18-Wheeler Accidents in Corral City, Texas: Your Complete Legal Guide

When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Your Life in an Instant

The moment an 18-wheeler crashes into your vehicle on Corral City’s highways, your life changes forever. One second you’re driving to work on FM 428, the next you’re waking up in a hospital bed with catastrophic injuries. The trucking company already has lawyers working to protect their interests. Who’s protecting yours?

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Denton County for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against some of the largest trucking companies in America. We know Corral City’s trucking corridors, the local courts, and exactly how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Corral City, Texas, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. Evidence disappears fast in trucking cases – we’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your rights.

Why Corral City’s Highways Are So Dangerous for Truck Accidents

Corral City sits at the crossroads of major North Texas freight routes. The convergence of I-35, US-77, and FM 428 creates a perfect storm of truck traffic that puts local drivers at risk every day.

Corral City’s Most Dangerous Trucking Corridors

I-35 Corridor (Denton to Lewisville):
The I-35 corridor through Corral City is part of the NAFTA superhighway – one of the busiest truck routes in America. This stretch handles massive volumes of cross-border freight between Mexico, Texas, and the Midwest. The constant mix of local commuter traffic and long-haul trucks creates dangerous conditions, especially during peak hours.

US-77 (North-South Freight Route):
US-77 connects Corral City to major distribution hubs in Dallas and Fort Worth. This route sees heavy truck traffic from warehouses and manufacturing facilities, with frequent lane changes and merging that lead to accidents.

FM 428 and Local Farm-to-Market Roads:
These rural roads weren’t designed for the volume of truck traffic they now carry. Narrow lanes, sharp curves, and limited shoulders create hazards when combined with heavy truck traffic. Many serious underride accidents occur on these roads when trucks make wide turns at intersections.

Denton County Distribution Centers:
Corral City’s proximity to major distribution facilities means constant truck traffic from loading docks to highways. These trucks often travel at high speeds on local roads not designed for their weight and size.

Unique Hazards on Corral City’s Roads

Crosswinds on Open Stretches:
The flat terrain around Corral City creates crosswind conditions that can destabilize high-profile trailers, especially empty ones. These winds contribute to rollover accidents on I-35 and US-77.

Rush Hour Congestion:
During morning and evening commutes, Corral City’s roads become congested with trucks trying to make delivery deadlines. This creates a dangerous mix of impatient truck drivers and local commuters unfamiliar with truck blind spots.

Construction Zones:
Ongoing infrastructure projects around Corral City create temporary traffic patterns that confuse both truck drivers and local motorists. Construction zone accidents are particularly dangerous due to the presence of heavy equipment.

Agricultural Traffic:
Farm equipment sharing the road with 18-wheelers creates unique hazards. Slow-moving combines and oversized loads can surprise truck drivers, leading to rear-end collisions or forced lane changes.

The Catastrophic Injuries We See in Corral City Truck Accidents

When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a 4,000-pound passenger vehicle, the results are devastating. The injuries we see in Corral City truck accidents are life-altering and often permanent.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI is one of the most common and devastating injuries in truck accidents. The extreme forces involved can cause:

• Concussions – Often dismissed as “mild” but can have lasting cognitive effects
• Moderate to Severe TBI – Extended unconsciousness, memory loss, personality changes
• Penetrating Head Injuries – From flying debris or underride collisions

Many TBI victims in Corral City require lifelong care. We’ve secured multi-million dollar settlements for clients whose lives were forever changed by brain injuries from truck accidents on I-35 and US-77.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

The spinal cord is extremely vulnerable in truck accidents. Injuries can result in:

• Paraplegia – Paralysis from the waist down
• Quadriplegia – Paralysis of all four limbs
• Incomplete Injuries – Partial loss of function below the injury site

Spinal cord injuries often require specialized care at facilities like Medical City Denton or Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Denton. The lifetime costs can exceed $5 million, and we fight to ensure our clients receive full compensation for these catastrophic injuries.

