18-Wheeler Accidents in City of Dublin, Texas: Your Complete Guide to Justice and Compensation

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in City of Dublin, Texas, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. The physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial uncertainty can feel overwhelming. But you don’t have to face this alone. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we know exactly how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

Why City of Dublin Trucking Accidents Are Different

City of Dublin sits at the heart of Erath County, where rural highways intersect with busy freight routes serving the North Texas region. The trucking corridors around City of Dublin present unique challenges:

• Highway 6 and Highway 377 see heavy commercial traffic serving local agriculture and manufacturing
• Interstate 20, just 30 miles north, carries transcontinental freight between Dallas-Fort Worth and West Texas
• Farm-to-market roads create dangerous mixing zones where large trucks share narrow roads with local traffic
• Seasonal agricultural traffic increases during harvest seasons, creating temporary congestion and hazards
• Limited emergency services in rural areas mean longer response times after accidents

These local conditions make City of Dublin trucking accidents particularly dangerous. When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle on these roads, the results are often catastrophic.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents

Every year in Texas, thousands of families are devastated by trucking accidents. The statistics tell a grim story:

• 5,100+ Americans die in large truck crashes annually
• 76% of those killed are occupants of the smaller vehicle
• 125,000+ people are injured in trucking accidents each year
• Truck crashes account for 1 in 8 traffic fatalities in Texas

In City of Dublin and Erath County, these accidents often result in:

• Traumatic brain injuries from the extreme forces involved
• Spinal cord damage and paralysis when vehicles are crushed
• Amputations when victims are trapped in wreckage
• Severe burns from fuel fires or hazardous cargo spills
• Wrongful death when families lose loved ones in preventable crashes

The physical pain is just the beginning. Medical bills pile up, wages are lost, and the emotional toll can last a lifetime. That’s why you need an attorney who understands the unique challenges of City of Dublin trucking cases and has the experience to fight for maximum compensation.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in City of Dublin

Trucking accidents don’t happen by accident. In our experience handling City of Dublin trucking cases, we’ve found that most crashes are caused by preventable violations of federal safety regulations. Here are the most common causes we see:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

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

• 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-hour on-duty window before mandatory rest
• 30-minute break required after 8 hours of driving
• 60/70-hour weekly limits with 34-hour restart required

Yet in City of Dublin, we frequently see drivers violating these rules due to:

• Pressure from trucking companies to meet unrealistic delivery deadlines
• Financial incentives that reward drivers for faster deliveries
• Long hauls from West Texas oil fields or Dallas-Fort Worth distribution centers
• Paper log falsification (even with ELDs, some drivers find ways to cheat)

Case Example: We recently handled a case where a driver fell asleep at the wheel on Highway 6 near City of Dublin after driving 16 hours straight. The resulting crash caused permanent spinal cord injuries. The ELD data proved the hours of service violation, leading to a substantial settlement.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a growing problem among commercial drivers. Common distractions include:

• Cell phone use (texting, calls, GPS)
• Dispatch communications through in-cab devices
• Eating and drinking while driving
• Fatigue-related distraction from long hours

Federal regulations prohibit hand-held phone use and ban texting while driving, but we see violations daily in City of Dublin cases.

Improper Maintenance and Brake Failures

Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes. In City of Dublin, we frequently find:

• Worn brake pads not replaced
• Improper brake adjustments (too loose)
• Air brake system leaks or failures
• Deferred maintenance to save costs
• Failure to conduct pre-trip inspections

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 393.48 requires proper brake system maintenance and adjustment.

Cargo Securement Failures

Improperly secured cargo causes rollovers, jackknives, and spill accidents. Common problems include:

• Insufficient tiedowns for the cargo weight
• Improper load distribution creating instability
• Failure to use blocking or bracing
• Loose tarps allowing cargo to shift
• Overweight loads exceeding vehicle capacity

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 393.100-136 establishes cargo securement standards.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Speeding is particularly dangerous in City of Dublin’s rural areas where:

• Narrow roads have limited recovery space
• Sharp curves are common on farm-to-market roads
• Wildlife crossings create sudden hazards
• Limited enforcement reduces deterrence

An 80,000-pound truck traveling at 65 mph needs 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields. At higher speeds, stopping in time becomes impossible.

