18-Wheeler Accidents in Arlington: Your Complete Legal Guide

When an 18-Wheeler Changes Your Life in an Instant

The moment an 80,000-pound truck collides with your vehicle on Arlington’s highways, everything changes. One second you’re driving to work on I-20 or I-30, the next you’re facing catastrophic injuries, mounting medical bills, and a trucking company already working to protect their interests—not yours. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Arlington, Texas, you need more than just a lawyer. You need a legal emergency response team.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims across North Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. We know Arlington’s trucking corridors—from the distribution centers near I-30 to the weigh stations on I-20—and we know how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

Why Arlington Trucking Accidents Are Different

Arlington sits at the heart of North Texas’s trucking network, where major interstates converge and thousands of commercial vehicles pass through daily. The city’s unique position creates specific risks:

• I-30 Corridor: Connecting Dallas to Fort Worth, this highway sees heavy truck traffic from distribution centers and manufacturing facilities
• I-20 Corridor: A major east-west route carrying freight from the Gulf Coast to the Midwest
• SH 360: A critical north-south route that intersects with both interstates
• Arlington’s Distribution Hubs: Major warehouses and distribution centers create concentrated truck traffic in specific areas
• Six Flags and Entertainment District: Seasonal tourism creates additional truck traffic for events and deliveries

These factors make Arlington a high-risk area for trucking accidents, with unique patterns of driver fatigue, equipment failure, and cargo-related incidents.

The Physics of Disaster: Why Truck Crashes Cause Catastrophic Injuries

The sheer size and weight disparity between an 18-wheeler and your passenger vehicle creates forces that often result in life-altering injuries:

• 80,000 pounds vs. 4,000 pounds: The truck is 20-25 times heavier than your car
• Stopping distance: A fully loaded truck at 65 mph needs 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields
• Impact force: The kinetic energy of an 80,000-pound truck is approximately 80 times that of a passenger car at the same speed
• Trailer height: Underride collisions can shear off the top of passenger vehicles
• Cargo hazards: Shifting loads or spilled cargo create secondary dangers

These physics explain why trucking accidents in Arlington so often result in traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, and wrongful death.

Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Arlington

Jackknife Accidents on I-30 and I-20

Jackknife accidents occur when a truck’s trailer swings out at an angle to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic. These are particularly common on Arlington’s interstates where sudden traffic slowdowns and wet conditions create hazards.

Why they happen in Arlington:

• Sudden braking on congested highways
• Speeding on curves near highway interchanges
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers more prone to swing
• Improper braking techniques on long downgrades
• Wet road conditions common in North Texas storms

Case example: We recently handled a jackknife case on I-30 near the Cooper Street exit where a truck driver failed to adjust speed for traffic conditions, causing a multi-vehicle pileup that left three people with permanent injuries.

Underride Collisions: The Deadliest Truck Crash

Underride collisions occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath a truck’s trailer. These are among the most fatal accidents because the trailer often shears off the top of the car at windshield level.

Arlington’s underride risks:

• Poorly maintained or missing underride guards
• Low visibility conditions (fog common in Trinity River bottoms)
• Sudden stops by trucks on congested highways
• Wide turns at intersections where trucks cut across lanes
• Inadequate lighting on trailers

Federal requirements: While rear underride guards are required (49 CFR § 393.86), there are no federal requirements for side underride guards—despite their proven life-saving potential.

Rollover Accidents on Highway Curves

Rollover accidents occur when a truck tips onto its side or roof, often causing cargo spills and multi-vehicle collisions.

Arlington’s rollover hotspots:

• I-30 curves near the Six Flags area
• Highway interchange ramps
• SH 360 curves near the Entertainment District
• I-20 near the Great Southwest Parkway
• Areas with sudden crosswinds

Common causes:

• Speeding on curves
• Top-heavy or improperly loaded cargo
• Liquid cargo “slosh” effect
• Driver overcorrection
• Tire blowouts on hot Texas asphalt

Rear-End Collisions: The Stopping Distance Problem

Rear-end collisions are among the most common trucking accidents, often caused by the truck’s inability to stop in time.

