18-Wheeler Accidents in Glenn Heights: Your Complete Legal Guide

Every year, thousands of families across Texas face life-altering consequences from 18-wheeler accidents. If you or someone you love has been injured in a trucking accident in Glenn Heights, you’re not just dealing with physical pain – you’re facing a complex legal battle against powerful trucking companies with teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim. At Attorney911, we level the playing field.

Why Glenn Heights Trucking Accidents Are Different

Glenn Heights sits at a critical juncture in North Texas’s transportation network. With I-35E running through the city and I-20 just minutes away, our community sees significant commercial truck traffic. The distribution centers and warehouses along these corridors mean that Glenn Heights residents face unique risks:

• Heavy truck traffic on I-35E between Dallas and Denton
• Increased truck volume near the Glenn Heights Business Park
• Commercial vehicles accessing local roads from major highways
• Trucks servicing nearby distribution centers
• Increased risk during peak commuting hours

These factors make Glenn Heights particularly vulnerable to trucking accidents. When these massive vehicles collide with passenger cars, the results are often catastrophic.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents

The physics of trucking accidents make them unlike typical car crashes. Consider these facts:

• A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds
• The average passenger car weighs about 4,000 pounds
• That means the truck is 20 times heavier than your vehicle
• At 65 mph, an 80,000-pound truck requires approximately 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields
• In a collision, the force of impact is proportional to the mass difference

This massive disparity in size and weight means that when an 18-wheeler hits a passenger vehicle, the occupants of the smaller vehicle often suffer severe, life-changing injuries.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Glenn Heights

Our experience handling trucking cases in Glenn Heights and throughout North Texas has revealed several recurring causes:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Federal regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate without rest:

• Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• Cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour on duty
• 30-minute break required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70 hour weekly limits

Despite these regulations, we frequently find that trucking companies pressure drivers to exceed these limits to meet delivery deadlines. Fatigued driving is a leading cause of trucking accidents, and it’s completely preventable.

Distracted Driving

With the proliferation of smartphones and in-cab technology, distracted driving has become a major issue:

• Texting while driving
• Using GPS navigation systems
• Checking dispatch messages
• Eating or drinking while driving
• Adjusting in-cab entertainment systems

Federal regulations specifically prohibit hand-held mobile phone use while driving commercial vehicles. When we investigate trucking accidents, we always subpoena cell phone records to check for violations.

Improper Maintenance and Equipment Failures

Trucking companies are required to systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles. Common maintenance failures we encounter include:

• Worn or improperly adjusted brakes
• Bald or underinflated tires
• Defective steering components
• Malfunctioning lights and signals
• Faulty coupling devices
• Inoperative safety systems

When we take on a trucking accident case in Glenn Heights, one of our first steps is to obtain the truck’s complete maintenance records to identify any negligent maintenance practices.

Cargo Securement Issues

Improperly loaded or secured cargo can cause accidents in several ways:

• Shifting loads that destabilize the vehicle
• Overweight loads that exceed vehicle capacity
• Unbalanced loads that affect handling
• Falling cargo that strikes other vehicles
• Improperly secured hazardous materials

Federal regulations specify exact requirements for cargo securement, including the number and strength of tiedowns required based on cargo type and weight. We frequently find violations of these regulations in our cases.

Driver Qualification Issues

Trucking companies must maintain complete Driver Qualification Files for every driver, including:

• Employment application and background check
• Driving record from state licensing authority
• Road test certificate
• Medical examiner’s certificate
• Annual driving record review
• Previous employer inquiries
• Drug and alcohol test records

When we investigate trucking accidents, we subpoena these files to check for any red flags in the driver’s history that the company should have identified.

