Fatal 18-Wheeler and Tractor-Trailer Crashes in Fort Worth: What Families Need to Know in the First 48 Hours

The freight corridors that feed Fort Worth’s economy—Interstate 35W, Interstate 20, Interstate 30, and the sprawling network of state highways and farm-to-market roads—carry more than goods. They carry the risk of catastrophic crashes that change families forever. When an 80,000-pound tractor-trailer collides with a passenger vehicle on these roads, the physics of the impact leave little room for survival. The Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS) documents this reality every year: in 2024 alone, Tarrant County recorded 28,074 crashes, 149 of them fatal. Many of those fatalities involved commercial vehicles.

If you’re reading this because someone you love was killed in a crash with an 18-wheeler, semi-truck, or tractor-trailer in Fort Worth, the legal and procedural clock has already started. Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003 gives you exactly two years from the date of the fatal injury to file a wrongful death action. That clock doesn’t pause for grief, for funeral arrangements, or for the carrier’s insurance adjuster to return your calls. The carrier’s legal team began working the night of the crash. The evidence they control—the electronic logging device (ELD), the dashcam footage, the maintenance records—is at risk of disappearing every day that passes without action.

We’ve represented families in Fort Worth and across Texas in these cases for more than 23 years. Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, has been licensed since 1998 and admitted to federal court in the Southern District of Texas. Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years on the other side, working for insurance defense firms and learning how carriers value claims. We know the playbook because we’ve written parts of it. Now we use that knowledge to fight for families like yours.

The Reality of a Fatal Big-Rig Crash in Fort Worth

Fort Worth’s position in North Texas places it at the crossroads of some of the busiest freight corridors in the country. Interstate 35W, which runs through the heart of the city, is part of the NAFTA superhighway, carrying cross-border freight from Laredo to the Midwest. Interstate 20 connects Fort Worth to the Permian Basin, where oilfield service trucks haul water, sand, and equipment to drilling sites. Interstate 30 links the city to the Gulf Coast, where petrochemical tankers move hazardous materials through refinery corridors. These aren’t just roads—they’re the arteries of Texas commerce, and they’re saturated with commercial traffic.

When a fatal crash occurs on one of these corridors, the investigation begins immediately. The Fort Worth Police Department, Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office, or Texas Department of Public Safety will respond, depending on the location. The scene is documented, witnesses are interviewed, and the truck is inspected. But here’s what most families don’t realize: the carrier’s insurance company has already assigned an adjuster to the case, and that adjuster’s first priority isn’t your family’s well-being. It’s minimizing the carrier’s exposure.

The First 48 Hours: What Happens and What You Need to Do

The first two days after a fatal crash are critical. Evidence is fresh, memories are clear, and the carrier’s records are still intact. But this is also the window when the most evidence is at risk of disappearing.

1. Preservation of Evidence

Within hours of a serious crash, we send a preservation letter to the motor carrier, the freight broker, the shipper, and any third-party telematics provider. This letter identifies the specific evidence that must be preserved:

• The truck’s electronic control module (ECM), which records speed, braking, and other critical data
• The electronic logging device (ELD) under 49 C.F.R. Part 395, which tracks the driver’s hours of service
• Dashcam footage, including forward-facing and driver-facing cameras
• Dispatch communications and routing records
• Qualcomm or PeopleNet telematics data, which provides real-time GPS tracking
• Maintenance records under 49 C.F.R. Part 396, including pre-trip inspections and brake-system checks
• The driver’s qualification file under 49 C.F.R. § 391.51, including prior employment history and medical certification
• Prior preventability determinations, which show whether the carrier ignored past violations
• Post-accident drug and alcohol screens under 49 C.F.R. § 382.303
• Any Form MCS-90 endorsement on the carrier’s insurance policy, which guarantees payment to injured third parties even if the policy would otherwise exclude coverage

We put the carrier on notice that spoliation of evidence—the intentional or negligent destruction of records—will be argued in court, and we will seek an adverse inference charge if any of this evidence disappears. By the time the defense files its answer, the record is locked.

2. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Records

Before discovery formally opens, we pull two critical records from the FMCSA:

• The Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP) report on the driver, which includes the driver’s crash and inspection history from the past five years
• The carrier’s Safety Measurement System (SMS) profile, which tracks the carrier’s performance in seven Behavior Analysis and Safety Improvement Categories (BASICs):
  • Unsafe Driving
  • Hours-of-Service Compliance
  • Driver Fitness
  • Controlled Substances/Alcohol
  • Vehicle Maintenance
  • Hazardous Materials Compliance
  • Crash Indicator

These records tell us whether the carrier had a pattern of violations that contributed to the crash. For example, if the carrier’s Hours-of-Service BASIC score was in the alert category, it means the carrier had a documented history of allowing drivers to exceed federal driving limits. That pattern supports a claim for negligent hiring, retention, or supervision under Texas common law.

3. Accident Reconstruction

We deploy an accident reconstruction expert to the scene as soon as possible. This expert will:

• Document the physical evidence, including skid marks, debris fields, and vehicle damage
• Analyze the event data recorder (EDR) from the truck, which records speed, braking, and other critical data in the seconds before impact
• Reconstruct the sequence of events to determine how the crash occurred
• Assess whether federal regulations were violated, such as:
  • 49 C.F.R. § 392.14: Requires commercial drivers to exercise caution in hazardous conditions (e.g., rain, fog, ice)
  • 49 C.F.R. § 392.22: Requires drivers to activate hazard lights when stopped on the roadway
  • 49 C.F.R. § 392.80: Prohibits texting while driving
  • 49 C.F.R. § 392.82: Prohibits handheld phone use while driving

The reconstruction report becomes a cornerstone of the case, especially if the carrier claims the crash was unavoidable.

4. Medical Documentation

If your loved one survived the initial impact but later died from their injuries, we work with the treating physicians to document:

• The cause of death (e.g., traumatic brain injury, internal hemorrhage, sepsis from infection)
• The conscious pain and suffering your loved one endured between the injury and death, which is compensable under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 71.021 (the survival action)
• The medical expenses incurred before death, which are also recoverable in the survival action

For families, this documentation is often the most difficult part of the process. We handle it with the care and respect your loved one deserves.

