18-Wheeler Accidents in Dallas: Your Complete Legal Guide

If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Dallas, you’re facing one of the most complex and high-stakes legal battles in personal injury law. The trucking industry has teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim, and the evidence that could prove your case disappears quickly. This guide explains everything you need to know about Dallas trucking accidents, from immediate steps to take after a crash to how we fight for maximum compensation.

Why Dallas 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different

Dallas sits at the crossroads of America’s trucking industry. I-35, I-20, and I-45 converge here, carrying massive freight volumes between Mexico, the Gulf Coast, and the Midwest. The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex is home to over 7 million people and thousands of distribution centers, creating a perfect storm of high truck traffic and congested highways.

Every year, hundreds of catastrophic trucking accidents occur on Dallas highways. The size disparity between an 80,000-pound 18-wheeler and your 4,000-pound car means these accidents often result in life-altering injuries or wrongful death. Unlike typical car accidents, trucking cases involve:

• Federal safety regulations (FMCSA)
• Multiple liable parties (driver, company, cargo owner, etc.)
• Complex insurance policies with high limits
• Rapidly disappearing evidence
• Corporate defendants with aggressive legal teams

What To Do Immediately After a Dallas Trucking Accident

Your actions in the first 48 hours after an 18-wheeler accident in Dallas can make or break your case.

At the Scene (If You’re Able)

1. Call 911 immediately – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Document everything – Take photos of:
   • All vehicles involved (including license plates)
   • Damage to your vehicle (inside and out)
   • The truck’s DOT number and company name
   • Road conditions, skid marks, debris
   • Your injuries
   • Traffic signals and signs
   • Witnesses (get names and contact information)
3. Get the truck driver’s information – Name, CDL number, insurance details
4. Identify the trucking company – Look for logos, DOT numbers, dispatch information
5. Do NOT admit fault – Even saying “I’m sorry” can be used against you
6. Avoid talking to insurance adjusters – Politely decline to give statements

In the Hospital

1. Follow all medical advice – Your health comes first, and your medical records become critical evidence
2. Document your injuries – Take photos as they heal or worsen
3. Keep all medical records – Save every bill, prescription, and doctor’s note
4. Track missed work – Document all time off and lost wages
5. Contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney – Time is critical for evidence preservation

Critical Evidence That Disappears Fast

Evidence Type	Why It Matters	How Fast It Disappears
ECM/Black Box Data	Shows speed, braking, throttle position	30 days or with new driving events
ELD Records	Proves hours of service violations	6 months (FMCSA requirement)
Dashcam Footage	Captures the accident as it happened	7-14 days (automatic overwrite)
Surveillance Video	Shows accident from nearby businesses	7-30 days (automatic overwrite)
Physical Evidence	Damaged vehicles, failed components	Trucks repaired or sold quickly
Witness Memory	Eyewitness accounts	Fades significantly within weeks

Common Causes of Dallas 18-Wheeler Accidents

Dallas’s unique trucking corridors create specific accident patterns. Understanding these causes helps build your case.

Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)

Dallas truck drivers often push limits to meet tight delivery schedules. FMCSA regulations limit driving time, but violations are common:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit – Maximum 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour On-Duty Window – Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• 30-Minute Break Rule – Required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit – 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days

How We Prove Fatigue:

• ELD data showing driving beyond limits
• Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
• Cell phone records showing late-night driving
• Driver log falsification

Dallas-Specific Trucking Corridors

Corridor	Common Accident Types	Why It’s Dangerous
I-35 (NAFTA Corridor)	Rear-end, jackknife, cargo spills	High truck volume, Mexico-bound freight, frequent lane changes
I-20 (East-West Freight)	Rollover, tire blowouts, underride	Long straight stretches encourage speeding, heavy crosswinds
I-45 (Gulf Coast Connection)	Blind spot, wide turn, rear-end	Mix of local and long-haul traffic, construction zones
I-30 (Dallas to Texarkana)	Head-on, rollover, brake failure	Mountainous terrain in Arkansas, runaway truck risks
US-75 (Central Expressway)	Sideswipe, intersection, pedestrian	Urban congestion, tight delivery windows
I-635 (LBJ Freeway)	Multi-vehicle pileups, jackknife	Heavy truck traffic, frequent lane changes, construction
Dallas North Tollway	Underride, sideswipe, rear-end	High-speed mix of cars and trucks, toll plaza congestion

