INJURED BY A COMMERCIAL DRIVER?
NO FEES UNLESS YOU COLLECT
In the last four years, our firm made Top Verdict’s “Top 50” Personal Injury Settlements in Texas list 44 times, and the “Top 100” list 70 times.
YOU CAN TRUST OUR FAMILY TO FIGHT FOR YOURS™
If you were hurt in a commercial vehicle or big truck accident, our skilled Frisco attorneys fight tenaciously to ensure the maximum available settlement while offering you the lowest contingency fee. We handle your case the way we would want our own case handled.
Mullen & Mullen is consistently recognized by TopVerdict for obtaining some of the largest recoveries in the entire state of Texas. In the last 4 years our firm made the Texas “Top 50 Personal Injury Settlements” list 44 times, and the “Top 100” list 70 times. One of those years we had 19 of the “Top 50” results and all of them were for clients injured in motor vehicle accidents. Our stellar results allow us to offer a below industry standard 29% pre-suit contingency fee which means more money in your pocket.
Our experienced local team has an incredibly strong work ethic and truly cares. We’ve been privileged to serve North Texas for over 40 years. This is our backyard. Call (214) 529-3476 now for a free consultation and some excellent advice.
Accidents involving commercial vehicles demand swift action due to the aggressive tactics employed by insurance companies. Often, defense attorneys and crisis teams are dispatched immediately to minimize the company’s liability and influence investigations. If you’ve been injured in such an accident, these companies are already working to delay, deny, defend, or dismiss your claims.
Crucial evidence in these cases tends to conveniently disappear, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. That’s why, once Mullen & Mullen takes on commercial cases, we promptly send detailed spoliation letters and demands to preserve specific evidence.
Unlike many firms that only bring in experts after a lawsuit is filed, we regularly engage professionals such as accident reconstructionists, life care planners, and vocational rehabilitation consultants early on. We conduct inspections and extract data from the electronic control modules of involved vehicles. These proactive measures significantly enhance the likelihood of securing an early settlement within the insurance policy limits, sparing you the stress and expense of prolonged litigation.
Surprisingly, some attorneys remain uninvolved in a personal injury case until it’s almost ready for presentation. By then, crucial details cannot be altered. At Mullen & Mullen, our clients have continuous access to their attorneys, right from the case’s inception. Most importantly, our clients are provided with their attorney’s personal cell phone number for direct communication.
Additionally, it’s essential to have legal representation with profound medical knowledge. Establishing a connection between your injuries and the accident might seem straightforward but is often complex. Certain injuries don’t manifest on imaging studies. In some cases, an MRI may reveal various conditions, making it easy for commercial insurance companies to attribute your pain to pre-existing issues rather than the actual injury. Without clear and acute objective findings on imaging studies, they may argue that you’re not genuinely hurt.
Consider a recent case we handled, where our client’s MRI appeared normal. We successfully argued that her lack of findings was due to facet joint syndrome, a clinical diagnosis not solely reliant on imaging. By presenting her prior medical records that showed no prior complaints of similar symptoms before the accident, we built a compelling case. Despite her pain having temporarily resolved, we worked with a certified lifecare planner expert to calculate her future medical costs, considering the possibility of recurrence. The result was a remarkable recovery of the full remaining liability policy limits, totaling $968,844.03, achieved without the need for litigation.
This achievement was possible due to our in-depth understanding of our client’s specific injury, highlighting the importance of expertise and personalized attention in navigating the complexities of commercial vehicle accident cases.
Gross Settlements Before Fees & Expenses
We have achieved numerous multimillion-dollar settlements across all practice areas, but we are restricted from displaying some very large results due to settlement confidentiality. Here are a few recent results without confidentiality agreements:
$6,150,000.00
Work Accident
$4,000,000.00
Wrongful Death
$2,978,104.95
Vehicle Accident
$2,550,000.00
Vehicle Accident
$2,550,000.00
Vehicle Accident
$2,250,000.00
Premises Liability
According to TopVerdict.com, our Dallas attorneys consistently achieve some of the highest recoveries in the state of Texas. As a matter of fact, in the last four years, we’ve made their Texas “Top 50” Personal Injury Settlements list 43 times, and their “Top 100” list 70 times. For example, in 2021 one of our claims made the Top 10 list, eight made the Top 11-20 list, and ten made the Top 21-50 list. When you factor in our reduced 29% contingency fee, we are confident we will help you recover more. At Mullen & Mullen, we pride ourselves on routinely recovering full policy limits for our clients without the necessity of costly and time-consuming litigation.