The Legal Framework: What Texas Law Provides for Surviving Families

Texas law gives surviving families two distinct claims after a fatal crash:

1. Wrongful Death Claim (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 71.001 et seq.)
2. Survival Action (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 71.021)

These claims are separate, and each has its own damages categories. The wrongful death claim is held by the surviving spouse, children, and parents of the deceased. The survival action is held by the estate of the deceased and compensates for the pain and suffering your loved one endured before death.

Wrongful Death Claim (§ 71.004)

Under § 71.004, the following family members can bring a wrongful death claim:

• Surviving spouse
• Children (including adult children)
• Parents (including adoptive parents)

Each of these family members holds an independent claim, meaning the carrier cannot settle with one family member and assume the case is over. For example, if the deceased was a parent, both the surviving spouse and the children have separate claims. If the deceased was a child, both parents have separate claims.

Damages in a wrongful death claim include:

• Pecuniary loss: The financial support the deceased would have provided to the family (e.g., lost wages, benefits, household services)
• Loss of companionship and society: The emotional loss of the deceased’s love, guidance, and companionship
• Mental anguish: The emotional pain and suffering endured by the surviving family members
• Loss of inheritance: The amount the deceased would have saved and left to the family if they had lived a normal lifespan

Survival Action (§ 71.021)

The survival action compensates for the damages the deceased would have been able to recover if they had survived. These damages include:

• Conscious pain and suffering between the injury and death
• Medical expenses incurred before death
• Funeral and burial expenses

The survival action is brought by the estate of the deceased, and the damages are distributed according to the deceased’s will or Texas intestacy laws.

The Two-Year Clock (§ 16.003)

Both the wrongful death claim and the survival action are subject to a two-year statute of limitations under § 16.003. This means you have exactly two years from the date of the fatal injury to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, the case is barred forever.

The clock starts running the day of the crash, not the day of the funeral, not the day the autopsy report is released, and not the day the police report is finalized. The carrier’s insurance company knows this deadline and will use it to their advantage. They may delay negotiations, hoping you’ll miss the deadline. Do not let this happen.

Comparative Negligence (§ 33.001)

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule under § 33.001. This means that if your loved one was partially at fault for the crash, your recovery will be reduced by their percentage of fault. However, if your loved one was 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.

For example:

• If your loved one was 30% at fault, your recovery is reduced by 30%.
• If your loved one was 50% at fault, your recovery is reduced by 50%.
• If your loved one was 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.

The carrier will almost always argue that your loved one was partially at fault. They may claim your loved one was speeding, failed to yield, or was distracted. We anticipate these arguments and develop evidence to push fault back where it belongs—on the carrier.

Punitive Damages (§ 41.003)

If the carrier’s conduct was grossly negligent, you may be entitled to punitive (exemplary) damages under § 41.003. Gross negligence requires clear and convincing evidence that the carrier acted with objective awareness of an extreme risk and subjective disregard for that risk.

Examples of gross negligence in trucking cases include:

• Hours-of-service violations: Allowing a driver to exceed federal driving limits (11 hours of driving in a 14-hour window, 70 hours in 8 days)
• Falsified logs: The driver’s ELD shows compliance, but other records (e.g., fuel receipts, toll records, GPS data) show the driver was on duty when the log claims they were off duty
• Prior preventability determinations: The carrier ignored past violations by the same driver
• Negligent hiring: The carrier hired a driver with a history of DUI, reckless driving, or hours-of-service violations
• Negligent maintenance: The carrier failed to inspect or repair the truck’s brakes, tires, or other critical systems

Punitive damages are not capped if the underlying conduct was a felony. For example, if the driver was charged with intoxication manslaughter (a felony), there is no cap on punitive damages. This is a critical distinction because punitive damages in Texas are otherwise capped at the greater of:

• $200,000, or
• Two times the amount of economic damages plus up to $750,000 in non-economic damages

The Stowers Doctrine: The Nuclear Option for Clear-Liability Cases

The Stowers Doctrine (G.A. Stowers Furniture Co. v. American Indem. Co., 15 S.W.2d 544 (Tex. 1929)) is one of the most powerful tools in Texas personal injury law. It applies when:

1. The claim is within the scope of the carrier’s insurance coverage;
2. The plaintiff makes a settlement demand within policy limits;
3. The terms of the demand are such that an ordinarily prudent insurer would accept it; and
4. The insurer unreasonably refuses the demand.

If these conditions are met, the insurer becomes liable for the entire verdict, even if it exceeds the policy limits.

For example, if the carrier’s policy limits are $1 million and we make a demand for $1 million with a full release, but the insurer refuses, and the jury later awards $5 million, the insurer is on the hook for the full $5 million—not just the $1 million policy limit.

Lupe Peña understands Stowers demands because he used to evaluate them for insurance companies. Now he uses that knowledge to force carriers to settle cases they would otherwise fight.

HB 19 and Chapter 72: How Texas Changed Trucking Trials

In 2021, the Texas Legislature passed House Bill 19, codified in Chapter 72 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code. This law fundamentally changed how trucking trials work in Texas. On the carrier’s motion, the trial must be bifurcated into two phases:

1. Phase One: The jury decides whether the driver was negligent and what compensatory damages the plaintiff is entitled to.
2. Phase Two: If the plaintiff prevails in Phase One, the jury decides whether the carrier is liable for direct negligence (e.g., negligent hiring, retention, supervision) and whether the plaintiff is entitled to exemplary damages.

The defense strategy is obvious: keep the carrier’s hiring file, training records, and prior preventability determinations out of Phase One. Our strategy is to build a Phase One record so airtight that Phase Two becomes inevitable. We do this by:

• Developing evidence of the carrier’s direct negligence before trial
• Ensuring the jury sees the full scope of the carrier’s misconduct
• Making it impossible for the carrier to argue that the driver was solely responsible

Chapter 72 didn’t eliminate carrier accountability in Texas. It just changed when the jury sees it.

The Carrier’s Defense Playbook: What They’ll Do and How We Counter It

The carrier’s defense lawyer has a script. We’ve read it before we walk into the courtroom. Here’s what they’ll argue and how we counter it:

1. “The crash was unavoidable.”

