18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Fort Worth, TX – Attorney911
When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Your Life in an Instant
The impact was catastrophic. One moment, you were driving down Fort Worth’s highways—maybe on I-30 heading toward downtown, or I-20 connecting to the metroplex. The next, an 18-wheeler is jackknifing across three lanes, or your car is sliding underneath a trailer in a deadly underride collision. In that instant, everything changed.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Fort Worth, you’re not just facing physical pain. You’re staring down a mountain of medical bills, lost wages, and a trucking company that’s already working to protect their interests—not yours. Their rapid-response team arrives before the ambulance leaves the scene. Their insurance adjusters call before you’ve even been discharged from the hospital. And their lawyers? They’re already building a defense to minimize your claim.
You need more than just any attorney. You need a Fort Worth 18-wheeler accident lawyer who knows how to fight back—and win.
At Attorney911, we’ve been holding trucking companies accountable in Fort Worth and across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for families devastated by trucking accidents. We know Fort Worth’s trucking corridors, the local courts, and exactly how to preserve the critical evidence that trucking companies try to destroy.
Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We answer 24/7, and we’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence before it disappears.
Why Fort Worth Trucking Accidents Are Different
Fort Worth isn’t just another Texas city—it’s a major logistics hub where some of the nation’s busiest trucking corridors converge. The Fort Worth area sees thousands of commercial trucks daily, from long-haul rigs on I-35W to local delivery trucks navigating downtown streets.
Fort Worth’s Most Dangerous Trucking Corridors
- I-35W – The primary north-south freight route connecting Fort Worth to Dallas, San Antonio, and beyond. Heavy truck traffic, frequent congestion, and high-speed collisions make this one of the most dangerous highways in Texas.
- I-20 – A critical east-west corridor carrying trucks from the Permian Basin to the Gulf Coast. Long stretches of highway with limited exits create fatigue-related accidents.
- I-30 – Connects Fort Worth to Dallas, with high volumes of commercial traffic, including oversized loads and hazardous materials.
- I-820 (Loop 820) – The major beltway around Fort Worth, where trucks merge with local traffic, leading to blind-spot collisions and wide-turn accidents.
- US-287 – A key route for trucks heading to and from the Texas Panhandle, often plagued by speeding and improper lane changes.
- The Alliance Corridor – Home to the Alliance Global Logistics Hub, one of the largest industrial and distribution centers in the country. Heavy truck traffic in and out of warehouses increases the risk of accidents.
These aren’t just roads—they’re high-risk zones where trucking companies push their drivers to meet tight deadlines, often at the expense of safety. When accidents happen here, the injuries are severe, and the stakes are high.
The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Fort Worth
18-Wheelers vs. Passenger Vehicles: It’s Not a Fair Fight
- A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—20 to 25 times heavier than the average car.
- At 65 mph, an 18-wheeler needs 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields. A passenger car needs only 300 feet.
- The force of impact in a trucking accident is exponentially greater, leading to catastrophic injuries or death.
Common Injuries in Fort Worth Trucking Accidents
| Injury Type | Impact on Your Life | Lifetime Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) | Memory loss, cognitive impairment, personality changes, inability to work | $85,000 – $3,000,000+ |
| Spinal Cord Injury (Paralysis) | Loss of mobility, permanent disability, need for 24/7 care | $1,100,000 – $5,000,000+ |
| Amputation | Loss of limb, chronic pain, prosthetics, inability to work | $1,900,000 – $8,600,000 |
| Severe Burns | Disfigurement, multiple surgeries, chronic pain, psychological trauma | $500,000 – $10,000,000+ |
| Internal Organ Damage | Organ failure, permanent disability, lifelong medical monitoring | $200,000 – $2,000,000 |
| Wrongful Death | Loss of a loved one, lost income, funeral expenses, emotional suffering | $1,000,000 – $10,000,000+ |
These aren’t just injuries—they’re life-altering catastrophes that affect you and your family forever. And the trucking company’s insurance adjusters know it. That’s why they’ll offer you a quick, lowball settlement before you even realize the full extent of your damages.
Don’t fall for it. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 before you speak to another insurance adjuster.
The Most Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Fort Worth
Trucking accidents in Fort Worth don’t just happen—they’re caused by negligence, cutting corners, and corporate greed. Here are the most common types of trucking accidents we see in Fort Worth, and how they happen:
1. Jackknife Accidents
What Happens: The trailer swings out to the side, forming a 90-degree angle with the cab, often blocking multiple lanes.