According to TopVerdict.com, our Dallas attorneys consistently achieve some of the highest recoveries in the state of Texas. As a matter of fact, in the last three years we’ve made their “Texas Top 50 Personal Injury Settlements” list 43 times. For example, in 2021 one of our claims made the Top 10 list, eight made the Top 11-20 list, and ten made the Top 21-50 list. When you factor in our reduced 29% contingency fee, we are confident we will help you recover more. At Mullen & Mullen, we pride ourselves on routinely recovering full policy limits for our clients without the necessity of costly and time-consuming litigation.
We have access to state-of-the-art diagnostic technology through well-established relationships with medical doctors, surgeons, physical therapists, chiropractors, neurologists, counselors, and other healthcare providers in the entire DFW Metroplex. You receive the quality medical attention you need from local providers near where you live or work. These providers specialize in treating people hurt in accidents of all kinds and they know how to properly document injuries to meet the legal burden of proof in your personal injury case. These providers are also willing to delay billing collections until after your case is resolved so you can focus on recovering without additional stress. Physicians that don’t routinely treat accident victims as part of their practice usually turn away patients over fear of being involved in the legal process or fear of health insurance companies refusing to pay accident-related healthcare bills. Please call us at 214-747-5240 for a free consultation and some advice.
Even if you don’t have health insurance or can’t afford your deductible, Mullen & Mullen will secure you the quality healthcare and state-of-the art diagnostics you deserve with no upfront out of pocket costs.
Shane, Joseph and Regis have almost 100 years of combined experience practicing personal injury law. That doesn’t even include the combined experience of the attorneys that serve as of-counsel to Mullen & Mullen at no additional cost to our clients. Our firm continues to evolve, but we never forget our Core Values. We do the right thing, handle cases the way we would want our own case handled, and we truly listen to clients. We have over 40 years of local knowledge, and that matters!
Some lawyers forget that they represent the client, but we never have. Our legal team will make YOU the priority. You are the boss, and we will respond quickly to your requests for case updates and assistance. We guarantee that when you need to speak to your counsel, you will speak directly to your counsel, not to a paralegal or secretary, because that’s the way it should be.
Most firms hire an investigator to help develop evidence on your case and charge you back for that service. Our firm, however, has 2 full-time accident investigators on staff and we offer their services to you for free. This is another way we will maximize your compensation.
They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Video footage is worth a lot more. Our in-house videographer allows us to capture the true impact the accident has on your life beyond mere words on a piece of paper.
When necessary, Mullen & Mullen Law Firm uses cutting edge technology like 3D imaging videos to fully demonstrate the extent of our clients’ injuries to the insurance companies. This also helps maximize the value of your claim.
Mullen & Mullen’s attorneys live and work right here in Dallas, and always have. We believe in paying our success forward by helping people in the North Texas community, and are dedicated to supporting these local charities.
Our Managing Partner, Shane V. Mullen, has been handling personal injury cases for 21 years. He is “Top-rated” by Thompson Reuters who named him as a Texas Super Lawyer 3 consecutive years. Shane is also a lifetime member of both the Million & Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forums, solidifying his expertise in handling significant cases. He is also an esteemed member of Rue Ratings’ Best Attorneys of America, further attesting to his exceptional legal prowess. Shane brings hard-won, battle born knowledge to your case.
With 18 years of personal injury experience, Attorney Joseph R. Morrison has established himself as a highly skilled legal professional. Notably, he served as counsel of record in a case that garnered recognition from VerdictSearch.com as a top 5 Premises liability (slip and fall) verdict in Texas. The defendant in this case was a Fortune 500 company with an annual revenue exceeding 11 billion. The specific case, Jeffrey Young v. ConAgra Foods, Inc., showcased Joe’s exceptional abilities in achieving favorable outcomes.
