18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Wilmer, Texas

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident on Wilmer’s highways, you need experienced legal representation that understands both the complexities of trucking litigation and the unique challenges faced by Wilmer residents. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we’re ready to put that experience to work for you.

Why Wilmer Trucking Accidents Require Specialized Legal Help

Wilmer sits at a critical junction in Dallas County, where major trucking corridors intersect. The I-45 corridor running through Wilmer sees heavy commercial traffic, as do the surrounding highways that connect to major distribution centers and industrial facilities in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. This high volume of truck traffic means Wilmer residents face elevated risks of catastrophic accidents.

Unlike typical car accidents, 18-wheeler crashes involve:

Multiple liable parties (driver, trucking company, cargo owner, maintenance provider)
Complex federal trucking regulations (FMCSA)
Massive insurance policies ($750,000-$5,000,000+)
Catastrophic injuries (TBI, spinal cord damage, amputations)
Aggressive insurance company tactics

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Wilmer

Our team has handled numerous trucking cases in Wilmer and throughout Dallas County. These are the most common causes we see:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Truck drivers often face pressure from their employers to meet tight delivery deadlines. This leads to violations of federal hours of service regulations, which limit drivers to:

11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
14-hour on-duty window after coming on duty
30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
60/70-hour weekly limits

In Wilmer, we frequently see drivers violating these rules to make deliveries to nearby distribution centers or to continue through the DFW metroplex without proper rest.

Improper Maintenance and Brake Failures

Wilmer’s location along major trucking routes means many trucks pass through with deferred maintenance. Common maintenance failures include:

Worn brake pads or shoes
Improper brake adjustments
Air brake system leaks
Tire blowouts from underinflation or excessive wear

These maintenance issues are particularly dangerous on Wilmer’s highways where traffic patterns can change rapidly.

Cargo Securement Violations

Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, causing:

Rollovers on curves and ramps
Jackknife accidents when cargo shifts suddenly
Spilled cargo creating road hazards

Wilmer’s proximity to major distribution centers means we see many accidents involving improperly loaded trailers.

Distracted and Impaired Driving

Despite strict federal regulations, some truck drivers still:

Use cell phones while driving
Text or use dispatch devices
Drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Operate while fatigued or medically impaired

These violations are particularly dangerous on Wilmer’s busy highways where passenger vehicles share the road with large commercial trucks.

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Wilmer

If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Wilmer, take these critical steps:

Call 911 immediately – Report the accident and request medical assistance
Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries don’t appear immediately
Document the scene – Take photos of all vehicles, injuries, road conditions, and skid marks
Get driver and company information – Collect the truck driver’s name, CDL number, and trucking company details
Obtain witness information – Get names and contact information from any witnesses
Do NOT give statements to insurance adjusters – Insurance companies work for the trucking company, not you
Contact an experienced Wilmer trucking accident attorney immediately – Critical evidence disappears quickly

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Wilmer Trucking Case

25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience handling complex trucking accident cases. We’ve gone up against major trucking companies and secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for our clients.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers try to minimize claims. This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage in building your case and negotiating with insurance companies.

Immediate Evidence Preservation

We understand that critical evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve:

ECM/black box data
ELD records
Dashcam footage
Maintenance records
Driver qualification files
Cell phone records

Comprehensive Investigation Process

Our Wilmer trucking accident investigations include:

Accident reconstruction by expert engineers
Analysis of ECM and ELD data
Review of driver qualification files and training records
Inspection of maintenance and inspection records
Examination of cargo loading and securement practices
Investigation of the trucking company’s safety history

Local Knowledge of Wilmer and Dallas County

We know Wilmer’s trucking corridors, including:

I-45 corridor through Wilmer
Highway 175 (C.F. Hawn Freeway)
Interstate 20 to the north
Highway 310 (South R.L. Thornton Freeway)
Local roads serving distribution centers

This local knowledge helps us build stronger cases for Wilmer residents.

Types of Trucking Accidents We Handle in Wilmer

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when a truck’s trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic. These are particularly dangerous on Wilmer’s highways where high speeds and sudden traffic slowdowns create ideal conditions for jackknifes.

Underride Collisions

Underride accidents happen when a smaller vehicle slides underneath a truck’s trailer. These are among the most deadly types of trucking accidents, often resulting in catastrophic head and neck injuries. Wilmer’s mix of local traffic and high-speed commercial trucks creates significant underride risks.

Rollover Accidents

Truck rollovers occur when a truck tips onto its side or roof. These accidents are common in Wilmer when trucks:

Take curves too quickly
Have improperly secured cargo
Experience tire blowouts
Drive on uneven road surfaces

Rear-End Collisions

Due to their massive weight, 18-wheelers require significantly more stopping distance than passenger vehicles. A fully loaded truck traveling at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields. When truck drivers follow too closely or fail to maintain their brakes, rear-end collisions often result.

Wide Turn Accidents

Trucks need extra space to make turns, often swinging wide before turning right. This creates dangerous situations where vehicles can become trapped between the truck and the curb. Wilmer’s industrial areas see many of these accidents.

Blind Spot Accidents

Trucks have significant blind spots, particularly on the right side. When truck drivers fail to check these blind spots before changing lanes or turning, serious accidents can occur. The high traffic volume on Wilmer’s highways increases these risks.

Catastrophic Injuries from Wilmer Trucking Accidents

The size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles means trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries, including:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when the brain is injured by sudden trauma. In trucking accidents, this can happen from:

Striking the steering wheel or dashboard
Being struck by cargo or debris
Violent whiplash movements

TBI can result in permanent cognitive impairment, personality changes, and lifelong disability.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord damage can cause:

Paraplegia (paralysis from the waist down)
Quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs)
Incomplete injuries with partial paralysis

These injuries often require lifelong medical care and assistance with daily activities.

