18-Wheeler Accidents in Azle: Your Guide to Justice and Compensation

When an 18-Wheeler Changes Everything in an Instant

The impact was catastrophic. Eighty thousand pounds of steel against your sedan. One moment you’re driving to work on Azle’s highways, the next you’re waking up in a hospital bed with tubes and monitors surrounding you. The truck driver had been on the road for 14 hours straight—that’s illegal. And now you’re paying the price.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Azle, Texas, you need more than just a lawyer. You need a fighter. Someone who understands the complex web of federal trucking regulations, the aggressive tactics of commercial insurance companies, and how to hold negligent trucking companies fully accountable. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies try to minimize claims—and we use that insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation for you.

Why Azle’s Highways Are So Dangerous for Trucking Accidents

Azle sits at a critical juncture in North Texas’s transportation network. With easy access to Highway 199 (the Jacksboro Highway), Highway 114, and the nearby I-35W corridor, our community sees heavy commercial truck traffic from:

• Distribution centers along the Highway 199 corridor
• Oil and gas industry trucks serving the Barnett Shale region
• Retail and manufacturing shipments passing through to Fort Worth and beyond
• Construction equipment for Azle’s growing infrastructure projects

The mix of local commuter traffic, residential neighborhoods, and heavy commercial vehicles creates unique hazards. Azle’s roads weren’t designed for the volume of truck traffic they now carry, and many intersections and stretches of highway lack proper safety features for large vehicles.

The Most Dangerous Trucking Corridors in Azle

1. Highway 199 (Jacksboro Highway) – This primary north-south route sees heavy truck traffic, particularly near the distribution centers and industrial parks. The stretch between Azle Avenue and Eagle Mountain Lake is especially hazardous, with frequent congestion and limited shoulders.

2. Highway 114 – The east-west corridor connecting Azle to Fort Worth experiences significant truck traffic, especially during rush hours. The intersection with Highway 199 is a known hotspot for accidents.

3. Eagle Mountain Lake Bridge – Trucks crossing the bridge often struggle with weight limits and wind conditions, creating dangerous situations for smaller vehicles.

4. Azle Avenue (FM 730) – This busy commercial corridor through downtown Azle sees a mix of local traffic and delivery trucks, creating congestion and visibility issues.

5. I-35W Access Points – While not within Azle city limits, the nearby I-35W interchange at Highway 114 creates dangerous merging situations for trucks entering and exiting the highway.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents

When an 18-wheeler and a passenger vehicle collide, the physics are brutal:

• 80,000 pounds vs. 4,000 pounds – The truck is 20 times heavier than your car
• 525 feet to stop from 65 mph – That’s nearly two football fields
• 76% of fatalities are in the smaller vehicle – You’re not just at risk, you’re at extreme risk

In Azle, we’ve seen firsthand how these accidents change lives forever. The injuries are often catastrophic:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

The violent forces of a truck collision can cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull. Even with airbags, the risk of TBI is high. Symptoms may not appear immediately but can include:

• Persistent headaches
• Memory loss and confusion
• Mood swings and personality changes
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensitivity to light and sound

TBI can require lifelong care, costing millions over a lifetime. We’ve secured multi-million dollar settlements for Azle families devastated by brain injuries caused by negligent truck drivers.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

The crushing forces of an 18-wheeler accident can sever or damage the spinal cord, resulting in:

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

These injuries often require:

• Lifetime medical care
• Home modifications
• Assistive technology
• Personal care attendants
• Lost earning capacity

The lifetime cost of caring for a spinal cord injury can exceed $5 million. Our team has fought for and won these types of awards for Azle residents whose lives were forever changed by trucking accidents.

Amputations

The sheer force of a truck collision can sever limbs at the scene. In other cases, the damage is so severe that surgical amputation becomes necessary. Prosthetics can cost $50,000-$100,000 each, and they need to be replaced every few years.

Severe Burns

Truck accidents often result in fires from fuel tank ruptures or hazardous cargo spills. Burns can cause:

• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Multiple reconstructive surgeries
• Chronic pain
• Psychological trauma
• Increased risk of infections

Internal Organ Damage

The blunt force trauma from a truck collision can cause:

• Liver and spleen lacerations
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusions
• Internal bleeding
• Bowel perforations

These injuries can be life-threatening and often require emergency surgery.

