Overturned 18-Wheeler on I-35 in Dallas: What Happened and What Dallas Drivers Need to Know

Every year, thousands of Dallas drivers share the road with 18-wheelers on I-35. This critical north-south corridor connects Texas to Oklahoma and beyond, carrying massive freight volumes daily. But when an 80,000-pound truck loses control, the consequences can be catastrophic.

On February 19, 2026, at approximately 8:30 p.m., a southbound 18-wheeler overturned on I-35 at Illinois Avenue in Dallas, blocking all lanes of traffic and leaking fuel. The Dallas County Sheriff’s Department and Dallas Fire Department’s Hazmat team responded to manage the fuel spill. While the driver fortunately escaped injury, the incident created significant traffic disruptions, with authorities diverting traffic to 12th Street.

This wasn’t just another traffic delay. It was a near-miss catastrophe that could have resulted in multiple fatalities. At Attorney911, we’ve seen what happens when these accidents aren’t just “near misses” – traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, and wrongful deaths that change families forever.

What Exactly Happened on I-35?

Let’s break down the incident as reported:

• Location: Southbound Interstate 35 at Illinois Avenue, Dallas, Texas
• Time: 8:30 p.m. on February 19, 2026
• Vehicle: An 18-wheeler (commercial tractor-trailer)
• Incident: The truck overturned, blocking all southbound lanes
• Hazards: The trailer was leaking fuel, requiring Hazmat response
• Injuries: The driver was uninjured
• Traffic Impact: Significant disruptions; traffic diverted to 12th Street
• Response: Dallas County Sheriff’s Department and Dallas Fire Department Hazmat team

While the driver walked away unharmed, the potential for disaster was enormous. An overturned 18-wheeler blocking all lanes of a major interstate at night creates multiple collision risks:

1. Secondary Collisions: Following vehicles may not see the overturned truck in time, especially at night or in poor visibility conditions
2. Fuel Spills: Leaking fuel creates fire and explosion hazards
3. Cargo Spills: If the trailer was carrying cargo, debris could create additional obstacles
4. Traffic Diversion Risks: Diverted traffic onto surface streets can create congestion and new accident risks

Why Do 18-Wheelers Overturn? The Root Causes

Rollover accidents like this one are among the most dangerous trucking incidents. Understanding why they happen is crucial for both prevention and legal accountability.

1. Speeding on Curves or Ramps

I-35 in Dallas has several curves and exit ramps where speed is a critical factor. The physics are simple: when a truck takes a curve too fast, centrifugal force can overcome the vehicle’s stability.

The Science Behind Rollover Accidents:
– 18-wheelers have a high center of gravity
– Fully loaded trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds
– At high speeds, the force pushing outward on curves can exceed the tires’ grip
– The result: the trailer tips and the entire vehicle rolls over

Dallas-Specific Risk Areas:
– The I-35/I-30 interchange
– The I-35/US-67 interchange
– Exit ramps throughout the corridor
– Construction zones with temporary lane shifts

2. Improperly Secured or Distributed Cargo

Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) require cargo to be properly secured to prevent shifting. When cargo shifts during transit:

• The truck’s center of gravity changes suddenly
• The trailer becomes unstable
• The driver may overcorrect, causing a rollover

Common Cargo Securement Failures:
– Insufficient tiedowns
– Improper load distribution
– Failure to use blocking or bracing
– Liquid cargo “slosh” in tankers
– Loose tarps allowing cargo shift

3. Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) strictly regulates how long truck drivers can operate. These Hours of Service (HOS) regulations (49 CFR § 395) exist for a reason: fatigued drivers have slower reaction times and impaired judgment.

FMCSA Hours of Service Rules:
– 11-Hour Driving Limit: Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
– 14-Hour On-Duty Window: Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
– 30-Minute Break: Required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
– 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
– 34-Hour Restart: Can reset weekly clock with 34 consecutive hours off duty

Why This Matters for the I-35 Incident:
If the driver had been on the road for 10+ hours without proper breaks, fatigue could have contributed to the rollover. Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) record this data – which is why we send preservation letters immediately in trucking cases.

4. Mechanical Failures

Poorly maintained trucks are rolling hazards. Common mechanical issues that cause rollovers:

• Brake Failures: Worn or improperly adjusted brakes (49 CFR § 393.40-55)
• Tire Blowouts: Underinflated or worn tires (49 CFR § 393.75)
• Steering System Failures: Worn components or hydraulic leaks
• Suspension Problems: Broken or worn suspension parts

Maintenance Record Requirements:
FMCSA requires systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of all commercial vehicles (49 CFR § 396.3). Drivers must conduct pre-trip inspections (49 CFR § 396.13) and report defects (49 CFR § 396.11).

