Tragedy on I-35: Fort Worth 18-Wheeler Accident Claims Life, Exposes Deadly Trucking Industry Risks

The Crash That Changed Everything in an Instant

The northbound lanes of I-35 in Fort Worth became a scene of devastation on February 18, 2026. Around 2:10 PM, a pickup truck slammed into the rear trailer of a semi-truck near the Basswood area, entering the Highway 287 ramp. The impact was catastrophic. The pickup driver lost control, and within moments, first responders pronounced them deceased at the scene.

All northbound lanes were closed for hours. TxDOT urgently advised motorists to seek alternate routes. But for one Fort Worth family, the detour came too late—their world had already been shattered.

This wasn’t just another traffic accident. It was a preventable tragedy caused by the deadly combination of commercial trucking risks that plague Fort Worth’s highways every day.

What Really Happened on I-35? The Facts We Know

Fort Worth police responded to the collision near I-35 northbound entering the Highway 287 ramp. According to their report:

• A pickup truck struck the rear trailer of a semi-truck
• The pickup driver lost control of their vehicle
• The pickup driver was pronounced deceased at the scene
• All northbound lanes were closed as a result
• TxDOT advised drivers to avoid the area

What we don’t know—yet—is why this happened. But based on decades of trucking litigation experience, we can identify the most likely causes.

The Most Probable Causes of This Deadly Collision

1. Rear-End Underride: The Silent Killer on Fort Worth Highways

Rear underride collisions are among the deadliest trucking accidents. When a smaller vehicle strikes the back of a trailer, it can slide underneath, shearing off the passenger compartment at windshield level.

Why This Matters for Your Case:
– Rear impact guards are federally required (49 CFR § 393.86) but often inadequate
– Many guards fail at speeds as low as 30 mph
– Underride crashes frequently result in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries

The Law:
Federal regulations require rear impact guards on trailers manufactured after January 26, 1998. These guards must prevent underride at 30 mph impacts. However, many older trailers still in use lack proper guards, and even newer guards often fail to meet safety standards.

2. Brake Failure: The Hidden Time Bomb in Commercial Trucks

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. On I-35’s busy corridors, a semi-truck’s braking system must handle 80,000 pounds of momentum. When brakes fail, the results are often fatal.

FMCSA Requirements (49 CFR § 393.40-55):
– All commercial motor vehicles must have properly functioning brake systems
– Service brakes must be on all wheels
– Parking/emergency brake systems are mandatory
– Brake adjustment must be maintained within specifications
– Air brake systems must meet specific requirements

Maintenance Records Tell the Story:
Trucking companies are required to maintain systematic inspection and maintenance records (49 CFR § 396.3). When we investigate cases like this, we subpoena:
– Brake inspection and adjustment records
– Repair work orders
– Parts purchase documentation
– Driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs)

3. Driver Fatigue: The Invisible Epidemic on I-35

The pickup driver may have been fatigued, but so might the semi-truck driver. Fatigue is a factor in approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes.

FMCSA Hours of Service Regulations (49 CFR § 395):
– Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
– Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
– 30-minute break required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
– 60/70 hour weekly limits
– 34-hour restart provision

The Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Mandate:
Since December 18, 2017, most commercial drivers must use ELDs that automatically record driving time. This data is crucial evidence in fatigue-related cases.

4. Distracted Driving: The Modern Scourge of Fort Worth Highways

Both the pickup driver and the semi-truck driver may have been distracted. Distracted driving is a growing problem in Texas, particularly with the rise of smartphones and in-cab technology.

FMCSA Prohibitions (49 CFR § 392.82):
– Drivers are prohibited from using hand-held mobile telephones while driving
– Reaching for a mobile phone in a manner requiring leaving the seated position is prohibited
– Texting while driving is strictly prohibited (49 CFR § 392.80)

Cell Phone Records Are Critical Evidence:
We routinely subpoena cell phone records in trucking accident cases. These records can prove distraction at the time of the crash.

5. Following Too Closely: The Deadly Game of Highway Chicken

Commercial trucks require significantly longer stopping distances than passenger vehicles. A fully loaded truck traveling at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields.

FMCSA Regulation (49 CFR § 392.11):
“The driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicle and the traffic upon, and conditions of, the highway.”

