Fatal 18-Wheeler and Tractor-Trailer Crashes in Mansfield, Texas: What Families Need to Know

You’re reading this because someone you love didn’t come home from a Mansfield roadway that everyone in this community drives every day. The interstate corridors, the state highways, the industrial access routes — they’re familiar to every North Texas family. But when an 80,000-pound tractor-trailer traveling at highway speed collides with a passenger vehicle, the physics of the impact leave no room for reaction. A fatal crash on these roads isn’t just a tragedy; it’s a life-altering event that starts a legal clock under Texas law, whether or not anyone has told you that yet.

We’ve represented families in Tarrant County and across Texas for over 24 years, and we know what comes next. The carrier whose driver caused the crash has lawyers who began working the case the night of the incident. The evidence those lawyers control — electronic logging device (ELD) data, dashcam footage, maintenance records, dispatch communications — starts disappearing the moment the accident happens. Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Section 16.003 gives you exactly two years from the date of the fatal injury to file a wrongful-death action. That clock doesn’t pause for grief, for funeral arrangements, or for the carrier’s insurer to return your calls.

This guide walks you through what Texas law provides for surviving families, what the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) require of commercial carriers, and how we build the case from the first investigator we send to the scene.

The Reality of Fatal Truck Crashes on Mansfield’s Freight Corridors

Mansfield sits at the intersection of some of Texas’s busiest freight corridors. Interstate 20 runs east-west through Tarrant County, carrying long-haul freight between the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and points beyond. U.S. Highway 287, a major north-south route, connects Mansfield to Fort Worth and Waxahachie, while State Highway 360 serves as a critical arterial for regional and local traffic. These corridors are lifelines for commerce, but they also carry significant risks:

• I-20 is one of the most crash-prone interstates in Texas, with a documented history of multi-vehicle pileups, jackknife incidents, and fatal collisions involving commercial vehicles. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Crash Records Information System (CRIS) reports that Tarrant County recorded 28,074 crashes in 2024, with 149 of them fatal. Many of these occurred on or near I-20, where stop-and-go traffic, high speeds, and dense commercial vehicle volume create a dangerous mix.
• U.S. 287 is a high-risk corridor for truck-related fatalities, particularly in areas where it intersects with local roads and industrial zones. The road’s design — a mix of divided and undivided sections — increases the likelihood of head-on and sideswipe collisions, especially when commercial drivers fail to maintain control or yield the right of way.
• SH-360 carries a heavy volume of regional freight, including oilfield service vehicles, construction trucks, and last-mile delivery fleets. The corridor’s urban and suburban segments are particularly hazardous for vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists, due to limited visibility and high-speed traffic.

When a fatal crash occurs on these corridors, the investigation must account for the unique risks of each roadway. For example, a crash on I-20 may involve a long-haul carrier with a history of hours-of-service violations, while a crash on SH-360 might involve a local delivery driver who failed to yield at an intersection. We approach every Mansfield case with this corridor-specific knowledge, because the road itself often tells part of the story.

What Texas Law Provides for Surviving Families

Texas law recognizes the devastating impact of a wrongful death and provides a structured framework for recovery under the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Wrongful Death Claims (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 71.001 et seq.)

A wrongful death claim is brought by the surviving spouse, children, or parents of the deceased. Under Section 71.004, each of these family members holds an independent claim for damages, including:

• Pecuniary loss: The financial support the deceased would have provided to the family.
• Loss of companionship and society: The emotional and relational void left by the death.
• Mental anguish: The emotional pain and suffering endured by the survivors.
• Loss of inheritance: The assets the deceased would have accumulated and passed on to the family.

This means that if your loved one was killed in a truck crash in Mansfield, each surviving family member — spouse, children, and parents — has their own claim. These claims are not merged into a single case; they are separate legal actions that must be coordinated to ensure full recovery.

2. Survival Action (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 71.021)

In addition to the wrongful death claim, the estate of the deceased holds a survival action for the damages the deceased would have been entitled to if they had survived. This includes:

• Pain and suffering endured by the deceased between the time of injury and death.
• Medical expenses incurred as a result of the crash.
• Funeral and burial expenses.

The survival action is filed on behalf of the estate by the executor or administrator, and the damages recovered become part of the estate’s assets.

