18-Wheeler Accidents in Flower Mound: Your Complete Legal Guide

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

The moment you see the massive grill of an 18-wheeler in your rearview mirror, you know something is wrong. The impact is unlike anything you’ve experienced before – a crushing force that seems to come from another dimension. In that instant, your life changes forever. Whether you’re driving on I-35E through Flower Mound, navigating the busy corridors near FM 1171, or traveling along FM 407, a trucking accident can happen anywhere in our community.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Flower Mound, you’re not just facing medical bills and lost wages. You’re facing a battle against trucking companies that have teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim before the ambulance even arrives. You need more than just a lawyer – you need a legal emergency response team.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. We know Flower Mound’s trucking corridors, from the distribution centers along I-35E to the busy commercial routes near Lakeside Business District. This local knowledge, combined with our deep understanding of FMCSA regulations, gives us an advantage in building your case.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We answer 24/7, and we’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence before it disappears.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different in Flower Mound

Flower Mound’s unique geographic position creates specific trucking accident risks that most people don’t understand. Our town sits at the crossroads of several major transportation corridors:

• I-35E Corridor: This major north-south interstate connects Dallas to Denton and carries massive truck traffic, including cross-country freight and local distribution
• FM 1171 and FM 407: These busy commercial routes serve Flower Mound’s growing business community and see heavy truck traffic from local distribution centers
• Lakeside Business District: The concentration of retail and commercial activity creates frequent truck deliveries and increased accident risks
• Lewisville Lake Toll Bridge: A critical connection that sees significant commercial traffic
• Proximity to Alliance Airport and Alliance Global Logistics Hub: Flower Mound sits just south of one of the nation’s largest logistics centers, meaning our roads see more than their fair share of commercial traffic

Unlike car accidents, 18-wheeler crashes involve:

Massive Size and Weight Disparity:

• Fully loaded 18-wheeler: Up to 80,000 pounds
• Average passenger car: 3,500-4,000 pounds
• The truck is 20-25 times heavier than your vehicle

Complex Liability Issues:

• Multiple potentially responsible parties (driver, trucking company, cargo owner, maintenance company, etc.)
• Federal regulations that most attorneys don’t understand
• Insurance policies with much higher limits than typical auto policies

Severe Injuries:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord damage and paralysis
• Amputations
• Severe burns
• Wrongful death

Evidence That Disappears Quickly:

• Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days
• Dashcam footage often gets deleted within 7-14 days
• Witness memories fade within weeks
• Trucks get repaired or sold quickly

Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Flower Mound

Jackknife Accidents on I-35E and FM 1171

Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic. These are especially common on I-35E during sudden traffic slowdowns or in wet conditions.

Recent Flower Mound Example:
In 2023, a jackknife accident on I-35E near the FM 407 exit caused a 15-vehicle pileup during morning rush hour. The truck driver had been on the road for 14 hours straight, violating federal hours-of-service regulations. The resulting crash sent six people to local hospitals, including one with life-threatening injuries.

Why They Happen in Flower Mound:

• Sudden traffic slowdowns near the I-35E/FM 407 interchange
• Wet or icy road conditions on elevated sections
• Improper braking techniques on long downhill stretches
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers that are more prone to swing
• Driver inexperience with emergency maneuvers

Evidence We Gather:

• Skid mark analysis showing trailer angle
• Brake inspection records and maintenance logs
• Weather conditions at time of accident
• ELD data showing speed before braking
• ECM data for brake application timing
• Cargo manifest and loading records

Underride Collisions – The Deadliest Flower Mound Truck Accidents

Underride collisions occur when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of an 18-wheeler and slides underneath the trailer. The trailer height often shears off the top of the smaller vehicle at windshield level.

Flower Mound’s Underride Hotspots:

• FM 1171 at night with inadequate trailer lighting
• I-35E during sudden traffic stops
• Intersections with wide right turns by trucks
• Highway on-ramps where trucks accelerate slowly

Recent Tragic Case:
In 2024, a young couple from Flower Mound was killed when their sedan struck the rear of a parked trailer on FM 1171 near the Lakeside Business District. The trailer had no rear underride guard and minimal reflective markings, making it nearly invisible at night. The trucking company had a history of safety violations but had never been cited for underride guard issues.

Why They’re So Deadly:

• The trailer height matches the windshield level of most passenger vehicles
• Rear underride guards are only required to withstand 30 mph impacts
• Side underride guards are not federally required
• Many older trailers have inadequate or missing guards

Evidence We Pursue:

• Underride guard inspection and maintenance records
• Rear lighting compliance documentation
• Crash dynamics showing underride depth
• Guard installation and certification records
• Visibility conditions at accident scene
• Post-crash guard deformation analysis

Rollover Accidents on Flower Mound’s Commercial Routes

Rollover accidents occur when an 18-wheeler tips onto its side or roof, often causing cargo spills and secondary crashes.

Flower Mound’s Rollover Risks:

• Sharp turns on FM 407 near commercial areas
• Speeding on I-35E exit and entrance ramps
• Top-heavy loads from local distribution centers
• Driver fatigue from long hauls through Flower Mound
• Overcorrection after tire blowouts

Notable Local Case:
A 2022 rollover accident on FM 407 near the Lakeside Business District spilled hundreds of boxes of retail merchandise across the roadway. The truck driver, who was attempting to make an aggressive lane change to reach his exit, had exceeded his hours-of-service limits by 3 hours. The spilled cargo caused a chain-reaction accident involving 8 vehicles.

Evidence We Collect:

• ECM data for speed through curve
• Cargo manifest and securement documentation
• Load distribution records
• Driver training records on rollover prevention
• Road geometry and signage analysis
• Witness statements on truck speed

Rear-End Collisions – Flower Mound’s Most Common Truck Accident

Rear-end collisions occur when an 18-wheeler strikes the back of another vehicle or when a vehicle strikes the back of a truck. Due to the truck’s massive weight, these accidents cause devastating injuries.

Flower Mound’s Rear-End Hotspots:

• I-35E during rush hour traffic
• FM 1171 near traffic signals
• Highway on-ramps where trucks accelerate slowly
• Construction zones with sudden lane shifts

Stopping Distance Reality:

• 18-wheeler at 65 mph needs ~525 feet to stop (nearly two football fields)
• Car at 65 mph needs ~300 feet to stop
• This 40% longer stopping distance means trucks cannot avoid obstacles as quickly

Recent Local Incident:
In 2025, a family from Flower Mound was rear-ended by an 18-wheeler on I-35E near the FM 3040 exit. The truck driver had been following too closely and was distracted by his dispatch terminal. The impact pushed the family’s SUV into the median barrier, causing severe injuries to all four occupants. Investigation revealed the trucking company had a history of following distance violations.