Amputations

Truck accidents frequently result in traumatic amputations or injuries so severe that surgical amputation is required. These injuries occur from:

• Crushing forces in underride collisions
• Entrapment requiring emergency amputation
• Severe burns from fuel fires
• Infections from open wounds

Amputations change lives forever. Our Corral City clients with amputations require prosthetics, rehabilitation, and home modifications. We understand these long-term needs and fight for compensation that covers lifetime care.

Severe Burns

Burn injuries in truck accidents often result from:

• Fuel tank ruptures causing fires
• Hazardous material spills
• Electrical system failures
• Friction burns from road contact

Burn victims from Corral City truck accidents often require treatment at specialized burn centers. The scarring and disfigurement can be permanent, affecting both physical function and psychological well-being.

Internal Organ Damage

The forces in a truck accident can cause severe internal injuries that aren’t immediately apparent:

• Liver and spleen lacerations
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusions or punctures
• Internal bleeding
• Bowel perforations

These injuries often require emergency surgery and can be life-threatening. Many of our Corral City clients have suffered internal injuries that weren’t diagnosed until hours after the accident.

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident takes a life, the grief is immeasurable. Wrongful death claims in Texas allow surviving family members to recover:

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

Our Corral City wrongful death attorneys have represented families who lost loved ones in truck accidents on I-35, US-77, and local roads. We understand the emotional toll and fight for justice while families focus on healing.

Common Types of Truck Accidents in Corral City

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents are particularly common on Corral City’s highways due to:

• Sudden braking on congested I-35
• Wet or icy road conditions
• Improperly loaded trailers
• Brake system failures

When a trailer swings out at a 90-degree angle to the cab, it can block multiple lanes and cause multi-vehicle pileups. These accidents often occur during morning rush hour when trucks are trying to make delivery deadlines.

Underride Collisions

Underride accidents are among the deadliest truck accidents in Corral City. They occur when:

• A passenger vehicle slides under the rear of a trailer (rear underride)
• A vehicle impacts the side of a trailer during lane changes (side underride)

These accidents often result in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries. While federal law requires rear underride guards, no such requirement exists for side underride guards. Many Corral City underride accidents occur at intersections like FM 428 and US-77.

Rollover Accidents

Rollover accidents are frequent on Corral City’s highways due to:

• High speeds on I-35 curves
• Top-heavy loads from local distribution centers
• Sudden lane changes to avoid traffic
• Crosswinds on open stretches

When a truck rolls over, it can crush nearby vehicles or spill cargo across multiple lanes. These accidents often cause secondary collisions as other vehicles try to avoid the fallen truck.

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions involving trucks are particularly dangerous because:

• Trucks require 40% more stopping distance than cars
• The height difference can cause underride
• The impact force is much greater due to the truck’s weight

These accidents frequently occur on US-77 during rush hour when trucks follow too closely behind passenger vehicles.

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Wide turn accidents are common in Corral City due to:

• Trucks making right turns from the left lane
• Drivers misjudging the space needed for turns
• Passenger vehicles entering the gap between truck and curb

These accidents often occur at intersections like FM 428 and I-35, where trucks need to make wide turns to avoid curbs and signs.

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)

Trucks have massive blind spots where drivers can’t see other vehicles:

• Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab
• Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer
• Left Side No-Zone: From the cab door backward (smaller)
• Right Side No-Zone: From the cab door backward (much larger)

Many Corral City truck accidents occur when trucks change lanes on I-35 or US-77 without seeing vehicles in their blind spots.

Tire Blowout Accidents

Tire blowouts are particularly dangerous in Corral City due to:

• Extreme Texas heat causing tire failures
• Overloaded trucks from local distribution centers
• Poor maintenance by some carriers
• Road debris on rural roads

When a steer tire blows out, the driver can lose control immediately. Blown trailer tires can create road debris that causes secondary accidents.

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake failures are a significant problem in Corral City due to:

• Long descents on I-35 and US-77
• Poor maintenance by some local carriers
• Overheated brakes from excessive use
• Worn brake components not replaced

Brake failure is a factor in 29% of large truck crashes. We’ve seen multiple brake failure accidents on the I-35 descent into Denton County.