Why They Happen in Fort Worth:
- Sudden braking on I-35W or I-20, especially in wet or icy conditions
- Empty or improperly loaded trailers (more prone to swinging)
- Worn brakes or brake system failures
- Driver inexperience with emergency maneuvers
Result: Multi-vehicle pileups, catastrophic injuries, and wrongful death.
2. Underride Collisions (Rear & Side)
What Happens: A passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer, often shearing off the roof and causing decapitation or severe head trauma.
Why They Happen in Fort Worth:
- Missing or inadequate underride guards (especially on older trailers)
- Poor visibility at night or in bad weather
- Trucks making sudden stops or wide turns without warning
- Trucks stopped on the shoulder without proper lighting
Result: Almost always fatal or catastrophic for the occupants of the smaller vehicle.
3. Rollover Accidents
What Happens: The truck tips onto its side or roof, often spilling cargo and blocking multiple lanes.
Why They Happen in Fort Worth:
- Speeding on curves (common on I-820 and US-287)
- Improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo
- Liquid cargo “slosh” shifting the center of gravity
- Overcorrection after a tire blowout or lane departure
Result: Crushing injuries, cargo spills, and secondary collisions.
4. Rear-End Collisions
What Happens: The truck strikes the back of another vehicle, often pushing it into oncoming traffic or fixed objects.
Why They Happen in Fort Worth:
- Following too closely (tailgating)
- Driver distraction (cell phones, dispatch communications)
- Brake failures from poor maintenance
- Driver fatigue (hours of service violations)
- Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns
Result: Whiplash, spinal cord injuries, TBI, and wrongful death.
5. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)
What Happens: The truck swings wide (often to the left) before making a right turn, creating a gap that smaller vehicles enter—only to be crushed when the truck completes the turn.
Why They Happen in Fort Worth:
- Failure to signal properly
- Inadequate mirror checks
- Poor intersection design (common in downtown Fort Worth)
- Driver inexperience with trailer tracking
Result: Crushing injuries, pedestrian fatalities, and cyclist deaths.
6. Blind Spot Collisions (No-Zone Accidents)
What Happens: The truck changes lanes or turns without seeing a vehicle in its blind spot.
The Four “No-Zones” Around an 18-Wheeler:
- Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
- Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer (no rear-view mirror visibility)
- Left Side No-Zone: Extends from the cab door backward
- Right Side No-Zone: Extends from the cab door backward—the largest and most dangerous blind spot
Why They Happen in Fort Worth:
- Failure to check mirrors before lane changes
- Improperly adjusted or damaged mirrors
- Driver distraction or fatigue
- Failure to use turn signals
Result: Sideswipe collisions, rollovers, and catastrophic injuries.
7. Tire Blowout Accidents
What Happens: A tire suddenly fails, causing the driver to lose control.
Why They Happen in Fort Worth:
- Underinflated tires (common in Fort Worth’s extreme heat)
- Overloaded vehicles
- Worn or aging tires not replaced
- Road debris (common on I-20 and I-30)
- Manufacturing defects
Result: Loss of control, rollovers, and “road gators” (tire debris) striking other vehicles.
8. Brake Failure Accidents
What Happens: The truck’s brakes fail or underperform, preventing the driver from stopping in time.
Why They Happen in Fort Worth:
- Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
- Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
- Air brake system leaks or failures
- Overheated brakes on long descents (common on I-30 near the hills)
- Deferred maintenance to save costs
Result: High-speed rear-end collisions, multi-vehicle pileups, and wrongful death.
9. Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents
What Happens: Improperly secured cargo falls from the truck or shifts during transit, destabilizing the vehicle.
Why They Happen in Fort Worth:
- Inadequate tiedowns (insufficient number or strength)
- Improper loading distribution
- Failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats
- Tiedown failure due to wear or damage
- Overloading beyond securement capacity
Result: Rollover accidents, vehicles struck by falling cargo, and hazmat spills.
10. Head-On Collisions
What Happens: The truck crosses into oncoming traffic, striking vehicles head-on.
