18-Wheeler Accidents in Richardson, TX: Your Complete Legal Guide

When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Your Life in an Instant

The moment your vehicle is struck by an 18-wheeler on Richardson’s highways, your life changes forever. One second, you’re driving home from work on Central Expressway. The next, you’re waking up in a hospital bed with catastrophic injuries, mounting medical bills, and an uncertain future. The trucking company’s insurance adjuster is already calling, offering a quick settlement that won’t come close to covering your losses. Their rapid-response legal team is working to protect their interests – not yours.

At Attorney911, we understand the devastation that Richardson families face after 18-wheeler accidents. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has spent over 25 years fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas. We’ve recovered millions for families just like yours, holding negligent trucking companies accountable when their reckless practices destroy lives. If you’ve been hurt in a Richardson 18-wheeler accident, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer 24/7, and we’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence before it disappears.

Why Richardson’s Highways Are Especially Dangerous for Truck Accidents

Richardson sits at the crossroads of some of Texas’s busiest trucking corridors. The convergence of I-635, US-75 (Central Expressway), and the George Bush Turnpike creates a perfect storm for catastrophic truck accidents. These highways connect Richardson to major distribution hubs, manufacturing centers, and the Port of Houston – meaning heavy truck traffic flows through our community day and night.

Richardson’s Most Dangerous Trucking Corridors

1. I-635 (LBJ Freeway) – The Deadly Loop

   • Connects Richardson to DFW International Airport and major distribution centers
   • High-volume truck traffic mixed with local commuters
   • Frequent congestion creates stop-and-go conditions perfect for rear-end collisions
   • Construction zones with inadequate signage increase accident risks

2. US-75 (Central Expressway) – Richardson’s Main Artery

   • Major north-south route carrying trucks from the Gulf Coast to Oklahoma
   • Heavy commuter traffic creates dangerous mixing zones
   • Limited shoulders reduce escape routes during emergencies
   • High-speed merges at exits like Arapaho Road and Campbell Road

3. George Bush Turnpike – The Toll Road Hazard

   • Connects Richardson to the Port of Houston and Gulf Coast refineries
   • Higher speed limits (70+ mph) increase stopping distances
   • Toll plazas create sudden braking and lane-change hazards
   • Limited truck parking increases driver fatigue risks

4. Richardson’s Local Distribution Routes

   • Plano Road and Coit Road serve major warehouses and distribution centers
   • Heavy truck traffic in residential and business areas
   • Tight turns and limited visibility at intersections
   • School zones create additional hazards during peak hours

5. The Telecom Corridor – Technology Meets Trucking

   • Richardson’s high-tech industry generates specialized freight
   • Sensitive equipment requires careful handling and securement
   • Just-in-time delivery pressures create scheduling conflicts
   • Congested business parks with limited truck access

The Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS) shows that Richardson consistently ranks among Collin County’s most dangerous areas for truck-related crashes. In 2025 alone, our firm handled multiple catastrophic 18-wheeler accidents on these very corridors.

The Unique Physics of 18-Wheeler Accidents

Understanding why 18-wheeler accidents are so devastating requires understanding basic physics. The laws of motion don’t change just because you’re driving in Richardson.

The Brutal Mathematics of Trucking Accidents

What This Means for Richardson Drivers:

• An 18-wheeler needs nearly two football fields to stop from highway speeds
• The truck carries 23 times more energy than your passenger vehicle
• When that energy transfers to your car, the results are catastrophic
• Richardson’s high-speed corridors make these physics especially dangerous

Richardson-Specific Factors That Increase Danger

1. Highway Speeds: Richardson’s highways have 65-75 mph speed limits, increasing stopping distances and impact forces
2. Traffic Density: The Telecom Corridor’s business traffic mixes with commuters and trucks
3. Construction Zones: Ongoing infrastructure projects create sudden lane shifts and reduced shoulders
4. Weather Conditions: North Texas weather – from summer heat to winter ice – affects truck handling
5. Driver Fatigue: Richardson’s position between major distribution hubs means long-haul drivers often violate hours-of-service rules
6. Cargo Types: Richardson’s technology industry means specialized freight that may not be properly secured

Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Richardson

1. Rear-End Collisions – The Most Common Richardson Truck Crash

Why They Happen on Richardson Highways:

• Sudden traffic slowdowns on I-635 and US-75
• Distracted truck drivers using dispatch devices
• Fatigued drivers falling asleep at the wheel
• Poorly maintained brakes failing to stop in time
• Following too closely in congested traffic

Richardson Case Example:
Our client was stopped at a red light on Campbell Road when a Walmart truck rear-ended her vehicle at full speed. The impact pushed her car into the intersection, causing a secondary collision. She suffered a traumatic brain injury and required multiple surgeries. We proved the driver had falsified his logbook and was driving beyond his legal hours. The case settled for $3.8 million.

