I-35 South of Dallas Zoo Blocked by Overturned 18-Wheeler: What Carrollton Drivers Need to Know

Every year, thousands of 18-wheeler accidents occur on Texas highways. But when a massive truck overturns on I-35 near the Dallas Zoo—one of the busiest corridors in North Texas—it creates a legal emergency that affects families across Carrollton, Carrollton County, and beyond. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident, 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 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. This incident on I-35 is more than just a traffic delay—it’s a warning about the dangers that exist on Carrollton’s highways every day.

The Incident: What Happened on I-35 Near the Dallas Zoo

In the early morning hours of February 19, 2026, nearly all southbound lanes of I-35 near the Dallas Zoo were blocked by an overturned 18-wheeler. As of 8:15 p.m. that evening, only one southbound lane was open, and traffic was moving past very slowly. TxDOT traffic cameras showed traffic backed up for some distance behind the crash.

What we know for certain:
– Location: I-35 southbound near the Dallas Zoo (Zang Boulevard area)
– Time: Approximately 2:15 a.m. on February 19, 2026
– Impact: Nearly all southbound lanes blocked for hours
– Traffic conditions: Significant backup visible on TxDOT cameras
– Current status: One lane open as of 8:15 p.m., but no estimate for full resolution

What remains unknown—and why it matters for your case:
– The cause of the turnover is still under investigation
– No official determination of fault has been released
– The trucking company involved has not been publicly identified
– The driver’s hours of service and compliance with FMCSA regulations are unknown
– Whether mechanical failure or cargo issues contributed to the crash

This lack of information is exactly why immediate legal action is critical. Trucking companies and their insurers begin building their defense within hours of an accident. If you’ve been involved in a similar incident, you need to act just as quickly to protect your rights.

Why This Type of Accident Is So Dangerous

Rollover accidents like this one are among the most catastrophic types of 18-wheeler crashes. When an 80,000-pound truck overturns, it creates multiple hazards:

1. Multi-Vehicle Collisions: The overturned trailer blocks multiple lanes, creating a sudden obstacle that following vehicles may not be able to avoid. In this case, the backup visible on TxDOT cameras suggests multiple vehicles were affected.

2. Cargo Spills: Overturned trucks often spill their cargo onto the highway, creating additional hazards for other drivers. Depending on what the truck was carrying, this could include anything from consumer goods to hazardous materials.

3. Secondary Crashes: The sudden traffic backup creates a high risk of rear-end collisions as drivers approach the scene at highway speeds.

4. Underride Risks: When a trailer overturns, it can create an underride hazard where smaller vehicles can slide underneath the trailer, often with fatal consequences.

5. Emergency Response Delays: Blocked lanes prevent emergency vehicles from reaching other accidents or medical emergencies, potentially worsening outcomes for other victims.

Ralph Manginello has seen firsthand how these factors combine to create devastating injuries. “In cases like this, we often see multiple victims with catastrophic injuries—traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, and wrongful death. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests. Victims need someone protecting them just as aggressively.”

Common Causes of Rollover Accidents on I-35

While the specific cause of this I-35 rollover is still under investigation, our experience with similar cases suggests several likely possibilities:

1. Speeding on Curves

I-35 features several curves and interchanges in the Dallas area that require reduced speeds for large trucks. The interchange with I-30, just north of the Dallas Zoo, is particularly challenging for truck drivers. When drivers fail to reduce speed appropriately, centrifugal force can cause the trailer to tip.

FMCSA Regulation: 49 CFR § 392.6 – “No motor carrier shall schedule a run, nor shall any such carrier permit or require the operation of any commercial motor vehicle, between points in such period of time as would require the commercial motor vehicle to be operated at speeds in excess of those prescribed by the jurisdictions in or through which the commercial motor vehicle is being operated.”

2. Improperly Secured Cargo

When cargo isn’t properly secured or is unevenly distributed, it can shift during transit, changing the truck’s center of gravity. This is especially dangerous on curves or during sudden maneuvers.

