18-Wheeler Accidents in Dallas County: Your Complete Legal Guide
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Dallas County, you’re facing one of the most complex legal challenges imaginable. The massive size and weight of commercial trucks create catastrophic injuries that change lives in an instant. At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for Dallas County families devastated by trucking accidents. Our team knows exactly how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.
Why Dallas County Trucking Accidents Are Different
Dallas County is a critical hub in America’s freight network. With major interstates like I-35, I-20, and I-30 crisscrossing our region, plus countless distribution centers and warehouses, our highways see some of the heaviest truck traffic in Texas. This creates unique risks:
- High truck volume means more opportunities for accidents
- Congested corridors like I-35 through downtown Dallas create dangerous conditions
- Distribution centers in areas like Hutchins and Lancaster generate constant truck traffic
- Construction zones frequently disrupt traffic flow, increasing accident risks
- Severe weather from North Texas thunderstorms to occasional ice creates hazardous driving conditions
The Dallas County legal system also has specific procedures and judges that handle trucking cases differently than standard car accidents. Our team knows these local courts, the judges, and the unique challenges of building a strong case in Dallas County.
The Devastating Impact of Dallas County Trucking Accidents
When an 80,000-pound 18-wheeler collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. We’ve seen firsthand how these accidents change lives:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The violent forces in a truck collision can cause severe brain trauma, even with airbag deployment. TBI can result in permanent cognitive impairment, memory loss, personality changes, and the need for lifelong care.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Truck accidents frequently cause spinal cord damage that leads to paralysis. Quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs) and paraplegia (loss of function in the lower body) require extensive medical care and home modifications.
Amputations: Crushing injuries often result in traumatic amputations at the scene or surgical amputations during treatment. Prosthetics and rehabilitation can cost millions over a lifetime.
Severe Burns: Fuel tank ruptures and cargo fires can cause third-degree burns requiring multiple skin graft surgeries and leaving permanent disfigurement.
Wrongful Death: When a loved one is killed in a Dallas County trucking accident, families face overwhelming grief and financial uncertainty. We help families pursue wrongful death claims to hold negligent parties accountable.
These injuries don’t just affect the victim – they impact entire families. Medical bills pile up while the injured person can’t work. Relationships strain under the pressure. Daily activities become impossible. That’s why we fight so aggressively for our Dallas County clients.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Dallas County
Our investigations reveal that most Dallas County trucking accidents are preventable and caused by violations of federal safety regulations. These are the most common causes we see:
Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations
Federal regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate to prevent fatigue-related accidents. The Hours of Service (HOS) rules include:
- 11-hour driving limit: Drivers can only drive 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
- 14-hour duty window: Drivers cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
- 30-minute break requirement: Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
- 60/70-hour weekly limits: Drivers cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
Why this matters in Dallas County: The pressure to meet delivery deadlines on routes like I-35 between Dallas and San Antonio leads many drivers to violate these rules. We’ve seen cases where drivers falsify their logs to hide HOS violations.
How we prove it: We obtain Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data that records driving time, GPS location, and duty status. This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.
Improper Cargo Loading and Securement
Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.100-136) establish strict cargo securement standards. Violations we frequently find include:
- Insufficient tiedowns (not enough or not strong enough)
- Improper load distribution causing instability
- Failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats
- Liquid cargo that shifts during transit
- Overweight loads exceeding vehicle capacity
Dallas County-specific risks: The numerous warehouses and distribution centers in our area mean many trucks are loaded locally. Improper loading at Dallas County facilities creates hazards on our highways.
Case example: We handled a case where a truck loaded at a Dallas County warehouse lost its cargo on I-20, causing a multi-vehicle pileup. Our investigation revealed the loading company failed to use proper securement methods.
Brake Failures and Maintenance Neglect
Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. Common brake-related issues include:
- Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
- Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
- Air brake system leaks or failures
- Contaminated brake fluid
- Overheated brakes (brake fade) on long descents
- Failure to conduct pre-trip brake inspections
49 CFR § 393.48 requirements: All commercial vehicles must have properly functioning brake systems with service brakes on all wheels and a parking/emergency brake system.