3. The Two-Year Statute of Limitations (§ 16.003)

Texas law imposes a strict two-year deadline from the date of the fatal injury to file a wrongful death or survival action. This clock starts ticking the day of the crash, not the day of the funeral, the day the autopsy report is released, or the day you feel emotionally ready to pursue legal action. If the deadline passes, the case is barred forever, regardless of how clear the negligence is.

For families in Mansfield, this means:

• If the crash occurred on January 15, 2025, the lawsuit must be filed by January 15, 2027.
• If the crash involved a government vehicle (e.g., a city garbage truck, a TxDOT maintenance vehicle, or a school bus), the Texas Tort Claims Act imposes an additional requirement: you must provide written notice of the claim to the governmental unit within six months of the incident. Missing this deadline can also bar your claim.

We open every case with this clock in mind. The carrier’s insurer is counting on families to wait until it’s too late. We don’t let that happen.

The Federal Regulations the Carrier Is Supposed to Follow

Commercial trucking is one of the most heavily regulated industries in the United States. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR), codified in 49 C.F.R. Parts 390–399, set the standards for how carriers must operate. When a carrier violates these regulations, it creates a negligence per se claim under Texas law — meaning the violation itself is evidence of negligence. Here are the key regulations that apply to fatal truck crashes in Mansfield:

1. Hours of Service (49 C.F.R. Part 395)

Fatigue is a leading cause of truck crashes. To combat this, the FMCSR imposes strict limits on how long a commercial driver can be on duty:

• 11-hour driving limit: A driver may drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
• 14-hour duty limit: A driver may not drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty.
• 60/70-hour limit: A driver may not drive after 60 hours on duty in 7 consecutive days or 70 hours in 8 consecutive days.
• 30-minute break: Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving.

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are required to track compliance with these rules. However, drivers and carriers have found ways to manipulate ELD data, such as:

• Logging off-duty time while the truck is still moving.
• Falsifying duty status to extend driving hours.
• Using multiple logbooks to hide violations.

We subpoena the raw ELD data and cross-reference it with fuel receipts, toll records, and GPS data to uncover discrepancies. If the driver was fatigued, we prove it.

2. Driver Qualification (49 C.F.R. Part 391)

Carriers are required to screen, train, and monitor their drivers to ensure they are qualified to operate commercial vehicles. This includes:

• Pre-employment screening: Carriers must verify a driver’s employment history, driving record, and medical certification (49 C.F.R. § 391.23).
• Drug and alcohol testing: Drivers must undergo pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion testing (49 C.F.R. Part 382).
• Medical certification: Drivers must pass a DOT physical examination and carry a valid medical examiner’s certificate (49 C.F.R. § 391.41).

If a carrier hires a driver with a history of DUI convictions, hours-of-service violations, or preventable crashes, and that driver causes a fatal crash, the carrier is directly liable for negligent hiring, retention, and supervision.

3. Vehicle Maintenance and Inspection (49 C.F.R. Part 396)

Commercial vehicles must be inspected, repaired, and maintained to ensure they are safe to operate. This includes:

• Pre-trip inspections: Drivers must inspect their vehicles before every trip (49 C.F.R. § 396.13).
• Periodic inspections: Vehicles must undergo annual inspections by a qualified inspector (49 C.F.R. § 396.17).
• Brake system requirements: Brakes must be adjusted and functional (49 C.F.R. § 393.40).
• Tire safety: Tires must have adequate tread depth (minimum 4/32″) and be free of defects (49 C.F.R. § 393.75).

If a brake failure, tire blowout, or mechanical defect causes a fatal crash, the carrier is liable for negligent maintenance. We subpoena the maintenance records to prove what the carrier knew — or should have known — about the vehicle’s condition.

4. Cargo Securement (49 C.F.R. Part 393, Subpart I)

Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle. The FMCSR requires:

• Proper loading: Cargo must be distributed and secured to prevent shifting (49 C.F.R. § 393.100).
• Tiedown requirements: The number and strength of tiedowns must match the weight and type of cargo (49 C.F.R. § 393.102).
• Special rules for hazardous materials: Additional securement requirements apply to tankers, flatbeds, and other specialized loads (49 C.F.R. § 393.120).