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Glenn Heights Trucking Cases

The injuries we see in 18-wheeler accident cases are often far more severe than those in typical car accidents:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

TBI occurs when the brain is violently shaken or struck against the skull. In trucking accidents, this often happens when:

• The head strikes the steering wheel, dashboard, or window
• The brain impacts the inside of the skull from sudden deceleration
• Flying debris strikes the head

TBI can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage with lifelong consequences. Symptoms may include:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory loss and confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes and personality shifts
• Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
• Speech difficulties
• Cognitive impairment

The lifetime cost of care for severe TBI can exceed $3 million.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

The extreme forces in trucking accidents can damage the spinal cord, resulting in:

• Paraplegia (loss of function below the waist)
• Quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs)
• Partial paralysis with some retained function

Spinal cord injuries often require lifelong medical care and assistance with daily activities. The lifetime cost of care for quadriplegia can exceed $5 million.

Amputations

In severe trucking accidents, limbs may be:

• Severed at the scene due to crushing forces
• Surgically amputated due to severe damage
• Lost due to infections from open wounds

Amputations require prosthetic devices, rehabilitation, and often result in permanent disability.

Severe Burns

Burns in trucking accidents can result from:

• Fuel tank ruptures and fires
• Hazardous material spills
• Electrical system failures
• Friction burns from road contact

Severe burns require extensive medical treatment, including skin grafts, and often result in permanent scarring and disfigurement.

Internal Organ Damage

The forces in trucking accidents can cause:

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

Internal injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents prove fatal, we help surviving family members pursue wrongful death claims to recover:

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

Who Is Liable in a Glenn Heights Trucking Accident?

One of the most important differences between trucking accidents and typical car accidents is that multiple parties may be liable for your injuries. At Attorney911, we investigate every potential defendant to maximize your recovery.

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

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

The Trucking Company

Trucking companies can be held liable through:

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 or qualifications
• Negligent Training: Inadequate safety or operational training
• Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance
• Negligent Maintenance: Failed to maintain vehicle in safe condition
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate hours of service regulations

The Cargo Owner/Shipper

The company that owns the cargo 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

The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
• Not training loaders on securement requirements

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for:

• Design defects in vehicle systems
• Manufacturing defects in components
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

Parts Manufacturers

Companies that manufacture specific parts may be liable for:

• Defective brakes or brake components
• Defective tires causing blowouts
• Defective steering mechanisms
• Defective lighting components
• Defective coupling devices

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance companies 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

Freight Brokers

Freight brokers who arrange transportation 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

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

Government Entities

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 Evidence in Your Glenn Heights Trucking Case

In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears quickly. 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.

Electronic Data That Must Be Preserved

ECM/Black Box Data:

• Engine Control Module records operational data
• Event Data Recorder captures pre-crash data
• Shows speed before and during crash
• Records brake application timing
• Captures throttle position
• May show cruise control status
• Can reveal fault codes for known mechanical issues

ELD (Electronic Logging Device) Data:

• Federally mandated since December 18, 2017
• Records driver hours of service
• Shows GPS location and route
• Proves hours of service violations
• Cannot be altered like paper logs

GPS and Telematics Data:

• Real-time location history
• Speed and route information
• Driver behavior data (hard braking, acceleration)

Cell Phone Records:

• Call logs showing phone use while driving
• Text message records
• Data usage showing app activity
• Can prove distracted driving violations

Dashcam Footage:

• Forward-facing cameras show road ahead
• Some systems record cab interior
• May show driver behavior before crash
• Often overwritten within 7-14 days

Driver and Company Records

Driver Qualification File:

• Employment application and background check
• Driving record from state licensing authority
• Road test certificate
• Medical examiner’s certificate
• Annual driving record review
• Previous employer inquiries
• Drug and alcohol test records

Hours of Service Records:

• ELD logs for 6 months prior
• Paper logs if applicable
• Dispatch records showing trip assignments
• Fuel receipts and toll records

Maintenance Records:

• Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
• Annual inspection records
• Repair orders and work performed
• Parts purchase records
• Brake adjustment records
• Tire replacement history

Vehicle Records:

• Registration and ownership records
• Inspection history and out-of-service orders
• Weigh station records
• Cargo manifests and bills of lading