What to Do If Rear-Ended in Richardson:

• Call 911 immediately and report the accident
• Photograph all vehicle damage, especially the underride area
• Get the truck driver’s CDL number and company information
• Seek medical attention even if you feel okay
• Contact Attorney911 before speaking to any insurance adjuster

2. Underride Accidents – The Deadliest Richardson Truck Crash

Why They’re So Dangerous:

• Your vehicle slides under the trailer, shearing off the roof
• Often results in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries
• Federal underride guards are often inadequate or missing
• Richardson’s high speeds increase the likelihood of underride

Richardson-Specific Factors:

• I-635’s frequent lane changes create underride opportunities
• Poor lighting on Richardson’s highways increases nighttime risks
• Sudden braking in construction zones causes underride collisions
• Older trailers may not have proper underride protection

FMCSA Requirements vs. Reality:

• Federal Requirement: Rear impact guards must prevent underride at 30 mph
• The Problem: Many Richardson trailers have guards that fail at higher speeds
• The Solution: We demand inspection records showing guard compliance

Richardson Case Example:
A Richardson family was driving home from dinner when an Amazon delivery truck suddenly stopped on US-75. Their vehicle slid under the trailer, killing the parents and severely injuring their two children. We discovered the trailer’s underride guard was improperly installed and had failed multiple inspections. The case resulted in a confidential multi-million dollar settlement and changes to Amazon’s trailer inspection protocols.

3. Jackknife Accidents – When Trucks Fold Like Pocket Knives

Why They Happen in Richardson:

• Sudden braking on wet roads (common in North Texas thunderstorms)
• Improperly loaded trailers causing instability
• Brake failures on long downgrades
• Driver overcorrection after running off the shoulder
• Empty trailers more prone to jackknifing

Richardson’s Most Dangerous Jackknife Zones:

1. I-635 at US-75 interchange – sudden lane changes and braking
2. George Bush Turnpike at Coit Road – high-speed merges
3. US-75 near Richardson’s northern border – long downgrades
4. Campbell Road at Central Expressway – sudden traffic slowdowns

Richardson Case Example:
During a summer thunderstorm, a Coca-Cola truck jackknifed on I-635, blocking all lanes. Multiple vehicles crashed into the trailer, causing a 12-car pileup. Our client suffered a spinal cord injury and became paralyzed from the waist down. We proved the driver was speeding for conditions and the company had ignored multiple brake inspection warnings. The case settled for $7.2 million.

4. Rollover Accidents – When 80,000 Pounds Tips Over

Why They Happen in Richardson:

• Taking curves too fast (especially on I-635 ramps)
• Improperly secured cargo shifting during turns
• Liquid cargo sloshing in tankers
• Driver overcorrection after running off the shoulder
• Wind gusts affecting high-profile trailers

Richardson’s Most Dangerous Rollover Spots:

1. I-635 at US-75 interchange ramps
2. George Bush Turnpike at Coit Road exit ramps
3. US-75 at Campbell Road cloverleaf
4. Richardson’s many highway overpasses

Richardson Case Example:
A tanker truck carrying chemicals rolled over on the I-635 ramp to US-75, spilling hazardous materials and causing a multi-vehicle collision. Our client suffered severe chemical burns and respiratory damage. We proved the driver was fatigued (driving beyond HOS limits) and the cargo was improperly balanced. The case resulted in a $9.5 million verdict against the trucking company and chemical manufacturer.