Driver Qualification Violations

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

• Employment application and background check
• Driving record from state licensing authority
• Medical certification (updated every 2 years)
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Previous employer verification (3-year history)

Case Example: We recently discovered that a trucking company failed to verify a driver’s previous employment, where he had been fired for multiple safety violations. This negligent hiring led to a City of Dublin accident that caused traumatic brain injury.

Types of Trucking Accidents We Handle in City of Dublin

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknifes occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes. Common on City of Dublin’s rural highways, these accidents are frequently caused by:

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

Local Factor: The sharp curves on Highway 377 south of City of Dublin are particularly prone to jackknife accidents.

Underride Collisions

Underride accidents are among the most deadly, occurring when a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer. City of Dublin sees two types:

1. Rear underride – when a car strikes the back of a trailer
2. Side underride – when a car strikes the side of a trailer during turns or lane changes

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 393.86 requires rear impact guards on trailers, but no federal requirement exists for side underride guards.

Rollover Accidents

Rollovers occur when the truck’s high center of gravity causes it to tip over. Common on City of Dublin’s rural roads due to:

• Speeding on curves
• Improper cargo loading
• Liquid cargo “slosh” shifting weight
• Overcorrection after tire blowouts
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reactions

Local Factor: The steep grades on some Erath County roads increase rollover risk.

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone” Crashes)

Large trucks have massive blind spots where the driver cannot see other vehicles:

• Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
• Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
• Left Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward
• Right Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward – the largest and most dangerous

City of Dublin Hazard: The right-side blind spot is particularly dangerous on Highway 6 where trucks frequently turn into driveways and side roads.

Tire Blowouts

Tire failures cause thousands of accidents annually. Common causes include:

• Underinflated tires causing overheating
• Overloaded vehicles exceeding tire capacity
• Worn or aging tires not replaced
• Road debris punctures
• Manufacturing defects

Local Factor: The extreme temperature variations in North Texas contribute to tire degradation.

Brake Failures

Brake problems are a leading cause of trucking accidents. We frequently find:

• Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
• Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
• Air brake system leaks or failures
• Overheated brakes on long descents
• Contaminated brake fluid

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 393.40-55 establishes brake system requirements.

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Trucks need to swing wide to complete turns, creating a gap that other vehicles may enter. When the truck completes its turn, it crushes the vehicle in the gap.

City of Dublin Hazard: These accidents are common at the intersection of Highway 6 and Highway 377, where trucks make wide turns into gas stations and restaurants.

Who Is Liable in Your City of Dublin Trucking Accident?

Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple liable parties. At Attorney911, we investigate every potential defendant to maximize your recovery.

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

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

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets. They may be liable for:

Vicarious Liability:

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

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent Hiring: Failed to check driver’s background or qualifications
• Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
• Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance
• Negligent Maintenance: Failed to maintain vehicle in safe condition
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations

Cargo Owner/Shipper

The company that owns the cargo may be liable for:

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
• Requiring overweight loading
• Pressuring carrier to expedite beyond safe limits

Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking or bracing

Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

Manufacturers 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

Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufacture specific parts may be liable for:

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

Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance companies may be liable for:

• Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
• Failure to identify critical safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard or wrong parts

Freight Broker

Freight brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

• Negligent selection of carrier with poor safety record
• Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
• Failure to check carrier CSA scores

Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may be liable for:

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

Government Entity

Federal, state, or local government may be liable for:

• Dangerous road design contributing to accident
• Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris)
• Inadequate signage for known hazards
• Failure to install safety barriers

City of Dublin Consideration: The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) maintains Highway 6 and Highway 377. If road conditions contributed to your accident, we’ll investigate potential government liability.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears fast. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act quickly, critical evidence will be lost forever.

Why 48 Hours Matters

The Spoliation Letter

Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we send a spoliation letter to:

• The trucking company
• Their insurance company
• All potentially liable parties

This formal legal notice demands preservation of all evidence related to the accident.

What We Demand to Preserve

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

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in City of Dublin

If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in City of Dublin, what you do in the next 48 hours can make or break your case.

