18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Addison, Texas: Your Guide to Justice After a Truck Crash

Every year, thousands of families in North Texas are devastated by 18-wheeler accidents on our highways. The Addison area, with its proximity to major freight corridors like I-635, the Dallas North Tollway, and President George Bush Turnpike, sees more than its share of these catastrophic collisions. If you or someone you love has been injured in a trucking accident in Addison, you need experienced legal representation that understands both the complex federal regulations governing the trucking industry and the specific challenges of North Texas roads.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families whose lives were changed forever by negligent trucking companies. With offices serving the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, we’re your Addison trucking accident attorneys – ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in Addison Are Different

Addison sits at the crossroads of some of Texas’s busiest trucking routes. The town’s location near major highways and distribution centers creates unique risks:

• I-635 (LBJ Freeway): A primary east-west corridor handling massive freight volumes between Dallas and Fort Worth
• Dallas North Tollway: Connects to major distribution hubs and serves as a key route for trucks heading to Plano, Frisco, and beyond
• President George Bush Turnpike: A high-speed toll road with heavy truck traffic
• Local distribution centers: Addison is home to numerous warehouses and logistics facilities that generate constant truck traffic

These factors combine to make Addison’s roads particularly dangerous for passenger vehicles sharing the road with large commercial trucks.

Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Addison

Trucking accidents in Addison often involve:

Jackknife Accidents

When a truck’s trailer swings out at an angle to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes. These frequently occur on I-635’s sharp curves or when drivers brake suddenly on the toll roads.

Underride Collisions

When a passenger vehicle slides underneath a truck’s trailer, often resulting in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries. These are particularly common at intersections along Belt Line Road.

Rear-End Collisions

Due to trucks’ longer stopping distances, rear-end collisions are frequent on Addison’s congested roads, especially during rush hour.

Tire Blowouts

Addison’s summer heat can cause tire failures, leading to loss of control accidents. The high speeds on the toll roads make these especially dangerous.

Wide Turn Accidents

Trucks making wide right turns at Addison intersections often cut off other vehicles, leading to collisions.

Fatigue-Related Crashes

Many Addison-area truck drivers are nearing the end of long hauls from distribution centers, increasing fatigue risks.

The Devastating Injuries We See in Addison Trucking Cases

The size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers (up to 80,000 pounds) and passenger vehicles (typically 3,500-4,000 pounds) means trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): From mild concussions to severe brain damage requiring lifelong care
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Often resulting in partial or complete paralysis
• Amputations: Limbs crushed or severed in the collision
• Severe Burns: From fuel tank ruptures or hazmat cargo spills
• Internal Organ Damage: From the extreme forces involved
• Multiple Fractures: Often requiring extensive surgeries and rehabilitation
• Wrongful Death: Too many Addison families have lost loved ones in trucking accidents

These injuries often require millions of dollars in medical treatment and can permanently alter the course of a family’s life.

Who’s Really Responsible for Your Addison Trucking Accident?

In most car accidents, only one driver is at fault. But in 18-wheeler accidents, multiple parties may share responsibility:

The Truck Driver

• Violating hours of service regulations
• Driving while fatigued or distracted
• Operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Failing to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Speeding or driving too fast for conditions

The Trucking Company

• Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service rules
• Failing to properly train drivers
• Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified or dangerous drivers)
• Inadequate vehicle maintenance
• Encouraging unsafe driving practices

Cargo Loaders

• Improperly securing cargo
• Overloading the truck
• Failing to balance the load properly

Maintenance Companies

• Performing inadequate repairs
• Using substandard parts
• Failing to identify safety issues

Truck or Parts Manufacturers

• Defective brake systems
• Faulty steering components
• Defective tires
• Inadequate underride guards

Government Entities

• Poor road design
• Inadequate signage
• Failure to maintain safe road conditions

At Attorney911, we investigate every possible source of liability to ensure you recover the maximum compensation available.