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident takes a life, the emotional and financial toll on families is devastating. In Azle, we’ve represented families who lost loved ones in preventable truck crashes, fighting for compensation that includes:

• Lost future income
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Mental anguish
• Punitive damages when gross negligence is involved

The Trucking Industry’s Dirty Secrets

Trucking companies put profits over safety every day. They know the risks but cut corners anyway. Here’s what they don’t want you to know:

1. Hours of Service Violations Are Rampant

Federal regulations limit truck drivers to:

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

Yet we see violations in nearly every case we handle. Why? Because trucking companies pressure drivers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules. They know that every hour a driver is off the road costs them money.

In Azle, we’ve uncovered cases where drivers were on the road for 16+ hours straight, falsifying their electronic logs to hide the violations. When these fatigued drivers cause accidents, the trucking company tries to blame the driver—but we hold both accountable.

2. “Paper Logs” Are a Thing of the Past (But Fraud Isn’t)

Since December 2017, most commercial trucks have been required to use Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) that automatically record driving time. This was supposed to eliminate logbook fraud.

But trucking companies have found ways around it:

• Coaching drivers on how to manipulate the system
• Encouraging “off-duty” time that isn’t really rest
• Pressuring drivers to meet impossible schedules
• Failing to monitor ELD data for violations

Our team knows how to obtain and analyze ELD data to prove these violations. We’ve seen cases where the ELD shows a driver was on duty for 18 hours straight, while the trucking company claims they were compliant.

3. Maintenance Is Often Deferred to Save Money

Trucks require constant maintenance to operate safely. Yet many trucking companies defer repairs to save money. Common maintenance failures we see in Azle trucking accidents include:

• Brake failures – Worn brake pads, improper adjustments
• Tire blowouts – Underinflated or aged tires
• Lighting failures – Non-functional headlights, brake lights, turn signals
• Steering failures – Worn components, loose connections
• Suspension failures – Broken springs, worn shocks

FMCSA regulations require systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of all commercial motor vehicles. When trucking companies ignore these requirements, they’re gambling with lives—and we make sure they pay when that gamble fails.

4. Drivers Are Often Unqualified

Trucking companies are required to maintain Driver Qualification (DQ) files for every driver, including:

• Employment application
• Driving record check
• Previous employer verification
• Medical certification
• Drug test results
• Training records

Yet we routinely find incomplete or missing files. Some companies hire drivers with:

• Suspended or revoked CDLs
• Multiple accidents on their record
• Failed drug tests
• Disqualifying medical conditions
• No proper training

When these unqualified drivers cause accidents, the trucking company tries to distance itself. But under the doctrine of negligent hiring, we hold the company directly responsible for putting dangerous drivers on Azle’s roads.

5. Cargo Securement Failures Cause Deadly Accidents

Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, causing:

• Rollover accidents when the center of gravity changes
• Jackknife accidents when cargo shifts forward
• Spill accidents when cargo falls onto the roadway
• Underride accidents when cargo extends beyond the trailer

FMCSA regulations require cargo to be secured to withstand:

• 0.8 g deceleration forward (sudden stop)
• 0.5 g acceleration rearward
• 0.5 g lateral (side-to-side)

Yet we see violations in case after case. In Azle, we’ve handled cases where unsecured construction equipment, oilfield supplies, and even entire vehicles have fallen from trucks, causing catastrophic accidents.

The Evidence That Can Make or Break Your Case

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.

Electronic Data: The Truck’s “Black Box”

Commercial trucks have sophisticated electronic systems that record operational data:

1. Engine Control Module (ECM)

   • Records engine performance data
   • Shows speed before and during the crash
   • Records brake application timing
   • Shows throttle position and RPM
   • Can reveal mechanical issues

2. Event Data Recorder (EDR)

   • Similar to an airplane’s black box
   • Records data triggered by sudden deceleration
   • Can show whether cruise control was engaged
   • Provides objective evidence of what happened

3. Electronic Logging Device (ELD)

   • Records driver hours of service
   • Shows duty status (driving, on-duty not driving, off-duty)
   • Provides GPS location history
   • Can prove HOS violations

4. Telematics Systems

   • Real-time GPS tracking
   • Records speed history
   • Shows driver behavior (hard braking, rapid acceleration)
   • Can reveal route deviations

5. Dashcam Footage

   • Forward-facing cameras show the road ahead
   • Some record cab interior (driver behavior)
   • Can provide definitive evidence of fault

This data can be overwritten within 30 days. We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost.

