18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in Richardson, Texas

If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Richardson, Texas, you need experienced legal representation that understands the unique challenges of trucking litigation. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for victims of catastrophic truck crashes across North Texas for over 25 years. Our Richardson 18-wheeler accident attorneys know the local highways, the aggressive tactics used by trucking companies, and how to maximize your recovery when an 80,000-pound truck changes your life forever.

Why Richardson Trucking Accidents Are Different

Richardson sits at the crossroads of some of Texas’s busiest freight corridors. The intersection of US-75 and President George Bush Turnpike sees heavy truck traffic daily, as do nearby I-30 and I-635. These highways connect Richardson to major distribution centers, manufacturing facilities, and the Port of Houston—creating a perfect storm for catastrophic truck crashes.

Richardson’s Dangerous Trucking Corridors

• US-75 (Central Expressway): A major north-south route carrying trucks between Dallas and Sherman, with heavy commuter traffic that creates dangerous mixing zones
• President George Bush Turnpike (SH 190): Connects Richardson to DFW International Airport and major warehousing districts, with high-speed truck traffic
• I-635 (LBJ Freeway): A critical east-west route with heavy truck traffic serving the Telecom Corridor and nearby distribution centers
• I-30: Connects Dallas to Fort Worth and points east, with significant truck traffic serving the growing logistics industry in North Texas
• SH 121 (Sam Rayburn Tollway): Another major tollway with heavy truck traffic serving Richardson’s business parks and corporate campuses

These highways see some of the highest truck traffic volumes in Texas, creating significant risks for Richardson residents. The mix of high-speed truck traffic with local commuter vehicles creates dangerous conditions, especially during rush hours and inclement weather.

Common Causes of Richardson 18-Wheeler Accidents

Our Richardson trucking accident lawyers have seen firsthand how these crashes happen on our local roads:

Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Truck drivers working for Richardson-based carriers or passing through our city often violate federal hours of service regulations. The FMCSA limits drivers to:

• 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• A maximum 14-hour on-duty window
• Mandatory 30-minute breaks after 8 hours of driving
• 60/70-hour weekly limits

Yet we routinely see drivers exceeding these limits, falsifying logbooks, or being pressured by carriers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules. On Richardson’s highways, fatigued drivers struggle to react to sudden traffic slowdowns, construction zones, or changing weather conditions.

Distracted Driving

With the proliferation of smartphones and in-cab technology, distracted driving has become a leading cause of Richardson truck accidents. Federal regulations (49 CFR § 392.82) prohibit hand-held phone use while driving, but many drivers ignore these rules. In Richardson’s congested corridors, even a momentary distraction can lead to catastrophic consequences.

Improper Maintenance and Brake Failures

Richardson’s trucking companies and independent owner-operators often cut corners on maintenance to save money. Brake failures account for 29% of all truck crashes, and we’ve seen numerous cases where:

• Worn brake pads weren’t replaced
• Brake adjustments weren’t performed
• Air brake systems developed leaks
• Critical components failed due to deferred maintenance

On Richardson’s hilly terrain and congested highways, properly maintained brakes are essential for safe operation.

Cargo Securement Failures

Improperly secured cargo causes rollovers, jackknifes, and debris spills on Richardson’s highways. Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) require specific securement methods for different cargo types, but many companies ignore these rules. We’ve handled cases involving:

• Shifting loads causing rollovers on US-75
• Debris spills on I-635 creating multi-vehicle pileups
• Overweight loads causing brake failures
• Improperly secured hazardous materials

Wide Turn Accidents

Richardson’s growing business districts and distribution centers create numerous intersections where trucks must make wide turns. These “squeeze play” accidents often trap smaller vehicles between the truck and the curb. We’ve seen numerous cases where:

• Trucks swing left before making right turns
• Drivers fail to check mirrors for vehicles in blind spots
• Inadequate turn signals fail to warn other drivers
• Poorly designed intersections force dangerous maneuvers

Underride Collisions

Some of the most horrific Richardson truck accidents involve underride collisions, where a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler. Federal regulations require rear impact guards (49 CFR § 393.86), but:

• Many guards are inadequate or improperly installed
• Side underride guards aren’t required (though they should be)
• Guards can fail at higher speeds
• Poor lighting makes trailers difficult to see at night

These crashes often result in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries.