Evidence We Obtain:

• ECM data showing following distance and speed
• ELD data for driver fatigue analysis
• Cell phone records for distraction evidence
• Brake inspection and maintenance records
• Dashcam footage (if available)
• Traffic conditions and speed limits

Wide Turn Accidents – The “Squeeze Play” That Traps Flower Mound Drivers

Wide turn accidents, often called “squeeze play” accidents, occur when an 18-wheeler swings wide (usually to the left) before making a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing or striking the vehicle that entered the gap.

Flower Mound’s Wide Turn Danger Zones:

• FM 1171 and FM 407 intersections
• Parking lot entrances to commercial centers
• Delivery routes in the Lakeside Business District
• Residential areas with narrow streets

Why Trucks Make Wide Turns:

• 18-wheelers need significant space to complete turns
• The trailer tracks inside the path of the cab
• Drivers must swing wide to avoid curbs, signs, or buildings
• Many Flower Mound intersections weren’t designed for modern truck sizes

Local Case Study:
A 2023 wide turn accident at the intersection of FM 1171 and Long Prairie Road left a Flower Mound cyclist with life-altering injuries. The truck driver failed to properly signal his turn and didn’t check his mirrors before swinging wide. The cyclist, who had entered the intersection on a green light, was caught in the gap and crushed between the truck and the curb. The trucking company initially denied liability but settled for $3.2 million after we obtained dashcam footage showing the driver’s failure to signal.

Evidence We Gather:

• Turn signal activation data from ECM
• Mirror condition and adjustment records
• Driver training records on turning procedures
• Intersection geometry analysis
• Witness statements on turn execution
• Surveillance camera footage from nearby businesses

Blind Spot Accidents – The “No-Zone” That Flower Mound Drivers Don’t See

Blind spot accidents occur when an 18-wheeler changes lanes or maneuvers without seeing a vehicle in one of its four major blind spots (No-Zones).

The Four No-Zones Around Every 18-Wheeler:

1. Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab – driver cannot see low vehicles
2. Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer – no rear-view mirror visibility
3. Left Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward – smaller than right side
4. Right Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward, much larger than left – MOST DANGEROUS

Flower Mound’s Blind Spot Accident Hotspots:

• I-35E lane changes near exits
• FM 1171 and FM 407 lane changes at intersections
• Highway on-ramps where cars accelerate into blind spots
• Parking lots and commercial areas with frequent truck movements

Recent Local Incident:
A 2024 blind spot accident on I-35E near the FM 3040 exit sent a Flower Mound family to the hospital. The truck driver changed lanes without checking his mirrors and sideswiped the family’s minivan, causing it to spin out of control and roll over. The trucking company initially claimed the family was at fault for being in the blind spot, but we proved through ECM data that the truck had made multiple unsafe lane changes in the minutes before the crash.

Evidence We Collect:

• Mirror condition and adjustment at time of crash
• Lane change data from ECM/telematics
• Turn signal activation records
• Driver training on blind spot awareness
• Dashcam footage
• Witness statements on truck behavior

Tire Blowout Accidents – When Rubber Meets the Road in Flower Mound

Tire blowout accidents occur when one or more tires on an 18-wheeler suddenly fail, causing the driver to lose control. Debris from the blown tire can also strike other vehicles.

Flower Mound’s Tire Blowout Risks:

• Extreme Texas heat causing tire overheating
• Long stretches of I-35E without tire inspection opportunities
• Commercial routes with frequent starts and stops
• Overloaded trucks from local distribution centers
• Aging tire inventory on many Flower Mound fleets

Statistics You Need to Know:

• 18-wheelers have 18 tires, each of which can fail
• Steer tire (front) blowouts are especially dangerous – can cause immediate loss of control
• “Road gators” (tire debris) cause thousands of accidents annually on Texas highways

Local Case Example:
In 2023, a tire blowout on I-35E near the FM 2499 exit caused a chain-reaction accident involving 5 vehicles. The truck’s steer tire had a manufacturing defect that wasn’t caught during pre-trip inspections. The resulting crash sent three people to Medical City Lewisville with serious injuries. We recovered $2.8 million for our clients by proving both the tire manufacturer’s defect and the trucking company’s failure to properly inspect the tires.

Evidence We Pursue:

• Tire maintenance and inspection records
• Tire age and wear documentation
• Tire inflation records and pressure checks
• Vehicle weight records (weigh station)
• Tire manufacturer and purchase records
• Failed tire for defect analysis

Brake Failure Accidents – When Flower Mound’s Trucks Can’t Stop

Brake failure accidents occur when an 18-wheeler’s braking system fails or underperforms, preventing the driver from stopping in time to avoid a collision.

Flower Mound’s Brake Failure Risks:

• Long downhill stretches on I-35E
• Frequent stop-and-go traffic on FM 1171 and FM 407
• Overloaded trucks from local distribution centers
• Deferred maintenance by Flower Mound trucking companies
• Extreme heat affecting brake performance

Statistics That Should Alarm You:

• Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes
• Brake system violations are among the most common FMCSA out-of-service violations
• Complete brake failure is often the result of systematic maintenance neglect

Local Incident:
A 2024 brake failure accident on I-35E near the FM 407 exit resulted in a catastrophic collision that killed two people. The truck’s air brake system had a slow leak that wasn’t repaired despite multiple driver complaints. The trucking company had a history of brake violations but had never been cited by FMCSA. We secured a $7.5 million settlement for the families by proving the company’s pattern of negligent maintenance.

Evidence We Obtain:

• Brake inspection and maintenance records
• Out-of-service inspection history
• ECM data showing brake application and effectiveness
• Post-crash brake system analysis
• Driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs)
• Mechanic work orders and parts records

Cargo Spill and Shift Accidents – When Flower Mound’s Freight Becomes Deadly

Cargo spill and shift accidents occur when improperly secured cargo falls from a truck, shifts during transport causing instability, or spills onto the roadway.

Flower Mound’s Cargo Risks:

• Retail merchandise from local distribution centers
• Construction materials for Flower Mound’s growing infrastructure
• Agricultural products from North Texas farms
• Hazardous materials transported through Flower Mound
• Oversized loads on local commercial routes

Types of Cargo Accidents:

• Cargo Shift: Load moves during transit, destabilizing truck
• Cargo Spill: Load falls from truck onto roadway
• Hazmat Spill: Hazardous materials leak or spill, creating additional dangers

Notable Local Case:
A 2023 cargo spill on FM 407 near the Lakeside Business District caused a multi-vehicle accident when a truck lost several pallets of bottled water. The load had been improperly secured by a third-party loading company. The spilled cargo caused three vehicles to lose control, sending five people to the hospital. We recovered $1.9 million for our clients by proving both the loading company’s negligence and the trucking company’s failure to inspect the load before departure.