5. Driver Error and Inexperience

Operating an 18-wheeler requires specialized skills. Common driver errors include:

• Overcorrection: Jerking the wheel when drifting or after a tire blowout
• Improper Braking: Using the trailer brake instead of the tractor brake
• Misjudging Speed: Taking curves or ramps too fast
• Distracted Driving: Cell phone use, dispatch communications, GPS (49 CFR § 392.82)
• Impaired Driving: Drugs, alcohol, or prescription medication (49 CFR § 392.4-5)

6. Road and Weather Conditions

Dallas roads present unique challenges:

• Construction Zones: Temporary lane shifts and uneven surfaces
• Potholes: Can cause tire blowouts or loss of control
• Wet Roads: Reduced traction increases rollover risk
• High Winds: Can affect high-profile trailers

The weather report for Denison (near Dallas) on February 19, 2026, showed:
– 64°F and sunny at the time of the accident
– Fire risk was high that day
– No significant precipitation reported

While weather doesn’t appear to have been a factor in this incident, it’s worth noting that Dallas drivers face all these conditions throughout the year.

The Legal Landscape: Who’s Responsible When an 18-Wheeler Overturns?

When an 18-wheeler overturns, multiple parties may share liability. At Attorney911, we investigate every potential defendant to maximize our clients’ recovery.

1. The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:
– Speeding or reckless driving
– Distracted driving (cell phone use, texting)
– Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
– Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
– Violation of traffic laws
– Improper cargo securement

Key Evidence:
– Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data
– Driver Qualification File
– Drug and alcohol test results
– Cell phone records
– Training records

2. The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

Trucking companies are often the primary defendants because they have the deepest pockets and the most responsibility for safety.

Vicarious Liability:
Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment.

Direct Negligence:
Trucking companies can also be directly liable for:
– Negligent Hiring: Failing to check the driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
– Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training on rollover prevention, cargo securement, or hours of service compliance
– Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance, ELD compliance, or safety violations
– Negligent Maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep leading to mechanical failures
– Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate HOS regulations

FMCSA Requirements:
– Maintain Driver Qualification Files (49 CFR § 391.51)
– Conduct systematic vehicle inspections and maintenance (49 CFR § 396.3)
– Monitor driver compliance with HOS regulations (49 CFR § 395)
– Maintain accident registers (49 CFR § 390.15)

3. Cargo Owner / Shipper

The company that owns the cargo may be liable for:
– Providing improper loading instructions
– Failing to disclose hazardous cargo
– Requiring overweight loading
– Pressuring the carrier to expedite beyond safe limits

4. Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:
– Improper cargo securement (49 CFR § 393.100-136)
– Unbalanced load distribution
– Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
– Failure to train loaders on securement requirements

5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

Manufacturers may be liable under product liability law for:
– Design defects (stability control systems, brake design)
– Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
– Failure to warn of known dangers

6. Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufacture specific parts may be liable for:
– Defective brakes or brake components
– Defective tires causing blowouts
– Defective steering mechanisms
– Defective lighting components

7. Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance providers may be liable for:
– Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
– Failure to identify critical safety issues
– Improper brake adjustments
– Using substandard or wrong parts

8. Freight Broker

Freight 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

9. Government Entity

In limited circumstances, government entities may be liable for:
– Dangerous road design contributing to the accident
– Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris)
– Inadequate signage for known hazards
– Improper work zone setup

Special Considerations:
– Sovereign immunity limits government liability
– Strict notice requirements and short deadlines apply
– Must prove actual notice of dangerous condition

The Evidence That Wins Trucking Cases

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

Electronic Data: The Truck’s “Black Box”

Commercial trucks have sophisticated electronic systems that record operational data – similar to an airplane’s black box.

Types of Electronic Evidence:

Critical Data Points:
– Speed Before Crash: Proves speeding or excessive speed for conditions
– Brake Application: Shows when and how hard brakes were applied
– Throttle Position: Reveals if driver was accelerating or coasting
– Following Distance: Calculated from speed and deceleration data
– Hours of Service: Proves fatigue and HOS violations
– GPS Location: Confirms route and timing
– Fault Codes: May reveal known mechanical issues driver ignored

Why This Data Wins Cases:
ECM/ELD data is objective and tamper-resistant. It directly contradicts driver claims of “I wasn’t speeding” or “I hit my brakes immediately.” This data has led to multi-million dollar verdicts in trucking cases.

