Your Road to Justice Starts Here

When you’re injured in a commercial truck crash, 18 wheeler accident attorneys are your essential guides to justice. These specialized legal professionals are crucial because they steer complex trucking laws, investigate unique evidence like black box data, identify all liable parties, and fight large trucking companies to secure maximum compensation for your injuries.

A crash with a commercial truck isn’t a simple fender bender. These massive vehicles can weigh up to 40 tons, and collisions are often catastrophic. For residents across Texas, from Austin and Cedar Park to Round Rock and beyond, these accidents lead to devastating injuries, overwhelming medical bills, and complex legal battles.

Insurance companies may push for quick, low settlements, but you don’t have to face this alone. Specialized legal help levels the playing field, providing the expertise needed to fight for your rights.

18 wheeler accident attorneys terms explained:

Why You Need Specialized 18 Wheeler Accident Attorneys

After a collision with an 80,000-pound commercial truck, you’re hurt, overwhelmed, and facing mounting medical bills. The trucking company’s legal team often arrives at the scene within hours, not to help, but to protect their interests. This is why you need 18 wheeler accident attorneys who specialize in these complex cases. General personal injury lawyers often lack the specific knowledge to effectively take on the trucking industry.

Specialized knowledge is crucial because truck accidents involve a web of federal and state regulations, governed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), that don’t apply to regular car crashes. Insurance company tactics are also far more aggressive. Their lawyers and investigators work to minimize payouts and shift blame. Without an experienced attorney, you’re at a significant disadvantage.

Our goal is maximizing compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and suffering. We identify all liable parties—the driver, trucking company, maintenance providers, and cargo loaders—to improve your chances of a fair recovery. At Gibbs & Crivelli, we’re leveling the playing field for accident victims across Texas, from Austin to Cedar Park and Round Rock. We don’t let trucking companies intimidate injured people into accepting lowball settlements.

5 Reasons to Hire an Austin Truck Wreck Attorney

The Critical Differences Between Truck and Car Accident Cases

Truck accidents are vastly different from car crashes in their scale and complexity. The table below highlights the key distinctions.

Factor	18-Wheeler Accidents	Standard Car Accidents
Severity of Injuries	Often catastrophic or fatal due to massive size difference	Typically less severe injuries
Number of Liable Parties	Multiple parties: driver, trucking company, maintenance providers, cargo loaders	Usually just the drivers involved
Applicable Laws	FMCSA regulations plus state traffic laws	Standard traffic laws
Types of Evidence	Black box data, driver logs, maintenance records, company policies	Basic police report, witness statements
Insurance Policy Limits	$750,000+ commercial policies	Minimum personal auto policy limits

The severity of injuries is often devastating, leading to traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord damage. The number of liable parties can be extensive, and the applicable laws include complex federal regulations. The types of evidence are also unique, including electronic data that must be preserved quickly. Finally, insurance policy limits are much higher, meaning insurers will fight harder to avoid paying claims.

Navigating the Complex Web of Trucking Regulations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has a comprehensive framework of rules designed to prevent accidents. When these rules are broken, it can be powerful evidence of negligence. Key regulations include:

Hours of Service (HOS) regulations that limit driving time to prevent fatigue. Hours of Service (HOS) regulations.
Maintenance logs that must detail all inspections and repairs. Faulty brakes or worn tires often point to neglected maintenance.
Cargo securement rules to prevent loads from shifting and causing a loss of control.
Driver qualifications that mandate proper licensing (CDL), training, and drug testing.

When a trucking company violates these regulations, it can establish negligence per se, meaning the violation itself is proof of negligence. This shifts the burden to the company to justify their actions. At Gibbs & Crivelli, we use our deep understanding of these rules to build the strongest possible case for clients in Austin, Temple, and across Texas.

Commercial Vehicle Regulations and Safety Standards: How They Impact Your Case

The Anatomy of a Truck Accident Investigation

After an 18-wheeler crash, the trucking company’s rapid response team is often on its way. It’s a race against time to preserve evidence before it can be altered or “lost.” As your 18 wheeler accident attorneys, our team acts swiftly, deploying our own resources and accident reconstruction experts to secure the scene and piece together exactly what happened. This scientific analysis creates a powerful, objective story of the accident that holds up in court. We fight tirelessly for victims in Austin and across our Texas communities, including Cedar Park, Round Rock, Killeen, San Marcos, and Temple, to ensure every piece of the puzzle is used to your advantage.

Common Causes of Devastating 18-Wheeler Wrecks

Many devastating 18-wheeler wrecks are preventable and stem from negligence. As your 18 wheeler accident attorneys, we’ve seen tragic patterns and investigate common causes such as:

Truck driver fatigue from violating hours-of-service rules.
Distracted driving, including cell phone use.
Speeding and failing to account for the truck’s long stopping distance.
Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs.
Poor truck maintenance, leading to equipment failure.
Improperly loaded cargo that destabilizes the vehicle.
Unsafe lane changes and other traffic law violations.