• Their argument: The driver did everything right, but the crash was caused by road conditions, weather, or the actions of another driver.
• Our counter:
  • Accident reconstruction shows whether the driver was speeding, following too closely, or failed to brake in time.
  • ELD data shows whether the driver was fatigued or violated hours-of-service rules.
  • Dashcam footage shows whether the driver was distracted or failed to react appropriately.
  • Maintenance records show whether the truck’s brakes, tires, or other systems were properly inspected.

2. “Your loved one was partially at fault.”

• Their argument: Your loved one was speeding, failed to yield, or was distracted.
• Our counter:
  • Texas follows modified comparative negligence under § 33.001. Even if your loved one was 50% at fault, you can still recover.
  • We develop evidence to push fault back where it belongs—on the carrier. For example:
    • If the driver was fatigued, we argue that the carrier’s hours-of-service violations contributed to the crash.
    • If the truck’s brakes failed, we argue that the carrier’s negligent maintenance contributed to the crash.
    • If the driver was distracted, we argue that the carrier’s failure to enforce its own policies contributed to the crash.

3. “Your loved one’s injuries pre-existed the crash.”

• Their argument: Your loved one had back problems, heart conditions, or other pre-existing conditions that weren’t caused by the crash.
• Our counter:
  • The eggshell skull doctrine applies: the defendant takes the plaintiff as they find them. If the crash worsened a pre-existing condition, the carrier is liable for the aggravation.
  • We work with medical experts to document the difference between the pre-existing condition and the injuries caused by the crash.

4. “You waited too long to see a doctor.”

• Their argument: Your loved one didn’t seek medical treatment immediately, so their injuries must not be serious.
• Our counter:
  • Adrenaline masks pain. It’s common for crash victims to feel fine immediately after the impact, only to develop symptoms days or weeks later.
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) often don’t show up on initial CT scans. Symptoms like headaches, memory loss, and personality changes can take weeks to appear.
  • We document the delayed onset of symptoms and tie them to the crash.

5. “The evidence was destroyed.”

• Their argument: The ELD data, dashcam footage, or other evidence was overwritten or lost.
• Our counter:
  • We send a preservation letter within 24 hours of taking the case. This puts the carrier on notice that spoliation will be argued.
  • We file a motion for adverse inference if evidence is destroyed. This allows the jury to assume the missing evidence would have been harmful to the carrier.

6. “The driver was an independent contractor, not our employee.”

• Their argument: The driver was an independent contractor, so the carrier isn’t liable for their actions.
• Our counter:
  • We use the three tests to defeat the independent contractor defense:
    1. ABC Test: The worker is presumed an employee unless the carrier proves:
       • The worker is free from the carrier’s control;
       • The work is outside the carrier’s usual course of business; and
       • The worker is customarily engaged in an independently established business.
         Most trucking contractors fail prong B—the work of hauling freight is the carrier’s business.
    2. Economic Reality Test: We examine the degree of control the carrier exercises, the worker’s opportunity for profit or loss, and whether the work is integral to the carrier’s business.
    3. Right-to-Control Test: We look at whether the carrier retains the right to control how the work is done (e.g., setting routes, schedules, delivery quotas).
  • We also look at whether the carrier provides uniforms, branded trucks, or other equipment, which are hallmarks of an employment relationship.

The Defendant Universe: Who We Sue Beyond the Driver

In a fatal trucking case, the driver is often the least exposed defendant. The real liability lies with the entities behind the driver:

1. The Motor Carrier: The company that hired the driver and is responsible for their conduct under respondeat superior.
2. The Freight Broker: The company that arranged the load. Under cases like Miller v. C.H. Robinson, brokers can be liable for negligent selection of an unsafe carrier.
3. The Shipper: The company that directed the loading or scheduling of the truck. If the shipper directed an unsafe load or an unrealistic schedule, they can be liable.
4. The Maintenance Contractor: The company responsible for inspecting and repairing the truck. If the truck’s brakes, tires, or other systems failed, the maintenance contractor may be liable.
5. The Parts Manufacturer: The company that manufactured a defective part (e.g., brakes, tires, steering system). If a defective part contributed to the crash, the manufacturer can be liable under strict product liability.
6. The Road Designer or Government Entity: If the crash was caused by a defective roadway (e.g., missing guardrails, potholes, inadequate signage), the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) or the municipality may be liable under the Texas Tort Claims Act.
7. The Parent Corporation: If the carrier is a subsidiary, the parent corporation may be liable under alter-ego or single-business-enterprise doctrine.
8. The Cargo Loader: If the cargo was improperly loaded or secured, the company that loaded the cargo may be liable.

We name every potentially liable party in the lawsuit. The carrier counts on plaintiffs’ counsel who stop at the driver. We start at the corporate parent and work down.

Damages: What Your Family Can Recover Under Texas Law

Texas law provides for multiple categories of damages in a wrongful death and survival action. Each category is submitted to the jury under the Texas Pattern Jury Charges (PJC).

Wrongful Death Damages (§ 71.004)

1. Pecuniary Loss: The financial support the deceased would have provided to the family. This includes:
   • Lost wages and benefits
   • The value of household services (e.g., childcare, cooking, cleaning)
   • Loss of inheritance (the amount the deceased would have saved and left to the family)
2. Loss of Companionship and Society: The emotional loss of the deceased’s love, guidance, and companionship.
3. Mental Anguish: The emotional pain and suffering endured by the surviving family members.

Survival Action Damages (§ 71.021)

1. Conscious Pain and Suffering: The physical and emotional pain the deceased endured between the injury and death.
2. Medical Expenses: The cost of medical treatment before death.
3. Funeral and Burial Expenses: The cost of funeral and burial services.

Punitive Damages (§ 41.003)

If the carrier’s conduct was grossly negligent, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These are designed to punish the carrier and deter similar conduct in the future.

Calculating Damages: The Role of Experts

We work with a team of experts to calculate the full value of your claim:

• Life Care Planners: Develop a detailed plan for the deceased’s future medical and care needs.
• Economists: Calculate the present value of lost wages, benefits, and household services.
• Vocational Experts: Assess the deceased’s earning capacity and career trajectory.
• Medical Experts: Document the deceased’s injuries, pain and suffering, and medical expenses.

These experts ensure that we present a comprehensive damages case to the jury.

