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New Braunfels 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys: Attorney911 Delivers 25+ Years of Courtroom-Tested Trucking Litigation Experience with Multi-Million Dollar Verdicts, Former Insurance Defense Attorney Insider Knowledge, and FMCSA 49 CFR Regulation Mastery to Fight for New Braunfels Victims on I-35 and Beyond – Jackknife, Rollover, Underride, Brake Failure, and All Catastrophic Crash Types Including TBI, Spinal Cord Injuries, Amputations, and Wrongful Death – Federal Court Admitted, Black Box & ELD Data Extraction Specialists, Same-Day Evidence Preservation, Free 24/7 Consultation, No Fee Unless We Win, Hablamos Español, 1-888-ATTY-911 – Trusted by New Braunfels Families Since 1998 with 4.9★ Google Ratings and $50+ Million Recovered for Texas Trucking Crash Victims

February 10, 2026 34 min read
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18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in New Braunfels: Your Guide to Justice After a Truck Crash

Every year, thousands of 18-wheeler accidents occur on New Braunfels highways and throughout the Texas Hill Country. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in New Braunfels, you need an attorney who understands federal trucking regulations, Texas state laws, and how to hold negligent trucking companies fully accountable.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. We know New Braunfels’s trucking corridors, from I-35 to the distribution centers along Highway 46, and we’re ready to put that local knowledge to work for your case.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in New Braunfels Are Different

New Braunfels sits at the crossroads of major Texas trucking routes. I-35 serves as the primary north-south freight corridor connecting San Antonio to Austin and beyond, while Highway 46 and FM 306 handle significant local and regional truck traffic. The city’s proximity to major distribution centers and its role as a gateway to the Texas Hill Country create unique trucking accident risks.

Common New Braunfels Trucking Accident Scenarios

  1. I-35 Corridor Crashes: The stretch of I-35 through New Braunfels and Guadalupe County sees heavy truck traffic, particularly during peak travel times and holiday seasons. Rear-end collisions, jackknife accidents, and tire blowouts are common as trucks navigate the highway’s curves and elevation changes.

  2. Highway 46 and FM 306 Intersections: These local routes intersect with major highways and see significant truck traffic from distribution centers and local businesses. Wide turn accidents and blind spot collisions frequently occur at these intersections.

  3. Distribution Center Loading Zones: New Braunfels hosts several major distribution centers that generate significant truck traffic. Cargo securement failures and loading zone accidents are common in these areas.

  4. Tourist Season Congestion: During peak tourist seasons, particularly around the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers, increased traffic combined with truck traffic creates dangerous conditions that lead to accidents.

  5. Oil and Gas Trucking: While not as prevalent as in other Texas regions, oil field trucking does occur in the New Braunfels area, particularly along routes connecting to the Eagle Ford Shale region.

The Devastating Impact of 18-Wheeler Accidents

When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. The physics of these crashes make severe injuries the norm, not the exception:

  • Size and Weight Disparity: A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh 20-25 times more than a passenger car
  • Impact Force: The kinetic energy of a truck at highway speed is approximately 80 times greater than that of a car
  • Stopping Distance: At 65 mph, an 18-wheeler needs nearly 525 feet to stop – nearly two football fields

Common Catastrophic Injuries in New Braunfels Trucking Accidents

  1. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): The extreme forces in truck crashes often cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull, resulting in mild to severe brain injuries.

  2. Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis: Damage to the spinal cord can result in paraplegia (loss of function below the waist) or quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs).

  3. Amputations: Crushing forces or severe burns may require surgical amputation of limbs.

  4. Severe Burns: Fuel tank ruptures, cargo fires, or chemical spills can cause third and fourth-degree burns requiring skin grafts and multiple surgeries.

  5. Internal Organ Damage: The force of impact can rupture organs, cause internal bleeding, or result in organ failure.

  6. Wrongful Death: Tragically, many 18-wheeler accidents in New Braunfels result in fatalities, leaving families to cope with devastating loss.

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

Why You Need a New Braunfels 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer Immediately

Evidence in trucking accident cases disappears quickly. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act fast, critical evidence will be lost forever.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

At Attorney911, we implement an aggressive 48-hour evidence preservation protocol for every New Braunfels trucking accident case:

  1. Spoliation Letters: We send formal legal notices to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence.

  2. ECM/Black Box Data: We demand immediate download of the truck’s Electronic Control Module and Event Data Recorder, which record speed, braking, throttle position, and other critical data.

