18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in New Berlin, TX – Attorney911
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in New Berlin, TX, you need an experienced trucking accident attorney who understands the unique dangers of Guadalupe County’s highways and knows how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.
At Attorney911, our New Berlin 18-wheeler accident lawyers have over 25 years of experience fighting for victims of catastrophic truck crashes. We know the trucking corridors serving New Berlin—from I-10 to US-90 to FM 78—and we’ve recovered millions of dollars for families devastated by trucking accidents.
Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win.
Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in New Berlin Are So Dangerous
New Berlin sits at the crossroads of major freight routes, making it a high-risk area for trucking accidents. The combination of heavy truck traffic, rural road conditions, and high-speed highways creates a perfect storm for catastrophic crashes.
New Berlin’s Most Dangerous Trucking Corridors
- I-10 (Houston to San Antonio corridor) – One of the busiest freight routes in Texas, with heavy truck traffic day and night.
- US-90 (Seguin to San Antonio) – A major east-west route for agricultural and industrial freight.
- FM 78 (New Berlin to Seguin) – A two-lane rural highway where trucks and passenger vehicles share the road.
- FM 725 (New Berlin to La Vernia) – Another rural route with limited visibility and sharp curves.
- FM 1346 (New Berlin to Stockdale) – A narrow, winding road where truck rollovers and jackknife accidents are common.
Trucking companies push their drivers to meet tight deadlines, leading to fatigue, speeding, and reckless driving—especially on these high-risk routes.
Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in New Berlin
Trucking accidents don’t happen by accident. They’re caused by negligence, violations of federal safety regulations, and corporate greed. Our New Berlin truck accident attorneys investigate every possible cause to build the strongest case for you.
1. Driver Fatigue (Hours of Service Violations)
Truck drivers are legally limited to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty. However, many drivers falsify their logs or exceed their hours to meet delivery deadlines.
FMCSA Violations We See in New Berlin Cases:
- 49 CFR § 395.3 – Exceeding the 11-hour driving limit
- 49 CFR § 395.1 – Failing to take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
- 49 CFR § 395.8 – Falsifying electronic logging device (ELD) records
How We Prove Fatigue:
- ELD data (showing driving hours and rest breaks)
- Dispatch records (proving pressure to meet deadlines)
- Cell phone records (showing late-night communications)
- Fuel receipts (tracking movement when logs claim rest)
2. Distracted Driving (Cell Phones, Dispatch Devices, GPS)
Truck drivers are prohibited from using hand-held phones while driving under 49 CFR § 392.82, but many still do.
Common Distractions in New Berlin Truck Accidents:
- Texting while driving
- Using dispatch devices (Qualcomm, Omnitracs)
- Adjusting GPS or CB radios
- Eating or drinking behind the wheel
How We Prove Distraction:
- Cell phone records (showing calls/texts at time of crash)
- ECM/black box data (showing sudden swerving or delayed braking)
- Witness statements (describing erratic driving)
3. Improper Cargo Loading & Securement
When cargo isn’t properly secured, it can shift, spill, or even cause the truck to roll over.
FMCSA Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR § 393.100-136):
- Insufficient tiedowns (not enough straps or chains)
- Improper weight distribution (top-heavy loads)
- Overloaded trailers (exceeding weight limits)
- Unsecured hazardous materials (spills, fires, explosions)
Types of Cargo-Related Accidents in New Berlin:
- Rollover accidents (from shifting loads)
- Underride collisions (from loose cargo falling onto cars)
- Jackknife accidents (from unbalanced loads)
- Hazmat spills (chemical burns, toxic exposure)
4. Brake Failures & Poor Maintenance
Brake problems are a leading cause of truck accidents, accounting for 29% of all large truck crashes (NHTSA).
FMCSA Brake Violations (49 CFR § 393.40-55):
- Worn brake pads/shoes (not replaced)
- Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
- Air brake system leaks (loss of pressure)
- Brake fade (overheating on long descents)
How We Prove Brake Failures:
- Maintenance records (showing deferred repairs)
- Post-crash inspections (revealing worn components)
- ECM data (showing brake application timing)
5. Tire Blowouts (Underinflation, Overloading, Defects)
Tire blowouts cause over 11,000 truck crashes per year (NHTSA), often leading to rollovers, jackknifes, and multi-vehicle pileups.
FMCSA Tire Violations (49 CFR § 393.75):
- Underinflated tires (leading to overheating)
- Worn tread (below 4/32″ on steer tires, 2/32″ on others)
- Mismatched dual tires (different sizes/pressures)
- Manufacturing defects (separation, weak sidewalls)
How We Prove Tire Failures:
- Failed tire analysis (examining tread depth, pressure logs)
- Maintenance records (showing inspection history)
- Weight tickets (proving overloading)
6. Speeding & Reckless Driving
Trucks take 40% longer to stop than passenger vehicles. When truck drivers speed, tailgate, or make unsafe lane changes, they put everyone on the road at risk.
