18-Wheeler Accidents in Washington County: Your Complete Legal Guide

Every year, thousands of families across Texas face the devastating aftermath of 18-wheeler accidents. When these massive commercial vehicles collide with passenger cars, the results are often catastrophic. If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident on Washington County’s highways, you need experienced legal representation that understands both the federal trucking regulations and the unique challenges of our local roads.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of the largest trucking companies in America. With offices serving Washington County and federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, we’re uniquely positioned to handle your trucking accident case.

Why Washington County’s Trucking Corridors Are So Dangerous

Washington County sits at a critical junction of Texas’s freight transportation network. Our county’s position along major highways creates unique risks for local drivers:

• US Highway 290 – The primary route connecting Houston to Austin carries heavy truck traffic, particularly from distribution centers and agricultural shipments
• State Highway 36 – A major north-south corridor that sees significant commercial traffic, especially from the Brenham area
• FM 390 and FM 1155 – Rural farm-to-market roads where large trucks mix with local traffic, often without adequate passing zones
• Distribution centers and warehouses – Washington County’s growing logistics sector means more trucks entering and exiting local roads

These corridors see a constant flow of:

• Produce trucks from local farms
• Oilfield equipment and supplies
• Retail merchandise shipments
• Livestock transport
• Heavy machinery and construction equipment

The combination of high-speed interstate traffic and rural roads with limited shoulders creates dangerous conditions that require experienced local representation.

The Devastating Impact of 18-Wheeler Accidents

When an 80,000-pound commercial truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the physics are unforgiving. The size and weight disparity means:

• A fully loaded 18-wheeler is 20-25 times heavier than your car
• At highway speeds, a truck needs nearly two football fields to stop
• The force of impact can be catastrophic, even at moderate speeds

Common injuries we see in Washington County trucking accidents include:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

• Concussions and mild TBI (often with delayed symptoms)
• Moderate to severe brain damage requiring lifelong care
• Cognitive impairments affecting memory, concentration, and personality

Spinal Cord Injuries & Paralysis

• Complete or incomplete spinal cord damage
• Paraplegia (loss of lower body function)
• Quadriplegia (loss of all four limbs)
• Partial paralysis with varying degrees of impairment

Amputations & Crush Injuries

• Traumatic limb loss at the accident scene
• Surgical amputations due to severe damage
• Crush injuries requiring reconstructive surgery

Severe Burns

• Fuel tank ruptures causing fire
• Chemical burns from hazardous cargo
• Electrical burns from damaged wiring
• Friction burns from road contact

Internal Organ Damage

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

Wrongful Death

• Fatalities from catastrophic impact forces
• Decapitation in underride collisions
• Multiple fatalities in multi-vehicle pileups

These injuries often result in:

• Hundreds of thousands in medical bills
• Permanent disability and inability to work
• Lifelong care needs requiring specialized facilities
• Emotional trauma for both victims and families

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Washington County

Our experience handling Washington County trucking cases has revealed several recurring causes:

Driver Fatigue & Hours of Service Violations

Federal regulations limit commercial drivers 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

Despite these rules, we frequently find:

• Drivers exceeding daily limits to meet delivery deadlines
• Falsified logbooks (even with ELDs)
• Pressure from dispatchers to “make the run”
• Drivers working multiple jobs to make ends meet

How we prove fatigue violations:

• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data showing driving hours
• Dispatch records showing unrealistic delivery schedules
• Cell phone records showing late-night communications
• Fuel receipts and toll records confirming continuous operation
• Driver admissions during depositions

Improper Cargo Loading & Securement

Washington County’s agricultural and industrial base means we see frequent cargo-related accidents:

• Overloaded trucks exceeding weight limits
• Improperly secured loads using insufficient tiedowns
• Unbalanced cargo creating rollover risks
• Liquid loads that slosh and shift during turns
• Hazardous materials improperly contained

Federal cargo securement regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) require:

• Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured
• Working load limits must match cargo weight
• Specific requirements for different cargo types (logs, coils, machinery, etc.)