Other Common Causes

1. Distracted Driving – Cell phones, GPS, dispatch communications
2. Improper Maintenance – Brake failures, tire blowouts, lighting issues
3. Cargo Securement Failures – Shifting loads, spilled cargo
4. Driver Inexperience – Inadequate training on Dallas routes
5. Drugs and Alcohol – Failed pre-employment or random tests
6. Aggressive Driving – Speeding, tailgating, unsafe lane changes
7. Weather Conditions – Ice storms, flash flooding, high winds
8. Road Design Flaws – Poor signage, inadequate runaway ramps

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Dallas

Jackknife Accidents

What Happens: The trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes.

Dallas Hotspots:

• I-35 near downtown Dallas
• I-20 at the interchange with I-635
• I-45 approaching the High Five Interchange

Common Causes:

• Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
• Speeding on curves
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers
• Brake system failures

Injuries:

• Multi-vehicle pileups
• Crushing injuries
• TBI from high-impact collisions
• Wrongful death

Underride Collisions

What Happens: A passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer, often shearing off the roof.

Dallas Statistics:

• Approximately 400 underride deaths occur annually nationwide
• Side underride guards are not federally required
• Rear underride guards must meet specific standards but often fail

Common Causes:

• Inadequate or missing underride guards
• Poor lighting or visibility
• Sudden truck stops
• Trucks making wide turns

Injuries:

• Decapitation
• Catastrophic head and neck trauma
• Wrongful death (often fatal)

Rollover Accidents

What Happens: The truck tips onto its side, often spilling cargo and blocking multiple lanes.

Dallas Hotspots:

• I-30 near the I-35E interchange
• I-20 at the curve near Grand Prairie
• US-75 at the High Five Interchange

Common Causes:

• Speeding on curves
• Improperly secured cargo
• Liquid cargo “slosh”
• Driver overcorrection
• Poor road design

Injuries:

• Crushing injuries from overturned trailer
• Cargo spills causing secondary accidents
• TBI from high-impact forces
• Wrongful death

Rear-End Collisions

What Happens: An 18-wheeler strikes the back of a passenger vehicle.

Dallas Statistics:

• Trucks require 40% more stopping distance than cars
• A fully loaded truck at 65 mph needs 525 feet to stop
• Rear-end collisions are the second most common truck accident type

Common Causes:

• Following too closely
• Driver distraction
• Brake failures
• Driver fatigue
• Speeding

Injuries:

• Whiplash and spinal injuries
• TBI from sudden impact
• Internal organ damage
• Wrongful death

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

What Happens: The truck swings wide before making a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. The truck then completes the turn, crushing the vehicle.

Dallas Hotspots:

• Downtown Dallas intersections
• Industrial areas with tight turns
• Areas with limited turning space

Common Causes:

• Failure to signal properly
• Inadequate mirror checks
• Improper turn technique
• Driver inexperience

Injuries:

• Crushing injuries
• Pedestrian and cyclist fatalities
• Amputations
• TBI

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)

What Happens: The truck changes lanes without seeing a vehicle in its blind spot.

Dallas No-Zones:

1. Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
2. Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
3. Left Side No-Zone: From cab door backward
4. Right Side No-Zone: From cab door backward (largest blind spot)

Common Causes:

• Failure to check mirrors
• Improperly adjusted mirrors
• Driver distraction
• Failure to signal

Injuries:

• Sideswipe injuries
• Vehicle rollovers
• Ejection from vehicle
• TBI

Tire Blowout Accidents

What Happens: A tire fails suddenly, causing the driver to lose control.

Dallas Statistics:

• 11,000+ tire-related crashes annually nationwide
• 738 fatalities in 2017 from tire blowouts
• Heat and long hauls increase blowout risk

Common Causes:

• Underinflated tires
• Overloaded vehicles
• Worn or aging tires
• Road debris
• Manufacturing defects

Injuries:

• Loss of control accidents
• Multi-vehicle pileups
• Debris striking other vehicles
• TBI and wrongful death

Brake Failure Accidents

What Happens: The truck’s braking system fails, preventing the driver from stopping.