Why They Happen in Fort Worth:
- Driver fatigue causing lane departure
- Driver falling asleep at the wheel
- Driver distraction (phone, GPS, dispatch)
- Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
- Medical emergency (heart attack, seizure)
- Wrong-way entry onto divided highways
Result: Almost always fatal for the occupants of the smaller vehicle.
Who’s Really Responsible for Your Fort Worth Trucking Accident?
In a typical car accident, there’s usually one at-fault driver. In a trucking accident, there are often multiple liable parties—each with their own insurance policies and deep pockets.
At Attorney911, we investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery. Here’s who we hold accountable in Fort Worth trucking cases:
1. The Truck Driver
The driver may be personally liable for:
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Distracted driving (cell phone, texting, dispatch communications)
- Fatigued driving (hours of service violations)
- Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
- Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
- Violation of traffic laws (running red lights, improper lane changes)
Evidence We Pursue:
- Driver’s driving record and history
- ELD data showing hours of service
- Drug and alcohol test results
- Cell phone records
- Previous accident history
- Training records
2. The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)
The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets and the most responsibility for safety.
Bases for Liability:
- Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior): The company is responsible for the driver’s negligent acts within the scope of employment.
- Negligent Hiring: Hiring an unqualified or dangerous driver.
- Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training.
- Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance and compliance.
- Negligent Maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep leading to equipment failures.
- Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service regulations.
Evidence We Pursue:
- Driver Qualification File (or lack thereof)
- Hiring policies and background check procedures
- Training records and curricula
- Supervision and monitoring practices
- Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
- Safety culture documentation
- Previous accident/violation history
- CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
3. The Cargo Owner / Shipper
The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable for:
- Providing improper loading instructions
- Failing to disclose the hazardous nature of cargo
- Requiring overweight loading
- Pressuring the carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
- Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics
4. The Cargo Loading Company
Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo onto trucks 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
The company that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for product defects, including:
- 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. The Parts Manufacturer
Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for:
- Defective brakes or brake components
- Defective tires causing blowouts
- Defective steering mechanisms
- Defective lighting components
- Defective coupling devices
7. The Maintenance Company
Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets 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. The Freight Broker
Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for:
- Negligent selection of a carrier with a poor safety record
- 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 the 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 in limited circumstances 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
Special Considerations for Government Liability in Fort Worth:
- Sovereign immunity limits government liability
- Strict notice requirements and short deadlines apply
- Must prove actual notice of the dangerous condition in many cases
The Evidence That Wins Fort Worth Trucking Cases
In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears fast. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that arrive at the scene within hours to protect their interests. If you don’t act quickly, critical evidence will be lost forever.
At Attorney911, we move fast to preserve evidence before it’s destroyed. Here’s what we pursue in every Fort Worth trucking case:
1. Electronic Data (The “Black Box”)
Commercial trucks have electronic systems that record operational data—similar to an airplane’s black box.
| System | What It Records | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| ECM (Engine Control Module) | Engine performance, speed, RPM, throttle position, cruise control, fault codes | Proves speeding, brake application, engine issues |
| EDR (Event Data Recorder) | Pre-crash data triggered by sudden deceleration or airbag deployment | Shows what happened in the seconds before impact |
| ELD (Electronic Logging Device) | Driver hours, duty status, GPS location, driving time | Proves hours of service violations and fatigue |
| Telematics | Real-time GPS tracking, speed, route, driver behavior | Shows driver patterns and compliance |
| Dashcam | Video of the road ahead, some record cab interior | Proves driver distraction, impairment, or negligence |
Critical Data Points We Extract:
- Speed before the crash (proves speeding or excessive speed for conditions)
- Brake application timing (shows if driver reacted in time)
- 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 the driver ignored)
Why This Data Wins Cases:
ECM/ELD data is objective and tamper-resistant. It directly contradicts driver claims like “I wasn’t speeding” or “I hit my brakes immediately.” This data has led to multi-million dollar verdicts in trucking cases.
We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this data.
