18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Hilshire Village, Texas

Every year, thousands of devastating 18-wheeler accidents occur on Houston’s busy highways and interstates. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in Hilshire Village, Texas, you need experienced legal representation that understands the complex federal trucking regulations and how to hold negligent trucking companies fully accountable.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Houston and Harris County 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 catastrophic 18-wheeler crashes. We know Hilshire Village’s trucking corridors, from I-10 to the 610 Loop, and we understand the unique challenges truck accident victims face in our community.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different

Trucking accidents aren’t like regular car accidents. The physics alone make them far more dangerous:

• A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds – 20-25 times heavier than your passenger vehicle
• At 65 mph, an 80,000-pound truck needs approximately 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields
• The force of impact from an 80,000-pound truck is catastrophic compared to a 4,000-pound car

These massive size and weight disparities mean that when an 18-wheeler crashes, the results are often devastating. Common injuries we see from Hilshire Village trucking accidents include:

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

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Hilshire Village

Our team has investigated hundreds of trucking accidents in the Hilshire Village area. The most common causes we find include:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Federal regulations limit truck drivers to:

• 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• No driving beyond the 14th consecutive hour on duty
• 30-minute breaks after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70 hour weekly limits

When trucking companies pressure drivers to violate these rules, fatigue sets in. Fatigued driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving – it slows reaction times, impairs judgment, and can lead to falling asleep at the wheel. We’ve seen countless accidents on I-10 and the 610 Loop where drivers were operating on just a few hours of sleep.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a growing problem among commercial truck drivers. Federal regulations prohibit:

• Using hand-held mobile phones while driving
• Texting while driving
• Reaching for devices in a way that requires leaving the seated position

Despite these rules, we regularly see cases where truck drivers were distracted by:

• Dispatch communications
• GPS devices
• Smartphones
• In-cab entertainment systems

Improper Maintenance and Equipment Failures

Trucking companies are required to systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles. Common maintenance failures we find include:

• Worn or improperly adjusted brakes
• Bald or underinflated tires
• Defective lighting
• Faulty steering components
• Inadequate cargo securement

Brake failures alone account for 29% of all truck accidents. When we investigate accidents on Houston’s highways, we frequently find that critical maintenance was deferred to save money.

Cargo Securement Failures

Federal cargo securement regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) require cargo to be properly secured to prevent:

• Shifting that affects vehicle stability
• Falling from the vehicle
• Leaking or spilling
• Blocking the driver’s view

When cargo isn’t properly secured, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable and roll over. We’ve handled cases where improperly secured loads have fallen onto other vehicles, causing catastrophic injuries.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Truck drivers are required to operate at safe speeds for conditions. On Houston’s congested highways, this means:

• Adjusting speed for traffic
• Slowing down in construction zones
• Reducing speed in adverse weather
• Following posted speed limits

Speeding is particularly dangerous for 18-wheelers because of their longer stopping distances. A speeding truck needs even more distance to stop safely.

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents We Handle in Hilshire Village

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer and cab skid in opposite directions, folding at an angle like a pocket knife. These often happen when:

• Drivers brake suddenly on wet or icy roads
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers swing more easily
• Speeding on curves
• Improper cargo loading

Jackknife accidents frequently result in multi-vehicle pileups as the trailer blocks multiple lanes of traffic.

Underride Collisions

Underride collisions are among the most deadly trucking accidents. They occur when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of a trailer and slides underneath. The trailer’s height often shears off the top of the smaller vehicle at windshield level.

Federal regulations require rear underride guards on trailers manufactured after January 26, 1998, but there are no federal requirements for side underride guards. We’ve handled numerous underride cases on Houston’s highways where inadequate or missing guards led to catastrophic injuries.

Rollover Accidents

Rollovers happen when a truck tips onto its side or roof. Common causes include:

• Speeding on curves or ramps
• Improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo
• Liquid cargo “sloshing” and shifting center of gravity
• Overcorrection after tire blowouts
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reactions

Rollover accidents often lead to secondary crashes as other vehicles collide with the overturned truck or its spilled cargo.

