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

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Briar, you’re facing one of the most traumatic experiences of your life. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks mean that collisions often result in catastrophic injuries, overwhelming medical bills, and life-altering consequences. At Attorney911, we understand the unique challenges of trucking accident cases in Briar, and we’re here to help you navigate the complex legal landscape to secure the compensation you deserve.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in Briar Are Different

Briar sits at a critical juncture in North Texas, where major highways intersect and heavy commercial traffic flows through our community daily. The trucking corridors serving Briar—including Highway 114, Highway 287, and nearby I-35W—see significant freight movement between Fort Worth, Dallas, and beyond. This high volume of truck traffic creates unique risks for local drivers.

Unlike typical car accidents, 18-wheeler crashes involve complex federal regulations, multiple potentially liable parties, and trucking companies with teams of lawyers working to minimize their liability. The physics of these accidents also make them particularly devastating:

• A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—20 to 25 times more than a passenger vehicle
• At highway speeds, an 80,000-pound truck needs nearly two football fields (525 feet) to come to a complete stop
• The force of impact in a truck collision transfers massive energy to smaller vehicles, often causing catastrophic damage

Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Briar

Trucking accidents in Briar take many forms, each with unique causes and devastating consequences:

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when a truck’s trailer swings out to the side, forming an angle with the cab like a folding pocket knife. These terrifying crashes often block multiple lanes of traffic and cause multi-vehicle pileups. In Briar, jackknife accidents frequently happen on Highway 114 during sudden weather changes or when drivers brake too hard on wet or icy roads.

Common causes include:

• Sudden braking on slippery roads
• Speeding around curves
• Empty or improperly loaded trailers
• Brake system failures

Underride Collisions

Underride accidents are among the most deadly trucking crashes. They occur when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler, often shearing off the top of the passenger vehicle. These accidents frequently happen on Briar’s highways when trucks make sudden stops or lane changes without proper warning.

There are two main types:

• Rear underride: When a vehicle strikes the back of a trailer
• Side underride: When a vehicle impacts the side of a trailer during lane changes or turns

Federal law requires rear underride guards on trailers, but side underride guards are not mandatory—despite their proven ability to save lives.

Rollovers

Rollover accidents happen when an 18-wheeler tips onto its side or roof. These crashes are particularly common on Briar’s highways when trucks take curves too fast or when cargo shifts unexpectedly. The massive weight of a rolling truck can crush multiple vehicles in its path.

Common causes include:

• Speeding on curves or ramps
• Improperly secured cargo
• Liquid cargo “slosh” shifting weight
• Driver overcorrection after tire blowouts

Tire Blowouts

Tire blowouts are a significant hazard on Briar’s roads, especially during our hot Texas summers. When a truck tire fails at highway speeds, the driver may lose control, and debris from the blowout can strike other vehicles. The Texas heat puts additional stress on truck tires, making blowouts more likely on our local roads.

Brake Failures

Brake failures are a leading cause of trucking accidents nationwide, and Briar is no exception. The long descents on some of our local highways can cause brakes to overheat and fail, leading to catastrophic crashes. Trucking companies are required to maintain their brake systems properly, but cost-cutting measures often lead to deferred maintenance and dangerous conditions.

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Wide turn accidents, also known as “squeeze play” accidents, occur when a truck swings wide to make a turn, creating a gap that smaller vehicles try to enter. As the truck completes its turn, it crushes the vehicle that entered the gap. These accidents are particularly common at intersections in Briar where trucks make right turns from left-hand lanes.

Blind Spot Collisions (“No-Zone” Accidents)

Commercial trucks have massive blind spots—known as “No-Zones”—where the driver cannot see other vehicles. These blind spots exist:

• Directly in front of the cab (20 feet)
• Directly behind the trailer (30 feet)
• Along both sides of the trailer (especially the right side)

When truck drivers change lanes without properly checking these blind spots, they can collide with vehicles they never saw. These accidents frequently occur on Briar’s highways during lane changes and merges.

Catastrophic Injuries from Briar Trucking Accidents

The sheer size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles means that trucking accidents in Briar often result in life-altering injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when the brain is violently shaken or struck, causing damage that can range from mild concussions to severe, permanent impairment. Symptoms may include:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory loss and confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes and personality shifts
• Sleep disturbances
• Speech and language problems

Even mild TBIs can have lasting effects on cognitive function, while severe TBIs may require lifelong care and support.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis. The level of injury determines the extent of paralysis:

• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs

Spinal cord injuries often require extensive medical treatment, assistive devices, home modifications, and long-term care.