Why they happen in Arlington:

• Following too closely on congested highways
• Driver distraction (cell phones, dispatch communications)
• Driver fatigue from long hauls
• Brake failures from poor maintenance
• Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns near major exits

The stopping distance reality: While a car can stop in about 300 feet from 65 mph, an 18-wheeler needs nearly 525 feet—leaving little margin for error on Arlington’s busy highways.

Wide Turn Accidents: The “Squeeze Play” Danger

Wide turn accidents occur when trucks swing wide before making a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter—only to be crushed when the truck completes its turn.

Arlington’s wide turn risks:

• Intersections near distribution centers
• Downtown Arlington streets
• Highway exit ramps
• Areas with limited turning space
• Intersections near entertainment venues

Case example: We handled a case where a truck driver made a wide turn at the intersection of Division Street and Cooper Street, crushing a compact car that entered the gap. The driver suffered multiple fractures and permanent nerve damage.

Blind Spot Accidents: The “No-Zone” Hazard

Trucks have four major blind spots where drivers cannot see other vehicles:

1. Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
2. Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
3. Left Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward
4. Right Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward—much larger than left side

Arlington’s blind spot dangers:

• Lane changes on multi-lane highways
• Merging traffic near highway interchanges
• Vehicles passing trucks on the right
• Intersection approaches where cars enter blind zones
• Highway construction zones with lane shifts

Tire Blowout Accidents: The Hidden Danger

Tire blowouts are particularly dangerous in Arlington’s extreme heat, where temperatures regularly exceed 100°F in summer.

Why blowouts happen in Arlington:

• Underinflated tires causing overheating
• Overloaded vehicles exceeding tire capacity
• Worn or aging tires not replaced
• Road debris common on construction-heavy highways
• Manufacturing defects in tires
• Improper tire matching on dual wheels

Case example: We represented a family whose vehicle was struck by debris from a blown steer tire on I-20 near the Great Southwest Parkway. The debris shattered their windshield, causing severe facial injuries to the driver.

Brake Failure: The Maintenance Neglect Problem

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes, and brake system violations are among the most common FMCSA out-of-service violations.

Arlington’s brake failure risks:

• Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
• Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
• Air brake system leaks or failures
• Overheated brakes on long downgrades
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Deferred maintenance to save costs

Case example: In a recent case, we proved that a trucking company had systematically deferred brake maintenance to save money, resulting in a rear-end collision on I-30 that left our client with permanent spinal injuries.

The Web of Liability: Who’s Really Responsible?

Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, 18-wheeler accidents in Arlington often involve multiple liable parties:

1. The Truck Driver: For direct negligence like speeding, distraction, or fatigue
2. The Trucking Company: For vicarious liability and direct negligence in hiring, training, and supervision
3. The Cargo Owner/Shipper: For improper loading instructions or pressure to violate regulations
4. The Loading Company: For improper cargo securement
5. Truck/Trailer Manufacturer: For design or manufacturing defects
6. Parts Manufacturer: For defective components (brakes, tires, etc.)
7. Maintenance Company: For negligent repairs
8. Freight Broker: For negligent carrier selection
9. Truck Owner: For negligent entrustment
10. Government Entity: For dangerous road design or maintenance

Case example: In a recent Arlington case, we pursued claims against:

• The truck driver for hours of service violations
• The trucking company for negligent hiring and supervision
• The cargo loading company for improper securement
• The trailer manufacturer for defective underride guards

This comprehensive approach maximized our client’s recovery after a catastrophic underride collision on I-30.