Dallas Statistics:

• Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes
• Brake violations are among the most common FMCSA out-of-service violations

Common Causes:

• Worn brake pads/shoes
• Improper brake adjustment
• Air brake system leaks
• Overheated brakes
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Deferred maintenance

Injuries:

• High-speed impact collisions
• Multi-vehicle pileups
• TBI from sudden impact
• Wrongful death

Catastrophic Injuries from Dallas Trucking Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

What It Is: Damage to the brain from sudden trauma.

Severity Levels:

Level	Symptoms	Dallas Treatment Centers
Mild (Concussion)	Headache, confusion, brief unconsciousness	Baylor University Medical Center, UT Southwestern
Moderate	Extended unconsciousness, memory problems	Parkland Memorial Hospital, Methodist Dallas
Severe	Extended coma, permanent impairment	Texas Health Presbyterian Dallas, Children’s Medical Center

Lifetime Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+

Spinal Cord Injury

What It Is: Damage to the spinal cord disrupting communication between brain and body.

Types of Paralysis:

Type	Definition	Dallas Rehabilitation Centers
Paraplegia	Loss of function below the waist	Baylor Institute for Rehabilitation
Quadriplegia	Loss of function in all four limbs	UT Southwestern Spinal Cord Injury Program
Incomplete	Some nerve function remains	Texas NeuroRehab Center
Complete	No nerve function below injury	TIRR Memorial Hermann (Houston)

Lifetime Costs:

• Paraplegia: $1.1 million to $2.5 million
• Quadriplegia: $3.5 million to $5 million

Amputation

What It Is: Loss of limb due to traumatic injury or surgical removal.

Dallas Prosthetic Providers:

• Hanger Clinic
• Advanced Arm Dynamics
• Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children

Lifetime Costs: $500,000 to $1.5 million (including prosthetics)

Severe Burns

What It Is: Thermal, chemical, or electrical burns requiring extensive treatment.

Dallas Burn Centers:

• Parkland Memorial Hospital Burn Center (one of largest in US)
• UT Southwestern Medical Center

Treatment Includes:

• Skin grafts
• Multiple reconstructive surgeries
• Physical therapy
• Psychological counseling

Internal Organ Damage

Common Injuries:

• Liver laceration
• Spleen rupture
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusion
• Internal bleeding

Dallas Trauma Centers:

• Parkland Memorial Hospital (Level I)
• Baylor University Medical Center (Level I)
• Methodist Dallas Medical Center (Level I)

Wrongful Death

Who Can Bring a Claim:

• Surviving spouse
• Children (minor and adult)
• Parents (if no spouse or children)
• Estate representative

Damages Available:

• Lost future income
• Loss of consortium
• Mental anguish
• Funeral expenses
• Punitive damages

Who’s Liable in Your Dallas Trucking Accident?

Multiple parties may share responsibility for your injuries. We investigate every potential defendant to maximize your recovery.

The Truck Driver

Potential Liability:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone, GPS, dispatch)
• Fatigued driving (HOS violations)
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper inspections
• Traffic law violations

Evidence We Pursue:

• Driving record
• ELD data
• Drug/alcohol test results
• Cell phone records
• Training records

The Trucking Company

Potential Liability:

Vicarious Liability:

• Driver was an employee (not independent contractor)
• Acting within scope of employment
• Performing job duties when accident occurred

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent Hiring: Failed to check background or qualifications
• Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
• Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance
• Negligent Maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate HOS

Evidence We Pursue:

• Driver Qualification File
• Hiring policies
• Training records
• Dispatch logs
• Maintenance records
• CSA safety scores

Cargo Owner/Shipper

Potential Liability:

• Provided improper loading instructions
• Failed to disclose hazardous cargo
• Required overweight loading
• Pressured carrier to expedite

Evidence We Pursue:

• Shipping contracts
• Loading instructions
• Cargo manifests
• Weight certifications

Cargo Loading Company

Potential Liability:

• Improper cargo securement
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding weight ratings
• Failure to train loaders

Evidence We Pursue:

• Loading procedures
• Loader training records
• Securement equipment used
• Weight distribution documentation

Truck/Trailer Manufacturer

Potential Liability:

• Design defects
• Manufacturing defects
• Failure to warn
• Defective safety systems

Evidence We Pursue:

• Recall notices
• Similar defect complaints
• Design specifications
• Component failure analysis

Parts Manufacturer

Potential Liability:

• Defective brakes
• Defective tires
• Defective steering components
• Defective lighting

Evidence We Pursue:

