Accident

A Victoria County couple was driving to Corpus Christi on US 77 when an 18-wheeler rolled over in front of them. The truck’s cargo spilled onto the highway, causing a multi-vehicle pileup. Our investigation revealed:

  • The cargo was improperly secured, causing the rollover
  • The truck was overloaded beyond legal limits
  • The driver had a history of speeding violations
  • The trucking company had a poor safety record

We secured compensation for all injured parties, including a significant recovery for the couple’s catastrophic injuries.

Common Questions About Victoria County 18-Wheeler Accidents

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Victoria County, take these steps immediately if you’re able:

  1. Call 911 and report the accident
  2. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
  3. Document the scene with photos and video
  4. Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
  5. Collect witness contact information
  6. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
  7. 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, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Victoria County hospitals like Citizens Medical Center and DeTar Healthcare System 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?

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 Victoria County?

IMMEDIATELY – within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence in trucking cases (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Victoria County?

Multiple parties may be liable in trucking accidents:

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

We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

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

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

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

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

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. 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 continuously record operational data – similar to an airplane’s black box but for trucks. 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 Victoria County?

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 Victoria County?

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 Victoria County?

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 Victoria County?

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait this long. 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, 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.

The Attorney911 Advantage: Insider Knowledge of Trucking Company Tactics

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

What We Know About Trucking Company Tactics

1. They Value Claims Based on Formulas
Insurance companies use sophisticated software like Colossus to calculate claim values. These programs systematically undervalue pain and suffering. We know how to counter these lowball offers.

2. They Train Adjusters to Minimize Claims
Adjusters are trained to:

  • Get you to admit fault
  • Downplay your injuries
  • Pressure you to accept quick settlements
  • Use your own words against you

We know all their tactics and how to neutralize them.

3. They Know What Makes Cases Settle
We understand the factors that make insurance companies offer fair settlements:

  • Strong liability evidence
  • Well-documented injuries
  • Credible experts
  • Willingness to go to trial

4. They Destroy Evidence Systematically
Trucking companies know what evidence hurts them and they work to destroy it:

  • Overwriting black box data
  • Deleting dashcam footage
  • “Losing” maintenance records
  • Failing to preserve vehicles

We send spoliation letters immediately to stop this evidence destruction.

Your Next Steps After a Victoria County 18-Wheeler Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Victoria County, time is critical. Every hour you wait, evidence is disappearing and the trucking company is building their defense.

Call Attorney911 Now at 1-888-ATTY-911

Our Victoria County 18-wheeler accident attorneys are available 24/7 to:

  • Provide a free, confidential case evaluation
  • Explain your rights and options
  • Send immediate spoliation letters to preserve evidence
  • Begin building your case while memories are fresh

Remember:

  • Evidence disappears fast – Black box data, dashcam footage, witness memories
  • Trucking companies move quickly – They have rapid-response teams protecting their interests
  • Insurance companies lowball – First offers are always too low
  • Time limits apply – Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations

Why Victoria County Families Trust Attorney911

We’re Local

With offices across Texas, we’re never far from Victoria County. We understand the local courts, judges, and trucking corridors. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.

We’re Experienced

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience fighting trucking companies. He’s secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families just like yours.

We’re Aggressive

We don’t back down from big trucking companies or their insurance carriers. We know how to fight and we know how to win.

We’re Compassionate

We understand what you’re going through. We treat every client like family and fight for the justice you deserve.

We Get Results

While every case is unique, our track record speaks for itself:

  • Multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injury victims
  • Significant recoveries for wrongful death families
  • Successful litigation against major trucking companies
  • 4.9-star Google rating with 251+ reviews

Don’t Let the Trucking Company Win

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