18-Wheeler Accidents in McKinney, Texas: Your Complete Legal Guide

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in McKinney, Texas, you’re facing one of the most complex and high-stakes legal challenges imaginable. The massive size and weight of commercial trucks create catastrophic consequences when things go wrong. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we know exactly how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

Why McKinney Trucking Accidents Are Different

McKinney sits at a critical junction in North Texas’s transportation network. With US-75 running north-south through the heart of the city and the Sam Rayburn Tollway (SH 121) providing east-west access, our community sees heavy commercial truck traffic daily. The distribution centers along these corridors, combined with McKinney’s growing population and economic activity, create a perfect storm for serious trucking accidents.

The trucking corridors serving McKinney present unique challenges:

• US-75: This major north-south artery connects McKinney to Dallas and Sherman, carrying significant freight traffic. The interchange with SH 121 is particularly congested during peak hours.
• Sam Rayburn Tollway (SH 121): This east-west route sees heavy truck traffic serving local distribution centers and connecting to I-35E.
• SH 5: Running through eastern McKinney, this highway serves agricultural and industrial traffic.
• Eldorado Parkway and Virginia Parkway: Major local thoroughfares that intersect with truck routes.
• The distribution hubs: McKinney’s growing logistics sector means more trucks entering and exiting warehouses, increasing accident risks at intersections and loading zones.

When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle on these roads, the results are often devastating. That’s why McKinney residents need attorneys who understand both the federal trucking regulations and the specific challenges of our local roadways.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in McKinney

Trucking accidents in McKinney typically result from a combination of factors:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Federal regulations limit truck drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, with a 14-hour on-duty window. Yet we frequently see McKinney-area drivers violating these rules due to pressure from carriers. The long straight stretches of US-75 can lull fatigued drivers into dangerous microsleeps.

Distracted Driving

With the proliferation of smartphones and in-cab electronics, distracted driving has become a major issue. McKinney’s mix of urban and rural roads creates additional distractions as drivers navigate between congested areas and open highways.

Improper Loading and Cargo Securement

McKinney’s distribution centers handle a wide variety of cargo. When loads aren’t properly secured according to 49 CFR § 393.100-136, they can shift during transit, causing rollovers or cargo spills that create multi-vehicle accidents.

Brake Failures

The rolling hills of Collin County put particular stress on truck braking systems. Poorly maintained brakes can overheat on long descents, leading to complete failure. We’ve seen this happen on US-75 near the SH 121 interchange.

Wide Turn Accidents

McKinney’s older commercial areas with tight intersections create challenges for large trucks making turns. The “squeeze play” accidents where trucks swing wide before turning right are particularly common in downtown McKinney and along Eldorado Parkway.

Underride Collisions

Despite federal requirements for rear impact guards (49 CFR § 393.86), many McKinney trucking accidents involve smaller vehicles sliding underneath trailers. These are among the most deadly accidents we see.

Tire Blowouts

The Texas heat takes a toll on truck tires. When tires fail on McKinney’s highways, the debris can cause secondary accidents, and the sudden loss of control can lead to jackknife or rollover accidents.

Impaired Driving

Despite strict regulations (49 CFR § 392.4 and § 392.5), we still encounter McKinney-area drivers operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The long hours and isolation of trucking can lead to substance abuse issues.

The Devastating Injuries We See in McKinney Trucking Cases

When an 18-wheeler collides with a passenger vehicle in McKinney, the injuries are often catastrophic:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The extreme forces involved in trucking accidents frequently cause severe head trauma. We’ve represented McKinney residents with TBIs ranging from concussions to permanent cognitive impairment.
• Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis: The crushing forces can damage the spinal cord, leading to paraplegia or quadriplegia. These life-altering injuries require extensive medical care and home modifications.
• Amputations: When vehicles are crushed or pinned under trucks, amputation is sometimes necessary to extract victims. We’ve helped McKinney residents adjust to life with prosthetic limbs.
• Severe Burns: Fuel tank ruptures and hazmat cargo can lead to horrific burn injuries. The medical treatment for severe burns is among the most painful and expensive.
• Internal Organ Damage: The blunt force trauma from truck collisions often causes internal bleeding, organ rupture, and other life-threatening injuries.
• Multiple Fractures: The extreme forces can break multiple bones simultaneously, requiring extensive orthopedic treatment.
• Wrongful Death: Tragically, many McKinney trucking accidents prove fatal. We’ve represented numerous families who lost loved ones in these preventable tragedies.