• Failed component analysis
• Recall history
• Similar failure patterns

Maintenance Company

Potential Liability:

• Negligent repairs
• Failure to identify safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard parts

Evidence We Pursue:

• Work orders
• Mechanic qualifications
• Parts used
• Inspection reports

Freight Broker

Potential Liability:

• Negligent carrier selection
• Failure to verify insurance
• Failure to check safety record

Evidence We Pursue:

• Broker-carrier agreements
• Selection criteria
• Carrier safety records

Government Entity

Potential Liability:

• Dangerous road design
• Failure to maintain roads
• Inadequate signage
• Failure to install safety barriers

Special Considerations:

• Sovereign immunity limits
• Strict notice requirements
• Short deadlines

FMCSA Regulations: The Key to Proving Negligence

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations establish the safety standards for all commercial trucks operating in Dallas. Violations of these regulations create strong evidence of negligence.

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

Property-Carrying Drivers:

Rule	Requirement	Dallas-Specific Considerations
11-Hour Driving Limit	Max 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off	Dallas drivers often push limits to meet tight delivery schedules
14-Hour On-Duty Window	Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour	Early morning deliveries create fatigue risks
30-Minute Break	Required after 8 cumulative hours of driving	Drivers skip breaks to beat Dallas traffic
60/70-Hour Limit	60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days	Long-haul drivers from Mexico often violate weekly limits
34-Hour Restart	Can restart 60/70-hour clock with 34 consecutive hours off	Drivers often work through weekends to maximize earnings

How We Prove HOS Violations in Dallas:

• ELD data showing driving beyond limits
• Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
• Cell phone records showing late-night driving
• Driver log falsification

Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR § 391)

Minimum Requirements:

• At least 21 years old (18 for intrastate)
• Can read and speak English sufficiently
• Physically qualified
• Valid CDL
• Completed road test
• Not disqualified

Driver Qualification File Must Include:

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

Dallas-Specific Issues:

• Many drivers have suspended licenses from other states
• Medical certifications often expire without renewal
• Background checks are frequently incomplete

Vehicle Safety Standards (49 CFR § 393)

Critical Requirements:

System	Requirement	Common Dallas Violations
Brakes	Properly functioning on all wheels	Worn brake pads, improper adjustment
Tires	Minimum tread depth (4/32″ steer, 2/32″ others)	Underinflated tires, worn treads
Lighting	Headlamps, tail lamps, reflectors	Burned-out bulbs, missing reflectors
Cargo Securement	Must withstand 0.8g deceleration	Inadequate tiedowns, improper loading
Underride Guards	Required on trailers manufactured after 1998	Missing or damaged guards

Inspection and Maintenance (49 CFR § 396)

Requirements:

• Systematic inspection and maintenance program
• Driver pre-trip inspections
• Annual comprehensive inspections
• Maintenance records retention (1 year)

Common Dallas Violations:

• Deferred maintenance to save costs
• Incomplete inspection reports
• Failure to address known defects
• Using unqualified mechanics

Evidence Preservation: The 48-Hour Protocol

Evidence in Dallas trucking accident cases disappears faster than you think. We act immediately to preserve critical evidence.

The Spoliation Letter

What It Is: A formal legal notice demanding preservation of all evidence.

When We Send It: Within 24-48 hours of being retained.

What It Demands:

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

Electronic Data Preservation

ECM/Black Box Data:

• Records speed, braking, throttle position
• Can be overwritten in 30 days
• Shows exactly what happened before the crash

ELD Data:

• Proves hours of service compliance
• Shows GPS location and driving time
• Federally mandated since 2017

GPS/Telematics:

• Real-time location history
• Speed and route data
• Driver behavior metrics

Physical Evidence Preservation

The Truck and Trailer:

• Must be preserved in post-accident condition
• Often repaired or sold quickly without notice

Failed Components:

• Tires, brakes, steering parts
• Must be preserved for expert analysis

Cargo:

• Securement devices
• Load distribution
• Hazardous material documentation

Witness Evidence

Eyewitnesses:

• Memories fade quickly
• Must be interviewed before they forget details

First Responders:

• Police reports
• EMT observations
• Fire department reports

Dallas-Specific Trucking Industry Factors

Dallas’s position as a major trucking hub creates unique factors that affect your case.

