18-Wheeler Accidents in Denton County: Your Legal Emergency Guide

Every year, thousands of families across Texas face life-changing devastation when an 80,000-pound commercial truck collides with their vehicle. If you or someone you love has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Denton County, you’re not just dealing with another car crash – you’re facing a legal emergency that requires immediate action.

The Harsh Reality of Denton County Trucking Accidents

Denton County sits at the crossroads of some of Texas’s busiest trucking corridors. I-35 runs straight through the heart of the county, connecting the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex to Oklahoma and points north. US-380 and US-77 serve as critical east-west routes, while I-35E and the Dallas North Tollway handle massive volumes of freight moving through the region. These highways see:

• Over 12,000 commercial trucks passing through daily
• Peak traffic during morning and evening commutes
• Heavy freight movement from distribution centers in Lewisville, Denton, and The Colony
• Significant agricultural and oilfield equipment transport

The statistics paint a sobering picture. While large trucks make up only 4% of registered vehicles in Texas, they’re involved in 12% of all fatal crashes. In Denton County alone, trucking accidents cause:

• An average of 15 fatalities per year
• Over 200 serious injuries annually
• Millions in property damage
• Life-altering consequences for families across the county

Why Denton County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Denton County’s unique geography and economic activity create specific risks:

1. Urban-Rural Transition Zones: Areas like Argyle, Corinth, and southern Denton see sudden transitions from high-speed rural highways to urban traffic patterns, creating dangerous conditions for trucks and passenger vehicles alike.

2. Distribution Hub Activity: Major warehouses and distribution centers along I-35 and near DFW Airport generate concentrated truck traffic, increasing accident risks in areas like Lewisville and The Colony.

3. University Traffic: UNT and TWU campuses in Denton create unique traffic patterns with student drivers sharing roads with commercial trucks.

4. Seasonal Variations: Agricultural harvests and holiday shopping seasons create peak trucking periods with increased fatigue and schedule pressure.

5. Construction Zones: Ongoing infrastructure projects on I-35 and other major routes create temporary hazards that require special attention from truck drivers.

The Most Dangerous Trucking Accident Types in Denton County

Our firm has handled hundreds of trucking cases across North Texas, and we see these accident types most frequently in Denton County:

Jackknife Accidents on I-35 and US-380

The long, straight stretches of I-35 between Denton and Lewisville are prime locations for jackknife accidents, especially during wet weather or sudden traffic slowdowns. When a truck driver brakes suddenly on these high-speed corridors, the trailer can swing out perpendicular to the cab, sweeping across multiple lanes of traffic.

Common Causes in Denton County:

• Sudden braking for traffic backups near the I-35/380 interchange
• Wet pavement from North Texas thunderstorms
• Overcorrection when trucks drift onto rumble strips
• Brake failures from deferred maintenance
• Speeding through construction zones

What We Look For:

• Skid mark patterns showing trailer swing
• ECM data showing brake application timing
• Weather conditions at the time of the crash
• Driver’s hours of service records
• Maintenance history for the braking system

Underride Collisions at Busy Intersections

Denton County’s growing population has created more signalized intersections where passenger vehicles and commercial trucks interact. Underride collisions – where a car slides underneath a trailer – are particularly deadly and occur most often at:

• I-35 and University Drive in Denton
• I-35 and FM 428 in Corinth
• US-380 and I-35E in Lewisville
• Dallas North Tollway and FM 423

Why They’re So Deadly:

• The trailer’s height often shears off the top of passenger vehicles
• Occupants suffer catastrophic head and neck injuries
• Airbags may not deploy properly
• First responders often find fatalities at the scene

Federal Underride Guard Requirements:
While federal law requires rear underride guards on most trailers, there’s no federal requirement for side underride guards – despite side underride collisions being just as deadly. This regulatory gap costs hundreds of lives each year.