Cargo Spill Accidents

Cargo spills create hazards on Corral City roads when:

• Improperly secured loads shift during transit
• Tarps come loose on flatbed trailers
• Containers fail on tanker trucks
• Hazardous materials spill from damaged trailers

These accidents often require emergency response from Denton County HazMat teams and can close highways for hours.

Who’s Really Responsible for Your Corral City Truck Accident?

Trucking accidents are complex because multiple parties may share responsibility. We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

The Truck Driver

The driver may be liable for:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving (cell phone use, dispatch communications)
• Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
• Impaired driving (drugs or alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Traffic law violations

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

Trucking companies are often the most important defendants because they have the deepest pockets. They may be liable for:

Vicarious Liability:

• The driver was an employee (not independent contractor)
• Acting within the scope of employment
• Performing job duties when the accident occurred

Direct Negligence:

• Negligent Hiring: Failed to check the driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
• Negligent Training: Inadequate training on safety, cargo securement, or hours of service
• Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance or ELD compliance
• Negligent Maintenance: Failed to maintain vehicles in safe condition
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations to meet deadlines

The Cargo Owner/Shipper

The company that owns the cargo may be liable for:

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
• Requiring overweight loading
• Pressuring the carrier to expedite delivery beyond safe limits
• Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics

The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
• Not training loaders on securement requirements

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for:

• Design defects (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement)
• Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
• Failure to warn of known dangers
• Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

Parts Manufacturers

Companies that manufacture specific parts may be liable for:

• Defective brakes or brake components
• Defective tires causing blowouts
• Defective steering mechanisms
• Defective lighting components
• Defective coupling devices

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance companies may be liable for:

• Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
• Failure to identify critical safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard or wrong parts
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Freight Brokers

Freight brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

• Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
• Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
• Failure to check carrier CSA scores
• Selecting the cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

The Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may have separate liability for:

• Negligent entrustment of the vehicle
• Failure to maintain owned equipment
• Knowledge of the driver’s unfitness

Government Entities

Federal, state, or local government may be liable in limited circumstances for:

• Dangerous road design that contributed to the accident
• Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
• Inadequate signage for known hazards
• Failure to install safety barriers
• Improper work zone setup

The Critical Evidence We Preserve in Corral City Truck Accident Cases

Evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act fast, critical evidence will be lost forever.

Electronic Data That Must Be Preserved Immediately

ECM/Black Box Data:
Commercial trucks have electronic systems that record operational data. This is the most important evidence in trucking cases.

ELD (Electronic Logging Device) Data:
ELDs record driver hours of service and prove:

• Whether the driver violated federal rest requirements
• How long the driver had been on duty
• Whether breaks were taken as required
• GPS location history
• Any falsification of logs

ELD data can be overwritten within 30 days. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this evidence.

Other Electronic Evidence:

• Telematics data (real-time GPS tracking)
• Dashcam footage (often deleted within 7-14 days)
• Dispatch communications
• Cell phone records
• Qualcomm or fleet management system data

Physical Evidence We Secure

• The truck and trailer themselves (before repair)
• Failed or damaged components
• Cargo and securement devices
• Tire remnants if blowout involved
• Roadway debris and skid marks
• Photographs of the scene and vehicles

Documentary Evidence We Pursue

Driver Records:

• Complete Driver Qualification File
• Employment application and background check
• Driving record and previous employer verification
• Medical certification and exam records
• Drug and alcohol test results (pre-employment and random)
• Training records and certifications
• Previous accident and violation history
• Performance reviews and disciplinary records

Company Records:

• Hours of service records for 6 months prior
• Dispatch logs and trip records
• Bills of lading and cargo documentation
• Insurance policies
• Safety policies and procedures
• Training curricula
• Hiring and supervision policies
• Previous accident/violation history
• CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores

Maintenance Records:

• Maintenance and repair records
• Inspection reports (pre-trip, post-trip, annual)
• Out-of-service orders and repairs
• Tire records and replacement history
• Brake inspection and adjustment records
• Parts purchase and installation records

How We Prove Negligence in Corral City Truck Accidents

To win your case, we must prove the trucking company or driver was negligent. We use multiple strategies to build an ironclad case.