Dallas County terrain risks: The rolling hills of North Texas create opportunities for brake fade, especially on routes like I-30 toward Arkansas.
Distracted and Impaired Driving
Despite strict federal regulations, we still see cases involving:
- Cell phone use: 49 CFR § 392.82 prohibits hand-held mobile phone use while driving
- Texting: 49 CFR § 392.80 prohibits texting while driving
- Dispatch communications: Some drivers become distracted by in-cab messaging systems
- Drugs and alcohol: 49 CFR § 392.4 prohibits driving under the influence of any substance that impairs safe operation
Dallas County-specific challenges: The long stretches of highway in our area can lull drivers into complacency, increasing the temptation to use electronic devices.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Federal regulations (49 CFR § 392.6) prohibit motor carriers from scheduling runs that would require drivers to exceed speed limits. Common speed-related issues include:
- Following too closely (tailgating)
- Excessive speed for conditions (especially in Dallas County’s frequent rain)
- Failure to reduce speed in construction zones
- Aggressive lane changes without proper mirror checks
Why this is dangerous: At 65 mph, an 80,000-pound truck needs approximately 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases stopping distance.
The Trucking Company’s Playbook – And How We Counter It
When an 18-wheeler causes a catastrophic accident in Dallas County, the trucking company springs into action with a well-rehearsed playbook designed to protect their interests, not yours. Here’s what they do – and how we counter each tactic:
1. Rapid Response Teams Arrive Within Hours
What they do: Trucking companies dispatch rapid response teams to accident scenes. These teams include investigators, adjusters, and sometimes even lawyers. Their goal is to control the narrative, influence witnesses, and begin building their defense.
How we counter: We send our own investigators to the scene immediately. We preserve evidence before it disappears, interview witnesses before their memories fade, and document the scene thoroughly. We also send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours demanding that all evidence be preserved.
2. Lowball Settlement Offers Come Quickly
What they do: Insurance adjusters contact victims within days of the accident with quick settlement offers. These offers are always far below what your case is worth. They hope you’ll accept before you understand the full extent of your injuries.
How we counter: We advise all Dallas County clients NEVER to accept any settlement offer without consulting us first. We know how to evaluate the true value of your case, including future medical needs and lost earning capacity.
3. Blaming the Victim
What they do: Insurance companies and their lawyers will look for any way to shift blame to you. They’ll argue you were speeding, distracted, or somehow caused the accident.
How we counter: We gather objective evidence – ECM data, ELD records, dashcam footage, witness statements – that proves what really happened. Texas follows modified comparative negligence rules, so you can still recover as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault.
4. Destroying or Hiding Evidence
What they do: Trucking companies know that certain evidence can be devastating to their case. They may “lose” maintenance records, overwrite ECM data, or destroy dashcam footage.
How we counter: We send spoliation letters immediately demanding preservation of all evidence. If they destroy evidence after receiving our letter, courts can impose severe sanctions, including instructing the jury to assume the evidence was unfavorable to them.
5. Using Recorded Statements Against You
What they do: Insurance adjusters are trained to get you to give recorded statements that can be used against you. They’ll ask leading questions and try to get you to downplay your injuries.
How we counter: We advise all clients NEVER to give recorded statements without an attorney present. We handle all communications with the insurance company to protect your rights.
6. The “Pre-Existing Condition” Defense
What they do: If you had any prior medical issues, they’ll argue that your current injuries were pre-existing and not caused by the accident.
How we counter: Texas follows the “eggshell skull” doctrine – defendants take victims as they find them. We work with medical experts to prove how the accident aggravated pre-existing conditions.
7. Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring
What they do: Insurance companies hire private investigators to follow accident victims and monitor their social media accounts. They’re looking for any evidence that can be used to argue you’re not really injured.
How we counter: We advise all clients to be extremely careful about what they post on social media and to assume they’re being watched. We also expose any unfair surveillance tactics.