2. Driver Records
| Record Type | What It Shows |
|---|---|
| Driver Qualification File | Hiring negligence, training gaps, medical fitness |
| Employment Application | Background check failures, false information |
| Driving Record (MVR) | Previous violations, license suspensions |
| Medical Certification | Health issues that should have disqualified the driver |
| Drug & Alcohol Test Results | Impairment at the time of the accident |
| Training Records | Inadequate safety training |
| Previous Employer Inquiries | Pattern of unsafe driving or violations |
3. Vehicle Records
| Record Type | What It Shows |
|---|---|
| Maintenance Records | Deferred repairs, known defects |
| Inspection Reports | Pre-existing violations the driver ignored |
| Out-of-Service Orders | Critical safety issues that should have grounded the truck |
| Tire Records | Age, wear, and replacement history |
| Brake Inspection Records | Improper adjustment, worn components |
| Parts Purchase Records | Use of substandard or incorrect parts |
4. Company Records
| Record Type | What It Shows |
|---|---|
| Hours of Service Records | Pattern of HOS violations and driver fatigue |
| Dispatch Logs | Schedule pressure, unrealistic deadlines |
| Bills of Lading | Cargo type, weight, securement issues |
| Insurance Policies | Coverage limits and exclusions |
| Safety Policies | Corporate culture of cutting corners |
| Training Curricula | Inadequate safety training |
| CSA Scores | Pattern of safety violations |
5. Physical Evidence
| Evidence Type | What It Shows |
|---|---|
| The Truck & Trailer | Damage patterns, equipment failures |
| Failed Components | Defective brakes, tires, steering |
| Cargo & Securement Devices | Improper loading, tiedown failures |
| Skid Marks | Speed, braking, evasive maneuvers |
| Debris Field | Point of impact, sequence of events |
| Surveillance Video | Third-party footage of the accident |
6. Witness Evidence
| Evidence Type | What It Shows |
|---|---|
| Eyewitness Statements | Independent accounts of what happened |
| First Responder Reports | Initial observations, citations issued |
| 911 Call Recordings | Driver or witness statements at the scene |
| Accident Reconstruction | Expert analysis of how the crash occurred |
The FMCSA Violations That Prove Negligence in Fort Worth Trucking Cases
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates every commercial truck on Fort Worth’s roads. When trucking companies and drivers violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that cause catastrophic accidents.
Proving FMCSA violations is often the key to winning your case.
1. Hours of Service (HOS) Violations (49 CFR Part 395)
The Most Commonly Violated Regulations in Trucking Accidents
| Rule | Requirement | Violation Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 11-Hour Driving Limit | Max 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty | Fatigue-related accidents |
| 14-Hour On-Duty Window | Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty | Driver exhaustion |
| 30-Minute Break Rule | Mandatory break after 8 cumulative hours of driving | Impaired alertness |
| 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit | 60 hours in 7 days OR 70 hours in 8 days | Cumulative fatigue |
| 34-Hour Restart | Can restart 60/70-hour clock with 34 consecutive hours off | Inadequate recovery |
| 10-Hour Off-Duty | Must have minimum 10 consecutive hours off duty before driving | Insufficient rest |
How HOS Violations Cause Accidents in Fort Worth:
- Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes
- Drivers who violate HOS are too tired to react safely to traffic conditions
- ELD data proves exactly how long the driver was on duty
2. Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391)
Trucking companies must vet their drivers carefully. When they don’t, they can be held liable for negligent hiring.
Minimum Driver Qualifications (49 CFR § 391.11):
A person shall not drive a commercial motor vehicle unless they:
- Are at least 21 years old (interstate) or 18 years old (intrastate)
- Can read and speak English sufficiently
- Can safely operate the CMV and cargo type
- Are physically qualified under § 391.41
- Have a valid commercial motor vehicle operator’s license (CDL)
- Have completed a driver’s road test or equivalent
- Are not disqualified under § 391.15 (violations, suspensions)
- Have completed required entry-level driver training
Driver Qualification File Requirements (49 CFR § 391.51):
Motor carriers MUST maintain a Driver Qualification (DQ) File for every driver containing:
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Employment Application | Completed per § 391.21 |
| Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) | From state licensing authority |
| Road Test Certificate | Or equivalent documentation |
| Medical Examiner’s Certificate | Current, valid (max 2 years) |
| Annual Driving Record Review | Must be conducted and documented |
| Previous Employer Inquiries | 3-year driving history investigation |
| Drug & Alcohol Test Records | Pre-employment and random testing |
What We Look For in DQ Files:
- Missing or incomplete files (proves negligent hiring)
- Falsified applications (lying about experience or violations)
- Previous accidents or violations (company should have known the driver was dangerous)
- Expired medical certificates (driver was medically unfit)
- Failed drug tests (company hired an impaired driver)
3. Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396)
Poor maintenance causes equipment failures that lead to accidents.