If a lost load, shifting cargo, or improper securement contributes to a fatal crash, the carrier — and often the shipper or loader — can be held liable.

5. Alcohol and Drug Testing (49 C.F.R. Part 382)

Commercial drivers are prohibited from operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances. The FMCSR requires:

• Post-accident testing: Drivers must undergo alcohol and drug testing within 8 hours of a fatal crash (49 C.F.R. § 382.303).
• Random testing: Carriers must conduct random drug and alcohol tests throughout the year.
• Clearinghouse queries: Carriers must check the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse before hiring a driver and annually thereafter.

If a driver tests positive for alcohol or drugs after a fatal crash, the carrier is liable for gross negligence, which opens the door to exemplary (punitive) damages under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Chapter 41.

Who Is Liable? The Defendant Universe Beyond the Driver

When a fatal truck crash occurs in Mansfield, the driver is often the first — and sometimes the only — defendant named in the lawsuit. But the reality is that multiple parties may share liability for the crash. Here’s who we investigate:

1. The Motor Carrier (Trucking Company)

The carrier is vicariously liable for the driver’s negligence under the doctrine of respondeat superior, but we don’t stop there. We also pursue direct claims against the carrier for:

• Negligent hiring: Did the carrier hire a driver with a history of DUI, hours-of-service violations, or preventable crashes?
• Negligent training: Did the carrier fail to properly train the driver on safety protocols, hours-of-service rules, or cargo securement?
• Negligent supervision: Did the carrier ignore red flags in the driver’s performance, such as prior violations or complaints?
• Negligent maintenance: Did the carrier fail to inspect, repair, or maintain the vehicle, leading to a mechanical failure?
• Negligent dispatch: Did the carrier pressure the driver to meet unrealistic delivery deadlines, leading to fatigue or speeding?

We subpoena the carrier’s safety records, hiring files, training materials, and dispatch communications to prove these claims.

2. The Freight Broker

If the carrier was hired through a freight broker (e.g., C.H. Robinson, Uber Freight, or a smaller broker), the broker may be liable for negligent selection if it dispatched the load to a carrier with a poor safety record. The landmark case Miller v. C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. (9th Cir. 2020) established that brokers have a duty to vet carriers before assigning loads. If the broker failed in this duty, it shares liability for the crash.

3. The Shipper

The shipper (the company that loaded the cargo) may be liable if:

• It directed the driver to take an unsafe route or meet an unrealistic delivery deadline.
• It loaded the cargo improperly, leading to a shift or spill.
• It failed to disclose hazardous materials, putting the driver and other motorists at risk.

We review the bill of lading, loading instructions, and shipping contracts to determine the shipper’s role in the crash.

4. The Maintenance Contractor

If the carrier outsourced maintenance to a third-party contractor, and that contractor failed to properly inspect or repair the vehicle, the contractor may be directly liable for the crash. We subpoena the maintenance records and work orders to prove negligence.

5. The Parts Manufacturer

If a defective part (e.g., brakes, tires, steering system, or trailer coupling) contributed to the crash, the manufacturer may be liable under product liability law. We work with accident reconstructionists and engineers to identify defects and hold the manufacturer accountable.

6. The Government Entity (Texas Tort Claims Act)

If the crash involved a government vehicle (e.g., a city garbage truck, a TxDOT maintenance vehicle, or a school bus), the government entity may be liable under the Texas Tort Claims Act (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Chapter 101). However, there are strict requirements:

• Six-month notice: You must provide written notice of the claim to the governmental unit within six months of the incident.
• Damages cap: Recovery is limited to $250,000 per person and $500,000 per occurrence for municipalities, or $500,000 per person and $1,000,000 per occurrence for state agencies.
• Waiver of immunity: The government is only liable for negligent operation of a motor vehicle or a premise defect (e.g., a poorly designed roadway).

We handle these cases with precision, ensuring all deadlines are met and all liable parties are named.

How We Build the Case: The Attorney 911 Investigation Protocol

Within 48 hours of taking your case, we launch a four-phase investigation to preserve evidence, identify liable parties, and build a record that forces the carrier to take your claim seriously.

