18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Keller, TX | Attorney911

The Trucking Accident Attorneys Keller Families Trust

Every year, thousands of 18-wheeler accidents occur on Keller’s highways and interstates. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in Keller, you need an attorney who understands federal trucking regulations and how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck 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 Keller’s trucking corridors, from I-35W to the distribution centers along Highway 114. This local knowledge, combined with our understanding of FMCSA regulations, gives us an advantage in building your case.

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

Why Keller Trucking Accidents Are Different

Keller sits at the crossroads of major freight routes serving the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Our city’s proximity to Alliance Airport, the BNSF intermodal facility, and numerous distribution centers means heavy truck traffic on our roads every day.

The trucking corridors serving Keller include:

• I-35W – The primary north-south freight corridor connecting Fort Worth to Denton and beyond
• Highway 114 – Major east-west route serving Alliance Airport and industrial parks
• Highway 170 – Connects Keller to the Alliance corridor and north Fort Worth
• Keller-Haslet Road – Serves local distribution centers and warehouses
• Bear Creek Parkway – Connects to industrial areas and major highways

These routes see significant truck traffic from major carriers, local delivery vehicles, and oilfield service trucks. The mix of local commuters and commercial traffic creates dangerous conditions that require specialized legal knowledge.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Keller

Jackknife Accidents on I-35W and Highway 114

Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often sweeping across multiple lanes of traffic. These terrifying crashes are common on Keller’s highways, especially:

• During sudden braking in heavy traffic
• On wet or icy roads (Keller sees occasional winter ice storms)
• When drivers take curves too fast (like the I-35W/Highway 114 interchange)
• With empty or lightly loaded trailers that are more prone to swing

Jackknife accidents often result in multi-vehicle pileups that block all lanes of traffic. The trailer can crush smaller vehicles caught in its path, causing catastrophic injuries.

Underride Collisions at Keller Intersections

Underride collisions are among the most deadly trucking accidents. These occur when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer, often shearing off the roof of the passenger vehicle. Keller’s intersections are particularly vulnerable:

• Bear Creek Parkway and Keller Parkway – Heavy truck traffic from distribution centers
• Keller-Haslet Road and Highway 170 – Trucks making wide turns at this busy intersection
• I-35W exit ramps – Trucks stopping suddenly at traffic lights
• Highway 114 intersections – Trucks making wide right turns into business parks

Federal law requires rear underride guards on trailers, but there’s no requirement for side underride guards – making Keller’s intersection accidents particularly dangerous.

Tire Blowouts on Keller Highways

Tire blowouts are a significant hazard on Keller’s roads, especially during our hot Texas summers. The extreme heat causes tire failure, and Keller’s truck traffic means blowouts happen regularly:

• I-35W – Long stretches with heavy truck traffic
• Highway 114 – Trucks serving Alliance Airport and industrial parks
• Highway 170 – Oilfield service trucks with heavy loads

When a truck tire blows, the driver may lose control, and debris can strike following vehicles. Tire remnants (“road gators”) create additional hazards for other motorists.

Brake Failures on Keller’s Grades

While Keller is relatively flat compared to other parts of Texas, our roads still have enough grade to cause brake problems:

• I-35W approaches to bridges – Slight grades that can cause brake fade
• Highway 114 near industrial areas – Trucks descending from loading docks
• Local roads with speed changes – Trucks stopping at traffic lights

Brake failures are particularly dangerous when trucks are fully loaded. The stopping distance for an 80,000-pound truck is nearly two football fields at highway speeds.

Wide Turn Accidents in Keller Business Districts

Keller’s business districts see many wide turn accidents as trucks navigate tight spaces:

• Bear Creek Parkway business area – Trucks making deliveries to stores and restaurants
• Keller Town Center – Delivery trucks navigating shopping center parking lots
• Industrial parks along Highway 114 – Large trucks accessing loading docks

These accidents often involve pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles caught in the truck’s blind spot during the turn.

Blind Spot Accidents on Keller Highways

The “No-Zone” – the blind spots around large trucks – causes many accidents in Keller:

• I-35W – Lane change accidents during heavy traffic
• Highway 114 – Trucks changing lanes near Alliance Airport exits
• Highway 170 – Merging accidents where cars enter blind spots

The right side blind spot is particularly dangerous and extends much further back than most drivers realize.

Fatigue-Related Crashes on Keller Freight Routes

Driver fatigue is a major factor in Keller trucking accidents. The pressure to meet delivery deadlines leads to hours-of-service violations:

• I-35W – Long-haul drivers pushing limits to reach Dallas or Fort Worth
• Highway 114 – Local drivers working long shifts at distribution centers
• Highway 170 – Oilfield service drivers working extended hours

ELD data often reveals drivers exceeding their legal driving limits, especially during peak freight periods.