Key Maintenance Requirements:
- Systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of all vehicles (§ 396.3)
- Driver pre-trip inspections (§ 396.13)
- Driver post-trip reports of vehicle condition (§ 396.11)
- Annual inspections covering 16+ systems (§ 396.17)
Common Maintenance Violations in Fort Worth Trucking Accidents:
- Brake failures (29% of truck accidents involve brake problems)
- Tire blowouts (underinflated, worn, or defective tires)
- Lighting failures (non-functioning headlights, brake lights, turn signals)
- Steering failures (worn or defective components)
- Coupling device failures (trailer separation)
4. Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR Part 393)
Improperly secured cargo causes rollovers, spills, and shifting loads that destabilize trucks.
Cargo Securement Requirements:
- Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent:
- Leaking, spilling, blowing, or falling from the vehicle
- Shifting that affects vehicle stability or maneuverability
- Blocking the driver’s view or interfering with operation
- Aggregate working load limit must be at least 50% of cargo weight
- Specific requirements by cargo type (logs, metal coils, machinery, etc.)
Why This Matters in Fort Worth:
- Alliance Corridor trucks carry heavy industrial equipment
- I-35W and I-20 see frequent cargo spills from improper securement
- Rollover accidents from shifting loads are common on curves
5. Driving Rule Violations (49 CFR Part 392)
These regulations govern how trucks must be operated safely.
Key Violations That Cause Accidents:
- 49 CFR § 392.3: Operating while fatigued or ill
- 49 CFR § 392.4/5: Drug or alcohol use while driving
- 49 CFR § 392.6: Speeding for conditions
- 49 CFR § 392.11: Following too closely
- 49 CFR § 392.82: Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving
- 49 CFR § 392.80: Texting while driving
The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol: What We Do Immediately
In Fort Worth 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.
At Attorney911, we move faster than the trucking companies. Here’s what we do within the first 48 hours of being retained:
Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-24 Hours)
-
Send Spoliation Letters
- Formal legal notice to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties
- Demands preservation of all evidence related to the accident
- Puts defendants on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences
-
Preserve Electronic Data
- ECM/Black Box Data: Engine performance, speed, braking, throttle
- ELD Records: Hours of service, GPS location, driving time
- Dashcam Footage: Video of the accident and driver behavior
- Cell Phone Records: Proves distracted driving
- Dispatch Records: Shows schedule pressure and route
-
Secure Physical Evidence
- The Truck & Trailer: Before it’s repaired or scrapped
- Failed Components: Brakes, tires, steering, coupling devices
- Cargo & Securement Devices: Proves improper loading
- Debris Field: Point of impact, skid marks
-
Obtain Police Reports
- Fort Worth Police Department (for city accidents)
- Texas Department of Public Safety (for state highway accidents)
- Accident narrative, citations, witness statements
-
Photograph the Scene
- Vehicle damage (all angles, interior and exterior)
- Road conditions (wet, icy, debris, potholes)
- Traffic controls (signs, signals, markings)
- Injuries (document progression over time)
Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-7)
-
Subpoena Critical Records
- Driver Qualification File (hiring, training, medical records)
- Maintenance Records (repairs, inspections, known defects)
- Hours of Service Records (ELD data, paper logs)
- Cargo Documentation (bills of lading, loading instructions)
-
Interview Witnesses
- Eyewitnesses (independent accounts of what happened)
- First Responders (police, EMTs, firefighters)
- Truck Stop Employees (driver behavior before the accident)
-
Deploy Experts
- Accident Reconstructionist: Determines how the crash occurred
- Trucking Safety Expert: Identifies FMCSA violations
- Medical Expert: Links injuries to the accident
- Economic Expert: Calculates lost wages and future care needs
-
Canvass for Surveillance Video
- Nearby businesses (gas stations, restaurants, warehouses)
- Traffic cameras (TxDOT, city cameras)
- Dashcams from other vehicles
Phase 3: Case Building (Weeks 1-4)
-
Analyze All Evidence
- ECM/ELD Data: Speed, braking, hours of service
- Driver Records: Background, training, violations
- Maintenance Records: Deferred repairs, known defects
- Cargo Records: Loading, weight, securement
-
Identify All Liable Parties
- Truck driver
- Trucking company
- Cargo owner/loader
- Truck/parts manufacturer
- Maintenance company
- Freight broker
- Government entity (if road conditions contributed)
-
Calculate Full Damages
- Economic Damages: Medical bills, lost wages, property damage
- Non-Economic Damages: Pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment
- Punitive Damages: If gross negligence is proven
-
Prepare for Litigation
- Draft complaint
- File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires
- Begin aggressive discovery against all defendants
The Fort Worth-Specific Advantage: Why Local Knowledge Matters
When you hire Attorney911 for your Fort Worth 18-wheeler accident case, you’re not just getting a lawyer—you’re getting a team that knows Fort Worth inside and out.
