24/7 LIVE STAFF — Compassionate help, any time day or night
CALL NOW 1-888-ATTY-911
Blog | Commercial Personal Injury Law

Abilene, Taylor County, Texas Semi-Truck DUI Crash: Driver Arrested After Shearing Roof Off Trailer in Fallbrook — Attorney911 Brings 25+ Years of Multi-Million Dollar Trucking Verdicts, Former Insurance Defense Attorney Insider Advantage, FMCSA Regulation Masters (49 CFR 390-399), Black Box & ELD Data Extraction Experts, Jackknife, Rollover, Underride & All 18-Wheeler Crash Types, TBI, Spinal Cord Injury & Wrongful Death Specialists — $50+ Million Recovered, Free 24/7 Consultation, No Fee Unless We Win, 1-888-ATTY-911, Hablamos Español

February 16, 2026 33 min read
Abilene, Taylor County, Texas Semi-Truck DUI Crash: Driver Arrested After Shearing Roof Off Trailer in Fallbrook — Attorney911 Brings 25+ Years of Multi-Million Dollar Trucking Verdicts, Former Insurance Defense Attorney Insider Advantage, FMCSA Regulation Masters (49 CFR 390-399), Black Box & ELD Data Extraction Experts, Jackknife, Rollover, Underride & All 18-Wheeler Crash Types, TBI, Spinal Cord Injury & Wrongful Death Specialists — $50+ Million Recovered, Free 24/7 Consultation, No Fee Unless We Win, 1-888-ATTY-911, Hablamos Español - Attorney911

DUI Truck Crash in Fallbrook: How a Single Decision Sheared a Trailer Roof and Changed Lives Forever

The Crash That Should Never Have Happened

It was 1:23 a.m. on a quiet Monday morning in Fallbrook, California. A semi-truck traveling west on East Mission Road struck a tree and power lines with such force that it sheared the roof and sides off its own trailer. The impact was catastrophic – but the real tragedy began unfolding long before that moment.

The driver, whose identity remains protected by law enforcement, had been on the road for an unknown period. What we do know is that he failed multiple portions of the field sobriety test at the scene. During the DUI investigation, he made numerous concerning statements about his fitness to operate the commercial vehicle. These weren’t just admissions – they were red flags that should have prevented him from being behind the wheel in the first place.

The truck continued moving for nearly a mile after the initial impact, dragging debris and damaged equipment before finally stopping at the intersection of East Mission Road and North Stage Coach Lane. By the time North County Fire Protection District units cleared the scene at 2:15 a.m., the roadway was scattered with evidence of a preventable disaster.

The Anatomy of a Commercial DUI Disaster

This wasn’t just another drunk driving incident. This was a commercial vehicle weighing up to 80,000 pounds being operated under the influence on public roads. The physics alone make this case particularly alarming:

  • A fully loaded semi-truck requires 525 feet to stop from 65 mph – nearly two football fields
  • Alcohol impairment reduces reaction time by 15-25%, making those stopping distances even more dangerous
  • At highway speeds, an 80,000-pound truck carries 80 times the kinetic energy of a passenger car

When you combine these factors with alcohol impairment, the results are often catastrophic. The driver in this case not only endangered himself but every motorist sharing the road with him.

While the driver faces criminal charges for suspected DUI, the legal implications extend far beyond the criminal courtroom. This case presents multiple avenues for civil liability that could result in significant financial consequences for all parties involved.

1. The Driver’s Personal Liability
The driver will almost certainly face personal liability for any damages caused by his actions. Under California law, operating a vehicle under the influence creates a presumption of negligence. His concerning statements to officers about his fitness to drive will likely be used as evidence of his awareness of impairment.

2. The Trucking Company’s Responsibility
The trucking company that employed this driver bears significant responsibility under multiple legal doctrines:

  • Respondeat Superior: Employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment
  • Negligent Hiring: If the company failed to properly vet this driver’s background, including his driving record and substance abuse history
  • Negligent Supervision: If the company failed to monitor this driver’s compliance with FMCSA regulations
  • Negligent Retention: If the company knew or should have known about this driver’s fitness issues but continued to employ him

3. Cargo and Loading Companies
If the cargo was improperly loaded or secured, the loading company could share liability for any resulting damages. The partial detachment of the trailer suggests potential cargo securement failures.