The medical bills from these injuries can easily reach hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. That’s why it’s crucial to work with McKinney attorneys who understand how to maximize your recovery from all available insurance policies.

Who Can Be Held Liable in Your McKinney Trucking Accident?

One of the most important aspects of trucking accident cases is identifying ALL potentially liable parties. Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple responsible parties:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, in-cab electronics)
• Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
• Impaired driving (drugs or alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Violation of traffic laws

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

The trucking company is often the primary defendant because:

• They’re vicariously liable for their employees’ negligence
• They have deeper pockets (higher insurance limits) than individual drivers
• They can be directly liable for:
  • Negligent hiring (failing to check background or qualifications)
  • Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
  • Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
  • Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)
  • Negligent scheduling (pressuring drivers to violate HOS regulations)

Cargo Owners and Shippers

The company that owns the cargo may be liable for:

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
• Requiring overweight loading
• Pressuring carriers to expedite deliveries

Cargo Loading Companies

Third-party loading companies can be liable for:

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

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for:

• Design defects in the truck or trailer
• Manufacturing defects in components
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective safety systems (brakes, stability control, etc.)

Parts Manufacturers

Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) can be liable for:

• Defective brake components
• Tire defects causing blowouts
• Steering mechanism failures
• Lighting system failures

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers can be liable for:

• Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
• Failure to identify critical safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard or wrong parts

Freight Brokers

Freight brokers who arrange transportation can be liable for:

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

Truck Owners (If Different from Carrier)

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

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

Government Entities

In some cases, government entities may share liability 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

Our McKinney trucking accident attorneys conduct thorough investigations to identify every potentially liable party. This comprehensive approach maximizes your potential recovery by accessing multiple insurance policies and corporate assets.

The Critical Evidence in McKinney Trucking Cases

Evidence in trucking accident cases disappears quickly. The trucking company’s rapid-response team begins protecting their interests within hours of an accident. Here’s what we preserve for your McKinney case:

Electronic Data That Must Be Preserved Immediately

• ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, throttle position, and other critical data. This can be overwritten in as little as 30 days.
• ELD Records: Electronic logging devices record driver hours of service, proving fatigue violations. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention, but we demand preservation immediately.
• GPS and Telematics Data: Shows the truck’s route, speed, and location history.
• Cell Phone Records: Proves distracted driving if the driver was texting or talking.
• Dashcam Footage: Forward-facing and cab-facing cameras can show what happened. This is often deleted within 7-14 days.
• Dispatch Records: Communications between the driver and company about routes, deadlines, and cargo.

Driver and Company Records

• Driver Qualification File: Contains the driver’s employment application, background check, medical certification, training records, and previous accident history. Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.
• Hours of Service Records: For the 6 months prior to the accident, showing patterns of fatigue violations.
• Maintenance Records: Including pre-trip inspections, post-trip reports, annual inspections, and repair history.
• Drug and Alcohol Test Results: Both pre-employment and random testing results.
• Training Records: Showing what safety training the driver received.

Physical Evidence

• The Truck and Trailer Themselves: We inspect for mechanical defects, brake condition, tire wear, and other issues.
• Failed Components: Such as blown tires or broken brake parts.
• Cargo and Securement Devices: To prove improper loading or securement.
• Accident Scene Evidence: Skid marks, debris patterns, road conditions.