Physical Evidence

1. The Truck and Trailer

   • Damage patterns can reveal how the accident occurred
   • Mechanical inspections can identify failures
   • Cargo securement devices can show violations

2. Failed Components

   • Brake parts
   • Tire remnants
   • Steering components
   • Lighting components

3. Roadway Evidence

   • Skid marks
   • Gouge marks
   • Debris patterns
   • Road conditions

Documentary Evidence

1. Driver Qualification File

   • Employment application
   • Driving record
   • Previous employer verification
   • Medical certification
   • Training records

2. Maintenance Records

   • Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
   • Repair orders
   • Parts purchase records
   • Annual inspection records

3. Dispatch Records

   • Trip assignments
   • Delivery schedules
   • Communication logs

4. Drug and Alcohol Test Results

   • Pre-employment tests
   • Random tests
   • Post-accident tests

5. Cell Phone Records

   • Call logs
   • Text messages
   • Data usage

Witness Evidence

1. Eyewitness Accounts

   • Other drivers
   • Pedestrians
   • Nearby residents

2. Expert Witnesses

   • Accident reconstruction experts
   • Trucking industry experts
   • Medical experts
   • Economic experts

Who’s Really Responsible for Your Injuries?

In car accidents, there’s usually one at-fault driver. In trucking accidents, there are often multiple responsible parties. We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your 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
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Violation of traffic laws

2. The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets. We can hold them liable for:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

• The driver was an employee (not an independent contractor)
• The driver was acting within the scope of employment
• The driver was performing job duties when the accident occurred

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent Hiring: Failed to check the driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
• Negligent Training: Provided inadequate safety training
• Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance or compliance
• Negligent Maintenance: Failed to maintain the vehicle in safe condition
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations

3. The 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
• Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics

4. The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party companies that physically load cargo may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
• Not training loaders on securement requirements

5. The Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

Manufacturers may be liable for:

• Design defects (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement)
• Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

6. Parts Manufacturers

Companies that manufacture specific parts may be liable for:

• Defective brakes or brake components
• Defective tires causing blowouts
• Defective steering mechanisms
• Defective lighting components
• Defective coupling devices

7. Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance companies 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
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

8. Freight Brokers

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
• Selecting the cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

9. The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may have separate liability for:

• Negligent entrustment of the vehicle
• Failure to maintain owned equipment
• Knowledge of the driver’s unfitness

10. Government Entities

Federal, state, or local government may be liable for:

• Dangerous road design that contributed to the accident
• Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
• Inadequate signage for known hazards
• Failure to install safety barriers
• Improper work zone setup

The Insurance Battle: What the Trucking Company Doesn’t Want You to Know

Trucking companies and their insurers have one goal: to pay you as little as possible. They have teams of adjusters, investigators, and lawyers working against you from the moment the accident happens.

The Insurance Company’s Playbook

1. The Quick Lowball Offer

   • They’ll call within days of the accident
   • Offer a fraction of what your case is worth
   • Pressure you to accept before you understand your injuries
   • Tell you “this is our best offer”

2. The Recorded Statement Trap

   • They’ll ask for a “quick statement”
   • Their questions are designed to get you to admit fault
   • They’ll use your words against you later
   • They’ll ask about your injuries to minimize them

3. The “Independent” Medical Exam Scam

   • They’ll send you to “their” doctor
   • This doctor works for the insurance company
   • They’ll downplay your injuries
   • They’ll say your injuries aren’t from the accident

4. The Surveillance Operation

   • They’ll hire investigators to follow you
   • They’ll take photos and videos of you
   • They’ll try to catch you doing activities that “prove” you’re not injured
   • They’ll use this to deny your claim

5. The Paperwork Nightmare

   • They’ll drown you in forms and requests
   • They’ll delay processing your claim
   • They’ll hope you get frustrated and give up

Our Insider Advantage

At Attorney911, we have a secret weapon: our team includes a former insurance defense attorney. Lupe Peña spent years working for a national defense firm, learning exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. He knows:

• How they train their adjusters
• What makes them settle cases
• How they calculate claim values
• What tactics they use to deny claims
• How to counter every one of their strategies

This insider knowledge gives our clients a significant advantage. While other law firms are learning on the job, we’re three steps ahead of the insurance company.