Amputations

The crushing forces in trucking accidents can sever limbs at the scene or require surgical amputation due to severe damage. Amputations create lifelong challenges, including:

• Multiple prosthetic fittings and replacements
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Psychological trauma and body image issues
• Career limitations and retraining needs

Severe Burns

Burns are common in trucking accidents due to:

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

Burn injuries require extensive treatment, including skin grafts, reconstructive surgery, and long-term rehabilitation.

Internal Organ Damage

The forces involved in trucking accidents can cause severe internal injuries, including:

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

These injuries often require emergency surgery and can have long-term health consequences.

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident claims a life, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. These cases seek compensation for:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred before death

Who Is Liable for Your Briar 18-Wheeler Accident?

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

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for negligent actions such as:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, dispatch communications)
• 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 for their drivers’ actions and the safety of their vehicles. They may be liable for:

• Vicarious liability: The company is responsible for its employees’ actions within the scope of employment
• Negligent hiring: Failing to properly screen drivers or hiring unqualified individuals
• Negligent training: Providing inadequate safety or operational training
• Negligent supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance and compliance
• Negligent maintenance: Failing to properly maintain vehicles in safe condition
• Negligent scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate hours-of-service regulations

Cargo Owners and Shippers

The companies that own the cargo and arrange for its shipment may be liable for:

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous cargo
• Requiring overweight loads
• Pressuring carriers to expedite shipments beyond safe limits
• Misrepresenting cargo characteristics

Cargo Loading Companies

Third-party companies that physically load cargo onto trucks may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement (violating 49 CFR 393)
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failing to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
• Not training loaders on securement requirements

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

Manufacturers of trucks, trailers, or major components may be liable for:

• Design defects (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement)
• Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

Parts Manufacturers

Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for:

• Defective brake components
• Defective tires causing 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
• Using substandard or incorrect parts
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Freight Brokers

Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks 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

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, government agencies may be liable for:

• Dangerous road design that contributed to the accident
• Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
• Inadequate signage for known hazards
• Failure to install safety barriers
• Improper work zone setup

Federal Trucking Regulations That Protect Briar Drivers

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates all commercial motor vehicles operating in interstate commerce. These regulations are designed to protect public safety, and violations often prove negligence in trucking accident cases.

Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations (49 CFR Part 395)

HOS regulations are among the most commonly violated rules in trucking accidents. They limit how long drivers can operate to prevent fatigue-related crashes:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Drivers cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour Duty Window: Drivers cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• 30-Minute Break: Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: Drivers cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
• 34-Hour Restart: Drivers can reset their weekly clock with 34 consecutive hours off duty

Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. When drivers violate these rules, both the driver and the trucking company may be liable.

Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR Part 391)

FMCSA regulations establish minimum qualifications for commercial drivers. Trucking companies must maintain a Driver Qualification (DQ) File for each driver containing:

• Employment application and background check
• Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) from state licensing authority
• Road test certificate or equivalent
• Medical examiner’s certificate (valid for up to 2 years)
• Annual driving record review
• Previous employer inquiries (3-year driving history)
• Drug and alcohol test records

Missing or incomplete DQ files prove negligent hiring and can establish liability for the trucking company.

Vehicle Safety Standards (49 CFR Part 393)

These regulations establish equipment and cargo securement standards:

Cargo Securement Requirements:

• Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent shifting or falling
• Securement systems must withstand specific forces (0.8g forward, 0.5g lateral, 0.5g rearward)
• Minimum tiedown requirements based on cargo length and weight
• Special requirements for specific cargo types (logs, metal coils, machinery)

Brake System Requirements:

• All CMVs must have properly functioning service brakes
• Parking/emergency brake systems are required
• Air brake systems must meet specific requirements
• Brake adjustment must be maintained within specifications

Lighting Requirements:

• Headlamps, tail lamps, stop lamps
• Clearance and side marker lamps
• Reflectors and retroreflective sheeting
• Turn signal lamps

Violations of these regulations often contribute to accidents and establish liability.