Speed-Related Violations in New Berlin Accidents:
- 49 CFR § 392.6 – Driving too fast for conditions
- 49 CFR § 392.11 – Following too closely
- Texas Transportation Code § 545.351 – Exceeding posted speed limits
How We Prove Speeding:
- ECM data (showing speed at time of impact)
- Skid mark analysis (calculating speed from braking distance)
- Dashcam footage (if available)
7. Underride Accidents (Deadly Collisions with Trailers)
Underride accidents occur when a car slides under a trailer, often resulting in decapitation or catastrophic head injuries.
Why Underride Accidents Happen in New Berlin:
- Missing or inadequate rear underride guards (violating 49 CFR § 393.86)
- Poor lighting or reflectors (making trailers hard to see at night)
- Sudden stops by trucks (without warning)
How We Fight Underride Cases:
- Inspecting the underride guard (for compliance with federal standards)
- Analyzing the crash dynamics (to prove the guard failed)
- Pursuing claims against the trucking company, trailer manufacturer, and maintenance provider
Catastrophic Injuries from New Berlin 18-Wheeler Accidents
Because of the massive size and weight of 18-wheelers, accidents often result in life-altering injuries—or death.
Common Injuries in New Berlin Truck Accidents
| Injury Type | Description | Lifetime Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) | Severe head trauma from impact | $85,000 – $3,000,000+ |
| Spinal Cord Injury (Paralysis) | Damage to the spine causing quadriplegia or paraplegia | $1,100,000 – $5,000,000+ |
| Amputation | Loss of limbs from crushing injuries | $500,000 – $2,000,000+ |
| Severe Burns | From fuel fires, chemical spills, or electrical fires | $1,000,000+ (multiple surgeries) |
| Internal Organ Damage | Ruptured spleen, liver lacerations, collapsed lungs | $250,000 – $1,500,000 |
| Multiple Fractures | Broken bones, crushed limbs | $100,000 – $500,000 |
| Wrongful Death | Fatalities from high-impact collisions | $1,000,000 – $10,000,000+ |
If you or a loved one has suffered any of these injuries in a New Berlin truck accident, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll fight to get you the maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a New Berlin Truck Accident?
Unlike car accidents, multiple parties can be responsible for a trucking accident. Our New Berlin 18-wheeler accident lawyers investigate every possible defendant to maximize your compensation.
Potentially Liable Parties in a Trucking Accident
| Party | How They May Be Liable |
|---|---|
| Truck Driver | Speeding, fatigue, distraction, impairment |
| Trucking Company | Negligent hiring, poor training, HOS violations, maintenance failures |
| Cargo Owner/Shipper | Overloading, improper packing, hazmat violations |
| Loading Company | Improper securement, unbalanced loads |
| Truck Manufacturer | Defective brakes, tires, or steering systems |
| Parts Manufacturer | Faulty brake pads, tires, or coupling devices |
| Maintenance Company | Negligent repairs, missed inspections |
| Freight Broker | Hiring unsafe carriers with poor safety records |
| Government Entity | Poor road design, missing signs, inadequate lighting |
Example: If a tire blowout caused your accident, we may pursue claims against:
- The trucking company (for failing to inspect the tires)
- The tire manufacturer (for a defective product)
- The maintenance shop (for improper installation)
How Our New Berlin Truck Accident Lawyers Prove Negligence
To win your case, we must prove that the trucking company or driver violated federal regulations and that this violation caused your injuries. Our New Berlin 18-wheeler accident attorneys use cutting-edge technology and expert witnesses to build an airtight case.
Critical Evidence We Obtain for Your Case
1. Electronic Data (Black Box, ELD, GPS)
- ECM/Black Box Data – Records speed, braking, throttle position, and fault codes in the moments before the crash.
- ELD (Electronic Logging Device) Records – Proves hours of service violations and fatigue.
- GPS/Telematics Data – Shows the truck’s route, speed, and stops.
⚠️ WARNING: This data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve it.
2. Driver Records (Proving Negligent Hiring & Training)
- Driver Qualification File (DQF) – Contains employment history, CDL status, medical certification, and drug test results.
- Previous Employer Records – Reveals past accidents, violations, or terminations.
- Training Records – Shows whether the driver received proper safety training.
Example: If a trucking company hired a driver with multiple DUIs, we can sue for negligent hiring.