What to Do Immediately After a Dallas County Trucking Accident
The actions you take in the first 48 hours after an 18-wheeler accident in Dallas County can make or break your case. Follow these critical steps:
1. Call 911 and Report the Accident
- Request police and emergency medical services
- Dallas County has excellent trauma centers – let EMS transport you if they recommend it
- Insist on a police report – it’s essential evidence
2. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
- Adrenaline masks pain – you may have serious injuries you don’t feel yet
- Some injuries (like TBI or internal bleeding) may not show symptoms for hours or days
- Medical records create crucial evidence linking your injuries to the accident
- Dallas County hospitals like Parkland, Baylor University Medical Center, and Medical City Dallas are equipped to handle trauma cases
3. Document the Scene Thoroughly
- Take photos of all vehicles involved (including license plates)
- Photograph the accident scene from multiple angles
- Document road conditions, weather, skid marks, and traffic signals
- Get the truck’s DOT number (usually on the door)
- Take photos of the trucking company’s name and logo
- Get contact information for all witnesses
4. Preserve Critical Evidence
- Do NOT let the trucking company take possession of the truck or trailer
- Demand that they preserve all evidence (we’ll send a formal spoliation letter)
- The truck’s black box (ECM) data can be overwritten within days
- Dashcam footage may be deleted within a week
5. Contact an Experienced Dallas County Trucking Accident Attorney Immediately
- Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
- We’ll send a preservation letter to the trucking company within 24-48 hours
- We’ll begin our investigation immediately to preserve evidence
- We’ll handle all communications with insurance companies
- We’ll ensure you get the medical care you need
The Evidence We Gather to Build Your Dallas County Case
Winning a trucking accident case requires overwhelming evidence. Our team leaves no stone unturned in building the strongest possible case for our Dallas County clients:
Electronic Data
ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, throttle position, RPM, cruise control status, fault codes, and more. This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.
ELD Records: Electronic Logging Devices record hours of service, duty status, GPS location, and driving time. This proves whether the driver violated HOS regulations.
GPS/Telematics Data: Shows the truck’s route, speed, and location history. Can prove speeding, route deviations, or other violations.
Cell Phone Records: We subpoena cell phone records to prove distracted driving. Even hands-free use can be evidence of distraction.
Dispatch Records: Shows communications between the driver and company, including pressure to meet deadlines or violate regulations.
Driver Records
Driver Qualification File: Contains employment application, background check, driving record, medical certification, drug test results, and training records. Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.
Drug and Alcohol Test Results: Federal regulations require post-accident testing. Failed tests prove impairment.
Previous Employer Verification: We investigate the driver’s work history to uncover patterns of unsafe behavior.
Training Records: Shows whether the driver received proper training on safety procedures, hours of service, and cargo securement.
Vehicle Records
Maintenance Records: Documents all repairs and maintenance performed on the truck. Can reveal deferred maintenance or known defects.
Inspection Reports: Includes pre-trip, post-trip, and annual inspections. Can show whether the driver or company ignored known problems.
Tire Records: Shows tire age, tread depth, and replacement history. Can prove whether worn tires contributed to the accident.
Brake Inspection and Adjustment Records: Documents brake condition and adjustments. Can reveal whether brakes were improperly maintained.
Cargo Securement Documentation: Shows how the cargo was loaded and secured. Can prove whether improper loading caused the accident.
Company Records
Safety Policies and Procedures: We review the company’s safety manuals to see if they followed their own policies.
Safety Training Materials: Shows what safety training drivers received and whether it was adequate.
Supervision and Monitoring Records: Documents how the company supervised drivers and whether they addressed safety violations.
Previous Accident and Violation History: Reveals patterns of unsafe behavior that the company should have addressed.
CSA Scores: The FMCSA’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability scores show the company’s safety record. Poor scores can prove a pattern of negligence.
Accident Scene Evidence
Photographs and Video: We document the accident scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and injuries.
Witness Statements: We interview all witnesses to get their accounts of what happened.
Accident Reconstruction: We work with expert engineers to reconstruct how the accident occurred and prove liability.
Police Report: The official accident report contains crucial information about the crash.
Weather Data: We obtain weather records to document conditions at the time of the accident.
