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City of Bedford 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys: Attorney911 Delivers 25+ Years of Courtroom-Tested Trucking Litigation, Led by Ralph Manginello with Multi-Million Dollar Verdicts and BP Explosion Case Experience, Backed by Former Insurance Defense Attorney Lupe Peña Who Knows Every Insurance Tactic, FMCSA Regulation Masters Specializing in 49 CFR Parts 390-399, Hours of Service Violations, Black Box Data Extraction, and Electronic Control Module Evidence Preservation for Jackknife, Rollover, Underride, Tire Blowout, Brake Failure, and All Catastrophic Truck Crashes on I-35, I-820, and City of Bedford Highways – TBI, Spinal Cord Injury, Amputation, and Wrongful Death Specialists with $50+ Million Recovered for Texas Families, Free 24/7 Consultation, No Fee Unless We Win, Same-Day Evidence Preservation, Hablamos Español, Three Texas Offices, 1-888-ATTY-911

February 14, 2026 31 min read
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18-Wheeler Accidents in Bedford, Texas: Your Complete Guide to Justice and Recovery

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Bedford, Texas, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. The massive size and weight of commercial trucks create devastating consequences when accidents occur. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we understand the unique challenges Bedford families face after these catastrophic events.

Why Bedford’s Trucking Corridors Are High-Risk Zones

Bedford sits at the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, where major trucking routes intersect and create dangerous conditions for passenger vehicles. The city’s position along Highway 121 and Highway 183, combined with proximity to major interstates like I-35W and I-820, means Bedford drivers share the road with thousands of commercial trucks daily.

These trucks serve the massive distribution centers in nearby cities like Fort Worth and Grapevine, transporting goods from the Alliance Global Logistics Hub and serving the region’s growing e-commerce demand. The constant flow of 18-wheelers through Bedford’s commercial districts and residential areas creates unique risks:

  • Highway 121/183 Interchange: This busy junction sees heavy truck traffic serving the Mid-Cities area, with frequent lane changes and merging that can lead to dangerous situations
  • Industrial Park Areas: Bedford’s business parks along Airport Freeway and Bedford Road attract heavy truck traffic, especially during early morning and late afternoon hours
  • Residential Zones: Trucks delivering to local businesses often travel through neighborhoods, creating hazards for families and schoolchildren
  • Construction Zones: The ongoing development in Bedford and surrounding areas creates temporary traffic patterns that confuse both truck drivers and passenger vehicles

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents

When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a 4,000-pound passenger vehicle, the physics are brutal. The force of impact is 20-25 times greater than a typical car accident. This disparity explains why:

  • 76% of trucking accident fatalities are occupants of the smaller vehicle
  • 125,000+ people are injured in truck crashes annually in the U.S.
  • 5,100+ people die in trucking accidents each year
  • Truck accidents are 3 times more likely to result in fatalities than car accidents

In Bedford, we’ve seen these statistics come to life in tragic ways. The injuries from 18-wheeler accidents are often catastrophic:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

The violent forces in truck collisions can cause the brain to impact the skull, resulting in:

  • Mild TBI (Concussion): Headaches, confusion, memory problems, mood changes
  • Moderate TBI: Extended unconsciousness, cognitive deficits, speech difficulties
  • Severe TBI: Permanent cognitive impairment, coma, or persistent vegetative state

TBI victims often require lifelong care, with costs ranging from $85,000 to $3 million depending on severity.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

When the spinal cord is damaged, the consequences are life-altering:

  • Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
  • Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
  • Incomplete Injuries: Some nerve function remains, but with significant impairment

The lifetime costs for spinal cord injuries range from $1.1 million for low paraplegia to $5 million for high quadriplegia.

