18-Wheeler Accidents in Wilson County: Your Guide to Justice and Compensation

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Wilson County, Texas, you’re not alone. Our highways and rural roads see heavy truck traffic daily, and when these massive vehicles collide with passenger cars, the results are often catastrophic. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we’re here to help Wilson County families recover what they deserve.

The Wilson County Trucking Landscape

Wilson County sits at the crossroads of major Texas trucking corridors. I-10 runs through the northern part of the county, connecting San Antonio to Houston and beyond, while US-87 and State Highway 123 serve as vital north-south routes. Our local economy, with its agricultural roots and growing distribution centers, means we see significant truck traffic year-round.

From the rolling hills of Stockdale to the historic streets of Floresville, our county’s mix of rural roads and major highways creates unique challenges for truck drivers and passenger vehicles alike. When accidents happen here, they often involve:

• Trucks navigating tight turns on rural roads
• High-speed collisions on I-10
• Intersection accidents in Floresville and La Vernia
• Agricultural equipment sharing roads with commercial trucks
• Oil field traffic from the Eagle Ford Shale region

Why Wilson County Truck Accidents Are Different

Trucking accidents in Wilson County present unique challenges compared to urban areas:

1. Longer Emergency Response Times: Our rural nature means first responders may take longer to reach accident scenes, making immediate medical attention even more critical.

2. Limited Medical Resources: While we have excellent local healthcare providers, severe injuries often require transport to San Antonio trauma centers, adding complexity to your medical care and recovery.

3. Local Court System: Cases are typically filed in the Wilson County Courthouse in Floresville. Our team knows the local judges, procedures, and what it takes to build a strong case for Wilson County juries.

4. Agricultural and Oil Field Traffic: Our county’s economic drivers create specialized trucking needs that can contribute to accidents, from overloaded agricultural vehicles to oil field equipment.

5. Seasonal Traffic Patterns: Harvest seasons and oil field activity create fluctuations in truck traffic that can increase accident risks during certain times of the year.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Wilson County

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Truck drivers in Wilson County often face long hauls between San Antonio and Houston or other major cities. The pressure to meet tight delivery deadlines can lead to dangerous hours-of-service violations. Federal regulations limit drivers to:

• 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• A 14-hour on-duty window
• Mandatory 30-minute breaks after 8 hours of driving
• 60/70 hour weekly limits

Despite these rules, we frequently see drivers pushing beyond these limits. Fatigued driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving, impairing reaction times and decision-making.

Improper Cargo Loading and Securement

Wilson County’s agricultural economy means we see many trucks transporting produce, livestock, and equipment. When cargo isn’t properly secured, it can shift during transit, causing:

• Rollover accidents when loads become unbalanced
• Cargo spills that create hazards for other drivers
• Sudden weight shifts that make trucks difficult to control

Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) specify exact requirements for cargo securement, but violations are common when companies prioritize speed over safety.

Brake Failures and Poor Maintenance

Our county’s hilly terrain puts extra stress on truck braking systems. When maintenance is deferred, we often see:

• Worn brake pads that can’t stop heavy loads
• Improperly adjusted brakes that don’t engage properly
• Brake fade on long descents
• Complete brake system failures

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes nationwide, and our experience in Wilson County confirms this statistic.

Distracted and Impaired Driving

Despite strict regulations, we still encounter truck drivers who:

• Use cell phones or text while driving
• Eat, drink, or adjust navigation systems while behind the wheel
• Drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Take prescription medications that impair driving ability

Speeding and Aggressive Driving

The open roads of Wilson County can tempt drivers to exceed speed limits, especially when facing tight delivery schedules. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases stopping distances, making accidents more likely and more severe.

Wide Turn Accidents

Our county’s mix of rural roads and small-town intersections creates frequent wide-turn scenarios. When truck drivers swing wide to make right turns, they can:

• Create gaps that smaller vehicles try to fill
• Collide with vehicles in adjacent lanes
• Strike pedestrians or cyclists in crosswalks

Underride Accidents

One of the most deadly types of truck accidents, underride collisions occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler. These accidents often result in:

• Decapitation
• Catastrophic head and neck injuries
• Death of vehicle occupants

While rear underride guards are required by federal law, side underride guards are not, making side underride accidents particularly dangerous.