Joe is a distinguished member of The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Civil Plaintiff Trial Lawyers, solidifying his standing among the nation’s most esteemed legal practitioners. Furthermore, his membership in both the Million & Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forums further attests to his expertise in handling substantial cases.
Both Shane and Joseph are lifetime members of the Million & Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forums, meaning they have each settled cases in excess of two million. This solidifies their expertise in handling significant personal injury cases.
Our Founder, Attorney Regis L. Mullen, has 56 years of personal injury experience. Regis received his Admission to practice law in 1967. Previously a Litigation Supervisor at Allstate Insurance Company, he knows all the tactics liability carriers use to deny or reduce personal injury settlements. Drawing upon his profound comprehension of the inner workings of the insurance industry, Regis established a law firm dedicated to meeting the legal needs of injured individuals in North Texas.
To witness our legal expertise in action, take a moment to delve into this concise narrative detailing how a client secured a substantial $962,500.00 settlement for a neck injury sustained during a commercial truck accident:
While traveling west on US 287, a truck driver negligently executed an unsafe lane change without due attention. This reckless maneuver resulted in a collision with a motorist, who consequently suffered a neck injury. It’s worth noting that the injured party had a prior history of significant spine surgery in her medical records.
Regrettably, insurance companies often exploit pre-existing conditions to minimize their liability. In this case, it was anticipated that the insurer would argue that some of the injuries sustained by the driver were attributable to her previous major spine surgery.
Nevertheless, under Texas law, the “Eggshell Doctrine” prevails, meaning that the plaintiff is to be accepted as they are, pre-existing conditions notwithstanding. This implies that compensation should be awarded for all injuries directly attributable to the accident, regardless of whether pre-existing conditions exacerbate them.
To bolster the client’s case, Shane Mullen recommended comprehensive documentation of any newly emerged or intensified symptoms. Consequently, the client obtained medical records confirming the emergence of fresh symptoms subsequent to the accident. The client underwent multiple laminectomies to rectify damaged vertebrae.
When negotiations with the insurance company commenced, their predictable argument revolved around the impossibility of the accident’s force necessitating surgery. Shane Mullen countered this by emphasizing the documented emergence of new symptoms and underlining the fact that even a moderate accident could exacerbate pre-existing injuries.
The culmination of this diligent effort was the insurance company’s agreement to a settlement of $962,500.00. What’s more, the client benefitted from a reduced 29% case fee, resulting in savings of $70,000, as her claim was resolved without the need for a lawsuit.
Accidents involving large vehicles, such as semi-trucks and other commercial vehicles, often result in severe injuries or even fatalities. Unfortunately, significant injuries often lead to a pile of medical bills that continue to accumulate. The good news is that we can connect you with high-quality medical professionals and healthcare institutions that are willing to defer payment until your claim is won. This ensures that you won’t have to pay any upfront medical costs, allowing you to receive the necessary medical care without any financial burden.
Are you worried about the medical bills that have already piled up? Don’t fret. We will assist you in managing and eventually resolving those outstanding medical expenses. While your claim is pending, we can also guide you on setting up manageable payment plans with healthcare providers to prevent collection efforts that might adversely affect your credit.
“I have three children under the ages of 6, the youngest one is disabled. I was unable to care for my children, after I was hit by an 18-wheeler. My financial support was lost. When I hired the Mullen & Mullen Law Firm, they immediately earned my trust. They made it easy for me.”
“I was hit by a commercial vehicle… They made sure all my medical needs and expenses were taken care of. I have recovered from my injuries. Shane is a great attorney and I was awarded the maximum. I highly recommend this law firm. They were very professional & sincerely cared about me.”
“I was hit by a commercial truck while stopped at a stop light. Joseph did his absolute best to get me what I deserved. Mullen and Mullen are the best.
“Joseph Morrison did a fabulous job with handling my accident with a commercial vehicle. I was injured and required surgery. Joseph made sure all my bills were covered and handled my case with a caring attitude making sure I received a good settlement. I truly appreciated Joseph and his staff! I would recommend Mullen and Mullen to family and friends.”