  3. ELD Records: We secure Electronic Logging Device records that prove hours of service violations and driver fatigue.

  4. Dashcam Footage: We demand preservation of any dashcam or forward-facing camera footage before it’s overwritten.

  5. Physical Evidence: We secure the truck and trailer before they’re repaired or scrapped, and preserve failed components for expert analysis.

  6. Witness Interviews: We locate and interview witnesses while memories are fresh.

“Evidence in New Braunfels 18-wheeler accident cases disappears quickly. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Trucking companies in New Braunfels and nationwide hire rapid-response teams to protect their interests. You need an attorney who moves just as fast.”
— Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner

How Trucking Companies Violate FMCSA Regulations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates all commercial motor vehicles operating in interstate commerce. These regulations are designed to prevent accidents, but trucking companies frequently violate them to cut costs or meet unrealistic delivery schedules.

Most Common FMCSA Violations in New Braunfels Trucking Accidents

  1. Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395):

    • Driving beyond the 11-hour limit
    • Exceeding the 14-hour on-duty window
    • Skipping required 30-minute breaks
    • Falsifying ELD logs
    • Violating weekly 60/70-hour limits
  2. Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR Part 391):

    • Hiring drivers without proper CDLs
    • Failing to conduct background checks
    • Employing drivers with suspended licenses
    • Not maintaining Driver Qualification Files
    • Hiring drivers with poor safety records
  3. Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR Part 396):

    • Failure to conduct pre-trip inspections
    • Ignoring known mechanical defects
    • Deferred brake maintenance
    • Worn or improperly inflated tires
    • Inoperative lighting or reflectors
  4. Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR Part 393):

    • Inadequate tiedowns
    • Improper load distribution
    • Failure to use blocking or bracing
    • Overloading beyond weight limits
    • Loose tarps allowing cargo shift
  5. Distracted Driving Violations (49 CFR § 392.82):

    • Texting while driving
    • Using hand-held mobile phones
    • Dispatch communications while driving
    • GPS programming while in motion

Who Is Liable in Your New Braunfels Trucking Accident?

18-wheeler accidents are fundamentally different from car accidents because multiple parties can be responsible for your injuries. Unlike a simple car crash where usually only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve a web of companies and individuals who all contributed to the dangerous conditions that caused the crash.

The 10 Potentially Liable Parties in New Braunfels Trucking Accidents

  1. The Truck Driver:

    • Speeding or reckless driving
    • Distracted driving (cell phone, GPS, dispatch communications)
    • Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
    • Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol, prescription medication)
    • Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
    • Violation of traffic laws (running red lights, failure to yield)
  2. The Trucking Company/Motor Carrier:

    • Vicarious Liability: Employers are responsible for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment
    • Negligent Hiring: Hiring unqualified or dangerous drivers
    • Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training
    • Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver behavior
    • Negligent Maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep
    • Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate HOS regulations
  3. The Cargo Owner/Shipper:

    • Providing improper loading instructions
    • Failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
    • Requiring overweight loading
    • Pressuring carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
    • Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics
  4. The Cargo Loading Company:

    • Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
    • Unbalanced load distribution
    • Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
    • Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
    • Not training loaders on securement requirements
  5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturer:

    • Design defects (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement)
    • Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
    • Failure to warn of known dangers
    • Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)
  6. Parts Manufacturer:

    • Defective brakes or brake components
    • Defective tires causing blowouts
    • Defective steering mechanisms
    • Defective lighting components
    • Defective coupling devices
  7. Maintenance Company:

    • Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
    • Failure to identify critical safety issues
    • Improper brake adjustments
    • Using substandard or wrong parts
    • Returning vehicles to service with known defects
  8. Freight Broker:

    • Negligent selection of carrier with poor safety record
    • Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
    • Failure to check carrier CSA scores
    • Selecting cheapest carrier despite safety concerns
  9. Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier):

    • Negligent entrustment of vehicle
    • Failure to maintain owned equipment
    • Knowledge of driver’s unfitness
  10. Government Entity:

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

“Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years inside the system. He watched adjusters minimize claims. He saw how they train their people to lowball victims. Now he exposes those tactics and uses his insider knowledge to fight for you.”
— Attorney911 Team

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in New Braunfels

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in New Braunfels, take these steps immediately if you’re able:

  1. Call 911 and report the accident – This creates an official record and ensures police and emergency responders are dispatched.

  2. Seek medical attention immediately – Even if injuries seem minor, adrenaline masks pain. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days.

  3. Document the scene thoroughly – If possible:

    • Take photos of all vehicle damage (truck and your vehicle)
    • Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, and skid marks
    • Take photos of your injuries
    • Capture the truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company name
    • Get the driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
    • Collect witness names and phone numbers
  4. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company – Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim.

