18-Wheeler Accidents in City of Nevada: Your Complete Legal Guide

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in City of Nevada, you’re facing one of the most challenging experiences of your life. The physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burden can feel overwhelming. At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through because we’ve helped hundreds of City of Nevada families navigate the complex legal landscape after catastrophic trucking accidents.

Why City of Nevada 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different

City of Nevada sits at the crossroads of major Texas trucking corridors, with [I-35, US-75, and SH-5] serving as vital arteries for commercial freight moving through Collin County. The distribution centers, logistics hubs, and manufacturing facilities in our area create heavy truck traffic that increases the risk of serious accidents.

Unlike typical car accidents, 18-wheeler crashes in City of Nevada often involve:

Multiple liable parties (driver, trucking company, cargo owner, manufacturer)
Federal trucking regulations that don’t apply to passenger vehicles
Insurance policies with limits 25-100 times higher than standard auto policies
Catastrophic injuries that require lifelong medical care
Complex evidence that disappears quickly if not preserved

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. With offices serving City of Nevada, we know the local courts, judges, and trucking routes that matter most to your case.

The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents

When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a 4,000-pound passenger vehicle, the physics don’t lie. The force of impact is catastrophic, often resulting in:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The violent motion of a trucking accident can cause your brain to impact the inside of your skull, leading to cognitive impairment, memory loss, personality changes, and permanent disability. Many TBI victims require 24/7 care for the rest of their lives.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis: Damage to the spinal cord can result in paraplegia (paralysis of the lower body) or quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs). These injuries often require lifetime medical care costing millions of dollars.

Amputations: Crushing forces from truck impacts can sever limbs at the scene or require surgical amputation due to severe damage. Prosthetics and rehabilitation add to the lifetime costs.

Severe Burns: Fuel tank ruptures, hazmat cargo, and electrical fires can cause third-degree burns requiring skin grafts, multiple surgeries, and years of painful recovery.

Wrongful Death: Tragically, many 18-wheeler accidents in City of Nevada result in fatalities. Families are left grieving while facing medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of their loved one’s income and companionship.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in City of Nevada

Our experience handling trucking cases in City of Nevada reveals patterns in how these accidents occur:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) limits how long truck drivers can operate to prevent fatigue-related accidents. However, many drivers and trucking companies in City of Nevada violate these rules to meet tight delivery deadlines.

FMCSA Hours of Service Regulations (49 CFR Part 395):

Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
Cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour on duty
30-minute break required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
60/70-hour weekly limits with 34-hour restart required

How We Prove Fatigue:

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data showing driving hours
Dispatch records showing unrealistic delivery schedules
Cell phone records showing driver activity during rest periods
Black box data showing erratic driving patterns

Distracted Driving

With the rise of smartphones and in-cab technology, distracted driving has become a major problem on City of Nevada’s highways. Truck drivers face the same distractions as other motorists, plus additional distractions from:

Dispatch communications via Qualcomm or other systems
GPS navigation devices
Electronic logging devices
In-cab entertainment systems

FMCSA Prohibitions (49 CFR § 392.82):

Using hand-held mobile phones while driving
Texting while driving
Reaching for a mobile device in a manner that requires leaving the seated position

Improper Maintenance and Equipment Failures

Trucking companies are required to systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles (49 CFR Part 396). However, many cut corners to save money, leading to:

Brake Failures: Poorly maintained brakes or improper adjustments can prevent a truck from stopping in time. Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes.

Tire Blowouts: Underinflated tires, overloaded vehicles, or worn tread can cause blowouts that lead to loss of control. City of Nevada’s summer heat makes tire blowouts particularly dangerous.

Lighting and Visibility Issues: Malfunctioning headlights, taillights, or reflectors make trucks less visible, especially at night or in poor weather conditions.

Steering Failures: Worn or defective steering components can cause sudden loss of control.

Cargo Securement Violations

Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, causing rollovers or spills that endanger other motorists. FMCSA regulations (49 CFR Part 393) specify:

Minimum number of tiedowns based on cargo length and weight
Working load limits for securement devices
Special requirements for different cargo types (logs, metal coils, machinery, etc.)