The Critical Evidence in Your Addison Trucking Case

Evidence disappears quickly after a trucking accident. Here’s what we preserve for your case:

Electronic Data

• ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, throttle position, and more
• ELD Records: Proves hours of service compliance or violations
• GPS Data: Shows the truck’s route and speed
• Cell Phone Records: Documents distracted driving
• Dashcam Footage: Captures the accident as it happened

Driver Records

• Driver Qualification File (DQF)
• Employment application and background check
• Driving record and previous employers
• Medical certification
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training records

Vehicle Records

• Maintenance and repair records
• Inspection reports
• Out-of-service orders
• Tire replacement history
• Brake inspection records

Company Records

• Dispatch logs
• Hours of service records
• Safety policies
• Training materials
• Previous accident history

We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this evidence before it’s lost or destroyed.

How Addison’s Laws Affect Your Trucking Accident Case

Texas law provides specific protections and requirements for trucking accident victims:

Statute of Limitations

You have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit in Texas. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly, and the sooner we begin investigating, the stronger your case will be.

Comparative Negligence

Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means:

• If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages
• Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you’re more than 50% at fault, you recover nothing

For example, if you’re found 20% at fault and your damages total $1,000,000, you would recover $800,000.

Damage Caps

Texas has complex rules regarding damage caps:

• Non-economic damages (pain and suffering): No cap in most personal injury cases
• Punitive damages: Capped at the greater of (2 × economic damages + non-economic damages up to $750,000) OR $200,000

Insurance Requirements

Commercial trucks must carry minimum liability insurance:

• $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
• $1,000,000 for oil and large equipment
• $5,000,000 for hazardous materials

Many carriers carry additional coverage, sometimes up to $10 million or more.

The FMCSA Regulations That Protect Addison Drivers

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the trucking industry through Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations. These regulations are designed to keep our roads safe. When trucking companies violate them, they put everyone at risk.

Hours of Service Rules (49 CFR Part 395)

To prevent fatigue-related accidents, FMCSA limits how long drivers can operate:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour On-Duty Window: Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• 30-Minute Break: Required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Limit: Cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
• 34-Hour Restart: Can reset weekly limits with 34 consecutive hours off duty

Violating these rules is a leading cause of trucking accidents in Addison.

Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR Part 391)

Trucking companies must ensure their drivers are qualified:

• Must be at least 21 years old (18 for intrastate)
• Must read and speak English sufficiently
• Must be physically qualified (pass medical exam)
• Must have valid commercial driver’s license (CDL)
• Must complete road test or equivalent
• Must not be disqualified for violations

Companies must maintain a Driver Qualification File for each driver containing:

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

Vehicle Maintenance Requirements (49 CFR Part 396)

Trucks must be systematically inspected, repaired, and maintained. Key requirements:

• Pre-trip inspections: Drivers must inspect vehicles before each trip
• Post-trip reports: Drivers must report any defects
• Annual inspections: Comprehensive inspection required every year
• Maintenance records: Must be kept for at least one year

Cargo Securement Rules (49 CFR Part 393)

Cargo must be properly secured to prevent shifting or spilling. Requirements include:

• Working load limits for tiedowns
• Minimum number of tiedowns based on cargo length and weight
• Specific securement methods for different cargo types

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Addison

If you’re involved in a trucking accident in Addison, take these steps to protect your rights:

1. Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked out. Many injuries don’t show symptoms immediately
3. Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of:
   • Vehicle damage (all vehicles involved)
   • Skid marks and road conditions
   • Traffic signals and signs
   • Your injuries
   • The truck and trailer (including license plates and DOT numbers)
4. Get Witness Information: Collect names and contact information from anyone who saw the accident
5. Don’t Give Statements: Don’t speak to insurance adjusters without your attorney present
6. Contact an Attorney Immediately: Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases

Why Addison Trucking Accident Victims Choose Attorney911

When you’re facing the aftermath of a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a legal team with the experience, resources, and determination to take on the trucking industry.