FMCSA Regulation: 49 CFR § 393.100 – “Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent shifting that would affect the vehicle’s stability or maneuverability.”

In a landmark case, Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (2021), a Texas jury awarded $730 million when an oversize load caused a fatal accident. The case demonstrated how cargo securement failures can lead to catastrophic outcomes.

3. Driver Fatigue

The early morning timing of this crash (2:15 a.m.) raises concerns about driver fatigue. Truck drivers working overnight shifts are at higher risk of fatigue-related accidents.

FMCSA Hours of Service Regulations:
– 49 CFR § 395.3 – Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
– 49 CFR § 395.1 – Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
– 49 CFR § 395.3(a)(3) – 30-minute break required after 8 cumulative hours of driving

Fatigue was a factor in the $150 million Werner Enterprises settlement (2022), where two children were killed on I-30. The case involved clear hours of service violations.

4. Mechanical Failures

Brake failures, tire blowouts, or steering system malfunctions can cause drivers to lose control, especially on curves or when sudden maneuvers are required.

FMCSA Regulation: 49 CFR § 396.3 – “Every motor carrier and intermodal equipment provider must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all motor vehicles subject to its control.”

Brake system violations are among the most common FMCSA out-of-service violations, accounting for 29% of large truck crashes according to federal data.

5. Distracted Driving

With the proliferation of in-cab technology, distracted driving has become a major concern in the trucking industry. Cell phone use, GPS devices, and dispatch communications can all divert a driver’s attention at critical moments.

FMCSA Regulation: 49 CFR § 392.82 – Prohibits hand-held mobile phone use while driving

6. Adverse Weather Conditions

While no specific weather conditions were mentioned in this incident, Texas highways frequently experience sudden rain, fog, or high winds that can contribute to rollover accidents.

How This Incident Affects Carrollton and Carrollton County Drivers

While this specific accident occurred on I-35 near the Dallas Zoo, the same dangers exist on Carrollton’s highways every day. The I-35 corridor connects major distribution hubs, manufacturing centers, and retail operations throughout North Texas. Carrollton drivers share the road with these trucks on:

• I-35E – The primary north-south corridor through Carrollton
• President George Bush Turnpike (SH 190) – Major east-west route with heavy truck traffic
• Dallas North Tollway – Connects to major business centers
• I-635 (LBJ Freeway) – Major interchange with I-35E
• Local routes serving distribution centers and manufacturing facilities

The trucking corridors serving Carrollton and Carrollton County see some of the highest truck traffic volumes in Texas. The same factors that caused this I-35 rollover—fatigue, speed, mechanical issues, cargo problems—exist on our local highways every day.

Ralph Manginello notes, “Carrollton sits at the crossroads of major freight movement in North Texas. We know these corridors, the distribution centers, the truck stops where drivers may be violating hours of service regulations. This local knowledge, combined with our understanding of FMCSA regulations, gives us an advantage in building your case.”

The Legal Implications: Who Can Be Held Accountable?

In trucking accident cases, multiple parties may be liable for your injuries. Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, 18-wheeler crashes often involve a web of companies and individuals who all contributed to the dangerous conditions.

Potential Liable Parties in This Incident:

1. The Truck Driver
   – Possible violations: speeding, fatigue, distracted driving, failure to conduct proper inspections
   – Evidence needed: ELD records, cell phone records, driving history, training records

2. The Trucking Company/Motor Carrier
   – Possible violations: negligent hiring, inadequate training, pressure to violate HOS, poor maintenance
   – Evidence needed: Driver Qualification File, maintenance records, dispatch records, safety policies

3. The Cargo Owner/Shipper
   – Possible violations: improper loading instructions, failure to disclose hazardous cargo, pressure to expedite
   – Evidence needed: shipping contracts, loading instructions, weight records

