18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in City of Cool, Texas
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident on City of Cool’s highways, you need experienced legal representation that understands both the federal trucking regulations and the unique challenges of Parker County roads. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we’re ready to put that experience to work for you.
Why City of Cool Trucking Accidents Are Different
City of Cool sits at the crossroads of major Texas trucking corridors. The stretch of I-20 that runs through Parker County sees heavy commercial traffic moving between Fort Worth, Weatherford, and points east. Local roads like FM 51 and US 180 also carry significant truck traffic serving the area’s growing agricultural, manufacturing, and energy sectors.
The mix of high-speed interstate traffic and rural roads creates unique hazards:
- Trucks transitioning between highway speeds and local traffic
- Limited truck parking areas forcing drivers to take breaks in unsafe locations
- Rural roads with inadequate lighting and signage
- Weather conditions that vary from North Texas heat to sudden thunderstorms
- Local industries that generate specialized trucking needs
Our firm understands these local factors because we’re Texas attorneys who know City of Cool. We’re not just another 800-number law firm – we’re your neighbors who understand the roads, the courts, and the trucking industry that operates here.
The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents
Every year, thousands of people are seriously injured or killed in trucking accidents across Texas. The statistics are sobering:
- Over 5,100 people die in large truck crashes annually in the United States
- 76% of those killed are occupants of the smaller vehicle
- Truck accidents cause catastrophic injuries including traumatic brain injury, spinal cord damage, and wrongful death
- The average 18-wheeler accident settlement in Texas exceeds $500,000 when properly handled
In City of Cool and Parker County, we see these devastating accidents all too often. The massive size and weight disparity between an 80,000-pound truck and your 4,000-pound car means that what might be a minor fender-bender between two cars can be a life-altering catastrophe when a truck is involved.
Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in City of Cool
Our experience handling trucking cases throughout Parker County has revealed several common causes of 18-wheeler accidents:
Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations
Federal regulations limit truck drivers to:
- 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
- A maximum 14-hour on-duty window
- A 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
- 60/70 hour weekly limits
Yet we routinely find drivers and trucking companies violating these rules. The pressure to meet delivery deadlines often leads to:
- Falsified log books (even with ELDs)
- Drivers working second jobs during their “off-duty” time
- Companies encouraging drivers to exceed legal limits
On City of Cool’s roads, we often see drivers pushing their limits to make deliveries to Fort Worth distribution centers or Weatherford manufacturing facilities. The long stretches of I-20 can lull drivers into dangerous levels of fatigue.
Improper Cargo Loading and Securement
Federal cargo securement regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) require:
- Proper working load limits for tiedowns
- Specific securement methods for different cargo types
- Regular inspections during transit
When cargo isn’t properly secured, it can:
- Shift during transit, causing rollovers
- Fall onto the roadway, creating hazards for other vehicles
- Make the truck unstable and harder to control
We’ve seen cases in Parker County where improperly secured agricultural equipment or construction materials have fallen from trucks, causing serious accidents.
Brake Failures and Poor Maintenance
Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes. Common maintenance issues include:
- Worn brake pads not replaced
- Improper brake adjustments
- Air brake system leaks
- Deferred maintenance to save costs
The hilly terrain around City of Cool puts additional stress on truck braking systems, making proper maintenance even more critical.
Distracted Driving
Despite federal prohibitions (49 CFR § 392.82), we frequently see truck drivers:
- Texting while driving
- Using hand-held phones
- Adjusting GPS devices
- Eating or drinking while driving
- Engaging in dispatch communications
The long, straight stretches of I-20 can make it tempting for drivers to take their attention off the road.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Trucks require significantly more stopping distance than cars:
- At 65 mph, a fully loaded truck needs 525 feet to stop
- That’s nearly two football fields
- Passenger vehicles need only about 300 feet
When trucks speed or follow too closely, they simply can’t stop in time to avoid collisions.
Blind Spot Accidents
Commercial trucks have four major blind spots (No-Zones):
- 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 the cab door backward
- Right Side No-Zone: Extends from the cab door backward – much larger than the left side
The right-side blind spot is particularly dangerous on City of Cool’s two-lane roads where trucks often pass slower vehicles.
Wide Turn Accidents
Trucks need extra space to make turns safely. When they swing wide to the left before making a right turn, they create a gap that smaller vehicles may try to enter – only to be crushed when the truck completes its turn.
We see these “squeeze play” accidents frequently at intersections in City of Cool, particularly where trucks are turning from FM 51 onto local roads.
