McKinney, Texas Trucking Accidents

McKinney, Texas, sits at a crossroads of major highways that connect North Texas to other regions, including Oklahoma and beyond. Highways such as I-70, the 121 Tollway, and Highway 380 bring a significant volume of trucking traffic through the area every day. While these routes are essential for commerce and industry, they also increase the risk of serious trucking accidents. Large commercial vehicles operate at high speeds, carry heavy loads, and can be far more dangerous than standard passenger vehicles. For drivers and passengers involved in these accidents, the consequences can be catastrophic. 

At David K. Wilson & Associates, we have over 40 years of experience helping North Texas residents navigate the aftermath of trucking accidents. Our founding attorney, David K. Wilson, has witnessed firsthand the devastating physical, emotional, and financial toll these crashes can have on families. We are committed to holding negligent parties accountable and guiding our clients through the complex legal process with compassion and expertise. 

Understanding Trucking Regulations and Why They Matter 

Trucking companies and commercial drivers are subject to strict rules and regulations established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules are designed to prevent accidents by controlling driver hours, vehicle maintenance, load limits, and safety standards. Key FMCSA regulations include mandatory rest breaks, maximum driving hours, proper logbook documentation, and vehicle inspection requirements. 

Unfortunately, when these regulations are ignored or violated, the risk of accidents increases dramatically. Common violations that can lead to crashes include: 

• Driver fatigue due to exceeding allowable driving hours. 
• Improper vehicle maintenance, such as worn brakes or tires. 
• Overloaded or improperly secured cargo is causing the truck to tip or lose control. 
• Distracted or impaired driving, including texting or driving under the influence. 

Failure to comply with FMCSA regulations is often a key factor in determining liability after a trucking accident. Our team at David K. Wilson & Associates works closely with experts to investigate whether trucking companies or drivers violated federal or state safety laws and whether those violations caused your injuries. 

Catastrophic Injuries from Trucking Accidents 

Trucking accidents are often far more severe than typical car collisions due to the sheer size, weight, and force of commercial vehicles. Even a collision at moderate speeds can cause devastating injuries that change lives in an instant. Spinal cord injuries are among the most serious outcomes, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis and permanent limitations on mobility. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are also common, often affecting memory, cognitive function, and emotional regulation, with consequences that can last a lifetime. 

High-impact crashes frequently lead to severe fractures, broken bones, or even amputations. These injuries not only require extensive surgeries and rehabilitation but may also prevent victims from returning to work or living independently. Internal injuries are another major concern; damage to organs or internal bleeding can be life-threatening and sometimes remain undetected until hours or days after the accident. 

Burns, deep lacerations, and other trauma from sharp debris or fires may further complicate recovery, causing both physical and emotional scars. Beyond the visible injuries, many victims suffer significant emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress, which can affect their quality of life for years. Some of these injuries can last a lifetime, and in certain cases, full recovery may never be possible. No matter the outcome, our team at David K. Wilson & Associates is committed to supporting every client through the physical, emotional, and legal challenges that follow a trucking accident. 

How David K. Wilson & Associates Determines Liability 

Trucking accident cases can be extremely complex because multiple parties may share responsibility. At David K. Wilson & Associates, we conduct a thorough investigation to determine who is at fault. This may include: 

• Examining the truck driver’s logbooks and hours of service. 
• Reviewing maintenance records for the vehicle. 
• Interviewing witnesses and collecting video or photographic evidence. 
• Consulting accident reconstruction experts to understand the mechanics of the crash. 
• Investigating the trucking company’s safety policies and history of violations. 

By identifying all responsible parties, we ensure that liability is properly assigned and that victims have the best chance of recovering full and fair compensation.

How Insurance Works in Trucking Accidents 

Trucking accidents are often far more complex than standard car collisions, and understanding how insurance works in these cases is critical. Unlike personal auto accidents, trucking accidents typically involve commercial insurance policies that are much larger and more complex. The trucking company’s primary liability coverage is intended to cover injuries and damages caused by their driver, but often, this policy alone is not enough to fully compensate victims for catastrophic injuries. Many trucking companies carry excess liability or umbrella policies that provide additional coverage when the primary policy limits are exhausted. These policies can be essential for victims facing extensive medical bills, long-term rehabilitation, or permanent disability. 

In addition, some trucking accidents involve cargo insurance, which protects the goods being transported but does not directly cover personal injury. Insurance companies in commercial trucking cases are often highly sophisticated and well-versed in minimizing payouts. They may attempt to shift blame, question your medical records, or offer a quick settlement far below what you deserve. Negotiating with these insurers requires a deep understanding of both insurance law and the trucking industry. At David K. Wilson & Associates, we take on the responsibility of handling communications with insurance companies, ensuring your rights are fully protected while aggressively advocating for fair compensation.

Recoverable Compensation in Trucking Accident Cases 

Victims of trucking accidents may be entitled to a wide range of damages, depending on the severity of the accident, the injuries sustained, and the circumstances that led to the crash. Compensation typically includes medical expenses, covering everything from emergency care and surgeries to ongoing rehabilitation and long-term treatments. Because trucking accidents often result in serious or catastrophic injuries, these medical costs can quickly escalate into hundreds of thousands (or even millions) of dollars. In addition to medical expenses, victims may recover lost wages for the time they are unable to work due to injuries. In more severe cases, where the ability to earn a living has been permanently affected, compensation may also include diminished earning capacity, reflecting the long-term financial impact of the accident. 

Trucking accidents also cause pain and suffering, which accounts for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life. Some victims face permanent disability, mobility restrictions, or chronic conditions, which can have profound effects on daily life. Property damage, such as the repair or replacement of vehicles and personal belongings, is another recoverable cost. In cases where the driver or trucking company acted with extreme recklessness or disregard for safety regulations, courts may award punitive damages to punish the responsible parties and deter similar conduct in the future. 

Every trucking accident case is unique, and factors like the cause of the crash, the number of parties involved, insurance policy limits, and comparative negligence can all influence the amount of compensation available. Time is of the essence in these cases. Evidence can be lost, witnesses’ recollections can fade, and deadlines imposed by Texas law can bar a claim entirely. The best way to understand the potential value of your case and ensure your rights are protected is to contact our team at David K. Wilson & Associates as soon as possible. We work tirelessly to investigate, document, and pursue every possible avenue of recovery so that our clients receive the compensation they need to move forward. 

Taking Action: Contact David K. Wilson & Associates 

Trucking accidents can have life-altering consequences, and victims need experienced legal guidance to navigate these complex cases. At David K. Wilson & Associates, we combine over 40 years of experience with a client-focused approach, ensuring that every case is handled with compassion, expertise, and attention to detail. 

If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident in McKinney or North Texas, contact our office today for a free consultation. We will review your case, explain your options, and help you pursue the maximum compensation available. Don’t wait because time is limited, and early action is crucial to protecting your rights and future.