Company Records:

• Safety policies and procedures
• Training curricula and records
• Supervision and monitoring practices
• Dispatch logs and communications
• Insurance policies
• Accident register

Physical Evidence

The Truck and Trailer:

• Must be preserved for inspection
• Damage patterns can reveal crash dynamics
• Mechanical components can show failures

Failed Components:

• Brakes, tires, steering components
• Must be preserved for expert analysis
• Can reveal manufacturing defects

Cargo and Securement Devices:

• Condition of cargo
• Tiedowns used and their condition
• Loading patterns

Accident Scene Evidence:

• Skid marks and debris patterns
• Road conditions
• Weather conditions
• Traffic control devices
• Surveillance footage from nearby businesses

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

At Attorney911, we understand that evidence in trucking cases disappears fast. That’s why we have a 48-hour evidence preservation protocol that we activate immediately when we’re retained:

1. Spoliation Letters Sent Within 24-48 Hours

   • Formal legal notice demanding preservation of all evidence
   • Sent to trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties
   • Creates legal consequences if evidence is destroyed

2. ECM/Black Box Data Preservation

   • Demand immediate download of all electronic data
   • Prevents overwriting of critical crash data
   • ECM data can be overwritten in 30 days or with new driving events

3. ELD Data Preservation

   • Obtain complete ELD records
   • Check for hours of service violations
   • Verify against dispatch records

4. Cell Phone Records Subpoena

   • Obtain driver’s complete cell phone records
   • Check for distracted driving violations
   • Look for communications with dispatch

5. Police Crash Report Obtained

   • Get official accident report
   • Review officer’s determination of fault
   • Identify all witnesses

6. Scene Investigation

   • Photograph accident scene if not already cleared
   • Document road conditions, signage, and markings
   • Canvass area for surveillance cameras

7. Witness Interviews

   • Contact all witnesses while memories are fresh
   • Obtain written statements
   • Preserve contact information

8. Vehicle Preservation

   • Demand truck and trailer be preserved in current condition
   • Prevent repairs that could destroy evidence
   • Arrange for inspection by accident reconstruction experts

How We Prove Negligence in Your Glenn Heights Trucking Case

To recover compensation, we must prove that the trucking company or driver was negligent. We build our cases using:

FMCSA Regulation Violations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399) establish minimum safety standards. Common violations we find include:

• Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395):

  • Driving beyond 11-hour limit
  • Exceeding 14-hour on-duty window
  • Failing to take required 30-minute breaks
  • Violating 60/70 hour weekly limits
  • False log entries

• Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391):

  • Hiring unqualified drivers
  • Incomplete Driver Qualification Files
  • Expired medical certificates
  • No valid commercial driver’s license (CDL)
  • Failure to check driving record

• Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396):

  • Failure to conduct required inspections
  • Ignoring known mechanical defects
  • Improper brake adjustments
  • Worn or defective tires
  • Malfunctioning lights or signals

• Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR Part 393):

  • Inadequate number of tiedowns
  • Improper working load limits
  • Unbalanced load distribution
  • Failure to use proper blocking or bracing

• Driving Rule Violations (49 CFR Part 392):

  • Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
  • Following too closely
  • Distracted driving (cell phone use)
  • Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
  • Failure to yield right-of-way

Negligent Hiring, Training, and Supervision

We investigate whether the trucking company:

• Failed to conduct proper background checks
• Hired drivers with poor safety records
• Provided inadequate safety training
• Failed to monitor driver performance
• Ignored previous violations or accidents
• Pressured drivers to violate safety regulations

Pattern of Safety Violations

We obtain the trucking company’s complete safety record, including:

• CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
• Inspection history and out-of-service rates
• Previous accident history
• Safety rating
• Pattern of similar violations

A history of safety violations can prove that the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on the road.