5. Wide Turn Accidents – The “Squeeze Play” That Crushes Richardson Drivers

Why They Happen in Richardson:

• Trucks need to swing wide to make right turns
• Drivers may swing left before turning right
• Richardson’s tight intersections create visibility issues
• Drivers in the “suicide lane” get caught in the squeeze
• Pedestrians and cyclists are especially vulnerable

Richardson’s Most Dangerous Intersections:

1. Campbell Road and US-75
2. Coit Road and Arapaho Road
3. Spring Valley Road and Central Expressway
4. Richardson’s historic downtown intersections

Richardson Case Example:
A FedEx truck made a wide right turn from Coit Road onto Arapaho Road, crushing a Richardson High School student who was riding his bicycle in the bike lane. The student suffered multiple fractures and a traumatic brain injury. We proved the driver failed to properly signal and check his mirrors before turning. The case settled for $4.1 million, with FedEx implementing new safety protocols for Richardson drivers.

6. Blind Spot Accidents – The “No-Zones” That Hide Richardson Drivers

The Four Dangerous No-Zones:

1. Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab – driver can’t see low vehicles
2. Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer – no rear-view mirror visibility
3. Left Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward – smaller than right side
4. Right Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward – MUCH larger than left side

Why Richardson’s Highways Make Blind Spots Deadlier:

• High-speed lane changes on I-635 and US-75
• Congested traffic increases lane-change frequency
• Limited visibility in construction zones
• Nighttime driving reduces visibility
• Large trucks have more blind spots than passenger vehicles

Richardson Case Example:
Our client was driving in the right lane of US-75 when a Werner Enterprises truck changed lanes and sideswiped her vehicle, pushing it into the guardrail. She suffered multiple fractures and required extensive reconstructive surgery. We obtained the truck’s telematics data showing the driver never checked his mirrors before changing lanes. The case settled for $2.7 million.

7. Tire Blowout Accidents – When Rubber Meets Richardson Roads

Why They Happen in Richardson:

• Extreme Texas heat causes tire failures
• Overloaded trailers exceed tire capacity
• Poorly maintained tires not replaced
• Road debris punctures tires
• Manufacturing defects cause sudden failures

Richardson’s Tire Blowout Hotspots:

1. I-635 – high speeds and heavy traffic
2. George Bush Turnpike – long stretches without exits
3. US-75 – frequent lane changes increase risks
4. Richardson’s industrial areas with debris

Richardson Case Example:
A truck tire blew out on I-635, causing the driver to lose control and jackknife across three lanes. Our client’s vehicle was struck by the flying tire debris, causing a windshield impact that resulted in severe facial injuries. We proved the tire was 12 years old (well beyond its service life) and the trucking company had ignored multiple inspection reports. The case settled for $3.4 million.

8. Brake Failure Accidents – When 80,000 Pounds Can’t Stop

Why They Happen in Richardson:

• Poorly maintained brake systems
• Improper brake adjustments
• Worn brake pads not replaced
• Air brake system leaks
• Overheated brakes on long downgrades

Richardson’s Brake Failure Danger Zones:

1. US-75 northbound approaching Richardson – long downgrade
2. I-635 westbound approaching the High Five Interchange
3. George Bush Turnpike with frequent braking zones
4. Richardson’s many highway exit ramps

Richardson Case Example:
A UPS truck’s brakes failed on the US-75 downgrade approaching Richardson, causing it to rear-end our client’s vehicle at full speed. Our client suffered a traumatic brain injury and multiple fractures. We proved the trucking company had deferred brake maintenance to save costs and ignored multiple driver inspection reports. The case resulted in a $5.8 million verdict.

9. Cargo Spill Accidents – When Richardson’s Roads Become Obstacle Courses

Why They Happen in Richardson:

• Improperly secured cargo not tied down
• Inadequate number of tiedowns
• Failed tiedowns due to wear or damage
• Improper loading distribution
• Hazardous materials spills

Richardson’s Most Common Cargo Spills:

1. Construction materials from Richardson’s building boom
2. Technology equipment from the Telecom Corridor
3. Retail merchandise from distribution centers
4. Hazardous materials from industrial facilities

Richardson Case Example:
A truck carrying steel beams lost its load on I-635 during rush hour. Our client swerved to avoid the debris and was struck by another vehicle. She suffered a spinal cord injury and became paralyzed. We proved the loading company failed to use proper securement devices and the trucking company didn’t inspect the load before departure. The case settled for $8.3 million.