Truck Driver Fatigue: A Leading Cause of Accidents

Austin Poor Truck Maintenance Accident Attorney

How 18 Wheeler Accident Attorneys Establish Liability

Figuring out who is responsible in a truck wreck is complex. Unlike a simple car accident, multiple parties may be at fault. Our job as your 18 wheeler accident attorneys is to uncover every party who contributed to your injuries. This can include:

The truck driver for direct negligence (e.g., fatigue, speeding).
The trucking company for its driver’s actions (Respondeat Superior), negligent hiring, poor training, or pressuring drivers to violate safety rules. Respondeat Superior doctrine
Cargo loaders if shifting cargo caused the crash.
Maintenance companies for failed repairs.
Parts manufacturers for defective equipment.

Identifying all at-fault parties is crucial because it broadens the potential for insurance coverage, increasing your chances of securing the full compensation you deserve. Suing a Trucking Company

Crucial Evidence Your Legal Team Will Secure

Specialized 18 wheeler accident attorneys know what evidence to secure and how to fight companies that try to hide it. Prompt legal action is vital to preserving your rights. Key evidence includes:

Driver’s logbooks (paper or electronic) to check for HOS violations and fatigue.
Electronic Control Module (ECM) / “Black Box” data, which records speed, braking, and steering data from the crash. Event data recorders
Drug and alcohol test results, required by federal law post-accident.
Maintenance records to uncover neglected repairs.
Company hiring and training records to check for negligent hiring.
Witness statements and police reports.
Dispatch records that may show pressure to meet unsafe deadlines.

The Impact of Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations with an Austin Truck Accident Attorney

Securing Your Future: Compensation and the Legal Process

After an 18-wheeler accident, the financial strain from medical bills and lost wages can be as heavy as the physical pain. Our mission as your 18 wheeler accident attorneys is to lift that burden by fighting for every penny of compensation you deserve. We carefully calculate all your damages and pursue them aggressively, whether through skilled negotiation or taking your case to trial, to secure the just compensation you need to rebuild your life.

Settlement vs. Trial: Austin Truck Wreck Attorney

Types of Damages You Can Recover

“Damages” refer to the entire spectrum of your losses. They fall into two main categories:

Economic Damages: These are quantifiable financial losses. They include current and future medical expenses (surgeries, therapy, long-term care), lost income, diminished earning capacity if you can’t return to your old job, and property damage.
Non-Economic Damages: These are subjective losses that impact your quality of life. This includes pain and suffering, emotional distress (anxiety, PTSD), and loss of consortium (impact on your relationship with a spouse). In cases of extreme recklessness, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party.

Common Truck Accident Injuries

Understanding the Texas Statute of Limitations

In Texas, there is a strict time limit to file a personal injury lawsuit. You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file your claim. This is called the “statute of limitations.” If you miss this deadline, you will likely lose your right to pursue compensation forever, no matter how strong your case is. For wrongful death claims, the deadline is also typically two years from the date of death.

Contacting 18 wheeler accident attorneys at Gibbs & Crivelli promptly is crucial. It allows us to preserve evidence and protect your legal rights before time runs out. We are here to help victims across Texas communities like Austin, Killeen, San Marcos, and Georgetown.

Under Texas law, you have a limited time to act
What Can I Do to Protect My Rights After a Truck Accident?

How Much Does It Cost to Hire 18 Wheeler Accident Attorneys?

We understand the financial stress you’re under, which is why we work on a contingency fee basis. This means:

No upfront costs: We cover all case expenses, from investigation to litigation.
You don’t pay unless we win: Our fee is contingent on securing a settlement or verdict for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing in attorney fees.
A percentage of recovery: Our fee is a pre-agreed percentage of the total compensation we recover for you, with no surprises.

This structure ensures everyone has access to top-tier legal representation. You can focus on healing while we fight for your financial future. We offer a free, no-obligation case evaluation to clients across Texas, from Austin and Pflugerville to Harker Heights and Georgetown.

Austin Truck Wreck Attorney: Your Case

What to Do After a Wreck and How to Choose Your Advocate

The moments after an 18-wheeler accident are chaotic and frightening. The steps you take can significantly impact your future legal claim. Protecting your rights starts at the scene, and your next critical decision is choosing the right legal partner. For residents in Texas communities like Killeen, San Marcos, and Temple, finding a trusted advocate is key.