What To Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in City of Cool
If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in City of Cool, taking the right steps immediately can make a significant difference in your case:
- Call 911 and report the accident – This creates an official record and ensures police respond to the scene.
- Seek immediate medical attention – Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask serious injuries. Visit a local hospital or urgent care center.
- Document the scene – Take photos and videos of:
- All vehicle damage
- The accident scene and road conditions
- Skid marks and debris
- Traffic signs and signals
- Your injuries
- Collect information – Get:
- The truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
- The trucking company’s name and DOT number
- Insurance information for all parties
- Contact information for witnesses
- Do NOT give recorded statements – Insurance adjusters will call quickly. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately – Critical evidence can disappear within days.
“Every hour you wait, evidence in your City of Cool trucking accident case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. Call Attorney911 NOW at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence.” – Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner
Why You Need a City of Cool 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer
Trucking accident cases are far more complex than typical car accident claims. Here’s why you need an experienced attorney:
Multiple Potentially Liable Parties
In trucking cases, multiple parties may share responsibility:
- 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 the carrier)
- Government entities (for road defects)
We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.
Complex Federal and State Regulations
Trucking companies must comply with extensive federal regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399) covering:
- Driver qualifications
- Hours of service
- Vehicle maintenance
- Cargo securement
- Drug and alcohol testing
Violations of these regulations can prove negligence and strengthen your case.
Insurance Company Tactics
Trucking companies and their insurers have teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim. Common tactics include:
- Quick lowball settlement offers
- Denying or minimizing your injuries
- Blaming you for the accident
- Delaying the claims process
- Using recorded statements against you
- Hiring “independent” medical examiners to dispute your injuries
Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these companies operate. We use that insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation.
Evidence Preservation Challenges
Critical evidence in trucking cases can disappear quickly:
- ECM/Black box data overwrites in 30 days
- ELD data may be retained for only 6 months
- Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days
- Surveillance video from nearby businesses overwrites in 7-30 days
- Physical evidence may be repaired or destroyed
We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.
Catastrophic Injuries Require Significant Compensation
Trucking accidents often cause life-altering injuries that require:
- Extensive medical treatment
- Long-term rehabilitation
- Home modifications
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
These cases require substantial compensation to cover both current and future needs.
How Attorney911 Handles Your City of Cool Trucking Accident Case
When you choose Attorney911, we immediately begin building your case:
1. Immediate Evidence Preservation
Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we:
- Send formal spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties
- Demand preservation of ECM/black box data
- Request ELD records
- Secure dashcam and surveillance footage
- Preserve the physical truck and trailer
- Collect maintenance and inspection records
2. Comprehensive Investigation
Our investigation includes:
- Accident reconstruction by expert engineers
- Analysis of ECM and ELD data
- Review of Driver Qualification Files
- Examination of maintenance records
- Inspection of cargo securement methods
- Interviews with witnesses
- Review of trucking company safety records
3. Identifying All Liable Parties
We pursue claims against:
- The truck driver for negligent operation
- The trucking company for vicarious liability and direct negligence
- Cargo owners for improper loading instructions
- Loading companies for securement failures
- Manufacturers for defective parts
- Maintenance companies for negligent repairs
- Freight brokers for negligent carrier selection
4. Building Your Damages Case
We work with medical and financial experts to document:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement and physical impairment
- Loss of consortium for family members
5. Aggressive Negotiation and Litigation
We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, which gives us leverage in settlement negotiations. Our approach includes:
- Filing lawsuits when necessary
- Conducting aggressive discovery
- Taking depositions of key witnesses
- Presenting strong settlement demands
- Trying cases when insurance companies refuse to be reasonable
Our Track Record in Trucking Cases
At Attorney911, we’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims across Texas:
- $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
- $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement (staph infection during treatment)
- $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
- $2+ Million – Maritime back injury settlement
- Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases
“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” – Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client
Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we’re never far from City of Cool and Parker County.
City of Cool Trucking Corridors We Know
Our experience with City of Cool’s trucking routes gives us an advantage in your case:
- I-20 Corridor – Heavy commercial traffic between Fort Worth and Weatherford
- FM 51 – Connects City of Cool to local agricultural and manufacturing facilities
- US 180 – Serves local industries and connects to Granbury
- Local distribution centers – Serving growing businesses in Parker County
- Agricultural routes – Serving farms and ranches in the area
- Energy sector routes – Supporting oil and gas operations in the region
We understand the specific challenges of each route and how they contribute to accident risks.