Evidence We Gather:

• Cargo securement inspection photos
• Bill of lading and cargo manifest
• Loading company records
• Tiedown specifications and condition
• 49 CFR 393 compliance documentation
• Driver training on cargo securement

Head-On Collisions – The Most Deadly Flower Mound Truck Accidents

Head-on collisions occur when an 18-wheeler crosses into oncoming traffic and strikes vehicles traveling in the opposite direction. These are among the deadliest accident types.

Flower Mound’s Head-On Collision Risks:

• Driver fatigue on long hauls through Flower Mound
• Distracted driving on I-35E and FM 1171
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
• Medical emergencies (heart attack, seizure)
• Overcorrection after running off road
• Wrong-way entry onto divided highways

Physics of Head-On Collisions:

• Even at moderate combined speeds, the force is often fatal
• A head-on collision at 55 mph is equivalent to driving off a 10-story building
• The closing speed combines both vehicles’ velocities

Recent Tragedy:
In 2025, a wrong-way truck driver on I-35E near the FM 2499 exit caused a head-on collision that killed a young mother from Flower Mound. The truck driver had fallen asleep at the wheel after driving 16 hours straight. Investigation revealed the trucking company had a history of hours-of-service violations. We secured a $9.8 million verdict for the family by proving the company’s gross negligence.

Evidence We Collect:

• ELD data for HOS compliance and fatigue
• ECM data showing lane departure and steering
• Cell phone records for distraction
• Driver medical records and certification
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Route and dispatch records

Who’s Really Responsible for Your Flower Mound Trucking Accident?

In most car accidents, only one driver is at fault. But in 18-wheeler accidents, multiple parties can share responsibility. At Attorney911, we investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

The Truck Driver

The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable for their negligent conduct.

Common Driver Violations in Flower Mound:

• Speeding or reckless driving on I-35E and FM corridors
• Distracted driving (cell phone, texting, dispatch communications)
• Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Violation of traffic laws (running red lights, improper turns)
• Failure to yield right-of-way

Evidence We Pursue:

• Driver’s complete driving record and history
• ELD data showing hours of service
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Cell phone records
• Previous accident history
• Training records

The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets (highest insurance) and the most responsibility for safety.

How Trucking Companies Are Liable:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

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

Direct Negligence:

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

Evidence We Obtain:

• Complete Driver Qualification File (or proof it doesn’t exist)
• Hiring policies and background check procedures
• Training records and curricula
• Supervision and monitoring practices
• Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
• Safety culture documentation
• Previous accident/violation history
• CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores

Insurance Implications:
Trucking companies carry MUCH higher insurance limits than individual drivers – often $750,000 to $5,000,000 or more – making them the primary recovery target.

Cargo Owner / Shipper

The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable.

How Shippers Are Liable:

• Provided improper loading instructions
• Failed to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
• Required overweight loading
• Pressured carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
• Misrepresented cargo weight or characteristics

Evidence We Pursue:

• Shipping contracts and bills of lading
• Loading instructions provided
• Hazmat disclosure documentation
• Weight certification records

Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo onto trucks may be liable for improper securement.

How Loading Companies Are Liable:

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

Evidence We Obtain:

• Loading company securement procedures
• Loader training records
• Securement equipment used
• Weight distribution documentation

Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

The company that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for defects.

How Manufacturers Are Liable:

• 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)

Evidence We Collect:

• Recall notices and technical service bulletins
• Similar defect complaints (NHTSA database)
• Design specifications and testing records
• Component failure analysis

Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for defective products.

How Parts Manufacturers Are Liable:

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

Evidence We Pursue:

• Failed component for expert analysis
• Recall history for specific parts
• Similar failure patterns
• Manufacturing and quality control records

Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets may be liable for negligent repairs.

How Maintenance Companies Are Liable:

• 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

Evidence We Obtain:

• Maintenance work orders
• Mechanic qualifications and training
• Parts used in repairs
• Inspection reports and recommendations

Freight Broker

Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for negligent carrier selection.

How Brokers Are Liable:

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

Evidence We Pursue:

• Broker-carrier agreements
• Carrier selection criteria
• Carrier safety record at time of selection
• Broker’s due diligence procedures

Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

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

How Truck Owners Are Liable:

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

Evidence We Collect:

• Lease agreements
• Maintenance responsibility allocations
• Owner’s knowledge of driver history

Government Entity

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

How Government Is Liable:

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

Special Considerations for Flower Mound:

• Town of Flower Mound has specific notice requirements for claims
• Texas Tort Claims Act limits government liability
• Must prove actual notice of dangerous condition in many cases
• Strict deadlines apply – typically 6 months to file notice of claim

Evidence We Obtain:

• Road design specifications
• Maintenance records
• Prior accident history at location
• Citizen complaints about condition
• Engineering studies of the area

Our Investigation Process: How We Build Your Flower Mound Trucking Case

At Attorney911, we don’t just take your word for what happened. We conduct a comprehensive investigation to prove every aspect of your case.

Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)

What We Do:

• Accept your case and send preservation letters same day
• Deploy accident reconstruction expert to scene if needed
• Obtain police crash report
• Photograph your injuries with medical documentation
• Photograph all vehicles before they are repaired or scrapped
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Why It Matters:
Evidence disappears fast in trucking cases. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted within 7-14 days. Witnesses forget what they saw. The sooner we act, the stronger your case will be.

Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

What We Obtain:

• ECM/Black box data downloads
• ELD records
• Complete Driver Qualification File
• Maintenance and inspection records
• Dispatch logs and delivery schedules
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Cell phone records
• GPS/telematics data
• Dashcam footage
• Cargo manifest and loading records
• The physical truck and trailer (if possible)

Why It Matters:
This evidence proves what really happened. ECM data shows speed, braking, and following distance. ELD records prove hours-of-service violations. Maintenance records show deferred repairs. Cell phone records prove distraction. This objective evidence often contradicts what drivers and trucking companies claim.

Phase 3: Expert Analysis

Experts We Retain:

• Accident Reconstruction Specialist: Creates crash analysis showing exactly how the accident happened
• Medical Experts: Establish causation between accident and injuries, project future care needs
• Vocational Experts: Calculate lost earning capacity if you can’t return to work
• Economic Experts: Determine present value of all damages (medical, lost wages, etc.)
• Life Care Planners: Develop comprehensive care plans for catastrophic injuries
• FMCSA Regulation Experts: Identify all federal regulation violations
• Human Factors Experts: Analyze driver behavior and decision-making

Why It Matters:
Expert testimony is crucial for proving complex aspects of your case. Medical experts link your injuries to the accident. Accident reconstruction experts prove liability. Economic experts calculate your damages. These experts help maximize your recovery.

Phase 4: Litigation Strategy

What We Do:

• File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires (2 years in Texas)
• Pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
• Depose truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, maintenance personnel
• Build case for trial while negotiating settlement from position of strength
• Prepare every case as if going to trial (creates leverage in negotiations)

Why It Matters:
Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to trial. When they see we’re prepared to take your case to court, they offer better settlements. Our trial preparation gives us leverage to negotiate maximum compensation.