Expert Analysis

We work with leading experts to build your case:

Accident Reconstruction Experts:

• Analyze ECM and ELD data
• Reconstruct the sequence of events
• Determine speeds, braking, and impact forces
• Create computer simulations

Medical Experts:

• Document your injuries
• Establish causation between accident and injuries
• Project future medical needs
• Calculate future medical costs

Vocational Experts:

• Assess your ability to return to work
• Calculate lost earning capacity
• Identify alternative employment options

Economic Experts:

• Calculate present value of all damages
• Project future economic losses
• Analyze earning capacity

Life Care Planners:

• Develop comprehensive care plans
• Estimate lifetime care costs
• Identify necessary medical equipment and services

The Types of Compensation You Can Recover

In a successful trucking accident case, you may be entitled to several types of compensation:

Economic Damages

Medical Expenses:

• Hospital bills
• Doctor visits
• Surgery costs
• Rehabilitation
• Physical therapy
• Medical equipment
• Prescription medications
• Future medical care

Lost Wages:

• Income lost due to injury and recovery
• Lost earning capacity if unable to return to work
• Benefits lost (health insurance, retirement contributions)

Property Damage:

• Vehicle repair or replacement
• Personal property damaged in the accident

Out-of-Pocket Expenses:

• Transportation to medical appointments
• Home modifications for disabilities
• Household services you can no longer perform

Life Care Costs:

• Ongoing medical care
• In-home assistance
• Medical equipment
• Home modifications

Non-Economic Damages

Pain and Suffering:

• Physical pain from injuries
• Mental anguish and emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Permanent physical impairment
• Disfigurement and scarring

Loss of Consortium:

• Impact on marriage and family relationships
• Loss of companionship and affection
• Loss of household services

Punitive Damages

In cases involving gross negligence or willful misconduct, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. Examples include:

• Knowingly hiring dangerous drivers
• Systematically falsifying hours of service records
• Destroying evidence after an accident
• Pressuring drivers to violate safety regulations
• Ignoring known maintenance issues

The Legal Process for Your Glenn Heights Trucking Case

Initial Consultation

During your free consultation, we’ll:

• Review the facts of your accident
• Explain your legal rights and options
• Answer your questions about the process
• Discuss our fee structure (no fee unless we win)
• Explain the next steps if you choose to proceed

Investigation Phase

Once you retain us, we immediately begin:

• Sending spoliation letters to preserve evidence
• Obtaining police accident reports
• Subpoenaing ECM, ELD, and cell phone records
• Requesting driver qualification and maintenance records
• Interviewing witnesses
• Photographing the accident scene and vehicles
• Consulting with accident reconstruction experts

Medical Treatment and Documentation

We’ll help you:

• Get the medical care you need
• Document your injuries thoroughly
• Follow your doctor’s treatment plan
• Keep records of all medical expenses
• Document how your injuries affect your daily life

Demand and Negotiation

Once your medical treatment is complete, we’ll:

• Prepare a comprehensive demand package
• Calculate all economic and non-economic damages
• Send a demand letter to the insurance company
• Negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement

Litigation

If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’re prepared to:

• File a lawsuit in the appropriate court
• Conduct discovery (depositions, document requests)
• Prepare your case for trial
• Present your case to a jury if necessary

Resolution

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us maximum leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready to present your case to a jury if needed.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Glenn Heights Trucking Case?

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team with the experience, resources, and determination to take on the trucking industry. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:

25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Managing partner Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He has secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts against some of the largest trucking companies in America.

Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is critical for handling interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court.

Insider Knowledge of Trucking Insurance Tactics

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. He spent years on the other side, learning the tactics they use to protect their interests. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

Proven Track Record of Results

We’ve recovered millions of dollars for trucking accident victims, including:

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

Comprehensive Resources

We have the resources to handle even the most complex trucking cases:

• Accident reconstruction experts
• Medical specialists
• Vocational experts
• Economic experts
• Life care planners
• Investigators
• Support staff

Personal Attention

Unlike large firms where you’re just a case number, at Attorney911 you’re family. We treat every client with compassion and respect, keeping you informed every step of the way.