3. Maintenance & Inspection Records
- Pre-Trip & Post-Trip Inspection Reports – Shows whether the driver ignored known defects.
- Annual Inspection Records – Proves whether the truck was properly maintained.
- Repair Orders & Work Orders – Reveals deferred maintenance that led to the crash.
Example: If a truck’s brakes failed because the company ignored maintenance requests, we can sue for negligent maintenance.
4. Cargo & Loading Records
- Bill of Lading – Details what was being transported, weight, and securement methods.
- Loading Inspection Reports – Shows whether the cargo was properly secured.
- Weight Tickets – Proves whether the truck was overloaded.
Example: If a load shifted because it wasn’t properly secured, we can sue the loading company.
5. Cell Phone & Dispatch Records
- Cell Phone Records – Proves distracted driving (texting, calls, GPS use).
- Dispatch Communications – Shows whether the company pressured the driver to violate HOS rules.
Example: If the driver was texting at the time of the crash, we can prove negligence.
6. Witness Statements & Police Reports
- Eyewitness Accounts – Helps establish fault and negligence.
- Police Crash Report – Provides officer’s assessment of fault, citations issued, and road conditions.
7. Video Evidence (Dashcams, Traffic Cameras, Security Footage)
- Truck Dashcam Footage – Shows the driver’s actions before the crash.
- Traffic/Surveillance Cameras – Captures the accident as it happened.
- Toll Booth/Weigh Station Footage – Confirms the truck’s speed and weight.
What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in New Berlin
If you’ve been in a trucking accident in New Berlin, TX, what you do in the first 48 hours can make or break your case.
Step 1: Call 911 & Seek Medical Attention
- Even if you feel fine, get checked out. Many injuries (like TBI or internal bleeding) don’t show symptoms immediately.
- Request a police report. Texas law requires a report if there are injuries, deaths, or vehicles that can’t be driven.
Step 2: Document the Scene (If You’re Able)
- Take photos/videos of:
- The truck and your vehicle (all angles)
- Skid marks, debris, and road conditions
- Your injuries (bruises, cuts, swelling)
- Traffic signs, signals, and weather conditions
- The truck’s DOT number, license plate, and company name
- Get witness contact information.
- Do NOT admit fault or apologize.
Step 3: Get the Truck Driver’s & Company’s Information
- Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
- Trucking company name, DOT number, and insurance info
- Truck and trailer license plate numbers
Step 4: Do NOT Give a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company
- Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company—not you.
- Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim.
- Refer all calls to your attorney.
Step 5: Call a New Berlin 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer Immediately
- We’ll send a spoliation letter to preserve evidence before it’s destroyed.
- We’ll handle all communications with the trucking company and insurance.
- We’ll investigate the crash and build your case while you focus on recovery.
Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.
How Much Is Your New Berlin Truck Accident Case Worth?
Every case is different, but trucking accident settlements are typically much higher than car accident claims because:
✅ Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits ($750,000+ minimum, often $1M–$5M).
✅ Multiple liable parties (driver, company, cargo loader, manufacturer).
✅ Catastrophic injuries (TBI, paralysis, wrongful death).
Factors That Determine Your Settlement Value
| Factor | How It Affects Your Case |
|---|---|
| Severity of Injuries | More severe injuries = higher compensation |
| Medical Expenses | Past, present, and future medical bills |
| Lost Wages | Income lost due to injury and recovery |
| Lost Earning Capacity | If you can’t return to your previous job |
| Pain & Suffering | Physical pain, emotional distress, PTSD |
| Permanent Disability | If you’re left with lifelong impairments |
| Degree of Negligence | Gross negligence (HOS violations, falsified logs) can lead to punitive damages |
| Insurance Coverage | Higher policy limits = larger potential recovery |
Recent Trucking Accident Verdicts & Settlements
| Case | Location | Verdict/Settlement | Key Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger | Texas | $730 Million | Oversize load killed 73-year-old woman |
| Werner Settlement | Texas | $150 Million | Two children killed on I-30 |
| Street v. Daimler | Alabama | $160 Million | Rollover left driver quadriplegic |
| St. Louis Underride Case | Missouri | $462 Million | Two men decapitated in underride crash |
| Florida I-95 Case | Florida | $1 Billion | 18-year-old killed, $900M punitive damages |
In Texas, there is no cap on pain and suffering damages in trucking accident cases. If the trucking company acted with gross negligence, you may also be entitled to punitive damages (up to 2x economic damages + $750K non-economic damages).
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your New Berlin Truck Accident Case?
1. 25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies
Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been holding trucking companies accountable since 1998. He’s secured multi-million dollar settlements against major carriers like Walmart, Coca-Cola, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS.
2. Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Our Team
Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for insurance companies—so he knows every tactic they use to minimize claims. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.
3. We Know New Berlin’s Trucking Corridors
We’re familiar with the dangerous intersections, weigh stations, and distribution centers in Guadalupe County. This local knowledge helps us build stronger cases for New Berlin residents.
4. We Send Spoliation Letters Immediately
Evidence disappears fast in trucking cases. We send preservation letters within 24-48 hours to ensure critical data (black box, ELD, dashcam footage) isn’t destroyed.
5. We Work on Contingency – You Pay Nothing Unless We Win
- No upfront fees
- No hourly charges
- We advance all case costs
- You only pay if we recover compensation for you
6. We Have the Resources to Take on Big Trucking Companies
- Accident reconstruction experts
- Trucking industry specialists
- Medical experts (to document your injuries)
- Vocational experts (to calculate lost earning capacity)
- Economic experts (to determine lifetime care costs)
7. We Don’t Back Down from a Fight
Insurance companies know which lawyers settle cheap and which ones go to trial. We prepare every case as if it’s going to court, which gives us leverage in settlement negotiations.
New Berlin Truck Accident FAQs
1. How long do I have to file a truck accident lawsuit in Texas?
Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. However, you should contact a lawyer immediately—evidence disappears quickly, and trucking companies start building their defense right away.
2. What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?
Even if the driver was an owner-operator, the trucking company may still be liable under vicarious liability or negligent hiring laws. We investigate all relationships to maximize your recovery.
3. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. As long as you were less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Example: If you were 20% at fault, you can recover 80% of your damages.
4. How much does it cost to hire a New Berlin truck accident lawyer?
At Attorney911, we work on contingency—you pay nothing upfront. Our fee is 33.33% if the case settles and 40% if it goes to trial. We only get paid if we win.
5. How long does a truck accident case take to resolve?
- Simple cases (clear liability, moderate injuries): 6–12 months
- Complex cases (multiple defendants, catastrophic injuries): 1–3 years
- Cases that go to trial: 2–4 years
We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while ensuring you get maximum compensation.
6. What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?
Many trucking companies carry excess insurance policies or umbrella coverage. We investigate all available insurance to ensure you can still recover compensation.
7. Can I still recover compensation if the truck driver fled the scene?
Yes. We can help you file a claim under your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. We’ll also work with law enforcement to track down the hit-and-run driver.
8. What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?
Never accept a settlement without consulting a lawyer first. Quick settlements are almost always lowball offers designed to pay you far less than your case is worth.
New Berlin Truck Accident Statistics
- 1 in 8 fatal crashes in Texas involves a large truck (TxDOT).
- 5,100+ people are killed in truck crashes nationwide each year (NHTSA).
- 76% of truck crash fatalities are occupants of the smaller vehicle (FMCSA).
- I-10 is one of the deadliest highways in Texas for truck accidents.
- Guadalupe County has seen a 15% increase in truck-related crashes in the past 5 years.
If you’ve been injured in a New Berlin truck accident, don’t become another statistic. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.
New Berlin Truck Accident Resources
Emergency & Medical Services
- Guadalupe Regional Medical Center (Seguin) – (830) 401-7000
- Resolute Health Hospital (New Braunfels) – (830) 302-2000
- Methodist Hospital (San Antonio) – (210) 575-4000
Law Enforcement & Crash Reporting
- Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office – (830) 379-1224
- Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) – (830) 372-4100
- Texas Crash Report Online – https://cris.dot.state.tx.us
Trucking Safety Resources
- FMCSA Safety & Fitness Electronic Records (SAFER) – https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov
- FMCSA Company Snapshot – https://ai.fmcsa.dot.gov
- Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) – https://www.txdot.gov
Contact Our New Berlin 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in New Berlin, TX, time is critical. Evidence disappears fast, and trucking companies start building their defense immediately.
Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll:
✅ Review your case and explain your legal options.
✅ Send a spoliation letter to preserve evidence.
✅ Handle all communications with the trucking company and insurance.
✅ Fight for maximum compensation while you focus on recovery.
Hablamos Español. Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, is fluent in Spanish and can assist you directly—no interpreter needed.
Don’t wait—call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. The trucking company has lawyers working against you. You deserve a fighter on your side.
“They treated me like family, not just another case. I received a very nice settlement after my truck accident.”
— MONGO SLADE, Attorney911 Client
“One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
— DONALD WILCOX, 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
📞 Call Now: 1-888-ATTY-911
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📍 Serving New Berlin, Seguin, San Antonio, and all of Guadalupe County