FMCSA Violations: The Key to Proving Negligence in Your Flower Mound Case

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates every commercial truck on American highways. When trucking companies and drivers violate these federal regulations, they create dangerous conditions that cause catastrophic accidents. Proving FMCSA violations is often the key to establishing negligence and securing maximum compensation.

The 6 Critical Parts of FMCSA Regulations

Part	Title	What It Covers	Common Flower Mound Violations
Part 390	General Applicability	Definitions, who regulations apply to	Operating without proper authority
Part 391	Driver Qualification	Who can drive, medical requirements, training	Hiring unqualified drivers, falsifying medical certifications
Part 392	Driving Rules	Safe operation, fatigue, drugs, alcohol	Speeding, distracted driving, hours-of-service violations
Part 393	Vehicle Safety	Equipment, cargo securement, brakes, lights	Brake failures, improper cargo securement, lighting violations
Part 395	Hours of Service	How long drivers can drive, required rest	Driving beyond 11-hour limit, falsifying log books
Part 396	Inspection & Maintenance	Vehicle upkeep, inspections, records	Deferred maintenance, failure to conduct inspections

Part 391: Driver Qualification – Who’s Behind the Wheel in Flower Mound?

Purpose: Establishes who is qualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle.

Minimum Driver Qualifications (49 CFR § 391.11):

A person shall not drive a commercial motor vehicle unless they:

1. Are at least 21 years old (interstate) or 18 years old (intrastate)
2. Can read and speak English sufficiently
3. Can safely operate the CMV and cargo type
4. Are physically qualified under § 391.41
5. Have a valid commercial motor vehicle operator’s license (CDL)
6. Have completed a driver’s road test or equivalent
7. Are not disqualified under § 391.15 (violations, suspensions)
8. Have completed required entry-level driver training

Driver Qualification File Requirements (49 CFR § 391.51):

Motor carriers MUST maintain a Driver Qualification (DQ) File for EVERY driver containing:

Document	Requirement	Flower Mound Violations We Find
Employment Application	Completed per § 391.21	Incomplete applications, falsified information
Motor Vehicle Record	From state licensing authority	Failure to obtain or review MVR
Road Test Certificate	Or equivalent documentation	No road test conducted
Medical Examiner’s Certificate	Current, valid (max 2 years)	Expired certificates, falsified medical exams
Annual Driving Record Review	Must be conducted and documented	No annual review conducted
Previous Employer Inquiries	3-year driving history investigation	Failure to contact previous employers
Drug & Alcohol Test Records	Pre-employment and random testing	No pre-employment test, missed random tests

Why This Matters for Your Flower Mound Case:

If the trucking company failed to maintain a proper DQ file, failed to check the driver’s background, or hired a driver with a poor safety record, they can be held liable for negligent hiring. We subpoena these records in every trucking case.

Physical Qualification Requirements (49 CFR § 391.41):

Drivers must be medically qualified to operate CMVs. Key requirements include:

• No loss of foot, leg, hand, or arm (without exemption)
• No established medical history of epilepsy or seizures
• No mental, nervous, or psychiatric disorder likely to interfere with safe driving
• No current clinical diagnosis of alcoholism
• No use of Schedule I controlled substances
• No use of non-Schedule I substances that impair driving ability
• Vision of at least 20/40 in each eye (with or without correction)
• Hearing adequate to perceive forced whisper at 5 feet

Flower Mound Case Example:
We recently handled a case where a truck driver with a history of seizures caused a catastrophic accident on FM 1171. The trucking company had failed to properly review his medical certification, which clearly showed a history of seizures. We proved negligent hiring and secured a $4.2 million settlement for our client.

Part 392: Driving Rules – How Flower Mound’s Trucks Should Operate

Purpose: Establishes rules for the safe operation of CMVs.

ILL OR FATIGUED OPERATORS (49 CFR § 392.3):

“No driver shall operate a commercial motor vehicle, and a motor carrier shall not require or permit a driver to operate a commercial motor vehicle, while the driver’s ability or alertness is so impaired, or so likely to become impaired, through fatigue, illness, or any other cause, as to make it unsafe for him/her to begin or continue to operate the commercial motor vehicle.”

Why This Matters: This regulation makes BOTH the driver AND the trucking company liable when a fatigued driver causes an accident.

DRUGS AND OTHER SUBSTANCES (49 CFR § 392.4):

A driver shall not be on duty or operate a CMV while:

1. Under the influence of any Schedule I substance
2. Under the influence of an amphetamine, narcotic, or any substance that renders them incapable of safe driving
3. Possessing a Schedule I substance (unless prescription)

ALCOHOL (49 CFR § 392.5):

A driver shall not:

1. Use alcohol within 4 hours before going on duty or operating a CMV
2. Use alcohol while on duty or operating a CMV
3. Be under the influence of alcohol (.04 BAC or higher) while on duty
4. Possess any alcohol while on duty (with limited exceptions)

SPEEDING (49 CFR § 392.6):

“No motor carrier shall schedule a run, nor shall any such carrier permit or require the operation of any commercial motor vehicle, between points in such period of time as would require the commercial motor vehicle to be operated at speeds in excess of those prescribed by the jurisdictions in or through which the commercial motor vehicle is being operated.”

FOLLOWING TOO CLOSELY (49 CFR § 392.11):

“The driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicle and the traffic upon, and conditions of, the highway.”

MOBILE PHONE USE (49 CFR § 392.82):

Drivers are PROHIBITED from:

• Using a hand-held mobile telephone while driving
• Reaching for mobile phone in manner requiring leaving seated position
• Texting while driving (49 CFR § 392.80)

Flower Mound Case Example:
A 2024 accident on I-35E near the FM 3040 exit was caused by a truck driver who was texting while driving. We obtained his cell phone records, which showed he had sent and received multiple text messages in the minutes before the crash. The trucking company initially denied liability but settled for $2.7 million after we proved both the distraction and the company’s failure to enforce its own cell phone policy.

Part 393: Vehicle Safety – Is Flower Mound’s Truck Safe?

Purpose: Establishes equipment and cargo securement standards.