Witness Evidence

• Eyewitness Statements: From other drivers, pedestrians, or nearby residents.
• First Responder Reports: Police reports, fire department records, EMS reports.
• Expert Analysis: Accident reconstruction experts can recreate what happened based on physical evidence.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

At Attorney911, we have a strict 48-hour protocol for preserving evidence in McKinney trucking cases:

1. Immediate Case Acceptance: We take your case and begin work immediately.
2. Spoliation Letters Sent: Within 24-48 hours, we send formal legal notices to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence.
3. ECM/Black Box Download: We arrange for immediate download of the truck’s electronic data before it can be overwritten.
4. ELD Data Preservation: We demand immediate preservation of electronic logging device records.
5. Dashcam Footage Secured: We request all available video footage before it’s deleted.
6. Physical Evidence Preserved: We photograph the scene, vehicles, and injuries before anything is moved or repaired.
7. Witness Interviews: We locate and interview witnesses while memories are fresh.
8. Expert Deployment: We engage accident reconstruction experts to document the scene.

This aggressive approach ensures that critical evidence isn’t lost or destroyed. Trucking companies know that destroying evidence after receiving our spoliation letter can result in:

• Adverse inference instructions (telling the jury to assume the evidence was unfavorable)
• Monetary sanctions
• Default judgment in extreme cases
• Punitive damages

How We Prove Negligence in McKinney Trucking Cases

To win your case, we must prove that the trucking company or driver was negligent. We do this by establishing four key elements:

1. Duty: The trucking company and driver owed you a duty of care to operate safely.
2. Breach: They breached that duty through negligent actions or inactions.
3. Causation: Their breach caused your accident and injuries.
4. Damages: You suffered actual damages (injuries, medical bills, lost wages, etc.).

Our McKinney trucking accident attorneys use multiple strategies to prove negligence:

Violations of FMCSA Regulations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399) establish clear safety standards. Common violations we prove in McKinney cases include:

• Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395): Driving beyond the 11-hour limit, exceeding the 14-hour on-duty window, or failing to take required 30-minute breaks.
• False Log Entries: Falsifying ELD or paper log records to hide HOS violations.
• Brake System Deficiencies (49 CFR § 393.40-55): Worn brakes, improper adjustment, or complete brake failure.
• Cargo Securement Failures (49 CFR § 393.100-136): Inadequate tiedowns, improper loading, or failure to use proper blocking.
• Unqualified Drivers (49 CFR Part 391): Operating without a valid CDL, proper medical certification, or adequate training.
• Drug and Alcohol Violations (49 CFR § 392.4, § 392.5): Operating under the influence or failing required testing.
• Failure to Inspect (49 CFR § 396): Not conducting required pre-trip inspections or ignoring known defects.

Negligent Hiring, Training, and Supervision

Trucking companies can be directly liable for their own negligence in:

• Negligent Hiring: Failing to properly vet drivers by checking driving records, criminal history, or previous employment.
• Negligent Training: Not providing adequate safety training on hours of service, cargo securement, or defensive driving.
• Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance, ELD compliance, or safety violations.

Negligent Maintenance

Poor vehicle maintenance causes many McKinney trucking accidents. We prove negligent maintenance by showing:

• Deferred repairs
• Inadequate inspections
• Use of substandard parts
• Failure to address known issues
• Lack of proper maintenance records

Negligent Scheduling

Trucking companies often pressure drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines, leading to:

• HOS violations
• Speeding
• Skipping required breaks
• Driving in dangerous conditions

We obtain dispatch records to show when companies created unsafe pressure on drivers.

Product Liability

When accidents are caused by defective truck components, we pursue product liability claims against manufacturers for:

• Defective brake systems
• Faulty tires
• Steering mechanism failures
• Lighting system defects
• Stability control failures

The Damages You Can Recover in Your McKinney Trucking Case

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical auto policies, allowing for significant recoveries when negligence is proven. In your McKinney trucking accident case, you may be entitled to:

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

• Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs including hospital bills, doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, and medical equipment.
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to your injuries and recovery period.
• Lost Earning Capacity: The reduction in your ability to earn income in the future due to permanent injuries.
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle and other damaged property.
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, and other accident-related costs.
• Life Care Costs: Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries including in-home nursing, rehabilitation, and medical equipment.

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain from your injuries.
• Mental Anguish: Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression.
• Loss of Enjoyment: Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed.
• Disfigurement: Scarring or other visible injuries.
• Physical Impairment: Reduced physical capabilities.
• Loss of Consortium: Impact on your marriage and family relationships.