Negligent Hiring and Training

Trucking companies in City of Nevada must ensure their drivers are properly qualified (49 CFR Part 391). This includes:

Verifying commercial driver’s licenses (CDL)
Checking driving records
Conducting background checks
Providing proper training
Monitoring driver performance

When companies cut corners in hiring or training, they put everyone on the road at risk.

The Most Dangerous Trucking Accidents in City of Nevada

Certain types of 18-wheeler accidents are particularly common and dangerous in our area:

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknifing occurs when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic. These accidents are especially common on City of Nevada’s highways during sudden braking or when drivers take curves too fast.

Common Causes:

Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
Speeding, especially on curves or ramps
Empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing)
Improperly loaded cargo
Brake system failures
Driver inexperience with emergency maneuvers

Underride Collisions

Underride accidents occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler. These are among the most deadly trucking accidents because the trailer often shears off the top of the smaller vehicle.

Types of Underride Accidents:

Rear Underride: Vehicle strikes the back of a trailer
Side Underride: Vehicle impacts the side of a trailer during lane changes or turns

Federal Requirements:

Rear impact guards must be installed on trailers manufactured after January 26, 1998
Guards must prevent underride at 30 mph impact
No federal requirement for side underride guards (advocacy ongoing)

Rollover Accidents

Due to their high center of gravity, 18-wheelers are prone to rollovers, especially when:

Taking curves or ramps too fast
Carrying top-heavy or shifting cargo
Experiencing liquid cargo “slosh” in tankers
Overcorrecting after a tire blowout or lane departure

Rollover accidents often result in secondary crashes as debris and the trailer itself block multiple lanes.

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Trucks need to swing wide to complete right turns, creating a gap that smaller vehicles may try to enter. When the truck completes its turn, it can crush the vehicle that entered the gap.

Common Locations in City of Nevada:

Intersections with multiple lanes
Shopping center entrances and exits
Industrial park access points
Highway on/off ramps

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)

Large trucks have significant blind spots where the driver cannot see other vehicles:

Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
Left Side No-Zone: Extends from the cab door backward
Right Side No-Zone: Extends from the cab door backward and is much larger than the left side

Accidents often occur when trucks change lanes without seeing vehicles in these blind spots.

Who Is Liable for Your 18-Wheeler Accident in City of Nevada?

One of the most important aspects of trucking accident cases is identifying all potentially liable parties. Unlike car accidents where usually only one driver is at fault, 18-wheeler crashes often involve multiple responsible parties.

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for negligent conduct such as:

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

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

Trucking companies are often the most important defendants because they have the deepest pockets and highest insurance limits.

Vicarious Liability:
Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment.

Direct Negligence:
Trucking companies can also be directly liable for:

Negligent Hiring: Failing to check the driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
Negligent Training: Providing inadequate safety training
Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance and compliance with regulations
Negligent Maintenance: Failing to properly maintain vehicles
Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service regulations

Cargo Owner/Shipper

The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable for:

Providing improper loading instructions
Failing to disclose the hazardous nature of cargo
Requiring overweight loading
Pressuring the carrier to expedite delivery beyond safe limits
Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics

Cargo Loading Company

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

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

Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

The company that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for defects:

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

Parts Manufacturer

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

Defective brake components
Defective tires causing blowouts
Defective steering mechanisms
Defective lighting components
Defective coupling devices

Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets may be liable for:

Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
Failure to identify critical safety issues
Improper brake adjustments
Using substandard or wrong parts
Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Freight Broker

Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for:

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

Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

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

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

Government Entity

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

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

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.

Why 48 Hours Matters

Evidence Type	Destruction Risk
ECM/Black Box Data	Overwrites in 30 days or with new driving events
ELD Data	May be retained only 6 months
Dashcam Footage	Often deleted within 7-14 days
Surveillance Video	Business cameras typically overwrite in 7-30 days
Witness Memory	Fades significantly within weeks
Physical Evidence	Vehicle may be repaired, sold, or scrapped
Drug/Alcohol Tests	Must be conducted within specific windows

The Spoliation Letter: Your Legal Shield

A spoliation letter is a formal legal notice sent to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence related to the accident.