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions occur when a truck strikes the back of another vehicle. Due to their massive weight and longer stopping distances, truck rear-end collisions are particularly devastating.

Common causes include:

• Following too closely
• Driver distraction
• Driver fatigue
• Speeding
• Brake failures
• Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Wide turn accidents happen when a truck swings wide (often to the left) before making a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing or striking the vehicle in the gap.

These accidents are common in urban areas like Hilshire Village where trucks must navigate tight spaces. Truck drivers are required to:

• Properly signal their intention to turn
• Check mirrors before and during turns
• Yield the right-of-way when completing turns

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)

18-wheelers have four major blind spots where the driver cannot see other vehicles:

1. Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
2. Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
3. Left Side No-Zone: Extends from the cab door backward
4. Right Side No-Zone: Extends from the cab door backward – the largest and most dangerous blind spot

Blind spot accidents often occur when trucks change lanes without seeing vehicles in their No-Zones. Federal regulations require proper mirror adjustment and regular checks.

Tire Blowout Accidents

Tire blowouts can cause the driver to lose control of the truck. Common causes include:

• Underinflated tires
• Overloaded vehicles
• Worn or aging tires
• Road debris punctures
• Manufacturing defects
• Improper tire matching on dual wheels

Steer tire (front) blowouts are particularly dangerous as they can cause immediate loss of control.

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake failures are a major cause of trucking accidents. Common brake problems include:

• Worn brake pads or shoes
• Improper brake adjustment
• Air brake system leaks
• Overheated brakes (brake fade)
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Defective brake components

Federal regulations require systematic brake inspections and maintenance. When we investigate brake failure cases, we often find that critical maintenance was deferred.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Hilshire Village 18-Wheeler Accident?

One of the key differences between trucking accidents and regular car accidents is that multiple parties can be held liable. At Attorney911, we investigate every potentially responsible party to maximize your recovery.

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving
• Fatigued driving
• Impaired driving (drugs or alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Violation of traffic laws

The Trucking Company/Motor Carrier

The trucking company can be held liable under several legal doctrines:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):
The company is responsible for the driver’s negligent acts within the scope of employment.

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent Hiring: Hiring unqualified or dangerous drivers
• Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
• Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver behavior
• Negligent Maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service regulations

We’ve seen cases where trucking companies hired drivers with multiple DUIs or failed to check driving records before hiring.

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 carriers to expedite beyond safe limits

Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking or tiedowns

Truck/Trailer Manufacturer

Manufacturers may be liable for:

• Design defects
• Manufacturing defects
• Failure to warn of known dangers

Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for defective products.

Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance companies may be liable for:

• Negligent repairs
• Failure to identify critical safety issues
• Using substandard parts
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Freight Broker

Freight brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

• Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
• Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
• Selecting the cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

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

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

Government Entity

Federal, state, or local government may be liable in limited circumstances for:

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

The Critical 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

In 18-wheeler 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.

Evidence That Disappears Quickly

Our Immediate Action Plan

When you call Attorney911 after a Hilshire Village trucking accident, here’s what we do immediately:

1. Send Spoliation Letters

   • Formal legal notice demanding preservation of all evidence
   • Sent to trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties
   • Creates legal consequences if evidence is destroyed

2. Preserve Electronic Data

   • Demand immediate download of ECM/Black Box data
   • Secure ELD records showing hours of service
   • Obtain GPS and telematics data
   • Preserve dashcam footage

3. Secure Physical Evidence

   • Photograph the truck and trailer before repair
   • Preserve failed components for analysis
   • Document cargo securement devices

4. Collect Scene Evidence

   • Photograph the accident scene
   • Document road conditions, signage, and visibility
   • Measure skid marks and debris patterns

5. Interview Witnesses

   • Obtain statements before memories fade
   • Collect contact information for follow-up

What Our Spoliation Letter Demands

Our preservation letters demand immediate preservation of:

Electronic Data:

• Engine Control Module (ECM) data
• Event Data Recorder (EDR) data
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
• GPS and telematics data
• Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
• Dispatch communications and messaging
• Cell phone records and text messages
• Qualcomm or fleet management system data

Driver Records:

• Complete Driver Qualification File
• Employment application and resume
• Background check and driving record
• Previous employer verification
• Medical certification and exam records
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training records and certifications
• Previous accident and violation history

Vehicle Records:

• Maintenance and repair records
• Inspection reports (pre-trip, post-trip, annual)
• Out-of-service orders and repairs
• Tire records and replacement history
• Brake inspection and adjustment records
• Parts purchase and installation records

Company Records:

• Hours of service records for 6 months prior
• Dispatch logs and trip records
• Bills of lading and cargo documentation
• Insurance policies
• Safety policies and procedures
• Training curricula
• Hiring and supervision policies

FMCSA Regulations That Prove Negligence

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates all commercial motor vehicles operating in interstate commerce. When trucking companies violate these regulations, they create dangerous conditions that cause accidents. Proving FMCSA violations is often the key to establishing negligence.

Hours of Service Regulations (49 CFR § 395)

Hours of service regulations are designed to prevent driver fatigue. Common violations we find include:

• Driving more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• Driving beyond the 14th consecutive hour on duty
• Failing to take required 30-minute breaks
• Exceeding 60/70 hour weekly limits
• Falsifying log entries

Fatigued driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving. When we investigate accidents, we often find that drivers were operating on just a few hours of sleep.

Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR § 391)

Trucking companies must maintain Driver Qualification (DQ) Files for every driver containing:

• Employment application
• Motor Vehicle Record from state licensing authority
• Road test certificate or equivalent
• Medical examiner’s certificate
• Annual driving record review
• Previous employer inquiries (3-year driving history)
• Drug and alcohol test records

Missing or incomplete DQ files prove negligent hiring. We’ve seen cases where companies hired drivers with multiple DUIs or failed to check driving records.

Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance (49 CFR § 396)

Federal regulations require systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of all commercial vehicles. Key requirements include:

• Drivers must conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections
• Annual comprehensive inspections are required
• Maintenance records must be retained for 1 year
• Vehicles must be repaired before returning to service

Brake failures, tire blowouts, and other equipment failures often result from maintenance violations.

Cargo Securement Standards (49 CFR § 393.100-136)

Cargo must be properly secured to prevent:

• Shifting that affects vehicle stability
• Falling from the vehicle
• Leaking or spilling
• Blocking the driver’s view

Securement systems must withstand:

• 0.8 g deceleration (sudden stop)
• 0.5 g acceleration
• 0.5 g lateral (side-to-side) forces
• At least 20% of cargo weight downward force

Driving Rules (49 CFR § 392)

Key driving regulations include:

• No driving while fatigued or ill
• No use of Schedule I substances
• No alcohol use within 4 hours of driving
• No hand-held mobile phone use
• No texting while driving
• No following too closely
• Speeding for conditions prohibited

Catastrophic Injuries from Hilshire Village Trucking Accidents

The massive size and weight of 18-wheelers mean that accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. At Attorney911, we’ve represented clients with life-altering injuries from trucking accidents on I-10, the 610 Loop, and throughout the Hilshire Village area.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In trucking accidents, the extreme forces can cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull.

Severity Levels:

Common Symptoms:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory loss and confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes, depression, anxiety
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
• Speech difficulties
• Personality changes

Lifetime Care Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Spinal cord injuries disrupt communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of Paralysis:

Level of Injury Matters:

• Higher injuries (cervical spine) affect more body functions
• C1-C4 injuries may require ventilator for breathing
• Lower injuries (lumbar) affect legs but not arms

Lifetime Care Costs:

• Paraplegia (low): $1.1 million+
• Paraplegia (high): $2.5 million+
• Quadriplegia (low): $3.5 million+
• Quadriplegia (high): $5 million+

Amputation

Amputations occur when limbs are severed at the scene or must be surgically removed due to severe damage.