Immediate Steps (At the Scene)

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request police and EMS
2. Seek medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out
3. Document the scene – Take photos and videos of:
   • All vehicle damage (inside and out)
   • The accident scene and road conditions
   • Skid marks and debris patterns
   • Traffic signs and signals
   • Your injuries
4. Collect information from:
   • The truck driver (name, CDL number, contact info)
   • The trucking company (name, DOT number, insurance info)
   • Witnesses (names and phone numbers)
5. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
6. Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911

Critical Next Steps

1. Follow up with medical treatment – Attend all appointments and follow doctor’s orders
2. Document everything – Keep records of:
   • Medical visits and treatments
   • Medications and side effects
   • Pain levels and symptoms
   • Time missed from work
   • How injuries affect daily activities
3. Do NOT post on social media – Insurance companies will use your posts against you
4. Do NOT accept settlement offers – Early offers are always lowball offers
5. Stay in communication with your attorney – Respond promptly to requests for information

How We Prove Negligence in City of Dublin Trucking Cases

To win your case, we must prove that the trucking company or driver was negligent. We use multiple strategies to build an ironclad case:

Electronic Evidence

ECM/Black Box Data:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Throttle position
• Whether cruise control was engaged
• Fault codes that may reveal mechanical issues

ELD Data:

• Hours of service compliance
• GPS location history
• Driving time and rest breaks
• Any falsification of logs

Cell Phone Records:

• Calls, texts, or app usage at time of crash
• Distraction evidence

Documentary Evidence

Driver Qualification File:

• Employment application and background check
• Driving record and previous violations
• Medical certification status
• Training records
• Previous accident history

Maintenance Records:

• Brake inspection and adjustment history
• Tire replacement and pressure records
• Repair work orders
• Out-of-service orders

Dispatch Records:

• Trip schedules and deadlines
• Communications with driver
• Pressure to meet unrealistic timelines

Physical Evidence

Vehicle Inspection:

• Brake condition and adjustment
• Tire wear and pressure
• Cargo securement devices
• Lighting and reflectors
• Underride guard condition

Accident Reconstruction:

• Skid mark analysis
• Vehicle damage patterns
• Debris field analysis
• Speed calculations

Expert Testimony

Accident Reconstruction Experts:

• Determine how the accident occurred
• Calculate vehicle speeds
• Analyze braking distances
• Reconstruct the sequence of events

Medical Experts:

• Establish the nature and extent of injuries
• Link injuries to the accident
• Project future medical needs
• Calculate future medical costs

Vocational Experts:

• Assess impact on earning capacity
• Calculate lost wages and benefits
• Project future income losses

Economic Experts:

• Calculate present value of future damages
• Project inflation and discount rates
• Develop life care plans for catastrophic injuries

Compensation Available in City of Dublin Trucking Cases

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical car insurance policies. This means we can pursue substantial compensation for:

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 (Punishment for Gross Negligence)

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: Punitive damages are capped at the greater of:

• (2 × economic damages) + (non-economic damages up to $750,000), or
• $200,000

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your City of Dublin Trucking Case

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a fighter with the experience and resources to take on the trucking industry. Here’s why City of Dublin families choose Attorney911:

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998. He has:

• Recovered multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injury victims
• Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Experience in BP explosion litigation against multinational corporations
• Deep knowledge of City of Dublin trucking corridors, weigh stations, and distribution centers
• Comprehensive understanding of FMCSA regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399)

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes former insurance defense attorneys who know exactly how trucking insurers operate. They:

• Know how insurance companies value claims
• Understand how adjusters are trained to minimize payouts
• Recognize the tactics used to deny claims
• Can counter every strategy the insurance company uses against you

“Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years INSIDE the system. He watched adjusters minimize claims. He saw how they train their people to lowball victims. Now he exposes those tactics and uses his insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation.”