Evidence of Tailgating:
– ECM data showing following distance and brake application
– Witness statements
– Surveillance footage from nearby businesses
– Accident reconstruction analysis

The Trucking Company’s Responsibility: More Than Just the Driver

In cases like this, the semi-truck driver is often just one piece of a much larger puzzle. The trucking company bears significant responsibility under multiple legal doctrines.

1. Respondeat Superior: The Employer’s Liability for Employee Actions

Under the doctrine of respondeat superior (“let the master answer”), employers are liable for their employees’ negligent acts committed within the scope of employment.

Key Questions We Investigate:
– Was the driver an employee or independent contractor?
– Was the driver acting within the scope of their employment?
– Was the driver performing job duties at the time of the accident?

2. Negligent Hiring: When Companies Put Dangerous Drivers on the Road

Trucking companies have a legal duty to hire qualified, safe drivers. When they fail in this duty, they can be held liable for negligent hiring.

FMCSA Driver Qualification Requirements (49 CFR § 391.11):
– Minimum age of 21 for interstate drivers
– Ability to read and speak English sufficiently
– Ability to safely operate the CMV and cargo type
– Physical qualification under § 391.41
– Valid commercial driver’s license (CDL)
– Completion of a driver’s road test or equivalent

The Driver Qualification File (49 CFR § 391.51):
Motor carriers must maintain a file for each driver containing:
– Employment application
– Motor vehicle record from state licensing authority
– Road test certificate or equivalent
– Medical examiner’s certificate
– Annual driving record review
– Previous employer inquiries (3-year driving history)
– Drug and alcohol test records

What We Look For:
– Incomplete or missing driver qualification files
– Hiring drivers with poor safety records
– Failure to verify previous employment
– Hiring drivers with suspended or revoked licenses
– Failure to conduct proper background checks

3. Negligent Training: When Inadequate Training Leads to Disaster

Trucking companies must provide proper training to their drivers. Inadequate training can lead to catastrophic accidents.

Training Requirements:
– Safe operation of commercial motor vehicles
– Cargo securement procedures
– Hours of service compliance
– Emergency maneuvers
– Pre-trip inspection procedures

Evidence of Inadequate Training:
– Lack of documented training programs
– Failure to train on specific vehicle types
– No refresher training for experienced drivers
– No training on new regulations or equipment

4. Negligent Supervision: When Companies Turn a Blind Eye to Safety Violations

Trucking companies must monitor their drivers’ performance and compliance with safety regulations. Failure to do so can result in liability for negligent supervision.

Supervision Requirements:
– Monitoring hours of service compliance
– Reviewing driver vehicle inspection reports
– Tracking safety performance metrics
– Addressing patterns of violations
– Ensuring compliance with drug and alcohol testing

What We Investigate:
– Failure to monitor ELD data
– Ignoring patterns of hours of service violations
– Failure to address maintenance issues reported by drivers
– No system for tracking and addressing safety violations

5. Negligent Maintenance: When Profit Comes Before Safety

Trucking companies have a legal duty to maintain their vehicles in safe operating condition. When they fail in this duty, they can be held liable for negligent maintenance.

FMCSA Maintenance Requirements (49 CFR § 396):
– Systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of all motor vehicles
– Driver pre-trip and post-trip inspections
– Annual comprehensive inspections
– Record retention for 1 year

Common Maintenance Failures:
– Brake system deficiencies
– Tire failures
– Lighting and visibility issues
– Steering system problems
– Coupling device failures
– Suspension system defects

The Physics of Disaster: Why Trucking Accidents Are So Deadly

The sheer size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles makes these accidents particularly deadly.

The Brutal Mathematics of Trucking Accidents

What This Means:
– A fully loaded semi-truck carries 20-25 times the kinetic energy of a passenger car
– The truck’s stopping distance is 40-75% longer than a car’s
– In a collision, the smaller vehicle absorbs the vast majority of the impact force

The Most Common Catastrophic Injuries in Trucking Accidents

1. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
   – Caused by sudden acceleration/deceleration forces
   – Can result in permanent cognitive impairment
   – Lifetime care costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+

2. Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis
   – Often results in paraplegia or quadriplegia
   – Lifetime care costs: $1.1 million to $5 million+
   – Requires extensive medical treatment and home modifications

3. Amputations
   – Traumatic amputations at the scene
   – Surgical amputations due to severe crush injuries
   – Requires prosthetics and extensive rehabilitation

4. Severe Burns
   – Fuel tank ruptures and fires
   – Chemical burns from cargo spills
   – Requires multiple reconstructive surgeries