4. Maintenance Providers
If mechanical failure contributed to the crash or the severity of damage, the maintenance company responsible for servicing this vehicle could be liable.

5. Vehicle and Parts Manufacturers
If a defect in the truck or trailer contributed to the crash or the severity of damage (such as a faulty coupling device or inadequate underride protection), the manufacturer could face product liability claims.

FMCSA Violations: The Regulatory Roadmap to Liability

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates every aspect of commercial trucking operations. This incident appears to violate multiple federal regulations that form the basis for civil liability:

1. Alcohol Prohibition (49 CFR § 392.5)

“A driver shall not—
(1) Use alcohol, as defined in § 382.107 of this subchapter, or be under the influence of alcohol, within 4 hours before going on duty or operating, or having physical control of, a commercial motor vehicle…”

The driver’s suspected DUI and failed sobriety tests directly violate this regulation. The concerning statements he made to officers about his fitness to operate the vehicle suggest he may have been aware of his impairment.

2. Driver Fitness (49 CFR § 392.3)

“No driver shall operate a commercial motor vehicle, and a motor carrier shall not require or permit a driver to operate a commercial motor vehicle, while the driver’s ability or alertness is so impaired, or so likely to become impaired, through fatigue, illness, or any other cause, as to make it unsafe for him/her to begin or continue to operate the commercial motor vehicle.”

The driver’s impairment from alcohol clearly falls under this regulation. The fact that he continued driving for nearly a mile after the initial impact suggests his ability to operate the vehicle safely was severely compromised.

3. Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR Part 391)

This incident raises serious questions about the trucking company’s compliance with driver qualification standards:

  • § 391.11: General qualifications for drivers
  • § 391.21: Driver application requirements
  • § 391.41: Physical qualifications for drivers
  • § 391.45: Driver’s record of duty status

If the driver had a history of substance abuse or DUI convictions, the trucking company may have violated these regulations by hiring or retaining him.

4. Hours of Service Regulations (49 CFR Part 395)

While we don’t have specific information about this driver’s hours of service, the early morning timing of this crash (1:23 a.m.) raises concerns about potential fatigue violations. The 11-hour driving limit and 14-hour duty window are frequently violated in the trucking industry, particularly by drivers under pressure to meet delivery deadlines.

5. Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance (49 CFR Part 396)

The fact that the trailer partially detached and sustained catastrophic damage suggests potential maintenance failures. Key regulations include:

  • § 396.3: Inspection, repair, and maintenance requirements
  • § 396.11: Driver vehicle inspection report
  • § 396.13: Driver inspection
  • § 396.17: Periodic inspection

If the coupling device failed or was improperly maintained, this would be a clear violation of federal regulations.

6. Cargo Securement (49 CFR § 393.100-136)

The catastrophic damage to the trailer’s structure raises questions about cargo securement. These regulations require that cargo be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent:

  • Leaking, spilling, blowing, or falling from the vehicle
  • Shifting that affects vehicle stability or maneuverability
  • Blocking the driver’s view or interfering with operation

The fact that the roof and sides were sheared off suggests the cargo may have shifted dramatically, potentially contributing to the severity of the crash.

The Evidence That Will Make or Break This Case

In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears quickly. The trucking company likely has a rapid-response team working to protect their interests right now. Here’s what needs to be preserved immediately:

1. Electronic Data

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Data
– Records the driver’s hours of service
– Shows duty status and driving time
– May reveal HOS violations or fatigue
– Can be overwritten in as little as 30 days

Engine Control Module (ECM) / Black Box Data
– Records speed before and during the crash
– Shows brake application timing
– Captures throttle position and RPM
– May reveal mechanical issues
– Typically overwrites within 30 days

GPS and Telematics Data
– Shows the truck’s exact route and speed
– May reveal erratic driving patterns
– Can prove location at specific times

Cell Phone Records
– Can prove distracted driving
– May show texting or calls while driving
– Can reveal communication with dispatch