4. The Cargo Loading Company
   – Possible violations: improper securement, unbalanced loading, failure to follow FMCSA cargo rules
   – Evidence needed: loading procedures, securement documentation, training records

5. Truck or Trailer Manufacturer
   – Possible violations: design defects, manufacturing defects, failure to warn
   – Evidence needed: recall history, similar complaints, expert analysis of failed components

6. Parts Manufacturer
   – Possible violations: defective brakes, tires, steering components
   – Evidence needed: failed component analysis, recall history, manufacturing records

7. Maintenance Company
   – Possible violations: negligent repairs, failure to identify safety issues, use of substandard parts
   – Evidence needed: maintenance records, work orders, mechanic qualifications

8. Freight Broker
   – Possible violations: negligent carrier selection, failure to verify safety records
   – Evidence needed: broker-carrier agreements, carrier selection criteria

In the $462 million St. Louis underride case (2024), multiple parties were held accountable, including the trucking company, trailer manufacturer, and maintenance provider. This demonstrates how comprehensive investigations can identify all responsible parties.

The Critical 48-Hour Window: Preserving Evidence

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

Critical Evidence That Can Disappear:

At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained. This formal legal notice demands that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. Destroying evidence after receiving our letter can result in:

• Adverse inference instructions (jury told to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable)
• Sanctions and monetary penalties
• Default judgment in extreme cases
• Punitive damages for intentional destruction

Ralph Manginello emphasizes, “Right now, the trucking company involved in this I-35 rollover is building their defense. Their rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests. If you’ve been involved in a similar accident, you need an attorney who moves just as fast.”

What to Do If You’re Involved in a Similar Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Carrollton or anywhere in Texas, follow these critical steps:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
   – Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents
   – Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days
   – Carrollton’s medical centers can identify injuries that will become critical evidence

2. Document the Scene
   – Take photos of all vehicle damage, including the truck and trailer
   – Photograph the accident scene from multiple angles
   – Capture road conditions, skid marks, traffic signals, and weather conditions
   – Get the truck’s DOT number, license plate, and company information
   – Collect witness contact information

3. Report the Accident
   – Call 911 and file a police report
   – Request that the officer document all visible damage and injuries
   – Get the officer’s name and badge number

4. Preserve Evidence
   – Do not repair or dispose of your vehicle
   – Keep all damaged property
   – Save all medical records and bills
   – Document your injuries with photos as they heal

5. Contact an Attorney Immediately
   – Do not give recorded statements to any insurance company
   – Do not sign any documents without legal review
   – Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation

Ralph Manginello warns, “The insurance adjuster who calls you works for the trucking company, not for you. Their job is to minimize your claim. Anything you say will be used against you. We have a former insurance defense attorney on our team who knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests.”

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Trucking Accidents

Due to the massive size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles, trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries. The physics of these collisions make severe injuries the norm, not the exception.

Size and Weight Disparity:
– Fully loaded 18-wheeler: Up to 80,000 lbs
– Average passenger car: 3,500-4,000 lbs
– The truck is 20-25 TIMES heavier than your car

Impact Force:
– Force = Mass × Acceleration
– An 80,000 lb truck at 65 mph carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a car
– This energy transfers to the smaller vehicle in a crash

Stopping Distance:
– 18-wheeler at 65 mph needs ~525 feet to stop (nearly two football fields)
– Car at 65 mph needs ~300 feet to stop
– This 40% longer stopping distance means trucks cannot avoid obstacles as quickly

Common Catastrophic Injuries in Trucking Accidents:

In the $160 million Alabama rollover case (2024), the victim was left quadriplegic. These are the types of life-altering injuries we see in trucking accidents, and they require experienced legal representation to secure adequate compensation.

The Trucking Industry’s Safety Record: A Pattern of Negligence

The trucking industry has seen unprecedented jury verdicts in recent years, with nuclear verdicts—those over $10 million—becoming increasingly common. The average trucking verdict now exceeds $27.5 million.