5. Internal Organ Damage
   – Liver lacerations
   – Spleen ruptures
   – Kidney damage
   – Internal bleeding

6. Wrongful Death
   – Immediate fatalities at the scene
   – Deaths resulting from injuries sustained in the crash
   – Devastating impact on surviving family members

The Legal Battle Ahead: What the Family Faces

For the family of the deceased pickup driver, the legal journey has just begun. Here’s what they can expect:

1. The Insurance Company’s Playbook

Within hours of the accident, the trucking company’s insurance adjuster will be on the scene. Their job is to protect the company’s interests, not the victim’s.

Common Insurance Tactics:
– Offering quick, lowball settlements before the full extent of damages is known
– Pressuring the family to give recorded statements
– Blaming the victim for the accident
– Delaying the claims process
– Using surveillance to find evidence that minimizes injuries
– Hiring “independent” medical examiners to dispute injury claims

Our Insider Advantage:
Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these tactics work. He spent years on the other side, learning how adjusters are trained to minimize claims. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for victims.

2. The Evidence Preservation Battle

Critical evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. The family must act immediately to preserve:

• Electronic Data:
• Engine Control Module (ECM) / Black Box data
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
• GPS and telematics data
• Dashcam footage

• Cell phone records

• Driver Records:

• Driver Qualification File
• Employment application and background check
• Driving record
• Medical certification
• Drug and alcohol test results

• Training records

• Vehicle Records:

• Maintenance and repair records
• Inspection reports
• Out-of-service orders
• Tire records

• Brake inspection and adjustment records

• Company Records:

• Hours of service records
• Dispatch logs
• Safety policies and procedures
• Training curricula
• Accident history

The 48-Hour Rule:
We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained. This legal notice demands that all evidence be preserved and puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.

3. The Investigation Process

Our investigation will focus on:

1. Accident Reconstruction:
   – Analyzing skid marks and debris patterns
   – Reviewing ECM and ELD data
   – Examining vehicle damage
   – Determining speed and braking patterns

2. Driver Analysis:
   – Reviewing the driver’s qualification file
   – Checking for previous violations or accidents
   – Analyzing hours of service compliance
   – Investigating potential distraction or impairment

3. Vehicle Inspection:
   – Examining the truck and trailer for defects
   – Reviewing maintenance records
   – Checking brake system performance
   – Inspecting cargo securement

4. Company Investigation:
   – Reviewing safety policies and procedures
   – Analyzing training programs
   – Investigating supervision practices
   – Checking compliance with FMCSA regulations

4. Potential Legal Claims

The family may have multiple legal claims against various parties:

1. Wrongful Death Claim:
   – Against the truck driver
   – Against the trucking company
   – Against other potentially liable parties

2. Survival Action:
   – For the pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death

3. Potential Punitive Damages:
   – If the trucking company acted with gross negligence or reckless disregard for safety

5. The Settlement or Trial Process

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to court. The process typically includes:

1. Demand Letter:
   – Comprehensive demand calculating all damages
   – Detailed explanation of liability
   – Documentation of all losses

2. Negotiation:
   – Back-and-forth with the insurance company
   – Rejecting lowball offers
   – Preparing for litigation if necessary

3. Litigation (if needed):
   – Filing the lawsuit
   – Conducting discovery
   – Taking depositions
   – Preparing for trial

4. Trial (if necessary):
   – Presenting the case to a jury
   – Proving liability and damages
   – Seeking justice for the family

The Trucking Industry’s Dark Secrets: Why These Accidents Keep Happening

This tragedy on I-35 is not an isolated incident. It’s part of a larger pattern of preventable trucking accidents caused by systemic industry problems.

1. The Pressure to Violate Hours of Service Regulations

Trucking companies routinely pressure drivers to violate hours of service regulations to meet delivery deadlines. This pressure comes from:

• Unrealistic delivery schedules
• Financial incentives for on-time deliveries
• Threats of termination for missed deadlines
• Lack of alternative parking for mandatory rest breaks

The Result:
Fatigued drivers who can’t react quickly enough to avoid accidents.

2. The Maintenance Deferral Game

Maintenance is expensive. Many trucking companies defer maintenance to save money, gambling with lives in the process.