How we prove cargo violations:

• Loading dock records and bills of lading
• Securement equipment inspection
• Weight station records showing overweight vehicles
• Accident reconstruction showing cargo shift
• Maintenance records for securement devices

Brake Failures & Maintenance Neglect

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

• Worn brake pads/shoes not replaced
• Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
• Air brake system leaks reducing stopping power
• Contaminated brake fluid reducing effectiveness
• Overheated brakes (brake fade) on long descents
• Failure to conduct pre-trip inspections

Federal regulations require:

• Systematic inspection and maintenance (49 CFR § 396.3)
• Driver pre-trip and post-trip inspections (49 CFR § 396.13)
• Annual comprehensive inspections (49 CFR § 396.17)

How we prove brake violations:

• Maintenance records showing deferred repairs
• Out-of-service inspection reports
• ECM data showing brake application timing
• Post-crash brake system analysis
• Driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs)

Tire Blowouts & Road Debris

Washington County’s mix of highway and rural roads creates tire hazards:

• Underinflated tires causing overheating
• Worn or aging tires not replaced
• Road debris from agricultural equipment
• Heat buildup on long hauls
• Improper tire matching on dual wheels

Federal regulations require:

• Minimum tread depth (4/32″ on steer tires, 2/32″ on others)
• No visible cord or fabric
• No audible air leaks
• No bulges or cuts in the sidewall

How we prove tire violations:

• Tire maintenance and replacement records
• Failed tire for expert analysis
• Road condition reports
• Weather data at time of accident
• Driver pre-trip inspection records

Distracted & Impaired Driving

Despite strict regulations, we still see:

• Cell phone use (texting, talking, GPS)
• In-cab electronics (dispatch systems, CB radios)
• Eating and drinking while driving
• Alcohol impairment (0.04% BAC limit for commercial drivers)
• Drug impairment (illegal, prescription, and over-the-counter)
• Medical conditions (sleep apnea, diabetes, heart conditions)

Federal regulations prohibit:

• Hand-held phone use while driving (49 CFR § 392.82)
• Texting while driving (49 CFR § 392.80)
• Alcohol use within 4 hours of duty (49 CFR § 392.5)
• Possession of alcohol while on duty

How we prove distraction/impairment:

• Cell phone records showing usage at time of crash
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Witness statements about driver behavior
• Dashcam footage
• Dispatch communications showing inattention

Who Is Liable for Your Washington County Trucking Accident?

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

1. The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

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

2. The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets (highest insurance limits). They can be liable for:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

• The driver was an employee (not independent contractor)
• Acting within the scope of employment
• Performing job duties when accident occurred

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. 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. 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, 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

The Critical 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

Evidence in trucking accident cases disappears FAST. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act quickly, critical evidence will be lost forever.

What Evidence Disappears Quickly?

Our Immediate Action Plan

When you call Attorney911 after a Washington County trucking accident, we spring into action immediately:

Within 24 Hours:

• Send formal spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties
• Demand preservation of ECM, ELD, and all electronic data
• Notify trucking company of our representation
• Begin collecting witness statements
• Photograph accident scene if possible

Within 48 Hours:

• 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

Within 7 Days:

• Deploy accident reconstruction expert to scene
• Obtain police crash report
• Photograph client injuries with medical documentation
• Photograph all vehicles before they are repaired or scrapped
• Identify all potentially liable parties
• Begin medical care facilitation

Types of Trucking Accidents We Handle in Washington County

Our firm has experience with all types of commercial vehicle accidents:

Jackknife Accidents

• Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
• Speeding, especially on curves
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing)
• Improperly loaded or unbalanced cargo
• Brake system failures or worn brakes

Underride Collisions

• Rear underride: Vehicle strikes back of trailer, often at intersections or during sudden stops
• Side underride: Vehicle impacts side of trailer during lane changes, turns, or at intersections

Common causes:

• Inadequate or missing underride guards
• Worn or damaged rear impact guards
• Truck sudden stops without adequate warning
• Low visibility conditions (night, fog, rain)
• Truck lane changes into blind spots
• Wide right turns cutting off traffic

Rollover Accidents

• Speeding on curves, ramps, or turns
• Taking turns too sharply at excessive speed
• Improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo
• Liquid cargo “slosh” shifting center of gravity
• Overcorrection after tire blowout or lane departure
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reaction
• Road design defects (inadequate banking on curves)

Blind Spot Collisions (“No-Zone” Accidents)

The four dangerous blind spots:

1. Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
2. Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
3. Left Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward
4. Right Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward (largest blind spot)

Common causes:

• Failure to check mirrors before lane changes
• Improperly adjusted or damaged mirrors
• Inadequate mirror checking during sustained maneuvers
• Driver distraction during lane changes
• Failure to use turn signals

Tire Blowout Accidents

• Underinflated tires causing overheating
• Overloaded vehicles exceeding tire capacity
• Worn or aging tires not replaced
• Road debris punctures
• Manufacturing defects
• Improper tire matching on dual wheels
• Heat buildup on long hauls
• Inadequate pre-trip tire inspections

Brake Failure Accidents

• Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
• Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
• Air brake system leaks or failures
• Overheated brakes (brake fade) on long descents
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Defective brake components
• Failure to conduct pre-trip brake inspections
• Deferred maintenance to save costs

Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents

• Cargo Shift: Load moves during transit, destabilizing truck
• Cargo Spill: Load falls from truck onto roadway
• Hazmat Spill: Hazardous materials leak or spill

Common causes:

• Inadequate tiedowns (insufficient number or strength)
• Improper loading distribution
• Failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats
• Tiedown failure due to wear or damage
• Overloading beyond securement capacity
• Failure to re-inspect cargo during trip
• Loose tarps allowing cargo shift

Head-On Collisions

• Driver fatigue causing lane departure
• Driver falling asleep at the wheel
• Driver distraction (phone, GPS, dispatch)
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
• Medical emergency (heart attack, seizure)
• Overcorrection after running off road
• Passing on two-lane roads
• Wrong-way entry onto divided highways

Additional Accident Types

• T-Bone/Intersection Accidents: Truck fails to yield or runs red light
• Sideswipe Accidents: Truck changes lanes into occupied space
• Override Accidents: Truck drives over smaller vehicle in front
• Lost Wheel/Detached Trailer: Wheel or trailer separates during operation
• Runaway Truck Accidents: Brake fade on long descents, failure to use runaway ramps

Washington County-Specific Trucking Challenges

Our local knowledge gives us an advantage in handling Washington County trucking cases:

Unique Road Conditions

• Rural farm-to-market roads with limited shoulders and passing zones
• Highway 290 congestion where trucks mix with commuter traffic
• Agricultural equipment sharing roads with commercial trucks
• Seasonal harvest traffic increasing truck volume during peak seasons
• Oilfield equipment transport creating oversize load hazards
• Brenham’s historic downtown with narrow streets and limited truck routes

Weather-Related Hazards

• Heavy rain and flooding common in spring and fall
• Morning fog reducing visibility on rural roads
• Ice on bridges during rare winter weather events
• High winds affecting high-profile trailers
• Heat-related tire blowouts during summer months

Local Industry-Specific Risks

• Agricultural trucking: Produce haulers, livestock transport, equipment movement
• Oilfield logistics: Heavy equipment, hazardous materials, oversize loads
• Retail distribution: Warehouse traffic from growing logistics sector
• Manufacturing supply chains: Just-in-time delivery pressures
• Local events: Increased truck traffic during festivals and rodeos

The Attorney911 Advantage: Why Choose Our Firm

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a legal team with:

1. Proven Experience with Trucking Cases

• 25+ years handling commercial vehicle accident cases
• Multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements
• Experience against major trucking companies (Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, UPS)
• Federal court experience for interstate trucking cases

2. Insider Knowledge of Insurance Tactics

“Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years on the other side. He watched adjusters minimize claims. He saw how they train their people to lowball victims. Now he exposes those tactics and uses his insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation.”

This gives us a unique advantage in:

• Knowing how insurance companies value claims
• Understanding adjuster training and tactics
• Recognizing when they’re bluffing or will settle
• Countering every tactic they use against you
• Maximizing your recovery based on their own formulas

3. Immediate Evidence Preservation

• We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
• We demand immediate download of ECM and ELD data
• We preserve all physical evidence before it’s destroyed
• We have accident reconstruction experts on call

4. Comprehensive Investigation Resources

• Accident reconstruction specialists
• Medical experts to document injuries
• Vocational experts to calculate lost earning capacity
• Economic experts to determine present value of damages
• Life care planners for catastrophic injuries
• FMCSA regulation experts to identify violations

5. Local Washington County Knowledge

• We know the local courts and judges
• We understand the unique challenges of Washington County roads
• We’re familiar with local trucking patterns and industries
• We have relationships with local medical providers
• We understand the jury pool in Washington County

6. Bilingual Services for Our Community

“At Attorney911, we understand that many trucking accident victims in Washington County 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.”

