18-Wheeler Accidents in Richardson: Your Complete Legal Guide

Every year, thousands of families across North Texas face life-changing consequences from 18-wheeler accidents. If you or someone you love has been injured in a trucking accident in Richardson, you’re not alone – and you have powerful legal rights. The aftermath of these crashes leaves victims with overwhelming medical bills, lost income, and physical pain that can last a lifetime. This comprehensive guide explains everything Richardson residents need to know about 18-wheeler accidents, from immediate steps to take after a crash to how our experienced Richardson trucking accident attorneys can help you recover the maximum compensation you deserve.

Why Richardson’s Highways Are Particularly Dangerous for Trucking Accidents

Richardson sits at the crossroads of some of Texas’s busiest trucking corridors. The convergence of major highways including US-75, the President George Bush Turnpike, and I-635 creates a perfect storm for commercial vehicle accidents. Our city’s position as a distribution hub for North Texas means heavy truck traffic flows through Richardson daily, increasing the risk of catastrophic collisions.

The Richardson area sees particularly dangerous trucking patterns:

• US-75 corridor – Heavy freight traffic moving between Dallas and Sherman
• President George Bush Turnpike – Major east-west trucking route connecting distribution centers
• I-635 – High-volume truck traffic serving Dallas-Fort Worth logistics hubs
• Local distribution centers – Concentrated truck traffic in industrial zones

These Richardson trucking corridors see frequent accidents due to:

• Congestion during peak commuting hours
• Complex interchange designs that challenge truck drivers
• Mix of local commuter traffic with long-haul truckers
• High-speed limits that create dangerous closing speeds
• Weather conditions that catch truckers unprepared

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Richardson

The physics of trucking accidents make them particularly deadly. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds – 20-25 times more than the average passenger vehicle. When these massive vehicles collide with cars, the results are often catastrophic.

Richardson Trucking Accident Statistics

While specific Richardson statistics aren’t always available, statewide Texas data paints a grim picture:

• Over 5,100 people die in truck crashes annually in the U.S.
• More than 125,000 people suffer injuries in truck accidents each year
• 76% of truck accident fatalities are occupants of passenger vehicles
• Texas consistently ranks among the top states for trucking fatalities

The Richardson area sees its share of these devastating crashes, particularly on our major highways and at busy intersections.

Common Types of Trucking Accidents in Richardson

Our Richardson trucking accident attorneys see these types of crashes most frequently:

Jackknife Accidents
When a truck’s trailer swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the cab, often blocking multiple lanes. These typically occur when:

• Drivers brake suddenly on wet or icy roads
• Empty trailers lack proper weight distribution
• Speeding trucks lose control on curves
• Brake failures prevent proper stopping

Rollover Accidents
When an 18-wheeler tips onto its side or roof, often causing:

• Multi-vehicle pileups
• Cargo spills that create additional hazards
• Crushing injuries to vehicles beneath the trailer
• Fatalities from the sheer force of impact

Underride Collisions
When a passenger vehicle slides underneath a truck trailer, often resulting in:

• Decapitation from the trailer’s height
• Catastrophic head and neck injuries
• Fatalities for all vehicle occupants
• Severe crushing injuries

Rear-End Collisions
When a truck strikes the back of another vehicle, causing:

• Whiplash and spinal injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries from sudden impact
• Crushing injuries when vehicles are pushed into other objects
• Fatalities from the massive force of impact

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)
When trucks swing wide before turning right, creating gaps that other vehicles enter, resulting in:

• Crushing injuries from being caught between truck and curb
• Sideswipe injuries from trailer swing
• Pedestrian and cyclist fatalities
• Multiple vehicle involvement

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)
When trucks change lanes without seeing vehicles in their blind spots, particularly dangerous in Richardson’s:

• Right-side No-Zone (largest blind spot)
• Rear No-Zone (30+ feet behind trailer)
• Front No-Zone (20+ feet in front of cab)
• Left-side No-Zone (smaller but still hazardous)

Tire Blowout Accidents
When truck tires fail suddenly, causing:

• Loss of control and rollovers
• Debris that strikes other vehicles
• Multi-vehicle pileups
• Fatalities from sudden lane departures

Brake Failure Accidents
When truck braking systems fail, resulting in:

• High-speed rear-end collisions
• Multi-vehicle pileups
• Fatalities from inability to stop
• Catastrophic injuries from impact forces