Our Experience with Addison Trucking Cases

• 25+ years handling commercial vehicle accident cases
• Multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for trucking accident victims
• Federal court experience in the Southern District of Texas
• Former insurance defense attorney on staff – we know their tactics

Our Addison-Specific Advantages

• Deep understanding of Addison’s trucking corridors and accident patterns
• Experience with local courts and judges
• Knowledge of Addison’s distribution centers and freight routes
• Immediate access to accident scenes and local resources

Our Proven Process

1. Immediate Response: We begin investigating within hours
2. Evidence Preservation: We send spoliation letters to protect critical evidence
3. Comprehensive Investigation: We gather all available evidence and identify all liable parties
4. Expert Analysis: We work with accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and vocational specialists
5. Aggressive Negotiation: We fight for maximum compensation from all available insurance policies
6. Trial Preparation: We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial to create leverage in negotiations

Our Commitment to Addison Clients

• Personal Attention: You’ll work directly with our attorneys, not just paralegals
• 24/7 Availability: We’re here when you need us
• No Upfront Costs: We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win
• Compassionate Representation: We understand the trauma you’re going through

Addison Trucking Accident Case Results

While every case is unique, our track record demonstrates our ability to secure significant compensation for trucking accident victims:

• $5+ Million: Logging brain injury settlement (workplace accident with trucking components)
• $3.8+ Million: Car accident amputation settlement (staph infection during treatment)
• $2.5+ Million: Truck crash recovery
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases
• $2+ Million: Maritime back injury settlement (Jones Act case with trucking industry connections)

These results show what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable for their negligence.

Addison Trucking Accident FAQ

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Addison?

If you’re able, take these steps:

1. Call 911 to report the accident
2. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
3. Document the scene with photos and videos
4. Get the truck driver’s information and the trucking company’s details
5. Collect witness contact information
6. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
7. Call an Addison 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately

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

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

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Addison?

Multiple parties may be liable:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• The cargo owner or shipper
• The company that loaded the cargo
• Truck or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers
• Government entities (for road defects)

We investigate all possible sources of liability to maximize your recovery.

What if the truck driver says I caused the accident?

Texas uses a comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. Our job is to investigate thoroughly and prove what really happened. We gather evidence from the truck’s black box, ELD records, witness statements, and more to build the strongest possible case.

How much is my Addison trucking accident case worth?

Case values depend on many factors:

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

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits than typical drivers, often $1 million or more. This means catastrophic injuries can be fully compensated.

What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?

Never accept a quick settlement offer without consulting an attorney. These offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. We’ve seen cases where the initial offer was less than 10% of the final settlement amount.

Do I need a lawyer for an Addison trucking accident case?

Yes. Trucking accident cases are complex and involve multiple liable parties, federal regulations, and aggressive insurance companies. Having an experienced Addison trucking accident attorney levels the playing field and significantly increases your chances of a fair recovery.

How much does it cost to hire an Addison trucking accident attorney?

At Attorney911, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means:

• You pay nothing upfront
• We advance all costs of investigation and litigation
• You only pay if we win your case
• Our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. As long as you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re 20% at fault and your damages total $1,000,000, you would recover $800,000.

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

Yes. Even if the driver was an independent contractor, the trucking company may still be liable under various legal theories. We investigate the relationship between the driver and company to determine all possible sources of recovery.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Bankruptcy doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t recover. We investigate all available insurance policies, including umbrella coverage, and explore all potential sources of compensation.

How long will my Addison trucking accident case take?

Timelines vary:

• Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
• Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
• Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

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 creates leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready if the case does go to court.

What if I can’t afford medical treatment?

We can help connect you with medical providers who will treat you on a lien basis. This means they’ll wait for payment until your case settles. We also work with your health insurance and can help navigate the complex medical billing process.

Can I recover for pain and suffering?

Yes. In Texas, you can recover compensation for:

• Physical pain
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement
• Physical impairment

What if my loved one was killed in an Addison trucking accident?

Texas allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover:

• Lost future income
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish
• Funeral expenses
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

What if the truck was carrying hazardous materials?

Hazmat trucking accidents create additional risks and legal complexities. These trucks must carry at least $5 million in insurance coverage. We have experience handling hazmat cases and understand the additional regulations that apply.

Can I get punitive damages in my Addison trucking accident case?

Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company acted with gross negligence or reckless disregard for safety. These damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. Texas caps punitive damages at the greater of (2 × economic damages + non-economic damages up to $750,000) OR $200,000.

What if the trucking company destroyed evidence?