The 48-Hour Rule:
At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained. This legal notice demands preservation of all evidence and puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.

Physical Evidence

• The Truck and Trailer: Must be preserved for inspection before repair
• Failed Components: Tires, brakes, steering parts for defect analysis
• Cargo and Securement Devices: To prove securement failures
• Accident Scene: Skid marks, debris patterns, road conditions

Documentary Evidence

Real Cases Show What’s Possible: Landmark Trucking Verdicts

While every case is unique, landmark verdicts demonstrate what juries award when trucking companies are held fully accountable.

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

What Happened:
A Navy propeller being transported as an oversize load fell from a Landstar Ranger trailer, killing a 73-year-old woman in her vehicle.

Key Factors:
– The load was improperly secured
– The trucking company failed to follow proper oversize load procedures
– The jury awarded $480 million in compensatory damages and $250 million in punitive damages

Why It Matters for Dallas Cases:
This case shows that Texas juries will hold trucking companies accountable for gross negligence in cargo securement – a major factor in rollover accidents.

$462 Million Verdict – St. Louis Underride Case (Missouri, 2024)

What Happened:
Two men were decapitated when their vehicle slid under a trailer in an underride collision.

Key Factors:
– The trailer lacked proper underride guards
– The manufacturer was found liable for defective design
– The verdict included $462 million in damages

Why It Matters for Dallas Cases:
While this was an underride case, it demonstrates that juries will award massive verdicts when trucking equipment is defective or improperly maintained – factors that also contribute to rollovers.

$160 Million Verdict – Street v. Daimler (Alabama, 2024)

What Happened:
A rollover accident left the driver quadriplegic.

Key Factors:
– The truck’s stability control system failed
– The manufacturer was found liable for defective design
– The jury awarded $75 million in compensatory damages and $75 million in punitive damages

Why It Matters for Dallas Cases:
This case shows that truck manufacturers can be held accountable for defective safety systems that contribute to rollovers.

$150 Million Settlement – Werner Enterprises (Texas, 2022)

What Happened:
Two children were killed on I-30 when a Werner Enterprises truck crossed the median.

Key Factors:
– The driver had a history of safety violations
– The trucking company failed to properly monitor the driver
– This was the largest 18-wheeler settlement in U.S. history at the time

Why It Matters for Dallas Cases:
This case demonstrates that Texas juries and trucking companies will pay massive sums when companies fail to properly supervise dangerous drivers.

The Dallas Trucking Corridor: Why I-35 Is So Dangerous

I-35 is one of the most important – and dangerous – trucking corridors in Texas. Understanding the unique risks helps Dallas drivers stay safe and helps attorneys build stronger cases.

I-35: The NAFTA Corridor

I-35 is the primary north-south freight corridor in the central United States, connecting:
– Laredo (the busiest border crossing in the Western Hemisphere)
– San Antonio
– Austin
– Dallas-Fort Worth
– Oklahoma City
– Kansas City
– Minneapolis

This “NAFTA Corridor” carries massive volumes of international freight, making it one of the busiest trucking routes in the country.

Dallas-Specific Risks

1. High Truck Volume:
   – I-35 carries more truck traffic than almost any other Texas highway
   – The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex is a major distribution hub
   – Trucks mix with dense commuter traffic

2. Complex Interchanges:
   – I-35 intersects with I-30, I-20, and multiple other highways
   – These interchanges create weaving traffic patterns
   – Exit and entrance ramps are particularly dangerous for trucks

3. Construction Zones:
   – Dallas is constantly under construction
   – Temporary lane shifts and uneven surfaces increase rollover risk
   – Construction zones are high-risk areas for all types of accidents

4. Urban Congestion:
   – Trucks must navigate stop-and-go traffic
   – Sudden stops increase rear-end collision risk
   – Congestion creates frustration and aggressive driving

5. Nighttime Driving:
   – Many trucks operate at night to avoid congestion
   – Reduced visibility increases accident risk
   – Fatigue is more common during nighttime hours

Common Accident Locations on I-35 in Dallas

Based on our experience handling Dallas trucking cases, these are high-risk areas:

• I-35/I-30 Interchange: Complex weaving patterns and heavy truck traffic
• I-35/US-67 Interchange: Multiple exit and entrance ramps in close proximity
• Downtown Dallas Stretch: Dense traffic mixing with trucks
• Illinois Avenue Area: Where this recent rollover occurred
• Construction Zones: Throughout the corridor, especially near downtown
• Exit Ramps: Particularly dangerous for trucks taking curves too fast

What Dallas Drivers Should Do If They’re in a Trucking Accident

If you’re involved in a trucking accident on I-35 or anywhere in Dallas, follow these steps:

1. Call 911 Immediately

• Report the accident and request police and emergency medical services
• Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out – adrenaline masks pain

2. Document the Scene

• Take photos of all vehicle damage
• Photograph the accident scene from multiple angles
• Capture road conditions, skid marks, and debris patterns
• Get photos of the truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company name
• Document any visible injuries

3. Collect Information

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

4. Seek Medical Attention

• Go to the emergency room or urgent care immediately
• Follow up with your primary care physician
• Document all injuries and treatment
• Keep all medical records and bills

5. Do NOT Give Statements

• Do not give recorded statements to any insurance company
• Do not discuss fault or apologize
• Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you

6. Contact an 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney Immediately

• Critical evidence disappears quickly
• We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
• The sooner we start investigating, the stronger your case

Why This I-35 Rollover Should Concern Every Dallas Driver

While this particular incident fortunately didn’t result in injuries, it highlights several critical safety issues:

1. The Thin Margin of Error

An 18-wheeler rollover on a major interstate at night is a recipe for disaster. The only reason this incident didn’t result in multiple fatalities is luck – the right combination of timing, traffic conditions, and driver reactions.

2. The Fuel Spill Hazard

The reported fuel leak created a significant fire and explosion risk. Fuel spills from overturned trucks have caused catastrophic fires in other incidents.

3. The Traffic Disruption Cost

When an 18-wheeler blocks all lanes of I-35, the economic impact is enormous:
– Thousands of commuters delayed
– Emergency response resources tied up
– Businesses affected by delayed shipments
– Increased risk of secondary accidents from diverted traffic

4. The Regulatory Compliance Questions

Every rollover accident raises critical questions about regulatory compliance:
– Was the driver properly trained on rollover prevention?
– Was the cargo properly secured?
– Were the brakes and tires in good condition?
– Was the driver complying with hours of service regulations?
– Was the trucking company properly monitoring the driver?

How Attorney911 Fights for Trucking Accident Victims

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes.

Our Unique Advantages

1. Insurance Defense Experience:
   – 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 accident victims, not against them

2. Immediate Evidence Preservation:
   – We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
   – We demand preservation of ECM, ELD, and maintenance records
   – We secure physical evidence before it’s repaired or destroyed

3. Deep FMCSA Expertise:
   – We understand every regulation that applies to commercial trucks
   – We know how to prove violations that establish negligence
   – We use regulatory violations to build stronger cases

4. Multi-Million Dollar Track Record:
   – We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims
   – Our results include multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts
   – We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial

5. Federal Court Access:
   – Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
   – We can handle interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court

Our Investigation Process

When we take a trucking accident case, we conduct a comprehensive investigation:

1. Immediate Response (0-72 Hours):
   – Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
   – Deploy accident reconstruction experts if needed
   – Obtain police crash reports
   – Photograph client injuries and vehicle damage
   – Identify all potentially liable parties

2. Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30):
   – Subpoena ECM/black box data downloads
   – Request driver’s paper log books (backup documentation)
   – Obtain complete Driver Qualification File
   – Request all truck maintenance and inspection records
   – Obtain carrier’s CSA safety scores and inspection history
   – Order driver’s complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
   – Subpoena driver’s cell phone records
   – Obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules

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

4. Litigation Strategy:
   – File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires
   – Pursue aggressive discovery against all liable parties
   – Depose truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, maintenance personnel
   – Build case for trial while negotiating settlement

The Human Cost of Trucking Accidents

While this I-35 rollover didn’t result in injuries, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating human cost when these accidents aren’t just “near misses.”