No Fee Unless We Win

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.

The Glenn Heights Trucking Corridors We Know

At Attorney911, we’re intimately familiar with the trucking corridors in and around Glenn Heights:

I-35E Corridor

I-35E runs through Glenn Heights, connecting Dallas to Denton. This major interstate sees significant commercial truck traffic, including:

• Long-haul trucks traveling between Mexico and Canada
• Local distribution trucks servicing businesses along the corridor
• Trucks accessing the Glenn Heights Business Park
• Vehicles traveling to and from the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex

The I-35E corridor presents several challenges:

• Heavy traffic during peak commuting hours
• Congestion near interchanges
• Trucks merging from business park access points
• Increased risk of rear-end collisions
• Potential for jackknife accidents during sudden stops

I-20 Corridor

While I-20 doesn’t run directly through Glenn Heights, it’s just minutes away and serves as a major east-west trucking route. Trucks traveling on I-20:

• Connect to I-35E via local roads
• Service distribution centers in the area
• Travel between East Texas and the DFW metroplex
• Carry goods between the Port of Houston and North Texas

The I-20 corridor in this area is known for:

• High truck volume
• Congestion near major interchanges
• Trucks accessing local roads to reach businesses
• Increased risk of accidents during peak hours

Local Roads and Business Access Points

Glenn Heights has several local roads that see significant truck traffic:

• Glenn Heights Road: Connects to I-35E and serves local businesses
• Belt Line Road: Major east-west route with commercial access
• Glenn Heights Business Park: Area with multiple distribution centers
• Industrial access roads: Connecting businesses to major highways

These local roads present unique challenges:

• Trucks maneuvering in tight spaces
• Increased risk of accidents with passenger vehicles
• Trucks accessing loading docks and parking areas
• Potential for wide-turn accidents at intersections

Common Types of Trucking Accidents in Glenn Heights

Our experience handling trucking cases in Glenn Heights has revealed several accident patterns specific to our community:

Rear-End Collisions on I-35E

With heavy traffic and frequent stops, rear-end collisions are common on I-35E. These accidents often occur when:

• Trucks follow too closely behind passenger vehicles
• Drivers are distracted by dispatch communications
• Fatigued drivers have delayed reaction times
• Brake failures prevent trucks from stopping in time

The massive weight difference means that when a truck rear-ends a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic.

Wide-Turn Accidents at Local Intersections

Trucks making right turns often need to swing wide to the left to avoid curbs and obstacles. This creates a dangerous situation when:

• Passenger vehicles try to pass the truck on the right
• The truck driver fails to check mirrors properly
• The truck cuts off vehicles as it completes the turn
• Pedestrians or cyclists are in the truck’s blind spot

These accidents often result in crushing injuries or fatalities.

Jackknife Accidents During Sudden Stops

Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic. In Glenn Heights, these accidents frequently happen:

• On I-35E during sudden traffic slowdowns
• When trucks brake suddenly to avoid obstacles
• On wet or icy roads
• When trucks are traveling too fast for conditions

Jackknife accidents often result in multi-vehicle pileups with severe injuries.

Underride Collisions

Underride collisions occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath a truck’s trailer. These are among the most deadly trucking accidents. In Glenn Heights, they often happen:

• At intersections when trucks stop suddenly
• When trucks make turns across traffic lanes
• When trucks change lanes without proper clearance
• In low visibility conditions

Federal regulations require rear underride guards, but many trucks lack adequate protection, and there are no federal requirements for side underride guards.