Rollovers on Highway Ramps and Curves

Denton County’s highway interchanges create dangerous conditions for top-heavy commercial trucks:

• I-35 and Loop 288 in Denton
• I-35 and US-380 interchange
• Dallas North Tollway ramps
• I-35E and FM 1171 in Lewisville

Common Causes:

• Taking exit ramps at excessive speed
• Improperly secured cargo shifting on curves
• Liquid loads sloshing in tankers
• Tire blowouts during lane changes
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reactions

What Makes Them Catastrophic:

• Rollover accidents often involve multiple vehicles
• Cargo spills can create secondary hazards
• The truck may block all lanes of traffic
• Fuel spills create fire and explosion risks

Rear-End Collisions on Congested Highways

Denton County’s highways experience severe congestion during peak travel times, creating perfect conditions for rear-end collisions:

• I-35 between Lewisville and Denton
• Dallas North Tollway during rush hour
• US-380 between Denton and McKinney
• I-35E through Lewisville

Why Trucks Can’t Stop in Time:

• A fully loaded 18-wheeler needs 525 feet to stop from 65 mph
• That’s nearly two football fields of stopping distance
• Passenger cars need only 300 feet to stop from the same speed
• This 40% difference means trucks can’t avoid obstacles that cars could

Common Causes:

• Following too closely (tailgating)
• Driver distraction from dispatch communications
• Brake failures from poor maintenance
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reactions
• Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Denton County Trucking Cases

The sheer size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles means injuries are often catastrophic:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

TBI occurs when the brain impacts the inside of the skull due to sudden acceleration/deceleration forces. In Denton County trucking accidents, we commonly see:

• Mild TBI (Concussion): Headaches, confusion, memory problems, mood changes
• Moderate TBI: Extended unconsciousness, cognitive deficits, personality changes
• Severe TBI: Permanent coma, vegetative state, lifelong disability

Why They’re Common in Trucking Accidents:

• Extreme forces from high-speed impacts
• Multiple impacts from secondary collisions
• Lack of proper head restraints in many vehicles
• Occupants striking interior surfaces

Lifetime Costs:

• Mild TBI: $85,000-$3 million
• Moderate TBI: $900,000-$4 million
• Severe TBI: $3 million-$10 million+

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

The spinal cord carries signals between the brain and body. When damaged, the results are often permanent:

• Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
• Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
• Incomplete Injuries: Some nerve function remains
• Complete Injuries: Total loss of sensation and movement

Common in Denton County Cases:

• Rollovers causing spinal compression
• Underride collisions severing the spinal cord
• Rear-end collisions causing whiplash trauma
• Jackknife accidents with multiple impacts

Lifetime Costs:

• Paraplegia: $1.1 million-$2.5 million
• Quadriplegia: $3.5 million-$5 million+

Amputations

The crushing forces in trucking accidents often result in traumatic amputations or require surgical removal of limbs:

• Traumatic Amputations: Limbs severed at the scene
• Surgical Amputations: Limbs removed due to severe damage
• Upper Limb Amputations: Arms, hands, fingers
• Lower Limb Amputations: Legs, feet, toes

Common Causes in Denton County:

• Underride collisions crushing limbs
• Rollovers with crushing injuries
• Entrapment requiring amputation for extraction
• Severe burns requiring surgical removal

Ongoing Needs:

• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000 each)
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Home modifications
• Psychological counseling
• Lost earning capacity

Severe Burns

Trucking accidents often result in fires and explosions, causing severe burns:

• First Degree: Superficial, heals without scarring
• Second Degree: Blisters, may require skin grafts
• Third Degree: Full thickness, requires skin grafts
• Fourth Degree: Extends to muscle and bone

Common Causes in Denton County:

• Fuel tank ruptures and fires
• Hazmat cargo spills and ignition
• Electrical fires from damaged wiring
• Friction burns from road contact
• Chemical burns from cargo leaks

Treatment Challenges:

• Multiple reconstructive surgeries
• Skin graft procedures
• Infection risks
• Chronic pain management
• Psychological trauma

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident claims a life, surviving family members can pursue wrongful death claims. In Denton County, we’ve represented families who lost loved ones in:

• Underride collisions at intersections
• Rollovers on I-35
• Jackknife accidents on US-380
• Rear-end collisions during rush hour
• Tire blowouts causing loss of control

Damages Available in Texas:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

The Trucking Companies Operating in Denton County

Denton County sees truck traffic from some of the largest and most dangerous carriers in the industry:

National Carriers with Denton County Operations

1. Swift Transportation – Major presence with terminals in the DFW area
2. Werner Enterprises – Significant operations serving North Texas
3. J.B. Hunt – Major intermodal operations through the region
4. Schneider National – Large terminal operations
5. Heartland Express – Significant freight movement
6. Landstar System – Major carrier with local agents
7. C.R. England – Refrigerated freight specialist
8. Prime Inc. – Large refrigerated and flatbed operations

Regional and Local Carriers

• Central Freight Lines (Fort Worth-based)
• AAA Cooper Transportation (serving Denton County)
• Averitt Express (North Texas operations)
• Old Dominion Freight Line (Lewisville terminal)
• Estes Express Lines (local presence)
• FedEx Freight (multiple DFW terminals)
• UPS Freight (regional operations)

Specialized and Hazardous Material Carriers

• Groendyke Transport (tanker operations)
• Trimac Transportation (bulk tanker)
• Maverick Transportation (specialized freight)
• Celadon (formerly, now defunct but legacy cases remain)
• Various oilfield service companies

Why This Matters for Your Case

These carriers maintain:

• $1 million to $5 million in liability insurance
• Rapid-response teams to protect their interests
• Legal departments focused on minimizing claims
• Safety records that often show patterns of negligence

The Critical Evidence in Your Denton County Trucking Case

Evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. If you’ve been injured in a Denton County trucking accident, here’s what we need to preserve immediately:

Electronic Data That Must Be Preserved

1. ECM/Black Box Data

   • Speed before and during the crash
   • Brake application timing
   • Throttle position
   • Engine RPM
   • Cruise control status
   • Fault codes

2. ELD (Electronic Logging Device) Records

   • Driver’s hours of service
   • Duty status changes
   • GPS location history
   • Driving time violations
   • Rest break compliance

3. GPS/Telematics Data

   • Real-time location tracking
   • Speed history
   • Route information
   • Driver behavior monitoring

4. Cell Phone Records

   • Text messages
   • Call logs
   • App usage
   • Distraction evidence

5. Dashcam Footage

   • Forward-facing video
   • Cab-facing video
   • Audio recordings
   • Event-triggered recordings

Driver and Company Records

1. Driver Qualification File

   • Employment application
   • Driving record
   • Previous employer verification
   • Medical certification
   • Drug test results
   • Training records

2. Hours of Service Records

   • Paper logs (if used)
   • ELD data
   • Dispatch records
   • Fuel receipts
   • Toll records

3. Maintenance Records

   • Pre-trip inspection reports
   • Post-trip inspection reports
   • Annual inspection records
   • Repair orders
   • Parts replacement history
   • Brake adjustment records

4. Cargo Documentation

   • Bill of lading
   • Cargo manifest
   • Weight tickets
   • Securement documentation
   • Hazmat documentation (if applicable)

Physical Evidence

1. The Truck and Trailer

   • Damage patterns
   • Underride guard condition
   • Brake system condition
   • Tire condition
   • Lighting condition

2. Cargo

   • Securement devices
   • Load distribution
   • Cargo condition
   • Hazmat containers (if applicable)

3. Accident Scene Evidence

   • Skid marks
   • Debris patterns
   • Road conditions
   • Traffic control devices
   • Surveillance footage

The FMCSA Violations We Find in Denton County Cases

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations exist to protect the public. When trucking companies violate these rules, they put everyone at risk. These are the most common violations we find in Denton County trucking accident cases:

Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395)

1. 11-Hour Driving Limit

   • Drivers operating beyond 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
   • Common on I-35 hauls between Dallas and Oklahoma

2. 14-Hour Duty Window

   • Drivers operating beyond 14 consecutive hours on duty
   • Often seen in local delivery operations

3. 30-Minute Break Rule

   • Failure to take required 30-minute break after 8 hours driving
   • Common in time-sensitive freight operations

4. 60/70-Hour Weekly Limits

   • Drivers exceeding 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
   • Seen in long-haul operations with tight schedules

5. False Log Entries

   • Drivers falsifying ELD or paper log records
   • Companies encouraging or condoning false logs

Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391)

1. Unqualified Drivers

   • Drivers operating without valid CDLs
   • Drivers with suspended or revoked licenses
   • Drivers without proper endorsements