Common Types of Trucking Accidents We Handle in City of Cool
Jackknife Accidents
Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic. These accidents are particularly dangerous on I-20 where high speeds and sudden braking can lead to catastrophic multi-vehicle pileups.
Common causes in City of Cool:
- Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
- Speeding on curves
- Improperly loaded or empty trailers
- Brake system failures
- Driver inexperience with emergency maneuvers
Underride Collisions
Underride collisions are among the most deadly trucking accidents. They occur when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer, often shearing off the top of the car.
Types we see in City of Cool:
- Rear underride – Vehicle strikes the back of a trailer
- Side underride – Vehicle impacts the side of a trailer during lane changes or turns
Federal law requires rear underride guards on trailers manufactured after 1998, but:
- Many older trailers lack adequate guards
- Guards often fail in crashes
- There is NO federal requirement for side underride guards
Rollover Accidents
Rollover accidents are particularly dangerous in Parker County due to:
- The hilly terrain around City of Cool
- Curves on rural roads
- Improperly secured cargo
- Liquid loads that shift during transit
When a truck rolls over, it can:
- Crush vehicles beneath it
- Spill cargo onto the roadway
- Cause chain-reaction accidents
- Block multiple lanes of traffic
Tire Blowout Accidents
Tire failures are a significant hazard on City of Cool’s roads due to:
- Extreme Texas heat that stresses tires
- Long distances between service areas
- Inadequate pre-trip inspections
- Worn or aging tires not replaced
When a truck tire blows out, it can:
- Cause the driver to lose control
- Create road debris that strikes other vehicles
- Lead to rollover or jackknife accidents
Brake Failure Accidents
Brake failures are particularly dangerous in Parker County due to:
- The hilly terrain that stresses braking systems
- Long descents that can cause brake fade
- Inadequate maintenance
- Overloaded trucks
When brakes fail, trucks can:
- Rear-end other vehicles at high speed
- Fail to stop at intersections
- Lose control on curves
- Cause catastrophic pileups
Cargo Spill Accidents
Cargo spills create hazards on City of Cool’s roads:
- Agricultural products can make roads slippery
- Construction materials can create obstacles
- Hazardous materials can cause fires or explosions
- Debris can strike other vehicles
Common causes:
- Improper cargo securement
- Overloaded vehicles
- Inadequate tiedowns
- Failure to inspect cargo during transit
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are among the deadliest accidents. They often occur when:
- A truck crosses the center line
- A driver falls asleep at the wheel
- A driver is distracted
- A driver is impaired
- A driver loses control on a curve
On two-lane roads around City of Cool, these accidents are particularly devastating.
Catastrophic Injuries from 18-Wheeler Accidents
The massive size and weight of commercial trucks mean that accidents often result in life-altering injuries:
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
TBI occurs when the brain is damaged by sudden trauma. Symptoms can include:
- Headaches and dizziness
- Memory loss and confusion
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood changes and depression
- Sleep disturbances
- Speech difficulties
- Personality changes
TBI can result in:
- Permanent cognitive impairment
- Inability to work
- Need for lifelong care
- Increased risk of dementia
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
Spinal cord injuries can cause:
- Paraplegia – Loss of function below the waist
- Quadriplegia – Loss of function in all four limbs
- Incomplete injuries – Some nerve function remains
- Complete injuries – Total loss of sensation and movement
These injuries often require:
- Extensive medical treatment
- Rehabilitation
- Home modifications
- Assistive devices
- Lifelong care
Amputations
Amputations can occur:
- At the accident scene due to crushing injuries
- During emergency extraction
- As a result of surgical intervention for severe injuries
Amputations require:
- Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ each)
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Psychological counseling
- Home modifications
- Career retraining
Severe Burns
Burns can result from:
- Fuel tank ruptures and fires
- Hazardous material spills
- Electrical fires
- Friction burns from road contact
Burn injuries often require:
- Multiple reconstructive surgeries
- Skin grafts
- Long-term rehabilitation
- Psychological support
Internal Organ Damage
Internal injuries can include:
- Liver lacerations
- Spleen damage
- Kidney injuries
- Lung contusions
- Internal bleeding
These injuries are particularly dangerous because:
- Symptoms may not appear immediately
- Internal bleeding can be life-threatening
- Some injuries require organ removal
Wrongful Death
When a trucking accident takes a life, surviving family members may recover:
- Lost future income
- Loss of companionship and guidance
- Mental anguish
- Funeral expenses
- Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence
The Insurance Battle You’re Facing
Trucking companies carry substantial insurance policies:
- $750,000 minimum for non-hazardous freight
- $1,000,000 for oil and large equipment
- $5,000,000 for hazardous materials
But these companies will fight aggressively to minimize your claim. Our former insurance defense attorney knows their tactics:
- Quick lowball settlement offers – They’ll offer a fraction of what your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries
- Denying or minimizing your injuries – They’ll argue your injuries aren’t as serious as you claim
- Blaming you for the accident – They’ll try to shift fault to reduce their liability
- Delaying the claims process – They hope you’ll get desperate and accept a low offer
- Using recorded statements against you – They’ll try to get you to say something that hurts your case
- Hiring “independent” medical examiners – They’ll send you to doctors who will downplay your injuries
“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.” – Ralph Manginello
What Your City of Cool Trucking Accident Case Is Worth
Case values depend on many factors, including:
- Severity of your injuries – Catastrophic injuries command higher settlements
- Medical expenses – Both current and future treatment costs
- Lost wages – Income lost due to your injuries
- Lost earning capacity – If you can’t return to your previous job
- Pain and suffering – Physical and emotional distress
- Degree of defendant’s negligence – Gross negligence may support punitive damages
- Insurance coverage available – Higher policy limits allow for larger recoveries
In Texas, there is no cap on compensatory damages for trucking accidents (unlike medical malpractice cases). This means you can recover your full economic and non-economic damages.
Recent Trucking Verdicts in Texas
Texas juries have shown they will hold trucking companies accountable:
- $730 Million – Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (2021) – Oversize load fatality
- $150 Million – Werner settlement (2022) – Two children killed on I-30
- $37.5 Million – Trucking accident verdict (2024)
- $35.5 Million – Family injured in truck accident
- $35 Million – Fort Worth trucking verdict (2025) – Largest in Tarrant County
These verdicts demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable.
The Legal Process for Your City of Cool Trucking Accident Case
1. Free Consultation
We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to evaluate your case. We’ll:
- Review the facts of your accident
- Explain your legal rights
- Outline your options
- Answer your questions
2. Case Investigation
We immediately begin investigating your case:
- Preserving evidence
- Interviewing witnesses
- Analyzing accident reports
- Reviewing medical records
- Consulting with experts
3. Medical Treatment
We help you get the medical care you need:
- Connecting you with local doctors
- Arranging treatment with no upfront costs
- Documenting your injuries and treatment
4. Demand Letter
We prepare a comprehensive demand package that includes:
- Description of the accident
- Analysis of liability
- Documentation of your injuries
- Calculation of your damages
- Settlement demand
5. Negotiation
We negotiate aggressively with the insurance company:
- Presenting your demand
- Countering lowball offers
- Using our trial experience as leverage
- Preparing to file a lawsuit if necessary
6. Litigation (If Needed)
If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we’re prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to trial:
- Filing the complaint
- Conducting discovery
- Taking depositions
- Presenting motions
- Trying your case before a jury
7. Resolution
Most cases settle before trial, but we’re fully prepared to go to court if necessary. We’ll:
- Present your case to the jury
- Fight for maximum compensation
- Ensure you receive what you deserve
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your City of Cool Trucking Accident Case
25+ Years of Experience
Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s handled trucking cases against major carriers including Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS.
Federal Court Experience
We’re admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas – essential for handling interstate trucking cases.
Former Insurance Defense Attorney
Our team includes Lupe Peña, who worked for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims – and how to fight back.
Multi-Million Dollar Results
We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims across Texas. Our track record shows we know how to win.
Bilingual Services
Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, allowing us to serve City of Cool’s Hispanic community directly without interpreters.
“Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.”
Local Knowledge
We understand City of Cool’s roads, courts, and trucking industry. We’re not just Texas attorneys – we’re your neighbors.
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.
Compassionate Representation
We treat our clients like family:
“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” – Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client
What Our Clients Say About Us
“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” – Glenda Walker
“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” – Chad Harris
“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.” – Angel Walle
“One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.” – Donald Wilcox
“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day… it only took 6 months amazing.” – Chavodrian Miles
“When I felt I had no hope or direction, Leonor reached out to me… She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.” – Stephanie Hernandez
“One of Houston’s Great Men Trae Tha Truth has recommended this law firm. So if he is vouching for them then I know they do good work.” – Jacqueline Johnson
Frequently Asked Questions About City of Cool Trucking Accidents
What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in City of Cool?