We Know Fort Worth’s Trucking Corridors
- I-35W, I-20, I-30, I-820, US-287, Alliance Corridor – We know where the most dangerous stretches are and why accidents happen there.
- Fort Worth’s Weigh Stations – We know which carriers have patterns of violations.
- Local Distribution Centers – We know which companies have histories of cutting corners.
- Fort Worth’s Weather Patterns – We know how ice storms, flash flooding, and extreme heat affect trucking safety.
We Know Fort Worth’s Courts
- Tarrant County District Courts – We know the judges, their tendencies, and how to present your case effectively.
- Fort Worth Municipal Court – We know how to handle city-related claims.
- Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) – We know how to pursue claims against government entities for dangerous road conditions.
We Know Fort Worth’s Juries
- Tarrant County juries are known for being fair but tough—they expect strong evidence and clear proof of negligence.
- We know how to present complex trucking cases in a way that resonates with local jurors.
- We’ve secured multi-million dollar verdicts in Fort Worth and across Texas.
We Know Fort Worth’s Hospitals & Trauma Centers
- John Peter Smith Hospital (JPS) – Level I Trauma Center serving Fort Worth
- Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center – Major trauma and rehabilitation facility
- Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth – Comprehensive care for severe injuries
- Cook Children’s Medical Center – Pediatric trauma care
We work with local medical providers to ensure you get the best care while we document your injuries for maximum compensation.
The Insurance Battle: How We Fight Back
Trucking companies don’t just have lawyers—they have teams of adjusters, investigators, and defense attorneys whose sole job is to minimize your claim.
At Attorney911, we have a secret weapon: Lupe Peña, our associate attorney who spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims—because he used to do it for them.
Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for you.
The Insurance Company’s Playbook (And How We Counter It)
| Insurance Tactic | What They Do | How We Fight Back |
|---|---|---|
| Quick Lowball Settlement Offers | Offer a fraction of your case’s value before you know the full extent of your injuries | We never accept early offers. We calculate your full damages first. |
| Denying or Minimizing Injuries | Claim your injuries aren’t as serious as you say or were pre-existing | We obtain comprehensive medical documentation and expert testimony to prove the full extent of your injuries. |
| Blaming the Victim | Claim you were partially or fully at fault | We investigate thoroughly and gather evidence to disprove their allegations. |
| Delaying the Claims Process | Drag out the process hoping you’ll accept a low offer out of frustration | We file lawsuits to force discovery and set depositions. |
| Using Recorded Statements Against You | Get you to say things that hurt your case | We advise clients to never give statements without an attorney present. |
| “Pre-Existing Condition” Defense | Claim your injuries existed before the accident | We apply the “Eggshell Skull” doctrine—they take you as they find you. |
| “Gap in Treatment” Attacks | Claim you weren’t really injured because you didn’t seek treatment immediately | We document all treatment and explain any gaps with medical records. |
| Sending Surveillance Investigators | Follow you and film your activities to argue you’re not really injured | We advise clients on appropriate conduct and expose unfair surveillance. |
| Hiring “Independent” Medical Examiners | Send you to a doctor who will downplay your injuries | We counter with your treating physicians and independent experts. |
| Drowning You in Paperwork | Overwhelm you with requests to delay your case | We use aggressive litigation and motion practice to force resolution. |
Our Insider Advantage: Lupe Peña’s Background
Before joining Attorney911, Lupe Peña worked for a national insurance defense firm. This means he knows:
- How insurance companies value claims (he knows their formulas)
- How adjusters are trained (he recognizes their tactics immediately)
- What makes them settle (he knows when they’re bluffing)
- How they minimize payouts (he counters every tactic they use)
- How they deny claims (he knows how to fight wrongful denials)
- Their claims valuation software (he understands how algorithms undervalue your suffering)
This is your unfair advantage.