Common Deferred Maintenance Issues:
– Brake system neglect
– Tire wear and aging
– Lighting system failures
– Suspension system problems
– Coupling device wear

The Result:
Mechanical failures that cause catastrophic accidents.

3. The Driver Shortage and Its Consequences

The trucking industry faces a severe driver shortage, leading to:

• Hiring unqualified drivers
• Skipping proper background checks
• Reducing training requirements
• Pressuring drivers to work longer hours

The Result:
Dangerous drivers on the road with inadequate training and supervision.

4. The Electronic Logging Device Loopholes

While ELDs were supposed to reduce hours of service violations, they’ve created new problems:

• Drivers falsifying logs by misclassifying duty status
• Companies pressuring drivers to “edit” logs
• Drivers using multiple ELDs to circumvent limits
• Technical failures that result in lost data

The Result:
The illusion of compliance while drivers continue to operate while fatigued.

5. The Corporate Culture of Profit Over Safety

At many trucking companies, safety takes a backseat to profit. This culture manifests in:

• Inadequate safety budgets
• Minimal training programs
• Lack of safety incentives
• Punishment for drivers who report safety concerns
• Reward systems that encourage risky behavior

The Result:
A systemic disregard for safety that puts everyone on the road at risk.

Fort Worth’s Trucking Corridors: Where Danger Lurks

I-35 is one of Fort Worth’s most dangerous trucking corridors, but it’s not the only one. These highways see heavy commercial traffic and frequent accidents:

1. I-35: The NAFTA Corridor

• Primary north-south route through Texas
• Heavy commercial traffic between Mexico and the U.S.
• Frequent congestion and dangerous merging areas
• High risk of rear-end and underride collisions

2. I-20: The East-West Freight Highway

• Connects Fort Worth to Dallas and points east
• Heavy truck traffic serving the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex
• High risk of fatigue-related accidents due to long stretches

3. I-30: The Dallas Connection

• Connects Fort Worth to Dallas
• Heavy commuter and commercial traffic mix
• High risk of congestion-related accidents

4. Highway 287: The Local Trucking Route

• Connects Fort Worth to Wichita Falls and Amarillo
• Heavy local truck traffic serving distribution centers
• High risk of intersection accidents

5. I-820: The Loop Around Danger

• Encircles Fort Worth
• Heavy truck traffic serving local businesses
• High risk of merging and lane-change accidents

The Legal Landscape: What Texas Law Says About Trucking Accidents

Texas has specific laws and legal doctrines that apply to trucking accidents:

1. Comparative Negligence (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 33.001)

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means:

• If the victim is 50% or less at fault, they can recover damages
• If the victim is more than 50% at fault, they cannot recover anything
• The victim’s recovery is reduced by their percentage of fault

Example:
If a jury finds the victim 20% at fault and awards $1,000,000 in damages, the victim would recover $800,000.

2. Statute of Limitations (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003)

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims is 2 years from the date of the accident.

Critical Note:
While you have 2 years to file a lawsuit, you should contact an attorney immediately. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner we can begin our investigation, the stronger your case will be.

3. Wrongful Death Damages (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 71.004)

In wrongful death cases, surviving family members may recover:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred before death
• Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death

4. Punitive Damages (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 41.003)

Punitive damages may be available when the defendant acted with:

• Gross negligence
• Willful misconduct
• Conscious indifference to safety
• Fraud

In Texas, punitive damages are capped at the greater of:
– (2 × economic damages) + (non-economic damages up to $750,000), or
– $200,000

Landmark Cases That Shape Trucking Litigation in Texas

While we can’t comment on the specifics of this case, we can discuss landmark trucking verdicts that demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

1. Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (2021) – $730 Million Verdict

• Location: Texas
• Details: A Navy propeller being transported as an oversize load fell off a trailer and killed a 73-year-old woman
• Key Factors: Gross negligence in securing the load, inadequate safety measures
• Result: $480 million in compensatory damages, $250 million in punitive damages

Why It Matters:
This case demonstrates that Texas juries will hold trucking companies accountable for gross negligence, even when the damages seem astronomical.

2. Werner Enterprises Settlement (2022) – $150 Million

• Location: Texas
• Details: Two children were killed in an accident involving a Werner Enterprises truck
• Key Factors: Allegations of driver fatigue and inadequate training
• Result: Largest 18-wheeler settlement in U.S. history

Why It Matters:
This case shows that trucking companies with deep pockets can be held accountable for catastrophic losses.