The Critical 48 Hours: Evidence That Disappears Fast

In 18-wheeler accident cases, evidence disappears quickly. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. Here’s what you need to know:

Electronic Evidence That Overwrites

Physical Evidence That Gets Destroyed

• The truck and trailer may be repaired or sold
• Failed components may be discarded
• Cargo may be removed or re-secured
• Road conditions may change
• Vehicles may be moved or towed

Witness Memory Fades

• Witnesses forget details within weeks
• Witnesses may become unavailable
• Witness statements may change

What we do immediately:

• Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
• Demand immediate download of ECM/ELD data
• Subpoena cell phone records
• Photograph all evidence before it’s moved
• Interview witnesses while memories are fresh
• Hire accident reconstruction experts

FMCSA Regulations: The Legal Foundation for Your Case

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates every aspect of commercial trucking. These regulations create the legal framework for proving negligence in your Arlington trucking accident case.

Hours of Service Violations: The Fatigue Factor

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate to prevent fatigue-related accidents:

Case example: In a recent Arlington case, ELD data showed the driver had been on duty for 16 consecutive hours when he rear-ended our client’s vehicle on I-30. This violation became the cornerstone of our case.

Driver Qualification: The Hiring Problem

FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain Driver Qualification (DQ) Files containing:

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

Why this matters: If the trucking company failed to check the driver’s background, hired someone with a poor safety record, or allowed an unqualified driver on the road, they can be held liable for negligent hiring.

Arlington case example: We discovered that a trucking company had hired a driver with multiple previous accidents and failed to check his driving record. When he caused a rollover accident on SH 360, we were able to prove negligent hiring.

Vehicle Maintenance: The Deferred Repair Problem

FMCSA requires systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of all commercial vehicles. Key requirements:

• Pre-trip inspections: Drivers must inspect vehicles before each trip
• Post-trip reports: Drivers must report defects after each trip
• Annual inspections: Comprehensive annual inspections required
• Maintenance records: Must be retained for 1 year

Arlington’s maintenance challenges:

• Extreme heat causes tire and brake wear
• Construction zones create road debris hazards
• High mileage on local routes increases wear
• Many small carriers cut maintenance to save costs

Case example: We proved that a trucking company had systematically deferred brake maintenance on their fleet, resulting in a rear-end collision on I-20 that caused our client’s traumatic brain injury.

Cargo Securement: The Shifting Load Problem

FMCSA cargo securement regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) require:

• Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured
• Securement must withstand 0.8g deceleration forward, 0.5g rearward and lateral
• Minimum number of tiedowns based on cargo weight and length
• Specific requirements for different cargo types (logs, metal coils, machinery, etc.)

Arlington’s cargo risks:

• Improperly secured construction materials
• Liquid cargo “slosh” in tankers
• Overweight loads from distribution centers
• Inadequate tiedowns for local deliveries

Case example: We represented a motorcyclist who was struck by a ladder that fell from a work truck on SH 360. The loading company had failed to properly secure the ladder, and the trucking company had failed to inspect the load.

The Catastrophic Injuries: What’s at Stake

18-wheeler accidents in Arlington often result in life-altering injuries:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Severity levels:

• Mild (Concussion): Confusion, headache, brief loss of consciousness
• Moderate: Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits
• Severe: Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment

Lifetime care costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+

Case example: We secured a multi-million dollar settlement for an Arlington resident who suffered a severe TBI in an underride collision on I-30, requiring lifelong care and supervision.

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Types of paralysis:

• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
• Incomplete Injury: Some nerve function remains
• Complete Injury: No nerve function below injury

Lifetime care costs:

• Paraplegia (low): $1.1 million+
• Paraplegia (high): $2.5 million+
• Quadriplegia (low): $3.5 million+
• Quadriplegia (high): $5 million+

Arlington case example: We represented a young father who became quadriplegic after a rollover accident on I-20. Our investigation revealed multiple FMCSA violations, leading to a substantial settlement that provides for his lifelong care.