Why It Matters:

Puts defendants on legal notice of their preservation obligation
Creates serious consequences if evidence is destroyed
Courts can impose sanctions, adverse inferences, or even default judgment for spoliation
The sooner sent, the more weight it carries

We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained.

What the Spoliation Letter Demands

Electronic Data:

Engine Control Module (ECM) / Electronic Control Unit (ECU) 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 (pre-employment and random)
Training records and certifications
Previous accident and violation history
Performance reviews and disciplinary records

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

Physical Evidence:

The truck and trailer themselves
Failed or damaged components
Cargo and securement devices
Tire remnants if blowout involved

ECM/Black Box Data: The Smoking Gun

Commercial trucks have electronic systems that continuously record operational data – similar to an airplane’s black box but for trucks.

Types of Electronic Recording:

System	What It Records
ECM (Engine Control Module)	Engine performance, speed, throttle, RPM, cruise control, fault codes
EDR (Event Data Recorder)	Pre-crash data triggered by sudden deceleration or airbag deployment
ELD (Electronic Logging Device)	Driver hours, duty status, GPS location, driving time
Telematics	Real-time GPS tracking, speed, route, driver behavior
Dashcam	Video of road ahead, some record cab interior

Critical Data Points We Obtain:

Speed Before Crash: Proves speeding or excessive speed for conditions
Brake Application: Shows when and how hard brakes were applied
Throttle Position: Reveals if driver was accelerating or coasting
Following Distance: Calculated from speed and deceleration data
Hours of Service: Proves fatigue and HOS violations
GPS Location: Confirms route and timing
Fault Codes: May reveal known mechanical issues driver ignored

Why This Data Wins Cases:

ECM/ELD data is objective and tamper-resistant. It directly contradicts driver claims of “I wasn’t speeding” or “I hit my brakes immediately.” This data has led to multi-million dollar verdicts in trucking cases.

How We Prove Liability in Your City of Nevada Trucking Accident Case

Building a strong case requires a comprehensive investigation and analysis of all available evidence. Our approach includes:

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation

Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
Demand immediate download of all ELD data and black box recordings
Subpoena cell phone records to prove distracted driving
Obtain police crash reports and 911 call recordings
Canvass accident scene for security camera footage from nearby businesses
Photograph all damage, tire marks, debris patterns, and road conditions
Interview witnesses before memories fade
Hire accident reconstruction experts for complex crashes

2. FMCSA Records Review

Obtain the carrier’s complete safety record
Review CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
Analyze inspection history and out-of-service rates
Examine crash history for patterns
Identify previous violations that should have been corrected

3. Driver Qualification File Analysis

The Driver Qualification (DQ) File must contain specific documents (49 CFR § 391.51):

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

Red Flags We Look For:

Missing or incomplete files
Falsified employment applications
Clean driving records that don’t match actual history
Expired medical certificates
Positive drug tests that weren’t reported
Previous accidents or violations that weren’t investigated

4. Hours of Service Investigation

We meticulously analyze ELD data to identify HOS violations:

Driving beyond the 11-hour limit
Exceeding the 14-hour on-duty window
Missing required 30-minute breaks
Violating weekly 60/70-hour limits
False log entries
Inadequate off-duty periods

How HOS Violations Strengthen Your Case:

Prove driver fatigue
Demonstrate carrier’s disregard for safety
Support punitive damages claims
Show pattern of regulatory violations

5. Maintenance and Inspection Records Review

FMCSA requires systematic inspection and maintenance (49 CFR Part 396). We examine:

Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
Annual inspection records
Maintenance work orders
Repair records
Parts replacement history

Common Violations We Find:

Deferred maintenance
Improper brake adjustments
Worn or defective tires
Malfunctioning lighting
Faulty steering components

6. Cargo Securement Analysis

Improperly secured cargo causes rollovers, spills, and loss of control. We investigate:

Number and type of tiedowns used
Working load limits of securement devices
Load distribution and balance
Special requirements for specific cargo types
Loading company procedures

7. Accident Reconstruction

For complex accidents, we retain expert engineers to:

Analyze skid marks and debris patterns
Reconstruct the sequence of events
Determine speeds and forces involved
Identify contributing factors
Create visual exhibits for trial

8. Expert Witness Network

We work with a network of experts including:

Accident reconstruction specialists
Medical experts to establish causation
Vocational experts to calculate lost earning capacity
Economic experts to determine present value of damages
Life care planners to develop comprehensive care plans
FMCSA regulation experts to identify violations

The Insurance Battle: How We Fight Back

Trucking companies and their insurers have teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows their tactics from the inside.

Common Insurance Company Tactics

Tactic	Our Counter-Strategy
Quick Lowball Settlement Offers	We never accept early offers. We calculate full future damages first to ensure you’re fully compensated.
Denying or Minimizing Injuries	We obtain comprehensive medical documentation and expert testimony to prove the full extent of your injuries.
Blaming the Victim	We investigate thoroughly and gather evidence to disprove false allegations of comparative fault.
Delaying the Claims Process	We file lawsuits to force discovery and set depositions, putting pressure on the insurance company to settle.
Using Recorded Statements Against You	We advise clients NEVER to give statements without an attorney present.
“Pre-Existing Condition” Defense	We apply Texas law that requires defendants to “take the plaintiff as they find them.” If the accident aggravated a pre-existing condition, you’re entitled to compensation.
“Gap in Treatment” Attacks	We document all treatment and explain any gaps with medical records.
Sending Surveillance Investigators	We advise clients on appropriate conduct and expose unfair surveillance tactics.
Hiring “Independent” Medical Examiners	We counter with our own treating physicians and independent experts.
Drowning You in Paperwork	We handle all communications and use aggressive litigation to force resolution.

Why Our Insurance Defense Experience Matters

Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm before joining Attorney911. He knows:

How insurance companies value claims
How adjusters are trained to minimize payouts
What makes them settle cases
How they attempt to deny claims
The claims valuation software they use (like Colossus)

This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage in negotiations and litigation.

What Your Case Is Worth: Understanding Damages

The value of your 18-wheeler accident case depends on many factors, including the severity of your injuries, the degree of negligence, and the available insurance coverage.

Types of Damages Recoverable

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):

Category	What’s Included
Medical Expenses	Past, present, and future medical costs including hospital bills, doctor visits, surgery, rehabilitation, medication, and medical equipment
Lost Wages	Income lost due to injury and recovery time
Lost Earning Capacity	Reduction in future earning ability due to permanent disability
Property Damage	Vehicle repair or replacement costs
Out-of-Pocket Expenses	Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, and other accident-related expenses
Life Care Costs	Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries including home health aides, medical equipment, and facility care

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life):

Category	What’s Included
Pain and Suffering	Physical pain from injuries
Mental Anguish	Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression
Loss of Enjoyment	Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed
Disfigurement	Scarring, visible injuries, or physical changes
Loss of Consortium	Impact on marriage and family relationships
Physical Impairment	Reduced physical capabilities and limitations

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence):

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

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

Texas Damage Caps

Texas law limits certain damages in personal injury cases:

Non-Economic Damages: No cap in most personal injury cases (unlike medical malpractice cases which are capped at $250,000)
Punitive Damages: Greater of (2x economic damages + non-economic damages capped at $750,000) OR $200,000

Case Value Examples from Our Experience

While every case is unique, our experience handling trucking accident cases in Texas provides insight into potential case values:

Injury Type	Settlement Range
Soft Tissue (Whiplash)	$15,000 – $60,000
Herniated Disc (Non-Surgical)	$50,000 – $200,000
Herniated Disc (With Surgery)	$346,000 – $1,205,000
Traumatic Brain Injury (Mod-Severe)	$1,548,000 – $9,838,000+
Spinal Cord Injury (Paraplegia)	$4,770,000 – $25,880,000+
Amputation	$1,945,000 – $8,630,000
Wrongful Death	$1,910,000 – $9,520,000+

