18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Village of The Hills, Texas

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Village of The Hills, Texas, you need legal representation that understands both the devastating impact of these crashes and the complex web of federal and state regulations that govern the trucking industry. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, securing multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of the largest trucking companies in the country.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different

The moment an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the physics of the impact create catastrophic consequences. Village of The Hills residents traveling on I-35, US-183, or the local highways connecting to Austin know all too well the dangers posed by large commercial vehicles. Unlike typical car accidents, trucking collisions involve:

Massive size and weight disparity (20-25 times heavier than your car)
Complex federal regulations (FMCSA rules that trucking companies routinely violate)
Multiple liable parties (driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, manufacturers, and more)
Specialized evidence (black box data, ELD records, maintenance logs that disappear quickly)
Higher insurance limits ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million in coverage)

When an 18-wheeler changes your life in an instant on Village of The Hills roadways, you need attorneys who understand these unique factors and know how to build a case that holds all responsible parties fully accountable.

Common 18-Wheeler Accident Types in Village of The Hills

Village of The Hills sits at a critical juncture in Central Texas, with major trucking corridors passing through and around the community. Some of the most dangerous types of trucking accidents we see in this area include:

Jackknife Accidents on I-35

The I-35 corridor through Village of The Hills sees heavy truck traffic, especially during morning and evening rush hours. Jackknife accidents occur when trailers swing out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes and causing multi-vehicle pileups. These terrifying crashes are frequently caused by:

Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
Speeding around curves near the Village of The Hills exits
Empty or improperly loaded trailers
Brake system failures
Driver inexperience with emergency maneuvers

The sweeping trailer can strike vehicles in adjacent lanes before drivers have time to react, leading to catastrophic injuries.

Underride Collisions at Village of The Hills Intersections

Underride accidents are among the deadliest trucking crashes, occurring when a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler. In Village of The Hills, these often happen at intersections like:

US-183 and RM 620
Anderson Mill Road and Spicewood Springs Road
Local intersections with poor lighting or visibility

When a car’s passenger compartment is sheared off at windshield level, the results are almost always fatal or catastrophic. Despite federal requirements for rear underride guards, many trailers still lack adequate protection, and there are no federal requirements for side underride guards.

Rollover Accidents on Hill Country Roads

The scenic Hill Country roads around Village of The Hills present unique challenges for large trucks. Rollover accidents occur when:

Trucks take curves too fast on roads like RM 2222 or Loop 360
Cargo shifts during transit, destabilizing the vehicle
Drivers overcorrect after running off the road
Top-heavy loads (like tankers or flatbeds) tip on steep grades

These accidents frequently result in crushing injuries to vehicles beneath the overturned trailer, cargo spills that create additional hazards, and fires from ruptured fuel tanks.

Rear-End Collisions on Congested Village of The Hills Highways

With Village of The Hills experiencing rapid growth, congestion on local highways has increased dramatically. When an 18-wheeler rear-ends a passenger vehicle:

The truck’s massive weight creates devastating impact forces
Stopping distances are 40% longer than passenger vehicles (525 feet at 65 mph)
Common causes include distracted driving, following too closely, and brake failures
Injuries are often catastrophic due to the extreme forces involved

These accidents frequently occur during rush hour traffic when truck drivers are pushing to meet delivery deadlines.

Wide Turn Accidents in Village of The Hills Commercial Areas

Trucks making wide right turns in Village of The Hills commercial areas often create dangerous “squeeze play” situations where:

The truck swings left before making a right turn
Smaller vehicles enter the gap between truck and curb
The truck completes its turn, crushing the smaller vehicle
Common locations include shopping centers and business parks

These accidents are particularly dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists in Village of The Hills who may be caught in the truck’s blind spots.

Brake Failure Accidents on Hill Country Descents

The topography around Village of The Hills includes significant elevation changes that challenge truck braking systems. Brake failures commonly occur when:

Brake systems aren’t properly maintained
Drivers fail to use engine braking on long descents
Brake components overheat and lose effectiveness
Brake adjustment isn’t properly maintained

When brakes fail on a steep grade, trucks can reach dangerous speeds before drivers can regain control, often resulting in catastrophic collisions.

