One Person Killed in Brutal 18-Wheeler Crash on Interstate 35 Frontage Road Near FM 1327 [Austin, Texas] – What Austin Families Need to Know

The early morning hours of February 15, 2026, brought tragedy to Austin’s highways when a brutal collision between an 18-wheeler and a passenger vehicle claimed one life on the southbound Interstate 35 frontage road near FM 1327. The crash, reported at 4:19 a.m., occurred in the 13000 block of I-35’s frontage road, a stretch familiar to Austin commuters and long-haul truckers alike.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen firsthand how these devastating incidents change lives in an instant. With over 25 years of experience fighting for Texas families affected by commercial vehicle accidents, our team understands the unique dangers posed by Austin’s trucking corridors. This incident is a stark reminder of why we must hold trucking companies accountable when their negligence leads to preventable tragedies.

The Incident: What We Know

The crash involved an 18-wheeler and a passenger vehicle, resulting in one fatality. Investigators remained at the scene through Saturday morning, and the Texas Department of Transportation reported that all three lanes and both shoulders were closed following the 4:23 a.m. crash report. The roadway was expected to reopen within a few hours, but for the victim’s family, the impact will last a lifetime.

Key facts from the incident:
– Location: 13000 block of southbound I-35 frontage road near FM 1327
– Time: 4:19 a.m. (crash reported at 4:23 a.m.)
– Vehicles: 18-wheeler and passenger vehicle
– Fatalities: 1 person killed
– Injuries: No other injuries reported
– Road Closure: All three lanes and both shoulders closed
– Investigation: Ongoing through Saturday morning

This timeline reveals critical details about the crash. The early morning hour raises questions about driver fatigue, a leading cause of trucking accidents that we’ll explore in depth. The complete road closure suggests a severe collision, likely involving significant vehicle damage or hazardous conditions.

Why This Location Matters for Austin Drivers

The I-35 frontage road near FM 1327 is a critical artery for Austin’s transportation network. This stretch of highway serves as a vital connection between Austin’s urban core and surrounding communities, handling a mix of local commuter traffic and long-haul trucking operations.

Austin’s Trucking Corridors and Their Risks:

The I-35 corridor is particularly dangerous for several reasons:

1. Mixed Traffic Patterns: The highway handles both local commuter traffic and long-haul trucking operations, creating conflicts between vehicles traveling at different speeds with different stopping distances.
2. Frontage Road Access: The frontage roads create multiple points of conflict as vehicles enter and exit the highway, often at speeds that don’t match the main traffic flow.
3. Early Morning Hours: The 4:19 a.m. crash time coincides with when fatigue-related accidents are most common among commercial drivers.
4. Construction Zones: Austin’s ongoing infrastructure projects often create temporary hazards and lane shifts that can be particularly dangerous for large trucks.
5. High Truck Volume: I-35 is one of the busiest trucking corridors in Texas, serving as a primary route for goods moving between Mexico, Austin, and points north.

Ralph Manginello, our managing partner with over 25 years of experience in trucking litigation, notes: “The I-35 corridor through Austin presents unique challenges. The combination of high truck volume, commuter traffic, and complex interchange configurations creates a perfect storm for catastrophic accidents. This latest tragedy underscores why we must be particularly vigilant about trucking safety on our local highways.”

The Early Morning Danger: Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

The 4:19 a.m. crash time is particularly concerning. Research shows that fatigue-related truck crashes peak during early morning hours, particularly between midnight and 6 a.m. This timeframe coincides with the body’s natural circadian rhythm low point, when alertness is at its lowest.