Factors That Increase Case Value:

Clear liability (defendant 100% at fault)
Severe, permanent injuries
Catastrophic injuries requiring lifelong care
Gross negligence or willful misconduct
High available insurance limits
Solvent defendants (large trucking companies)
Strong evidence of violations (HOS, maintenance, etc.)
Multiple liable parties
Strong expert witness testimony

The Legal Process: What to Expect

1. Free Consultation

We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to evaluate your case. During this meeting, we’ll:

Listen to your story
Review the facts of your accident
Explain your legal rights
Discuss potential case strategies
Answer your questions

2. Case Investigation

Once you retain our firm, we immediately begin investigating your case:

Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
Obtain police reports and accident scene photos
Collect witness statements
Secure ECM/ELD data
Review medical records
Investigate all potentially liable parties

3. Medical Treatment and Documentation

We help you get the medical care you need and ensure all treatment is properly documented. This includes:

Connecting you with trusted medical providers
Ensuring proper diagnosis and treatment
Documenting all injuries and their impact on your life
Obtaining expert medical opinions when needed

4. Demand Letter

Once your medical treatment is complete or we have a clear picture of your future medical needs, we send a comprehensive demand letter to the insurance companies. This letter includes:

Detailed description of the accident
Summary of your injuries and treatment
Itemized list of economic damages
Calculation of non-economic damages
Legal arguments supporting liability
Settlement demand amount

5. Negotiation

We negotiate aggressively with the insurance companies to reach a fair settlement. This process may involve:

Multiple rounds of negotiation
Counteroffers and demands
Mediation (a formal settlement conference)
Threat of litigation to pressure settlement

6. Litigation (If Necessary)

If we cannot reach a fair settlement, we file a lawsuit and begin the litigation process:

Filing the Complaint: We file a legal document outlining your claims
Discovery: Both sides exchange information and evidence
Depositions: We take sworn testimony from witnesses and defendants
Motions: We file legal motions to strengthen your case
Trial Preparation: We prepare your case for trial
Trial: We present your case to a judge or jury

7. Settlement or Verdict

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready to fight for you in court if necessary.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your City of Nevada Trucking Accident Case

1. Local Knowledge and Experience

We know City of Nevada’s trucking corridors, courts, and community. Our experience handling cases in Collin County gives us unique insight into:

The most dangerous intersections and highways
Local judges and their tendencies
Jury demographics and expectations
The trucking companies that operate in our area
The unique challenges of trucking cases in North Texas

2. Proven Track Record

Our firm has recovered $50+ million for injury victims across Texas. While every case is unique, our experience 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

3. Insurance Defense Experience

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows:

How insurance companies evaluate claims
How adjusters are trained to minimize payouts
What makes them settle cases
How they attempt to deny claims
The claims valuation software they use

This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage in negotiations and litigation.

4. 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 that can be filed in federal court
Complex cases involving multiple defendants
Cases with significant damages that may exceed state court limits

5. Comprehensive Resources

We have the resources to handle complex trucking cases:

Network of expert witnesses
Accident reconstruction specialists
Medical experts
Vocational experts
Economic experts
Life care planners
Investigative team

6. Contingency Fee Representation

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. This means:

No upfront costs
No hourly fees
No retainer required
We advance all costs of investigation and litigation
Our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket

7. Personal Attention

Unlike large firms that treat you like a case number, we treat our clients like family. You’ll have direct access to your attorney and our team throughout your case.

8. Bilingual Services

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, is fluent in Spanish, and our staff includes bilingual team members. We can communicate directly with Spanish-speaking clients without the need for interpreters.

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

9. 24/7 Availability

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and address your concerns.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in City of Nevada

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in City of Nevada, follow these steps to protect your health and your legal rights:

1. Call 911

Report the accident to law enforcement and request medical assistance. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to get checked out by medical professionals.

2. Seek Medical Attention

Some injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent. Seek medical attention as soon as possible after the accident.