The Most Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Richardson

Our Richardson trucking accident attorneys investigate these primary causes in local crashes:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Federal regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

• 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 with 34-hour restart

Despite these rules, fatigue remains a leading cause of Richardson trucking accidents. Drivers often violate these limits due to:

• Pressure from trucking companies to meet delivery deadlines
• Financial incentives for faster deliveries
• Inadequate rest facilities along Richardson trucking routes
• Falsification of electronic logging device (ELD) records

Distracted Driving

Truck drivers face numerous distractions that can lead to Richardson accidents:

• Cell phone use (texting, talking, GPS)
• Dispatch communications via onboard systems
• Eating and drinking while driving
• Adjusting in-cab electronics
• External distractions (billboards, scenery)

Federal law prohibits hand-held phone use while driving commercial vehicles (49 CFR § 392.82), yet many Richardson truckers still engage in this dangerous behavior.

Impaired Driving

Despite strict regulations, some truck drivers operate under the influence of:

• Alcohol (BAC of .04 or higher is illegal for CMV drivers)
• Illegal drugs
• Prescription medications
• Over-the-counter medications that cause drowsiness

The FMCSA maintains a Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse that tracks violations, but some drivers still slip through the cracks.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Truck drivers often exceed speed limits or drive too fast for conditions on Richardson roads due to:

• Tight delivery schedules
• Pressure from dispatchers
• Unfamiliarity with local road conditions
• Overconfidence in their vehicle’s handling

Speeding reduces reaction time and increases stopping distances, making accidents more likely and more severe.

Improper Loading and Cargo Securement

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

• Proper tiedowns to prevent cargo shift
• Working load limits for all securement devices
• Specific securement methods for different cargo types
• Regular inspection of cargo during transit

When cargo isn’t properly secured, it can:

• Shift during transit, causing rollovers
• Fall from the truck, creating road hazards
• Overload the vehicle beyond weight limits
• Create instability during turns or sudden maneuvers

Poor Vehicle Maintenance

Trucking companies must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles (49 CFR § 396.3). Common maintenance failures include:

• Worn or improperly adjusted brakes
• Bald or underinflated tires
• Faulty lighting and reflectors
• Steering system failures
• Suspension problems

Brake failures alone contribute to approximately 29% of all large truck crashes.

Inadequate Driver Training

Trucking companies must properly train drivers on:

• Vehicle operation and safety
• Hours of service compliance
• Cargo securement procedures
• Emergency maneuvering
• Defensive driving techniques

Inadequate training leads to preventable accidents on Richardson roads.

Negligent Hiring Practices

Trucking companies must conduct thorough background checks before hiring drivers, including:

• Driving record verification
• Previous employer checks
• Drug and alcohol screening
• Medical certification
• Criminal background checks

When companies cut corners in hiring, they put dangerous drivers on Richardson roads.

The Catastrophic Injuries Caused by Richardson Trucking Accidents

The sheer size and weight of 18-wheelers mean accidents often result in life-altering injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when the brain is damaged by sudden trauma, often resulting in:

• Memory loss and cognitive impairment
• Personality changes and mood disorders
• Speech and language difficulties
• Permanent disability requiring lifelong care
• Increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord can cause:

• Paraplegia (paralysis from the waist down)
• Quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs)
• Loss of bladder and bowel control
• Chronic pain and muscle spasms
• Permanent disability requiring 24/7 care

Amputations

Crushing injuries often result in:

• Surgical amputations of limbs
• Traumatic amputations at the scene
• Phantom limb pain
• Psychological trauma
• Need for prosthetic limbs and rehabilitation

Severe Burns

Trucking accidents can cause burns from:

• Fuel fires from ruptured tanks
• Chemical exposure from cargo spills
• Electrical fires from damaged wiring
• Friction burns from road contact
• Explosions from hazardous materials

Internal Organ Damage

The force of trucking accidents can cause:

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

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents prove fatal, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims for:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses before death
• Pain and suffering before death

Who Can Be Held Liable in Richardson Trucking Accidents?