  5. Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately – Critical evidence (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send spoliation letters within hours to preserve this evidence.

How Attorney911 Builds Your New Braunfels Trucking Accident Case

At Attorney911, we follow a comprehensive investigation protocol for every New Braunfels trucking accident case:

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

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents We Handle in New Braunfels

  1. Jackknife Accidents:

    • Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
    • Empty or lightly loaded trailers more prone to swing
    • Often results in multi-vehicle pileups
  2. Underride Collisions:

    • Passenger vehicles slide underneath trailer
    • Trailer height often causes decapitation or catastrophic head injuries
    • Side underride particularly deadly (no federal guard requirement)
  3. Tire Blowout Accidents:

    • Poor maintenance, overloading, manufacturing defects
    • Steer tire blowouts especially dangerous
    • Debris from blowouts can strike following vehicles
  4. Rollover Accidents:

    • Speeding on curves or ramps
    • Improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo
    • Liquid cargo “slosh” shifting center of gravity
  5. Blind Spot Collisions:

    • Right-side blind spot is largest and most dangerous
    • Failure to check mirrors before lane changes
    • Improperly adjusted mirrors
  6. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”):

    • Truck swings wide before right turn
    • Creates gap that other vehicles enter
    • Truck completes turn, crushing vehicle in gap
  7. Brake Failure Accidents:

    • Poor maintenance and improper adjustments
    • Brake fade on long descents
    • Defective brake components
  8. Driver Fatigue/Falling Asleep:

    • Hours of service violations
    • Sleep apnea and other medical conditions
    • Pressure from carrier to meet schedules
  9. Distracted Driving:

    • Cell phone use, texting, dispatch communications
    • GPS programming while driving
    • Eating, drinking, or other distractions
  10. Impaired Driving:

    • Alcohol, illegal drugs, prescription medication
    • Over-the-counter medication impairment
    • Medical conditions affecting driving ability
  11. Cargo Spill/Hazmat Incidents:

    • Improperly secured loads falling from trucks
    • Hazardous material spills creating additional dangers
    • Chemical exposure and burns
  12. Head-On Collisions:

    • Wrong-way driving on divided highways
    • Median crossover accidents
    • Driver incapacitation (medical emergency, falling asleep)
  13. Rear-End Collisions:

    • Following too closely
    • Brake failures
    • Distracted driving

New Braunfels Trucking Corridors: Where Accidents Happen

New Braunfels sits at the intersection of several major trucking corridors that create unique accident risks:

I-35 Corridor

The primary north-south freight route through Texas, I-35 handles massive truck traffic between San Antonio, Austin, and points north. The New Braunfels segment features:

  • Heavy commuter traffic mixing with truck traffic
  • Significant elevation changes that affect truck performance
  • Multiple exit and entrance ramps with merging traffic
  • Frequent congestion during peak travel times
  • Tourist traffic to and from the Hill Country

Highway 46

This major east-west route connects New Braunfels to Seguin and the I-10 corridor, serving as:

  • Primary route for local distribution center traffic
  • Connection to major manufacturing facilities
  • Alternative route for trucks avoiding I-35 congestion
  • High-traffic intersections with increased accident risk

FM 306

Serving as a key local route, FM 306:

  • Connects New Braunfels to Canyon Lake
  • Handles significant truck traffic to local businesses
  • Features sharp curves and elevation changes
  • Mixes local and through traffic

Distribution Center Zones

New Braunfels hosts several major distribution centers that generate significant truck traffic:

  • Amazon fulfillment centers
  • Retail distribution facilities
  • Manufacturing supply chain hubs
  • Loading zone accidents and cargo securement failures are common

Tourist Season Congestion

During peak tourist seasons, particularly around:

  • Comal and Guadalupe Rivers
  • Schlitterbahn Waterpark
  • Local festivals and events
  • Increased traffic combined with truck traffic creates dangerous conditions

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your New Braunfels Trucking Accident Case

  1. Local Knowledge: We know New Braunfels’s trucking corridors, courts, and juries. We’ve handled cases on every major highway in the area.

  2. Insurance Defense Advantage: Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurers evaluate, minimize, and deny claims.

  3. Federal Court Experience: Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, essential for interstate trucking cases.

  4. Multi-Million Dollar Results: We’ve secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for trucking accident victims.

  5. 25+ Years of Experience: Ralph Manginello has been fighting trucking companies since 1998.