2. Incomplete Driver Qualification Files

   • Missing employment applications
   • Lack of background checks
   • Missing medical certifications
   • No previous employer verification

3. Medical Certification Issues

   • Drivers operating without current medical certificates
   • Drivers with disqualifying medical conditions
   • Expired medical certifications

4. Drug and Alcohol Violations

   • Positive drug tests
   • Refusals to test
   • Drivers operating under the influence

Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396)

1. Brake System Deficiencies

   • Worn brake pads/shoes
   • Improper brake adjustment
   • Air brake system leaks
   • Brake fade on long descents

2. Tire Failures

   • Worn or bald tires
   • Underinflated tires
   • Mismatched dual tires
   • Aged tires beyond safe lifespan

3. Lighting Violations

   • Non-functioning headlights
   • Missing or broken turn signals
   • Inoperative brake lights
   • Missing reflectors

4. Cargo Securement Failures

   • Inadequate tiedowns
   • Improper load distribution
   • Failure to use blocking/bracing
   • Overloaded vehicles

Operational Violations (49 CFR Part 392)

1. Following Too Closely

   • Tailgating passenger vehicles
   • Insufficient following distance for conditions

2. Speeding

   • Exceeding posted speed limits
   • Driving too fast for conditions
   • Speeding through construction zones

3. Distracted Driving

   • Cell phone use while driving
   • Texting while driving
   • Dispatch communication distractions

4. Fatigued Driving

   • Operating while fatigued
   • Falling asleep at the wheel
   • Microsleep episodes

5. Impaired Driving

   • Alcohol impairment
   • Drug impairment
   • Prescription medication misuse

The Legal Process for Your Denton County Trucking Case

If you’ve been injured in a Denton County trucking accident, here’s what to expect:

Step 1: Immediate Action (First 48 Hours)

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention immediately – even if injuries seem minor
• Document the scene with photos and videos
• Collect information from the truck driver and witnesses
• Do NOT give statements to insurance adjusters
• Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate help

Step 2: Evidence Preservation (Days 1-7)

• We send spoliation letters to preserve all evidence
• We obtain ECM/black box data before it’s overwritten
• We secure ELD records showing hours of service
• We obtain driver qualification files
• We collect maintenance records
• We interview witnesses before memories fade

Step 3: Investigation (Weeks 1-4)

• Accident reconstruction to determine what happened
• Medical evaluation to document your injuries
• Economic analysis of your damages
• Insurance coverage investigation
• Liability determination of all potentially responsible parties
• Expert retention for specialized analysis

Step 4: Demand and Negotiation (Months 1-6)

• We prepare a comprehensive demand package
• We calculate all economic and non-economic damages
• We negotiate with insurance companies and defendants
• We reject lowball settlement offers
• We prepare for litigation if necessary

Step 5: Litigation (If Needed)

• We file a lawsuit in the appropriate Denton County court
• We conduct discovery to obtain additional evidence
• We take depositions of key witnesses
• We file motions to strengthen your case
• We prepare for trial

Step 6: Resolution

• Settlement through negotiation or mediation
• Trial if fair settlement cannot be reached
• Appeals if necessary

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Denton County Trucking Case

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident in Denton County, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a legal emergency response team. Here’s why families across North Texas trust Attorney911:

1. Ralph Manginello’s 25+ Years of Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. His experience includes:

• Securing multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements
• Handling complex trucking cases against major carriers
• Representing clients in federal court (Southern District of Texas)
• Involvement in landmark cases like the BP Texas City explosion litigation

2. Our Insurance Defense Advantage

Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working inside the system. He knows exactly how insurance companies:

• Evaluate claims
• Train adjusters to minimize payouts
• Use software like Colossus to undervalue cases
• Deny legitimate claims
• Pressure victims to accept lowball offers

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

3. Our Proven Track Record in Trucking Cases

We’ve recovered millions for Denton County families in trucking accident cases, including:

• $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
• $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement
• $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
• Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases

Our case results demonstrate our ability to hold trucking companies accountable and secure maximum compensation for our clients.

4. Our Local Knowledge of Denton County

We know Denton County’s:

• Trucking corridors – I-35, US-380, Dallas North Tollway, I-35E
• Courts – Denton County Courts at Law, District Courts, Federal Court
• Judges – Their preferences, tendencies, and expectations
• Juries – What arguments resonate with Denton County residents
• Local experts – Accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, economists

This local knowledge gives us an edge in building strong cases for Denton County families.