Common Catastrophic Injuries

1. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI):
   – Can range from mild concussions to severe, permanent brain damage
   – Symptoms may include memory loss, personality changes, cognitive impairment
   – Lifetime care costs can exceed $3 million

2. Spinal Cord Injury:
   – Can result in paraplegia or quadriplegia
   – Requires lifelong medical care and home modifications
   – Lifetime costs can exceed $5 million

3. Amputations:
   – Often required when limbs are crushed or severely burned
   – Requires prosthetics and extensive rehabilitation
   – Lifetime costs can exceed $2 million

4. Severe Burns:
   – Common in fuel spill accidents
   – Requires multiple skin graft surgeries
   – Causes permanent scarring and disfigurement

5. Internal Organ Damage:
   – Liver, spleen, kidney injuries
   – Internal bleeding can be life-threatening
   – May require organ removal or transplant

6. Wrongful Death:
   – When trucking accidents kill, families can pursue wrongful death claims
   – Damages include lost income, loss of companionship, funeral expenses

The Emotional Toll

Beyond physical injuries, trucking accidents cause significant emotional trauma:
– Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
– Depression and anxiety
– Loss of enjoyment of life
– Relationship strain and divorce
– Career limitations or total disability

What’s Next for the I-35 Rollover Investigation

While this incident didn’t result in injuries, authorities will likely investigate several key questions:

1. Why Did the Truck Overturn?
   – Was it speed-related?
   – Was cargo improperly secured?
   – Was there a mechanical failure?
   – Was the driver fatigued or distracted?

2. Was the Fuel Leak Preventable?
   – Was there damage to the fuel tank or lines?
   – Was the truck properly maintained?
   – Was the fuel spill containment adequate?

3. Were There Regulatory Violations?
   – Did the driver comply with hours of service regulations?
   – Was the truck properly inspected and maintained?
   – Was the cargo properly secured?
   – Was the driver properly qualified?

4. Could This Have Been Worse?
   – How close was this to becoming a multi-fatality incident?
   – What factors prevented a catastrophic outcome?
   – What lessons can be learned to prevent future incidents?

The Bigger Picture: Trucking Safety in Dallas

This I-35 rollover is part of a larger pattern of trucking safety issues in Dallas:

Dallas Trucking Accident Statistics

While specific Dallas statistics aren’t provided in the knowledge base, national data gives us context:
– Over 5,100 people die in trucking accidents annually in the U.S.
– 76% of those killed are occupants of other vehicles
– Trucking accidents cause over 125,000 injuries annually
– Rollovers account for approximately 10% of trucking-related deaths

Common Trucking Safety Violations in Dallas

Based on our experience handling Dallas trucking cases, these are the most common violations we find:

1. Hours of Service Violations:
   – Drivers exceeding 11-hour driving limits
   – False log entries
   – Inadequate rest breaks

2. Maintenance Failures:
   – Worn brakes
   – Underinflated or worn tires
   – Defective lighting
   – Steering system failures

3. Cargo Securement Issues:
   – Insufficient tiedowns
   – Improper load distribution
   – Failure to use blocking or bracing

4. Driver Qualification Problems:
   – Hiring drivers with poor safety records
   – Inadequate background checks
   – Missing medical certifications

5. Distracted Driving:
   – Cell phone use while driving
   – Texting while driving
   – Dispatch communications while driving

Dallas-Specific Trucking Safety Challenges

1. The NAFTA Effect:
   – I-35 carries massive volumes of international freight
   – Some drivers may be unfamiliar with U.S. regulations
   – Language barriers can create communication issues

2. Urban Trucking:
   – Trucks must navigate dense Dallas traffic
   – Complex interchanges create accident risks
   – Mixing with commuter traffic increases danger

3. Construction Zones:
   – Dallas is constantly under construction
   – Temporary lane shifts create hazards
   – Uneven surfaces increase rollover risk

4. Nighttime Driving:
   – Many trucks operate at night to avoid congestion
   – Reduced visibility increases accident risk
   – Fatigue is more common during nighttime hours

How Dallas Can Improve Trucking Safety

While trucking companies bear primary responsibility for safety, there are steps Dallas can take to reduce risks:

Infrastructure Improvements

1. Truck-Only Lanes:
   – Separate trucks from passenger vehicles
   – Reduce weaving and lane change accidents

2. Improved Signage:
   – Clearer warnings for curves and ramps
   – Better speed limit signage for trucks

3. Runaway Truck Ramps:
   – Additional ramps on steep grades
   – Help prevent brake failure accidents

4. Better Lighting:
   – Improved lighting in high-risk areas
   – Reduce nighttime accident risks

Enforcement and Regulation

1. Increased Inspections:
   – More roadside inspections for HOS compliance
   – More thorough vehicle inspections

2. Stricter Penalties:
   – Higher fines for safety violations
   – More out-of-service orders for unsafe trucks

3. Technology Requirements:
   – Mandate stability control systems
   – Require forward collision warning systems

4. Driver Training Programs:
   – Additional training for Dallas-specific hazards
   – Rollover prevention education

Public Awareness

1. Driver Education:
   – Teach drivers how to share the road with trucks
   – Educate on truck blind spots and stopping distances