The Devastating Injuries We See in Village of The Hills Trucking Accidents

The sheer size and weight of 18-wheelers create forces that passenger vehicles simply aren’t designed to withstand. The injuries we see in Village of The Hills trucking accidents are often life-altering:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Mild TBI/Concussion: Headaches, confusion, memory problems, mood changes
Moderate TBI: Extended unconsciousness, permanent cognitive deficits
Severe TBI: Coma, permanent disability, need for 24/7 care
Lifetime costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+

TBI often results from occupants striking their heads on steering wheels, dashboards, or windows during the violent forces of a truck collision.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Paraplegia: Loss of function below the waist
Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs
Incomplete injuries: Some nerve function remains
Lifetime costs: $1,100,000 to $5,000,000+

Spinal cord injuries frequently occur when the spinal column is compressed or severed during the extreme forces of a trucking accident.

Amputations

Traumatic amputations: Limbs severed at the scene
Surgical amputations: Required due to severe crush injuries
Ongoing needs: Prosthetics ($5,000-$50,000 each), rehabilitation, home modifications
Psychological impact: Phantom limb pain, PTSD, depression

Amputations often result from crushing injuries when vehicles are trapped between trucks and other objects.

Severe Burns

Causes: Fuel tank ruptures, chemical spills, electrical fires
Degrees: First (superficial) to fourth (muscle/bone exposure)
Treatment: Multiple surgeries, skin grafts, long-term rehabilitation
Consequences: Permanent scarring, disfigurement, chronic pain

Burn injuries are particularly common in accidents involving tanker trucks carrying flammable materials.

Internal Organ Damage

Common injuries: Liver lacerations, spleen ruptures, kidney damage, lung contusions
Dangers: Internal bleeding, organ failure, life-threatening complications
Treatment: Emergency surgery, lengthy hospital stays

Internal injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents claim lives in Village of The Hills, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims to recover:

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

Who Is Liable in Your Village of The Hills Trucking Accident?

One of the most important differences between car accidents and trucking accidents is that multiple parties may share responsibility for your injuries. At Attorney911, we thoroughly investigate every case to identify all potentially liable parties:

The Truck Driver

Driver negligence is a factor in most trucking accidents. Common driver violations we see in Village of The Hills cases include:

Fatigued driving: Violating hours of service regulations
Distracted driving: Cell phone use, texting, dispatch communications
Impaired driving: Alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription medications
Speeding: Especially dangerous given longer stopping distances
Improper lane changes: Failing to check blind spots
Following too closely: Not allowing adequate stopping distance
Failure to yield: Especially at Village of The Hills intersections

The Trucking Company

Trucking companies are often the most important defendants because they have the deepest pockets and highest insurance limits. They can be held liable for:

Negligent hiring: Failing to properly vet drivers
Negligent training: Inadequate safety training
Negligent supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance
Negligent maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep
Negligent scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate HOS rules

Cargo Owners and Loading Companies

Improperly loaded or secured cargo causes many accidents. These parties may be liable for:

Overloading: Exceeding weight limits
Improper securement: Failing to use proper tiedowns
Unbalanced loads: Creating instability
Hazardous materials: Failing to properly label or secure

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

When equipment defects contribute to accidents, manufacturers may be liable for:

Brake failures: Defective brake systems
Tire defects: Manufacturing flaws causing blowouts
Steering failures: Defective components
Lighting failures: Non-functioning lights or reflectors
Underride guard failures: Defective protection systems

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers may be liable for:

Negligent repairs: Failing to properly fix problems
Failure to identify issues: Missing critical safety defects
Improper parts: Using substandard or incorrect components
Returning unsafe vehicles: Certifying vehicles as roadworthy when they’re not

Freight Brokers

Companies that arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for:

Negligent carrier selection: Choosing unsafe carriers
Failure to verify insurance: Not confirming adequate coverage
Failure to check safety records: Ignoring poor CSA scores

Government Entities

In limited cases, government agencies may share liability for:

Dangerous road design: Poorly designed intersections or curves
Inadequate signage: Missing or unclear traffic signs
Poor maintenance: Potholes, debris, or worn road markings
Failure to install safety barriers: Where known hazards exist

The Critical Evidence We Preserve in Every Village of The Hills Trucking Case

Evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. At Attorney911, we move fast to preserve critical evidence:

Electronic Data That Disappears Fast

ECM/Black Box Data: Speed, braking, throttle position, fault codes
ELD Records: Hours of service, driving time, GPS location
Dashcam Footage: Video of the accident and driver behavior
Cell Phone Records: Text messages, calls, app usage
GPS/Telematics Data: Real-time location and speed history

This data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve it.

Driver and Company Records

Driver Qualification File: Employment application, background check, training records
Maintenance Records: Repair history, inspection reports
Dispatch Records: Trip logs, delivery schedules
Drug and Alcohol Test Results: Pre-employment and random testing
Previous Accident History: Company and driver safety records

These documents prove negligence in hiring, training, supervision, and maintenance.