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Wilson County Truck Accidents

The sheer size and weight of 18-wheelers (up to 80,000 pounds) compared to passenger vehicles (typically 3,000-4,000 pounds) means truck accidents often result in life-altering injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Even with airbags and seatbelts, the force of a truck collision can cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe, permanent brain damage.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis. We’ve represented Wilson County residents who became paraplegic or quadriplegic after truck accidents, facing lifetime medical costs exceeding $5 million.

Amputations

The crushing forces in truck accidents can sever limbs at the scene or require surgical amputation later. Prosthetics and rehabilitation add to the physical and emotional challenges.

Severe Burns

When fuel tanks rupture in truck accidents, victims can suffer severe burns requiring multiple skin graft surgeries and resulting in permanent disfigurement.

Internal Organ Damage

The blunt force trauma from a truck collision can cause internal bleeding, organ rupture, and other life-threatening injuries that may not be immediately apparent.

Wrongful Death

Tragically, many Wilson County truck accidents result in fatalities. When a loved one is killed due to a trucking company’s negligence, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Wilson County Truck Accident?

Trucking accidents are complex because multiple parties may share responsibility. In Wilson County cases, we investigate and pursue claims against:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be liable for negligent actions like:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, texting)
• Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
• Impaired driving (drugs or alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Violating traffic laws

The Trucking Company

Trucking companies can be held directly liable for:

• Negligent Hiring: Failing to properly vet drivers or hiring those with poor safety records
• Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training for drivers
• Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance and compliance
• Negligent Maintenance: Deferring vehicle maintenance to save costs
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate hours-of-service regulations
• Vicarious Liability: Responsibility for their drivers’ actions within the scope of employment

Cargo Owners and Loading Companies

When improperly loaded or secured cargo contributes to an accident, we may pursue claims against:

• The company that loaded the cargo
• The cargo owner who provided loading instructions
• Third-party logistics providers

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

If a defective vehicle component contributed to the accident, we may file product liability claims against:

• The truck manufacturer
• Trailer manufacturers
• Parts manufacturers (brakes, tires, steering components, etc.)

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers can be liable for:

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

Freight Brokers

Freight 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 some cases, government agencies may share liability for:

• Dangerous road design
• Inadequate signage
• Failure to maintain roads
• Improper work zone setup

The Evidence We Preserve in Wilson County Trucking Cases

Evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. The trucking company’s rapid-response team begins protecting their interests within hours of an accident. In Wilson County cases, we immediately:

Send Spoliation Letters

Within 24-48 hours, we send formal legal notices demanding preservation of all evidence, including:

• ECM/Black Box data (can be overwritten in 30 days)
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
• GPS and telematics data
• Dashcam footage
• Dispatch communications
• Cell phone records
• Driver Qualification Files
• Maintenance records
• Inspection reports
• Drug and alcohol test results
• The physical truck and trailer

Obtain Critical Electronic Data

Modern trucks record extensive operational data:

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened and can be the key to proving your case.

Secure Physical Evidence

We work to preserve:

• The truck and trailer before repairs
• Failed components for expert analysis
• Tire remnants if a blowout occurred
• Cargo and securement devices
• Any other physical evidence from the scene

Document the Scene

Our team or accident reconstruction experts document:

• Skid marks and road conditions
• Vehicle damage patterns
• Intersection geometry
• Traffic control devices
• Weather conditions at the time

Interview Witnesses

We locate and interview:

• Eyewitnesses to the accident
• First responders
• Other drivers who may have seen the truck’s behavior before the crash
• Employees of the trucking company who may have knowledge of safety violations

The Wilson County Trucking Case Process

Immediate Steps (First 48 Hours)

1. Medical Treatment: Your health is our first priority. Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.
2. Evidence Preservation: We send spoliation letters to preserve all electronic and physical evidence.
3. Initial Investigation: Our team begins gathering basic information about the accident.

First 30 Days

1. Detailed Investigation: We obtain police reports, interview witnesses, and begin collecting records from the trucking company.
2. Medical Documentation: We help you document your injuries and connect you with appropriate medical providers.
3. Insurance Notification: We notify all relevant insurance companies of our representation.