2. Driver Records

Driver Qualification File
– Employment application
– Driving record and background check
– Medical certification
– Drug and alcohol test results
– Training records
– Previous accident history

Drug and Alcohol Test Results
– Pre-employment test results
– Random test results
– Post-accident test results (critical in this case)

Hours of Service Records
– Paper logs (if used)
– ELD records
– Dispatch records showing schedule pressure

3. Vehicle Records

Maintenance and Repair Records
– Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
– Annual inspection records
– Repair orders and work performed
– Parts replacement history

Cargo Documentation
– Bill of lading
– Cargo manifest
– Loading instructions
– Securement documentation

Accident Scene Evidence
– Police crash report
– Photographs of the scene
– Photographs of vehicle damage
– Witness statements
– Surveillance footage from nearby businesses

The Human Cost: Injuries That Change Lives Forever

While the driver sustained injuries of unknown severity, the potential for catastrophic harm in this type of crash is significant. When an 80,000-pound truck loses control, the results are often devastating:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

  • Caused by sudden impact or penetration
  • Can result in cognitive impairment, memory loss, personality changes
  • Lifetime care costs can exceed $3 million

Spinal Cord Injuries

  • Can result in paraplegia or quadriplegia
  • Requires extensive rehabilitation and home modifications
  • Lifetime care costs can exceed $5 million

Amputations

  • Often required when limbs are crushed or severely damaged
  • Requires prosthetics and extensive rehabilitation
  • Lifetime costs can exceed $1 million

Severe Burns

  • Common in truck crashes due to fuel tank ruptures
  • Requires multiple skin graft surgeries
  • Can result in permanent disfigurement

Internal Organ Damage

  • Liver lacerations, spleen damage, kidney injuries
  • Often requires emergency surgery
  • Can be life-threatening

Wrongful Death

  • When crashes prove fatal
  • Allows family members to recover for lost income, companionship, and emotional suffering
  • Verdicts can exceed $10 million in cases of egregious negligence

If you or a loved one was injured in this crash, here’s what to expect in the legal process:

1. Immediate Steps (First 48 Hours)

  • Preserve Evidence: Send spoliation letters to preserve all electronic and physical evidence
  • Medical Treatment: Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
  • Document Everything: Take photographs of injuries, vehicle damage, and the accident scene
  • Consult an Attorney: Contact an experienced trucking accident attorney immediately

2. Investigation Phase (First 30 Days)

  • Accident Reconstruction: Hire experts to analyze the crash dynamics
  • Evidence Collection: Obtain all records from the trucking company
  • Witness Interviews: Speak with witnesses before memories fade
  • Medical Documentation: Begin compiling medical records and bills

3. Demand and Negotiation (3-12 Months)

  • Demand Letter: Send a comprehensive demand to the insurance company
  • Negotiation: Engage in settlement discussions
  • Litigation Preparation: Prepare for trial if settlement isn’t reached

4. Litigation (1-3 Years)

  • Filing Lawsuit: File a complaint in the appropriate court
  • Discovery: Exchange information with the defense
  • Depositions: Take sworn testimony from witnesses and experts
  • Mediation: Attempt to resolve the case through mediation
  • Trial: Present the case to a jury if necessary

5. Resolution

  • Settlement: Most cases resolve through settlement
  • Verdict: If the case goes to trial, the jury will render a verdict
  • Appeal: Either side may appeal the verdict

Why This Case Could Be Worth Millions

Trucking accident cases often result in significant verdicts and settlements due to:

  1. Higher Insurance Limits: Trucking companies carry minimum $750,000 in liability coverage, often much more
  2. Multiple Defendants: Multiple parties can share liability, increasing available insurance
  3. Catastrophic Injuries: The severe injuries common in truck crashes justify higher damages
  4. Punitive Damages: When companies act with gross negligence, punitive damages may apply
  5. Nuclear Verdicts: Juries are increasingly willing to award massive verdicts against negligent trucking companies

Recent examples of significant trucking verdicts include:

  • $462 Million (2024, Missouri): Underride crash that resulted in decapitation
  • $160 Million (2024, Alabama): Rollover crash that left a driver quadriplegic
  • $141.5 Million (2023, Florida): Crash involving a defunct carrier
  • $730 Million (2021, Texas): Oversize load crash that killed a 73-year-old woman
  • $1 Billion (2021, Florida): Fatal crash with gross negligence in hiring

The Trucking Industry’s Culture of Negligence

This crash is symptomatic of broader issues in the trucking industry:

1. The Pressure to Deliver

Trucking companies often pressure drivers to meet unrealistic delivery schedules. This pressure leads to:

  • Hours of service violations
  • Speeding
  • Skipping required breaks
  • Driving while fatigued

2. Inadequate Training

Many trucking companies provide minimal training, focusing more on getting drivers on the road quickly than ensuring they’re properly prepared. This leads to:

  • Poor decision-making in emergency situations
  • Inadequate understanding of vehicle dynamics
  • Failure to properly inspect and maintain vehicles

3. Negligent Hiring Practices

Some trucking companies cut corners in their hiring process, failing to:

  • Conduct thorough background checks
  • Verify driving records
  • Check for substance abuse history
  • Ensure proper medical certification

4. Maintenance Failures

Maintenance is often deferred to save costs, leading to:

  • Brake failures
  • Tire blowouts
  • Coupling device failures
  • Lighting and visibility issues

5. Substance Abuse Problems

The trucking industry has a significant substance abuse problem. Drivers may use:

  • Alcohol (as in this case)
  • Prescription drugs
  • Illegal drugs
  • Stimulants to stay awake

What This Means for Abilene Drivers

While this crash occurred in Fallbrook, California, the same dangers exist on Abilene’s highways. Our city sits at the crossroads of major trucking corridors, including:

  • I-20: Connecting Texas to the Southeast
  • US-83/84: Major north-south routes through West Texas
  • US-277: Connecting San Angelo to Abilene

Abilene drivers face the same risks from:

  • Fatigued truck drivers pushing beyond legal limits
  • Improperly maintained commercial vehicles
  • Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Overloaded or improperly secured cargo
  • Inadequately trained drivers

The trucking industry’s culture of negligence doesn’t stop at state lines. Abilene families deserve the same protection and accountability that would be demanded in California.

How Attorney911 Can Help

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims 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.

Our Unique Advantages

1. Insurance Defense Experience
Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for a national defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for victims.

2. Immediate Evidence Preservation
We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve critical evidence before it’s destroyed. In this case, we would demand immediate preservation of:

  • ECM/Black box data
  • ELD records
  • Driver qualification file
  • Maintenance records
  • Drug and alcohol test results
  • Cell phone records
  • Dashcam footage

3. Comprehensive Investigation
We leave no stone unturned in our investigations:

  • Accident reconstruction experts
  • FMCSA regulation specialists
  • Medical experts to document injuries
  • Vocational experts to calculate lost earning capacity
  • Life care planners for catastrophic injuries

4. Aggressive Litigation
We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach creates leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready to fight for maximum compensation in court.

5. Multi-Million Dollar Results
Our track record speaks for itself:

  • $5+ Million: Logging brain injury settlement
  • $3.8+ Million: Car accident amputation settlement
  • $2.5+ Million: Truck crash recovery
  • $2+ Million: Maritime back injury settlement
  • Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

What We Would Do in This Case

If we were representing victims of this Fallbrook crash, here’s our immediate action plan:

  1. Emergency Response
    – Send spoliation letters to the trucking company and all involved parties
    – Demand immediate download of ECM and ELD data
    – Secure the physical evidence before it’s repaired or destroyed

  2. Comprehensive Investigation
    – Obtain the complete driver qualification file
    – Review hours of service records for fatigue violations
    – Analyze maintenance records for deferred repairs
    – Examine cargo securement documentation
    – Investigate the driver’s substance abuse history

  3. Expert Analysis
    – Accident reconstruction to determine crash dynamics
    – Medical experts to document injuries and future care needs
    – FMCSA experts to identify regulatory violations
    – Economic experts to calculate lost earning capacity

  4. Aggressive Litigation
    – File lawsuit against all potentially liable parties
    – Conduct thorough discovery to uncover all evidence
    – Depose the driver, safety manager, and maintenance personnel
    – Build a compelling case for trial

  5. Maximum Recovery
    – Pursue all available insurance coverage
    – Seek punitive damages for gross negligence
    – Fight for full compensation for all damages

The Time to Act Is Now

If you or a loved one was injured in this crash, time is not on your side. Critical evidence is disappearing every hour. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests.