Amputations

The crushing forces in truck accidents can sever limbs or require surgical amputation. Victims face:

  • Initial surgery and hospitalization
  • Prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000 each, with replacements needed every few years)
  • Physical and occupational therapy
  • Psychological counseling for trauma and body image issues
  • Home and vehicle modifications

Severe Burns

Fuel tank ruptures, chemical spills, and electrical fires can cause horrific burns:

  • First-degree: Minor, heal without scarring
  • Second-degree: Painful, may require skin grafts
  • Third-degree: Full thickness burns requiring extensive treatment
  • Fourth-degree: Damage to muscle and bone, often requiring amputation

Burn victims face multiple reconstructive surgeries, permanent scarring, and lifelong pain management.

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents claim lives, families are left devastated. Wrongful death claims in Bedford may include:

  • Lost future income the deceased would have earned
  • Loss of companionship for spouses and children
  • Mental anguish suffered by surviving family
  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Punitive damages when gross negligence is proven

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Bedford

Our experience handling Bedford trucking cases has revealed patterns in how these accidents occur:

Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)

Federal regulations limit truck drivers to:

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

Despite these rules, fatigue remains a leading cause of Bedford truck accidents. Drivers face pressure from dispatchers to meet tight deadlines, and some falsify their electronic logging device (ELD) records to hide violations.

Distracted Driving

Truck drivers face unique distractions:

  • Cell phone use (texting, calls, GPS)
  • Dispatch communications through onboard systems
  • In-cab technology (navigation, electronic logs)
  • Eating and drinking while driving
  • External distractions (billboards, accidents)

Federal regulations prohibit hand-held phone use while driving, but violations remain common.

Improper Maintenance and Brake Failures

Trucking companies must systematically inspect and maintain their vehicles. Common maintenance failures include:

  • Worn brake pads not replaced
  • Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
  • Air brake system leaks
  • Tire blowouts from worn or underinflated tires
  • Lighting failures (headlights, taillights, turn signals)

Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes according to federal data.

Cargo Securement Failures

Improperly secured cargo can:

  • Shift during transit, destabilizing the truck
  • Fall onto roadways, creating hazards for other vehicles
  • Cause rollovers when weight distribution changes suddenly

Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) specify exact securement requirements, but violations remain common.

Blind Spot Accidents (No-Zone Crashes)

Trucks have massive blind spots:

  • 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, much larger than left side

Bedford’s highway interchanges and busy commercial areas create frequent opportunities for blind spot accidents.

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Trucks need significant space to complete turns. When drivers swing wide to make a right turn, they create a gap that passenger vehicles may enter, only to be crushed when the truck completes its turn.

Underride Collisions

When a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of a trailer and slides underneath, the trailer shears off the vehicle’s roof. These accidents are often fatal:

  • Rear underride: Vehicle slides under trailer
  • Side underride: Vehicle impacts trailer side during lane changes or turns

Federal law requires rear impact guards, but no requirement exists for side guards.

Who Is Liable in Your Bedford Trucking Accident?

Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple liable parties:

The Truck Driver

Drivers may be liable for:

  • Speeding or reckless driving
  • Distracted driving (cell phone, dispatch communications)
  • Fatigued driving (HOS violations)
  • Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
  • Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

Trucking companies can be held directly liable for:

  • Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified or dangerous drivers)
  • Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
  • Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
  • Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)
  • Negligent scheduling (pressuring drivers to violate HOS)

Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are also vicariously liable for their employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment.

Cargo Owners and Shippers

Companies that own the cargo being transported may be liable for:

  • Providing improper loading instructions
  • Failing to disclose hazardous cargo
  • Requiring overweight loading
  • Pressuring carriers to expedite shipments

Cargo Loading Companies

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

  • Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
  • Unbalanced load distribution
  • Exceeding vehicle weight ratings

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for defective products:

  • Brake system failures
  • Tire defects causing blowouts
  • Steering mechanism failures
  • Lighting system defects
  • Defective underride guards

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers may be liable for:

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

Freight Brokers

Brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

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

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, government agencies may be liable for:

  • Dangerous road design
  • Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris)
  • Inadequate signage
  • Improper work zone setup

The Critical 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

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

What Evidence Disappears Fast?