FMCSA Hours of Service Regulations (49 CFR Part 395):

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established strict hours of service (HOS) regulations to combat driver fatigue:

Why Early Morning Crashes Are Particularly Dangerous:

1. Circadian Rhythm Disruption: The human body is programmed to sleep during nighttime hours. Driving during these periods goes against natural biological rhythms.
2. Reduced Visibility: Early morning hours often feature low light conditions, fog, or glare that can obscure hazards.
3. Increased Impairment: Studies show that being awake for 18 hours produces impairment equivalent to a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05%.
4. Higher Risk of Microsleeps: Fatigued drivers may experience brief episodes of sleep lasting 4-5 seconds, enough to travel hundreds of feet at highway speeds.
5. Delayed Reaction Times: Fatigue slows cognitive processing and reaction times, making it harder to respond to sudden hazards.

FMCSA Violation Patterns in Texas:

Texas consistently ranks among the states with the highest number of HOS violations. In 2025, Texas trucking companies were cited for:

• 12,456 hours of service violations
• 8,723 false log book entries
• 5,342 driving beyond the 11-hour limit
• 3,891 violations of the 14-hour on-duty window

These statistics demonstrate a systemic problem with fatigue management in the Texas trucking industry. When we investigate trucking accidents, we routinely find patterns of HOS violations that suggest companies prioritize delivery schedules over driver safety.

The Investigation: What Happens Next

The ongoing investigation at the scene is critical for determining what caused this fatal crash. Here’s what typically happens in these investigations and what evidence we would pursue if representing the victim’s family:

Immediate Investigation Steps:

1. Scene Documentation:
   – Photographic evidence of vehicle positions, skid marks, debris fields
   – Measurement of roadway geometry and sight distances
   – Documentation of weather and lighting conditions
2. Vehicle Inspection:
   – Mechanical condition of both vehicles
   – Brake system analysis
   – Tire condition and tread depth
   – Electronic data retrieval (ECM/black box)
3. Driver Evaluation:
   – Drug and alcohol testing (required by FMCSA within 8 hours)
   – Hours of service compliance review
   – Driver qualification file review
   – Cell phone records analysis
4. Witness Interviews:
   – Statements from any witnesses
   – Review of dashcam or surveillance footage
   – Analysis of 911 call recordings

Critical Evidence in Trucking Cases:

Why Immediate Action Is Critical:

At Attorney911, we know that evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. That’s why we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained to preserve critical evidence before it’s lost or destroyed. In this case, we would immediately demand preservation of:

• The truck’s ECM/black box data
• ELD records for the driver and vehicle
• Driver qualification file
• Maintenance and inspection records
• Cell phone records
• Dashcam footage (if available)
• Dispatch communications
• Drug and alcohol test results

Ralph Manginello emphasizes: “In trucking cases, the first 48 hours are critical. Black box data can be overwritten, dashcam footage gets deleted, and witnesses’ memories fade. We’ve seen cases where critical evidence was lost because families waited too long to seek legal representation. That’s why we urge anyone affected by a trucking accident to contact us immediately.”

Potential Causes of This Crash

While the official investigation is ongoing, our experience with similar incidents suggests several potential causes that may have contributed to this fatal collision:

1. Driver Fatigue

The early morning crash time strongly suggests fatigue may have played a role. Fatigue is a factor in approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes nationwide.

Fatigue Indicators in This Case:
– 4:19 a.m. crash time (circadian rhythm low point)
– Potential HOS violations (driving beyond 11-hour limit)
– Possible falsification of log books
– Early morning hours when fatigue-related crashes peak

FMCSA Regulations Potentially Violated:
– 49 CFR § 392.3 – Ill or fatigued operator
– 49 CFR § 395.3 – Maximum driving time
– 49 CFR § 395.8 – False records of duty status

2. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a growing problem in the trucking industry, particularly with the use of electronic devices for dispatch communications.

Potential Distractions:
– Cell phone use (texting, calls, GPS)
– Dispatch communications via electronic devices
– In-cab technology (navigation systems, fleet management)
– Eating or drinking while driving
– External distractions (looking at accidents, scenery)

FMCSA Regulations Potentially Violated:
– 49 CFR § 392.82 – Using a hand-held mobile telephone
– 49 CFR § 392.80 – Texting while driving

3. Speeding or Inadequate Speed for Conditions

Speed is a factor in approximately 23% of fatal truck crashes. The I-35 frontage road has posted speed limits that may be too high for safe truck operation, particularly during early morning hours.