Roadway Design Analysis: We evaluate whether road design defects contributed to the accident.
Who Can Be Held Liable in Your Dallas County Trucking Accident
Unlike car accidents where usually only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple liable parties. Our team investigates every possible defendant to maximize your recovery:
1. The Truck Driver: Directly liable for negligent actions like speeding, distracted driving, or violating HOS regulations.
2. The Trucking Company/Motor Carrier: Liable under respondeat superior for the driver’s actions within the scope of employment. Also directly liable for:
- Negligent hiring (failing to check background)
- Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
- Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
- Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)
- Negligent scheduling (pressuring drivers to violate HOS)
3. The Cargo Owner/Shipper: Liable for:
- Providing improper loading instructions
- Failing to disclose hazardous cargo
- Requiring overweight loads
- Pressuring the carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
4. The Cargo Loading Company: Liable for:
- Improper cargo securement
- Unbalanced load distribution
- Exceeding weight ratings
- Failure to use proper blocking and bracing
5. The Truck and Trailer Manufacturer: Liable for:
- Design defects (unstable trailer design, poor brake placement)
- Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, defective components)
- Failure to warn of known dangers
6. The Parts Manufacturer: Liable for defective components like:
- Faulty brakes
- Defective tires
- Defective steering mechanisms
- Defective lighting components
7. The Maintenance Company: 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
8. The Freight Broker: 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
9. The Truck Owner (if different from carrier): Liable for:
- Negligent entrustment of the vehicle
- Failure to maintain owned equipment
- Knowledge of the driver’s unfitness
10. Government Entities: Liable in limited circumstances for:
- Dangerous road design
- Failure to maintain roads
- Inadequate signage
- Improper work zone setup
Dallas County-Specific Challenges in Trucking Cases
Dallas County presents unique challenges that require local expertise:
1. High Volume of Truck Traffic: With major interstates converging in Dallas County, truck accidents are unfortunately common. This means courts are familiar with these cases, but it also means insurance companies fight them aggressively.
2. Complex Local Court System: Dallas County has multiple courthouses and specialized divisions. Knowing which court to file in and understanding local procedures is crucial for success.
3. Aggressive Insurance Defense: Dallas County is home to many major insurance companies and their legal teams. These defense firms have extensive experience fighting trucking cases.
4. Diverse Jury Pool: Dallas County’s diverse population means jury selection is particularly important. We understand how to present your case effectively to different demographic groups.
5. Construction Zone Hazards: Dallas County has numerous ongoing construction projects that create dangerous conditions for truck drivers and other motorists.
6. Weather-Related Challenges: From sudden thunderstorms to occasional ice, Dallas County weather creates unique driving hazards that can contribute to trucking accidents.
7. High-Profile Cases: Some trucking accidents in Dallas County gain media attention. We know how to manage media relations while protecting your privacy.
The Dallas County Trucking Accident Legal Process
Our team guides Dallas County clients through every step of the legal process:
1. Free Initial Consultation: We meet with you to evaluate your case, explain your rights, and discuss your legal options. This consultation is completely free and confidential.
2. Immediate Evidence Preservation: We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve all evidence. We also begin our own investigation immediately.
3. Medical Care Coordination: We help you get the medical care you need, even if you don’t have insurance. We can connect you with doctors who will treat you on a lien basis.
4. Demand Letter: Once we understand the full extent of your injuries and damages, we send a comprehensive demand letter to the insurance company outlining your claim.
5. Negotiation: We negotiate aggressively with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement. Most cases settle at this stage.
6. Litigation (if necessary): If we can’t reach a fair settlement, we file a lawsuit and begin the discovery process. This includes depositions, document requests, and expert witness preparation.
7. Trial: While most cases settle before trial, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready if trial becomes necessary.
8. Resolution: Your case concludes with either a settlement or a jury verdict. We then work to ensure you receive your compensation promptly.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Dallas County Trucking Case
When your life has been devastated by an 18-wheeler accident in Dallas County, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team with the experience, resources, and determination to fight for you. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:
1. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience
Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. Our firm has handled hundreds of trucking cases against major commercial carriers. We know the trucking industry’s tactics and how to counter them.
2. Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff
Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.
3. Federal Court Experience
We’re admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is crucial for interstate trucking cases, which often involve federal regulations and can be filed in federal court.
4. Multi-Million Dollar Results
Our track record speaks for itself. We’ve recovered millions for Dallas County families devastated by trucking accidents. While past results don’t guarantee future outcomes, they demonstrate our ability to build strong cases and secure maximum compensation.
5. Dallas County Local Knowledge
We know Dallas County’s highways, distribution centers, and legal system. Our local knowledge gives us an advantage in building your case and presenting it effectively to Dallas County juries.
6. Comprehensive Investigation Team
We have investigators, accident reconstruction experts, and medical specialists ready to investigate your case immediately. We preserve evidence before it disappears and build the strongest possible case.
7. Bilingual Services
With Lupe Peña’s fluent Spanish and our bilingual staff, we can serve Dallas County’s Hispanic community directly without interpreters. Hablamos Español.
8. Contingency Fee Representation
You pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. This means you can afford top-quality legal representation regardless of your financial situation.
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.
10. Compassionate Client Care
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a catastrophic trucking accident takes on families. We treat every client like family and fight aggressively for the compensation you deserve.
Dallas County Trucking Accident Case Results
While every case is unique, our results demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:
- $37.5 million verdict for a Dallas County trucking accident victim
- Multi-million dollar settlement for a family whose loved one was killed in an 18-wheeler crash
- $2.5 million recovery for a Dallas County truck crash victim
- Millions recovered for families in wrongful death trucking cases
- Significant settlements for victims of underride collisions, rollover accidents, and jackknife crashes
These results reflect our commitment to fighting for maximum compensation for our Dallas County clients.
Dallas County Trucking Corridors and Accident Hotspots
Dallas County has several high-risk areas for trucking accidents:
I-35 Corridor: This major north-south route through Dallas County sees heavy truck traffic between Mexico and Canada. The stretch through downtown Dallas is particularly dangerous.
I-20 Corridor: Connecting Dallas to Fort Worth and points east, I-20 carries significant freight traffic. The interchange with I-635 is a known trouble spot.
I-30 Corridor: This route toward Arkansas sees heavy truck traffic, especially near the I-30/I-45 interchange.
I-635 (LBJ Freeway): This busy loop around Dallas carries both local and through traffic, including many trucks. The interchange with I-35 is particularly congested.
I-45 Corridor: Connecting Dallas to Houston, this route sees heavy truck traffic, especially near the I-45/I-30 interchange.
Distribution Centers: Areas like Hutchins and Lancaster have numerous warehouses and distribution centers that generate constant truck traffic.
Construction Zones: Dallas County always has multiple construction projects underway that create dangerous conditions for truck drivers and other motorists.
The True Cost of Your Dallas County Trucking Accident
When an 18-wheeler changes your life in an instant, the costs go far beyond immediate medical bills. We work to recover full compensation for all your damages:
Economic Damages:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Lost wages and benefits
- Lost earning capacity
- Property damage
- Home modifications
- Assistive devices
- Transportation costs
- Out-of-pocket expenses
Non-Economic Damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement
- Physical impairment
- Loss of consortium (for spouses)
- Loss of companionship (for children)
Punitive Damages:
In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, we may pursue punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct.
Dallas County Wrongful Death Trucking Accidents
When a trucking accident takes a loved one’s life, Dallas County law allows surviving family members to pursue wrongful death claims. We help families recover compensation for:
- Lost future income and benefits
- Loss of consortium (spousal relationship)
- Loss of parental guidance and nurturing
- Mental anguish and emotional suffering
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses before death
- Pain and suffering experienced by the decedent before death
- Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence
The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Texas is two years from the date of death, so it’s crucial to act quickly.
What Your Dallas County Trucking Accident Case Is Worth
Every case is unique, but several factors affect case value:
1. Severity of Injuries: More severe injuries generally result in higher case values. Catastrophic injuries like TBI, spinal cord damage, and amputations command the highest settlements.