Unlike typical car accidents, trucking crashes often involve multiple liable parties:

The Truck Driver

Drivers can be held personally liable for:

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

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

Trucking companies bear significant responsibility through:

• Vicarious liability for driver actions within the scope of employment
• Negligent hiring of unqualified or dangerous drivers
• Negligent training that fails to prepare drivers for safe operation
• Negligent supervision that fails to monitor driver behavior
• Negligent maintenance that allows unsafe vehicles on the road
• Negligent scheduling that pressures drivers to violate hours-of-service rules

Cargo Owners and Shippers

The companies that own and ship cargo may be liable for:

• Improper loading instructions
• Failure to disclose hazardous materials
• Requiring overweight loads
• Pressuring carriers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules

Cargo Loading Companies

Third-party loading companies may be responsible for:

• Improper cargo securement
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking and bracing
• Not following FMCSA cargo securement regulations

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 (brakes, stability control, etc.)

Parts Manufacturers

Companies that manufacture specific components may be liable for:

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

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers may be liable for:

• Negligent repairs that fail to fix problems
• Failure to identify critical safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Use of substandard or incorrect parts
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Freight Brokers

Companies that arrange transportation may be liable for:

• Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
• Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
• Failure to check carrier CSA scores
• Selecting the cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

Truck Owners (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may share liability for:

• Negligent entrustment of the vehicle
• Failure to maintain owned equipment
• Knowledge of the driver’s unfitness

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, government agencies may be liable for:

• Dangerous road design that contributes to accidents
• 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 Richardson Trucking Accident Cases

Winning your Richardson trucking accident case requires preserving and analyzing critical evidence:

Electronic Data

ECM/Black Box Data
Commercial trucks have electronic control modules that record:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing and force
• Throttle position
• Engine RPM
• Cruise control status
• Fault codes indicating mechanical issues

ELD (Electronic Logging Device) Data
Federally mandated devices record:

• Driver hours of service
• Duty status changes
• GPS location history
• Driving time
• Violations of hours-of-service rules

GPS and Telematics Data
Provides:

• Real-time location tracking
• Speed history
• Route information
• Driver behavior data
• Hard braking and acceleration events

Cell Phone Records
Can prove:

• Distracted driving
• Texting while driving
• Phone calls during driving
• GPS app usage

Physical Evidence

The Truck and Trailer
Must be preserved for inspection of:

• Brake condition and adjustment
• Tire wear and inflation
• Lighting and reflectors
• Cargo securement devices
• Underride guard condition
• Any mechanical defects

Cargo and Securement Devices
Inspection can reveal:

• Improper loading
• Inadequate tiedowns
• Overloading
• Cargo shift patterns
• Securement failures

Accident Scene Evidence
Includes:

• Skid marks showing braking and evasive maneuvers
• Debris patterns indicating point of impact
• Road conditions (wet, icy, debris)
• Traffic control devices
• Sightline obstructions

Documentary Evidence

Driver Qualification File
Contains:

• Employment application
• Driving record check
• Previous employer verification
• Medical certification
• Drug test results
• Training records

Maintenance Records
Show:

• Regular inspection history
• Repair records
• Brake adjustment records
• Tire replacement history
• Parts used in repairs

Inspection Reports
Including:

• Pre-trip inspection reports
• Post-trip inspection reports
• Annual inspection reports
• Roadside inspection reports
• Out-of-service orders

Dispatch Records
Reveal:

• Trip schedules and deadlines
• Communication between driver and dispatcher
• Pressure to meet delivery times
• Route instructions

Drug and Alcohol Test Results
Show:

• Pre-employment test results
• Random test results
• Post-accident test results
• Reasonable suspicion test results

Witness Evidence

Eyewitness Testimony
From:

• Other drivers
• Pedestrians
• Nearby residents
• Passengers in involved vehicles

Expert Witness Testimony
From:

• Accident reconstruction experts
• Trucking industry experts
• Medical experts
• Economic experts
• Vocational experts

Why You Need a Richardson Trucking Accident Attorney Immediately

After a Richardson trucking accident, time is your enemy. Critical evidence disappears quickly:

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

Our Richardson trucking accident attorneys take these immediate steps:

1. Send Spoliation Letters
   Within 24-48 hours, we send formal legal notices demanding preservation of:

• ECM/Black Box data
• ELD records
• Driver Qualification Files
• Maintenance records
• Inspection reports
• Dispatch records
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Cell phone records
• GPS/telematics data
• Dashcam footage
• The physical truck and trailer

1. Demand Electronic Data Downloads
   We demand immediate download of:

• ECM data showing speed, braking, and throttle
• ELD data showing hours of service compliance
• GPS data showing route and location history
• Telematics data showing driver behavior