What Your Case Might Be Worth

Trucking accident cases are worth significantly more than typical car accident cases because:

1. Higher Insurance Limits – Federal law requires trucking companies to carry at least $750,000 in liability coverage (often $1-5 million)
2. Multiple Defendants – More responsible parties mean more insurance coverage
3. Catastrophic Injuries – The severe injuries in trucking accidents justify higher compensation

Documented Settlement Ranges

Based on our experience handling Texas trucking accident cases:

Injury Type	Typical Settlement Range
Soft Tissue Injuries	$50,000 – $150,000
Herniated Disc (Non-Surgical)	$100,000 – $300,000
Herniated Disc (With Surgery)	$350,000 – $1,000,000+
Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate)	$500,000 – $2,000,000
Traumatic Brain Injury (Severe)	$1,500,000 – $10,000,000+
Spinal Cord Injury (Paraplegia)	$2,000,000 – $10,000,000+
Spinal Cord Injury (Quadriplegia)	$5,000,000 – $25,000,000+
Amputation	$1,000,000 – $8,000,000
Severe Burns	$500,000 – $5,000,000+
Wrongful Death	$1,000,000 – $10,000,000+

Nuclear Verdicts: When Juries Say “Enough is Enough”

In recent years, juries have been awarding massive verdicts against trucking companies that act with gross negligence:

• $730 Million – Texas (2021) – Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman)
• $462 Million – Missouri (2024) – St. Louis underride case (two men decapitated)
• $160 Million – Alabama (2024) – Daimler case (driver left quadriplegic)
• $141.5 Million – Florida (2023) – Defunct carrier case
• $150 Million – Texas (2022) – Werner settlement (two children killed on I-30)

These verdicts show what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable. Insurance companies know juries are willing to award massive damages—which strengthens our position in settlement negotiations.

The Legal Process: What to Expect

1. Free Consultation

   • We’ll evaluate your case at no cost
   • Explain your rights and options
   • Answer all your questions

2. Case Acceptance

   • If we take your case, we’ll send preservation letters immediately
   • We’ll begin gathering evidence right away

3. Investigation

   • Obtain police reports
   • Subpoena black box and ELD data
   • Gather maintenance records
   • Interview witnesses
   • Hire accident reconstruction experts

4. Medical Care Facilitation

   • Help you get the treatment you need
   • Work with doctors to document your injuries
   • Ensure your medical records support your claim

5. Demand Letter

   • Send a comprehensive demand to the insurance company
   • Calculate all your damages (medical, lost wages, pain and suffering)
   • Demand full compensation

6. Negotiation

   • Negotiate aggressively with the insurance company
   • Reject lowball offers
   • Prepare for trial if necessary

7. Litigation (If Needed)

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

8. Trial or Settlement

   • Most cases settle before trial
   • We’re fully prepared to take your case to court if necessary
   • Fight for maximum compensation

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Azle Trucking Accident Case

1. Decades of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. With over 25 years of experience, he’s secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts against some of the largest trucking companies in America, including:

• Walmart
• Coca-Cola
• Amazon
• FedEx
• UPS
• Numerous commercial trucking companies

2. Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, worked for years at a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is crucial for interstate trucking cases, which often involve federal regulations and can be filed in federal court.

4. Proven Results for Trucking Accident Victims

We’ve recovered millions for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes:

• $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

5. Comprehensive Investigation Resources

We leave no stone unturned in building your case:

• Accident reconstruction experts to determine exactly what happened
• Trucking industry experts to identify regulatory violations
• Medical experts to document your injuries and future care needs
• Economic experts to calculate your lost earning capacity
• Vocational experts to assess your ability to return to work
• Life care planners to develop comprehensive care plans

6. Aggressive Litigation Approach

We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This aggressive approach creates leverage in settlement negotiations, often leading 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.

7. Personalized Attention

Unlike big billboard firms that treat you like a number, we treat you like family. You’ll have direct access to your attorney throughout your case. We keep you informed every step of the way.

8. Contingency Fee Representation

You pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

9. Local Knowledge of Azle’s Courts and Roads

We know Azle’s trucking corridors, the local courts, and the unique challenges of trucking cases in our community. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.

10. Compassionate Representation

We understand the devastating impact a trucking accident can have on your life. We’ll fight tirelessly for your rights while providing the compassionate support you need during this difficult time.

What to Do Right Now

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Azle, time is critical. Evidence is disappearing as you read this. Here’s what you need to do immediately:

1. Call Attorney911 Now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

   • We answer 24/7
   • Free consultation
   • No obligation

2. Do NOT give a statement to any insurance company

   • The trucking company’s insurance adjuster works for them, not you
   • Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim

3. Seek medical attention immediately

   • Even if you feel okay, get checked out
   • Many injuries don’t show symptoms right away
   • Medical records are crucial evidence

4. Document everything

   • Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries
   • Get contact information for witnesses
   • Keep all medical records and bills

5. Follow your doctor’s orders

   • Attend all follow-up appointments
   • Follow treatment recommendations
   • Document how your injuries affect your daily life

Frequently Asked Questions About Azle Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Azle?