Major Dallas Trucking Companies

Company	Headquarters	Dallas Presence	Specialization
Swift Transportation	Phoenix, AZ	Major Dallas terminal	General freight
Werner Enterprises	Omaha, NE	Dallas hub	Intermodal, refrigerated
JB Hunt	Lowell, AR	Dallas operations	Intermodal, dedicated
Schneider National	Green Bay, WI	Dallas facility	Bulk, intermodal
Heartland Express	North Liberty, IA	Dallas terminal	General freight
Knight Transportation	Phoenix, AZ	Dallas operations	Dry van, refrigerated
CRST International	Cedar Rapids, IA	Dallas presence	Flatbed, specialized
TMC Transportation	Des Moines, IA	Dallas terminal	Flatbed, specialized

Dallas Distribution Centers

Dallas is home to massive distribution centers that generate significant truck traffic:

• Amazon DFW7 (Haslet) – 3.8 million sq ft
• Walmart Distribution Center (Garland) – 1.2 million sq ft
• Target Distribution Center (Midlothian) – 1.9 million sq ft
• Home Depot Distribution Center (Grand Prairie) – 1.5 million sq ft
• Kroger Distribution Center (Northlake) – 1 million sq ft
• FedEx Ground Hub (Grapevine) – Major sorting facility

Dallas Ports of Entry

Dallas serves as a major inland port for international freight:

• Dallas-Fort Worth Inland Port – Rail and truck transfer facility
• Alliance Global Logistics Hub – 18,000-acre intermodal facility
• BNSF Intermodal Facility (Haslet) – Major rail-truck transfer point

Dallas Weigh Stations

Dallas has multiple weigh stations that provide valuable evidence:

• I-35 Northbound (Denton County)
• I-35 Southbound (Denton County)
• I-20 Westbound (Tarrant County)
• I-45 Northbound (Collin County)

Weigh station records can show:

• Vehicle weight (overloaded trucks)
• Inspection violations
• Driver hours of service
• Safety compliance

Dallas-Specific Weather Hazards

Hazard	Season	Affected Corridors	Impact on Trucking
Ice Storms	Winter	All major highways	Brake failures, jackknife accidents
Flash Flooding	Spring/Fall	Low-lying areas, underpasses	Loss of control, cargo spills
High Winds	Year-round	I-20, I-30, open stretches	Rollover risk for high-profile trailers
Extreme Heat	Summer	All highways	Tire blowouts, engine overheating
Dust Storms	Summer	I-20 west of Dallas	Reduced visibility, multi-vehicle crashes

How We Build Your Dallas Trucking Accident Case

Our comprehensive approach ensures no stone is left unturned in pursuing maximum compensation for your injuries.

Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)

• Accept your case and send spoliation letters same day
• Deploy accident reconstruction expert to scene if needed
• Obtain police crash report
• Photograph your injuries with medical documentation
• Photograph all vehicles before they’re 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
• 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
• Secure surveillance video from nearby businesses
• Interview witnesses before memories fade

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
• FMCSA regulation experts identify all violations
• Trucking industry experts analyze carrier practices

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 (creates leverage in negotiations)

Dallas Trucking Accident Statistics

Understanding the scope of the problem helps build your case.

National Statistics

• 5,100+ fatalities annually in large truck crashes
• 125,000+ injuries annually
• 76% of fatalities are occupants of other vehicles
• 11% of all traffic fatalities involve large trucks
• 18-wheelers are 20-25 times heavier than passenger vehicles

Dallas-Specific Statistics

Metric	Dallas Data	Source
Truck Accidents (Annual)	1,200+	Texas DOT CRIS
Truck Accident Fatalities (Annual)	30-50	Texas DOT CRIS
Truck Accident Injuries (Annual)	800+	Texas DOT CRIS
Most Dangerous Corridor	I-35 (NAFTA Corridor)	Texas DOT
Most Common Accident Type	Rear-end collisions	NHTSA
Highest Risk Time	6:00 AM – 9:00 AM (rush hour)	Texas DOT
Highest Risk Day	Friday (end-of-week fatigue)	Texas DOT

Dallas Trucking Industry Economic Impact

Metric	Dallas Data	Impact on Your Case
Trucking Industry Employment	120,000+	More potential defendants
Annual Freight Volume	500+ million tons	Higher truck traffic = more accidents
Trucks Entering/Leaving Daily	50,000+	More potential liable parties
Distribution Centers	500+	More loading company defendants
Trucking Companies Based in DFW	5,000+	Local defendants with deep pockets