  6. Immediate Action: We send spoliation letters within hours to preserve critical evidence.

  7. No Fee Unless We Win: You pay nothing upfront – we work on contingency.

  8. Bilingual Services: Hablamos Español. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish.

  9. Proven Track Record: 251+ Google reviews with a 4.9-star average rating.

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

What Your New Braunfels Trucking Accident Case Is Worth

Case values depend on many factors, but trucking companies carry much higher insurance than typical drivers:

  • Federal Minimum Insurance: $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
  • Typical Carrier Coverage: $1-5 million
  • Hazardous Materials: $5 million minimum

Factors That Determine Case Value

  1. Severity of Injuries: Catastrophic injuries result in higher compensation
  2. Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs
  3. Lost Income: Wages lost due to injury and recovery
  4. Lost Earning Capacity: Reduction in future earning ability
  5. Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress
  6. Degree of Negligence: Gross negligence may support punitive damages
  7. Insurance Coverage Available: Higher limits allow for larger recoveries
  8. Evidence Strength: Clear liability and strong documentation increase value

Documented Settlement Ranges

Injury Type Settlement Range
Soft Tissue (Whiplash) $15,000 – $60,000
Herniated Disc (Non-Surgical) $50,000 – $200,000
Herniated Disc (With Surgery) $346,000 – $1,205,000
Traumatic Brain Injury (Mod-Severe) $1,548,000 – $9,838,000+
Spinal Cord Injury $4,770,000 – $25,880,000+
Amputation $1,945,000 – $8,630,000
Wrongful Death $1,910,000 – $9,520,000+

“$5+ Million – Logging Brain Injury Settlement”
“$3.8+ Million – Car Accident Amputation Settlement”
“$2+ Million – Maritime Back Injury Settlement”
“$2.5M – Truck Crash Recovery”
“Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases”

New Braunfels Trucking Accident FAQ

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in New Braunfels?

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in New Braunfels, take these steps immediately if you’re able:

  • Call 911 and report the accident
  • Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
  • Document the scene with photos and video if possible
  • Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
  • Collect witness contact information
  • Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
  • Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately

Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident 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. New Braunfels hospitals and trauma centers can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

What information should I collect at the truck accident scene in New Braunfels?

Document everything possible:

  • Truck and trailer license plates
  • DOT number (on truck door)
  • Trucking company name and logo
  • Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
  • Photos of all vehicle damage
  • Photos of the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks
  • Photos of your injuries
  • Witness names and phone numbers
  • Responding officer’s name and badge number
  • 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 in New Braunfels?

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.

What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?

A spoliation letter is a legal notice demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. This includes ECM/black box data, ELD logs, maintenance records, driver files, and more. Sending this letter immediately puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in New Braunfels?

Multiple parties may be liable in trucking accidents:

  • The truck driver
  • The trucking company/motor carrier
  • The cargo owner or shipper
  • The company that loaded the cargo
  • Truck or parts manufacturers
  • Maintenance companies
  • Freight brokers
  • The truck owner (if different from carrier)
  • Government entities (for road defects)

We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

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 (hiring unqualified drivers)
  • Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
  • Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
  • Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)

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 an owner-operator and does that affect my case?

An owner-operator is a driver who owns their own truck and contracts with trucking companies. This can complicate liability, but both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.

How do I find out if the trucking company has a bad safety record?

FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain the carrier’s:

  • CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
  • Inspection history and out-of-service rates
  • Crash history
  • Safety rating

A poor safety record can prove the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on the road.

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 but for trucks. This data can show:

  • Speed before and during the crash
  • Brake application timing
  • Engine RPM and throttle position
  • Whether cruise control was engaged
  • GPS location

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
  • Insurance policies
  • 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
  • Enter default judgment in extreme cases
  • Award punitive damages

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. Drivers who violate these rules are too tired to react safely.

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find:

  • Hours of service violations (driving too long)
  • False log entries (lying about driving time)
  • Brake system deficiencies
  • Cargo securement failures
  • Drug and alcohol violations
  • Unqualified drivers (no valid CDL or medical certificate)
  • 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
  • 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 long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in New Braunfels?

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.

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 if multiple insurance policies apply to my accident?

Trucking cases often involve multiple policies:

  • Motor carrier’s liability policy
  • Trailer interchange coverage
  • Cargo insurance
  • Owner-operator’s policy
  • Excess/umbrella coverage

We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.

Will the trucking company’s insurance try to settle quickly?

Often yes – and that’s a red flag. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in New Braunfels?

Due to the massive size and weight disparity, trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries:

  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
  • Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
  • Amputations
  • Severe burns
  • Internal organ damage
  • Multiple fractures
  • Wrongful death

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in New Braunfels?