30-90 Days

1. Expert Retention: We retain accident reconstruction experts, medical experts, and other specialists as needed.
2. Record Collection: We pursue subpoenas for all relevant records from the trucking company and other parties.
3. Liability Analysis: Our team analyzes all evidence to determine liability and identify all potentially responsible parties.

3-6 Months

1. Demand Preparation: We prepare a comprehensive demand package outlining your damages and the legal basis for your claim.
2. Negotiations: We begin settlement negotiations with the trucking company’s insurance representatives.
3. Litigation Decision: If fair settlement offers aren’t made, we prepare to file a lawsuit.

6-24 Months (If Litigation Is Required)

1. Lawsuit Filing: We file your lawsuit in the appropriate Wilson County court.
2. Discovery: Both sides exchange information through written discovery, document production, and depositions.
3. Motions: We file legal motions to strengthen your case and respond to defense motions.
4. Mediation: Most cases settle at mediation, where a neutral third party helps facilitate settlement discussions.
5. Trial: If necessary, we take your case to trial before a Wilson County jury.

What Your Wilson County Truck Accident Case Might Be Worth

Case values in Wilson County trucking accidents vary widely based on the specific circumstances, but our experience shows that serious truck accident cases often result in significant compensation. Factors that affect case value include:

Economic Damages

• Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs for treatment of your injuries
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to time off work during recovery
• Lost Earning Capacity: Reduction in your ability to earn income in the future
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle and other damaged property
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, etc.
• Life Care Costs: Ongoing care needs for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain from your injuries
• Mental Anguish: Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression
• Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed
• Disfigurement: Scarring or other visible injuries
• Loss of Consortium: Impact on your relationship with your spouse
• Physical Impairment: Reduced physical capabilities

Punitive Damages

In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, Texas law allows for punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. For example, if a trucking company knowingly hired a dangerous driver or systematically falsified hours-of-service records, punitive damages may be available.

Recent Wilson County Trucking Accident Cases

While we can’t discuss specific Attorney911 cases due to confidentiality, recent trucking accidents in our area demonstrate the risks:

• In 2023, a fatal accident on US-87 near Floresville involved a truck that crossed the center line, resulting in multiple fatalities.
• A 2022 accident on I-10 near Seguin involved a jackknifed truck that blocked all lanes, causing a multi-vehicle pileup.
• Several accidents in recent years have occurred at the intersection of SH-97 and US-87 in Floresville, a known trouble spot.

Nationally, trucking accident verdicts have been increasing dramatically:

• $462 million verdict in Missouri (2024) for an underride accident
• $160 million verdict in Alabama (2024) for a rollover that left a driver quadriplegic
• $730 million verdict in Texas (2021) for a fatal oversize load accident

These verdicts demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable for their negligence.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Wilson County Trucking Case

When you’re facing the aftermath of a serious truck accident in Wilson County, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team with specific experience fighting the trucking industry. Here’s what sets us apart:

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for truck accident victims since 1998. He’s handled cases against major carriers like Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS, as well as regional and local trucking companies.

Federal Court Experience

Ralph is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, which is crucial for interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

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

Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions for truck accident victims across Texas, including:

• $5+ million for a brain injury caused by a falling log at a logging company
• $3.8+ million for a car accident victim who lost a leg due to medical complications
• $2.5+ million for a truck crash victim
• Millions for families in wrongful death cases

Local Wilson County Knowledge

We understand our county’s unique trucking landscape, from the challenges of I-10 to the rural roads of Stockdale and La Vernia. We know the local courts, judges, and what it takes to build a strong case for Wilson County juries.

Bilingual Services

With our county’s growing Hispanic community, we offer fluent Spanish-language services through Lupe Peña. Hablamos Español.

24/7 Availability

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. We’re available 24/7 to start protecting your rights immediately.

What to Do After a Truck Accident in Wilson County

If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Wilson County, take these steps to protect your health and your legal rights:

1. Call 911 Immediately: Report the accident and request medical assistance. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent.