Phase 1: Immediate Response (0–72 Hours)

• Send preservation letters to the carrier, broker, shipper, and any third-party telematics providers (e.g., Qualcomm, PeopleNet). The letter identifies:

  • The electronic control module (ECM).
  • The electronic logging device (ELD) under 49 C.F.R. Part 395.
  • The dashcam footage.
  • The dispatch communications.
  • The Qualcomm or PeopleNet telematics feed.
  • The maintenance records under 49 C.F.R. Part 396.
  • The driver qualification file under 49 C.F.R. Part 391.
  • The prior preventability determinations.
  • The post-accident drug and alcohol screens under 49 C.F.R. Part 382.
  • Any Form MCS-90 endorsement on the policy.

  We put the carrier on notice that spoliation (destruction of evidence) will be argued — and an adverse inference charge sought — if any of this disappears.

• Pull the FMCSA Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP) record on the driver. This report includes:

  • The driver’s crash history.
  • The driver’s inspection history.
  • The driver’s violation history.

• Pull the carrier’s Safety Measurement System (SMS) profile by USDOT number. The SMS tracks the carrier’s performance in seven Behavior Analysis and Safety Improvement Categories (BASICs):

  1. Unsafe Driving (speeding, reckless driving, improper lane changes).
  2. Hours-of-Service Compliance (fatigue-related violations).
  3. Driver Fitness (invalid CDL, medical certification issues).
  4. Controlled Substances/Alcohol (drug and alcohol violations).
  5. Vehicle Maintenance (brake, tire, and lighting violations).
  6. Hazardous Materials Compliance (improper placarding, loading, or handling).
  7. Crash Indicator (crash history and preventability).

  If the carrier has a poor SMS score, it’s a red flag for systemic negligence.

• Identify all potentially liable parties (driver, carrier, broker, shipper, maintenance contractor, parts manufacturer, government entity).

Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1–30)

• Subpoena ELD and ECM data downloads. The ELD records the driver’s hours of service, while the ECM records speed, braking, and engine performance at the time of the crash.

• Request the driver’s paper logbooks (if applicable). Some carriers still use paper logs as a backup, and discrepancies between paper logs and ELD data can reveal falsification.

• Obtain the complete Driver Qualification File (DQF) from the carrier. The DQF includes:

  • The driver’s application.
  • The driver’s employment history.
  • The driver’s Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).
  • The driver’s medical examiner’s certificate.
  • The driver’s road test results.
  • The driver’s drug and alcohol test results.

  If the carrier hired a driver with a history of violations, it’s evidence of negligent hiring.

• Request all truck maintenance and inspection records. We look for:

  • Missed inspections.
  • Failed repairs.
  • Brake or tire defects.
  • Recurring mechanical issues.

• Obtain the carrier’s CSA safety scores and inspection history. If the carrier has a pattern of violations, it’s evidence of negligent supervision.

• Order the driver’s complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR). The MVR shows:

  • Prior crashes.
  • Traffic violations.
  • License suspensions or revocations.

• Subpoena the driver’s cell phone records. If the driver was texting, talking, or using a handheld device at the time of the crash, it’s evidence of distracted driving.

• Obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules. If the carrier pressured the driver to meet unrealistic deadlines, it’s evidence of negligent dispatch.

• Pull surveillance footage from businesses near the scene. Most retail surveillance systems auto-delete within 7–14 days, so we act fast.

Phase 3: Expert Analysis

We work with nationally recognized experts to analyze the evidence and build a compelling case:

• Accident reconstructionists: They recreate the crash using physical evidence, ELD data, ECM data, and witness statements to determine speed, braking, and causation.
• Medical experts: They establish the cause of death, pain and suffering, and future medical needs for surviving family members.
• Vocational experts: They calculate the lost earning capacity of the deceased and the financial impact on the family.
• Economic experts: They determine the present value of all damages, including pecuniary loss, mental anguish, and loss of companionship.
• Life-care planners: They develop detailed care plans for catastrophically injured survivors.
• FMCSA regulation experts: They identify all violations of federal safety rules and explain how they contributed to the crash.

Phase 4: Litigation Strategy

• File the lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires. In Texas, you have two years from the date of the fatal injury to file a wrongful death or survival action.

• Pursue full discovery against all liable parties. We depose:

  • The truck driver.
  • The dispatcher.
  • The safety manager.
  • The maintenance personnel.
  • The broker and shipper representatives.