Amputations

Severe accidents can result in traumatic amputations or require surgical amputation of limbs. Amputations create permanent disability and require:

Prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000+ each)
Physical and occupational therapy
Home modifications
Psychological counseling

Severe Burns

Trucking accidents can cause severe burns from:

Fuel tank ruptures and fires
Chemical cargo spills
Electrical fires
Friction burns from road contact

Burn injuries often require multiple surgeries, skin grafts, and extensive rehabilitation.

Internal Organ Damage

The force of trucking accidents can cause:

Liver lacerations
Spleen damage
Kidney injuries
Lung contusions
Internal bleeding

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

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents prove fatal, surviving family members may bring wrongful death claims to recover:

Lost future income and benefits
Loss of companionship and guidance
Mental anguish
Funeral expenses
Medical expenses before death

Holding All Responsible Parties Accountable

In trucking accident cases, multiple parties may share liability for your injuries:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be liable for:

Speeding or reckless driving
Distracted driving
Fatigued driving
Impaired driving
Failure to conduct proper inspections

The Trucking Company

The trucking company may be liable through:

Vicarious liability for the driver’s actions
Negligent hiring of unqualified drivers
Negligent training of drivers
Negligent supervision of drivers
Negligent maintenance of vehicles
Negligent scheduling that pressures drivers to violate HOS rules

Cargo Owners and Loaders

Companies that own or load the cargo may be liable for:

Improper cargo securement
Overloading vehicles
Failing to disclose hazardous cargo
Pressuring carriers to meet unsafe deadlines

Maintenance Providers

Third-party maintenance companies may be liable for:

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

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for:

Defective brake systems
Defective tires
Defective steering components
Defective safety systems

Freight Brokers

Freight brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

Negligent selection of unsafe carriers
Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
Failure to check carrier safety records

The Attorney911 Difference for Wilmer Residents

Personal Attention from Experienced Attorneys

Unlike large firms where you’re just another case number, at Attorney911 you’ll work directly with our experienced attorneys. Ralph Manginello personally oversees every case, and our team is available to answer your questions and address your concerns throughout the process.

Proven Track Record of Results

Our firm has recovered millions for trucking accident victims, including:

$5+ million for a brain injury case
$3.8+ million for an amputation case
$2.5+ million for a trucking accident case
Millions for families in wrongful death cases

Federal Court Experience

We’re admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, which is critical for handling interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court.

Bilingual Services for Wilmer’s Hispanic Community

Wilmer has a significant Hispanic population, and our team includes Spanish-speaking attorneys and staff. We can communicate directly with Spanish-speaking clients without the need for interpreters, ensuring clear communication and building trust.

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 risk to you
We advance all case expenses

What Your Wilmer Trucking Accident Case Is Worth

The value of your case depends on several factors:

Economic Damages

Past and future medical expenses
Lost wages and earning capacity
Property damage
Out-of-pocket expenses
Life care costs for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages

Pain and suffering
Mental anguish
Loss of enjoyment of life
Disfigurement
Physical impairment
Loss of consortium

Punitive Damages

In cases involving gross negligence or willful misconduct, punitive damages may be available to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct.

The Legal Process for Your Wilmer Trucking Case

Initial Consultation

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

Review the details of your accident
Explain your legal rights and options
Answer your questions
Provide honest assessment of your case

Investigation

We immediately begin investigating your case by:

Sending spoliation letters to preserve evidence
Obtaining police reports
Collecting witness statements
Securing ECM/black box data
Reviewing ELD records
Examining maintenance and inspection records
Analyzing driver qualification files

Medical Treatment

We help you get the medical care you need by:

Connecting you with appropriate medical providers
Ensuring proper documentation of your injuries
Monitoring your treatment progress
Coordinating with your healthcare providers

Demand and Negotiation

Once your medical treatment is complete, we:

Calculate the full value of your claim
Prepare a comprehensive demand package
Negotiate aggressively with the insurance company
Reject lowball settlement offers

Litigation

If we cannot reach a fair settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to court by:

Filing a lawsuit
Conducting discovery
Taking depositions
Presenting your case to a jury

Resolution

We work to resolve your case through:

Settlement negotiations
Mediation
Trial, if necessary

Common Questions About Wilmer Trucking Accidents

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

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. As long as you were 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 were 20% at fault, you would recover 80% of your damages.

How much is my Wilmer trucking accident case worth?

Every case is unique, but factors that affect case value include:

Severity of your injuries
Cost of your medical treatment
Impact on your ability to work
Pain and suffering
Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
Available insurance coverage

Will my case go to trial?

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

What if the trucking company claims they don’t have enough insurance?

Trucking companies are required to carry minimum insurance coverage of $750,000, and many carry $1 million or more. We investigate all possible sources of insurance coverage and pursue claims against all liable parties to maximize your recovery.

Can I still recover if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Yes. Even if the driver was an independent contractor, the trucking company may still be liable through:

Negligent selection of the contractor
Negligent supervision of the contractor
Vicarious liability in some circumstances

Contact Wilmer’s Trusted Trucking Accident Attorneys

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Wilmer, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Critical evidence is disappearing every day, and the trucking company’s insurance adjusters are already working to protect their interests – not yours.

“Every hour you wait, evidence in your Wilmer trucking accident case is disappearing. 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 consultation. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence.”

At Attorney911, we understand what Wilmer families are going through after a catastrophic trucking accident. We’re here to help you navigate the legal process, fight for the compensation you deserve, and hold the trucking company accountable for their negligence.

Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911 or contact us online for your free consultation.

Hablamos Español. Our team includes Spanish-speaking attorneys and staff ready to assist Wilmer’s Hispanic community.