Tire Blowout Accidents

Tire blowouts can cause trucks to lose control, resulting in:

• Jackknife accidents
• Rollover accidents
• Multi-vehicle collisions
• Debris striking other vehicles

In Glenn Heights, tire blowouts are particularly dangerous due to:

• Heavy truck traffic on I-35E
• High speeds on interstate highways
• Potential for debris to strike following vehicles
• Risk of secondary accidents from sudden lane changes

Cargo Spill Accidents

Improperly secured cargo can fall from trucks or shift during transit, causing:

• Vehicles striking fallen cargo
• Chain-reaction accidents from debris
• Rollover accidents from shifting loads
• Hazardous material spills

These accidents are particularly dangerous when:

• Hazardous materials are involved
• Cargo spills onto busy highways
• Trucks lose control due to shifting loads

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Glenn Heights

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Glenn Heights, taking the right steps immediately can protect your health and your legal rights:

1. Call 911 and Report the Accident

   • Request police and emergency medical services
   • Report all injuries, even if they seem minor
   • Ensure a police report is filed

2. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

   • Get checked out at the scene by paramedics
   • Go to the emergency room if recommended
   • Follow up with your doctor as soon as possible
   • Many injuries don’t show symptoms immediately

3. Document the Scene

   • Take photos of all vehicles involved
   • Photograph the accident scene from multiple angles
   • Capture road conditions, traffic signs, and skid marks
   • Take pictures of your injuries
   • Get contact information from witnesses

4. Obtain Critical Information

   • Truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
   • Trucking company name and contact information
   • Truck license plate and DOT number
   • Insurance information for all parties
   • Witness names and contact information

5. Do NOT Give Statements to Insurance Adjusters

   • Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company
   • Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim
   • Do not give recorded statements without legal representation

6. Call Attorney911 Immediately

   • Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases
   • We’ll send spoliation letters to preserve critical evidence
   • We’ll handle all communications with insurance companies
   • We’ll protect your rights from the beginning

Frequently Asked Questions About Glenn Heights Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after a trucking accident in Glenn Heights?

If you’re able, take these steps:

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention, even for minor injuries
• Document the scene with photos and video
• Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
• Collect witness contact information
• Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
• 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, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Glenn Heights hospitals and nearby trauma centers 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 Glenn Heights?

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 Glenn Heights?

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 record operational data – similar to airplane black boxes. 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?

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 Glenn Heights?

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 Glenn Heights?

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 Glenn Heights?

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.

Glenn Heights Trucking Accident Resources

Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers

• Methodist Charlton Medical Center – 3500 W Wheatland Rd, Dallas, TX 75237 (Level III Trauma Center)
• Medical City Dallas – 7777 Forest Ln, Dallas, TX 75230 (Level I Trauma Center)
• Baylor University Medical Center – 3500 Gaston Ave, Dallas, TX 75246 (Level I Trauma Center)

Glenn Heights Police Department

• Address: 1938 S Hampton Rd, Glenn Heights, TX 75154
• Non-Emergency Phone: (972) 223-2101
• Website: City of Glenn Heights Police Department

Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)

• Dallas District Office: 4777 E Highway 80, Mesquite, TX 75150
• Phone: (214) 320-4480
• Website: TxDOT Dallas District

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)

• Website: FMCSA
• Safety Measurement System: SaferSys
• Complaint Hotline: 1-888-368-7238

Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)

• Website: Texas DPS
• Commercial Vehicle Enforcement: Texas DPS Commercial Vehicle Enforcement

Glenn Heights City Resources

• City of Glenn Heights Website: City of Glenn Heights
• Glenn Heights Municipal Court: 1938 S Hampton Rd, Glenn Heights, TX 75154
• Glenn Heights Public Works: (972) 223-1621

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Glenn Heights, don’t wait. Every minute counts when it comes to preserving evidence and protecting your rights.

Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

Our Glenn Heights trucking accident attorneys are ready to fight for you. We offer:

• Free, no-obligation consultations
• No fee unless we win your case
• Immediate evidence preservation
• Aggressive representation against trucking companies
• Personal attention from our experienced attorneys

Remember, the trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of representation. Call Attorney911 today and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

“When an 80,000-pound truck changes your life in an instant, you need an attorney who treats you like family. That’s what we do at Attorney911.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

“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

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now for your free consultation.