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
How quickly should I contact an attorney after a trucking accident?
IMMEDIATELY – within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.
Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in City of Cool?
Multiple parties may be liable:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company/motor carrier
- The cargo owner or shipper
- The company that loaded the cargo
- Truck or parts manufacturers
- Maintenance companies
- Freight brokers
- The truck owner (if different from the carrier)
- Government entities (for road defects)
We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.
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. 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
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.
How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in City of Cool?
Case values depend on many factors:
- Severity of your injuries
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages 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.
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.
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.
What if I can’t afford medical treatment?
We can help you get the medical care you need even if you don’t have insurance. We work with local doctors who will treat you on a lien basis – they get paid when your case settles.
What if the trucking company’s insurance adjuster contacts me?
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. Refer all calls to your attorney.
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.
What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?
An owner-operator is a driver who owns their own truck and contracts with trucking companies. This can complicate liability, but both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.
How do cargo spills create liability?
Cargo spills can create liability for:
- The trucking company for securement failures
- The loading company for improper securement
- The cargo owner for improper loading instructions
- The shipper for hazardous material violations
We investigate the entire chain of custody to identify all responsible parties.
What if a tire blowout caused my accident?
Tire blowouts can create liability for:
- The trucking company for inadequate maintenance
- The tire manufacturer for defective tires
- The maintenance company for improper inspections
- The driver for failing to conduct pre-trip inspections
We preserve the failed tire for expert analysis to determine the cause.
How do brake failures get investigated?
Brake failure investigations include:
- Preserving the truck’s braking system for analysis
- Reviewing maintenance records
- Inspecting brake components
- Analyzing ECM data for brake application
- Reviewing driver inspection reports
- Consulting with brake system experts
What if the truck’s dashcam recorded the accident?
Dashcam footage can be powerful evidence. We demand preservation of all video evidence immediately. This footage can show:
- The truck driver’s actions before the accident
- Road conditions
- Traffic signals
- The accident itself
Can I get the truck’s GPS data?
Yes. GPS and telematics data can show:
- The truck’s route
- Speed throughout the trip
- Stopping locations
- Driver behavior
This data can prove speeding, hours of service violations, and other negligent behavior.
What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, their insurance policy should still cover your claim. We identify all available insurance coverage to ensure you can recover.
How are future medical expenses calculated?
We work with medical and financial experts to:
- Document your current medical needs
- Project future treatment requirements
- Calculate the cost of future care
- Present this evidence to the insurance company or jury
What is loss of consortium?
Loss of consortium is a claim for the impact of your injuries on your relationship with your spouse. It includes:
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of affection
- Loss of sexual relations
- Loss of household services
When are punitive damages available?
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)
How do you prove the driver was fatigued?
We prove fatigue through:
- ELD data showing hours of service violations
- Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
- Cell phone records showing activity during “off-duty” time
- Witness statements about driver behavior
- Expert testimony on fatigue effects
What is the FMCSA and how does it help my case?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the trucking industry. Their regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399) establish safety standards. Violations of these regulations can prove negligence and strengthen your case.
Can I access the trucking company’s safety record?
Yes. FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain the carrier’s:
- CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
- Inspection history and out-of-service rates
- Crash history
- Safety rating
A poor safety record can prove the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on the road.
What experts do you use in trucking cases?
We work with:
- Accident reconstruction experts
- Medical experts
- Vocational experts
- Economic experts
- Life care planners
- FMCSA regulation experts
- Trucking industry experts
How are wrongful death damages calculated?
Wrongful death damages include:
- Lost future income and benefits
- Loss of consortium (spousal companionship)
- Loss of parental guidance and nurturing
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses incurred prior to death
- Pain and suffering experienced by the decedent before death
- Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence
What happens if there’s not enough insurance?
If the at-fault party’s insurance is insufficient, we explore:
- Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Other potentially liable parties
- The trucking company’s umbrella coverage
- Personal assets of the at-fault parties
Your Next Steps
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in City of Cool or anywhere in Parker County, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every hour.
Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.
We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and begin protecting your rights. Our experienced City of Cool trucking accident attorneys will:
- Evaluate your case at no cost
- Explain your legal options
- Send preservation letters to protect critical evidence
- Begin investigating your claim immediately
- Fight for the maximum compensation you deserve
“Free consultation. No fee unless we win. 24/7 availability. One number to remember: 1-888-ATTY-911.”
Remember: The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of representation. Call us today and let us fight for you.
Attorney911 – Because trucking companies shouldn’t get away with it.