Speed-Related Factors:
– Excessive speed for road conditions
– Failure to reduce speed in construction zones
– Speeding to meet delivery deadlines
– Inadequate following distance

FMCSA Regulations Potentially Violated:
– 49 CFR § 392.6 – Speeding for conditions
– 49 CFR § 392.11 – Following too closely

4. Vehicle Maintenance Failures

Mechanical failures contribute to thousands of truck crashes annually. Common maintenance issues include brake failures, tire blowouts, and lighting problems.

Potential Maintenance Issues:
– Brake system failures (29% of truck crashes involve brake problems)
– Tire blowouts (11,000 crashes annually)
– Lighting failures (reduced visibility)
– Steering system defects
– Coupling device failures

FMCSA Regulations Potentially Violated:
– 49 CFR § 393.40-55 – Brake system requirements
– 49 CFR § 393.75 – Tire requirements
– 49 CFR § 393.11-26 – Lighting requirements
– 49 CFR § 396.3 – Systematic inspection and maintenance

5. Improper Lane Changes or Merging

The I-35 frontage road presents multiple merging points where trucks must navigate complex traffic patterns.

Lane Change Risks:
– Blind spot accidents (No-Zone crashes)
– Improper merging from frontage roads
– Failure to signal lane changes
– Aggressive driving behaviors

FMCSA Regulations Potentially Violated:
– 49 CFR § 392.11 – Unsafe lane changes
– 49 CFR § 392.2 – Failure to obey traffic signals

6. Cargo Securement Failures

Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, affecting vehicle stability and causing rollover accidents.

Cargo Securement Risks:
– Shifting loads affecting vehicle stability
– Falling cargo creating road hazards
– Overweight loads exceeding vehicle capacity
– Improper tiedowns or blocking

FMCSA Regulations Potentially Violated:
– 49 CFR § 393.100-136 – Cargo securement requirements

7. Driver Qualification Issues

Trucking companies are required to thoroughly vet their drivers, but we often find negligent hiring practices.

Potential Qualification Issues:
– Inadequate background checks
– Hiring drivers with poor safety records
– Insufficient training
– Failure to verify medical certification
– Hiring drivers without proper CDL endorsements

FMCSA Regulations Potentially Violated:
– 49 CFR § 391.11 – Driver qualifications
– 49 CFR § 391.21 – Employment application requirements
– 49 CFR § 391.41 – Physical qualifications

The Human Cost: What This Means for the Victim’s Family

While the article reports that only one person was killed in this crash, the human cost extends far beyond the immediate fatality. The victim’s family now faces a lifetime of emotional and financial challenges.

Potential Wrongful Death Damages in Texas:

Texas Wrongful Death Law:

Texas law allows certain family members to bring wrongful death claims:

• Surviving spouse
• Children (including adult children)
• Parents
• Estate representative (for survival action)

The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Texas is 2 years from the date of death. This means the family has a limited window to take legal action.

Ralph Manginello shares: “We’ve represented countless families who’ve lost loved ones in trucking accidents. The grief is overwhelming, and the financial burden can be crushing. Many families don’t realize they have legal options or that they can hold the trucking company accountable. Our job is to guide them through this difficult process and fight for the compensation they deserve.”

Holding Trucking Companies Accountable: Legal Options for the Family

When a trucking accident claims a life, multiple parties may be liable for the damages. Our experience shows that trucking companies often try to limit their liability, but Texas law provides avenues for holding them fully accountable.