“My aunt had met with an accident when a truck rammed into her car. She had suffered severe injuries and had to be kept in the hospital for a long time. Needless to say, the expenses added up to quite a bit, so I was determined to fight for adequate compensation from the other party. It was my friend who recommended your firm to me. Mullen & Mullen is certainly different from the other law firms that I have come across so far. They offered me a free consultation and the contingency charges were very lenient. The best part is that they helped me through all the procedures and ensured that we received the money that was due.”
“Mullen and Mullen was incredible in terms of both how understanding they were to my problems as well as in settling my case quickly and fast. A truck from a local construction company ran into my parked car and pretty much totaled it a few months back. Initially they refused to pay me a dime, and even threatened to bury me in litigation. But as soon as Mullen & Mullen took up my case up, things went so much better. I was compensated for my loss, and I didn’t even have to go to court for it. Those guys do an incredible job.”
Our esteemed Frisco attorneys at Mullen & Mullen achieved notable recognition in 2021, securing a place among Texas’s “Top 10” truck accident personal injury settlements, as reported by TopVerdict.com. Impressively, 19 out of the Texas “Top 50” personal injury settlements for the same year belonged to our valued clients. Among these accolades, one of our claims secured a spot in the prestigious Top 10, while eight others ranked in the Top 11-20, and ten more featured in the Top 21-50, with several pertaining to commercial vehicle accidents. With our reduced contingency fee, we can confidently assert our ability to help you obtain maximum compensation.
The legal professionals at Mullen & Mullen possess the expertise and experience required to handle your commercial vehicle accident case adeptly. Armed with an in-depth knowledge of trucking laws, regulations, and industry practices, our team has successfully managed numerous claims, consistently delivering favorable outcomes for our clients. We are well-versed in the intricacies of such cases, encompassing thorough accident investigations, pinpointing liable parties, collecting compelling evidence, and constructing a robust legal strategy.
Rest assured, when it comes to Frisco truck accident cases, Mullen & Mullen’s seasoned attorneys bring a wealth of expertise to the table, backed by a solid track record of success. Our comprehensive understanding of trucking-related laws, regulations, and industry norms positions us as trusted advocates, ensuring our clients receive the strong representation they deserve. We excel in navigating the complexities of these claims, from meticulous accident scrutiny to identifying culpable parties, amassing compelling evidence, and crafting a formidable legal case.
Trucking and insurance companies are known for their reluctance to fulfill their obligations. They engage in aggressive disputes and frequently employ tactics to delay or deny legitimate claims. Fortunately, you can rely on our extensive combined experience spanning over 95 years. We have dedicated four decades to assisting victims of commercial accidents. In many cases, we can anticipate the next moves of insurance carriers before they make them. They are well aware of our reputation and our unwavering commitment to ensuring fair treatment for you.
An unexpected accident can disrupt your life and leave you in need of immediate financial assistance to stay afloat. We have established partnerships with major “law loan” companies that typically advance 5-10% of your potential final settlement value. We have negotiated with these firms to secure lower interest rates exclusively for Mullen & Mullen clients. Once you engage us as your legal counsel, access to a loan is usually possible once liability and insurance coverage are confirmed. These law loan companies trust our case assessments based on our proven track record of success. It serves as an excellent option if you lack other financial resources.
The burden of proof falls on you to substantiate your claim; failure to do so will result in no compensation for your injuries or financial losses. The compensation you receive hinges greatly on your attorney’s experience and dedication to maximizing your entitlement. With over 95 years of combined experience and our focus on quality rather than quantity, we handle fewer cases. This ensures that your case receives the time and attention it demands, increasing your chances of full compensation for your losses.
A commercial truck accident can be extremely distressing and can have a profound impact on your life. Our firm maintains relationships with counselors who specialize in assisting individuals coping with the aftermath of such incidents. It’s common for injury victims to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a motor vehicle collision. A counselor can help you manage stress, anxiety, depression, or any other mental health issues stemming from your experience.
Mullen & Mullen Law Firm in Frisco is dedicated to providing thorough legal support throughout every stage of your truck accident case. From the initial consultation to the resolution of your case, we stand by your side, offering guidance, support, and robust representation. Our attorneys take the time to comprehend the unique aspects of your case, assess your damages, and formulate a personalized strategy tailored to your specific needs. We do not operate as a high-volume firm, employing an “assembly line” approach.