The Devastating Injuries from Keller Trucking Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. A fully loaded truck can weigh 80,000 pounds – 20-25 times more than a passenger car. The impact forces are devastating.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI is common in Keller trucking accidents due to the extreme forces involved. Symptoms may include:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory loss and confusion
• Mood changes and depression
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sleep disturbances
• Speech difficulties

Many TBI victims require lifelong care and rehabilitation. The lifetime costs can exceed $3 million.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Spinal cord damage often results in permanent paralysis:

• Paraplegia – Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia – Loss of function in all four limbs
• Incomplete injuries – Partial loss of function

These injuries require extensive medical care, home modifications, and often 24/7 assistance. Lifetime costs can exceed $5 million.

Amputations

Amputations occur when limbs are crushed or severed in the accident:

• Traumatic amputations at the scene
• Surgical amputations due to severe damage
• Multiple amputations in severe crashes

Amputees face ongoing medical needs, prosthetic replacements, and psychological trauma.

Severe Burns

Burns occur in Keller trucking accidents from:

• Fuel tank ruptures and fires
• Chemical spills from hazmat loads
• Electrical fires from damaged wiring

Burn victims often require multiple surgeries and face permanent scarring and disfigurement.

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can pursue wrongful death claims. These cases seek compensation for:

• Lost future income
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish
• Funeral expenses

Who Can Be Held Liable in Your Keller Trucking Accident?

Multiple parties may be responsible for your injuries:

The Truck Driver

Driver negligence is often the direct cause of accidents:

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

The Trucking Company

Trucking companies are often vicariously liable for their drivers’ actions and may be directly liable for:

• Negligent hiring – Failing to check driver backgrounds
• Negligent training – Inadequate safety training
• Negligent supervision – Failing to monitor driver performance
• Negligent maintenance – Poor vehicle upkeep
• Negligent scheduling – Pressuring drivers to violate hours-of-service rules

Cargo Owners and Shippers

The companies that own and ship the cargo may be liable for:

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

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
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

Defective equipment causes many accidents:

• Brake system failures
• Tire defects causing blowouts
• Steering mechanism failures
• Lighting system defects
• Coupling device failures

Government Entities

In some cases, government agencies may share liability:

• Dangerous road design
• Failure to maintain roads
• Inadequate signage
• Improper work zone setup

The Evidence We Preserve in Keller Trucking Cases

Evidence in Keller 18-wheeler accident cases disappears quickly. We act immediately to preserve:

Electronic Data

• ECM/Black Box Data – Records speed, braking, throttle position (can be overwritten in 30 days)
• ELD Records – Proves hours-of-service violations (retention varies)
• GPS/Telematics Data – Shows route, speed, location history
• Cell Phone Records – Proves distracted driving
• Dashcam Footage – Often deleted within 7-14 days

Driver Records

• Driver Qualification File – Hiring and training documentation
• Driving Record – Previous violations and accidents
• Medical Certification – Health issues affecting driving
• Drug/Alcohol Tests – Impairment at time of accident

Vehicle Records

• Maintenance Records – Proof of deferred maintenance
• Inspection Reports – Pre-trip and post-trip inspections
• Out-of-Service Orders – Previous safety violations
• Tire Records – Age and replacement history

Company Records

• Dispatch Logs – Pressure to violate regulations
• Safety Policies – Proof of inadequate procedures
• Training Materials – Inadequate driver training
• CSA Scores – Carrier safety history

The FMCSA Violations We Find in Keller Cases

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations govern every aspect of commercial trucking. Violations are strong evidence of negligence:

Hours of Service Violations

• Driving more than 11 hours after 10 hours off duty
• Driving beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
• Failing to take required 30-minute breaks
• Exceeding 60/70-hour weekly limits
• Falsifying log books or ELD records

Driver Qualification Violations

• Hiring drivers without proper CDL
• Failing to check driving records
• Hiring drivers with disqualifying medical conditions
• Incomplete or missing Driver Qualification Files

Vehicle Maintenance Violations

• Brake system deficiencies
• Worn or improperly adjusted brakes
• Tire violations (worn tread, improper inflation)
• Lighting and reflector violations
• Coupling device defects

Cargo Securement Violations

• Inadequate tiedowns
• Improper load distribution
• Failure to use blocking or bracing
• Overloaded trailers

Drug and Alcohol Violations

• Positive drug or alcohol tests
• Failure to conduct required testing
• Operating under the influence