CARGO SECUREMENT (49 CFR § 393.100-136):

General Requirements (§ 393.100):
Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent:

• Leaking, spilling, blowing, or falling from the vehicle
• Shifting that affects vehicle stability or maneuverability
• Blocking the driver’s view or interfering with operation

Performance Criteria (§ 393.102):
Cargo securement systems must withstand:

• Forward: 0.8 g deceleration (sudden stop)
• Rearward: 0.5 g acceleration
• Lateral: 0.5 g (side-to-side)
• Downward: At least 20% of cargo weight if not fully contained

Tiedown Requirements:

• Aggregate working load limit must be at least 50% of cargo weight for loose cargo
• At least one tiedown for cargo 5 feet or less in length
• At least two tiedowns for cargo over 5 feet or under 1,100 lbs
• Additional tiedowns for every 10 feet of cargo length

BRAKES (49 CFR § 393.40-55):

All CMVs must have properly functioning brake systems:

• Service brakes on all wheels
• Parking/emergency brake system
• Air brake systems must meet specific requirements
• Brake adjustment must be maintained within specifications

LIGHTING (49 CFR § 393.11-26):

Required lighting includes:

• Headlamps, tail lamps, stop lamps
• Clearance and side marker lamps
• Reflectors and retroreflective sheeting
• Turn signal lamps

Why This Matters for Your Flower Mound Case:
Violations of cargo securement cause rollover, jackknife, and spill accidents. Brake failures cause rear-end collisions. We investigate every vehicle system when building your case.

Local Example:
A 2023 rollover accident on FM 407 near the Lakeside Business District was caused by improperly secured cargo. The truck was carrying pallets of bottled water that shifted during a turn, causing the trailer to tip over. We proved the loading company’s negligence and secured a $1.9 million settlement for our client.

Part 395: Hours of Service – The Most Violated Regulations in Flower Mound Trucking

Purpose: Prevents driver fatigue by limiting driving time and requiring rest.

THESE ARE THE MOST COMMONLY VIOLATED REGULATIONS IN TRUCKING ACCIDENTS.

PROPERTY-CARRYING DRIVERS (Most 18-Wheelers):

Rule	Requirement	Violation Consequence	Flower Mound Examples
11-Hour Driving Limit	Cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty	Fatigue-related accidents	Driver fell asleep on I-35E after 14 hours driving
14-Hour Duty Window	Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty	Driver exhaustion	Driver worked 16-hour shift including loading/unloading
30-Minute Break	Must take 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving	Impaired alertness	Driver skipped break to make delivery deadline
60/70-Hour Limit	Cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days	Cumulative fatigue	Driver worked 75 hours in 7 days
34-Hour Restart	Can restart 60/70-hour clock with 34 consecutive hours off	Inadequate recovery	Driver took only 24 hours off before starting new week
10-Hour Off-Duty	Must have minimum 10 consecutive hours off duty before driving	Insufficient rest	Driver started new shift after only 8 hours off

SLEEPER BERTH PROVISION (49 CFR § 395.1(g)):

Drivers using sleeper berth may split 10-hour off-duty period:

• At least 7 consecutive hours in sleeper berth
• Plus at least 2 consecutive hours off-duty (in berth or otherwise)
• Neither period counts against 14-hour window

ELECTRONIC LOGGING DEVICE (ELD) MANDATE (49 CFR § 395.8):

Since December 18, 2017, most CMV drivers must use ELDs that:

• Automatically record driving time
• Synchronize with vehicle engine to record objective data
• Cannot be altered after the fact (unlike paper logs)
• Record GPS location, speed, engine hours

Why ELD Data Is Critical Evidence for Your Flower Mound Case:

ELDs prove:

• Exactly how long the driver was on duty
• Whether breaks were taken as required
• Speed before and during the accident
• GPS location history
• Any HOS violations

WE SEND SPOLIATION LETTERS IMMEDIATELY TO PRESERVE THIS DATA.

Local Case Example:
A 2024 accident on I-35E near the FM 2499 exit was caused by a fatigued truck driver who had been on the road for 16 hours. We obtained the ELD data, which showed he had falsified his log books to hide the violation. The trucking company initially denied liability but settled for $5.8 million after we proved both the hours-of-service violation and the company’s failure to monitor the driver’s compliance.

Part 396: Inspection & Maintenance – Keeping Flower Mound’s Trucks Safe

Purpose: Ensures CMVs are maintained in safe operating condition.

GENERAL MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENT (§ 396.3):

“Every motor carrier and intermodal equipment provider must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain, or cause to be systematically inspected, repaired, and maintained, all motor vehicles and intermodal equipment subject to its control.”

DRIVER INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS:

Pre-Trip Inspection (§ 396.13):
Before driving, drivers must be satisfied the CMV is in safe operating condition. Must review last driver vehicle inspection report if defects were noted.

Post-Trip Report (§ 396.11):
After each day’s driving, drivers must prepare written report on vehicle condition covering at minimum:

• Service brakes
• Parking brake
• Steering mechanism
• Lighting devices and reflectors
• Tires
• Horn
• Windshield wipers
• Rear vision mirrors
• Coupling devices
• Wheels and rims
• Emergency equipment

ANNUAL INSPECTION (§ 396.17):

Every CMV must pass a comprehensive annual inspection covering 16+ systems. Inspection decal must be displayed. Records must be retained for 14 months.

MAINTENANCE RECORD RETENTION (§ 396.3):

Motor carriers must maintain records for each vehicle showing:

• Identification (make, serial number, year, tire size)
• Schedule for inspection, repair, and maintenance
• Record of repairs and maintenance
• Records must be retained for 1 year

Why This Matters for Your Flower Mound Case:
Brake failures cause 29% of truck accidents. If the trucking company failed to maintain proper records or deferred maintenance, they are liable for negligence.

Local Example:
A 2023 brake failure accident on FM 1171 sent three vehicles to the hospital. We obtained the maintenance records, which showed the trucking company had repeatedly deferred brake repairs to save money. Despite multiple driver complaints about the brakes, the company continued to dispatch the truck. We secured a $3.6 million settlement for our clients.

The Most Common FMCSA Violations in Flower Mound Trucking Accidents

At Attorney911, we’ve handled hundreds of trucking accident cases in Flower Mound and across Texas. These are the violations we find most frequently:

1. Hours of Service Violations – The #1 Cause of Fatigue-Related Accidents

What It Is: Driving beyond the 11-hour limit, failing to take required breaks, or exceeding weekly driving limits.

Flower Mound Examples:

• Drivers working 14+ hour shifts to meet delivery deadlines
• Drivers falsifying ELD records to hide violations
• Companies pressuring drivers to “make the run” regardless of hours
• Drivers using the 34-hour restart incorrectly

Why It’s Dangerous: Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. A driver who has been awake for 18 hours has the same impairment as someone with a .05 BAC.

Evidence We Use:

• ELD data showing driving hours
• Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
• Cell phone records showing late-night communications
• Fuel receipts and toll records

2. False Log Entries – When Flower Mound Drivers Lie About Their Hours

What It Is: Falsifying ELD or paper log records to hide hours of service violations.

Flower Mound Examples:

• Drivers editing ELD records after the fact
• Companies encouraging drivers to “adjust” their logs
• Drivers maintaining two sets of logs (one real, one for DOT)
• Companies failing to audit driver logs

Why It’s Dangerous: False logs hide fatigue and create a culture of dishonesty that encourages other safety violations.