5. Our Aggressive Evidence Preservation Protocol

We act immediately to preserve critical evidence:

• Spoliation letters sent within 24-48 hours
• ECM/black box data downloaded immediately
• ELD records secured before they’re overwritten
• Truck and trailer preserved for inspection
• Witness statements taken while memories are fresh
• Surveillance footage obtained from nearby businesses

6. Our Comprehensive Approach to Trucking Cases

We investigate every aspect of your case:

• Driver negligence – Speeding, distraction, fatigue, impairment
• Company negligence – Hiring, training, supervision, scheduling
• Vehicle defects – Brake failures, tire blowouts, lighting issues
• Cargo issues – Improper loading, securement failures
• Road conditions – Poor design, inadequate signage
• Regulatory violations – FMCSA, state, and local regulations

7. Our Commitment to Client Communication

We treat our clients like family:

• Direct access to your attorney
• Regular case updates
• Clear explanations of legal processes
• Compassionate support during difficult times
• Assistance with medical care coordination

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

8. Our Contingency Fee Structure

You pay nothing unless we win your case:

• No upfront costs
• No hourly fees
• No retainers
• We advance all case expenses
• Our fee comes from the settlement, not your pocket

What Your Denton County Trucking Case Is Worth

The value of your case depends on several factors:

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)

1. Medical Expenses

   • Emergency room treatment
   • Hospitalization
   • Surgeries
   • Rehabilitation
   • Physical therapy
   • Medications
   • Medical equipment
   • Future medical care

2. Lost Wages

   • Income lost during recovery
   • Reduced earning capacity
   • Lost benefits
   • Lost career opportunities

3. Property Damage

   • Vehicle repair or replacement
   • Personal property damage

4. Other Economic Losses

   • Home modifications
   • Transportation costs
   • Household services

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)

1. Pain and Suffering

   • Physical pain from injuries
   • Emotional distress
   • Mental anguish

2. Loss of Enjoyment of Life

   • Inability to participate in activities
   • Loss of hobbies
   • Reduced quality of life

3. Disfigurement

   • Scarring
   • Permanent injuries
   • Amputations

4. Loss of Consortium

   • Impact on marriage
   • Loss of companionship
   • Loss of intimacy

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence)

In cases of extreme recklessness or intentional misconduct, Texas law allows punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct.

Texas Punitive Damages Cap:
The greater of:

• 2x economic damages + non-economic damages (capped at $750,000), OR
• $200,000

The Denton County Trucking Corridors We Know Best

Our firm has extensive experience with trucking accidents on these Denton County routes:

I-35 – The Deadly North-South Corridor

Running through the heart of Denton County, I-35 is one of the most dangerous trucking routes in Texas. We’ve handled cases involving:

• Jackknife accidents near the I-35/380 interchange
• Rear-end collisions during rush hour congestion
• Rollover accidents on exit ramps
• Tire blowouts causing loss of control
• Underride collisions at signalized intersections

Danger Zones:

• I-35 between Lewisville and Denton
• I-35/380 interchange
• I-35 and University Drive in Denton
• I-35 and Loop 288 in Denton
• I-35 near the Dallas North Tollway interchange

US-380 – The High-Speed East-West Route

US-380 sees heavy truck traffic moving between Denton and McKinney. We’ve handled cases involving:

• High-speed rear-end collisions
• Jackknife accidents on wet pavement
• Rollover accidents on curves
• Tire failures from heat and wear
• Driver fatigue on long hauls

Danger Zones:

• US-380 between Denton and McKinney
• US-380 and I-35 interchange
• US-380 near the Dallas North Tollway
• US-380 through Cross Roads

Dallas North Tollway – The Congested Urban Route

The Dallas North Tollway handles significant truck traffic serving distribution centers and businesses. We’ve handled cases involving:

• Rear-end collisions during rush hour
• Lane change accidents in heavy traffic
• Underride collisions at intersections
• Brake failures on descents
• Driver distraction in urban environments

Danger Zones:

• Dallas North Tollway between Lewisville and Plano
• Dallas North Tollway and FM 423 interchange
• Dallas North Tollway and US-380 interchange
• Dallas North Tollway and I-35E interchange

I-35E – The Alternative North-South Route

I-35E serves as an alternative to I-35 through Lewisville and The Colony. We’ve handled cases involving:

• Rollover accidents on exit ramps
• Jackknife accidents during sudden stops
• Tire blowouts from heavy loads
• Driver fatigue on long hauls
• Cargo securement failures

Danger Zones:

• I-35E through Lewisville
• I-35E and FM 1171 interchange
• I-35E near the Dallas North Tollway
• I-35E and US-380 interchange

Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Denton County Trucking Accident

1. Not Calling the Police

   • Always call 911 and file an official report
   • The police report is critical evidence
   • Officers document the scene and interview witnesses

2. Not Seeking Immediate Medical Attention

   • Adrenaline masks pain – injuries may not be immediately apparent
   • Delaying treatment gives insurance companies ammunition
   • Medical records document your injuries

3. Giving Recorded Statements to Insurance Adjusters

   • Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company
   • Anything you say can be used against you
   • Never give a statement without consulting an attorney

4. Posting on Social Media

   • Insurance companies monitor social media
   • Even innocent posts can be misinterpreted
   • Stay off social media until your case is resolved

5. Accepting a Quick Settlement Offer

   • First offers are always lowball offers
   • You may have injuries that aren’t immediately apparent
   • Once you accept, you waive your right to additional compensation

6. Not Preserving Evidence

   • Take photos of the scene, vehicles, and injuries
   • Get contact information from witnesses
   • Save all medical records and bills

7. Not Contacting an Attorney Immediately

   • Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases
   • The sooner we get involved, the stronger your case will be
   • We can preserve evidence before it’s lost or destroyed

What to Do Right Now

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Denton County 18-wheeler accident:

1. Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911
2. Do NOT give statements to insurance companies
3. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan
4. Document everything related to your injuries and recovery
5. Save all medical records and bills
6. Avoid discussing your case with anyone but your attorney

“Every hour you wait, evidence in your Denton County 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.”

Our Promise to Denton County Families

At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through. We’ve helped hundreds of Texas families recover from catastrophic trucking accidents, and we’re ready to help you too.

When you choose Attorney911, you get:

• 25+ years of experience fighting trucking companies
• A former insurance defense attorney on your side
• Aggressive evidence preservation to protect your case
• Local knowledge of Denton County courts and juries
• Compassionate support during this difficult time
• A commitment to maximum compensation for your injuries

We treat our clients like family because that’s what you become when you trust us with your case. We’ll fight for every dollar you deserve, whether through negotiation or in the courtroom.

Frequently Asked Questions About Denton County Trucking Accidents

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Denton County?

Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. This means you have two years from the date of the accident to file a 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.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

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

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Even if the driver was an independent contractor, both the driver and the trucking company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from all responsible parties.

How much insurance coverage 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

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

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, their insurance company is still responsible for paying claims. We know how to pursue all available insurance coverage to maximize your recovery.

Can I access the trucking company’s safety record?

Yes. The 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 if the truck’s dashcam recorded the accident?

Dashcam footage can be powerful evidence in your case. We immediately demand preservation of all video evidence from the trucking company.

How long does a trucking accident case take to resolve?

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.

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.

What if I don’t speak English?

Hablamos Español. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.

Don’t Let the Trucking Company Win

Trucking companies have teams of lawyers working to protect their interests. They’ll try to:

• Minimize your injuries
• Blame you for the accident
• Pressure you to accept a lowball settlement
• Destroy evidence that proves their negligence

You need someone on your side who knows their tactics and how to fight back. At Attorney911, we level the playing field and fight for the compensation you deserve.

“The trucking company has lawyers. So should you. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We answer 24/7.”

Your Fight Starts with One Call

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Denton County 18-wheeler accident, your fight for justice starts with one phone call. We’re here to help you navigate this difficult time and secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll evaluate your case, explain your rights, and help you understand your legal options.

“Don’t wait. Evidence disappears fast. Call Attorney911 NOW at 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer 24/7, and we’re ready to fight for you.”

Our Denton County trucking accident attorneys are standing by to help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.