The Keller Trucking Accident Case Process

Immediate Action (First 48 Hours)

• Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
• Deploy accident reconstruction experts
• Obtain police crash report
• Photograph injuries and vehicle damage
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Investigation (Days 1-30)

• Subpoena ECM/Black Box data
• Request ELD records
• Obtain Driver Qualification File
• Request maintenance records
• Subpoena cell phone records
• Obtain dispatch records
• Review carrier’s CSA scores

Medical Treatment and Documentation

• Connect clients with Keller medical providers
• Document all injuries and treatment
• Obtain medical records and bills
• Develop life care plan for catastrophic injuries
• Calculate future medical needs

Demand and Negotiation

• Prepare comprehensive demand package
• Calculate all damages (economic and non-economic)
• Negotiate with insurance companies
• Reject lowball settlement offers

Litigation (If Necessary)

• File lawsuit in appropriate court
• Conduct discovery (depositions, document requests)
• Retain expert witnesses
• File motions to compel evidence
• Prepare case for trial

Resolution

• Negotiate settlement
• Proceed to trial if necessary
• Distribute settlement funds
• Assist with medical lien resolution

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Keller Trucking Case?

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting trucking companies since 1998. Our firm has handled cases against major carriers including Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña worked for a national insurance defense firm before joining Attorney911. He knows exactly how trucking insurers evaluate, minimize, and deny claims – and now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

Federal Court Experience

We’re admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, giving us the ability to handle interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions for Keller trucking accident victims, including:

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

Local Knowledge of Keller

We understand Keller’s roads, courts, and trucking patterns. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.

Bilingual Services

Hablamos Español. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña and staff member Zulema provide direct Spanish-language representation.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. We advance all case costs.

Keller Trucking Accident Frequently Asked Questions

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Keller:

1. Call 911 and report the accident
2. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
3. Document the scene with photos and video
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 an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately

How quickly should I contact a Keller trucking accident attorney?

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.

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 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 a Keller 18-wheeler accident?

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 carrier)
• Government entities (for road defects)

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, and 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, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened.

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.

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.

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 Keller 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 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Keller?

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 Keller 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

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

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 Keller 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 Keller 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.

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 Keller 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?

This can complicate liability, but both the independent contractor 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 often result from:

• Improper securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
• Overloaded trailers
• Failure to use proper blocking and bracing
• Defective securement equipment

The cargo owner, loading company, and trucking company may share liability.

What if a tire blowout caused my Keller accident?

Tire blowouts often result from:

• Underinflated tires
• Overloaded vehicles
• Worn or aging tires
• Road debris
• Manufacturing defects

The trucking company, tire manufacturer, and maintenance provider may share liability.

How do brake failures get investigated?

Brake failure investigations include:

• Analyzing ECM data for brake application
• Inspecting brake adjustment records
• Reviewing maintenance history
• Examining failed components
• Checking inspection reports

Brake system deficiencies are among the most common FMCSA violations.

What if the truck’s dashcam recorded the accident?

Dashcam footage can be critical evidence. We demand preservation of this footage immediately, as it’s often overwritten within days.

Can I get the truck’s GPS data?

Yes. GPS and telematics data shows the truck’s route, speed, and location history. 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 to ensure you can recover compensation.

How are future medical expenses calculated?

We work with medical experts and life care planners to:

• Document all current medical needs
• Project future treatment requirements
• Calculate lifetime care costs
• Develop comprehensive life care plans

What is loss of consortium?

Loss of consortium compensates family members for the loss of companionship, affection, and services resulting from a loved one’s injuries.

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)

Texas caps punitive damages at the greater of (2x economic damages + non-economic damages up to $750,000) or $200,000.

How do you prove the driver was fatigued?

We prove fatigue through:

• ELD data showing hours-of-service violations
• Dispatch records showing pressure to meet deadlines
• Driver logs (if paper logs were used)
• Witness testimony about driver behavior
• Expert analysis of crash dynamics

What is the FMCSA and how does it help my case?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulates commercial trucking. Their regulations establish safety standards that trucking companies must follow. Violations of these regulations are strong evidence of negligence.

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 Keller trucking cases?

We work with:

• Accident reconstruction experts
• Medical experts
• Life care planners
• Vocational experts
• Economic experts
• 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 (for surviving children)
• Mental anguish
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses prior to death
• Pain and suffering experienced by decedent before death

Contact Keller’s Trucking Accident Attorneys Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Keller 18-wheeler accident, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every hour.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Our Keller trucking accident lawyers are available 24/7 to help you.

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

“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 us today and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.