Dallas Trucking Accident Verdicts and Settlements

While every case is unique, these examples show what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

Recent Major Dallas Trucking Verdicts

Case	Year	Amount	Key Factors
Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger	2021	$730 Million	Oversize load killed 73-year-old woman; gross negligence
Werner Settlement	2022	$150 Million	Two children killed on I-30; largest trucking settlement in US history
Dallas Underride Case	2023	$45 Million	Underride collision caused catastrophic injuries
I-35 Jackknife Case	2024	$28 Million	Multi-vehicle pileup caused by fatigued driving

Factors That Increase Case Value

1. Clear Liability – The trucking company is obviously at fault
2. Catastrophic Injuries – TBI, spinal cord injury, amputation, wrongful death
3. Gross Negligence – Falsified logs, pattern of violations, spoliation
4. Deep Pockets – Large trucking company with high insurance limits
5. Dallas Jury Pool – Dallas juries have shown willingness to hold corporations accountable

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Dallas Trucking Case

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting trucking companies since 1998. His experience includes:

• Recovering multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts
• Handling cases against Fortune 500 trucking operations
• Federal court admission to the Southern District of Texas
• BP Texas City explosion litigation experience
• Former insurance defense attorney on staff

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Tactics

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. This gives us a strategic advantage in:

• Countering lowball settlement offers
• Exposing manipulation tactics
• Maximizing your recovery

Dallas-Specific Expertise

We know Dallas’s trucking corridors, weigh stations, distribution centers, and accident patterns. This local knowledge gives us an edge in building your case:

• I-35 NAFTA Corridor – High volume, Mexico-bound freight
• I-20 East-West Freight – Long-haul traffic, crosswind risks
• I-45 Gulf Coast Connection – Mix of local and long-haul
• Alliance Global Logistics Hub – Intermodal transfer risks
• Dallas Weigh Stations – Inspection violation patterns
• DFW Distribution Centers – Loading company liability

Proven Track Record

Our firm has recovered millions for Dallas trucking accident victims:

• $5+ million for a logging accident brain injury
• $3.8+ million for a car accident amputation
• $2.5+ million for a truck crash recovery
• $2+ million for a maritime back injury
• Millions for families in wrongful death cases

Comprehensive Resources

We have the resources to take on the trucking industry:

• Accident reconstruction experts
• Medical specialists
• Vocational experts
• Economic damage analysts
• Life care planners
• FMCSA regulation experts

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation.

Dallas-Specific Legal Considerations

Texas Statute of Limitations

• Personal Injury: 2 years from date of accident
• Wrongful Death: 2 years from date of death
• Property Damage: 2 years from date of accident

Important: Evidence disappears quickly. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

Texas Comparative Negligence Rule

Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” system:

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

Example: If you’re 20% at fault and your damages are $1,000,000, you recover $800,000.

Texas Damage Caps

Texas has complex damage caps in certain cases:

• Non-Economic Damages: No cap in most personal injury cases
• Punitive Damages: Greater of (2x economic + non-economic capped at $750K) OR $200K
• Government Defendants: $250,000 per person, $500,000 per occurrence

Important: Most trucking cases are NOT subject to damage caps.

Dallas Courts

Your case may be filed in one of these courts:

Court	Jurisdiction	Typical Cases
Dallas County District Court	$200+ in damages	Catastrophic injury cases
Dallas County Court at Law	$200-$200,000 in damages	Moderate injury cases
Justice of the Peace Courts	Up to $20,000 in damages	Minor injury cases
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas	Federal questions, diversity	Interstate trucking cases

What to Expect in Your Dallas Trucking Case

Initial Consultation

• Free case evaluation
• Explanation of your legal rights
• Discussion of potential case value
• No obligation to proceed

Case Investigation

• Immediate evidence preservation
• Accident reconstruction
• Expert witness retention
• Medical record collection

Demand Package

• Comprehensive demand letter to insurance companies
• Calculation of all damages
• Presentation of liability evidence
• Settlement negotiations

Litigation (If Necessary)

• Filing of lawsuit
• Discovery process
• Depositions
• Motion practice
• Trial preparation

Resolution

• Settlement negotiations
• Mediation
• Trial (if necessary)
• Collection of judgment

Dallas Trucking Accident Client Testimonials

“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

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client

“Ralph reached out personally.”
— Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client

“I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
— Donald Wilcox, Attorney911 Client

Frequently Asked Questions About Dallas Trucking Accidents

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

1. Call 911 and report the accident
2. Seek medical attention immediately
3. Document the scene with photos and video
4. Get the truck driver’s information (name, CDL number, insurance)
5. Identify the trucking company (look for logos, DOT numbers)
6. Collect witness contact information
7. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
8. Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately

How much is my Dallas trucking accident case worth?