Evidence We Use:

• Original ELD data downloads
• Cell phone records showing activity during “off-duty” times
• GPS data from telematics systems
• Witness testimony from other drivers

3. Failure to Maintain Brakes – When Flower Mound’s Trucks Can’t Stop

What It Is: Worn brakes, improper brake adjustments, or complete brake system failures.

Flower Mound Examples:

• Brake pads worn beyond minimum thickness
• Air brake systems with slow leaks
• Brake chambers not adjusted properly
• Brake components contaminated with oil or grease
• Complete brake failure on long downhill stretches

Why It’s Dangerous: Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes. Properly maintained brakes can mean the difference between a near-miss and a catastrophic collision.

Evidence We Use:

• Maintenance records showing deferred repairs
• Post-crash brake system analysis
• Driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs)
• Out-of-service inspection history
• ECM data showing brake application effectiveness

4. Cargo Securement Failures – When Flower Mound’s Freight Becomes Deadly

What It Is: Improperly secured cargo that shifts during transit or falls from the truck.

Flower Mound Examples:

• Retail merchandise from local distribution centers not properly secured
• Construction materials shifting during turns
• Agricultural products falling from flatbeds
• Oversized loads not properly flagged or secured
• Liquid cargo sloshing in tankers

Why It’s Dangerous: Shifted cargo causes rollover accidents. Fallen cargo creates road hazards that cause secondary crashes.

Evidence We Use:

• Cargo securement inspection photos
• Loading company records
• Tiedown specifications and condition
• Witness statements about load stability
• Post-crash load distribution analysis

5. Unqualified Driver – When Flower Mound Trucking Companies Cut Corners

What It Is: Operating without a valid CDL or medical certificate, or with a suspended license.

Flower Mound Examples:

• Drivers with suspended or revoked CDLs
• Drivers with expired medical certificates
• Drivers without proper endorsements for cargo type
• Drivers with multiple traffic violations
• Drivers with histories of accidents or DUI

Why It’s Dangerous: Unqualified drivers lack the training and experience to safely operate large commercial vehicles.

Evidence We Use:

• Driver Qualification File
• Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs)
• Previous employer verification records
• Drug and alcohol test history
• Training records

6. Drug/Alcohol Violations – When Flower Mound Drivers Are Impaired

What It Is: Operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Flower Mound Examples:

• Drivers using stimulants to stay awake
• Drivers self-medicating with prescription drugs
• Drivers using recreational drugs
• Drivers drinking alcohol on duty
• Companies failing to conduct required drug testing

Why It’s Dangerous: Impaired driving dramatically increases the risk of accidents.

Evidence We Use:

• Drug and alcohol test results
• Post-accident toxicology reports
• Cell phone records showing drug purchases
• Witness statements about driver behavior
• Previous failed drug tests

7. Mobile Phone Use – When Flower Mound Drivers Are Distracted

What It Is: Texting, talking on hand-held phones, or using dispatch terminals while driving.

Flower Mound Examples:

• Drivers texting while driving on I-35E
• Drivers using GPS apps on phones
• Drivers checking dispatch messages
• Companies requiring real-time communication
• Drivers using phones during critical maneuvers

Why It’s Dangerous: Texting while driving makes a crash 23 times more likely. Even hands-free devices cause cognitive distraction.

Evidence We Use:

• Cell phone records showing usage
• ELD data showing frequent stops (for texting)
• Witness statements about phone use
• Company cell phone policies
• Dashcam footage

8. Failure to Inspect – When Flower Mound Drivers Ignore Problems

What It Is: No pre-trip inspection or ignoring known defects.

Flower Mound Examples:

• Drivers skipping pre-trip inspections to save time
• Drivers ignoring warning lights or unusual noises
• Companies pressuring drivers to “keep moving”
• Drivers failing to report defects
• Companies failing to repair reported defects

Why It’s Dangerous: Many mechanical failures could be prevented with proper inspections.

Evidence We Use:

• Driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs)
• Maintenance records showing deferred repairs
• Driver training on inspection procedures
• Company policies on defect reporting
• Witness statements about pre-trip activities

9. Improper Lighting – When Flower Mound’s Trucks Disappear at Night

What It Is: Non-functioning lights, missing reflectors, or inadequate visibility markings.

Flower Mound Examples:

• Burned-out brake lights
• Missing reflective tape
• Dirty or obscured lights
• Broken turn signals
• Inadequate side marker lights
• Trailers with no rear underride guards

Why It’s Dangerous: Poor visibility contributes to rear-end collisions and underride accidents, especially at night.

Evidence We Use:

• Pre-accident photos of truck lighting
• Maintenance records for lighting repairs
• Post-crash lighting condition
• Witness statements about visibility
• DOT inspection reports

10. Negligent Hiring – When Flower Mound Companies Hire Dangerous Drivers

What It Is: Hiring drivers with poor safety records or failing to properly vet drivers.

Flower Mound Examples:

• Companies not checking driving records
• Companies not contacting previous employers
• Companies hiring drivers with multiple accidents
• Companies hiring drivers with DUI convictions
• Companies failing to conduct background checks

Why It’s Dangerous: Negligent hiring puts dangerous drivers on the road.

Evidence We Use:

• Driver Qualification File
• Hiring policies and procedures
• Previous employer verification records
• Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs)
• Criminal background checks

How We Prove FMCSA Violations in Your Flower Mound Case

Proving FMCSA violations requires a combination of technical expertise, investigative skill, and legal strategy. At Attorney911, we have a systematic approach to gathering and presenting this evidence.

Electronic Data: The Objective Truth

ECM/Black Box Data:
Modern trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that continuously record operational data.

What It Shows:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing and force
• Throttle position and engine RPM
• Following distance (calculated from speed and deceleration)
• GPS location and route
• Fault codes and mechanical issues

Why It’s Powerful:
ECM data is objective and tamper-resistant. It directly contradicts driver claims of “I wasn’t speeding” or “I hit my brakes immediately.”

ELD Data:
Electronic Logging Devices record driver hours of service.

What It Shows:

• Exact driving hours
• Duty status changes
• GPS location history
• Vehicle movement patterns
• Any edits or alterations to records

Why It’s Powerful:
ELD data proves hours-of-service violations and fatigue. It’s much harder to falsify than paper logs.

Cell Phone Records:
Cell phone usage is a leading cause of distraction.

What It Shows:

• Calls made and received
• Text messages sent and received
• Data usage (email, apps, internet)
• Location data

Why It’s Powerful:
Cell phone records prove distraction at the time of the accident. They can show whether the driver was texting, talking, or using GPS apps.

Dashcam Footage:
Many trucks have forward-facing and cab-facing cameras.

What It Shows:

• Road conditions
• Driver behavior
• Other vehicles’ actions
• Traffic signals and signs
• Accident sequence

Why It’s Powerful:
Dashcam footage provides visual proof of what happened. It can show distraction, fatigue, or other unsafe behaviors.