2. Medical Expenses: Both past and future medical costs are recoverable. We work with medical experts to calculate future care needs.
3. Lost Income: We calculate both past lost wages and future lost earning capacity. For high-earning professionals, this can be a significant portion of damages.
4. Pain and Suffering: This non-economic damage is often the largest component of a trucking accident settlement. We work with experts to quantify this intangible loss.
5. Degree of Negligence: Cases involving clear negligence, multiple violations, or intentional misconduct result in higher settlements.
6. Available Insurance: Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits than typical drivers. We identify all available insurance coverage to maximize your recovery.
7. Jurisdiction: Dallas County juries have a history of awarding significant damages in trucking cases when negligence is proven.
While we can’t predict the exact value of your case without a thorough evaluation, trucking accident cases often settle for hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars, depending on these factors.
Dallas County Trucking Accident Statistics
Understanding the scope of the trucking accident problem in Dallas County helps put your case in context:
- National Context: Over 5,100 people die in truck crashes annually in the U.S., with 125,000+ injured
- Texas Context: Texas consistently leads the nation in trucking accident fatalities
- Dallas County Context: Dallas County sees hundreds of trucking accidents annually, with dozens resulting in serious injuries or fatalities
- Victim Profile: 76% of those killed in truck crashes are occupants of the smaller vehicle
- Common Causes: Driver fatigue (31%), speeding (23%), and distracted driving (8%) are leading causes
- Time of Day: Most fatal truck crashes occur between 6 AM and 3 PM
- Day of Week: Weekdays see more truck crashes than weekends due to commercial traffic patterns
These statistics underscore why trucking companies must be held accountable for safety violations.
Dallas County Trucking Companies We’ve Faced
Our team has experience litigating against major trucking companies that operate in Dallas County:
- Walmart trucking operations
- Coca-Cola distribution vehicles
- Amazon delivery trucks
- FedEx trucks
- UPS trucks
- Swift Transportation
- Werner Enterprises
- J.B. Hunt Transport
- Schneider National
- Heartland Express
- Numerous regional and local carriers
This experience gives us insight into how these companies operate and how to build the strongest possible case against them.
The Attorney911 Difference: Why We Get Better Results
1. We Prepare Every Case for Trial
While most cases settle, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready if trial becomes necessary. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.
2. We Have Insider Knowledge of Insurance Tactics
Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for maximum compensation for our clients.
3. We Move Fast to Preserve Evidence
We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve critical evidence. We know that black box data, ELD records, and dashcam footage can disappear quickly if not preserved immediately.
4. We Leave No Stone Unturned in Investigation
Our comprehensive investigation includes:
- ECM/Black box data analysis
- ELD record review
- Driver qualification file examination
- Maintenance record inspection
- Cargo securement documentation
- Accident reconstruction
- Witness interviews
- Company safety record review
5. We Fight for Every Dollar You Deserve
We never accept lowball settlement offers. We calculate the full value of your case, including future medical needs and lost earning capacity, and fight for maximum compensation.
6. We Treat You Like Family
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a catastrophic trucking accident takes on families. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and address your concerns. You’re not just a case number to us – you’re family.
Dallas County Trucking Accident Success Stories
While we can’t share confidential settlement details, here are some examples of how we’ve helped Dallas County clients:
The Underride Collision: A Dallas County family was devastated when their loved one was killed in an underride collision. The trucking company claimed the victim was at fault. Our investigation revealed the truck lacked proper underride guards. We secured a multi-million dollar settlement for the family.
The Fatigued Driver: A Dallas County resident suffered catastrophic injuries when a truck driver fell asleep at the wheel. The trucking company claimed the driver was properly rested. Our review of ELD records proved the driver had violated HOS regulations. We secured a substantial settlement that covered all medical expenses and future care needs.
The Improperly Loaded Truck: A Dallas County delivery driver was severely injured when an improperly loaded truck lost its cargo on the highway. The loading company claimed the cargo was properly secured. Our investigation revealed multiple securement violations. We secured compensation for the victim’s medical expenses and lost wages.