Physical Evidence

The truck and trailer: For inspection before repairs
Failed components: Tires, brakes, steering parts
Cargo and securement devices: To prove loading failures
Accident scene evidence: Skid marks, debris patterns, road conditions

We photograph everything and work with accident reconstruction experts to analyze the evidence.

How We Build Your Village of The Hills Trucking Accident Case

Our approach combines aggressive investigation with deep knowledge of trucking regulations:

Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)

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’re repaired or scrapped
Identify all potentially liable parties

Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

Subpoena ECM/black box data downloads
Request driver’s paper log books (backup documentation)
Obtain complete Driver Qualification File from carrier
Request all truck maintenance and inspection records
Obtain carrier’s CSA safety scores and inspection history
Order driver’s complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
Subpoena driver’s cell phone records
Obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules

Phase 3: Expert Analysis

Accident reconstruction specialist creates crash analysis
Medical experts establish causation and future care needs
Vocational experts calculate lost earning capacity
Economic experts determine present value of all damages
Life care planners develop comprehensive care plans
FMCSA regulation experts identify all violations

Phase 4: Litigation Strategy

File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires
Pursue aggressive discovery against all 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 (this creates leverage in negotiations)

The FMCSA Violations We Find in Most Village of The Hills Trucking Cases

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations exist to keep our roads safe. When trucking companies violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that lead to catastrophic accidents. Some of the most common violations we see in Village of The Hills cases include:

Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395)

11-hour driving limit: Drivers exceeding maximum driving time
14-hour on-duty window: Drivers working beyond legal limits
30-minute break rule: Failing to take required breaks
60/70-hour weekly limits: Exceeding maximum weekly driving time
False log entries: Falsifying ELD or paper log records

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

Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391)

Incomplete Driver Qualification Files: Missing required documents
No background checks: Hiring drivers with poor safety records
No previous employer verification: Failing to check driving history
Expired medical certification: Allowing unqualified drivers to operate
No drug testing: Failing to conduct required testing

Negligent hiring is a major factor in many trucking accidents.

Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396)

Brake system deficiencies: Worn or improperly adjusted brakes
Tire violations: Bald tires, improper inflation, mismatched duals
Lighting violations: Non-functioning lights or reflectors
No annual inspection: Failing to conduct required inspections
Deferred maintenance: Ignoring known safety issues

Brake problems are a factor in 29% of large truck crashes.

Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR Part 393)

Inadequate tiedowns: Not enough or improperly rated
Improper loading: Unbalanced or overweight loads
No blocking/bracing: Failing to stabilize cargo
No re-inspection: Failing to check cargo during trip

Cargo securement violations cause rollovers and spill accidents.

Other Common Violations

Speeding: Exceeding posted limits or driving too fast for conditions
Following too closely: Not allowing adequate stopping distance
Distracted driving: Cell phone use, texting, dispatch communications
Drug/alcohol violations: Operating under the influence
Improper lane changes: Failing to check blind spots

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Village of The Hills Trucking Case

25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been representing trucking accident victims since 1998. He has:

Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts
Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
Experience in BP explosion litigation against multinational corporations
Deep familiarity with Village of The Hills trucking corridors and accident patterns

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage:

We know how adjusters are trained to lowball claims
We understand the claims valuation software they use
We recognize their manipulation tactics immediately
We know when they’re bluffing and when they’ll pay

Proven Track Record of Results

We’ve recovered over $50 million for our clients, including:

$5+ million for a logging accident brain injury case
$3.8+ million for a car accident amputation case
$2.5+ million for truck crash recoveries
$2+ million for a maritime back injury case
Millions for families in wrongful death cases

Comprehensive Resources to Build Your Case

We have the resources to take on the largest trucking companies:

Access to top accident reconstruction experts
Relationships with medical specialists who understand trucking injuries
Financial resources to advance all case costs
Experience taking cases to trial when necessary

Personal Attention You Won’t Get at Big Firms

Unlike mega-firms where you’re just a case number, we treat every client like family:

Direct access to your attorney, not just case managers
Regular updates on your case progress
Compassionate representation that understands your trauma
Spanish-language services available through Lupe Peña

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. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Village of The Hills

If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident in Village of The Hills, follow these critical steps:

Call 911 immediately – Report the accident and request medical assistance
Seek medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out
Document the scene – Take photos and video of:
- All vehicle damage (inside and out)
- The accident scene (skid marks, debris, road conditions)
- Your injuries
- Street signs and traffic signals
Get information from the truck driver:
- Name and contact information
- CDL number
- Trucking company name and DOT number
- Insurance information
Collect witness information – Names and phone numbers
Do NOT give recorded statements – To any insurance company
Call Attorney911 immediately – 1-888-ATTY-911