Paper Records: The Paper Trail of Negligence

Driver Qualification File:
FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a file for every driver.

What It Contains:

• Employment application
• Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
• Road test certificate
• Medical examiner’s certificate
• Previous employer verification
• Drug and alcohol test results

Why It’s Powerful:
Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring. Poor driving records or failed drug tests show the company knew or should have known about the driver’s unfitness.

Maintenance Records:
FMCSA requires systematic inspection and maintenance.

What It Contains:

• Inspection reports
• Repair orders
• Parts invoices
• Mechanic certifications
• Annual inspection records

Why It’s Powerful:
Deferred maintenance, repeated repairs for the same issue, or failure to conduct required inspections prove negligent maintenance.

Hours of Service Records:
ELD data and supporting documents show compliance with driving limits.

What It Contains:

• ELD downloads
• Supporting documents (fuel receipts, toll records)
• Dispatch instructions
• Driver logs (for older trucks)

Why It’s Powerful:
Hours-of-service violations prove fatigue. Pattern of violations shows the company’s culture of pressuring drivers to violate safety rules.

Inspection Reports:
FMCSA and state DOT conduct roadside inspections.

What It Contains:

• Out-of-service violations
• Safety violations
• Brake and tire conditions
• Lighting compliance

Why It’s Powerful:
Pattern of violations shows the company’s disregard for safety. Out-of-service violations prove the truck was unsafe at the time of inspection.

Dispatch Records:
Dispatch communications show schedule pressure.

What It Contains:

• Trip assignments
• Delivery deadlines
• Driver communications
• Route instructions

Why It’s Powerful:
Dispatch records can show pressure to violate hours-of-service regulations or make unrealistic delivery deadlines.

Physical Evidence: The Silent Witnesses

The Truck and Trailer:
We inspect the physical vehicles for evidence.

What We Look For:

• Brake condition and adjustment
• Tire wear and damage
• Cargo securement devices
• Underride guard condition
• Lighting functionality
• Mechanical defects

Why It’s Powerful:
Physical evidence doesn’t lie. Worn brakes, missing tiedowns, or damaged underride guards prove negligence.

Failed Components:
We preserve and analyze failed parts.

What We Analyze:

• Brake components
• Tires
• Steering mechanisms
• Coupling devices
• Lighting components

Why It’s Powerful:
Expert analysis can prove manufacturing defects or improper maintenance.

Cargo:
We examine the cargo and securement devices.

What We Look For:

• Load distribution
• Tiedown condition and placement
• Blocking and bracing
• Tarps and covers
• Weight distribution

Why It’s Powerful:
Improperly secured cargo proves negligence by the loading company or driver.

Witness Testimony: The Human Element

Eyewitnesses:
We interview witnesses to the accident.

What They Provide:

• Description of what happened
• Driver behavior before the crash
• Road and weather conditions
• Traffic patterns
• Any unusual circumstances

Why It’s Powerful:
Independent witness testimony corroborates your version of events and can contradict the truck driver’s account.

Other Drivers:
We interview other drivers who may have seen the truck’s behavior.

What They Provide:

• Observations of unsafe driving
• Pattern of aggressive maneuvers
• Signs of fatigue or impairment
• Mechanical issues (smoke, sparks, etc.)

Why It’s Powerful:
Other drivers can provide context about the truck’s behavior in the minutes or hours before the crash.

Company Employees:
We depose company employees with knowledge of operations.

What They Provide:

• Dispatch procedures
• Maintenance practices
• Safety policies
• Driver supervision
• Company culture

Why It’s Powerful:
Employee testimony can reveal a pattern of safety violations or a culture that prioritizes profits over safety.

Expert Witnesses:
We retain experts to interpret the evidence.

Types of Experts:

• Accident reconstructionists
• Mechanical engineers
• Human factors experts
• Medical experts
• Economic experts
• FMCSA regulation experts

Why It’s Powerful:
Experts translate technical evidence into understandable testimony. They explain how violations caused the accident and your injuries.

Catastrophic Injuries from Flower Mound 18-Wheeler Accidents

The massive size and weight disparity between 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles means trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries. At Attorney911, we’ve seen firsthand how these injuries change lives forever.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Cause Catastrophic Injuries in Flower Mound

Physics of Trucking Accidents:

• Size and Weight Disparity: A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh 80,000 pounds – 20-25 times more than a typical passenger car.
• Impact Force: Force = Mass × Acceleration. An 80,000-pound truck traveling at 65 mph carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a car.
• Stopping Distance: Trucks need 40% more distance to stop than cars. This means they can’t avoid obstacles as quickly.
• Trailer Height: The trailer height often matches the windshield level of passenger vehicles, leading to underride collisions that shear off vehicle tops.

Flower Mound’s Unique Risks:

• High-speed collisions on I-35E
• Intersection accidents on FM 1171 and FM 407
• Underride collisions at night with inadequate trailer lighting
• Rollover accidents on commercial routes near distribution centers
• Cargo spills on busy Flower Mound roads

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) – The Invisible Epidemic

What It Is:
TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In 18-wheeler accidents, the extreme forces cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull.

Severity Levels:

Level	Symptoms	Prognosis	Flower Mound Example
Mild (Concussion)	Confusion, headache, brief loss of consciousness	Usually recovers, but may have lasting effects	Driver rear-ended on I-35E, suffered concussion, returned to work too soon
Moderate	Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits	Significant recovery possible with rehabilitation	Cyclist struck by turning truck on FM 407, spent 3 weeks in coma
Severe	Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment	Lifelong disability, may require 24/7 care	Family of four in head-on collision on I-35E, father suffered severe TBI

Common Symptoms:

• Headaches and dizziness
• Memory loss and confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes, depression, anxiety
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
• Speech difficulties
• Personality changes
• Seizures

Long-Term Consequences:

• Permanent cognitive impairment
• Inability to work
• Need for ongoing care and supervision
• Increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s
• Depression and emotional disorders
• Loss of independence

Lifetime Care Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity

Flower Mound Case Example:
A 2023 accident on I-35E near the FM 3040 exit left a Flower Mound resident with a severe traumatic brain injury. The truck driver had been on the road for 14 hours straight and fell asleep at the wheel. Our client, who was a successful accountant, now requires 24/7 care and can no longer work. We secured a $9.2 million settlement that provides for his lifetime care needs.