• Build the case for trial while negotiating settlement. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, which creates leverage in settlement negotiations.

The Carrier’s Defense Playbook — and How We Counter It

Insurance companies and trucking carriers follow a predictable playbook to minimize payouts. Here’s what they’ll do — and how we counter it:

The Colossus Algorithm: How Insurance Companies Value Your Case

Most insurance companies use proprietary software — like Colossus, Liability Decision Manager, or Claim IQ — to algorithmically value bodily injury claims. Here’s how it works:

1. Medical codes and treatment duration: The software assigns a value based on the type of injury, the length of treatment, and the medical codes in your records.
2. Geographic modifier: The software adjusts the value based on the historical jury verdict pattern in your venue. Conservative counties (e.g., rural Texas) produce lower values. Plaintiff-friendly counties (e.g., Harris, Dallas, Travis) produce higher values.
3. Demographic factors: The software considers age, occupation, and economic status to estimate lost earning capacity and future medical needs.
4. Liability assessment: The software adjusts the value based on who was at fault and whether there are multiple liable parties.

The problem? The software doesn’t account for:

• The emotional toll of losing a loved one.
• The long-term impact on surviving family members.
• The gross negligence of the carrier (which can open exemplary damages).
• The full scope of damages under Texas law (e.g., loss of companionship, mental anguish, loss of inheritance).

How we counter it:

• We develop evidence specifically calibrated to push past the algorithm’s ceiling.
• We highlight the carrier’s history of violations (e.g., poor SMS scores, prior preventability determinations).
• We emphasize the gross negligence of the driver or carrier (e.g., DUI, falsified logs, ignored maintenance).
• We present a compelling narrative that resonates with a Tarrant County jury.

Lupe Peña worked inside this system for years. He knows how to maximize the Colossus value before negotiations even begin.

What Is Your Case Worth? Texas Damages Categories Explained

Texas law recognizes multiple categories of damages in wrongful death and survival actions. Here’s what they include:

Wrongful Death Damages (for Surviving Family Members)

1. Pecuniary loss: The financial support the deceased would have provided to the family (e.g., lost wages, benefits, household services).
2. Loss of companionship and society: The emotional and relational void left by the death (e.g., loss of love, guidance, and support).
3. Mental anguish: The emotional pain and suffering endured by the survivors.
4. Loss of inheritance: The assets the deceased would have accumulated and passed on to the family.

Survival Action Damages (for the Estate)

1. Pain and suffering: The physical and emotional pain endured by the deceased between the time of injury and death.
2. Medical expenses: The cost of medical treatment prior to death.
3. Funeral and burial expenses: The cost of laying your loved one to rest.

Exemplary (Punitive) Damages (Where Applicable)

If the carrier’s conduct was grossly negligent (e.g., DUI, falsified logs, ignored maintenance), the jury may award exemplary damages to punish the carrier and deter future misconduct. Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Chapter 41, exemplary damages are not capped if the underlying act was a felony (e.g., intoxication manslaughter).

The Two-Year Clock Is Ticking: What You Need to Do Now

Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Section 16.003 gives you two years from the date of the fatal injury to file a wrongful death or survival action. That clock started the day of the crash — not the day of the funeral, the day the autopsy report was released, or the day you felt ready to think about legal action.

What happens if you miss the deadline?

• The case is barred forever.
• The carrier’s insurer is under no obligation to negotiate.
• You lose your right to compensation, regardless of how clear the negligence is.

What we do in the first 48 hours:

1. Send preservation letters to the carrier, broker, shipper, and any third-party telematics providers to lock down evidence before it disappears.
2. Pull the FMCSA Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP) record on the driver.
3. Pull the carrier’s Safety Measurement System (SMS) profile by USDOT number.
4. Identify all potentially liable parties (driver, carrier, broker, shipper, maintenance contractor, parts manufacturer, government entity).
5. Deploy an accident reconstructionist to the scene if needed.

What you should do now:

• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free case evaluation. In 15 minutes, we’ll tell you exactly what your case may be worth — with no obligation.
• Do not speak to the carrier’s insurer without legal representation. Anything you say can be used against you.
• Do not sign anything from the insurer. Early settlement offers are designed to be accepted before you know the full value of your claim.
• Gather all documents related to the crash (police report, medical records, photos, witness statements).