Investigating a commercial truck accident necessitates specialized knowledge and resources. When necessary, our proficient team conducts a thorough examination of the accident scene, interviews witnesses, and collaborates with accident reconstruction experts to establish liability. Mullen & Mullen Law Firm routinely secures critical evidence, including black box data if available, to construct a compelling case from the outset. In litigation, we can also obtain other evidence such as logbooks and maintenance records if needed.
Commercial truck accidents frequently involve multiple parties, each potentially responsible for the damages incurred. Our experienced lawyers diligently evaluate the circumstances surrounding your case to identify all liable parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturers, maintenance providers, and others. Holding all accountable parties responsible is essential to ensuring you receive the full compensation you are entitled to.
Mullen & Mullen will vigorously negotiate with insurance companies and opposing counsel to secure a fair settlement covering your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, mental distress, impairment, and other damages resulting from the truck accident. If an equitable settlement proves elusive, our highly-rated attorneys are prepared to take your case to court, continuing to fight tirelessly on your behalf. Mullen & Mullen Law Firm attorneys boast a proven track record of success in the courtroom and maintain strong relationships with top litigators throughout the State of Texas.
At our Frisco law firm, you are not merely a case number. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges you may be facing in the aftermath of a commercial truck accident. This is why we prioritize transparent and honest communication with our clients, keeping you informed about the progress of your case, and addressing any concerns or questions you may have along the way. Mullen & Mullen Law Firm provides compassionate support and personalized attention, always placing your best interests at the forefront of our legal strategy.
Rest assured, you won’t need to reach into your wallet until your settlement is secured. What’s more, by choosing Mullen & Mullen Law Firm, you’ll not only avoid upfront costs but also benefit from our reduced 29% contingency fee, a significant departure from the industry norm of 33.3%-35% for settlements without litigation. This 4.3% reduction could make a substantial difference. For instance, on a $500,000 truck accident settlement, it translates to an extra $21,500 in your pocket.
Trucking accidents wield devastating consequences due to the stark size and weight disparities between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles. These incidents frequently lead to severe injuries that cast a long shadow, affecting victims physically, emotionally, and financially. To pursue just compensation and justice, it’s crucial for both accident survivors and their legal advocates to comprehend the prevalent injury types stemming from commercial truck accidents.
Truck accidents often give rise to traumatic brain injuries, spanning from mild concussions to profound brain damage. The abrupt impact or violent jolt can provoke head collisions with objects within the vehicle, resulting in cognitive deficits, memory loss, concentration difficulties, personality changes, and enduring complications. Timely diagnosis and suitable medical intervention play a pivotal role in managing and treating TBIs.
The formidable force involved in truck accidents can inflict harm on the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord injuries engender loss of sensation, compromised motor function, and a profound impact on daily life. Rehabilitation, adaptive equipment, and long-term care typically become necessary to support individuals grappling with spinal cord injuries.
Whiplash, herniated discs, spinal fractures, facet joint syndrome, and other back and neck injuries frequently surface in truck accidents. The sudden jerking motion during a collision can strain or damage muscles, ligaments, and vertebrae, culminating in chronic pain, limited mobility, and prolonged discomfort. Recovery often involves physical therapy, pain management, and occasionally surgical interventions.
The formidable force at play in truck accidents can precipitate fractures and broken bones across the body. Limb fractures, rib fractures, pelvic fractures, and skull fractures are particularly prevalent. These injuries typically necessitate prompt medical attention, surgical procedures, immobilization via casts or braces, and extensive rehabilitation to restore functionality.
The impact of a truck accident can induce significant internal injuries. Organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, or lungs may sustain damage, leading to internal bleeding, organ failure, and life-threatening conditions. Swift medical evaluation and intervention are imperative to address internal injuries, as they may not manifest immediately.
Shattered glass, debris, and objects within the vehicle can give rise to cuts, lacerations, and profound bruising. These injuries range from minor wounds to deep lacerations necessitating stitches or reconstructive surgery. In certain instances, scarring or disfigurement may ensue, causing both physical and emotional distress.
Truck accidents accompanied by fires or explosions may result in burn injuries. The severity of burns varies, encompassing first-degree burns to more severe third-degree burns affecting deeper skin layers and underlying tissues. Burn injuries commonly demand specialized medical treatment, encompassing wound care, skin grafts, and extensive rehabilitation.