The Insurance Company’s Playbook: How They’ll Try to Minimize Your Claim

Insurance companies follow predictable tactics to minimize payouts. Here’s what they’ll do and how we counter it:

1. Quick Lowball Settlement

• Their tactic: The adjuster calls within days of the crash and offers a small settlement.
• Our counter: First offers are always a fraction of the case’s true value. We never advise a client to sign a release in the first 96 hours. We calculate the full value of the claim before responding.

2. Recorded Statement Trap

• Their tactic: “We just need a quick recorded statement for our files.”
• Our counter: That statement will be used against you later. Never give a recorded statement without your attorney present.

3. Comparative Negligence

• Their tactic: “Your loved one was partially at fault—they were speeding / not wearing a seatbelt / changed lanes.”
• Our counter: Texas follows modified comparative negligence under § 33.001. Even if your loved one was 50% at fault, you can still recover. We develop evidence to push fault back where it belongs.

4. Pre-Existing Condition

• Their tactic: “Your loved one had back problems before this accident.”
• Our counter: The eggshell skull doctrine applies: the defendant takes the plaintiff as they find them. If the crash worsened a pre-existing condition, the carrier is liable for the aggravation.

5. Delayed Treatment Defense

• Their tactic: “Your loved one didn’t see a doctor for three weeks, so they must not be seriously hurt.”
• Our counter: Adrenaline masks pain. TBI symptoms can take days or weeks to appear. Delayed treatment does not mean no injury—and we have the medical evidence to prove it.

6. Spoliation (Evidence Destruction)

• Their tactic: ELD data, dashcam footage, and dispatch records “disappear.”
• Our counter: We file spoliation preservation letters within 24 hours of taking the case. Every black box record, ELD log, and maintenance file is locked down before they can “accidentally” delete them.

7. IME Doctor Selection

• Their tactic: The adjuster sends your loved one to an “independent” medical examiner who finds they aren’t as injured as they claim.
• Our counter: Lupe Peña hired these doctors when he worked for insurance defense firms. He knows the panel. We counter with the victim’s treating physicians and independent experts the carrier can’t impeach.

8. Surveillance

• Their tactic: Investigators photograph your loved one doing anything that looks “normal.”
• Our counter: Lupe’s insider quote applies here: “Insurance companies take innocent activity out of context, freeze one frame and ignore ten minutes of struggling before and after. They’re not documenting your life—they’re building ammunition against you.” We expose this in deposition.

9. Delay Tactics

• Their tactic: Drag the case past the statute of limitations, exhaust your resources, and force a low settlement.
• Our counter: We file the lawsuit early to force discovery. We set depositions. We make the carrier carry the cost of delay.

10. Drowning the Plaintiff in Paperwork

• Their tactic: Massive discovery requests designed to overwhelm an underfunded plaintiff’s counsel.
• Our counter: We staff the case appropriately and use motion practice to limit overbroad discovery while preserving every record we need.

The Colossus System: How Insurance Companies Algorithmically Value Your Claim

Most insurance companies use proprietary software—like Colossus, Liability Decision Manager, or Claim IQ—to algorithmically value bodily injury claims. The software ingests:

• Medical codes and treatment duration
• Injury type
• Geographic and demographic modifiers (e.g., the historical jury verdict pattern in the venue)
• The carrier’s internal guidelines

The software outputs a settlement range that the adjuster works within.

How Colossus Works Against You

1. Geographic Modifier: Colossus values claims partly based on the historical jury verdict pattern in the venue. Conservative counties produce lower modifier values. Plaintiff-friendly counties (like Harris or Dallas County) produce higher modifier values.
2. Medical Code Weighting: The software weights certain medical codes more heavily than others. For example, ICD-10 codes for traumatic brain injury (TBI) and spinal cord injury carry higher values than codes for soft-tissue injuries.
3. Treatment Duration: Longer treatment durations trigger higher values, but only if the treatment is medically necessary and well-documented.
4. Demographic Modifiers: Age, occupation, and family status can affect the value. For example, a young victim with a high earning capacity will trigger a higher value than an elderly victim.

How We Counter Colossus

Lupe Peña understands Colossus because he used it for years on the defense side. Here’s how we push the value past the algorithm’s ceiling:

1. Develop Evidence of Gross Negligence: Colossus doesn’t account for punitive damages. If we can prove gross negligence, we open the door to damages far beyond the software’s range.
2. Document Future Medical Needs: Colossus values past medical expenses but often undervalues future care. We work with life care planners and medical economists to project lifetime costs.
3. Highlight the Carrier’s Pattern of Misconduct: Colossus doesn’t account for the carrier’s CSA BASIC scores or prior preventability determinations. We use these records to show a pattern of negligence that justifies higher damages.
4. File in a Plaintiff-Friendly Venue: If the crash occurred in a plaintiff-friendly county (e.g., Harris, Dallas, or Bexar County), we file there. The geographic modifier in Colossus will reflect the higher verdict history.

What This Means for Your Family: The Next Steps

If you’re reading this after a fatal crash in Fort Worth, here’s what you need to do next:

1. Preserve Evidence Immediately

• Do not let the carrier control the evidence. The ELD, dashcam footage, and maintenance records are at risk of being overwritten or “lost.”
• Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 so we can send a preservation letter within 24 hours.

2. Document Everything

• Medical records: Keep copies of all medical bills, treatment notes, and autopsy reports.
• Police report: Obtain a copy of the crash report from the Fort Worth Police Department, Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office, or Texas Department of Public Safety.
• Witness statements: If anyone witnessed the crash, get their contact information.
• Photos and videos: Take photos of the crash scene, vehicle damage, and injuries.

3. Do Not Speak to the Insurance Adjuster Without Legal Counsel

• The adjuster’s job is to minimize the carrier’s exposure. Nothing you say will help your case.
• Do not give a recorded statement.
• Do not sign a release or settlement agreement without consulting an attorney.

4. Understand the Two-Year Clock

• You have exactly two years from the date of the fatal injury to file a wrongful death lawsuit under § 16.003.
• The clock does not pause for grief, funeral arrangements, or the carrier’s delays.
• Do not wait until the last minute. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and the carrier’s legal team will use every delay tactic in the book.