Why Choose Attorney 911 for Your Mansfield Truck Crash Case?

We don’t just handle truck crash cases — we specialize in holding trucking companies accountable. Here’s what sets us apart:

1. 27+ Years of Experience Fighting for Texas Families

Ralph Manginello has been representing injury victims since 1998. He is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and has spent his career fighting for families against Fortune 500 corporations, insurance companies, and trucking carriers. His experience includes:

• BP Texas City Refinery explosion litigation (one of the few firms in Texas to be involved in this landmark case).
• Federal court experience in complex commercial vehicle cases.
• 24+ years of trial experience in Texas state and federal courts.

2. Lupe Peña’s Insurance Defense Advantage

Lupe Peña worked for years at a national insurance defense firm, where he learned how insurance companies value claims, select doctors, and deploy tactics to minimize payouts. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for victims.

Here’s what Lupe knows that most plaintiffs’ attorneys don’t:

• How adjusters calculate Colossus values — and how to push past the algorithm’s ceiling.
• Which “independent” medical examiners insurance companies use to downplay injuries.
• How surveillance footage is taken out of context to make victims look “normal.”
• How carriers train adjusters to delay, deny, and lowball claims.

Lupe’s quote: “I’ve reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos and social media posts as a defense attorney. Here’s the truth: insurance companies take innocent activity out of context. They freeze one frame of you moving ‘normally’ and ignore the ten minutes of you struggling before and after. They’re not documenting your life — they’re building ammunition against you.”

3. We Sue Trucking Companies, Not Just Drivers

Most personal injury firms stop at the driver. We go further. We sue:

• The carrier (for negligent hiring, training, supervision, and maintenance).
• The broker (for negligent selection of an unsafe carrier).
• The shipper (for directing unsafe loading or scheduling).
• The maintenance contractor (for negligent repairs).
• The parts manufacturer (for defective components).
• The government entity (if road design or maintenance contributed to the crash).

We don’t let corporations hide behind independent contractor defenses or corporate veils. If they contributed to the crash, we hold them accountable.

4. $50+ Million in Recoveries for Our Clients

We’ve recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for families across Texas, including:

• $5+ million for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss when a log dropped on him at a logging company.
• $3.8+ million for a car accident victim whose leg was injured, leading to a partial amputation due to staff infections during treatment.
• $2+ million for a maritime worker who injured his back while lifting cargo on a ship (Jones Act case).
• Millions in trucking-related wrongful death cases.

“Every case is unique. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.”

5. We Speak Spanish — No Interpreters Needed

Mansfield is home to a diverse community, and we ensure that language is never a barrier to justice. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our staff includes bilingual team members who can assist you in English or Spanish.

6. 24/7 Live Staff — Not an Answering Service

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’ll speak to a live person — not an answering service. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to answer your questions and start your case.

7. No Fee Unless We Recover for You

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means:

• You pay nothing upfront.
• We only get paid if we win your case.
• Our fee is 33.33% pre-trial and 40% if the case goes to trial.
• “You may still be responsible for court costs and case expenses.”

What Our Clients Say About Us

We’ve helped hundreds of families in Texas, and they’ve trusted us to fight for them. Here’s what some of our clients have said:

“Melanie was excellent. She kept me informed and when she said she would call me back, she did. I got to speak with Ralph Manginello once and knew quickly the way his Firm was ran.” — Brian Butchee

“When I felt I had no hope or direction, Leonor reached out to me…She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.” — Stephanie Hernandez

“Special thank you to my attorney, Mr. Pena, for your kindness and patience with my repeated questions.” — Chelsea Martinez

“Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer…Ralph reached out personally.” — Dame Haskett

“I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.” — Ambur Hamilton

“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.” — Chad Harris

“One of Houston’s Great Men Trae Tha Truth has recommended this law firm. So if he is vouching for them then I know they do good work.” — Jacqueline Johnson (Trae Tha Truth endorsement)

“You know if TraeAbn tells you it’s the right way to go best attorney out here you can’t go wrong.” — Erica Perales (Trae Tha Truth endorsement)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long will my case take?

Every case is different, but most truck crash cases settle within 6–12 months. If the case goes to trial, it may take 12–24 months. We push for the fastest resolution possible without sacrificing the full value of your claim.