Truck accidents exert a profound psychological toll on those involved. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and phobias are common psychological repercussions. Victims may grapple with flashbacks, nightmares, social withdrawal, and challenges resuming daily activities. Psychological support and therapy are indispensable for their recovery.
It’s crucial to note that the extent and nature of injuries can fluctuate based on various factors, including collision speed, impact angle, seatbelt usage, and vehicle size. Seeking immediate medical attention post a commercial truck accident is paramount, even if injuries may initially seem minor, as certain injuries may manifest delayed onset symptoms.
Commercial truck accident claims often involve substantial stakes. The seasoned attorneys at Mullen & Mullen possess the requisite expertise, experience, and financial resources to challenge the trucking companies and their insurers effectively, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Our firm is committed to holding the responsible driver and their employer accountable for your injuries.
Exercise caution during your recovery, as insurance firms may use any means at their disposal to minimize their liability, especially in cases involving commercial trucks. Given the high risk associated with such vehicles, trucking companies are typically insured for at least $1 million, and many insurers have dedicated departments to handle these specific types of claims.
Mullen & Mullen boasts a team of in-house accident investigators who act swiftly to secure a copy of the Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report when available. They diligently document the scene and all vehicles involved through photographs and videos and strive to identify any potential witnesses to strengthen your case. In instances where the police report does not mention witnesses, our team is skilled in canvassing the area to find individuals who can corroborate your claim.
Our attorneys are not only adept at conducting thorough interviews and securing affidavits from witnesses but also employ various tools such as public record searches and the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to gather all pertinent information related to the accident. This includes details about the semi-truck’s driver and the company they represent, ensuring a well-rounded approach to your claim.
Depending on the facts and circumstances of your collision, the following agencies may have documents that could assist your personal injury case:
Our lawyers routinely request documents from various government entities. If you retain Mullen & Mullen Law Firm, we will quickly and efficiently secure all available documents that could be helpful in your case including police officer body worn camera footage when available.
18-wheeler drivers and the companies they work for are generally subject to a substantial number of rules and regulations. Depending on the circumstances of your case, the following could be applicable:
Our attorneys are knowledgeable regarding various rules and regulations applicable to commercial truck drivers. We will identify any possible violations by the trucking company and its driver.
When it comes to pursuing claims for injuries and damages following a commercial truck accident, timing is crucial. It’s essential to initiate various insurance claims promptly, as simply receiving an apology from the truck driver at the scene doesn’t guarantee that the trucking company or its insurance provider will accept liability. Commercial truck drivers often operate under a point system and may avoid being truthful to protect their commercial driver’s license.
After an 18-wheeler accident, there may be multiple insurance claims you can file, some of which our team can assist you with:
Most policies provide insurance coverage of at least $250,000 per person and $500,000 per accident. Often, these limits are higher, such as $1,000,000 per person and $2,000,000 per accident. For instance, if three individuals are injured in the same semi accident, and the at-fault driver’s policy limits are $250,000 per person and $500,000 per accident, each person could receive a maximum of $250,000, and the total liability payout would not exceed $500,000, even if the combined damages exceed that amount.
It’s crucial to explore all potential sources of insurance coverage if you’ve sustained severe injuries in an 18-wheeler accident. Our Frisco lawyers are skilled at identifying whether the semi-tractor-trailer may be covered under separate insurance policies or an umbrella policy, maximizing your potential recovery.
Yes, the driver’s employment status does matter. Employers are generally not held liable for the negligent actions of independent contractors. However, in Texas, the doctrine of Respondeat Superior applies, making companies liable for the negligent actions or omissions of their employees while performing work for the company. For example, if you were injured in an 18-wheeler accident involving a Swift Transportation truck, both the driver and Swift Transportation would be appropriate defendants in a lawsuit.
The available insurance proceeds could depend on whether the semi-tractor-trailer driver was an independent contractor (coverage for the driver only) or an employee (coverage for the driver and the trucking company). Our lawyers are well-versed in the factors used to determine the driver’s status and can make legal arguments to establish that the driver was an employee, even if the trucking company claims the driver was an independent contractor.