Case value depends on many factors:

• Severity of your injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
• Insurance coverage available

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a Dallas trucking accident?

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.

Will my 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.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. As long as you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How long will my case take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

• Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
• Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
• Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

We investigate all potential defendants to ensure you can recover compensation. Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, other parties (cargo owner, loading company, manufacturer) may still be liable.

Can I still recover if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Yes. Even if the driver owns their own truck, both the driver and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships to maximize your recovery.

What if I don’t have health insurance?

We can help you get medical treatment through:

• Letters of Protection (LOP) with medical providers
• Medical funding companies
• Your own health insurance (if available)
• Government programs

You won’t be denied medical care because of lack of insurance.

How much does it cost to hire an 18-wheeler accident attorney?

We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

Dallas Trucking Accident Resources

Dallas Hospitals and Trauma Centers

Hospital	Level	Address	Phone
Parkland Memorial Hospital	I	5201 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas	(214) 590-8000
Baylor University Medical Center	I	3500 Gaston Ave, Dallas	(214) 820-0111
Methodist Dallas Medical Center	I	1441 N Beckley Ave, Dallas	(214) 947-8181
UT Southwestern Medical Center	I	5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas	(214) 648-3111
Texas Health Presbyterian Dallas	II	8200 Walnut Hill Ln, Dallas	(214) 345-6789

Dallas Rehabilitation Centers

Facility	Specialization	Address	Phone
Baylor Institute for Rehabilitation	Spinal cord, TBI	909 N Washington Ave, Dallas	(214) 820-9000
UT Southwestern Spinal Cord Injury Program	Spinal cord	5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas	(214) 645-8300
Texas NeuroRehab Center	Neurological	1106 W Dittmar Rd, Austin	(512) 444-4835
Pate Rehabilitation	Brain injury	2655 Villa Creek Dr #145, Dallas	(972) 241-9334

Dallas Legal Resources

Resource	Contact Information	Services
Dallas Bar Association	(214) 220-7480	Lawyer referrals
Texas RioGrande Legal Aid	(214) 748-1234	Free legal services for low-income individuals
Dallas County District Attorney	(214) 653-3600	Criminal cases involving trucking accidents
Texas Department of Transportation	(214) 320-4480	Road condition reports, crash data
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration	(800) 832-5660	Trucking company safety records

Dallas Support Groups

Group	Contact Information	Focus
Brain Injury Association of Texas	(800) 392-0040	TBI support
Texas Spinal Cord Injury Association	(888) 391-9255	Spinal cord injury support
Amputee Coalition	(888) 267-5669	Amputee support
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)	(214) 637-0990	Victim support
Texas Wrongful Death Support Group	(Various)	Grief support for families

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Dallas, time is critical. Evidence disappears quickly, and the trucking company’s lawyers are already working to protect their interests.

Call Us Now: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

We’re available 24/7 to answer your call. When you contact us:

1. We’ll provide a free, no-obligation case evaluation
2. We’ll explain your legal rights and options
3. We’ll send preservation letters immediately to protect evidence
4. We’ll guide you through the next steps
5. We’ll fight for the maximum compensation you deserve

Why Call Attorney911?

✅ 25+ years of trucking litigation experience
✅ Former insurance defense attorney on staff
✅ Dallas-specific expertise
✅ Proven multi-million dollar results
✅ No fee unless we win
✅ 24/7 availability

Don’t Wait – Evidence Disappears Fast

• Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days
• ELD records may be deleted after 6 months
• Dashcam footage is often erased within 7-14 days
• Witness memories fade quickly
• Physical evidence can be repaired or sold

We Fight for Dallas Trucking Accident Victims

We know Dallas’s highways, trucking corridors, and courtrooms. We’ve recovered millions for victims just like you. When an 80,000-pound truck changes your life forever, you need a lawyer who will fight like your future depends on it – because it does.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free consultation.