Punitive Damages

In cases of gross negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct, Texas law allows for punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer. These are available when the trucking company or driver acted with:

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

Texas caps punitive damages at the greater of:

• Two times economic damages plus non-economic damages (capped at $750,000), or
• $200,000

However, there are exceptions for certain types of misconduct.

McKinney-Specific Factors That Affect Your Case

As McKinney trucking accident attorneys, we understand the local factors that can impact your case:

Local Courts and Judges

• Collin County District Courts: Your case may be filed in one of the district courts serving McKinney.
• Collin County Justice of the Peace Courts: For smaller claims or property damage cases.
• Federal Court: If your case involves interstate commerce (which most trucking cases do), we may file in the Eastern District of Texas.

We know the local judges, their tendencies, and how to present your case effectively in McKinney courts.

Local Hospitals and Medical Providers

The quality of medical care you receive affects both your recovery and your case value. McKinney residents have access to excellent medical facilities:

• Medical City McKinney: A full-service hospital with emergency care and trauma services.
• Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – McKinney: Comprehensive medical services including orthopedics and neurology.
• Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Allen: Nearby facility with advanced trauma care.
• Specialty clinics: Numerous physical therapy, pain management, and rehabilitation centers throughout McKinney.

We work with these providers to ensure you receive the best possible care while building a strong medical record for your case.

Local Trucking Industry

McKinney’s growing economy includes several trucking and logistics companies. We’re familiar with:

• Local carriers operating in the McKinney area
• The distribution centers along SH 121 and US-75
• Common routes and accident patterns
• Local truck stops and weigh stations

This local knowledge helps us build stronger cases against McKinney-area trucking companies.

Local Accident Patterns

We’ve identified specific accident hotspots in McKinney:

• US-75 at SH 121: This major interchange sees frequent trucking accidents due to congestion and complex traffic patterns.
• Eldorado Parkway and US-75: A high-risk intersection with heavy truck traffic.
• Virginia Parkway and SH 121: Another congested area with frequent truck-pedestrian conflicts.
• Industrial areas: The distribution centers and warehouses create accident risks during loading and unloading operations.
• Construction zones: McKinney’s growth means frequent construction, creating temporary hazards for truck drivers.

Understanding these local patterns helps us investigate your accident more effectively.

The McKinney Trucking Accident Claims Process

When you hire Attorney911 for your McKinney trucking accident case, here’s what to expect:

1. Free Initial Consultation

We offer a no-obligation case evaluation where we:

• Listen to your story
• Review available evidence
• Explain your legal options
• Discuss our fee structure (you pay nothing unless we win)

2. Immediate Evidence Preservation

Within 24-48 hours, we:

• Send spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties
• Arrange for ECM/black box data download
• Secure ELD records
• Preserve dashcam footage
• Photograph the scene and vehicles
• Interview witnesses

3. Comprehensive Investigation

We conduct a thorough investigation including:

• Reviewing police reports and accident scene evidence
• Analyzing ECM/ELD data
• Obtaining driver qualification files
• Reviewing maintenance records
• Consulting with accident reconstruction experts
• Identifying all potentially liable parties

4. Medical Treatment Coordination

We help you:

• Get the medical care you need
• Understand your treatment options
• Coordinate with healthcare providers
• Document your injuries thoroughly

5. Demand Letter and Negotiation

Once your medical treatment is complete, we:

• Calculate your total damages
• Prepare a comprehensive demand package
• Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies
• Push for maximum settlement offers

6. Litigation (If Necessary)

If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we:

• File a lawsuit in the appropriate McKinney court
• Conduct discovery (interrogatories, depositions, document requests)
• Retain expert witnesses
• Prepare your case for trial

7. Resolution

Most cases settle before trial, but we’re always prepared to take your case to court if necessary. We’ll fight for the maximum compensation available through:

• Settlement negotiations
• Mediation
• Arbitration
• Trial

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your McKinney Trucking Case?