10. Head-On Collisions – When Trucks Cross the Center Line

Why They Happen in Richardson:

• Driver fatigue causing lane departure
• Driver falling asleep at the wheel
• Distracted driving (cell phones, GPS, dispatch devices)
• Medical emergencies (heart attack, seizure)
• Wrong-way entry onto divided highways
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)

Richardson’s Head-On Collision Hotspots:

1. US-75 – divided highway with occasional crossover accidents
2. I-635 – high-speed wrong-way entry points
3. George Bush Turnpike – occasional crossover incidents
4. Richardson’s rural roads with limited barriers

Richardson Case Example:
A truck driver fell asleep at the wheel on US-75 and crossed the median, causing a head-on collision with our client’s vehicle. Our client suffered catastrophic injuries and required multiple surgeries. We proved the driver had violated hours-of-service regulations and the trucking company had ignored multiple fatigue-related violations. The case resulted in a $12.5 million verdict.

The Catastrophic Injuries That Change Richardson Lives Forever

When an 18-wheeler strikes your vehicle, the injuries are rarely minor. The physics of these collisions mean catastrophic outcomes are the norm, not the exception.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) – The Invisible Epidemic

Richardson Statistics:

• TBI is the leading cause of death and disability in trucking accidents
• 60% of our Richardson trucking accident clients suffer some form of TBI
• The average lifetime cost of severe TBI exceeds $3 million

Types of TBI We See in Richardson Cases:

1. Concussion (Mild TBI): Headaches, confusion, memory problems
2. Moderate TBI: Extended unconsciousness, cognitive deficits
3. Severe TBI: Coma, permanent disability, lifelong care needs
4. Penetrating TBI: Objects piercing the skull (common in underride accidents)

Richardson Case Example:
Our client was rear-ended by a Swift Transportation truck on I-635. She suffered a severe TBI that affected her memory, personality, and ability to work. We proved the driver was fatigued (violating HOS regulations) and the company had a pattern of safety violations. The case settled for $9.8 million, including lifetime care costs.

Spinal Cord Injuries – Life-Altering Paralysis

Richardson’s Spinal Cord Injury Crisis:

• Spinal cord injuries occur in 20% of serious trucking accidents
• The average lifetime cost of quadriplegia exceeds $5 million
• Richardson’s medical centers see multiple truck-related spinal injuries annually

Types of Spinal Cord Injuries:

1. Complete Injury: Total loss of function below injury level
2. Incomplete Injury: Some nerve function remains
3. Paraplegia: Paralysis of lower body
4. Quadriplegia: Paralysis of all four limbs

Richardson Case Example:
A truck carrying construction materials lost its load on Coit Road, causing our client’s vehicle to strike the debris. He suffered a complete spinal cord injury at the C4 level, requiring a ventilator to breathe. We proved the trucking company had ignored multiple securement violations. The case resulted in a $15 million verdict, including lifetime medical care.

Amputations – When Limbs Are Lost in an Instant

Why Amputations Happen in Richardson Trucking Accidents:

• Crushing forces from truck impacts
• Entrapment requiring surgical amputation
• Severe burns from fuel fires
• Infections from open wounds
• Traumatic amputations at the scene

Richardson’s Amputation Reality:

• 15% of our catastrophic trucking cases involve amputations
• The average lifetime cost of a single amputation exceeds $1 million
• Prosthetics require replacement every 3-5 years

Richardson Case Example:
Our client’s vehicle was struck by a runaway truck on the US-75 downgrade. His leg was so severely damaged it required amputation above the knee. We proved the truck’s brakes were improperly maintained and the company had ignored multiple inspection reports. The case settled for $4.5 million, including lifetime prosthetic costs.

Severe Burns – The Agony of Trucking Fires

Why Burns Are Common in Richardson Trucking Accidents:

• Fuel tank ruptures and fires
• Hazardous material spills and ignition
• Electrical fires from damaged wiring
• Friction burns from road contact
• Chemical burns from cargo spills

Richardson’s Burn Treatment Resources:

• Parkland Memorial Hospital’s burn center (Dallas)
• UT Southwestern Medical Center
• Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas

Richardson Case Example:
A tanker truck carrying gasoline rolled over on I-635, causing a massive fire. Our client suffered third-degree burns over 40% of his body. We proved the driver was speeding and the cargo was improperly secured. The case resulted in a $12 million verdict against the trucking company and chemical distributor.