Common Causes in Trucking Accidents:

• Crushing forces from truck impact
• Entrapment requiring amputation for extraction
• Severe burns requiring surgical removal
• Infections from open wounds

Ongoing Medical Needs:

• Initial surgery and hospitalization
• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ per prosthetic)
• Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Occupational therapy for daily living skills
• Psychological counseling

Impact on Life:

• Permanent disability
• Career limitations or total disability
• Phantom limb pain
• Body image and psychological trauma
• Need for home modifications
• Dependency on others for daily activities

Severe Burns

Burns occur in trucking accidents from:

• Fuel tank ruptures and fires
• Hazmat cargo spills and ignition
• Electrical fires from battery/wiring damage
• Friction burns from road contact
• Chemical burns from hazmat exposure

Burn Classification:

Long-Term Consequences:

• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Multiple reconstructive surgeries
• Skin graft procedures
• Chronic pain
• Infection risks
• Psychological trauma

Internal Organ Damage

Common internal injuries include:

• Liver laceration or rupture
• Spleen damage requiring removal
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusion or collapse (pneumothorax)
• Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
• Bowel and intestinal damage

Why Dangerous:

• May not show immediate symptoms
• Internal bleeding can be life-threatening
• Requires emergency surgery
• Organ removal affects long-term health

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can bring a wrongful death claim. In Texas, the following parties can bring a wrongful death claim:

• Surviving spouse
• Children (minor and adult)
• Parents (if no spouse or children)

Damages Available:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses before death
• Punitive damages (if gross negligence)

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Hilshire Village Trucking Accident Case?

25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He has secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts against some of the largest trucking companies in America.

Federal Court Experience

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

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. He spent years working for a national defense firm before joining our team to fight for accident victims.

Proven Track Record of Results

At Attorney911, we’ve recovered over $50 million for our clients. Some of our documented results include:

• $5+ Million – Logging Brain Injury Settlement
• $3.8+ Million – Car Accident Amputation Settlement
• $2+ Million – Maritime Back Injury Settlement
• $2.5M – Truck Crash Recovery
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

Local Knowledge of Hilshire Village and Houston

We know Hilshire Village’s trucking corridors, from I-10 to the 610 Loop, to the distribution centers and truck stops where drivers may be violating federal hours-of-service regulations. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.

Immediate Evidence Preservation

We understand that evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Trucking companies hire rapid-response teams to protect their interests. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve critical evidence.

Aggressive Representation

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.

No Fee Unless We Win

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.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Hilshire Village

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Hilshire Village, follow these steps:

1. Call 911 and Report the Accident

   • Request police and emergency medical services
   • Report any injuries immediately

2. Seek Medical Attention

   • Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out
   • Internal injuries and TBI may not show symptoms immediately
   • Medical records create critical evidence for your case

3. Document the Scene

   • Take photos of all vehicle damage
   • Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, and skid marks
   • Get the truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company information
   • Collect witness contact information

4. Do NOT Give Recorded Statements

   • Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company
   • Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim
   • Let your attorney handle all communications

5. Call Attorney911 Immediately

   • Critical evidence disappears quickly
   • We’ll send spoliation letters within hours
   • The sooner you call, the stronger your case will be

Frequently Asked Questions About Hilshire Village Trucking Accidents

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Hilshire Village, 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. Houston Methodist, Memorial Hermann, and other Hilshire Village area hospitals 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 in Hilshire Village?

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.

What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?

A spoliation letter is a legal notice demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. This includes ECM/black box data, ELD logs, maintenance records, driver files, and more. Sending this letter immediately puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.

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

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 but for trucks. 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.

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Hilshire Village?

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 Hilshire Village?

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 Hilshire Village?

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.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Hilshire Village, Texas, don’t wait. Critical evidence is disappearing every day. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Our Hilshire Village trucking accident attorneys offer free consultations and work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We’re available 24/7 to help you through this difficult time.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. Your fight starts with one call.

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