FMCSA Violations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399) establish safety standards for the trucking industry. Violations of these regulations create strong evidence of negligence.

Most Common Violations in Corral City Cases:

Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395):

• Driving more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• Driving beyond the 14th consecutive hour on duty
• Failing to take required 30-minute breaks
• Exceeding 60/70-hour weekly limits
• Falsifying ELD or paper log records

Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391):

• Hiring drivers without proper CDL
• Hiring drivers with suspended licenses
• Failing to maintain Driver Qualification Files
• Hiring drivers with poor safety records
• Allowing drivers to operate without current medical certification

Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396):

• Failure to conduct pre-trip inspections
• Operating vehicles with known defects
• Improper brake adjustments
• Worn or damaged tires
• Non-functioning lights or reflectors
• Failure to maintain maintenance records

Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR Part 393):

• Inadequate number of tiedowns
• Tiedowns with insufficient working load limits
• Improper load distribution
• Failure to use blocking or bracing
• Loose tarps allowing cargo shift

Drug and Alcohol Violations (49 CFR Part 382):

• Operating under the influence
• Positive drug or alcohol tests
• Failure to conduct required testing
• Failure to remove impaired drivers from service

Negligent Hiring, Training, and Supervision

Trucking companies can be directly liable for their own negligence in:

Negligent Hiring:

• Failing to conduct background checks
• Hiring drivers with suspended licenses
• Hiring drivers with poor safety records
• Hiring drivers without proper medical certification
• Failing to verify previous employment

Negligent Training:

• Inadequate safety training
• No training on hours of service regulations
• No training on cargo securement
• No training on emergency maneuvers
• No training on Corral City’s specific hazards

Negligent Supervision:

• Failing to monitor driver performance
• Ignoring hours of service violations
• Failing to review ELD data
• Not disciplining drivers for safety violations
• Pressuring drivers to violate regulations

Corporate Negligence

We investigate the trucking company’s corporate culture to prove:

• History of safety violations ignored
• Pattern of falsifying records
• Pressure on drivers to violate regulations
• Cost-cutting measures that compromised safety
• Failure to implement safety programs
• Prior accidents with similar causes

Expert Witnesses We Use in Corral City Cases

Accident Reconstruction Experts:
These engineers analyze the physical evidence to determine:

• How the accident occurred
• Vehicle speeds
• Point of impact
• Driver actions
• Contributing factors

Trucking Industry Experts:
Former trucking company executives testify about:

• Industry standards
• Proper hiring and training practices
• Maintenance requirements
• Hours of service compliance
• Corporate responsibility

Medical Experts:
Physicians and specialists establish:

• The extent of your injuries
• Future medical needs
• Causal connection between accident and injuries
• Life care plans for catastrophic injuries
• Prognosis and permanent impairment

Economic Experts:
Economists calculate:

• Lost wages and benefits
• Future earning capacity
• Life care costs
• Present value of future damages

Vocational Experts:
These specialists determine:

• Your ability to return to work
• Job retraining needs
• Loss of earning capacity
• Impact on career advancement

What Your Corral City Truck Accident Case Is Worth

Case values depend on many factors, but trucking cases typically yield higher settlements than car accidents because:

• Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million)
• The injuries are usually more severe
• Multiple defendants may be liable
• Juries are more sympathetic to victims of corporate negligence

Factors That Determine Case Value

Severity of Injuries:
More severe injuries result in higher settlements. Catastrophic injuries like TBI, paralysis, and amputations command the highest compensation.

Medical Expenses:
Past, present, and future medical costs are fully compensable. This includes hospital bills, rehabilitation, home modifications, and future care needs.