When dealing with companies with significant assets, the company’s policy limits may not be a primary concern. For instance, if you suffered severe injuries due to a JB Hunt 18-wheeler, you may not need to worry about insurance limits, as JB Hunt has substantial assets that could be seized in a judgment.
Absolutely not. The repair shops suggested by the insurance of the trucking company are chosen because they usually offer lower repair costs. The trucking company and its insurance want the cost of your vehicle’s damage to appear minimal to suggest the accident was minor. It’s better to get a repair estimate from your own chosen auto dealership or body shop.
Yes, but typically only if your vehicle can be repaired and isn’t considered a total loss. If your vehicle can still be driven and repaired, you’re generally entitled to a comparable rental vehicle for the duration your car is being repaired. If your car is a total loss, you’re most likely to receive just the fair market value of your vehicle, and insurance companies usually don’t cover rental costs after your vehicle is declared a total loss.
Certainly, our attorneys are ready to assist in arranging a rental vehicle for you either while your car is being repaired or while it’s being assessed for total loss by the trucking company’s insurance.
Generally, yes. Proving a loss in value typically requires a professional evaluation. Our firm is prepared to front the costs for this evaluation if your vehicle’s damage justifies it.
In the event of a total loss from an 18-wheeler accident, you are entitled to the fair market value of your vehicle only. This value is determined by the selling price of similar vehicles in the market, not by sources like the Kelly Blue Book or NADA Guide.
Yes, but many of these law loan companies charge a ridiculous interest rate. Most law loan companies require you to be represented to qualify for a loan. Our legal team routinely help clients secure loans that charge a flat fee, as opposed to a continuously compounding loan. This sometimes saves our clients thousands of dollars.
Definitely. Experiencing pain and discomfort after an accident involving an 18-wheeler or another commercial vehicle warrants a hospital visit for a thorough check-up. Given the massive weight and size of semi-tractor trailers, opting for a medical examination is not only prudent for your health but also crucial in countering any claims by the trucking company’s insurance provider that your injuries are minor.
In cases where health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid covers expenses for injuries sustained in a truck accident, these entities typically have the right to reimbursement from your settlement, a process known as subrogation. The amount they can reclaim varies, but our Frisco-based attorneys frequently negotiate reduced claims on health insurance or workers’ compensation liens.
Indeed, some healthcare providers specialize in treating victims of commercial truck accidents, despite many doctors’ reluctance to involve themselves in potential legal issues. At Mullen & Mullen Law Firm, we facilitate access to necessary medical care from a network of professionals experienced in handling such cases, including pain management specialists, surgeons, and more. We can arrange for medical services to be billed only after your case is resolved.
Absolutely. To claim lost wages, thorough documentation is essential to satisfy trucking or insurance companies. Our firm has successfully helped victims secure compensation for lost earnings through various means, including affidavits and financial records.
You can claim for loss of earning capacity, which reflects future wage losses adjusted for their present value, due to your injuries. Our attorneys leverage the expertise of economists and vocational rehabilitation consultants to substantiate these claims.
Beyond lost wages and medical expenses, you may be eligible for other forms of compensation, including:
Mullen & Mullen Law Firm is committed to supporting clients through expert legal representation, backed by over 40 years of experience and a strong network of healthcare and professional experts, ensuring comprehensive care and advocacy for truck accident victims.
Following a commercial truck accident, you may be eligible for compensation that addresses non-economic damages, which include:
Unlike economic damages, which can be quantified (e.g., lost wages), non-economic damages such as pain, suffering, and mental anguish do not have a fixed monetary value. For instance, if an accident caused you to miss work for four months, with a monthly income of $5,000, your economic loss is clearly $20,000. However, quantifying the personal experiences of pain, suffering, and mental distress requires a more nuanced approach, often determined at the discretion of a jury.
At Mullen & Mullen Law Firm, we recognize the power of personal storytelling in conveying the extent of your non-economic damages. We often prepare a “day in the life” video, leveraging our in-house videographer, to showcase the real impact of your injuries on your daily life. This approach can significantly influence the settlement value, offering a vivid illustration of your unique circumstances and the accident’s toll on your life.