5. Call Attorney 911 Today

We handle these cases on a contingency fee basis:

• 33.33% pre-trial, 40% if the case goes to trial.
• No fee unless we recover compensation for you.
• You may still be responsible for court costs and case expenses.

We offer 24/7 live staff—not an answering service. When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’ll speak to a real person who can start working on your case immediately.

Hablamos Español. Lupe Peña is fluent, and our staff includes bilingual team members so you never need an interpreter.

Why Choose Attorney 911 for Your Fort Worth Case?

1. We Have 23+ Years of Experience

Ralph Manginello has been representing injury victims in Texas since 1998. He’s admitted to federal court in the Southern District of Texas and has handled cases involving some of the largest corporations in the world, including BP in the Texas City Refinery explosion litigation.

2. We Know the Insurance Playbook Because We’ve Written It

Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance defense firms. He knows how adjusters value claims, how they select “independent” medical examiners, and how they use surveillance to undermine victims. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for families like yours.

Here’s what Lupe has to say about insurance tactics:
“I’ve reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos and social media posts as a defense attorney. Here’s the truth: insurance companies take innocent activity out of context. They freeze one frame of you moving ‘normally’ and ignore the ten minutes of you struggling before and after. They’re not documenting your life—they’re building ammunition against you.”

3. We Name Corporate Defendants, Not Just Drivers

Most personal injury firms stop at the driver. We sue the carrier, the broker, the shipper, the maintenance contractor, the parts manufacturer, and the corporate parent. We’ve recovered $50 million+ for clients across Texas, including:

• $5+ million for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss when a log dropped on him at a logging company
• $3.8+ million for a client whose leg was injured in a car accident, leading to a partial amputation due to staff infections
• $2+ million for a maritime client who injured his back while lifting cargo on a ship

Every case is unique. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

4. We Have a 4.9-Star Google Rating from 251+ Reviews

Here’s what our clients say about us:

• Brian Butchee: “Melanie was excellent. She kept me informed and when she said she would call me back, she did. I got to speak with Ralph Manginello once and knew quickly the way his Firm was ran.”
• Stephanie Hernandez: “When I felt I had no hope or direction, Leonor reached out to me…She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.”
• Chelsea Martinez: “Special thank you to my attorney, Mr. Pena, for your kindness and patience with my repeated questions.”
• Dame Haskett: “Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer…Ralph reached out personally.”
• Jacqueline Johnson: “One of Houston’s Great Men Trae Tha Truth has recommended this law firm. So if he is vouching for them then I know they do good work.”

5. We’re Local to Fort Worth

We have offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, but we serve families across Texas, including Fort Worth. We know the roads, the courts, and the carriers that operate in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much is my Fort Worth wrongful death case worth?

The value of your case depends on:

• The severity of your loved one’s injuries and the pain they endured before death
• The financial support your loved one provided to the family
• The emotional loss of companionship, guidance, and love
• The carrier’s conduct (e.g., hours-of-service violations, negligent hiring, falsified logs)
• The venue (e.g., Harris County juries tend to award higher damages than rural county juries)

We work with life care planners, economists, and vocational experts to calculate the full value of your claim.

2. How long will my case take?

Most cases settle within 6 to 18 months, but complex cases can take longer. We push for resolution as quickly as possible without sacrificing value.

3. Do I have to go to court?

Most cases settle without going to trial. However, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This gives us the leverage to negotiate the best possible settlement.

4. What if the truck driver was also killed in the crash?

If the driver was killed, we investigate:

• Whether the driver was fatigued (hours-of-service violations)
• Whether the driver was impaired (drug or alcohol use)
• Whether the truck had mechanical failures (brakes, tires, steering)
• Whether the carrier had a pattern of negligence (prior violations, preventability determinations)

The driver’s death does not absolve the carrier of liability.

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

Yes. We use the three tests to defeat the independent contractor defense (ABC Test, Economic Reality Test, Right-to-Control Test). If the carrier controlled the driver’s work, we can hold the carrier liable.

6. What if the crash happened on a rural road in Tarrant County?

Rural crashes are 2.66 times more likely to be fatal than urban crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This is due to:

• Higher speeds
• Longer EMS response times
• Limited access to Level I trauma centers

We handle rural cases with the same depth as urban cases. We know the roads, the carriers, and the challenges of rural litigation.

7. What if the truck was carrying hazardous materials?

If the truck was carrying hazardous materials (e.g., fuel, chemicals), we investigate:

• Whether the cargo was properly classified, packaged, and labeled under 49 C.F.R. Parts 100–185
• Whether the driver had the required hazmat endorsement under 49 C.F.R. § 383.93
• Whether the carrier had the required $5 million insurance policy under 49 C.F.R. § 387.7

Hazmat cases often involve multiple defendants, including the shipper, the loader, and the manufacturer of the tanker.

8. What if the crash involved a government vehicle (e.g., police, fire, TxDOT)?

If the crash involved a government vehicle, the Texas Tort Claims Act applies. This means:

• You must file a notice of claim within 6 months of the crash under § 101.101.
• Damages are capped at:
  • $250,000 per person and $500,000 per occurrence for municipalities
  • Higher caps for state agencies
• The government’s sovereign immunity is waived only for certain claims (e.g., use of a motor vehicle, premise defects).

We handle government claims with the same depth as private claims.

9. What if I’m undocumented? Will my immigration status affect my case?

No. Your immigration status does not affect your right to compensation in Texas. We represent undocumented clients and ensure their cases are handled with confidentiality and respect.

Hablamos Español. Lupe Peña maneja su caso personalmente.

10. What if I already have a lawyer but I’m not happy with them?

You can switch lawyers at any time. If your current attorney is not returning calls, not updating you, or pushing you to settle too low, you have options.

Here’s what to look for in a trucking accident lawyer:

• Do they understand FMCSA regulations? Ask them to explain hours of service or ELD audits. If they can’t, find a lawyer who can.
• Do they name corporate defendants? If they only sue the driver, they’re not maximizing your recovery.
• Do they have trial experience? Most personal injury firms settle every case. We prepare for trial, which gives us leverage in settlement negotiations.

Fort Worth’s Freight Corridors: Where the Risk Is Highest

Fort Worth sits at the intersection of some of the busiest freight corridors in Texas. These roads carry high volumes of commercial traffic, and they’re where many fatal crashes occur.