Here’s what you need to do right now:

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked out. Many injuries don’t show symptoms immediately.
  2. Document Everything: Take photographs of your injuries, vehicle damage, and the accident scene.
  3. Don’t Talk to Insurance Adjusters: Anything you say can be used against you.
  4. Contact Attorney911 Immediately: Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

“Evidence in trucking accident cases disappears quickly. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Trucking companies hire rapid-response teams to protect their interests. You need an attorney who moves just as fast.” – Ralph Manginello

What Your Case Might Be Worth

While every case is unique, here are some recent trucking accident verdicts and settlements that demonstrate what’s possible when negligent trucking companies are held accountable:

Case Location Year Amount Key Factors
Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger Texas 2021 $730 Million Oversize load killed 73-year-old woman; $480M compensatory + $250M punitive
Werner Settlement Texas 2022 $150 Million Two children killed on I-30; largest 18-wheeler settlement in US history
Underride Crash Missouri 2024 $462 Million Two men decapitated in underride crash; manufacturer liability
Rollover Crash Alabama 2024 $160 Million Driver left quadriplegic; $75M compensatory + $75M punitive
Defunct Carrier Case Florida 2023 $141.5 Million Nuclear verdict against carrier no longer in business

Several well-established legal principles apply to this case:

1. Negligence Per Se

When a party violates a safety regulation (like FMCSA alcohol prohibitions), that violation can establish negligence as a matter of law. This doctrine makes it easier to prove liability in trucking cases.

2. Respondeat Superior

This doctrine holds employers liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. The trucking company is responsible for the driver’s actions while he was on duty.

3. Negligent Hiring

If the trucking company failed to properly vet this driver’s background, including his driving record and substance abuse history, they can be held liable for negligent hiring.

4. Negligent Supervision

If the company failed to monitor this driver’s compliance with FMCSA regulations, they can be held liable for negligent supervision.

5. Negligent Retention

If the company knew or should have known about this driver’s fitness issues but continued to employ him, they can be held liable for negligent retention.

6. Negligence Per Se for Regulatory Violations

Violations of FMCSA regulations can establish negligence as a matter of law. In this case, potential violations include:

  • Alcohol prohibition (§ 392.5)
  • Driver fitness (§ 392.3)
  • Driver qualification standards (Part 391)
  • Hours of service (Part 395)
  • Vehicle inspection and maintenance (Part 396)
  • Cargo securement (§ 393.100-136)

The Trucking Industry’s Pattern of Violations

This incident is not an isolated case. The trucking industry has a documented pattern of safety violations:

FMCSA Enforcement Data

According to FMCSA’s Safety Measurement System (SMS):

  • Hours of Service Violations: Among the most common violations, accounting for 31% of all out-of-service orders
  • Alcohol and Drug Violations: Thousands of violations annually, with alcohol violations increasing in recent years
  • Vehicle Maintenance Violations: Brake system violations are the #1 most common out-of-service violation
  • Driver Fitness Violations: Thousands of drivers operate without proper qualifications annually

Industry-Wide Problems

  1. Fatigue: The #1 cause of truck crashes, responsible for 31% of fatal accidents
  2. Distraction: Cell phone use and other distractions contribute to thousands of crashes annually
  3. Impairment: Alcohol and drug use among truck drivers is a persistent problem
  4. Maintenance Failures: Deferred maintenance leads to brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical issues
  5. Cargo Securement: Improperly secured cargo causes rollovers and spills

What the Trucking Company Will Do Next

If you were injured in this crash, you need to understand how the trucking company will respond:

  1. Rapid-Response Team Activation
    – The company will send investigators to the scene immediately
    – They’ll work to control the narrative and protect their interests