Lost Income:
We recover compensation for:

• Wages lost during recovery
• Future lost earning capacity if you can’t return to work
• Benefits lost due to disability

Pain and Suffering:
This includes:

• Physical pain from injuries
• Emotional distress and mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement and permanent impairment

Degree of Defendant’s Negligence:
Cases involving gross negligence or willful misconduct may result in punitive damages, which can significantly increase the value of your case.

Insurance Coverage Available:
We identify all available insurance policies, including:

• The trucking company’s liability policy
• Trailer interchange coverage
• Cargo insurance
• Owner-operator policies
• Excess/umbrella coverage

Recent Texas Trucking Verdicts and Settlements

While every case is unique, recent verdicts in Texas demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

• $730 Million – Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (2021) – Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman
• $150 Million – Werner settlement (2022) – Two children killed on I-30
• $37.5 Million – Trucking verdict in Texas (2024)
• $35 Million – Fort Worth trucking verdict (2025) – Largest in Tarrant County history

These verdicts show that Texas juries are willing to hold trucking companies accountable for negligence. Insurance companies know this, which strengthens our position in settlement negotiations.

The Legal Process for Corral City Truck Accident Cases

Immediate Actions (First 48 Hours)

1. Call Attorney911 Immediately – We’ll send a spoliation letter to preserve evidence
2. Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor
3. Document the Scene – Take photos of vehicles, injuries, road conditions
4. Get Witness Information – Names and contact details
5. Do NOT Give Recorded Statements – To any insurance company

Investigation Phase (Days 1-30)

1. Send Spoliation Letters – To trucking company, insurers, and all potentially liable parties
2. Obtain Police Report – From Corral City Police or Denton County Sheriff
3. Preserve Electronic Evidence – ECM, ELD, dashcam, GPS data
4. Interview Witnesses – Before memories fade
5. Photograph Injuries – Document progression of injuries
6. Identify All Liable Parties – Driver, company, cargo owner, etc.

Evidence Gathering Phase (Days 30-90)

1. Subpoena Records – Driver Qualification File, maintenance records, ELD data
2. Obtain Medical Records – From all treating physicians
3. Hire Experts – Accident reconstruction, medical, vocational
4. Analyze Evidence – ECM data, ELD logs, maintenance records
5. Identify FMCSA Violations – Hours of service, maintenance, etc.

Demand and Negotiation Phase (Months 3-12)

1. Calculate Full Damages – Medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering
2. Send Demand Letter – To all liable parties and their insurers
3. Negotiate Settlement – From a position of strength
4. Evaluate Settlement Offers – Never accept first offer
5. Prepare for Litigation – If settlement negotiations fail

Litigation Phase (Months 12-24+)

1. File Lawsuit – Before the 2-year statute of limitations expires
2. Conduct Discovery – Interrogatories, requests for production, depositions
3. Depose Defendants – Truck driver, safety director, maintenance personnel
4. File Motions – To compel evidence, dismiss defenses
5. Prepare for Trial – Jury selection, witness preparation, exhibits

Trial or Settlement

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This preparation creates leverage in settlement negotiations.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Corral City Truck Accident Case

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting trucking companies since 1998. Our firm has handled cases against:

• Walmart trucking operations
• Coca-Cola distribution vehicles
• Amazon delivery trucks
• FedEx trucks
• UPS trucks
• Numerous commercial trucking companies

We understand the tactics trucking companies use to avoid responsibility, and we know how to counter them.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for accident victims.

Federal Court Experience

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

Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions for truck accident victims across Texas, 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 trucking-related wrongful death cases

Local Knowledge of Corral City

We know Corral City’s:

• Trucking corridors and high-risk areas
• Local courts and judges
• Jury pools and what they expect
• Local hospitals and treatment options
• Insurance adjusters and their tactics

Aggressive Evidence Preservation

We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve:

• ECM/Black Box data
• ELD records
• Dashcam footage
• Maintenance records
• Driver Qualification Files

Comprehensive Case Handling

We handle every aspect of your case:

• Medical care coordination
• Evidence preservation
• Expert witness retention
• Settlement negotiations
• Litigation and trial preparation
• Client communication and updates

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation.