Potentially Liable Parties in This Case:

1. The Truck Driver
   – Direct negligence (speeding, fatigue, distraction)
   – Violation of traffic laws
   – Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
2. The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)
   – Vicarious liability for driver’s actions
   – Negligent hiring practices
   – Inadequate training
   – Negligent supervision
   – Pressure to violate hours of service regulations
   – Negligent maintenance
3. The Cargo Owner/Shipper
   – Improper loading instructions
   – Failure to disclose hazardous cargo
   – Pressure to meet unrealistic delivery schedules
4. The Loading Company
   – Improper cargo securement
   – Unbalanced load distribution
   – Overweight loading
5. Truck or Parts Manufacturers
   – Defective brake systems
   – Faulty tires
   – Defective steering components
   – Inadequate safety systems
6. Maintenance Companies
   – Negligent repairs
   – Failure to identify safety issues
   – Use of substandard parts
7. Freight Brokers
   – Negligent selection of unsafe carriers
   – Failure to verify carrier safety records

Legal Theories for Holding Trucking Companies Liable:

1. Respondeat Superior (Vicarious Liability):
   The trucking company is responsible for the driver’s actions while performing job duties.
2. Negligent Hiring:
   The company failed to properly vet the driver’s qualifications, safety record, or fitness for duty.
3. Negligent Training:
   The company provided inadequate training on safety procedures, hours of service compliance, or vehicle operation.
4. Negligent Supervision:
   The company failed to monitor the driver’s performance, hours of service compliance, or safety record.
5. Negligent Maintenance:
   The company failed to properly maintain the vehicle, leading to mechanical failures.
6. Negligent Entrustment:
   The company allowed an unqualified or unsafe driver to operate a commercial vehicle.
7. Negligence Per Se:
   The company violated FMCSA regulations, creating a presumption of negligence.

Recent Texas Trucking Verdicts Demonstrating Accountability:

While we cannot comment on specific cases we’ve handled due to confidentiality agreements, recent public verdicts in Texas demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

1. Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (2021) – $730 Million
   – Oversize load killed 73-year-old woman
   – $480 million compensatory damages
   – $250 million punitive damages
   – Demonstrated gross negligence in permitting practices
2. Werner Enterprises Settlement (2022) – $150 Million
   – Two children killed on I-30
   – Largest 18-wheeler settlement in U.S. history
   – Involved hours of service violations and fatigue
3. Fort Worth Trucking Verdict (2025) – $35 Million
   – Largest verdict in Tarrant County history
   – Involved catastrophic injuries from rear-end collision
4. Multiple $10-50 Million Verdicts (2023-2025)
   – Various Texas courts
   – Involving fatigue, maintenance failures, and negligent hiring

These verdicts show that Texas juries are willing to hold trucking companies accountable when their negligence leads to catastrophic injuries or fatalities.

The Trucking Industry’s Safety Record: A Pattern of Negligence

The trucking industry has a documented history of safety violations that contribute to preventable accidents. At Attorney911, we’ve seen this pattern repeatedly in our cases.

Texas Trucking Industry Statistics (2025):

Common Trucking Company Violations We See in Our Cases:

1. Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395):
   – Driving beyond 11-hour limit
   – Falsifying log books
   – Inadequate rest breaks
   – Exceeding weekly limits
2. Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391):
   – Hiring drivers with poor safety records
   – Incomplete background checks
   – Failure to verify medical certification
   – Inadequate training programs
3. Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396):
   – Deferred brake repairs
   – Worn or improperly inflated tires
   – Inadequate lighting
   – Failure to conduct required inspections
4. Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR Part 393):
   – Inadequate tiedowns
   – Improper load distribution
   – Overweight loads
   – Failure to inspect cargo during transit
5. Distracted Driving Violations (49 CFR Part 392):
   – Cell phone use while driving
   – Texting while driving
   – Use of electronic dispatch devices
   – In-cab distractions

The Economic Pressure Behind Safety Violations:

Trucking companies operate on thin profit margins, creating pressure to cut corners on safety:

• Driver Pay: Many drivers are paid by the mile, incentivizing longer hours and faster driving
• Delivery Pressures: Just-in-time delivery systems create unrealistic schedules
• Maintenance Costs: Deferring maintenance saves money in the short term
• Insurance Costs: Some companies self-insure or carry minimal coverage
• Regulatory Arbitrage: Some companies reincorporate after safety violations to avoid consequences

Lupe Peña, our associate attorney and former insurance defense lawyer, explains: “I’ve seen firsthand how insurance companies evaluate trucking claims. They look for any opportunity to minimize payouts, often blaming the victim or arguing that injuries aren’t as severe as claimed. That’s why it’s so important for families to have experienced legal representation that knows these tactics inside and out.”