The Brake Failure: A Dallas County family lost a loved one when a truck’s brakes failed on a steep grade. The maintenance company claimed the brakes were in good condition. Our expert analysis proved the brakes were improperly adjusted. We secured a significant settlement for the family.
Dallas County Trucking Accident Resources
If you’ve been injured in a Dallas County trucking accident, these resources may help:
Dallas County Courts:
- Dallas County District Courts: Multiple locations handling civil cases
- Dallas County Justice of the Peace Courts: Handle smaller claims
Medical Facilities:
- Parkland Memorial Hospital: Level I trauma center
- Baylor University Medical Center: Major trauma and burn center
- Medical City Dallas: Comprehensive trauma services
- UT Southwestern Medical Center: Specialized care for complex injuries
Government Agencies:
- Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): Road condition information
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): Trucking company safety records
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): Vehicle safety information
Support Groups:
- Brain Injury Association of Texas
- Texas Spinal Cord Injury Association
- Amputee Coalition
- Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)
Dallas County Trucking Accident Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Dallas County?
Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene thoroughly, preserve evidence, and contact an experienced Dallas County trucking accident attorney immediately.
2. How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Dallas County?
The statute of limitations in Texas is two years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.
3. Who can be held liable in my Dallas County trucking accident case?
Multiple parties may be liable, including the truck driver, trucking company, cargo owner, loading company, truck manufacturer, parts manufacturer, maintenance company, freight broker, and government entities.
4. What evidence is most important in a trucking accident case?
The most critical evidence includes ECM/black box data, ELD records, driver qualification files, maintenance records, cargo securement documentation, accident scene photos, and witness statements.
5. How much is my Dallas County trucking accident case worth?
Case value depends on many factors, including injury severity, medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, degree of negligence, and available insurance. Trucking accident cases often settle for hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars.
6. Will my case go to trial?
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 if trial becomes necessary.
7. How long will my case take to resolve?
Timelines vary. Simple cases may settle in 6-12 months. Complex cases with multiple parties or severe injuries may take 1-3 years or longer.
8. What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?
Even if the driver was an independent contractor, both the driver and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.
9. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Texas follows modified comparative negligence rules. You can still recover as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
10. How much does it cost to hire a Dallas County trucking accident attorney?
We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.
11. What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, their insurance company is still liable for valid claims. We identify all available insurance coverage to maximize your recovery.
12. Can I still recover if the truck driver fled the scene?
Yes. We can help identify the truck and trucking company through witness statements, surveillance footage, and other evidence. We’ll pursue all available sources of compensation.
13. What if I don’t have health insurance?
We can help you get the medical care you need, even if you don’t have insurance. We can connect you with doctors who will treat you on a lien basis, meaning they’ll get paid when your case settles.
14. What if the trucking company’s insurance adjuster contacts me?
Do not speak with the insurance adjuster without consulting an attorney first. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim.
15. What if I already gave a statement to the insurance company?
That’s okay. Contact us immediately, and we’ll handle all future communications with the insurance company to protect your rights.
Your Next Steps: Protect Your Rights
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Dallas County, time is critical. Every hour you wait, evidence disappears and your case becomes harder to prove.
Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free consultation.
We’ll:
- Evaluate your case and explain your legal options
- Send a preservation letter to protect critical evidence
- Begin our investigation immediately
- Handle all communications with insurance companies
- Ensure you get the medical care you need
- Fight aggressively for the compensation you deserve
Don’t wait. Evidence disappears fast. Call now: 1-888-ATTY-911
Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.
Attorney911 – Fighting for Dallas County’s Trucking Accident Victims
“When an 80,000-pound truck changes your life in an instant, you need more than a lawyer – you need a fighter. At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years holding trucking companies accountable for their negligence. We know their tactics, we know their weaknesses, and we know how to win. If you’ve been hurt in a Dallas County trucking accident, call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer 24/7, and we fight for every dollar you deserve.” – Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner
Free Consultation • No Fee Unless We Win • 24/7 Availability
1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) • ralph@atty911.com • https://attorney911.com