Amputation

Types:

• Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the scene
• Surgical Amputation: Limb so severely damaged it must be removed

Ongoing needs:

• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ each)
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Occupational therapy
• Psychological counseling
• Home modifications

Case example: We secured a significant settlement for a construction worker who lost his leg when a truck’s cargo shifted and crushed him against a barrier on SH 360.

Severe Burns

How they occur:

• Fuel tank ruptures and fires
• Hazmat cargo spills and ignition
• Electrical fires from battery/wiring damage
• Friction burns from road contact
• Chemical burns from hazmat exposure

Treatment challenges:

• Multiple reconstructive surgeries
• Skin graft procedures
• Chronic pain management
• Infection risks
• Psychological trauma

Case example: We represented a family whose vehicle was engulfed in flames after a truck’s fuel tank ruptured on I-30. The mother suffered third-degree burns over 60% of her body.

Internal Organ Damage

Common injuries:

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

Why dangerous:

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

The Legal Process: What to Expect in Your Arlington Case

Step 1: Immediate Investigation (0-72 Hours)

• Accept your case and send preservation letters
• Deploy accident reconstruction expert if needed
• Obtain police crash report
• Photograph your injuries with medical documentation
• Photograph all vehicles before they’re repaired or scrapped
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Step 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

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

Step 3: Expert Analysis

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

Step 4: Litigation Strategy

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

Why Attorney911 Is Your Best Choice for Arlington Trucking Cases

1. We’re Arlington Trucking Accident Specialists

While many firms handle trucking cases, we specialize in them. Our team includes:

• Ralph Manginello: 25+ years of trucking litigation experience
• Lupe Peña: Former insurance defense attorney with insider knowledge
• Investigators: Former law enforcement officers with trucking expertise
• Accident Reconstruction Experts: On call for immediate deployment

We know Arlington’s trucking corridors, the local courts, and how to build cases that win.

2. Our Insurance Defense Advantage

“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.”

This advantage is crucial because:

• We know how insurance companies evaluate claims
• We recognize their manipulation tactics immediately
• We know when they’re bluffing and when they’ll pay
• We counter every tactic they use against you

3. We’ve Recovered Millions for Arlington Families

Our track record includes:

• $5+ Million: Logging brain injury settlement
• $3.8+ Million: Car accident amputation settlement
• $2.5+ Million: Truck crash recovery
• $2+ Million: Maritime back injury settlement
• Millions recovered: For families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

These results demonstrate our ability to secure substantial compensation for catastrophic injuries.

4. Our Federal Court Experience Matters

We’re admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for:

• Interstate trucking cases
• Complex multi-party litigation
• Cases involving federal regulations
• Cases against major corporations

5. We Offer Fluent Spanish Services

Arlington has a significant Hispanic population, and many trucking accident victims speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters.

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.

6. We’re Available 24/7 for Legal Emergencies

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. That’s why we’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to take your call and begin protecting your rights immediately.

What Our Arlington Clients Say

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

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

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

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

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

The Insurance Battle: What You’re Really Up Against

Trucking companies and their insurers have one goal: to pay you as little as possible. Here’s how they’ll try to minimize your claim—and how we counter each tactic:

The Damages You Can Recover

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

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

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

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

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence)

Available when the trucking company acted with:

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

Arlington-Specific Legal Considerations

Texas Comparative Negligence Rules

Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” system with a 51% bar rule:

• If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you’re 51% or more at fault, you recover NOTHING
• Example: If you’re 20% at fault, you recover 80% of your damages

Why this matters: Insurance companies will try to blame you to reduce or eliminate their liability. We fight these allegations with evidence from ECM data, witness statements, and accident reconstruction.

Texas Statute of Limitations

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

Important note: While the statute of limitations gives you 2 years to file, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner we begin our investigation, the stronger your case will be.