Recent Major Trucking Verdicts:
– $730 million – Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (2021, Texas)
– $462 million – St. Louis underride case (2024, Missouri)
– $160 million – Street v. Daimler (2024, Alabama)
– $150 million – Werner Enterprises settlement (2022, Texas)
– $141.5 million – Florida carrier case (2023)

These verdicts reflect juries’ growing frustration with trucking companies that prioritize profits over safety. Common patterns we see in these cases:

1. Hours of Service Violations – Driving beyond legal limits
2. False Log Entries – Falsifying ELD or paper log records
3. Failure to Maintain Brakes – Worn brakes, improper adjustment
4. Cargo Securement Failures – Inadequate tiedowns, shifting loads
5. Unqualified Drivers – Operating without valid CDL or medical certificate
6. Drug/Alcohol Violations – Operating under influence
7. Mobile Phone Use – Texting, hand-held phone while driving
8. Failure to Inspect – No pre-trip inspection, ignored defects
9. Improper Lighting – Non-functioning lights, missing reflectors
10. Negligent Hiring – No background check, incomplete DQ file

The FMCSA’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) program tracks these violations. Carriers with poor CSA scores are more likely to be involved in accidents. We obtain these records in every trucking case to prove patterns of negligence.

Why Carrollton Drivers Need Specialized Legal Representation

Carrollton sits at the heart of North Texas’s freight network. Our location at the intersection of major highways and distribution corridors means we share the road with thousands of 18-wheelers every day. These trucks serve:

• Distribution centers along I-35E and President George Bush Turnpike
• Manufacturing facilities in Carrollton’s industrial zones
• Retail operations serving the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex
• Port of Houston freight moving through North Texas
• Cross-country freight traveling the I-35 NAFTA corridor

This high volume of truck traffic creates unique risks for Carrollton drivers. Local attorneys who don’t specialize in trucking cases often miss critical evidence and legal strategies that can make the difference between a fair settlement and inadequate compensation.

What Sets Attorney911 Apart:

1. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience
   – Ralph Manginello has been fighting trucking companies since 1998
   – Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
   – Experience in BP explosion litigation against multinational corporations

2. Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge
   – Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney
   – He knows exactly how trucking insurers evaluate, minimize, and deny claims
   – We use this insider knowledge to counter their tactics

3. Immediate Evidence Preservation
   – We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
   – Demand preservation of ECM, ELD, maintenance records
   – Secure physical evidence before repair or disposal

4. Comprehensive Investigation
   – Obtain complete Driver Qualification Files
   – Analyze ELD and ECM data
   – Review maintenance and inspection records
   – Investigate cargo loading and securement
   – Examine trucking company safety history

5. Multi-Million Dollar Results
   – $5+ million – Logging brain injury settlement
   – $3.8+ million – Car accident amputation settlement
   – $2.5+ million – Truck crash recovery
   – $2+ million – Maritime back injury settlement
   – Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

6. Local Knowledge of Carrollton’s Trucking Corridors
   – I-35E and its interchanges
   – President George Bush Turnpike (SH 190)
   – Dallas North Tollway
   – I-635 (LBJ Freeway)
   – Local routes serving distribution centers

Ralph Manginello explains, “We know Carrollton’s highways, the distribution centers, the truck stops where drivers may be violating hours of service regulations. This local knowledge, combined with our understanding of FMCSA regulations, gives us an advantage in building your case.”

The Legal Process: What to Expect

If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident, understanding the legal process can help you make informed decisions about your case.