The Damages You Can Recover in a Fort Worth Trucking Accident Case
When you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Fort Worth, you’re entitled to full compensation for all the ways the accident has affected your life. At Attorney911, we pursue every category of damages to maximize your recovery.
1. Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)
| Damage Type | What’s Included |
|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | Hospital bills, doctor visits, surgery, medication, medical equipment, rehabilitation, future care costs |
| Lost Wages | Income lost due to time off work for recovery |
| Lost Earning Capacity | Reduction in your ability to earn income in the future |
| Property Damage | Repair or replacement of your vehicle and personal belongings |
| Out-of-Pocket Expenses | Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, childcare, household help |
| Life Care Costs | Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries (nursing, therapy, medical equipment) |
2. Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)
| Damage Type | What’s Included |
|---|---|
| Pain and Suffering | Physical pain from your injuries |
| Mental Anguish | Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression |
| Loss of Enjoyment | Inability to participate in activities you once enjoyed |
| Disfigurement | Scarring, visible injuries, amputations |
| Loss of Consortium | Impact on your marriage and family relationships (spouse may have separate claim) |
| Physical Impairment | Permanent reduction in physical capabilities |
3. Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence)
Punitive damages are not available in every case—only when the trucking company or driver acted with:
- Gross negligence
- Willful misconduct
- Conscious indifference to safety
- Fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence)
Texas Law on Punitive Damages:
- Capped at the greater of:
- 2x economic damages + non-economic damages (capped at $750,000)
- OR $200,000
- No cap if the defendant acted with specific intent to cause harm
When Punitive Damages Apply in Trucking Cases:
- Falsifying hours of service logs to hide fatigue
- Destroying evidence (spoliation)
- Ignoring known safety violations for profit
- Hiring unqualified drivers with dangerous records
- Pressuring drivers to violate safety regulations
Nuclear Verdicts: What’s Possible in Fort Worth Trucking Cases
When trucking companies cut corners, ignore safety, and put profits over people, juries respond with massive verdicts to send a message.
Recent Major Trucking Verdicts (2024-2025):
| Amount | Year | Location | Case Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| $462 Million | 2024 | St. Louis, MO | Underride collision where two men were decapitated |
| $160 Million | 2024 | Alabama | Rollover accident left driver quadriplegic |
| $141.5 Million | 2024 | Florida | Nuclear verdict against defunct carrier |
| $90 Million | — | Houston, TX | Truck driver burned in explosion |
| $37.5 Million | 2024 | Texas | Major trucking accident verdict |
| $35.5 Million | — | Texas | Family injured in truck accident |
| $35 Million | 2025 | Fort Worth, TX | Largest verdict in Tarrant County history |
Historic Landmark Trucking Verdicts:
| Amount | Year | Case Details |
|---|---|---|
| $1 Billion | 2021 | Florida |
| $411 Million | 2020 | Florida |
What This Means for Your Fort Worth Case:
- Juries are fed up with trucking companies prioritizing profit over safety.
- Nuclear verdicts are increasing—the average trucking verdict now exceeds $27 million.
- Tarrant County juries have shown they will hold trucking companies accountable.
- Insurance companies know this—which strengthens your position in settlement negotiations.
The Fort Worth Trucking Accident Timeline: What to Expect
Every case is different, but here’s a general timeline for Fort Worth 18-wheeler accident cases:
| Phase | Timeline | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate Aftermath | 0-48 hours | Seek medical attention, document the scene, contact Attorney911 |
| Evidence Preservation | 0-7 days | We send spoliation letters, preserve electronic data, photograph evidence |
| Initial Investigation | 1-4 weeks | Obtain police report, interview witnesses, analyze medical records |
| Medical Treatment | 1-12 months | Focus on your recovery; we document all treatment and expenses |
| Demand Package | 3-6 months | Send comprehensive demand to insurance company with all evidence |
| Negotiation | 3-12 months | Back-and-forth with insurance adjusters; may involve mediation |
| Litigation (if needed) | 6-24 months | File lawsuit, conduct discovery, take depositions, prepare for trial |
| Trial or Settlement | 12-36 months | Most cases settle |