The Village of The Hills Trucking Corridors We Know Well

Village of The Hills sits at the heart of Central Texas trucking activity. Our team knows these critical corridors and the unique dangers they present:

I-35 Corridor

Primary route: Connects Laredo to Dallas through Austin
Truck traffic: Heavy commercial traffic moving goods between Mexico and the U.S.
Danger zones: The stretch through Village of The Hills sees frequent congestion and sudden slowdowns
Common accidents: Rear-end collisions, jackknife accidents, rollovers on curves

US-183 (Research Boulevard)

Primary route: Connects Austin to communities north and west
Truck traffic: Significant local delivery traffic serving Village of The Hills businesses
Danger zones: Intersections with RM 620 and Anderson Mill Road
Common accidents: Wide turn accidents, intersection collisions

RM 620 and Anderson Mill Road

Primary route: Major local arteries serving Village of The Hills
Truck traffic: Delivery trucks serving local businesses and construction sites
Danger zones: Intersections with US-183 and other major roads
Common accidents: Squeeze play accidents, rear-end collisions

Loop 360 (Capital of Texas Highway)

Primary route: Scenic route around western Austin
Truck traffic: Moderate, but includes oversized loads
Danger zones: Steep grades and sharp curves in the Hill Country
Common accidents: Brake failures, rollovers, cargo spills

Local Business and Industrial Areas

Locations: Village of The Hills Business Park, local warehouses
Truck traffic: Delivery trucks, construction vehicles
Danger zones: Parking lots, loading docks, tight turns
Common accidents: Backing accidents, pedestrian collisions, wide turns

Common Trucking Companies Operating in Village of The Hills

We’ve litigated against virtually every major trucking company operating in Texas, including:

Swift Transportation (major presence in Central Texas)
Werner Enterprises (Dallas hub serves Village of The Hills)
J.B. Hunt Transport (major carrier with Austin presence)
Schneider National (major hub in Texas)
Heartland Express (Texas terminals)
Amazon delivery trucks (growing presence in Village of The Hills)
FedEx and UPS (local delivery operations)
Walmart trucking operations (serving local stores)
Coca-Cola distribution (local delivery routes)
Numerous regional and local carriers

Village of The Hills-Specific Trucking Accident Factors

Rapid Growth and Construction

Village of The Hills has experienced significant growth in recent years, leading to:

Increased construction truck traffic
Temporary road configurations and detours
More inexperienced drivers navigating unfamiliar areas
Higher congestion during peak hours

Hill Country Topography

The topography around Village of The Hills creates unique challenges:

Steep grades that challenge braking systems
Sharp curves that require reduced speeds
Limited visibility on winding roads
Wildlife crossings that create sudden hazards

Severe Weather Conditions

Central Texas weather creates additional hazards:

Flash flooding: Can occur suddenly on local roads
High winds: Can affect high-profile trailers
Ice storms: Rare but catastrophic when they occur
Summer heat: Can cause tire blowouts and brake failures

Special Events and Increased Traffic

Village of The Hills and nearby Austin host numerous events that increase truck traffic:

Austin events: SXSW, ACL Festival, Formula 1
Local events: Village of The Hills festivals, community gatherings
Construction projects: Major infrastructure improvements

How Much Is Your Village of The Hills Trucking Accident Case Worth?

Every case is unique, but trucking accidents typically result in higher settlements than car accidents due to:

Higher insurance limits ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million)
More severe injuries (catastrophic injuries are common)
Multiple liable parties (more sources of compensation)
Federal regulations (violations provide strong evidence of negligence)

Factors that affect your case value include:

Severity of injuries: More severe injuries result in higher compensation
Medical expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs
Lost income: Wages lost due to injury and recovery
Lost earning capacity: Reduction in future earning ability
Pain and suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress
Degree of negligence: More egregious violations result in higher awards
Insurance coverage: Higher limits allow for larger recoveries

In Texas, there is no cap on compensatory damages for pain and suffering in trucking accident cases, allowing for significant recoveries when trucking companies act negligently.