Inspection and Maintenance Requirements (49 CFR Part 396)

Trucking companies must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles:

• Drivers must conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections
• Annual inspections are required for all CMVs
• Maintenance records must be retained for 1 year
• Inspection reports must document vehicle condition

Failure to maintain proper records or address known defects can establish liability for the trucking company.

The Critical 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

In 18-wheeler 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 fast, critical evidence will be lost forever.

Why Time Is Critical

At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained. This formal legal notice demands that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident.

What the Spoliation Letter Demands

Our spoliation letters demand preservation of:

Electronic Data:

• Engine Control Module (ECM) / Electronic Control Unit (ECU) data
• Event Data Recorder (EDR) data
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
• GPS and telematics data
• Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
• Dispatch communications and messaging
• Cell phone records and text messages
• Qualcomm or fleet management system data

Driver Records:

• Complete Driver Qualification File
• Employment application and resume
• Background check and driving record
• Previous employer verification
• Medical certification and exam records
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training records and certifications
• Previous accident and violation history
• Performance reviews and disciplinary records

Vehicle Records:

• Maintenance and repair records
• Inspection reports (pre-trip, post-trip, annual)
• Out-of-service orders and repairs
• Tire records and replacement history
• Brake inspection and adjustment records
• Parts purchase and installation records

Company Records:

• Hours of service records for 6 months prior
• Dispatch logs and trip records
• Bills of lading and cargo documentation
• Insurance policies
• Safety policies and procedures
• Training curricula
• Hiring and supervision policies

Physical Evidence:

• The truck and trailer themselves
• Failed or damaged components
• Cargo and securement devices
• Tire remnants if blowout involved

ECM/Black Box Data: The Truth Machine

Commercial trucks have electronic systems that continuously record operational data—similar to an airplane’s black box. This data is objective and tamper-resistant, making it some of the most powerful evidence in trucking accident cases.

Types of Electronic Recording Systems:

Critical Data Points from ECM/Black Box:

• Speed Before Crash: Proves speeding or excessive speed for conditions
• Brake Application: Shows when and how hard brakes were applied
• Throttle Position: Reveals if driver was accelerating or coasting
• Following Distance: Calculated from speed and deceleration data
• Hours of Service: Proves fatigue and HOS violations
• GPS Location: Confirms route and timing
• Fault Codes: May reveal known mechanical issues driver ignored

This objective data often contradicts driver claims and can be the key to proving liability in your case.

How We Build Your Briar 18-Wheeler Accident Case

At Attorney911, we approach every trucking accident case with a comprehensive investigation strategy designed to maximize your compensation. Our process includes:

Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)

• Accept your case and send preservation letters the same day
• Deploy accident reconstruction experts to the scene if needed
• Obtain the police crash report
• Photograph your injuries with medical documentation
• Photograph all vehicles before they are repaired or scrapped
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

• Subpoena ECM/black box data downloads
• Request driver’s paper log books (backup documentation)
• Obtain complete Driver Qualification File from carrier
• Request all truck maintenance and inspection records
• Obtain carrier’s CSA safety scores and inspection history
• Order driver’s complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
• Subpoena driver’s cell phone records
• Obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules

Phase 3: Expert Analysis

• Accident reconstruction specialist creates crash analysis
• Medical experts establish causation and future care needs
• Vocational experts calculate lost earning capacity
• Economic experts determine present value of all damages
• Life care planners develop comprehensive care plans for catastrophic injuries
• FMCSA regulation experts identify all violations

Phase 4: Litigation Strategy

• File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires (2 years in Texas)
• Pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
• Depose truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, maintenance personnel
• Build case for trial while negotiating settlement from position of strength
• Prepare every case as if going to trial (this creates leverage in negotiations)

Insurance Coverage in Briar Trucking Accidents

Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance far exceeding typical auto policies:

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more in coverage. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.

Damages You Can Recover in Your Briar Trucking Accident Case

Texas law allows you to recover both economic and non-economic damages in trucking accident cases:

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

• Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to injury and recovery
• Lost Earning Capacity: Reduction in future earning ability
• Property Damage: Vehicle repair or replacement
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications
• Life Care Costs: Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain from injuries
• Mental Anguish: Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression
• Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in activities
• Disfigurement: Scarring, visible injuries
• Loss of Consortium: Impact on marriage/family relationships
• Physical Impairment: Reduced physical capabilities

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company or driver acted with:

• Gross negligence
• Willful misconduct
• Conscious indifference to safety
• Fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence)

Texas law limits punitive damages to the greater of:

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

Nuclear Verdicts: What’s Possible in Briar Trucking Cases

The trucking industry has seen a dramatic increase in “nuclear verdicts”—jury awards exceeding $10 million. These massive verdicts reflect juries’ growing frustration with trucking companies that prioritize profits over safety.