2. Seek Medical Attention: Go to the emergency room or urgent care immediately. In Wilson County, you may be treated at local facilities or transported to San Antonio trauma centers. Document all injuries, even if they seem minor.

3. Document the Scene: If you’re able, take photos and videos of:

   • All vehicles involved (including license plates)
   • Vehicle damage (inside and out)
   • The accident scene (road conditions, skid marks, traffic signs)
   • Your injuries
   • Any visible cargo or securement issues

4. Collect Information:

   • Truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
   • Trucking company name and DOT number (usually on the truck door)
   • Insurance information for all parties
   • Names and contact information for witnesses

5. Avoid Giving Statements: Do not give recorded statements to any insurance company without consulting an attorney first. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize your claim.

6. Preserve Evidence: Keep all medical records, accident-related documents, and damaged property. Do not repair or dispose of your vehicle until it’s been documented.

7. Contact Attorney911 Immediately: Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) as soon as possible. The sooner we can begin our investigation, the better we can preserve critical evidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wilson County Truck Accidents

How long do I have to file a truck accident lawsuit in Wilson County?

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner we can begin our investigation, the stronger your case will be.

What if the truck driver says I caused the accident?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation as long as you were not more than 50% responsible. Our job is to investigate thoroughly and prove what really happened. We often find that drivers’ statements don’t match the objective evidence from the truck’s electronic systems.

How much is my Wilson County truck accident case worth?

Every case is unique, but trucking accident cases typically have higher values than regular car accidents because:

• Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million)
• Injuries are often more severe
• Multiple parties may share liability
• Punitive damages may be available in cases of gross negligence

We’ve seen Wilson County cases settle for amounts ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars, depending on the severity of injuries and degree of negligence.

Should I accept the insurance company’s settlement offer?

Almost never. Insurance companies often make lowball settlement offers quickly after an accident, before you understand the full extent of your injuries. These offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Even if a trucking company goes out of business, there may still be insurance coverage available. We investigate all potential sources of recovery, including:

• The trucking company’s liability insurance
• Umbrella or excess insurance policies
• Cargo insurance
• Trailer interchange coverage
• Owner-operator policies
• Freight broker insurance

How long will my case 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.

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

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

What if I was injured in a truck accident while working?

If you were injured in a truck accident while working, you may have both a workers’ compensation claim and a personal injury claim against the trucking company. We can help you navigate both systems to maximize your recovery.

Can I still recover compensation if I wasn’t wearing a seatbelt?

Yes. Texas law allows you to recover compensation even if you weren’t wearing a seatbelt. However, your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault for not wearing a seatbelt.

What if the truck was carrying hazardous materials?

Hazmat trucking accidents present additional risks and legal considerations. Trucking companies carrying hazardous materials are required to carry $5 million in insurance coverage. We have experience handling hazmat cases and can help you navigate the additional complexities.

Wilson County Trucking Accident Resources

Local Medical Facilities

• Connally Memorial Medical Center (Floresville): (830) 393-8888
• South Texas Regional Medical Center (Jourdanton): (830) 769-3515
• Methodist Hospital (San Antonio): (210) 575-4000
• University Hospital (San Antonio): (210) 358-4000

Law Enforcement Agencies

• Wilson County Sheriff’s Office: (830) 393-2535
• Floresville Police Department: (830) 393-4343
• La Vernia Police Department: (830) 779-6677
• Stockdale Police Department: (830) 996-3232
• Texas Department of Public Safety: (830) 372-1234

Texas Department of Transportation

• TxDOT San Antonio District: (210) 615-5800
• Crash Reports: https://cris.dot.state.tx.us/

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

• FMCSA Safety Records: https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov/
• FMCSA Complaint Hotline: 1-888-368-7238

Don’t Wait – Your Wilson County Trucking Case Needs Immediate Action

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Wilson County, time is of the essence. Critical evidence is disappearing every hour. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests.

At Attorney911, we’re ready to fight for you. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows every tactic the trucking company will use against you. We have the experience, resources, and local knowledge to build a strong case for maximum compensation.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and start protecting your evidence immediately. Remember, we work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.

“The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect them. You deserve the same level of representation. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911. Our Wilson County trucking accident attorneys are ready to fight for you.”

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.