2. What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Many carriers (e.g., Amazon DSP, FedEx Ground) try to avoid liability by claiming their drivers are independent contractors. We use three legal tests to defeat this defense:

1. The ABC Test: Was the driver free from the company’s control? Did the driver perform work outside the company’s usual course of business? Was the driver customarily engaged in an independently established business?
2. The Economic Reality Test: How much control did the company have over the driver’s work? Did the driver have the opportunity for profit or loss? Was the work integral to the company’s business?
3. The Right-to-Control Test: Did the company have the right to control how the work was done (not just what was done)?

If the driver was operating under the company’s brand, routes, schedules, or performance metrics, we can hold the company liable.

3. What if the truck driver was killed in the crash?

If the truck driver was the decedent, the case may involve workers’ compensation claims in addition to third-party liability claims. We handle both tracks to ensure full recovery for the family.

4. What if I was partially at fault for the crash?

Texas follows modified comparative negligence under Chapter 33. You can recover damages as long as you were 50% or less at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, you can recover 80% of your damages.

5. What if the trucking company is based out of state?

We handle cases against out-of-state carriers all the time. Texas courts have jurisdiction over any carrier that operates in Texas, and we file lawsuits in the county where the crash occurred (e.g., Tarrant County for Mansfield crashes).

6. What if the crash involved a government vehicle?

If the crash involved a city garbage truck, a TxDOT maintenance vehicle, or a school bus, the Texas Tort Claims Act applies. You must provide written notice of the claim within six months, and damages are capped at $250,000 per person and $500,000 per occurrence. We handle these cases with precision to ensure all deadlines are met.

7. What if the truck driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol?

If the driver tested positive for alcohol or drugs after the crash, the case becomes a gross negligence claim under Chapter 41. This opens the door to exemplary (punitive) damages, which are not capped if the underlying act was a felony (e.g., intoxication manslaughter).

8. What if the trucking company offers me a settlement?

First offers are always low. We evaluate every offer against the full value of your claim, including:

• Past and future medical expenses.
• Lost wages and earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering.
• Loss of companionship and society.
• Exemplary damages (if applicable).

We never advise a client to accept a settlement without a full evaluation.

9. What if I don’t have health insurance?

We work with medical providers who will treat you on a lien basis, meaning they get paid from the settlement. You won’t owe anything upfront.

10. What if I’m undocumented?

Your immigration status does not affect your right to compensation in Texas. We represent clients regardless of immigration status, and your case information remains confidential.

Mansfield’s Freight Reality: Why This Could Happen to Any Family

Mansfield is not just a bedroom community for the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex — it’s a critical node in Texas’s freight network. The city’s location at the intersection of I-20, U.S. 287, and SH-360 makes it a hub for:

• Long-haul interstate freight (e.g., Werner Enterprises, J.B. Hunt, Schneider National).
• Regional less-than-truckload (LTL) carriers (e.g., Old Dominion, Saia, Estes Express).
• Oilfield service trucking (e.g., Halliburton, Schlumberger, Patterson-UTI).
• Last-mile delivery fleets (e.g., Amazon DSP, FedEx Ground, UPS).
• Refuse and construction trucks (e.g., Waste Management, Republic Services, Vulcan Materials).

Every day, thousands of commercial vehicles pass through Mansfield’s corridors, carrying:

• Fuel and hazardous materials (tankers).
• Construction aggregates (dump trucks, cement mixers).
• Retail goods (box trucks, refrigerated trailers).
• Oversize and heavy loads (flatbeds, auto haulers).

The density of commercial traffic on Mansfield’s roads creates a high-risk environment for crashes. The Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS) reports that Tarrant County recorded 28,074 crashes in 2024, with 149 of them fatal. Many of these crashes involved commercial vehicles, and the trends are clear:

• Fatigue-related crashes peak between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m., when long-haul drivers are most likely to be on the road.
• Rush-hour crashes concentrate between 6 a.m.–9 a.m. and 4 p.m.–7 p.m., when commuter traffic mixes with freight traffic.
• Weekend crashes often involve recreational drivers colliding with commercial vehicles on rural roads.