What Austin Families Should Do After a Trucking Accident

If you or a loved one is involved in a trucking accident in Austin, taking the right steps immediately can make a significant difference in your case.

Immediate Steps After a Trucking Accident:

1. Call 911 Immediately
   – Report the accident and request medical assistance
   – Ensure police respond to document the scene
2. Seek Medical Attention
   – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by medical professionals
   – Adrenaline can mask serious injuries
   – Medical records create critical documentation for your case
3. Document the Scene
   – Take photographs of:
   • All vehicles involved
   • Vehicle damage (interior and exterior)
   • Skid marks and debris
   • Road conditions and signage
   • Your injuries
   • The accident location
   • Record video if possible
4. Collect Information
   – Truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
   – Trucking company name and DOT number
   – Insurance information for all parties
   – Witness names and contact information
   – Responding officer’s name and badge number
5. Preserve Evidence
   – Do not repair or dispose of your vehicle
   – Keep all medical records and bills
   – Save clothing and personal items damaged in the crash
   – Document your recovery process
6. Be Cautious with Statements
   – Do not give recorded statements to insurance companies
   – Do not admit fault or apologize
   – Be careful what you post on social media
7. Contact an Experienced Trucking Accident Attorney
   – Time is critical in trucking cases
   – Evidence disappears quickly
   – Trucking companies have rapid-response teams protecting their interests

Why You Need an Attorney Immediately:

1. Evidence Preservation:
   – We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
   – Critical data (ECM, ELD, dashcam) can be overwritten or deleted
   – Witness memories fade quickly
2. Investigation:
   – We obtain and analyze black box data
   – We review driver qualification files
   – We examine maintenance records
   – We investigate the trucking company’s safety history
3. Insurance Negotiation:
   – Insurance companies will try to minimize your claim
   – We know their tactics from the inside
   – We fight for full and fair compensation
4. Legal Protection:
   – We handle all communications with insurance companies
   – We protect you from legal pitfalls
   – We ensure your rights are preserved
5. Maximizing Compensation:
   – We identify all liable parties
   – We pursue all available insurance coverage
   – We fight for compensation for all your damages

Ralph Manginello advises: “Many families make the mistake of waiting to see how their injuries develop before contacting an attorney. But in trucking cases, waiting even a few days can mean losing critical evidence. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests. You need someone protecting yours.”

The Attorney911 Difference: Why Choose Our Firm

At Attorney911, we’ve built our reputation on fighting for families affected by trucking accidents. Our unique combination of experience, resources, and commitment sets us apart.

Our Advantages:

1. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience
   – Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998
   – We’ve handled hundreds of trucking cases
   – We understand the trucking industry’s tactics
2. Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff
   – Lupe Peña worked for a national insurance defense firm
   – He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate claims
   – He uses that insider knowledge to fight for you
3. Federal Court Experience
   – Admitted to U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
   – Experience handling interstate trucking cases
   – Ability to pursue cases across state lines
4. Multi-Million Dollar Results
   – We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims
   – Our track record demonstrates our ability to win
   – We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial
5. Comprehensive Resources
   – Access to top accident reconstruction experts
   – Relationships with medical specialists
   – Network of vocational and economic experts
6. Personalized Attention
   – You’re not just a case number
   – We treat our clients like family
   – We’re available 24/7 for your questions
7. No Fee Unless We Win
   – We work on contingency
   – You pay nothing upfront
   – We advance all case costs

Our Process:

1. Free Case Evaluation
   – We review your case at no cost
   – We explain your legal options
   – We answer all your questions
2. Immediate Evidence Preservation
   – We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
   – We secure critical evidence before it’s lost
   – We begin our investigation immediately
3. Comprehensive Investigation
   – We obtain and analyze black box data
   – We review driver qualification files
   – We examine maintenance records
   – We investigate the trucking company’s safety history
4. Medical Care Coordination
   – We help you get the treatment you need
   – We work with top medical specialists
   – We document your injuries thoroughly
5. Aggressive Negotiation
   – We fight for full and fair compensation
   – We know the insurance companies’ tactics
   – We don’t accept lowball offers
6. Trial Preparation
   – We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial
   – We build a strong case from day one
   – We’re not afraid to take your case to court

Client Testimonials:

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client

The Road Ahead: What to Expect in Your Case

If you choose to pursue legal action after a trucking accident, understanding the process can help you navigate this challenging time.

Typical Case Timeline:

Potential Outcomes:

1. Settlement:
   – Most cases settle before trial
   – Settlement amount depends on:
   • Severity of injuries
   • Medical expenses
   • Lost wages
   • Pain and suffering
   • Degree of negligence
   • Available insurance coverage
2. Trial:
   – Cases go to trial when:
   • Liability is disputed
   • Settlement offers are inadequate
   • Punitive damages are sought
   • Jury determines fault and damages
3. Appeal:
   – Either side may appeal the verdict
   – Appeals process can take 1-2 years
   – Most cases are resolved before appeal

Damages You May Recover:

Preventing Future Tragedies: What Austin Can Do

This fatal crash on I-35’s frontage road near FM 1327 should serve as a wake-up call for Austin. We can and must do better to protect our families from preventable trucking accidents.

Policy Recommendations for Austin:

1. Enhanced Truck Safety Enforcement:
   – Increase DPS inspections on I-35 and other high-risk corridors
   – Focus on hours of service compliance and vehicle maintenance
   – Implement targeted enforcement during early morning hours
2. Infrastructure Improvements:
   – Separate truck and commuter traffic where possible
   – Improve frontage road design to reduce conflicts
   – Enhance lighting and signage in high-risk areas
   – Install rumble strips and other safety features
3. Technology Solutions:
   – Expand use of weigh-in-motion systems
   – Implement truck-specific traffic management systems
   – Encourage adoption of advanced safety technologies (automatic braking, lane departure warnings)
4. Public Education:
   – Teach drivers how to share the road safely with trucks
   – Educate about truck blind spots (No-Zones)
   – Promote awareness of fatigue-related risks
5. Industry Accountability:
   – Strengthen penalties for safety violations
   – Increase transparency of trucking company safety records
   – Encourage adoption of safety management systems
6. Data-Driven Safety:
   – Analyze crash data to identify high-risk locations
   – Implement targeted safety improvements
   – Monitor effectiveness of safety initiatives

Ralph Manginello states: “Every fatal trucking accident is preventable. When we see patterns like this early morning crash on I-35, it’s a sign that systemic changes are needed. At Attorney911, we’re committed to not only helping families after tragedies occur, but also advocating for policies that prevent these crashes from happening in the first place.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Trucking Accidents in Austin

1. How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Texas?

Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims. This means you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, you should contact an attorney immediately because critical evidence can disappear quickly.

2. What if the truck driver says I caused the accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation as long as you were not more than 50% responsible. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault, you can recover 80% of your damages.

3. How much is my trucking accident case worth?

Case values vary widely depending on:
– Severity of injuries
– Medical expenses (past and future)
– Lost wages and earning capacity
– Pain and suffering
– Degree of negligence
– Available insurance coverage

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits than typical auto policies, often $750,000 to $5,000,000 or more. This allows for larger recoveries in catastrophic injury cases.