Interstate 35W

• Route: Runs north-south through Fort Worth, connecting to Dallas and Waco.
• Freight Volume: Part of the NAFTA superhighway, carrying cross-border freight from Laredo to the Midwest.
• Risk Factors:
  • Congestion: Heavy traffic during rush hours (6–9 a.m. and 4–7 p.m.).
  • Fatigue: Long-haul drivers running routes between Laredo and Dallas often violate hours-of-service rules.
  • Construction Zones: Frequent lane closures and reduced speed limits.

Interstate 20

• Route: Runs east-west through Fort Worth, connecting to the Permian Basin and East Texas.
• Freight Volume: Carries oilfield service trucks, water haulers, and sand haulers to drilling sites in the Permian Basin.
• Risk Factors:
  • Oversize Loads: Many trucks carry wide or overweight loads, increasing the risk of rollovers.
  • Fatigue: Drivers running 28-on, 14-off rotations are prone to hours-of-service violations.
  • Weather: Ice and fog in winter, dust storms in summer.

Interstate 30

• Route: Runs east-west through Fort Worth, connecting to Dallas and the Gulf Coast.
• Freight Volume: Carries petrochemical tankers, intermodal containers, and general freight.
• Risk Factors:
  • Tanker Traffic: Hazardous materials require special handling under 49 C.F.R. Parts 100–185.
  • Congestion: Heavy traffic in the Fort Worth-Dallas metroplex.
  • Work Zones: Frequent construction projects.

State Highway 121 (Airport Freeway)

• Route: Runs east-west through Fort Worth, connecting to DFW Airport.
• Freight Volume: Carries airport-related freight, including cargo from DFW and Alliance Airport.
• Risk Factors:
  • Last-Mile Delivery: High volume of Amazon DSP, FedEx, and UPS delivery trucks.
  • Pedestrian Exposure: Delivery trucks frequently operate in residential areas.

Farm-to-Market Roads (FM 156, FM 1187, FM 51)

• Route: Rural roads in Tarrant County.
• Freight Volume: Carries agricultural products, livestock, and construction materials.
• Risk Factors:
  • Narrow Lanes: Many FM roads are two-lane highways with no median barrier.
  • High Fatality Rate: FM roads have the highest fatality rate per mile in Texas, according to TxDOT CRIS.
  • Limited EMS Access: Longer response times for crashes in rural areas.

Fort Worth’s Trauma Network: Where Victims Are Taken After a Crash

Fort Worth is served by a network of trauma centers that treat victims of catastrophic crashes. Knowing where your loved one was taken can help you understand the severity of their injuries.

Level I Trauma Centers

• John Peter Smith Hospital (JPS): The primary Level I trauma center for Tarrant County. JPS handles the most severe cases, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and burn injuries.
• Parkland Memorial Hospital (Dallas): Serves as a backup Level I trauma center for North Texas.

Level II Trauma Centers

• Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center: A Level II trauma center in Fort Worth that treats serious but less critical injuries.
• Medical City Fort Worth: Another Level II trauma center serving the area.

Burn Centers

• Parkland Burn Center (Dallas): The primary burn center for North Texas, treating severe burn injuries.
• Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth: Provides burn care for less severe cases.

Rehabilitation Facilities

• Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation (Fort Worth): Specializes in rehabilitation for traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and amputations.
• Pate Rehabilitation (Fort Worth): Provides long-term rehabilitation for brain injury survivors.

The Fort Worth Jury Pool: What to Expect in Court

If your case goes to trial, it will likely be heard in Tarrant County District Court. Here’s what you need to know about the jury pool:

Demographics

• Population: Tarrant County is the third-most populous county in Texas, with over 2.1 million residents.
• Diversity: The county is 45% White, 28% Hispanic, 18% Black, and 7% Asian, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
• Political Lean: Tarrant County is conservative-leaning, but urban areas like Fort Worth tend to be more moderate.

Jury Verdict History

• Plaintiff-Friendly: Tarrant County juries have a history of awarding multi-million-dollar verdicts in commercial vehicle cases, especially when the carrier’s conduct was egregious.
• Gross Negligence: Juries are more likely to award punitive damages when the carrier’s conduct rises to gross negligence (e.g., hours-of-service violations, falsified logs, negligent hiring).

What This Means for Your Case

• Venue Matters: If the crash occurred in Tarrant County, we file there. The jury pool is familiar with the roads and the risks.
• Jury Selection: We carefully select jurors who understand the dangers of commercial vehicle crashes and the importance of holding carriers accountable.
• Damages Presentation: We present damages in a way that resonates with Tarrant County jurors, emphasizing the financial and emotional impact on your family.

The Fort Worth Carrier Universe: Who’s Operating on Your Roads

Fort Worth’s freight environment is dominated by a mix of long-haul interstate carriers, regional less-than-truckload (LTL) operators, oilfield service companies, and last-mile delivery networks. Here are some of the major carriers operating in the area:

Long-Haul Interstate Carriers

• Walmart Private Fleet: One of the largest private fleets in the U.S., with major distribution centers in North Texas.
• Amazon Logistics and DSP Contractors: Amazon’s Delivery Service Partner (DSP) program uses independent contractors to run last-mile delivery routes in Fort Worth.
• FedEx Freight and FedEx Ground: FedEx operates multiple terminals in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
• UPS Freight and UPS Ground: UPS has a strong presence in North Texas, including a major hub at DFW Airport.
• Werner Enterprises: A national carrier with a significant presence in Texas.
• J.B. Hunt Transport Services: Operates intermodal and over-the-road freight services.
• Schneider National: Another major interstate carrier with Texas operations.

Regional LTL Carriers

• Old Dominion Freight Line: A leading LTL carrier with terminals in Fort Worth.
• Saia: Another major LTL carrier serving the region.
• Estes Express Lines: Operates in Texas with a focus on LTL freight.

Oilfield Service Trucking

• Halliburton: A major oilfield service company with operations in the Permian Basin and Eagle Ford Shale.
• Schlumberger: Another leading oilfield service provider.
• Patterson-UTI Energy: Operates drilling rigs and oilfield service trucks.
• Liberty Energy: Provides hydraulic fracturing and other oilfield services.
• Water and Sand Haulers: Numerous subcontractors haul produced water and frac sand to drilling sites.