Recent Nuclear Verdicts in Trucking Cases:

Why Nuclear Verdicts Happen:

Juries award massive verdicts when they find:

• Trucking company knowingly hired dangerous drivers
• Company ignored safety violations for profit
• Evidence was destroyed (spoliation)
• Falsified hours-of-service logs
• Pattern of similar violations
• Corporate culture prioritizing profit over safety
• Egregious disregard for human life

These verdicts show what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable, and they strengthen our position in settlement negotiations.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Briar 18-Wheeler Accident Case

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident in Briar, you need an attorney with the experience, resources, and determination to take on the trucking industry. At Attorney911, we offer:

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998. With over 25 years of courtroom experience, he has recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes.

Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas—a critical advantage for interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court.

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company 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 their tactics from the inside. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

Deep Familiarity with Briar’s Trucking Corridors

We know Briar’s highways, distribution centers, and accident patterns. Our local knowledge combined with our understanding of FMCSA regulations gives us an advantage in building your case.

Proven Track Record of Multi-Million Dollar Results

We have secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts 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

Aggressive Evidence Preservation

We act immediately to preserve critical evidence. Our team sends spoliation letters within hours of being retained, demanding preservation of ECM data, ELD records, maintenance logs, and other evidence before it can be destroyed.

Comprehensive Investigation Resources

We work with top accident reconstruction experts, medical specialists, vocational experts, and economic analysts to build the strongest possible case for maximum compensation.

Willingness to Go to Trial

While most cases settle, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach creates leverage in negotiations and demonstrates to insurance companies that we’re ready to fight for your rights in court.

Compassionate, Personalized Representation

We treat every client like family. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your questions and guide you through the legal process. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll of a catastrophic accident, and we’re committed to helping you rebuild your life.

Fluency in Spanish

Briar has a significant Hispanic community, and we’re proud to serve Spanish-speaking clients directly. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides representation without the need for interpreters. Hablamos Español.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Briar

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Briar, take these steps to protect your health and your legal rights:

1. Call 911 and report the accident

   • Request police and emergency medical services
   • Report all injuries, no matter how minor they seem

2. Seek medical attention immediately

   • Adrenaline can mask serious injuries
   • Some injuries (TBI, internal bleeding) may not show symptoms right away
   • Medical records create critical evidence for your case

3. Document the scene

   • Take photos of all vehicle damage (inside and out)
   • Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, and skid marks
   • Get the truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company information
   • Collect witness contact information

4. Do NOT give recorded statements to insurance companies

   • Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you
   • Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim
   • Let your attorney handle all communications

5. Contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately

   • Critical evidence disappears quickly
   • We send preservation letters within 24-48 hours
   • The sooner you call, the stronger your case will be

Frequently Asked Questions About Briar 18-Wheeler Accidents

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Briar, take these steps immediately if you’re able:

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
• Document the scene with photos and video if possible
• Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
• Collect witness contact information
• Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
• Call 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. Briar’s medical facilities, including Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Alliance and Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center, 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 in Briar?

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 Briar?

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 Briar?

Multiple parties may be liable in trucking accidents:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company/motor carrier
• The cargo owner or shipper
• The company that loaded the cargo
• Truck or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers
• The truck owner (if different from carrier)
• Government entities (for road defects)

We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?

Usually YES. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for:

• Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified drivers)
• Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
• Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
• Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)

What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs—the data tells the true story.

What is a truck’s “black box” and how does it help my case?

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data—similar to 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 and can be the key to proving liability.

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 and can establish liability for the trucking company.

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.

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Briar?

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 Briar?

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 Briar?

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.

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 an 18-wheeler accident in Briar, time is critical. Evidence is disappearing every hour, and the trucking company has lawyers working to protect their interests. You need someone fighting for you.

At Attorney911, we offer:

• Free consultations with no obligation
• 24/7 availability—we answer your call immediately
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