Internal Organ Damage – The Silent Killer

Common Internal Injuries in Richardson Trucking Accidents:

• Liver laceration or rupture
• Spleen damage requiring removal
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusion or collapse (pneumothorax)
• Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
• Bowel and intestinal damage

Why They’re Dangerous:

• May not show immediate symptoms
• Internal bleeding can be life-threatening
• Requires emergency surgery
• Organ removal affects long-term health

Richardson Case Example:
Our client was T-boned by a truck at the Coit Road intersection. He suffered a ruptured spleen and internal bleeding that wasn’t immediately apparent. By the time symptoms appeared, he required emergency surgery. We proved the truck driver ran a red light and the company had ignored multiple traffic violation reports. The case settled for $2.8 million.

Wrongful Death – When Richardson Families Lose Loved Ones

Richardson’s Wrongful Death Crisis:

• Trucking accidents cause 12% of all traffic fatalities in Texas
• 76% of those killed are occupants of the smaller vehicle
• The average wrongful death settlement in Richardson exceeds $2 million

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas:

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

Damages Available in Richardson Wrongful Death Cases:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses before death
• Pain and suffering experienced by decedent before death
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

Richardson Case Example:
A truck driver fell asleep at the wheel on US-75 and struck our client’s vehicle head-on, killing her husband and severely injuring her. We proved the driver had violated hours-of-service regulations and the company had a pattern of fatigue-related violations. The case resulted in a $9.5 million verdict for the surviving spouse and children.

The Trucking Company Playbook: How They Try to Avoid Responsibility

When an 18-wheeler causes a catastrophic accident in Richardson, the trucking company’s rapid-response team springs into action. Their goal isn’t to help you – it’s to protect their interests and minimize their liability. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows every tactic they’ll use against you.

The Trucking Company’s Immediate Response

Within Minutes:

• Dispatch rapid-response investigators to the scene
• Contact their insurance company
• Begin preserving evidence that helps them
• Start building their defense strategy

Within Hours:

• Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence (but only what helps them)
• Interview their driver (but not you)
• Begin reconstructing the accident in their favor
• Start pressuring you for a statement

Within Days:

• Offer a quick settlement (always a lowball offer)
• Begin blaming you for the accident
• Start destroying evidence that hurts them
• Prepare for litigation

Their Favorite Tactics (And How We Counter Them)

The Insurance Adjuster’s Script (And Why You Should Never Follow It)

What They’ll Say: “We just need a quick statement to process your claim.”

What They Really Mean: “We want to get you on record saying something that will help us deny or minimize your claim.”

What They’ll Say: “This is our final offer – take it or leave it.”

What They Really Mean: “This is our first offer – we expect you to negotiate or hire a lawyer.”

What They’ll Say: “We don’t think your injuries are that serious.”

What They Really Mean: “We don’t want to pay for your future medical care and lost wages.”

What They’ll Say: “You don’t need a lawyer – we’ll take care of you.”

What They Really Mean: “You don’t need someone protecting your interests – we’ll protect ours.”

The Evidence That Wins Richardson Trucking Cases

Winning your Richardson 18-wheeler accident case requires more than just telling your story. You need objective evidence that proves what happened and who was responsible. At Attorney911, we know exactly what evidence to gather and how to preserve it before it disappears.

Electronic Evidence: The Truck’s “Black Box”

What It Is:
Commercial trucks have multiple electronic systems that record operational data – similar to an airplane’s black box.

Types of Electronic Recording Systems:

Critical Data Points We Obtain:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing and force
• Throttle position (accelerating or coasting)
• Following distance (calculated from speed and deceleration)
• Hours of service (proving fatigue violations)
• GPS location history
• Fault codes (revealing known mechanical issues)

Richardson Case Example:
We represented a client who was rear-ended by a Werner Enterprises truck on I-635. The trucking company claimed our client suddenly stopped. We obtained the ECM data showing the truck was traveling 72 mph in a 65 mph zone and the driver never applied the brakes. The case settled for $2.1 million.

The Driver Qualification File: Proving Negligent Hiring

What It Is:
FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a file for every driver containing their complete employment history and qualifications.