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident in McKinney, you need more than just any attorney – you need a team with specific expertise in trucking litigation. Here’s why McKinney residents choose Attorney911:

1. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998. He’s seen every trick trucking companies use and knows how to counter them. With 25+ years of experience, we’ve handled cases against major carriers like:

• Walmart trucking operations
• Coca-Cola distribution vehicles
• Amazon delivery trucks
• FedEx trucks
• UPS trucks
• Numerous commercial trucking companies

2. Federal Court Experience

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

3. Insurance Defense Insider Knowledge

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurers evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. He spent years on the other side, learning their tactics from the inside. Now he uses that knowledge to fight FOR you, not against you.

4. Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims across Texas. While every case is unique, our track record includes:

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

5. Comprehensive Approach

We don’t just sue the driver – we pursue every potentially liable party to maximize your recovery. Our comprehensive approach includes:

• Identifying all responsible parties
• Accessing multiple insurance policies
• Pursuing corporate assets when necessary
• Building the strongest possible case

6. Aggressive Evidence Preservation

We act immediately to preserve critical evidence before it disappears. Our 48-hour evidence preservation protocol ensures that black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage, and other critical evidence is secured before the trucking company can destroy it.

7. Local McKinney Knowledge

We know McKinney’s roads, courts, and trucking industry. This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case and negotiating with local defendants.

8. Spanish Language Services

McKinney has a growing Hispanic community, and we’re proud to serve Spanish-speaking clients. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español.

9. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This means:

• No upfront costs
• No hourly fees
• No risk to you
• We advance all case expenses

10. Personal Attention

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

What to Do If You’ve Been in a McKinney Trucking Accident

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in McKinney, here’s what to do:

At the Scene

1. Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance.
2. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel okay, get checked out. Many injuries aren’t immediately apparent.
3. Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of:
   • All vehicles involved
   • Vehicle damage (inside and out)
   • The accident scene (road conditions, skid marks, traffic signs)
   • Your injuries
   • The truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company name
4. Get Information: Collect:
   • The truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
   • The trucking company’s name and contact information
   • Insurance information for all parties
   • Witness names and contact information
5. Don’t Give Statements: Don’t give recorded statements to any insurance company without consulting an attorney.

After Leaving the Scene

1. Follow Up with Medical Care: Attend all follow-up appointments and follow your doctor’s orders.
2. Document Everything: Keep records of:
   • All medical treatment
   • Time missed from work
   • How your injuries affect your daily life
   • Expenses related to the accident
3. Don’t Post on Social Media: Insurance companies will use your posts against you.
4. Contact a McKinney Trucking Accident Attorney: Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Within 48 Hours

The most critical evidence in your case can disappear quickly. Contact us within 48 hours so we can:

• Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
• Arrange for ECM/black box data download
• Secure ELD records
• Preserve dashcam footage
• Begin our comprehensive investigation

McKinney Trucking Accident Case Examples

While we can’t discuss specific client cases due to confidentiality, here are examples of how we’ve helped McKinney-area trucking accident victims:

The Fatigued Driver Case

A McKinney family was traveling on US-75 when a fatigued truck driver rear-ended them at high speed. The impact caused multiple injuries including traumatic brain injury to the father and spinal injuries to the children. Our investigation revealed:

• The driver had violated hours of service regulations
• The ELD records had been falsified
• The trucking company had a history of HOS violations
• The driver had a previous accident for falling asleep at the wheel

We sent immediate spoliation letters to preserve the ECM and ELD data. The case settled for a confidential seven-figure amount that covered all medical expenses and provided for the family’s future needs.

The Improper Loading Case

A McKinney resident was driving on SH 121 when a truck’s cargo shifted, causing the trailer to jackknife and block all lanes. Multiple vehicles were involved in the resulting pileup. Our investigation found:

• The cargo was improperly secured
• The loading company failed to follow FMCSA securement regulations
• The trucking company didn’t inspect the load before departure
• The driver wasn’t trained in proper cargo securement

We pursued claims against both the trucking company and the loading company, resulting in a substantial settlement that covered all medical expenses and provided compensation for permanent injuries.