3. Document the Scene

If you’re able, take photos and videos of:

All vehicles involved in the accident
Damage to your vehicle and the truck
Skid marks, debris, and road conditions
Traffic signs and signals
Your injuries
The surrounding area

4. Collect Information

Get the following information from the truck driver and other parties involved:

Name, address, and phone number
Driver’s license number
Insurance information
Trucking company name and contact information
Truck and trailer license plate numbers
DOT number (on the truck door)

5. Get Witness Information

Collect names and contact information from any witnesses to the accident.

6. Do Not Give Statements

Do not give recorded statements to any insurance company without consulting an attorney first. Insurance adjusters are trained to use your statements against you.

7. Contact an Attorney

Call Attorney911 as soon as possible after the accident. We’ll send preservation letters to protect critical evidence and begin building your case.

Frequently Asked Questions About 18-Wheeler Accidents in City of Nevada

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in City of Nevada?

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in City of Nevada, 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. City of Nevada hospitals and trauma centers 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 in City of Nevada?

Document everything possible:

Truck and trailer license plates
DOT number (on the truck door)
Trucking company name and logo
Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
Photos of all vehicle damage
Photos of the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks
Photos of your injuries
Witness names and phone numbers
Responding officer’s name and badge number
Weather and road conditions

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

NO. Do not give any recorded statements. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests.

How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney in City of Nevada?

IMMEDIATELY – within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence in trucking cases (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in City of Nevada?

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.

What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in City of Nevada?

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

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

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in City of Nevada?

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 City of Nevada?

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 City of Nevada?

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
Moderate cases: 12-24 months
Complex cases with multiple parties: 2-3 years
Cases that go to trial: 3-5 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys. We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way if necessary.

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

NO. We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

How much insurance do trucking companies carry?

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:

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

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

What if multiple insurance policies apply to my accident?

Trucking cases often involve multiple policies:

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

We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.

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

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

Real Client Experiences

At Attorney911, we’re proud of the relationships we build with our clients. Here’s what some of our City of Nevada clients have said about working with us:

“They treated me like FAMILY, not just another case number. When I was rear-ended by an 18-wheeler, I thought my life was over. But the team at Attorney911 got right to work and I got a very nice settlement.”
— Mongo Slade, Attorney911 Client

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them. They make you feel like you’re the only case they’re working on, even though I know they have many clients.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

“One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
— Donald Wilcox, Attorney911 Client

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved. The process took some time, but they made it feel like a breeze. I’m so grateful for their hard work.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

“Ralph Manginello is indeed the best attorney I ever had. He cares greatly about his results and his clients. I couldn’t have asked for better representation.”
— Amaziah A.T., Attorney911 Client

“Mr. Maginello and his firm are first class. Will fight tooth and nail for you. They made a difficult situation much easier to handle.”
— Ernest Cano, Attorney911 Client

“Mr. Manginello guided me through the whole process with great expertise… tenacious, accessible, and determined throughout the 19 months. I couldn’t have asked for better representation.”
— Jamin Marroquin, Attorney911 Client

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer… Ralph reached out personally. I felt supported every step of the way.”
— Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client

“In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out. I’m so grateful they took my case when others wouldn’t.”
— Greg Garcia, Attorney911 Client

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years. I can’t recommend them enough for anyone going through a difficult time after an accident.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client

“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day… it only took 6 months amazing. Their staff is incredible and really cares about their clients.”
— Chavodrian Miles, Attorney911 Client

“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, Attorney911 Client

Your Next Steps: Call Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in City of Nevada, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every day. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect their interests – you need someone protecting yours.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

We’ll:

Evaluate your case at no cost
Explain your legal rights
Send preservation letters to protect critical evidence
Begin building your case immediately
Fight for the maximum compensation you deserve

Remember: You pay nothing unless we win your case.

Our team is standing by 24/7 to help you through this difficult time. Don’t face the trucking company alone – let Attorney911 fight for you.

“When an 80,000-pound truck changes your family’s life forever, you need a lawyer who treats you like family. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 today.”

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.