What to Do If You’ve Been in a Truck Accident in Corral City

At the Scene

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor
3. Document Everything – Take photos of vehicles, injuries, road conditions
4. Get Information – Truck driver’s name, CDL number, trucking company name, insurance information
5. Collect Witness Information – Names and contact details
6. Do NOT Admit Fault – Even saying “I’m sorry” can be used against you

In the Hospital

1. Follow All Medical Advice – Attend all appointments and follow treatment plans
2. Document Your Injuries – Keep a journal of pain levels, symptoms, and how injuries affect daily life
3. Do NOT Give Recorded Statements – To any insurance company without consulting an attorney
4. Contact Attorney911 – We’ll handle all communications with insurance companies

During Recovery

1. Keep All Medical Appointments – Gaps in treatment hurt your case
2. Follow Treatment Plans – Consistency is key to proving injury severity
3. Document Everything – Medical bills, prescriptions, missed work, impact on daily life
4. Stay Off Social Media – Insurance companies will use your posts against you
5. Communicate with Your Attorney – Keep us updated on your condition and any changes

Frequently Asked Questions About Corral City Truck Accidents

What should I do immediately after a truck accident in Corral City?

Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene, get witness information, and contact Attorney911 immediately. Evidence disappears fast in trucking cases – we’ll send a preservation letter within 24-48 hours to protect your rights.

Who can I sue after a truck accident in Corral City?

Multiple parties may be liable, including:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• The cargo owner
• The loading company
• Truck or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers
• The truck owner (if different from the carrier)

Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?

Usually yes. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for negligent hiring, training, supervision, and maintenance.

What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation as long as you were less than 50% responsible. Our job is to investigate thoroughly and prove what really happened.

What is a truck’s “black box” and how does it help my case?

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data – similar to an airplane’s black box. This data can show:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Throttle position
• GPS location

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) are federally mandated devices that record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued.

How long does the trucking company keep black box and ELD data?

ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention for ELD data. This is why we send spoliation letters immediately – once we notify them of litigation, they must preserve everything.

What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We pursue:

• ECM/Black box data
• ELD records
• Driver Qualification File
• Maintenance records
• Inspection reports
• Dispatch logs
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training records
• Cell phone records
• Insurance policies
• The physical truck and trailer

Can the trucking company destroy evidence?

Once they’re on notice of potential litigation, destroying evidence is spoliation – a serious legal violation. Courts can:

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

What are hours of service regulations and how do violations cause accidents?

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate:

• Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 hours off
• Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
• 30-minute break required after 8 hours driving
• 60/70 hour weekly limits

Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. Drivers who violate these rules are too tired to react safely.

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find:

• Hours of service violations (driving too long)
• False log entries (lying about driving time)
• Brake system deficiencies
• Cargo securement failures
• Drug and alcohol violations
• Unqualified drivers (no valid CDL or medical certificate)
• Failure to inspect vehicles

What is a Driver Qualification File and why does it matter?

FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a file for every driver containing:

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

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

How do pre-trip inspections relate to my accident case?

Drivers must inspect their trucks before every trip. If they failed to conduct inspections or ignored known defects (bad brakes, worn tires, lighting problems), both the driver and company may be liable for negligence.

How much are truck accident cases worth in Corral City?

Case values depend on many factors:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of defendant’s negligence
• Insurance coverage available

Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.

How long do I have to file a truck accident lawsuit in Texas?

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

How long do truck accident cases 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.

Will my truck accident case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.

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.

What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in Corral City?

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

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish
• Funeral expenses
• Punitive damages if gross negligence

Time limits apply – contact us immediately to protect your rights.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Corral City, Texas, call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. Evidence disappears fast in trucking cases – we’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your rights.

Our Corral City truck accident attorneys offer free consultations and work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. With offices serving Denton County and the entire North Texas region, we’re never far from Corral City.

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

Don’t let the trucking company’s lawyers take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for the aggressive representation you deserve.