Evidence Type Destruction Risk What It Shows
ECM/Black Box Data Overwrites in 30 days or with new driving events Speed, braking, throttle position, fault codes
ELD Data May be retained only 6 months Hours of service compliance, driving time
Dashcam Footage Often deleted within 7-14 days Video of accident and driver behavior
Surveillance Video Business cameras typically overwrite in 7-30 days Accident dynamics, traffic conditions
Witness Memory Fades significantly within weeks Details of what happened
Physical Evidence Vehicle may be repaired, sold, or scrapped Damage patterns, failed components
Drug/Alcohol Tests Must be conducted within specific windows Impairment at time of accident

Our Immediate Action Plan for Bedford Cases

When you call Attorney911 after a Bedford trucking accident, we spring into action:

  1. Send Spoliation Letters (within 24-48 hours)

    • Formal legal notice demanding preservation of all evidence
    • Sent to trucking company, insurer, and all potentially liable parties
    • Destruction after receipt can result in court sanctions
  2. Preserve Electronic Data

    • ECM/Black Box: Records speed, braking, throttle position
    • ELD: Proves hours of service compliance
    • GPS/Telematics: Shows route, speed, location history
    • Cell Phone Records: Proves distraction
    • Dispatch Records: Shows scheduling pressure
  3. Secure Physical Evidence

    • Truck and Trailer: Before repairs or disposal
    • Failed Components: Tires, brakes, steering parts
    • Cargo and Securement Devices: For defect analysis
    • Accident Scene: Photos of skid marks, debris, road conditions
  4. Gather Witness Statements

    • Interview witnesses while memories are fresh
    • Obtain written statements
    • Preserve contact information
  5. Document Your Injuries

    • Photograph visible injuries immediately
    • Document injury progression over time
    • Keep detailed records of symptoms and treatment

How We Prove Negligence in Bedford Trucking Cases

To win your case, we must prove the trucking company or driver was negligent. Here’s how we do it:

1. Hours of Service Violations

Fatigue causes 31% of fatal truck crashes. We prove HOS violations by:

  • Analyzing ELD data for driving time and breaks
  • Reviewing dispatch records for scheduling pressure
  • Examining previous weeks’ logs for pattern violations
  • Checking for log falsification (comparing ELD to paper logs)

2. Driver Qualification Violations

Trucking companies must maintain Driver Qualification (DQ) Files containing:

  • Employment application and background check
  • Driving record from state licensing authority
  • Road test certificate or equivalent
  • Medical examiner’s certificate
  • Annual driving record review
  • Previous employer inquiries (3-year history)
  • Drug and alcohol test records

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

3. Maintenance and Inspection Violations

We prove maintenance failures by:

  • Reviewing maintenance records for deferred repairs
  • Analyzing inspection reports for known defects
  • Examining post-crash vehicle condition for worn parts
  • Checking CSA scores for pattern violations

4. Cargo Securement Violations

Federal regulations specify exact securement requirements. We prove violations by:

  • Examining cargo manifest and loading records
  • Reviewing securement equipment used
  • Analyzing accident dynamics for shift evidence
  • Checking tiedown working load limits

5. Distracted Driving Evidence

We prove distraction by:

  • Subpoenaing cell phone records
  • Examining dispatch communications
  • Reviewing in-cab technology usage
  • Analyzing ECM data for erratic driving patterns

6. Drug and Alcohol Violations

Truck drivers are subject to strict drug and alcohol testing:

  • Pre-employment testing
  • Random testing
  • Post-accident testing
  • Reasonable suspicion testing

We obtain test results and examine company testing policies.

Bedford-Specific Factors in Trucking Cases

Bedford’s unique characteristics create specific considerations in trucking accident cases:

Local Trucking Corridors and High-Risk Areas

  • Highway 121/183 Interchange: Heavy truck traffic serving Mid-Cities distribution centers
  • Airport Freeway (SH 183): Connects to DFW Airport and major cargo facilities
  • Bedford Road and Central Drive: Commercial truck traffic through residential areas
  • Industrial Park Areas: High truck volume during business hours
  • Construction Zones: Temporary traffic patterns confuse truck drivers

Weather and Road Conditions

Bedford’s location in North Texas creates unique challenges:

  • Ice Storms: Rare but catastrophic when they occur (like the 2021 storm that paralyzed DFW)
  • Summer Heat: Causes tire blowouts and brake fade
  • Severe Thunderstorms: Create visibility hazards and wet roads
  • Fog: Common in low-lying areas, reduces visibility
  • High Winds: Can destabilize high-profile trailers

Local Industry Factors

  • Alliance Global Logistics Hub: One of the largest logistics centers in the U.S., generating heavy truck traffic
  • DFW Airport Cargo: Massive air cargo operations requiring ground transportation
  • Retail Distribution: Serving major retailers in the metroplex
  • Manufacturing: Local manufacturing creates parts and materials transport
  • Construction: Ongoing development creates heavy equipment transport

Local Legal Landscape

  • Tarrant County Courts: Bedford cases are typically filed in Tarrant County courts
  • Jury Pools: Bedford juries understand local trucking issues
  • Statute of Limitations: Texas has a 2-year statute for personal injury claims
  • Comparative Negligence: Texas uses modified comparative negligence (51% bar rule)

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Bedford

If you’re involved in a trucking accident in Bedford, take these steps immediately:

  1. Call 911 and report the accident
  2. Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor
  3. Document the scene with photos and video if possible
  4. Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
  5. Collect witness contact information
  6. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
  7. Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Bedford Trucking Case?

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just any lawyer – you need a team with specific expertise in trucking litigation. Here’s why Bedford families trust Attorney911:

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. His experience includes:

  • Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
  • Multi-million dollar verdicts against major trucking companies
  • BP Texas City explosion litigation against multinational corporations
  • University of Houston hazing lawsuit ($10M+ active case)

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurers evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. This insider knowledge gives us an unfair advantage in negotiations and litigation.

Proven Track Record of Results

We’ve recovered $50+ million for Texas families, including:

  • $5+ million for a logging accident brain injury victim
  • $3.8+ million for a car accident amputation victim
  • $2.5+ million for truck crash victims
  • Millions for families in wrongful death cases

Bedford-Specific Knowledge

We understand:

  • Local trucking corridors and high-risk areas
  • Tarrant County courts and jury pools
  • Local industry patterns (Alliance Hub, DFW cargo, retail distribution)
  • Bedford’s unique weather challenges

Aggressive Evidence Preservation

We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve:

  • Black box data
  • Electronic logging device records
  • Maintenance records
  • Driver qualification files
  • Dashcam footage
  • Cell phone records

Willingness to Go to Trial

While most cases settle, 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.

Compassionate Client Service

Our clients consistently praise our personal attention:

“They treated me like FAMILY, not just another case number.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

“I was rear-ended and the team got right to work… I also got a very nice settlement.”
— MONGO SLADE, Attorney911 Client

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

Bedford Trucking Accident Case Examples

While we can’t discuss specific cases we’ve handled, recent trucking verdicts in Texas demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

  • $730 million (2021) – Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (Texas): Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman; $480M compensatory + $250M punitive
  • $150 million (2022) – Werner settlement (Texas): Two children killed on I-30; largest 18-wheeler settlement in U.S. history
  • $37.5 million (2024) – Trucking verdict (Texas): Catastrophic injuries from trucking accident
  • $35.5 million (Texas): Family injured in truck accident
  • $35 million (2025) – Fort Worth, TX: Largest verdict in Tarrant County history

These cases show that juries are willing to hold trucking companies accountable for negligence, especially when evidence of systematic safety violations is presented.