Mansfield’s proximity to major industrial zones (e.g., the AllianceTexas logistics hub, the Eagle Ford Shale, and the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex’s distribution centers) also increases the risk of crashes involving oilfield service vehicles, hazmat tankers, and oversize loads.

The Mansfield Jury Pool: What to Expect in Tarrant County Court

If your case goes to trial, it will likely be heard in Tarrant County District Court. Here’s what you need to know about the Mansfield jury pool:

1. Conservative but Fair

Tarrant County is conservative-leaning, but juries here are fair-minded when presented with clear evidence of negligence. They expect corporate accountability and are willing to award significant damages when a carrier’s conduct is egregious.

2. High Awareness of Trucking Risks

Mansfield residents are familiar with the risks of commercial trucking. Many work in industries that rely on freight (e.g., logistics, manufacturing, oil and gas), and they understand the dangers of fatigue, speeding, and mechanical failures.

3. Strong Community Values

Juries in Tarrant County value family, hard work, and personal responsibility. They are more likely to award higher damages for loss of companionship and mental anguish when the deceased was a breadwinner or caregiver.

4. Experience with Complex Cases

Tarrant County has a sophisticated bench with experience in commercial vehicle litigation. Judges here are familiar with the FMCSR, the Texas Pattern Jury Charges, and the nuances of truck crash cases.

5. Willingness to Award Exemplary Damages

If the carrier’s conduct was grossly negligent (e.g., DUI, falsified logs, ignored maintenance), Tarrant County juries are willing to award exemplary damages to punish the carrier and deter future misconduct.

What Happens Next? Our Commitment to Your Family

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, here’s what we do for you:

1. Same-Day Case Review: We evaluate your case within 24 hours and tell you exactly what it may be worth.
2. Immediate Evidence Preservation: We send preservation letters to the carrier, broker, and shipper to lock down evidence before it disappears.
3. Full Investigation: We pull the FMCSA records, ELD data, ECM data, and maintenance records to build a compelling case.
4. Medical Coordination: We work with top medical experts to document your loved one’s injuries and the impact on your family.
5. Aggressive Negotiation: We negotiate with the carrier’s insurer to secure the full value of your claim.
6. Trial-Ready Preparation: If the carrier refuses to settle, we prepare for trial to force a fair resolution.

You don’t have to do this alone. We handle the legal weight so you can focus on your family.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 Now — Before Evidence Disappears

The carrier’s insurer is already working against you. The evidence is disappearing every day. The two-year clock is ticking.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now for a free case evaluation. In 15 minutes, we’ll tell you:

• What your case may be worth.
• Who is liable for your loved one’s death.
• What evidence we need to preserve.
• What steps we’ll take to fight for you.

You pay nothing unless we recover for you. Our fee is 33.33% pre-trial and 40% if the case goes to trial. “You may still be responsible for court costs and case expenses.”

Hablamos Español. Lupe Peña y nuestro equipo están aquí para ayudarle.

Don’t wait. Call now: 1-888-288-9911.

Appendix: Key Legal Terms Explained

References

1. Texas Department of Transportation. (2024). Crash Records Information System (CRIS). Retrieved from https://www.txdot.gov/
2. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. (2024). Safety Measurement System (SMS). Retrieved from https://ai.fmcsa.dot.gov/sms/
3. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (2024). Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS). Retrieved from https://www.nhtsa.gov/research-data/fatality-analysis-reporting-system-fars
4. Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003 (Statute of Limitations).
5. Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 71.001 et seq. (Wrongful Death).
6. Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 71.021 (Survival Action).
7. 49 C.F.R. Parts 390–399 (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations).
8. Texas Pattern Jury Charges, General Negligence and Motor Vehicle volumes.
9. Werner Enterprises Inc. v. Blake, 676 S.W.3d 144 (Tex. 2024).
10. Painter v. Amerimex Drilling I, Ltd., 561 S.W.3d 125 (Tex. 2018).
11. Miller v. C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc., 976 F.3d 1016 (9th Cir. 2020).
12. Texas Transportation Code § 545.351 (Speeding for Conditions).
13. Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02 (Dram Shop Act).
14. Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Chapter 41 (Exemplary Damages).
15. Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Chapter 101 (Texas Tort Claims Act).
16. 49 C.F.R. § 387.7 (Minimum Insurance Requirements for Commercial Vehicles).