Catastrophic Injuries in Richardson Truck Crashes

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception, in Richardson. The average passenger vehicle weighs about 4,000 pounds—an 80,000-pound truck is 20 times heavier. The force of impact is devastating.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

TBI is one of the most common and devastating injuries we see in Richardson trucking cases. The extreme forces involved can cause:

• Concussions (mild TBI)
• Contusions (brain bruising)
• Diffuse axonal injuries (shearing of brain tissue)
• Penetrating injuries (from debris or structural collapse)

Symptoms may include:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory problems and confusion
• Mood changes and depression
• Sleep disturbances
• Speech and language difficulties
• Cognitive impairment

Many Richardson TBI victims require lifelong care, with costs ranging from $85,000 to $3 million or more.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Spinal cord damage often results in permanent paralysis. The level of injury determines the extent of impairment:

• Cervical injuries (neck): Quadriplegia, loss of function in all four limbs
• Thoracic injuries (upper back): Paraplegia, loss of function in legs and lower body
• Lumbar injuries (lower back): Partial paralysis of legs

Richardson’s medical facilities like Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas and Medical City Dallas Hospital treat many of these catastrophic injuries, but the lifetime costs are staggering:

• Paraplegia: $1.1 million to $2.5 million
• Quadriplegia: $3.5 million to $5 million or more

Amputations

The crushing forces in Richardson truck crashes often result in traumatic amputations or require surgical amputation due to:

• Severe crush injuries
• Entrapment requiring amputation for extraction
• Burns requiring surgical removal
• Infections from open wounds

Amputees face:

• Initial surgery and hospitalization
• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000 each, with frequent replacements)
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Psychological counseling
• Home and vehicle modifications

Severe Burns

Fuel tank ruptures, hazmat spills, and electrical fires often cause severe burns in Richardson truck crashes. Burn injuries require:

• Immediate emergency treatment
• Multiple skin graft surgeries
• Long-term rehabilitation
• Psychological counseling
• Permanent scarring and disfigurement

Internal Organ Damage

The extreme forces in Richardson truck crashes can cause:

• Liver and spleen lacerations
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusions
• Internal bleeding
• Bowel and intestinal damage

These injuries often require emergency surgery and can be life-threatening.

Wrongful Death

When Richardson truck crashes prove fatal, surviving family members can pursue wrongful death claims. Texas law allows recovery for:

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

Why You Need a Richardson 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney

Trucking companies have teams of lawyers and insurance adjusters working to minimize your claim from the moment the accident happens. You need a Richardson trucking accident lawyer who knows how to fight back.

Our Richardson Trucking Accident Advantage

1. Local Knowledge: We know Richardson’s roads, courts, and judges. We understand the unique challenges of trucking cases in Dallas County and the North Texas region.

2. Insurance Defense Experience: Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers operate. We use this insider knowledge to maximize your recovery.

3. Immediate Evidence Preservation: We send spoliation letters within hours to preserve critical evidence like:

   • ECM/black box data
   • ELD logs
   • Dashcam footage
   • Maintenance records
   • Driver qualification files

4. Multi-Million Dollar Results: We’ve recovered millions for Richardson trucking accident victims, including cases against major carriers.

5. Federal Court Experience: Our attorneys are admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, essential for interstate trucking cases.

6. Bilingual Services: Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, serving Richardson’s diverse community.

What Our Richardson Trucking Accident Lawyers Do For You

When you hire Attorney911 after a Richardson 18-wheeler crash, we:

1. Investigate Immediately

   • Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
   • Obtain ECM/black box data before it’s overwritten
   • Secure dashcam and surveillance footage
   • Photograph the accident scene and vehicles
   • Interview witnesses before memories fade

2. Identify All Liable Parties

   • Truck driver
   • Trucking company/motor carrier
   • Cargo owner/shipper
   • Loading company
   • Truck/trailer manufacturer
   • Parts manufacturer
   • Maintenance company
   • Freight broker
   • Government entities (for road defects)

3. Prove Negligence

   • Hours of service violations
   • False log entries
   • Brake system deficiencies
   • Cargo securement failures
   • Drug/alcohol violations
   • Negligent hiring/training/supervision
   • Maintenance failures

4. Maximize Your Recovery

   • Economic damages (medical bills, lost wages)
   • Non-economic damages (pain and suffering)
   • Punitive damages (for gross negligence)
   • Future medical expenses
   • Loss of earning capacity