The Brake Failure Case

A McKinney couple was traveling on Eldorado Parkway when a truck’s brakes failed, causing it to crash into their vehicle. The husband suffered severe burns, and the wife sustained multiple fractures. Our investigation revealed:

• The truck’s brakes were severely worn
• The trucking company had deferred maintenance to save costs
• The driver’s pre-trip inspection report showed known brake issues
• The company had a history of brake-related violations

The case resulted in a significant settlement that covered all medical expenses and provided compensation for the couple’s pain and suffering.

Frequently Asked Questions About McKinney Trucking Accidents

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

Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene, collect information from the driver and witnesses, and contact a McKinney trucking accident attorney immediately. The most critical evidence disappears quickly, so time is of the essence.

How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in McKinney?

Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including trucking accidents. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly, and the sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

Who can be held liable in my McKinney trucking accident?

Multiple parties may be liable, including:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• The cargo owner
• The loading company
• The truck or parts manufacturer
• The maintenance company
• The freight broker
• The truck owner (if different from the carrier)
• Government entities (for road defects)

What is a truck’s “black box” and why is it important?

Commercial trucks have electronic control modules (ECM) and event data recorders (EDR) that record operational data similar to an airplane’s black box. This data can show:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Throttle position
• GPS location
• Hours of service compliance

This objective data is crucial evidence in proving negligence.

How much is my McKinney trucking accident case worth?

Case values vary widely depending on:

• The severity of your injuries
• Your medical expenses (past and future)
• Your lost wages and earning capacity
• Your pain and suffering
• The degree of the defendant’s negligence
• The available insurance coverage

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical auto policies, allowing for significant recoveries when negligence is proven.

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

No. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not for you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Let your attorney handle all communications with insurance companies.

How long will my McKinney trucking accident case take?

Case 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 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.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. As long as you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re 20% at fault, you can recover 80% of your damages.

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

No. We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

We investigate all potentially liable parties to ensure there are multiple sources of recovery. Even if the primary trucking company goes bankrupt, we may be able to recover from:

• Other liable parties (manufacturers, loading companies, etc.)
• The trucking company’s insurance policy
• The truck driver personally
• Other insurance policies (umbrella, excess coverage)

Can I handle my McKinney trucking accident case without an attorney?

Technically yes, but it’s extremely risky. Trucking accident cases are complex, involving:

• Federal trucking regulations
• Multiple liable parties
• High-stakes insurance negotiations
• Complex medical evidence
• Aggressive defense tactics

Statistics show that people with attorneys receive significantly higher settlements than those who represent themselves – even after paying attorney fees.

What if I don’t have health insurance?

We can help you get the medical care you need through:

• Letters of protection (LOP) with medical providers
• Medical liens
• Health insurance (if available)
• Medicare/Medicaid (if eligible)

How do I pay for a McKinney trucking accident attorney?

We work on a contingency fee basis. This means:

• You pay nothing upfront
• We advance all case expenses
• Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict
• You pay nothing unless we win

Typical contingency fees range from 33% to 40% depending on the complexity of the case.

What if I’m an undocumented immigrant injured in a McKinney trucking accident?

Your immigration status does not affect your right to compensation. We’ve helped many undocumented McKinney residents recover damages for their injuries. We handle these cases with the utmost confidentiality.

The McKinney Trucking Accident Attorney You Can Trust

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in McKinney, Texas, you need attorneys who will fight aggressively for your rights. At Attorney911, we have:

• 25+ years of experience fighting trucking companies
• A former insurance defense attorney on our team
• Federal court admission for complex trucking cases
• A track record of multi-million dollar results
• Local McKinney knowledge and connections
• Spanish language services for our Hispanic community
• A commitment to treating clients like family

We know the devastation that trucking accidents cause McKinney families. We’ve seen the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take. That’s why we fight so aggressively for our clients – to help them rebuild their lives and secure their futures.

Contact Attorney911 Today

Don’t wait to get the help you need. Evidence in your McKinney trucking accident case is disappearing every day. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re available 24/7 to help McKinney trucking accident victims.

Remember: The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of representation. Call us today and let us fight for you.

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

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