1. Secure Physical Evidence
   We arrange for:

• Inspection of the truck and trailer
• Preservation of failed components
• Documentation of cargo securement
• Accident scene investigation

1. Obtain Police and Crash Reports
   We secure:

• Police accident reports
• 911 call recordings
• Crash reconstruction reports
• Citations issued

1. Interview Witnesses
   We locate and interview:

• Eyewitnesses
• First responders
• Medical personnel
• Other drivers

The Consequences of Delay

If you wait to contact an attorney:

• Black box data may be overwritten in 30 days
• ELD data may be retained for only 6 months
• Dashcam footage may be deleted within 7-14 days
• Surveillance video may be overwritten within 30 days
• Physical evidence may be repaired or destroyed
• Witness memories fade
• The trucking company’s rapid-response team builds their defense

How Richardson Trucking Accident Cases Are Valued

The value of your Richardson trucking accident case depends on multiple factors:

Economic Damages

Medical Expenses

• Emergency room treatment
• Hospitalization
• Surgery
• Rehabilitation
• Physical therapy
• Medications
• Medical equipment
• Future medical care

Lost Wages

• Income lost during recovery
• Reduced earning capacity
• Lost benefits
• Lost bonuses and incentives

Property Damage

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

Out-of-Pocket Expenses

• Transportation to medical appointments
• Home modifications
• Assistive devices
• Home care services

Life Care Costs

• Ongoing medical care
• Rehabilitation services
• Home modifications
• Assistive technology
• Long-term care

Non-Economic Damages

Pain and Suffering

• Physical pain from injuries
• Chronic pain
• Discomfort from medical treatment

Mental Anguish

• Psychological trauma
• Anxiety and depression
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Emotional distress

Loss of Enjoyment of Life

• Inability to participate in hobbies and activities
• Reduced quality of life
• Loss of independence

Disfigurement

• Scarring
• Burn injuries
• Amputations
• Visible injuries

Loss of Consortium

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

Punitive Damages

In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded to:

• Punish the wrongdoer
• Deter similar conduct
• Send a message to the industry

Punitive damages are available when trucking companies:

• Knowingly hire dangerous drivers
• Systematically falsify hours-of-service records
• Destroy evidence
• Pressure drivers to violate safety regulations
• Ignore known safety violations for profit

Richardson-Specific Legal Considerations

Texas Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is strict – if you miss it, you lose your right to compensation forever.

Texas Comparative Negligence Rule

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar rule:

• If you are 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages
• Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you are 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything

For example:

• If you are 20% at fault, you recover 80% of damages
• If you are 50% at fault, you recover 50% of damages
• If you are 51% at fault, you recover nothing

Damage Caps in Texas

Texas has specific rules regarding damage caps:

• No cap on economic damages (medical expenses, lost wages)
• No cap on non-economic damages in most personal injury cases
• Punitive damages capped at the greater of:
  • (2 × economic damages) + (non-economic damages up to $750,000)
  • OR $200,000

Richardson Courts and Venue

Richardson trucking accident cases may be filed in:

• Collin County District Courts – For cases with damages exceeding $250,000
• Collin County Courts at Law – For cases with damages between $200,000 and $250,000
• Richardson Municipal Court – For minor cases with damages under $200,000

Our Richardson trucking accident attorneys know the local courts, judges, and procedures that affect your case.

The Legal Process for Richardson Trucking Accident Cases

Initial Consultation

We offer free, confidential consultations to:

• Evaluate your case
• Explain your legal rights
• Answer your questions
• Develop an initial strategy

Investigation and Evidence Gathering

We conduct a thorough investigation, including:

• Sending spoliation letters
• Obtaining electronic data
• Securing physical evidence
• Interviewing witnesses
• Consulting with experts

Demand Letter

We send a comprehensive demand letter to the trucking company’s insurance carrier, detailing:

• Liability facts
• Injury documentation
• Medical treatment
• Damages calculation
• Settlement demand

Negotiation

We negotiate aggressively with insurance adjusters, using:

• Evidence of liability
• Documentation of damages
• Case law and precedent
• Trial preparation as leverage

Litigation

If negotiations fail, we file a lawsuit and proceed through:

• Discovery – Exchanging evidence and taking depositions
• Motions – Filing legal arguments to strengthen your case
• Mediation – Attempting to settle with a neutral mediator
• Trial – Presenting your case to a judge or jury

Settlement or Verdict

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready for trial if necessary.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Richardson Trucking Accident Case

Unparalleled Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience handling trucking accident cases across Texas. He has:

• Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for trucking accident victims
• Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Experience in BP explosion litigation against multinational corporations
• Deep familiarity with Richardson trucking corridors and accident patterns

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies:

• Evaluate claims
• Train adjusters
• Minimize payouts
• Deny legitimate claims

This insider knowledge gives us an unfair advantage in negotiating with insurance companies.