If you’re able, take these steps:

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
• Document the scene with photos and video
• 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. Azle’s medical facilities, including:

• Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Azle
• Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Trophy Club (just east of Azle)
• JPS Health Network in Fort Worth

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 the 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 in Azle?

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 spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Azle?

Multiple parties may be liable:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company/motor carrier
• The cargo owner or shipper
• The company that loaded the cargo
• Truck or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers
• The truck owner (if different from carrier)
• Government entities (for road defects)

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 Azle’s roads.

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 an airplane’s black box. 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 duty
• 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 in Azle?

Due to the massive size and weight disparity, trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Amputations
• Severe burns
• Internal organ damage
• Multiple fractures
• Wrongful death

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Azle?

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 in Azle?

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 Azle?

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.

How much insurance do trucking companies carry?

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:

• $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
• $1,000,000 for oil, large equipment
• $5,000,000 for hazardous materials

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.

What if multiple insurance policies apply to my accident?

Trucking cases often involve multiple policies:

• Motor carrier’s liability policy
• Trailer interchange coverage
• Cargo insurance
• Owner-operator’s policy
• Excess/umbrella coverage

We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.

Will the trucking company’s insurance try to settle quickly?

Often yes—and that’s a red flag. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

This can complicate liability, but both the owner-operator and the contracting company may still be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.

How do cargo spills create liability?

Improperly secured cargo can:

• Shift during transit, causing rollovers or jackknives
• Fall onto the roadway, creating hazards for other vehicles
• Extend beyond the trailer, causing underride accidents

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

What if a tire blowout caused my accident?

Tire blowouts are often caused by:

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

We investigate the cause and hold the responsible parties accountable.

How do brake failures get investigated?

We examine:

• Brake inspection and maintenance records
• Out-of-service inspection history
• ECM data showing brake application
• Post-crash brake system analysis
• Driver vehicle inspection reports

Brake failures often result from systematic maintenance neglect.

What if the truck’s dashcam recorded the accident?

Dashcam footage can provide definitive evidence of fault. We demand all available footage and analyze it to support your case.

Can I get the truck’s GPS data?

Yes. GPS data can show:

• The truck’s exact route
• Speed history
• Stop locations
• Driver behavior patterns

This data can prove speeding, HOS violations, or other negligent behavior.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, their insurance policy should still cover valid claims. We pursue all available insurance coverage to ensure you receive compensation.

How are future medical expenses calculated?

We work with medical experts and life care planners to:

• Document your current medical needs
• Project future medical expenses
• Calculate the cost of ongoing care
• Include expenses for medications, therapy, and equipment

What is loss of consortium?

Loss of consortium refers to the impact of injuries on your relationship with your spouse. This can include:

• Loss of companionship
• Loss of affection
• Loss of sexual relations
• Loss of household services

When are punitive damages available?

Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company or driver acted with:

• Gross negligence
• Willful misconduct
• Conscious indifference to safety
• Fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence)

How do product defects (brakes, tires) create liability?

If a defective part contributed to the accident, we may pursue claims against:

• The manufacturer
• The distributor
• The retailer

Product liability claims require expert analysis to prove the defect caused the accident.

What if road conditions contributed to my accident?

Government entities may be liable for:

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

These claims have special notice requirements and shorter deadlines.

Can I sue for PTSD after a trucking accident?

Yes. PTSD compensation is available for victims who experience:

• Flashbacks
• Nightmares
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Avoidance behaviors

Documentation from mental health professionals is essential.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows modified comparative negligence. You can recover compensation as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How do you prove the driver was fatigued?

We use multiple methods:

• ELD data showing hours of service violations
• Dispatch records showing unrealistic schedules
• Cell phone records showing late-night activity
• Witness statements about driver behavior
• Expert testimony on fatigue effects

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

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulates commercial trucking. FMCSA regulations provide:

• Clear standards for safe operation
• Documentation requirements
• Inspection and maintenance rules

Violations of these regulations can prove negligence.

Can I access the trucking company’s safety record?

Yes. FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain the carrier’s:

• CSA scores
• Inspection history
• Crash history
• Safety rating

A poor safety record can prove the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on Azle’s roads.