7. Personal Attention You Won’t Get at Big Firms

“Many of our clients come to us after being treated like just another case number at the big billboard firms. At Attorney911, you’re family. We give you our personal cell numbers. You get direct access to your attorney. And we fight for every dime you deserve.”

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

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Washington County

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

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
3. Document the scene – Take photos and video of:
   • All vehicle damage (inside and out)
   • The accident scene from multiple angles
   • Road conditions, skid marks, debris
   • Traffic signals and signs
   • 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 – Admit fault, apologize, or give statements to anyone except police

In the Following Days

1. Follow up with medical treatment – Attend all appointments and follow doctor’s orders
2. Document everything – Keep records of:
   • Medical visits and treatments
   • Symptoms and pain levels
   • Time missed from work
   • How injuries affect daily activities
3. Do NOT – Give recorded statements to any insurance company
4. Do NOT – Post about the accident on social media
5. Contact Attorney911 – Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation

How We Build Your Washington County Trucking Case

Our comprehensive approach to trucking accident cases includes:

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 client injuries with medical documentation
• Photograph all vehicles before they are 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
• Secure surveillance footage from nearby businesses

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 (creates leverage in negotiations)

Understanding Your Damages

Trucking accident cases involve complex damage calculations. We pursue full compensation for:

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

• Medical Expenses – Past, present, and future medical costs including:
  • Emergency room treatment
  • Hospitalization
  • Surgeries
  • Rehabilitation
  • Physical therapy
  • Medications
  • Medical equipment
  • Home modifications
  • Long-term care
• 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 you once enjoyed
• 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:

• Two times economic damages plus non-economic damages (capped at $750,000)
• $200,000

Washington County Trucking Accident Statistics

While we don’t have Washington County-specific statistics without verification, statewide Texas data provides context for the risks:

• Texas has the highest number of fatal large truck crashes in the nation
• In 2022, there were 643 fatal crashes involving large trucks in Texas
• 73% of fatalities in truck crashes were occupants of other vehicles
• 125,000+ people are injured in truck crashes annually nationwide
• 5,100+ people are killed in truck crashes annually nationwide
• Fatigue is a factor in 31% of fatal truck crashes
• Brake problems contribute to 29% of truck crashes
• Speeding is a factor in 23% of fatal truck crashes

The most dangerous trucking corridors in Texas include:

1. I-10 (Houston to San Antonio to El Paso)
2. I-35 (Mexico border through San Antonio, Austin, Dallas to Oklahoma)
3. I-45 (Houston to Dallas corridor)
4. I-20 (West Texas through Dallas to Louisiana)
5. US-59/I-69 (Houston to East Texas)

Washington County’s proximity to these major corridors means our local roads see significant commercial truck traffic.

Common Insurance Company Tactics (And How We Counter Them)

Trucking companies and their insurers use sophisticated tactics to minimize claims. Our experience – including having a former insurance defense attorney on staff – gives us insider knowledge of these strategies:

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington County Trucking Accidents

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Washington County, 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 Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal assistance

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. Washington County hospitals like Washington County Memorial Hospital 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 (inside and out)
• 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?

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 Washington 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 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 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 Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington County?

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.

Washington County Trucking Accident Resources

Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers

• Washington County Memorial Hospital – Brenham
• St. Joseph Regional Health Center – Bryan (Level III Trauma Center)
• College Station Medical Center – College Station
• Scott & White Medical Center – Temple (Level I Trauma Center)

Washington County Law Enforcement Agencies

• Washington County Sheriff’s Office – (979) 277-6253
• Brenham Police Department – (979) 337-7337
• Texas Department of Public Safety – (979) 830-5120

Washington County Courts

• Washington County District Court – (979) 277-6211
• Washington County Court at Law – (979) 277-6213
• Brenham Municipal Court – (979) 337-7530

Trucking Safety Resources

• Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Crash Records – https://www.txdot.gov/
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) – https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/
• FMCSA Safety and Fitness Electronic Records (SAFER) System – https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov/
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – https://www.nhtsa.gov/

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Washington County, don’t wait – evidence disappears quickly. Call Attorney911 now for a free, no-obligation consultation.

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

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

“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

Our Washington County trucking accident attorneys are available 24/7 to help you. Call now before critical evidence disappears. We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.