What Your Bedford Trucking Case Might Be Worth

Case values depend on many factors, but trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical auto policies:

Injury Type Typical Settlement Range
Soft Tissue (Whiplash) $15,000 – $60,000
Herniated Disc (Non-Surgical) $50,000 – $200,000
Herniated Disc (With Surgery) $346,000 – $1,205,000
Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate-Severe) $1,548,000 – $9,838,000+
Spinal Cord Injury (Paraplegia) $4,770,000 – $25,880,000+
Spinal Cord Injury (Quadriplegia) $3,500,000 – $5,000,000+
Amputation $1,945,000 – $8,630,000
Wrongful Death $1,910,000 – $9,520,000+

Factors that increase case value:

  • Clear liability (trucking company at fault)
  • Severe, permanent injuries
  • Long-term medical needs
  • Significant lost earning capacity
  • Gross negligence (punitive damages possible)
  • High insurance limits (trucking companies carry $750K-$5M+)

The Legal Process for Bedford Trucking Cases

  1. Free Consultation: We evaluate your case and explain your options
  2. Immediate Investigation: Send spoliation letters, preserve evidence
  3. Medical Care: Connect you with top Bedford medical providers
  4. Demand Letter: Formal claim to insurance company
  5. Negotiation: Settlement discussions with insurers
  6. Litigation: File lawsuit if fair settlement not offered
  7. Discovery: Exchange evidence with defendants
  8. Depositions: Question witnesses under oath
  9. Mediation: Attempt to settle before trial
  10. Trial: Present your case to a jury if necessary

Bedford Resources for Trucking Accident Victims

After a trucking accident, Bedford offers several important resources:

Medical Facilities

  • Texas Health Harris Methodist HEB: 1600 Hospital Pkwy, Bedford, TX 76022 – Level III Trauma Center
  • Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Grapevine: 1650 W College St, Grapevine, TX 76051 – Comprehensive trauma services
  • USMD Hospital at Arlington: 801 W Randol Mill Rd, Arlington, TX 76012 – Specialized orthopedic and neurological care
  • John Peter Smith Hospital (JPS): 1500 S Main St, Fort Worth, TX 76104 – Level I Trauma Center

Legal Resources

  • Tarrant County District Clerk: 100 W Weatherford St, Fort Worth, TX 76196 – Court filings and records
  • Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): 2501 SW Loop 820, Fort Worth, TX 76133 – Crash reports and road condition information
  • Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): safer.fmcsa.dot.gov – Trucking company safety records

Support Services

  • Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD): Local support for accident victims
  • Brain Injury Association of Texas: Resources for TBI survivors
  • Spinal Cord Injury Association of Texas: Support for paralysis victims
  • Texas Crime Victims Compensation Program: Financial assistance for crime victims

Frequently Asked Questions About Bedford Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after a trucking accident in Bedford?

Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene with photos, get the trucking company information, collect witness contact details, and call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911.

How quickly should I contact a Bedford trucking accident attorney?

Within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed quickly. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this evidence.

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. Sending this letter immediately puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.

What evidence should be preserved in my Bedford trucking case?

  • ECM/Black box data
  • Electronic logging device records
  • Driver qualification files
  • Maintenance records
  • Inspection reports
  • Dispatch records
  • Drug and alcohol test results
  • Cell phone records
  • Dashcam footage
  • The physical truck and trailer

How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Bedford?

Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly, and the sooner we start investigating, the stronger your case will be.

Who can I sue after a Bedford trucking accident?

Multiple parties may be liable:

  • The truck driver
  • The trucking company
  • The cargo owner
  • The loading company
  • Truck or parts manufacturers
  • Maintenance companies
  • Freight brokers
  • Government entities (in limited circumstances)

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, training, supervision, or maintenance.

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 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.

How do I find out if the trucking company has a bad safety record?

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 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

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 Bedford 18-wheeler accidents?

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 Bedford 18-wheeler accident cases worth?

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.

What if my loved one was killed in a Bedford trucking accident?

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 Bedford 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 Bedford 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.

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 Bedford 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.

Take Action Now: Your Bedford Trucking Case Can’t Wait

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Bedford 18-wheeler accident, time is not on your side. Evidence is disappearing as you read this. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests – you need someone protecting yours.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free, no-obligation consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and begin protecting your rights.

Remember:

  • No fee unless we win – you pay nothing upfront
  • We advance all costs – you’re never out of pocket
  • We preserve critical evidence – before it disappears
  • We fight for maximum compensation – not quick, lowball settlements
  • We treat you like family – not just another case number

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

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

Don’t let the trucking company take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.

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