2. Safety Campaigns:
   – Public service announcements on truck safety
   – Highlight high-risk areas and behaviors

3. Reporting Systems:
   – Easy ways to report unsafe trucks
   – Quick response to safety complaints

The Legal Rights of Dallas Trucking Accident Victims

If you or a loved one is injured in a trucking accident in Dallas, you have important legal rights:

1. The Right to Compensation

Texas law allows accident victims to recover compensation for:
– Economic Damages:
– Medical expenses (past and future)
– Lost wages
– Lost earning capacity
– Property damage
– Out-of-pocket expenses

• Non-Economic Damages:
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement

• Physical impairment

• Punitive Damages:

• Available in cases of gross negligence
• Designed to punish wrongdoers and deter future misconduct

2. The Right to a Fair Legal Process

• Statute of Limitations: You have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit
• Comparative Negligence: Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system
• You can recover if you’re 50% or less at fault
• Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you’re more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover

3. The Right to Legal Representation

• You have the right to hire an attorney
• Most trucking accident attorneys work on contingency – you pay nothing unless you win
• An attorney can level the playing field against trucking companies and their insurers

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Dallas Trucking Accident Case

When you’re up against trucking companies with teams of lawyers, you need a firm with the experience and resources to fight back. Here’s why Dallas families choose Attorney911:

1. Ralph Manginello’s 25+ Years of Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s seen every trick trucking companies use to avoid responsibility – and he knows how to counter them.

2. Our Insurance Defense Advantage

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney. He spent years working for the other side, learning exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for YOU.

3. Our Multi-Million Dollar Track Record

We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims across Texas. Our results include:
– $5+ million for a logging brain injury case
– $3.8+ million for a car accident amputation case
– $2.5+ million for truck crash recoveries
– Millions for families in wrongful death cases

4. Our Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court access is critical for interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court.

5. Our Immediate Action Protocol

We don’t wait. When you call us:
– We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
– We demand preservation of all critical evidence
– We deploy experts to investigate immediately
– We handle all communications with insurance companies

6. Our Contingency Fee Structure

We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. There are no upfront costs, no hourly fees, and no financial risk to you.

7. Our Spanish-Language Services

Many Dallas trucking accident victims speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español.

What to Do Next: Your Dallas Trucking Accident Action Plan

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Dallas – or if you’re concerned about the risks on I-35 – here’s your action plan:

1. If You’ve Been in a Trucking Accident

• Call 911 immediately – report the accident and request medical assistance
• Document everything – take photos, collect witness information, get the trucking company’s details
• Seek medical attention – even if injuries seem minor, get checked out
• Do NOT give statements – don’t talk to insurance adjusters without an attorney
• Call Attorney911 – we’ll send a preservation letter immediately to protect your evidence

2. If You’re Concerned About Trucking Safety on I-35

• Be extra cautious when driving near trucks, especially at night
• Avoid truck blind spots – if you can’t see the driver’s mirrors, they can’t see you
• Give trucks extra space – they need more room to stop and maneuver
• Report unsafe trucks – if you see a truck with obvious safety issues, report it to authorities
• Share this information – help educate other Dallas drivers about trucking safety

3. If You Want to Protect Your Rights

• Know your rights – understand what compensation you may be entitled to
• Don’t sign anything – insurance companies may try to get you to sign away your rights
• Consult an attorney – most offer free consultations
• Act quickly – evidence disappears fast in trucking cases

The Bottom Line: Dallas Deserves Safer Roads

The I-35 rollover on February 19, 2026, was a wake-up call. While this incident fortunately didn’t result in injuries, it could have been catastrophic. Dallas drivers deserve better.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen what happens when trucking companies cut corners – traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, and wrongful deaths that change families forever. We’ve also seen what happens when these companies are held fully accountable – multi-million dollar verdicts that force real change.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Dallas trucking accident, you don’t have to fight alone. We’re here to help.

Attorney911 – Fighting for Dallas Trucking Accident Victims Since 1998

Because when an 18-wheeler changes your life, you need a lawyer who treats you like family.