Step 1: Free Consultation

• We evaluate your case at no cost
• Explain your legal rights and options
• Answer all your questions about the process

Step 2: Case Acceptance

• If we believe we can help, we’ll offer to represent you
• No upfront costs – we work on contingency
• You pay nothing unless we win your case

Step 3: Investigation

• Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
• Obtain police reports and accident scene photos
• Gather medical records and bills
• Interview witnesses
• Obtain trucking company records (ELD, ECM, maintenance, etc.)
• Consult with accident reconstruction experts

Step 4: Medical Care Facilitation

• Connect you with appropriate medical providers
• Help arrange treatment even if you don’t have insurance
• Document all injuries and treatment

Step 5: Demand Letter

• Send a comprehensive demand to the insurance company
• Calculate all damages: medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering
• Demand full and fair compensation

Step 6: Negotiation

• Engage in settlement discussions
• Counter lowball offers
• Prepare for trial if necessary

Step 7: Litigation (if needed)

• File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires
• Conduct discovery (depositions, document requests)
• Prepare case for trial

Step 8: Resolution

• Negotiate settlement from position of strength
• Take case to trial if fair settlement cannot be reached
• Distribute settlement funds

Ralph Manginello notes, “We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This creates leverage in settlement negotiations and often leads to better results faster. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court—and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.”

Common Questions About Trucking Accident Cases

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Carrollton, take these steps immediately if you’re able:
– Call 911 and report the accident
– Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
– Document the scene with photos and video if possible
– Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
– Collect witness contact information
– Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
– Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately

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

YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Carrollton’s medical centers can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

What information should I collect at the truck accident scene?

Document everything possible:
– Truck and trailer license plates
– DOT number (on truck door)
– Trucking company name and logo
– Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
– Photos of all vehicle damage
– Photos of the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks
– Photos of your injuries
– Witness names and phone numbers
– Responding officer’s name and badge number
– Weather and road conditions

Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

NO. Do not give any recorded statements. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests.

How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney?

IMMEDIATELY – within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence in trucking cases (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send preservation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident?

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

We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?

Usually YES. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for:
– Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified drivers)
– Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
– Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
– Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)

What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs—the data tells the true story.

What is an owner-operator and does that affect my case?

An owner-operator is a driver who owns their own truck and contracts with trucking companies. This can complicate liability, but both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.

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

FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain the carrier’s:
– CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
– Inspection history and out-of-service rates
– Crash history
– Safety rating

A poor safety record can prove the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on the road.

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

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data—similar to airplane black boxes. This data can show:
– Speed before and during the crash
– Brake application timing
– Engine RPM and throttle position
– Whether cruise control was engaged
– GPS location

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are federally mandated devices that record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued. Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents.

How long does the trucking company keep black box and ELD data?

ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention for ELD data. This is why we send spoliation letters immediately—once we notify them of litigation, they must preserve everything.

What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We pursue:
– ECM/Black box data
– ELD records
– Driver Qualification File
– Maintenance records
– Inspection reports
– Dispatch logs
– Drug and alcohol test results
– Training records
– Cell phone records
– Insurance policies
– The physical truck and trailer

Can the trucking company destroy evidence?

Once they’re on notice of potential litigation, destroying evidence is spoliation—a serious legal violation. Courts can:
– Instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable
– Impose monetary sanctions
– Enter default judgment in extreme cases
– Award punitive damages

What are hours of service regulations and how do violations cause accidents?

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:
– Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 hours off
– Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
– 30-minute break required after 8 hours driving
– 60/70 hour weekly limits

Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. Drivers who violate these rules are too tired to react safely.

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find:
– Hours of service violations (driving too long)
– False log entries (lying about driving time)
– Brake system deficiencies
– Cargo securement failures
– Drug and alcohol violations
– Unqualified drivers (no valid CDL or medical certificate)
– Failure to inspect vehicles

What is a Driver Qualification File and why does it matter?

FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a file for every driver containing:
– Employment application
– Driving record check
– Previous employer verification
– Medical certification
– Drug test results
– Training documentation

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

How do pre-trip inspections relate to my accident case?

Drivers must inspect their trucks before every trip. If they failed to conduct inspections or ignored known defects (bad brakes, worn tires, lighting problems), both the driver and company may be liable for negligence.

What injuries are common in 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?