Destroying evidence after receiving notice of a claim is called spoliation. Courts can:

• Instruct juries to assume the destroyed evidence was unfavorable
• Impose monetary sanctions
• Enter default judgment in extreme cases
• Award punitive damages

This is why we send spoliation letters immediately in every trucking case.

How do I prove the truck driver was fatigued?

We gather multiple types of evidence to prove fatigue:

• ELD records showing hours of service violations
• Dispatch logs showing unrealistic schedules
• Cell phone records showing late-night communications
• Witness statements about the driver’s appearance
• Truck stop receipts showing unusual hours
• Medical records showing sleep disorders

What if the truck’s black box data contradicts the driver’s story?

ECM/black box data is objective and tamper-resistant. It often contradicts what drivers claim happened. This data has led to multi-million dollar verdicts in trucking cases.

Can I access the trucking company’s safety record?

Yes. The FMCSA maintains public safety records 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 trucking company claims I was in their blind spot?

Trucks have significant blind spots (No-Zones) on all sides. Drivers are required to check their mirrors before changing lanes or making turns. We investigate whether the driver properly checked their mirrors and whether the truck was equipped with proper mirrors and cameras.

How do I prove the trucking company pressured the driver to violate hours of service rules?

We gather evidence from:

• Dispatch records showing unrealistic schedules
• Company policies regarding on-time delivery
• Driver statements about pressure to meet deadlines
• ELD records showing consistent violations
• Previous violations and disciplinary records

What if the truck’s brakes failed?

Brake failures are often the result of deferred maintenance. We investigate:

• Maintenance records
• Brake inspection history
• Out-of-service orders
• Driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs)
• Post-crash brake system analysis

Can I sue if the truck’s cargo spilled onto the road?

Yes. Cargo spills often result from improper securement. We investigate:

• Cargo securement procedures
• Loading company records
• Tiedown specifications
• Weight distribution
• Driver training on securement

What if the trucking company is based out of state?

It doesn’t matter where the trucking company is based. If they operate in Texas, they’re subject to Texas laws and can be sued in Texas courts. We have experience handling cases against national trucking companies.

Can I recover if I was a passenger in the truck?

Yes. If the truck driver was at fault, you can pursue a claim against the trucking company. You may also have claims against other parties involved in the accident.

What if I was hit by a truck while walking or biking in Addison?

Pedestrians and cyclists have the same rights as other accident victims. Truck drivers have a special duty to watch for vulnerable road users. We investigate whether the driver properly yielded the right-of-way and whether the truck was equipped with proper safety features.

Can I recover lost wages if I can’t work because of my injuries?

Yes. You can recover both past lost wages and future lost earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to work or limit your ability to work.

What if I have pre-existing conditions?

You can still recover for injuries caused by the accident. Texas follows the “eggshell skull” rule – defendants take plaintiffs as they find them. We work with medical experts to differentiate between pre-existing conditions and accident-related injuries.

How do I pay my medical bills while my case is pending?

We can help in several ways:

• Working with your health insurance
• Connecting you with medical providers who will treat you on a lien basis
• Negotiating with medical providers to reduce bills
• Advancing funds for necessary treatment (in some cases)

What if the trucking company’s insurance company contacts me?

Do not speak to them without consulting an attorney. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize claims. Anything you say can be used against you. Refer them to your attorney.

Can I still recover if the truck driver fled the scene?

Yes. We investigate hit-and-run cases thoroughly to identify the truck and driver. We also explore all available insurance coverage, including your own uninsured motorist coverage.

What if the truck was owned by a different company than the one the driver worked for?

This is common in the trucking industry. We investigate all relationships between companies to identify all possible sources of liability and insurance coverage.

Can I recover if the trucking company claims the accident was caused by a mechanical failure?

Yes. Even if a mechanical failure caused the accident, the trucking company may still be liable for failing to properly maintain the vehicle or inspect it before the trip.

What if the trucking company claims the accident was caused by weather conditions?

Truck drivers have a duty to adjust their driving to weather conditions. We investigate whether the driver was driving too fast for conditions, failed to use proper equipment (like chains in ice), or violated other safety regulations.