It’s important to have a comprehensive evaluation of your case to identify all potential damages, as this list is not exhaustive.
Punitive damages are awarded to penalize particularly reckless or grossly negligent behavior. In Texas, securing these damages can be challenging and requires a thorough case evaluation. Every incident involving an 18-wheeler or commercial vehicle should be assessed for the possibility of punitive damages, especially under circumstances indicating recklessness or gross negligence, such as:
Many attorneys might predict overly optimistic outcomes, but the true value of your claim hinges on the specifics of your injuries and factors that might influence a jury, like evidence of the driver’s negligence at the time of the accident. At Mullen & Mullen, we base our assessment of your claim’s potential value on a thorough review of all relevant case materials and the insurance adjuster’s arguments. We believe in providing realistic expectations, akin to expecting a surgeon to review medical records before offering a prognosis.
Significantly, claims involving objective injuries (e.g., fractures, herniated discs, or conditions requiring surgical intervention) are typically viewed as having greater value compared to more minor injuries like sprains or strains. Our firm is committed to a detailed and honest evaluation to guide you through understanding the potential outcomes of your case.
In cases where your actions contributed to the accident, the concept of comparative negligence comes into play. This means if the court finds you partially at fault, the compensation you’re awarded will be adjusted according to your share of the blame. For instance, if you were awarded $50,000 but found to be 20% responsible, your compensation would decrease to $40,000.
You won’t be disqualified from receiving compensation unless it’s determined that you were more than 50% at fault. If fault is equally shared, you can still recover damages, albeit reduced by your 50% share of the fault.
Under Texas law, you can seek reimbursement for medical expenses incurred as a result of the accident, provided these costs are deemed both reasonable and necessary. It’s common for trucking companies to challenge the validity of certain treatments, often employing a medical expert to conduct a peer review of your medical expenses.
Our practice includes reviewing your medical history before the accident to apply the “Eggshell Plaintiff” doctrine where relevant. This approach also helps us uncover compelling evidence of your pain, suffering, mental anguish, and any physical impairment resulting from the accident.
You retain the right to refuse the trucking company’s last settlement proposal and can opt to take legal action against both the driver and their employer instead.
Deciding whether to accept a settlement or proceed to litigation is a critical choice that should be made based on the specifics of your case. While a pre-litigation offer of $50,000 might initially seem less appealing than a $70,000 offer that comes after filing a lawsuit, several factors can affect the net outcome:
Commercial truck drivers are subject to regulations limiting their driving hours to prevent fatigue. The truck’s daily log provides insight into the distance covered by the driver each day, while the driver management system records crucial information such as geographical location, hours spent driving, and details on the cargo’s weight and distribution.
The Driver Qualification File, as outlined in Title 49 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (parts 382, 383, and 391), is essential for verifying a driver’s competency. These documents, including the driver’s training and certification records, are invaluable for assessing their suitability and safety record behind the wheel.
GPS data, when accessible, is a potent tool in litigation, offering precise details of the truck’s movements, including locations, timings, and the chosen route. Promptly engaging our services allows us to issue a preservation letter to ensure all pertinent data, like GPS records, is safeguarded for your claim.
Call (214) 529-3476 to talk to a Frisco truck accident attorney right now. We won’t put any pressure on you to hire us on the spot. Simply learn how we’ll approach your case and get some excellent free advice. Make your decision only when you feel 100% ready. Do remember though, that the Texas statute of limitations gives you just 2 years from the date of your accident to file a claim.
We’ll come to your home or hospital room if it makes it easier on you! Phone and Zoom consultations are also available. You can call us, or use the form or chat feature on this page to request a free consultation now.
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FRISCO OFFICE
Mullen & Mullen Law Firm in Frisco, TX
2770 Main St #258
Frisco, TX 75033
(214) 529-3476
The Mullen & Mullen family is here to address your concerns and make the path to recovery smooth. There are no fees to get started and you pay $0 if we don’t settle your case.
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LICENSED BY THE STATES OF TEXAS & MISSOURI FOR THE GENERAL PRACTICE OF LAW. The information on this website is not intended to be legal advice. That can only come from a qualified personal injury lawyer who is familiar with all the circumstances and facts of your specific case and the law relevant to it.