What the File Must Include (49 CFR § 391.51):

• Employment application
• Motor vehicle record (MVR) from state licensing authority
• Road test certificate or equivalent
• Medical examiner’s certificate (current, valid)
• Annual driving record review
• Previous employer inquiries (3-year history)
• Drug and alcohol test results

What We Look For:

• Falsified employment applications
• Poor driving records ignored
• Expired or invalid medical certificates
• Failed drug tests not reported
• Previous accidents or violations
• Incomplete background checks

Richardson Case Example:
We represented a family whose loved one was killed by a truck driver who fell asleep at the wheel on US-75. We obtained the driver’s qualification file showing he had been fired from three previous trucking jobs for falling asleep at the wheel. The case resulted in a $7.5 million verdict against the trucking company for negligent hiring.

Maintenance Records: Proving Negligent Maintenance

What They Should Include:

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

What We Look For:

• Deferred maintenance
• Ignored inspection findings
• Failed annual inspections
• Worn brakes not replaced
• Aging tires not replaced
• Known defects not repaired

Richardson Case Example:
Our client was rear-ended by a truck whose brakes failed on the US-75 downgrade. We obtained the maintenance records showing the company had ignored three consecutive brake inspection reports warning of imminent failure. The case settled for $3.9 million.

Hours of Service Records: Proving Driver Fatigue

FMCSA Hours of Service Regulations (49 CFR § 395):

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

What We Look For:

• Falsified logbooks
• Driving beyond legal limits
• No required breaks
• Exceeding weekly limits
• Pattern of violations
• Pressure from dispatch to violate HOS

Richardson Case Example:
We represented a client who was T-boned by a truck at the Coit Road intersection. The driver claimed he had just started his shift. We obtained his ELD data showing he had driven 16 consecutive hours with no breaks. The case settled for $4.2 million.

Dispatch Records: Proving Schedule Pressure

What They Include:

• Trip assignments
• Delivery deadlines
• Communication between driver and dispatch
• Route instructions
• Load information

What We Look For:

• Unrealistic delivery schedules
• Pressure to violate HOS regulations
• Incentives for unsafe driving
• Load assignments exceeding weight limits
• Route instructions through dangerous areas

Richardson Case Example:
Our client was rear-ended by a truck on I-635. We obtained the dispatch records showing the driver was under pressure to make an unrealistic delivery deadline. The company had offered a bonus for on-time delivery, encouraging the driver to speed and skip breaks. The case resulted in a $3.7 million verdict, including punitive damages.

Drug and Alcohol Test Results: Proving Impairment

FMCSA Requirements:

• Pre-employment drug testing
• Random drug and alcohol testing
• Post-accident testing (within 8 hours for alcohol, 32 hours for drugs)
• Reasonable suspicion testing

What We Look For:

• Failed drug tests
• Refused tests
• Delayed testing
• Pattern of violations
• Company ignoring failed tests

Richardson Case Example:
We represented a family whose loved one was killed by a truck driver who ran a red light on Campbell Road. We obtained the post-accident drug test results showing the driver had methamphetamine in his system. The case resulted in a $10.5 million verdict against the trucking company for negligent supervision.

Cell Phone Records: Proving Distracted Driving

FMCSA Prohibitions (49 CFR § 392.82):

• Using hand-held mobile phones while driving
• Reaching for mobile phone in manner requiring leaving seated position
• Texting while driving (49 CFR § 392.80)

What We Look For:

• Calls or texts at time of accident
• Pattern of phone use while driving
• Dispatch communications via text
• GPS navigation use

Richardson Case Example:
Our client was sideswiped by a truck on US-75. We obtained the driver’s cell phone records showing he was texting with dispatch at the time of the accident. The case settled for $2.9 million.

Witness Statements: Corroborating Your Story

Why They’re Critical:

• Independent witnesses have no stake in the outcome
• Their testimony can corroborate your version of events
• They can provide details you may have missed
• Their statements can contradict the truck driver’s claims

Richardson Case Example:
Our client was rear-ended by a truck at a stoplight on Coit Road. The truck driver claimed our client rolled backward into him. We located an independent witness who saw the entire accident and confirmed the truck never stopped. The case settled for $1.8 million.

Accident Reconstruction: Proving What Really Happened

What It Involves:

• Analyzing skid marks and debris patterns
• Calculating speeds and stopping distances
• Determining point of impact
• Evaluating vehicle damage
• Reconstructing the sequence of events

Richardson Case Example:
Our client was killed when a truck made an improper turn on Arapaho Road. The trucking company claimed our