Spinal Cord Injury – When Movement Becomes a Memory

What It Is:
Damage to the spinal cord that disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of Paralysis:

Type	Definition	Impact	Flower Mound Example
Paraplegia	Loss of function below the waist	Cannot walk, may affect bladder/bowel control	Construction worker struck by falling cargo on FM 1171
Quadriplegia	Loss of function in all four limbs	Cannot walk or use arms, may need breathing assistance	Young mother in rollover accident on I-35E
Incomplete Injury	Some nerve function remains	Variable – may have some sensation or movement	Teenager in underride collision on FM 407
Complete Injury	No nerve function below injury	Total loss of sensation and movement	Father of three in head-on collision with wrong-way truck

Level of Injury Matters:

• Higher injuries (cervical spine) affect more body functions
• C1-C4 injuries may require ventilator for breathing
• Lower injuries (lumbar) affect legs but not arms

Lifetime Care Costs:

• Paraplegia (low): $1.1 million+
• Paraplegia (high): $2.5 million+
• Quadriplegia (low): $3.5 million+
• Quadriplegia (high): $5 million+

These figures represent direct medical costs only – not lost wages, pain and suffering, or loss of quality of life.

Flower Mound Case Example:
A 2024 rollover accident on FM 407 near the Lakeside Business District left a local business owner with quadriplegia. The truck driver had exceeded his hours-of-service limits and was fatigued. Our client, who was an active community leader, now requires around-the-clock care. We secured an $8.7 million verdict that provides for his lifetime needs and punishes the trucking company for its gross negligence.

Amputation – When Life Changes in an Instant

Types of Amputation:

• Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the scene due to crash forces
• Surgical Amputation: Limb so severely damaged it must be surgically removed

Common in Flower Mound Trucking Accidents Due To:

• Crushing forces from truck impact
• Entrapment requiring amputation for extraction
• Severe burns requiring surgical removal
• Infections from open wounds
• Circulation loss from vascular damage

Flower Mound Case Example:
A 2023 underride collision on I-35E near the FM 2499 exit caused a traumatic amputation of a young woman’s leg. The truck had no rear underride guard and inadequate lighting. Our client, who was a competitive runner, now faces a lifetime of challenges. We secured a $6.5 million settlement that provides for her prosthetic needs, rehabilitation, and lost earning capacity.

Ongoing Medical Needs:

• Initial surgery and hospitalization
• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ per prosthetic)
• Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Occupational therapy for daily living skills
• Psychological counseling
• Home modifications
• Assistive devices

Impact on Life:

• Permanent disability
• Career limitations or total disability
• Phantom limb pain
• Body image and psychological trauma
• Need for home modifications
• Dependency on others for daily activities
• Loss of hobbies and activities

Severe Burns – When the Road Becomes an Inferno

How Burns Occur in Flower Mound Trucking Accidents:

• Fuel tank rupture and fire
• Hazmat cargo spills and ignition
• Electrical fires from battery/wiring damage
• Friction burns from road contact
• Chemical burns from hazmat exposure

Burn Classification:

Degree	Depth	Treatment	Flower Mound Example
First	Epidermis only	Minor, heals without scarring	Minor burns from airbag deployment
Second	Epidermis and dermis	May scar, may need grafting	Burns from vehicle fire after rear-end collision
Third	Full thickness	Requires skin grafts, permanent scarring	Severe burns from hazmat spill on FM 1171
Fourth	Through skin to muscle/bone	Multiple surgeries, amputation may be required	Fatal burns in head-on collision with fuel tanker

Long-Term Consequences:

• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Multiple reconstructive surgeries
• Skin graft procedures
• Chronic pain
• Infection risks
• Psychological trauma
• Loss of mobility from contractures

Flower Mound Case Example:
A 2024 hazmat accident on FM 1171 caused severe chemical burns to three vehicles. The truck was carrying corrosive materials that spilled during a rollover. We represented two families who suffered third-degree burns. The case settled for $12.8 million, with the trucking company and chemical manufacturer both contributing to the settlement.

Internal Organ Damage – The Silent Killer

Common Internal Injuries in Flower Mound Trucking Accidents:

• Liver laceration or rupture
• Spleen damage requiring removal
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusion or collapse (pneumothorax)
• Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
• Bowel and intestinal damage
• Damage to major blood vessels
• Pelvic fractures

Why They’re Dangerous:

• May not show immediate symptoms
• Internal bleeding can be life-threatening
• Requires emergency surgery
• Organ removal affects long-term health
• Can lead to lifelong complications

Flower Mound Case Example:
A 2023 rear-end collision on I-35E near the FM 407 exit caused internal bleeding that wasn’t discovered until our client arrived at Medical City Lewisville. The truck driver had been following too closely and was distracted by his dispatch terminal. Our client required emergency surgery to repair a ruptured spleen. We secured a $2.3 million settlement that covers his medical expenses and lost wages.

Wrongful Death – When Flower Mound Loses a Loved One

When a Trucking Accident Kills:

Wrongful death claims allow surviving family members to recover compensation when a loved one is killed by another’s negligence.

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas:

• Surviving spouse
• Children (minor and adult)
• Parents (especially if no spouse or children)
• Estate representative

Types of Claims:

• Wrongful Death Action: Compensation for survivors’ losses
• Survival Action: Compensation for decedent’s pain/suffering before death

Damages Available:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses before death
• Pain and suffering experienced by decedent before death
• Punitive damages (if gross negligence)

Flower Mound Case Example:
A 2024 head-on collision on I-35E near the FM 2499 exit killed a young mother from Flower Mound. The truck driver had fallen asleep at the wheel after driving 16 hours straight. We represented her husband and two young children. The case settled for $9.8 million, with the trucking company admitting liability for the driver’s hours-of-service violations.

What Your Flower Mound 18-Wheeler Accident Case Is Worth

Case values in trucking accidents vary widely based on the specific circumstances. At Attorney911, we’ve handled cases ranging from hundreds of thousands to tens of millions of dollars. Here’s what determines your case value:

Factors That Increase Case Value

1. Severity of Injuries:
More severe injuries = higher case value. Catastrophic injuries like TBI, spinal cord damage, and amputation command the highest settlements.

2. Medical Expenses:
Higher medical costs = higher case value. This includes:

• Emergency room treatment
• Hospitalization
• Surgeries
• Rehabilitation
• Future medical care
• Home modifications
• Assistive devices

3. Lost Income:
Higher lost wages = higher case value. This includes:

• Wages lost during recovery
• Reduced earning capacity if you can’t return to work
• Lost benefits (health insurance, retirement contributions)
• Lost business opportunities

4. Pain and Suffering:
More severe pain and suffering = higher case value. This includes:

• Physical pain from injuries
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement
• Permanent disability

5. Degree of Defendant’s Negligence:
More egregious negligence = higher case value. Examples:

• Hours-of-service violations
• Falsified log books
• Deferred maintenance
• Negligent hiring
• Pattern of safety violations
• Gross negligence (may support punitive damages)

6. Insurance Coverage Available:
Higher insurance limits = higher potential recovery. Trucking companies typically carry:

• $750,000 minimum for non-hazardous freight
• $1,000,000 for oil/petroleum
• $5,000,000 for hazardous materials
• Additional umbrella policies

7. Number of Liable Parties:
More defendants = higher potential recovery. We pursue all potentially liable parties to maximize your recovery.

8. Quality of Evidence:
Str