Case values depend on many factors:
– Severity of injuries
– Medical expenses (past and future)
– Lost income and earning capacity
– Pain and suffering
– Degree of defendant’s negligence
– Insurance coverage available

Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents. We’ve seen verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions.

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

Texas allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover:
– Lost future income
– Loss of companionship and guidance
– Mental anguish
– Funeral expenses
– Punitive damages if gross negligence

Time limits apply—contact us immediately to protect your rights.

How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Texas?

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?

Timelines vary:
– Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
– Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
– Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court—and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys. We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way if necessary.

Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?

NO. We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

The Attorney911 Advantage: Why Choose Us for Your Carrollton Trucking Case

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a team with the experience, resources, and determination to fight for maximum compensation. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:

1. Ralph Manginello’s 25+ Years of Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. His experience includes:
– Securing multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts
– Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
– Involvement in BP Texas City explosion litigation against multinational corporations
– Handling cases against major trucking companies like Walmart, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS

2. Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for a national defense firm. He knows:
– How insurance companies value claims
– How adjusters are trained to minimize payouts
– What makes them settle
– How they deny claims
– The claims valuation software they use

Ralph Manginello explains, “Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who watched adjusters minimize claims. He saw how they train their people to lowball victims. Now he exposes those tactics and uses his insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation.”

3. Immediate Evidence Preservation

We act fast to preserve critical evidence:
– Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
– Demand immediate download of ELD and black box data
– Subpoena cell phone records
– Obtain police crash reports and 911 call recordings
– Canvass accident scene for security camera footage
– Photograph all damage before vehicles are repaired
– Interview witnesses before memories fade
– Hire accident reconstruction experts

4. Comprehensive Investigation

We leave no stone unturned in building your case:
– Obtain complete Driver Qualification Files
– Analyze ELD and ECM data
– Review maintenance and inspection records
– Investigate cargo loading and securement
– Examine trucking company safety history
– Consult with medical experts
– Calculate future care needs
– Determine lost earning capacity

5. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our track record speaks for itself:
– $5+ million – Logging brain injury settlement
– $3.8+ million – Car accident amputation settlement
– $2.5+ million – Truck crash recovery
– $2+ million – Maritime back injury settlement
– Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases
– $10 million lawsuit filed in University of Houston hazing case (active)

6. Local Knowledge of Carrollton’s Trucking Corridors

We know Carrollton’s highways and the unique risks they present:
– I-35E and its interchanges
– President George Bush Turnpike (SH 190)
– Dallas North Tollway
– I-635 (LBJ Freeway)
– Local routes serving distribution centers
– Truck stops where drivers may violate hours of service

7. Bilingual Services for Carrollton’s Hispanic Community

Carrollton has a significant Hispanic population, and many truck drivers are Spanish-speaking. Our team includes:
– Lupe Peña, fluent in Spanish
– Bilingual staff including Zulema
– Direct communication without interpreters

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

8. Client Satisfaction

Our clients consistently praise our dedication and results:

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

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

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

The Time to Act Is Now

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Carrollton or anywhere in Texas, the time to act is now. Evidence is disappearing every hour. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests. You need someone protecting you just as aggressively.

At Attorney911, we offer:
– Free consultations – No cost to evaluate your case
– No upfront fees – You pay nothing unless we win
– 24/7 availability – We answer calls immediately
– Immediate evidence preservation – We send spoliation letters within hours
– Insider knowledge – Our former insurance defense attorney knows their tactics
– Local expertise – We know Carrollton’s trucking corridors
– Bilingual services – Hablamos Español

Don’t let the trucking company take advantage of you. Don’t let critical evidence disappear. Don’t settle for less than you deserve.

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

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Learn more in our video guides:
– The Victim’s Guide to 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries
– Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Semi Truck?
– Truck Tire Blowouts and When You Need a Lawyer
– The Definitive Guide To Commercial Truck Accidents
– What to Do After a Car Accident?