5. Handle All Communications

   • Deal with insurance companies
   • Negotiate with trucking company lawyers
   • Handle medical liens
   • Prepare for trial if necessary

Richardson Trucking Accident Case Examples

While we can’t discuss specific cases, we can share general examples of how Richardson trucking accident cases are resolved:

US-75 Rear-End Collision

A Richardson family was rear-ended by a fatigued truck driver on US-75 near the President George Bush Turnpike interchange. The driver had exceeded his hours of service limits and falsified his logbook. The crash resulted in:

• Traumatic brain injury to the mother
• Multiple fractures to the father
• Severe whiplash injuries to the children

Our investigation revealed:

• Hours of service violations (49 CFR § 395)
• False log entries (49 CFR § 395.8)
• Inadequate pre-trip inspection (49 CFR § 396.13)
• Negligent supervision by the carrier

The case settled for a confidential multi-million dollar amount that covered:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Home modifications for the TBI victim

I-635 Underride Collision

A Richardson resident was killed when her vehicle slid under the trailer of a truck making a lane change on I-635. The truck had:

• No side underride guards
• Inadequate rear impact guard
• Non-functioning clearance lights
• Poor reflective markings

Our investigation revealed:

• Failure to comply with rear impact guard requirements (49 CFR § 393.86)
• Inadequate vehicle inspection (49 CFR § 396)
• Driver qualification violations (49 CFR § 391)

The wrongful death case resulted in a significant settlement that provided for the victim’s family and helped change industry practices regarding underride protection.

President George Bush Turnpike Roll Over

A truck carrying steel coils rolled over on the President George Bush Turnpike near the US-75 interchange, spilling its load and causing a multi-vehicle pileup. Our investigation revealed:

• Improper cargo securement (49 CFR § 393.100-136)
• Overloaded trailer
• Worn tires
• Hours of service violations

The case resulted in a substantial recovery for multiple victims, including compensation for:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Multiple fractures
• Psychological trauma

What To Do After a Richardson 18-Wheeler Accident

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Richardson, take these steps to protect your rights:

1. Call 911 Immediately

• Report the accident and request police and emergency medical services
• Richardson Police Department and Dallas County Sheriff’s Office respond to crashes on our highways
• Request a police report—it’s essential evidence

2. Seek Medical Attention

• Even if you feel okay, get checked out at a Richardson hospital like:
  • Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas
  • Medical City Dallas Hospital
  • Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Richardson
• Adrenaline masks pain—many injuries don’t show symptoms immediately
• Medical records link your injuries to the accident

3. Document the Scene

• Take photos and videos of:
  • All vehicles involved (exterior and interior damage)
  • The accident scene (skid marks, debris, road conditions)
  • Your injuries
  • Street signs and traffic signals
  • Weather conditions
• Get contact information from witnesses
• Note the truck’s:
  • License plate number
  • DOT number (on the truck door)
  • Company name and logo
  • Driver’s name and CDL number

4. Don’t Give Statements

• Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
• Do NOT admit fault or apologize
• Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize your claim

5. Call a Richardson 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney

• Contact Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911
• We’ll send a preservation letter to protect evidence
• We’ll handle all communications with insurance companies
• We’ll start building your case right away

Richardson Trucking Accident Frequently Asked Questions

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

Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims. However, you should contact an attorney immediately—critical evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases.

How much is my Richardson trucking accident case worth?

Case values depend on:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of defendant’s negligence
• Available insurance coverage

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.

Will my Richardson trucking accident case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to court. Insurance companies know we’re willing to go to trial if necessary, which strengthens our negotiation position.

What if I was partially at fault for the Richardson truck accident?

Texas follows modified comparative negligence rules. You can recover damages as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How long does a Richardson trucking accident case take?

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.

What if the trucking company is based outside Texas?

Interstate trucking cases often involve federal regulations and can be filed in federal court. Our attorneys are admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas and handle cases throughout the country.

Can I sue the trucking company if the driver was an independent contractor?

Yes. Even if the driver is an independent owner-operator, the trucking company may be liable for:

• Negligent hiring
• Negligent training
• Negligent supervision
• Vicarious liability under certain circumstances

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

We identify all potentially liable parties and their insurance coverage. Even if the primary carrier goes bankrupt, other defendants (cargo owners, brokers, manufacturers) may have coverage.

How much does it cost to hire a Richardson 18-wheeler accident lawyer?

We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our fee comes from the settlement, not your pocket. We also advance all costs of investigation and litigation.