Case values depend on many factors:

  • Severity of injuries
  • Medical expenses (past and future)
  • Lost income and earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Degree of defendant’s negligence
  • Insurance coverage available

Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents. We’ve seen verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions.

What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in New Braunfels?

Texas allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover:

  • Lost future income
  • Loss of companionship and guidance
  • Mental anguish
  • Funeral expenses
  • Punitive damages if gross negligence

Time limits apply – contact us immediately to protect your rights.

New Braunfels Trucking Accident Case Results

While every case is unique, these documented results demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable:

  • $730 Million – Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (Texas, 2021) – Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman
  • $150 Million – Werner Settlement (Texas, 2022) – Two children killed on I-30; largest 18-wheeler settlement in US history
  • $462 Million – St. Louis Underride (Missouri, 2024) – Two men decapitated in underride crash
  • $160 Million – Street v. Daimler (Alabama, 2024) – Rollover left driver quadriplegic
  • $141.5 Million – Florida Defunct Carrier Case (2023)
  • $90 Million – Houston Truck Driver Burn Case
  • $37.5 Million – Texas Trucking Verdict

“At Attorney911, we’ve recovered $50+ million for Texas families devastated by trucking accidents. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of the largest trucking companies in America.”

New Braunfels Trucking Accident Resources

Local Hospitals and Trauma Centers

  • Resolute Health Hospital – 555 Creekside Crossing, New Braunfels, TX 78130
  • CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – New Braunfels – 600 N Union Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130
  • Ascension Seton Hays – 6001 Kyle Pkwy, Kyle, TX 78640 (Level IV Trauma Center)
  • University Hospital – 4502 Medical Dr, San Antonio, TX 78229 (Level I Trauma Center)
  • Brooke Army Medical Center – 3551 Roger Brooke Dr, Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234 (Level I Trauma Center)

Local Courts Serving New Braunfels

  • Guadalupe County Justice of the Peace Precinct 1 – 1101 Elbel Rd, Schertz, TX 78154
  • Guadalupe County Justice of the Peace Precinct 2 – 211 W Court St, Seguin, TX 78155
  • Guadalupe County Justice of the Peace Precinct 3 – 1101 Elbel Rd, Schertz, TX 78154
  • Guadalupe County Justice of the Peace Precinct 4 – 1101 Elbel Rd, Schertz, TX 78154
  • Guadalupe County Court at Law – 101 E Court St, Seguin, TX 78155
  • 274th District Court – 101 E Court St, Seguin, TX 78155
  • 433rd District Court – 101 E Court St, Seguin, TX 78155
  • Comal County Justice of the Peace Precinct 1 – 3000 I-35 N, New Braunfels, TX 78130
  • Comal County Justice of the Peace Precinct 2 – 150 N Seguin Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130
  • Comal County Justice of the Peace Precinct 3 – 3000 I-35 N, New Braunfels, TX 78130
  • Comal County Justice of the Peace Precinct 4 – 3000 I-35 N, New Braunfels, TX 78130
  • Comal County Court at Law – 150 N Seguin Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130
  • 207th District Court – 150 N Seguin Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130
  • 22nd District Court – 150 N Seguin Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130
  • 36th District Court – 150 N Seguin Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130

Texas Department of Transportation Resources

  • TxDOT Crash Records Information System (CRIS): https://cris.dot.state.tx.us
  • TxDOT New Braunfels District Office: (830) 606-5858
  • TxDOT Traffic Safety Section: (512) 416-3000

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Resources

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Resources

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in New Braunfels, time is critical. Evidence disappears quickly, and trucking companies have teams working to protect their interests.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. Our New Braunfels trucking accident attorneys are available 24/7 to answer your questions and begin preserving evidence in your case.

“Every hour you wait, evidence in your New Braunfels trucking accident case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. Call Attorney911 NOW at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence.”

Why Choose Attorney911?

25+ years of experience fighting trucking companies
Former insurance defense attorney on our team
Multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements
Federal court admission to U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
Offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont serving all of Texas
24/7 availability for trucking accident emergencies
No fee unless we win your case
Hablamos Español – Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish

“Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience fighting for truck accident victims across Texas. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows every tactic the trucking company will use against you. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 to put that experience to work for your case.”

Don’t let the trucking company push you around. You deserve an attorney who will fight for what you’re truly owed. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 or visit our website at https://attorney911.com to schedule your free consultation.

“The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect them. You deserve the same level of representation. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free case evaluation.”

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