Immediate Steps to Take After an 18-Wheeler Accident

If you are in a truck wreck, prioritize your safety and protect your rights with these steps:

Call 911 and Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Adrenaline can mask injuries, and medical records are vital for your case.
Report the Accident to Police: An official police report provides a valuable record of the incident.
Document the Scene: Use your phone to take photos and videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and the truck’s company name and DOT number.
Exchange Information: Get the driver’s name, contact info, and insurance details, but do not admit fault or apologize.
Get Witness Information: Collect contact details from any bystanders.
Do Not Speak to Insurance Adjusters: The trucking company’s insurer is not on your side. Their goal is to minimize your claim.
Contact a Specialized Truck Accident Attorney: The sooner you have legal representation, the better your rights will be protected.

Steps to Take After a Truck Accident in Austin

What to Look for in a Top Truck Accident Law Firm

Choosing a lawyer for a complex 18-wheeler case is a critical decision. You need a firm with the right qualifications to take on powerful opponents. Look for these key attributes:

Specialized Experience: Seek out lawyers who focus specifically on truck accidents. They will have deep knowledge of federal trucking regulations and industry tactics. NBTA board certification in truck accident law is a rare and valuable credential.
Proven Track Record: The firm should have a history of securing high-value settlements and verdicts in complex truck accident cases.
Trial-Ready: While most cases settle, hiring lawyers known for their courtroom toughness often pressures insurance companies to offer fairer settlements.
Local Texas Expertise: A firm rooted in Texas understands the local laws, courts, and dynamics that can affect your case in communities like Pflugerville, Round Rock, and San Marcos.
Positive Client Testimonials: See what past clients say about the firm’s professionalism, communication, and results.

Austin Trucking Accident Law Firm

Frequently Asked Questions About 18-Wheeler Accident Claims

After a truck accident, it’s normal to have many questions. Here are straightforward answers to some of the most common concerns we hear from our clients.

How long does a truck accident lawsuit take in Texas?

The timeline for a truck accident lawsuit varies depending on the case. A straightforward case might resolve in several months, while more complex cases can take over a year. Factors that influence the timeline include:

Case Complexity: The number of parties involved and the severity of the dispute.
Investigation: Gathering evidence like driver logs, maintenance records, and expert analysis takes time but is crucial for a strong case.
Negotiations: Reaching a fair settlement with insurance companies can be a lengthy process.
Trial: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, taking the case to trial will extend the timeline.

We fight smart, not just fast, for families across Texas—from Austin and Cedar Park to Round Rock and beyond—to ensure the best possible outcome.

Settlement vs. Trial: Austin Truck Wreck Attorney

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Yes. Texas follows a “modified comparative fault” rule, also known as the “51% bar rule.” This means you can still recover damages as long as you are found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident. Your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are awarded $100,000 but found 20% at fault, you would receive $80,000.

However, if you are found 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation. Trucking companies often try to shift blame to victims to cross this threshold. Our expertise is invaluable in protecting your claim from these unfair tactics in communities from Killeen to San Marcos and Temple.

Under Texas law, you can still recover

Legal Implications of Driver Negligence: Austin Truck Wreck Attorney

What is my truck accident case worth?

There is no simple answer or average settlement amount, as every case is unique. Any attorney who gives you a quick case value is not being straightforward. The value of your case depends on many factors, including:

Severity of Injuries: The extent of your physical harm and its long-term impact.
Total Medical Costs: All past, present, and future medical expenses.
Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: Income lost due to the accident and any impact on your future ability to earn.
Impact on Quality of Life: Compensation for pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
Insurance Policy Limits: Trucking companies carry policies from $750,000 to several million dollars, which sets the maximum available recovery.
Strength of Evidence: Clear proof of negligence strengthens your negotiating position.

We carefully evaluate every aspect of your case, often with expert help, to fight for the full value you deserve, whether you’re in Austin, Pflugerville, Georgetown, or any of our Texas communities.

Austin Truck Wreck Attorney: Your Case

Your Texas Advocates for Justice on the Road

After an 18-wheeler accident, you face a daunting battle against powerful trucking and insurance companies. The legal system is complex, and their goal is to pay you as little as possible. You do not have to face this alone.

Partnering with specialized 18 wheeler accident attorneys is essential. You need a team that understands the intricate web of trucking laws, knows how to uncover all liable parties, and has the trial experience to make insurance companies take your claim seriously. Taking swift action is critical, as evidence can disappear and witnesses’ memories can fade.

At Gibbs & Crivelli, we combine deep local Texas knowledge with extensive trial experience. We understand the challenges faced by families across our communities—from the busy streets of Austin to the neighborhoods of Cedar Park, Round Rock, and Georgetown. Whether you’re in Killeen, Temple, Harker Heights, Pflugerville, or San Marcos, we know the roads, the courts, and the local dynamics that impact your case.

Your road to justice starts with a single step. We are here to champion your case with the dedication and personal attention you deserve. Don’t wait and wonder what could have been.

Contact an Austin Truck Accident Lawyer