Comprehensive Resources

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

• Access to top accident reconstruction experts
• Relationships with medical specialists
• Financial resources to advance case costs
• Experience with multi-party litigation
• Knowledge of federal trucking regulations

Proven Results

While we can’t guarantee specific results, our track record includes:

• $5+ million – Logging brain injury settlement
• $3.8+ million – Car accident amputation settlement
• $2+ million – Maritime back injury settlement
• $2.5+ million – Truck crash recovery
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

Client-Centered Approach

We treat our clients like family:

• 24/7 availability for your questions and concerns
• Direct access to your attorney
• Regular case updates
• Compassionate representation
• Aggressive advocacy

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This means:

• No upfront costs
• No hourly fees
• No financial risk to you
• We only get paid when you get paid

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Richardson

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Richardson, take these steps:

1. Call 911 Immediately

   • Report the accident
   • Request police and emergency medical services

2. Seek Medical Attention

   • Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out
   • Adrenaline masks pain – injuries may not be immediately apparent
   • Medical records create critical evidence for your case

3. Document the Scene

   • Take photos of all vehicles involved
   • Photograph damage, license plates, and company logos
   • Capture road conditions, skid marks, and traffic signals
   • Take pictures of your injuries

4. Collect Information

   • Get the truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
   • Obtain the trucking company’s name and DOT number
   • Collect contact information from witnesses
   • Note the responding officer’s name and badge number

5. Don’t Give Statements

   • Do not give recorded statements to any insurance company
   • Do not sign anything from the trucking company or their insurer
   • Do not discuss fault or injuries with anyone

6. Contact a Richardson Trucking Accident Attorney

   • Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911
   • We’ll send a preservation letter immediately
   • We’ll begin investigating your case right away

Frequently Asked Questions About Richardson Trucking Accidents

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

Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene, collect information, and contact a Richardson trucking accident attorney immediately. Critical evidence disappears quickly, so time is of the essence.

Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?

Yes. Adrenaline masks pain, and internal injuries may not show symptoms immediately. Richardson hospitals and trauma centers can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case.

What information should I collect at the truck accident scene?

Document everything:

• 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 and road conditions
• Photos of your injuries
• Witness names and phone numbers
• Responding officer’s name and badge number

Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

No. 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 operate.

How quickly should I contact a Richardson trucking accident attorney?

Immediately – within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send spoliation letters within hours to preserve this evidence.

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

Multiple parties may be liable:

• 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)

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, training, supervision, and maintenance.

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 and prove what really happened.

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 including:

• 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.

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 impose sanctions, adverse inferences, or even default judgment in extreme cases.

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 Richardson?

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 Richardson?

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.

What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in Richardson?

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 Richardson?

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.

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

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

How much insurance do trucking companies carry?

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:

• $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
• $1,000,000 for oil, large equipment
• $5,000,000 for hazardous materials

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.

What if multiple insurance policies apply to my accident?

Trucking cases often involve multiple policies:

• Motor carrier’s liability policy
• Trailer interchange coverage
• Cargo insurance
• Owner-operator’s policy
• Excess/umbrella coverage

We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.

Will the trucking company’s insurance try to settle quickly?

Often yes – and that’s a red flag. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Richardson trucking accident, don’t wait. Critical evidence is disappearing every hour. Our Richardson trucking accident attorneys are ready to fight for you.

Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free consultation.

We’ll:

• Evaluate your case immediately
• Send preservation letters to protect your evidence
• Begin investigating your claim
• Fight for the maximum compensation you deserve

Remember: The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect them. You deserve the same level of representation.

Hablamos Español. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. If you prefer to speak Spanish, call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 and ask for Lupe.

Don’t let the trucking company get away with it. Call Attorney911 today and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.