Petrochemical and Hazmat Transport

• Quality Carriers: A leading bulk chemical transporter with operations in the Gulf Coast region.
• Trimac Transportation: Specializes in bulk liquid and dry bulk transport.
• Groendyke Transport: A major hazmat carrier serving refineries and chemical plants.
• Heniff Transportation: Operates in the chemical and petroleum sectors.

Last-Mile Delivery

• Amazon DSP Contractors: Independent contractors operating Amazon-branded vans in Fort Worth neighborhoods.
• FedEx Ground ISPs: Independent Service Providers (ISPs) operating FedEx Ground routes.
• UPS: Directly employs drivers for last-mile delivery.
• USPS: The U.S. Postal Service operates a fleet of delivery vehicles under federal authority.

Government and Municipal Fleets

• Fort Worth Police Department: Operates patrol vehicles and other commercial vehicles.
• Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office: Operates a fleet of law enforcement vehicles.
• Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): State troopers patrol highways in Tarrant County.
• Trinity Metro: Operates buses and paratransit vehicles in Fort Worth.
• Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD): Contracts with bus operators for student transportation.

The Fort Worth Legal Landscape: Courts and Venue

If your case goes to court, it will likely be filed in one of the following venues:

Tarrant County District Court

• Jurisdiction: Handles civil cases with damages over $200,000.
• Court System: Tarrant County has 10 district courts that handle civil cases.
• Jury Pool: Drawn from Tarrant County residents.

Tarrant County Justice of the Peace Courts

• Jurisdiction: Handles cases with damages up to $20,000.
• Court System: There are 8 justice of the peace courts in Tarrant County.

Federal Court: Northern District of Texas, Fort Worth Division

• Jurisdiction: Handles cases involving federal questions (e.g., interstate commerce, federal regulations) or diversity of citizenship.
• Court System: The Fort Worth Division covers Tarrant County and surrounding areas.

Venue Strategy

• Plaintiff-Friendly Counties: If the crash occurred in a plaintiff-friendly county (e.g., Harris or Dallas County), we may file there if venue is proper.
• Defendant’s Home County: If the carrier is based in Tarrant County, we file there to hold them accountable in their own backyard.
• Federal Court: If the case involves federal regulations (e.g., FMCSA violations), we may file in federal court.

The Fort Worth Climate: How Weather Affects Crash Risk

Fort Worth’s climate plays a significant role in commercial vehicle crashes. Here’s how weather patterns increase risk:

Winter Freeze Events

• February 2021 Winter Storm: The storm paralyzed Texas’s electrical grid and produced hundreds of crashes on icy roads, including jackknives and multi-vehicle pileups.
• Black Ice: Temperatures near freezing can create invisible ice on roadways, leading to loss-of-control crashes.
• Carrier Preparedness: Many carriers, especially those based in warmer states, are not equipped for sustained subfreezing temperatures.

Summer Heat

• Tire Blowouts: High temperatures can cause tire failure, especially on trucks carrying heavy loads.
• Brake Fade: Prolonged braking on downhill grades can cause brake systems to overheat and fail.
• Driver Fatigue: Heat can exacerbate driver fatigue, leading to hours-of-service violations.

Severe Thunderstorms and Flash Floods

• Hydroplaning: Heavy rain can cause trucks to lose traction, especially at high speeds.
• Reduced Visibility: Rain, fog, and dust storms can reduce visibility to near-zero.
• Flash Floods: Low-lying areas and underpasses can flood quickly, creating hazards for large trucks.

Dust Storms

• Whiteouts: Dust storms can reduce visibility to zero, leading to multi-vehicle pileups.
• Wind Gusts: High winds can cause rollovers, especially for trucks with high centers of gravity.

How We Use Climate Data in Your Case

• Pre-Trip Inspections: Carriers are required to inspect their trucks for weather-related hazards under 49 C.F.R. § 392.7. If they failed to do so, it supports a claim for negligent maintenance.
• Speed for Conditions: Texas Transportation Code § 545.351 requires drivers to operate at a speed that is reasonable and prudent for the conditions. If the carrier ignored weather warnings, it supports a claim for negligence per se.
• Federal Regulations: 49 C.F.R. § 392.14 requires drivers to exercise caution in hazardous conditions. Violations support a claim for negligence per se under Texas law.

The Fort Worth Economy: How Industry Shapes Crash Risk

Fort Worth’s economy is diverse, and each industry brings its own commercial vehicle risks:

Oil and Gas

• Permian Basin and Eagle Ford Shale: Fort Worth is a gateway to these major oil and gas production regions.
• Oilfield Service Trucks: Water haulers, sand haulers, and frac-spread vehicles operate on rural roads and highways.
• Risk Factors:
  • Fatigue: Drivers often work 28-on, 14-off rotations, leading to hours-of-service violations.
  • Overweight Loads: Many trucks carry loads that exceed legal weight limits.
  • Rural Roads: Oilfield trucks frequently operate on two-lane farm-to-market roads, which have the highest fatality rate per mile in Texas.

Manufacturing and Distribution

• AllianceTexas: A major logistics hub near Fort Worth Alliance Airport, home to companies like Amazon, FedEx, and UPS.
• Distribution Centers: Fort Worth is a major distribution hub for retailers, including Walmart, Target, and Costco.
• Risk Factors:
  • Last-Mile Delivery: High volume of Amazon DSP, FedEx, and UPS delivery trucks in residential areas.
  • Congestion: Heavy traffic around distribution centers and warehouses.

Healthcare

• Texas Health Resources: Operates multiple hospitals in Fort Worth, including Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital.
• Medical Supply Transport: Trucks carrying medical supplies and equipment operate under tight schedules.
• Risk Factors:
  • Time Pressure: Medical supply trucks often run under tight deadlines, increasing the risk of speeding and fatigue.
  • Hazardous Materials: Some medical supplies are classified as hazardous materials under 49 C.F.R. Parts 100–185.

Agriculture

• Cattle and Livestock: Fort Worth is home to the Fort Worth Stockyards, a major livestock market.
• Grain and Cotton: Trucks haul agricultural products to processing facilities.
• Risk Factors:
  • Overweight Loads: Livestock and grain trucks often exceed legal weight limits.
  • Rural Roads: Agricultural trucks frequently operate on two-lane farm-to-market roads.