Can I recover if the trucking company claims I was speeding?

Texas uses comparative negligence. Even if you were speeding, you may still recover if the truck driver was more at fault. We gather evidence to determine the true cause of the accident.

What if the trucking company claims I wasn’t wearing a seatbelt?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. Even if you weren’t wearing a seatbelt, you may still recover if the truck driver was more at fault. However, your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Can I recover if the trucking company claims I was distracted?

We investigate thoroughly to determine what really happened. Even if you were distracted, the truck driver may still be primarily at fault for failing to maintain a safe following distance or failing to react appropriately.

What if the trucking company claims I made an unsafe lane change?

We gather evidence from multiple sources to determine the true sequence of events. Even if you made an unsafe lane change, the truck driver may still be primarily at fault for failing to maintain a safe distance or failing to check their mirrors.

Can I recover if the trucking company claims I ran a red light?

We investigate thoroughly to determine what really happened. We gather evidence from:

• Traffic signal timing records
• Witness statements
• Video footage from nearby businesses
• ECM/black box data
• Accident reconstruction analysis

What if the trucking company claims I was under the influence?

We gather evidence to determine the true cause of the accident. Even if you had consumed alcohol, the truck driver may still be primarily at fault for the collision.

Can I recover if the trucking company claims I was driving recklessly?

We investigate thoroughly to determine what really happened. Even if you were driving recklessly, the truck driver may still be primarily at fault for failing to maintain a safe distance or failing to react appropriately.

What if the trucking company claims I was driving an unsafe vehicle?

We investigate the condition of your vehicle and the true cause of the accident. Even if your vehicle had maintenance issues, the truck driver may still be primarily at fault for the collision.

Can I recover if the trucking company claims I was driving without insurance?

Yes. Your insurance status doesn’t affect your right to recover from the at-fault party. However, you should always maintain insurance to protect yourself.

What if the trucking company claims I was driving without a license?

We investigate the true cause of the accident. Even if you were driving without a license, the truck driver may still be primarily at fault for the collision.

Can I recover if the trucking company claims I was driving a stolen vehicle?

This would be a complex situation. We would investigate all aspects of the case to determine the best course of action.

What if the trucking company claims I was engaged in criminal activity?

We investigate the true cause of the accident. Even if you were engaged in criminal activity, the truck driver may still be primarily at fault for the collision. However, this could complicate your case.

Can I recover if the trucking company claims I was trespassing?

This would depend on the specific circumstances. We would investigate all aspects of the case to determine the best course of action.

What if the trucking company claims I was at fault because I didn’t have my headlights on?

We investigate the true cause of the accident. Even if your headlights weren’t on, the truck driver may still be primarily at fault for failing to maintain a safe distance or failing to react appropriately.

Can I recover if the trucking company claims I was at fault because I didn’t signal?

We investigate the true cause of the accident. Even if you didn’t signal, the truck driver may still be primarily at fault for failing to maintain a safe distance or failing to check their mirrors.

Addison Trucking Accident Resources

Local Hospitals

• Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Plano: (469) 814-2000
• Medical City Plano: (972) 596-6800
• Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas: (214) 345-6789
• Methodist Dallas Medical Center: (214) 947-8181

Local Police Departments

• Addison Police Department: (972) 450-7156
• Dallas Police Department: (214) 671-3001
• Plano Police Department: (972) 424-5678

State and Federal Agencies

• Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): www.txdot.gov
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): www.fmcsa.dot.gov
• Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): www.dps.texas.gov

Support Organizations

• Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD): www.madd.org
• Brain Injury Association of America: www.biausa.org
• Spinal Cord Injury Association of Texas: www.texasscia.org

Contact Addison’s Trusted 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Addison, don’t wait to seek legal help. Evidence disappears quickly, and the trucking company’s legal team is already working to protect their interests.

Call Attorney911 now for a free, no-obligation consultation:

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

We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you understand your rights. Remember, we work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.

“When disaster strikes on Addison’s roads, you need a Legal Emergency Lawyer™ who fights like your future depends on it—because it does.” – Ralph Manginello

Don’t let the trucking company push you around. Call Attorney911 and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.