The Insurance Battle You’re Facing

Trucking companies and their insurers have teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim. They use sophisticated tactics to reduce or deny your compensation:

Common Insurance Tactics

Quick lowball offers: Designed to settle before you understand your injuries
Denying or minimizing injuries: Claiming injuries aren’t as serious as you say
Blaming the victim: Alleging you were partially at fault
Delaying the process: Hoping you’ll accept a lower offer out of frustration
Using recorded statements against you: Twisting your words to minimize your claim
Pre-existing condition defenses: Claiming your injuries existed before the accident
Surveillance: Following you to catch you doing activities that contradict your claims

How We Counter These Tactics

Never accept early offers: We wait until we understand the full extent of your injuries
Document everything: Comprehensive medical records prove your injuries
Investigate thoroughly: We gather evidence to disprove fault allegations
Move aggressively: We file lawsuits to force action when necessary
Control communication: We handle all interactions with insurance companies
Apply the “eggshell skull” doctrine: We prove the accident aggravated pre-existing conditions
Expose surveillance tactics: We document any unfair surveillance practices

What to Expect in Your Village of The Hills Trucking Case

Timeline

Simple cases: 6-12 months
Moderate complexity: 12-24 months
Complex litigation: 2-4 years

Process

Free consultation: We evaluate your case at no cost
Case acceptance: We agree to represent you
Investigation: We gather evidence and build your case
Demand letter: We make a formal demand to the insurance company
Negotiation: We negotiate for a fair settlement
Litigation (if needed): We file a lawsuit and pursue your case in court
Resolution: Your case settles or goes to trial

Potential Outcomes

Settlement: Most cases settle before trial
Mediation: A neutral mediator helps facilitate settlement
Trial: We present your case to a jury if necessary
Appeal: Either side may appeal if dissatisfied with the outcome

Village of The Hills Trucking Accident Resources

Local Hospitals

St. David’s North Austin Medical Center: 12221 N Mopac Expy, Austin, TX 78758
Ascension Seton Northwest: 11113 Research Blvd, Austin, TX 78759
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Round Rock: 300 University Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665

Trauma Centers

Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas: 1500 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701 (Level I trauma center)

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Texas NeuroRehab Center: 1106 W Dittmar Rd, Austin, TX 78745
St. David’s Rehabilitation Hospital: 1005 E 32nd St, Austin, TX 78705

Support Groups

Brain Injury Association of Texas: Support for TBI survivors and families
Spinal Cord Injury Association of Texas: Resources for spinal cord injury survivors
Amputee Coalition: Support for amputees and their families

Legal Resources

Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): Crash reports and road condition information
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): Carrier safety records
Texas Bar Association: Lawyer referral service

Frequently Asked Questions About Village of The Hills Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Village of The Hills?

Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene with photos, get the truck driver’s information, collect witness contact information, and call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911.

Should I go to the hospital even if I feel okay?

Yes. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Village of The Hills hospitals can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case.

What information should I collect at the accident scene?

Document everything: truck and trailer license plates, DOT number, trucking company name, driver’s name and CDL number, photos of all vehicle damage, photos of the scene, witness names and phone numbers, weather and road conditions.

Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

No. Do not give any recorded statements. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests.

How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney?

Immediately – within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence in trucking cases (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Village of The Hills?

Multiple parties may be liable: the truck driver, the trucking company, the cargo owner, the loading company, truck or parts manufacturers, maintenance companies, freight brokers, and government entities (for road defects).

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. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs – the data tells the true story.

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 airplane black boxes. This data can show speed before and during the crash, brake application timing, engine RPM, GPS location, and more. 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. Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents.

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, and 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, or even enter default judgment in extreme cases.

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.

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find: hours of service violations, false log entries, brake system deficiencies, cargo securement failures, drug and alcohol violations, unqualified drivers, 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, and 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 insurance do trucking companies carry?

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage:

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

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

What types of damages can I recover?

Economic damages: Medical expenses, lost wages, property damage
Non-economic damages: Pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment
Punitive damages: When the trucking company acted with gross negligence

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Village of The Hills?

Case values depend on injury severity, medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, degree of negligence, and insurance coverage. 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 an 18-wheeler 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 trucking 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 trucking 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. We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way if necessary.

Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?

No. We work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

Village of The Hills Trucking Accident Case Results

While every case is unique, our track record demonstrates what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable:

$5+ million for a logging accident brain injury case
$3.8+ million for a car accident amputation case
$2.5+ million for truck crash recoveries
$2+ million for a maritime back injury case
Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases

These results show what juries award when trucking companies act negligently. Insurance companies know we’re prepared to take cases to trial, which strengthens our position in settlement negotiations.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Village of The Hills, Texas, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Evidence disappears quickly, and the trucking company’s insurance adjusters are already working to minimize your claim.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and begin protecting your rights. Our Village of The Hills trucking accident attorneys work on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Don’t let the trucking company take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 today and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.