Aviation

• DFW Airport and Alliance Airport: Major cargo hubs for air freight.
• Risk Factors:
  • Airport-Related Freight: Trucks carrying air cargo operate under tight schedules.
  • Congestion: Heavy traffic around airports.

The Fort Worth Demographic Reality: Who’s at Risk

Fort Worth’s diverse population faces unique risks on the road:

Hispanic and Latino Communities

• Population: 35% of Fort Worth’s population is Hispanic or Latino, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
• Language Barriers: Many Hispanic families may not be fluent in English, making it harder to navigate the legal system.
• Workforce: Many Hispanic workers are employed in industries with high commercial vehicle exposure, such as construction, agriculture, and manufacturing.

How We Serve Hispanic Families:

• Hablamos Español. Lupe Peña is fluent, and our staff includes bilingual team members.
• We ensure that language is never a barrier to justice.
• We provide culturally competent representation, understanding the unique challenges Hispanic families face.

African American Communities

• Population: 19% of Fort Worth’s population is Black or African American.
• Workforce: Many Black workers are employed in industries with high commercial vehicle exposure, such as trucking, healthcare, and public transit.

Immigrant Communities

• Population: 15% of Fort Worth’s population is foreign-born.
• Legal Status: Many immigrants are undocumented and fear interacting with the legal system.
• Workforce: Immigrants often work in industries with high commercial vehicle exposure, such as construction and agriculture.

How We Serve Immigrant Families:

• Immigration status does not affect your right to compensation.
• We ensure confidentiality and respect for all clients, regardless of status.
• We provide resources and referrals for immigration-related concerns.

Young Families

• Population: Fort Worth has a young population, with a median age of 32.
• Risk Factors:
  • School Zones: High volume of school buses and delivery trucks in residential areas.
  • Pedestrian Exposure: Children are at higher risk of being struck by commercial vehicles.

Elderly Population

• Population: 10% of Fort Worth’s population is 65 or older.
• Risk Factors:
  • Slower Reaction Times: Older drivers and pedestrians may have slower reaction times.
  • Medical Conditions: Pre-existing conditions can be worsened by crash injuries.

The Fort Worth Legal Community: Who We Work With

Fort Worth has a vibrant legal community, and we collaborate with other attorneys to serve our clients:

Referring Attorneys

We work with attorneys across Texas who refer cases to us when their clients need specialized trucking litigation expertise. We offer:

• Co-counsel arrangements
• Referral fees in compliance with Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct
• Case updates and collaboration throughout the litigation

Expert Witnesses

We work with a network of expert witnesses, including:

• Accident Reconstructionists: To analyze the crash and determine how it occurred.
• Medical Experts: To document injuries, causation, and future medical needs.
• Vocational Experts: To calculate lost earning capacity.
• Economists: To determine the present value of damages.
• Life Care Planners: To develop detailed care plans for catastrophic injuries.

Medical Providers

We work with medical providers across Fort Worth to ensure our clients receive the best possible care:

• Trauma Centers: John Peter Smith Hospital, Parkland Memorial Hospital, Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center.
• Rehabilitation Facilities: Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation, Pate Rehabilitation.
• Pain Management Clinics: For clients with chronic pain from crash injuries.
• Mental Health Professionals: For clients suffering from PTSD, depression, or anxiety after the crash.

The Fort Worth News Cycle: How Media Shapes Public Perception

Fort Worth’s media landscape influences how commercial vehicle crashes are perceived and reported:

Local News Outlets

• Fort Worth Star-Telegram: The primary newspaper covering Fort Worth and Tarrant County.
• NBC 5 (KXAS-TV): The NBC affiliate covering North Texas.
• CBS 11 (KTVT): The CBS affiliate covering the DFW metroplex.
• Fox 4 (KDFW): The Fox affiliate covering North Texas.
• ABC 8 (WFAA): The ABC affiliate covering the DFW metroplex.

How Media Coverage Affects Your Case

• Public Awareness: Media coverage can raise awareness of the dangers of commercial vehicle crashes.
• Jury Pool Influence: Potential jurors may be influenced by media reports about the crash.
• Corporate Pressure: Negative media coverage can pressure carriers to settle cases more quickly.

How We Use Media Coverage in Your Case

• Documenting the Crash: We review media reports to gather information about the crash, including witness statements and police accounts.
• Public Pressure: In high-profile cases, we may work with the media to hold the carrier accountable.
• Jury Selection: We consider media coverage when selecting jurors to ensure a fair trial.

The Fort Worth Community: How We Give Back

We’re proud to be part of the Fort Worth community and give back through:

Pro Bono Work

• Ralph Manginello is a member of the Pro Bono College of the State Bar of Texas.
• We provide free legal consultations to families in need.
• We volunteer with legal aid organizations to help low-income families access justice.

Community Outreach

• We participate in safety awareness campaigns to educate the public about the dangers of commercial vehicle crashes.
• We sponsor local events and charitable organizations in Fort Worth.
• We provide educational resources on our website and YouTube channel.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Texas

• Ralph Manginello is a Big Brothers Big Sisters volunteer, mentoring young people in the Fort Worth area.
• We support the organization’s mission to provide mentorship and guidance to children in need.

The Bottom Line: What Your Family Needs to Do Now

If you’ve lost a loved one in a fatal 18-wheeler or tractor-trailer crash in Fort Worth, here’s what you need to do:

1. Preserve Evidence: Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 so we can send a preservation letter to the carrier.
2. Document Everything: Keep copies of medical records, police reports, and witness statements.
3. Do Not Speak to the Insurance Adjuster: Their job is to minimize the carrier’s exposure. Nothing you say will help your case.
4. Understand the Two-Year Clock: You have exactly two years from the date of the fatal injury to file a wrongful death lawsuit under § 16.003.
5. Call Attorney 911 Today: We’ll start working on your case immediately and guide you through every step of the process.

We know this is an incredibly difficult time for your family. We’re here to help. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now for a free consultation. We’ll handle everything so you can focus on healing.

Hablamos Español. Lupe Peña está listo para ayudarle. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911 hoy mismo.