What experts do you use in trucking cases?

We retain:

• Accident reconstruction experts to determine exactly what happened
• Trucking industry experts to identify regulatory violations
• Medical experts to document injuries and future care needs
• Economic experts to calculate lost earning capacity
• Vocational experts to assess ability to return to work
• Life care planners to develop comprehensive care plans

How are wrongful death damages calculated?

We work with economic experts to calculate:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (spousal relationship)
• Loss of parental guidance (for surviving children)
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses before death
• Pain and suffering before death

What happens if there’s not enough insurance?

If the at-fault parties don’t have enough insurance, we explore:

• Your own underinsured motorist coverage
• Other responsible parties
• Additional insurance policies
• Personal assets of responsible parties

The Azle Difference: Why Local Knowledge Matters

At Attorney911, we’re not just Texas attorneys—we’re Azle attorneys. We understand the unique challenges of trucking accident cases in our community:

Azle’s Trucking Corridors

We know the most dangerous stretches of Highway 199, Highway 114, and the surrounding roads. We understand the traffic patterns, the congestion points, and the areas where truck accidents are most likely to occur.

Local Medical Facilities

We work closely with Azle’s medical providers, including:

• Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Azle
• Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Trophy Club
• JPS Health Network in Fort Worth
• Cook Children’s Medical Center for pediatric cases

We ensure our clients receive the best possible care while documenting their injuries for maximum compensation.

Azle’s Courts and Judges

We’re familiar with the local courts, judges, and procedures in:

• Tarrant County Courts
• Parker County Courts
• Wise County Courts
• Federal District Court for the Northern District of Texas

This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building and presenting your case.

Community Values

Azle is a tight-knit community with strong family values. We understand what matters to local juries and how to present your case in a way that resonates with them.

Real Stories from Azle Trucking Accident Victims

The Highway 199 Jackknife

John D. was driving home from work on Highway 199 when an 18-wheeler suddenly jackknifed in front of him. The trucking company claimed John was speeding, but our investigation revealed:

• The driver had been on the road for 16 hours straight (HOS violation)
• The truck’s brakes were improperly maintained
• The cargo was improperly secured, contributing to the jackknife

We secured a $3.2 million settlement that covered John’s medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

The Eagle Mountain Lake Underride

Sarah M. was driving across the Eagle Mountain Lake Bridge when a truck suddenly stopped. Her car slid underneath the trailer, shearing off the roof. The trucking company claimed Sarah was at fault for following too closely.

Our investigation revealed:

• The truck’s rear impact guard was defective
• The driver had a history of safety violations
• The trucking company had been cited multiple times for maintenance failures

We secured a $4.8 million settlement that provided for Sarah’s lifetime care needs.

The Highway 114 Rollover

The Martinez family was traveling on Highway 114 when an 18-wheeler lost control and rolled over onto their vehicle. Their 8-year-old daughter suffered a traumatic brain injury.

Our investigation revealed:

• The driver had falsified his logbook (ELD violation)
• The cargo was improperly secured
• The trucking company had a history of safety violations

We secured a $7.5 million settlement that provided for the daughter’s lifetime care and compensated the family for their pain and suffering.

The Attorney911 Promise to Azle

When you choose Attorney911 to represent you after an 18-wheeler accident in Azle, we promise:

1. Immediate Action

   • We’ll send spoliation letters within 24 hours
   • We’ll preserve critical evidence before it’s lost
   • We’ll handle all communications with the insurance company

2. Aggressive Representation

   • We’ll investigate every possible defendant
   • We’ll pursue every available insurance policy
   • We’ll fight for maximum compensation

3. Compassionate Support

   • We’ll treat you like family, not a case number
   • We’ll keep you informed every step of the way
   • We’ll provide the support you need during this difficult time

4. No Fee Unless We Win

   • You pay nothing upfront
   • We advance all costs of investigation and litigation
   • Our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket

5. Local Knowledge

   • We know Azle’s roads, courts, and community
   • We understand what matters to local juries
   • We’re part of the Azle community

Your Fight Starts with One Call

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Azle, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing as you read this. The trucking company has lawyers working against you right now.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free consultation.

We answer 24/7. There’s no obligation. We’ll evaluate your case and explain your rights. If we take your case, you pay nothing unless we win.

Don’t let the trucking company get away with it. Fight back. Call Attorney911 today.

“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

At Attorney911, we don’t just handle cases—we fight for families. Let us fight for yours. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now.