Texas Damage Caps

Texas has complex rules on punitive damages:

• Greater of (2x economic damages + non-economic damages capped at $750,000) OR $200,000
• No cap on economic damages
• No cap on non-economic damages in personal injury cases (unlike medical malpractice)

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Arlington

Immediate Steps (At the Scene)

1. Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor
3. Document the Scene: Take photos and video of:
   • All vehicle damage (inside and out)
   • The accident scene and road conditions
   • Skid marks and debris
   • Traffic signs and signals
   • Your injuries
4. Get Information:
   • Truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
   • Trucking company name and DOT number
   • Witness names and contact information
5. Do NOT:
   • Give recorded statements to any insurance company
   • Admit fault or apologize
   • Sign anything without consulting an attorney

Next Steps (First 48 Hours)

1. Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (24/7)
2. Follow Up with Medical Care: Even if you went to the ER, see your doctor for follow-up
3. Document Everything:
   • Keep a pain journal
   • Save all medical bills and receipts
   • Document time missed from work
4. Do NOT:
   • Post about the accident on social media
   • Discuss the accident with anyone except your attorney
   • Accept any settlement offers

The Most Dangerous Trucking Corridors in Arlington

Our experience handling Arlington trucking cases has identified these high-risk areas:

I-30 Corridor

• High-risk sections: Between Cooper Street and Collins Street
• Common accident types: Rear-end collisions, jackknifes, rollovers
• Why dangerous: Heavy truck traffic from distribution centers, sudden traffic slowdowns, frequent lane changes

I-20 Corridor

• High-risk sections: Between Great Southwest Parkway and SH 360
• Common accident types: Rear-end collisions, tire blowouts, cargo spills
• Why dangerous: Long-haul trucks from Gulf Coast to Midwest, highway interchange congestion, construction zones

SH 360 Corridor

• High-risk sections: Between I-20 and I-30
• Common accident types: Wide turn accidents, blind spot collisions, rear-end collisions
• Why dangerous: Mix of local and through traffic, entertainment district deliveries, construction zone traffic

Highway Interchanges

• I-30/I-20 Interchange: Complex traffic patterns, sudden lane changes
• I-30/SH 360 Interchange: Merging traffic, speed differentials
• I-20/SH 360 Interchange: Congestion, weaving traffic

Local Streets with High Truck Traffic

• Division Street: Wide turn accidents at intersections
• Cooper Street: Delivery truck traffic near businesses
• Abrams Street: Industrial area truck traffic
• Six Flags Drive: Seasonal truck traffic for events

Case Results That Show What’s Possible

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

• $730 Million: Texas verdict against Landstar for oversize load accident
• $462 Million: Missouri underride collision verdict
• $160 Million: Alabama rollover verdict leaving driver quadriplegic
• $150 Million: Texas settlement for two children killed in trucking accident
• $141.5 Million: Florida verdict against defunct carrier

Arlington case example: We recently secured a multi-million dollar settlement for a family whose loved one was killed in an underride collision on I-30. Our investigation revealed that the trucking company had been cited multiple times for underride guard violations but had failed to correct the problem.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arlington Trucking Accidents

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

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

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
• Document the scene with photos and video if possible
• Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
• Collect witness contact information
• Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
• Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately

Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?

YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Arlington hospitals like Medical City Arlington and Texas Health Arlington Memorial can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

What information should I collect at the truck accident scene in Arlington?

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 Arlington?

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.

What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?

A spoliation letter is a legal notice demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. This includes ECM/black box data, ELD logs, maintenance records, driver files, and more. Sending this letter immediately puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Arlington?

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 an owner-operator and does that affect my case?

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.

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

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data – similar to airplane black boxes 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 duty
• 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 Arlington?

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 Arlington?

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 Arlington?

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 Arlington?

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.

Your Fight Starts Now

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Arlington, time is not on your side. Evidence is disappearing. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect them. You need a legal emergency response team on your side.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims across North Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows every tactic the trucking company will use against you.

We’re available 24/7. Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Remember: The trucking company has lawyers. So should you. Don’t wait – evidence disappears fast. Call Attorney911 now.