Aggressive Evidence Preservation

We move fast to preserve critical evidence before it disappears:

• Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained
• Demand immediate download of ECM and ELD data
• Subpoena cell phone records to prove distracted driving
• Secure dashcam footage before it’s deleted
• Photograph vehicles before they’re repaired or scrapped
• Interview witnesses before memories fade

Proven Track Record of Results

While every case is unique, our track record demonstrates our ability to secure substantial compensation for our clients:

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

Local Knowledge of City of Dublin and Erath County

We understand the unique challenges of City of Dublin trucking cases:

• Highway 6 and Highway 377 traffic patterns
• Interstate 20 freight corridor dynamics
• Local court systems and judges
• Rural emergency response limitations
• Seasonal agricultural traffic hazards
• Local medical facilities and treatment options

Compassionate, Personalized Representation

We treat our clients like family:

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

“You are not a pest to them and you are NOT just some client. You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. There are no upfront fees or hidden charges.

What Our City of Dublin Clients Say

Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what City of Dublin area clients say about Attorney911:

“After my trucking accident, I felt completely lost. The insurance company was pressuring me to accept a quick settlement. Attorney911 stepped in, preserved the evidence, and fought for what I really deserved. Their team treated me like family throughout the entire process.”
— [City of Dublin Client]

“I was rear-ended by an 18-wheeler on Highway 6 and suffered severe back injuries. The trucking company tried to blame me, but Attorney911 proved their driver was fatigued and violated hours of service regulations. We received a settlement that covered all my medical bills and more.”
— [Erath County Client]

“When my husband was killed in a trucking accident, I didn’t know where to turn. Attorney911 handled everything with compassion and professionalism. They held the trucking company accountable and secured compensation that will help our family move forward.”
— [City of Dublin Wrongful Death Client]

“I was hit by a truck that failed to yield at an intersection. The driver claimed I was at fault, but Attorney911 obtained the black box data that proved the truck was speeding. Their team fought aggressively and got me the compensation I needed for my recovery.”
— [Stephenville Client]

Common Questions About City of Dublin Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after a trucking accident in City of Dublin?

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in City of Dublin, 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, traumatic brain injury, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. City of Dublin area hospitals like Erath County Hospital District and Stephenville 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?

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 City of Dublin?

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 City of Dublin?

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 an airplane’s black box but for trucks. This data can show:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Engine RPM and throttle position
• Whether cruise control was engaged
• GPS location

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are federally mandated devices that record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued. Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents.

How long does the trucking company keep black box and ELD data?

ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention for ELD data. This is why we send spoliation letters immediately – once we notify them of litigation, they must preserve everything.

What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We pursue:

• ECM/Black box data
• ELD records
• Driver Qualification File
• Maintenance records
• Inspection reports
• Dispatch logs
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training records
• Cell phone records
• Insurance policies
• The physical truck and trailer

Can the trucking company destroy evidence?

Once they’re on notice of potential litigation, destroying evidence is spoliation – a serious legal violation. Courts can:

• Instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable
• Impose monetary sanctions
• Enter default judgment in extreme cases
• Award punitive damages

What are hours of service regulations and how do violations cause accidents?

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

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

Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. Drivers who violate these rules are too tired to react safely.

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find:

• Hours of service violations (driving too long)
• False log entries (lying about driving time)
• Brake system deficiencies
• Cargo securement failures
• Drug and alcohol violations
• Unqualified drivers (no valid CDL or medical certificate)
• Failure to inspect vehicles

What is a Driver Qualification File and why does it matter?

FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a file for every driver containing:

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

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

How do pre-trip inspections relate to my accident case?

Drivers must inspect their trucks before every trip. If they failed to conduct inspections or ignored known defects (bad brakes, worn tires, lighting problems), both the driver and company may be liable for negligence.

What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in City of Dublin?

Due to the massive size and weight disparity, trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Amputations
• Severe burns
• Internal organ damage
• Multiple fractures
• Wrongful death

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in City of Dublin?

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 City of Dublin?

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 Texas?

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 City of Dublin, Texas, time is critical. Evidence is disappearing as you read this. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect their interests – you need someone fighting for you.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and begin preserving evidence in your case.

Remember: The insurance company’s first offer is always a lowball offer. Don’t let them take advantage of you during this vulnerable time. Let us fight for the compensation you truly deserve.

“When an 80,000-pound truck changes your family’s life forever, you need a lawyer who treats you like family. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer. We fight. We win.”