3. Multiple Fort Worth Trucking Verdicts in the $10-50 Million Range

• Location: Tarrant County, Texas
• Details: Various cases involving catastrophic injuries and wrongful death
• Key Factors: Hours of service violations, maintenance failures, negligent hiring
• Result: Multiple verdicts exceeding $10 million

Why It Matters:
These cases demonstrate that Fort Worth juries understand the devastating impact of trucking accidents and are willing to hold companies accountable.

The Investigation: What We Would Look For in This Case

Based on our experience with similar cases, here’s what we would investigate in this I-35 tragedy:

1. The Truck’s Electronic Data

• ECM/Black Box Data: Speed, braking, throttle position in the moments before impact
• ELD Records: Hours of service compliance, driving time before the accident
• GPS Data: Route history, speed patterns
• Dashcam Footage: Video of the accident and driver behavior

2. The Driver’s Background

• Driver Qualification File: Employment application, background check, training records
• Driving Record: Previous violations or accidents
• Medical Certification: Any conditions that could affect driving ability
• Drug and Alcohol Tests: Pre-employment and random test results

3. The Truck’s Maintenance History

• Brake Inspection Records: When were the brakes last inspected and adjusted?
• Tire Records: Age, tread depth, and replacement history
• Lighting System: Functionality of all required lights
• Coupling Devices: Condition of the fifth wheel and kingpin

4. The Trucking Company’s Safety Record

• CSA Scores: The company’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability scores
• Inspection History: Previous out-of-service violations
• Accident History: Previous crashes involving the company
• Safety Policies: Written safety procedures and training programs

5. The Accident Scene

• Skid Marks: Evidence of braking or evasive maneuvers
• Debris Pattern: Location and distribution of debris
• Road Conditions: Surface condition, visibility, signage
• Surveillance Footage: Nearby businesses with security cameras

6. Witness Statements

• Other Drivers: Accounts from drivers who witnessed the accident
• First Responders: Police and emergency personnel observations
• Trucking Company Representatives: Statements from dispatchers or safety managers

The Damages: What Compensation Might Be Available

In a case like this, multiple categories of damages may be available:

1. Economic Damages

• Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to the accident and recovery
• Lost Earning Capacity: Reduction in future earning ability
• Funeral and Burial Expenses: In wrongful death cases
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement of the pickup truck

2. Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain from injuries
• Mental Anguish: Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression
• Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in activities
• Disfigurement: Scarring, visible injuries
• Loss of Consortium: Impact on family relationships

3. Punitive Damages

• Gross Negligence: If the trucking company acted with conscious indifference to safety
• Willful Misconduct: If the company intentionally violated safety regulations
• Fraud: If the company falsified records or destroyed evidence

The Legal Process: What to Expect

If you’re considering legal action after a trucking accident, here’s what to expect:

1. Initial Consultation

• Free case evaluation
• Discussion of the accident details
• Explanation of your legal rights
• No obligation to proceed

2. Case Acceptance

• Decision to take your case
• Signing of representation agreement
• Immediate preservation of evidence

3. Investigation

• Accident reconstruction
• Evidence gathering
• Expert retention
• Liability analysis

4. Medical Treatment

• Coordination with healthcare providers
• Documentation of injuries
• Future care planning

5. Demand Letter

• Comprehensive demand to the insurance company
• Calculation of all damages
• Documentation of liability

6. Negotiation

• Settlement discussions
• Rejection of lowball offers
• Preparation for litigation

7. Litigation (if necessary)

• Filing the lawsuit
• Discovery process
• Depositions
• Motion practice

8. Trial (if necessary)

• Jury selection
• Presentation of evidence
• Closing arguments
• Verdict

9. Appeal (if necessary)

• Post-trial motions
• Appellate briefing
• Oral arguments
• Appellate decision

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Trucking Accident Case

When you’re up against a trucking company and their team of lawyers, you need an advocate with the experience and resources to fight back. Here’s why Attorney911 is the right choice:

1. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998. With over 25 years of experience, he knows how to build strong cases and secure maximum compensation.

2. Federal Court Experience

We’re admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for interstate trucking cases that often involve federal regulations.

3. Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for victims.

4. Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims. Our track record includes:
– $5+ Million – Logging Brain Injury Settlement
– $3.8+ Million – Car Accident Amputation Settlement
– $2.5+ Million – Truck Crash Recovery
– Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

5. Comprehensive Investigation Resources

We have the resources to conduct thorough investigations:
– Accident reconstruction experts
– Medical experts
– Vocational experts
– Economic experts
– Life care planners

6. Aggressive Litigation Approach

We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This aggressive approach creates leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready to fight for you in court if necessary.

7. Local Knowledge of Fort Worth and Tarrant County

We know Fort Worth’s highways, trucking corridors, and courtrooms. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.

8. Bilingual Services

Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our staff includes bilingual team members. We can communicate directly with Spanish-speaking clients without interpreters.

9. Contingency Fee Representation

We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation.

10. Compassionate, Personalized Service

We treat our clients like family. You’re not just a case number to us. We’re here to support you through every step of the legal process.

What to Do If You’ve Been in a Trucking Accident in Fort Worth

If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident in Fort Worth, follow these steps:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

• Go to the emergency room or urgent care
• Follow all treatment recommendations
• Document all injuries and symptoms

2. Report the Accident

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Request a police report
• Obtain the police report number

3. Document the Scene

• Take photos of all vehicles involved
• Photograph the accident scene from multiple angles
• Document road conditions, traffic signs, and weather
• Take pictures of your injuries

4. Collect Information

• Get the truck driver’s name, contact information, and CDL number
• Obtain the trucking company’s name and DOT number
• Collect contact information from witnesses
• Note the responding officer’s name and badge number

5. Preserve Evidence

• Do not repair or dispose of your vehicle
• Keep all medical records and bills
• Save all correspondence with insurance companies
• Document all expenses related to the accident

6. Do NOT Give Recorded Statements

• Do not speak to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster
• Do not give recorded statements without legal representation
• Refer all communications to your attorney

7. Contact an Experienced Trucking Accident Attorney

• Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911
• Schedule a free consultation
• Get immediate help preserving evidence

The Time to Act Is Now

Every hour you wait, evidence in your trucking accident case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests.

Don’t let them win. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence and start building your case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trucking Accidents in Fort Worth

1. How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Texas?

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit. However, you should contact an attorney immediately. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner we can begin our investigation, the stronger your case will be.

2. Who can be held liable in a trucking accident?

Multiple parties may be liable in a trucking accident:
– The truck driver
– The trucking company
– The cargo owner or shipper
– The company that loaded the cargo
– Truck or parts manufacturers
– Maintenance companies
– Freight brokers
– The truck owner (if different from the carrier)
– Government entities (for road defects)

3. What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?

A spoliation letter is a legal notice demanding that all evidence related to the accident be preserved. This includes:
– ECM/Black Box data
– ELD records
– Maintenance records
– Driver qualification files
– Cell phone records
– Dashcam footage

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

4. What is an ELD and why does it matter?

An Electronic Logging Device (ELD) is a federally mandated device that records a driver’s hours of service. ELD data is crucial evidence in fatigue-related cases because it:
– Automatically records driving time
– Cannot be easily altered
– Shows when the driver took required breaks
– Documents the driver’s duty status

5. What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Even if the driver was an independent contractor, both the driver and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.

6. How much is my trucking accident case 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 limits than typical auto policies, allowing for larger recoveries in catastrophic cases.

7. Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to court. This aggressive approach creates leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready to fight for you if necessary.

8. How long will my case take?

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.

9. 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.

10. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system. As long as you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

The Bottom Line: You Deserve Justice

The tragedy on I-35 is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by commercial trucks on Fort Worth’s highways. When trucking companies prioritize profit over safety, innocent people pay the price.

You deserve justice. You deserve compensation for your injuries, your medical bills, your lost wages, and your pain and suffering. You deserve an attorney who will fight for you every step of the way.

At Attorney911, we have the experience, the resources, and the determination to hold trucking companies accountable. We’ve recovered millions for accident victims, and we’re ready to fight for you.

Don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every hour. Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to help you take the first step toward justice.

Additional Resources

Learn more about trucking accidents and your rights:

• The Victim’s Guide to 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries
• Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Semi Truck?
• The Definitive Guide To Commercial Truck Accidents
• Truck Tire Blowouts and When You Need a Lawyer
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If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Fort Worth, don’t wait. Call us now:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📞 (713) 528-9070
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 https://attorney911.com

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

We’re available 24/7 to help you take the first step toward justice. Your consultation is free, and you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Don’t let the trucking company win. Call Attorney911 now.