Richardson Trucking Accident Statistics

Richardson and the surrounding Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex have some of the highest truck accident rates in Texas:

• Truck Accident Rate: DFW has 1.5 times the national average for large truck crashes
• Fatalities: Texas leads the nation in truck crash fatalities, with DFW accounting for a significant portion
• Injuries: Over 12,000 people are injured in Texas truck crashes annually
• Richardson-Specific: US-75 and I-635 are among the most dangerous highways in Texas for truck accidents
• Causes: Fatigue (31%), speeding (22%), and brake failures (29%) are leading causes in North Texas
• Time of Day: Most Richardson truck crashes occur between 6 AM-9 AM and 3 PM-6 PM (rush hours)
• Weather: Wet roads contribute to 25% of Richardson truck accidents
• Cargo Spills: Richardson sees an average of 12 cargo spill incidents per year on our highways

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Richardson Trucking Case

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic truck crash in Richardson, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a fighter who knows how to go up against the trucking industry’s powerful legal teams.

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998. He has:

• Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts
• Handled cases against major carriers like Swift, Werner, and Schneider
• Litigated complex trucking cases in federal and state courts
• Secured justice for families devastated by truck crashes

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Tactics

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how trucking insurers:

• Evaluate claims
• Train adjusters to minimize payouts
• Use recorded statements against victims
• Delay and deny legitimate claims

Now he uses that knowledge to fight FOR you, not against you.

Immediate Evidence Preservation

We act fast to preserve critical evidence before it disappears:

• Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
• Demand immediate download of ECM/black box data
• Secure dashcam and surveillance footage
• Photograph vehicles before they’re repaired or scrapped
• Interview witnesses before memories fade

Aggressive Negotiation and Trial Preparation

We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know we’re willing to go to court if necessary, which gives us leverage in settlement negotiations. Our track record includes:

• Multi-million dollar settlements
• Significant verdicts in complex cases
• Successful outcomes against major carriers
• Maximum recoveries for catastrophic injuries

Local Richardson Knowledge

We know Richardson’s:

• Trucking corridors and accident hotspots
• Local courts and judges
• Medical facilities and specialists
• Traffic patterns and construction zones
• Weather conditions that affect truck safety

This local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case.

Compassionate Client Service

We treat our Richardson clients like family. You’ll have:

• Direct access to your attorney
• Regular case updates
• Compassionate support throughout the process
• A team that fights for your best interests

No Fee Unless We Win

You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Our fee comes from the settlement, not your pocket. We also advance all costs of investigation and litigation.

Richardson Trucking Accident Resources

Richardson Hospitals and Trauma Centers

• Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas: 8200 Walnut Hill Ln, Dallas, TX 75231
• Medical City Dallas Hospital: 7777 Forest Ln, Dallas, TX 75230
• Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Richardson: 302 University Blvd, Richardson, TX 75080
• UT Southwestern Medical Center: 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX 75390

Richardson Rehabilitation Facilities

• Pate Rehabilitation – Dallas: 2655 Villa Creek Dr #145, Dallas, TX 75234
• Centre for Neuro Skills: 12700 Hillcrest Rd #200, Dallas, TX 75230
• Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Richardson: 3355 Waterview Pkwy, Richardson, TX 75080

Richardson Police and Emergency Services

• Richardson Police Department: 140 N Greenville Ave, Richardson, TX 75081
• Dallas County Sheriff’s Office: 133 N Riverfront Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207
• Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): 1001 S Sherman St, Richardson, TX 75081

Richardson Legal Resources

• Dallas County District Attorney’s Office: 133 N Riverfront Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207
• Dallas County Courts: 600 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75202
• U.S. District Court – Northern District of Texas: 1100 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75242

Richardson Trucking Safety Organizations

• Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): 4777 E Highway 80, Mesquite, TX 75150
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): 819 Taylor St, Fort Worth, TX 76102
• Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA): Regional office serving Texas

Contact Our Richardson 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Richardson, Texas, don’t wait—critical evidence is disappearing every hour. Call Attorney911 now for a free consultation.

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 https://attorney911.com

We offer:
✅ Free consultations
✅ No fee unless we win
✅ 24/7 availability
✅ Immediate evidence preservation
✅ Aggressive representation against trucking companies

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Don’t let the trucking company’s lawyers push you around. Call Attorney911—the Richardson trucking accident lawyers who fight like your future depends on it, because it does.