4. What evidence is most important in a trucking accident case?

Critical evidence includes:
– ECM/black box data
– ELD records
– Driver qualification file
– Maintenance records
– Cell phone records
– Dashcam footage
– Witness statements
– Police accident report
– Medical records

5. Should I give a statement to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

No. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not for you. Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim. Politely decline to give a statement and refer them to your attorney.

6. What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?

Be very cautious about early settlement offers. These are often lowball offers designed to pay you far less than your case is worth. Never accept a settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

7. Can I sue the trucking company even if the driver was an independent contractor?

Yes. Even if the driver was an independent contractor, the trucking company may still be liable for:
– Negligent hiring
– Negligent training
– Negligent supervision
– Negligent maintenance
– Pressure to violate safety regulations

8. What if the trucking company goes out of business?

Even if the trucking company goes out of business, you may still have options:
– The company’s insurance policy may still be in effect
– Other liable parties may have insurance coverage
– You may be able to pursue claims against individual owners
– The company’s assets may still be available

9. How long does a trucking accident case take to resolve?

Case 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.

10. Do I need a lawyer for a trucking accident case?

Yes. Trucking accident cases are complex and involve:
– Multiple liable parties
– Federal and state regulations
– Complex insurance policies
– Aggressive defense tactics
– High-stakes damages

Statistics show that accident victims with attorneys receive significantly higher settlements than those who represent themselves.

The Bottom Line: Justice for Austin Families

The fatal 18-wheeler crash on I-35’s frontage road near FM 1327 is a tragic reminder of the dangers Austin families face every day on our highways. While we extend our deepest condolences to the victim’s family, we also recognize that this incident reflects broader safety issues that demand attention.

At Attorney911, we’ve dedicated our careers to holding trucking companies accountable when their negligence leads to preventable tragedies. We’ve seen firsthand how these crashes devastate families, and we’ve fought to secure the compensation they need to rebuild their lives.

Key Takeaways for Austin Families:

1. Trucking accidents are different from typical car crashes – they involve complex regulations, multiple liable parties, and higher insurance limits.
2. Evidence disappears quickly – black box data, dashcam footage, and other critical evidence can be lost within days.
3. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams working to protect their interests – you need someone protecting yours.
4. Fatigue, distraction, and maintenance failures are leading causes of trucking accidents, particularly during early morning hours.
5. Texas juries are holding trucking companies accountable with multi-million dollar verdicts when gross negligence is proven.
6. You have legal options – even if you think the accident was partially your fault, you may still be entitled to compensation.
7. Time is critical – the 2-year statute of limitations means you have a limited window to take action.

Ralph Manginello concludes: “Every time we see a tragedy like this on Austin’s highways, it reinforces why we do what we do. Trucking companies have a responsibility to operate safely, and when they fail in that responsibility, they must be held accountable. Our mission at Attorney911 is to ensure that families affected by trucking accidents get the justice and compensation they deserve.”

Take Action Now: Protect Your Rights

If you or a loved one has been affected by a trucking accident in Austin, time is of the essence. Critical evidence is disappearing every day, and the trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests.

Here’s what you should do right now:

1. Call Attorney911 for a free case evaluation
   – We’ll review your case at no cost
   – We’ll explain your legal options
   – We’ll answer all your questions
2. Don’t wait – evidence is disappearing
   – Black box data can be overwritten
   – Dashcam footage gets deleted
   – Witness memories fade
3. Let us handle the trucking company
   – We know their tactics from the inside
   – We’ll fight for full and fair compensation
   – We won’t let them take advantage of you

Contact Attorney911 Today:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📞 (713) 528-9070 (Direct Houston line)
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 https://attorney911.com

We’re available 24/7 to help you. Call now for your free consultation.

Hablamos Español. Lupe Peña y nuestro equipo bilingüe están listos para ayudarle.

Don’t let the trucking company win. At Attorney911, we fight for Austin families affected by trucking accidents. With 25+ years of experience, a former insurance defense attorney on our team, and a track record of multi-million dollar results, we have the knowledge and resources to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

Your fight starts with one call: 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer. We fight. We win.