  2. Evidence Preservation (or Destruction)
    – They may download ECM and ELD data to analyze
    – They may “lose” damaging records or claim they were overwritten
    – They may repair the vehicle quickly to prevent inspection

  3. Insurance Company Engagement
    – The insurance company will assign adjusters to minimize the claim
    – They’ll contact you with lowball settlement offers
    – They’ll try to get you to give recorded statements

  4. Legal Team Activation
    – The company will hire defense attorneys
    – They’ll begin building their defense strategy
    – They’ll look for ways to shift blame to you

  5. Public Relations Campaign
    – They may issue statements about their commitment to safety
    – They may try to paint the driver as a “bad apple”
    – They’ll work to minimize the public perception of their responsibility

Why You Need an Attorney Now

The trucking company has a team of lawyers and adjusters working against you right now. Here’s why you need your own legal team:

  1. Evidence Preservation: We’ll send spoliation letters immediately to preserve critical evidence
  2. Insurance Negotiation: We know how to counter the insurance company’s tactics
  3. Medical Documentation: We’ll ensure your injuries are properly documented
  4. Case Valuation: We’ll calculate the true value of your case, not just what the insurance company offers
  5. Litigation Preparation: We’ll prepare your case for trial from day one

“Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years on the other side. 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 maximum compensation.” – Ralph Manginello

The Abilene Connection: Why This Case Matters Here

While this crash occurred in Fallbrook, California, it could just as easily have happened on Abilene’s highways. Our city faces the same trucking dangers:

  • I-20 Corridor: A major east-west route carrying thousands of trucks daily
  • US-83/84: Critical north-south routes through West Texas
  • Local Distribution: Trucks serving Abilene’s industries and businesses

Abilene drivers face the same risks from:

  • Fatigued truck drivers pushing beyond legal limits
  • Improperly maintained commercial vehicles
  • Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Overloaded or improperly secured cargo
  • Inadequately trained drivers

The legal principles that apply in California apply equally in Texas. Abilene families deserve the same protection and accountability that would be demanded in any other state.

What to Do If You Were Injured in This Crash

If you or a loved one was injured in this Fallbrook crash, follow these steps:

  1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
    – Get checked out at the nearest emergency room
    – Follow up with your primary care physician
    – Document all injuries, even if they seem minor

  2. Preserve Evidence
    – Take photographs of your injuries
    – Take photographs of vehicle damage
    – Keep all medical records and bills
    – Save any clothing or personal items damaged in the crash

  3. Don’t Talk to Insurance Adjusters
    – The trucking company’s insurance will contact you
    – They’ll try to get you to give a recorded statement
    – Anything you say can be used against you

  4. Contact Attorney911 Immediately
    – Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation
    – We’ll send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
    – We’ll begin building your case immediately

  5. Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
    – Attend all medical appointments
    – Follow all treatment recommendations
    – Keep records of all medical visits and expenses

The Attorney911 Difference

When you choose Attorney911, you’re not just getting a lawyer – you’re getting a team with:

  • 25+ Years of Experience: Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998
  • Federal Court Admission: We can handle cases that cross state lines
  • Insurance Defense Experience: Lupe Peña knows how the other side thinks
  • Multi-Million Dollar Results: We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims
  • Comprehensive Resources: We have the experts and resources to build your case
  • Contingency Fee Structure: You pay nothing unless we win your case

“With 25+ years of experience handling trucking accident cases, we know how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable. We’ve secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes.” – Ralph Manginello

Common Questions About This Case

1. Can I sue the trucking company even if the driver was arrested for DUI?

Yes. While the driver faces criminal charges, you can pursue a civil lawsuit against both the driver and the trucking company. The criminal case and civil case proceed separately.

2. What if I was partially at fault for the crash?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can recover damages as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

3. How long do I have to file a lawsuit?

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, you should contact an attorney immediately to preserve evidence.

4. What damages can I recover?

You may be entitled to:
– Medical expenses (past and future)
– Lost wages and lost earning capacity
– Pain and suffering
– Mental anguish
– Physical impairment
– Disfigurement
– Property damage
– Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

5. How much is my case worth?

Every case is unique. Factors that affect case value include:
– Severity of injuries
– Medical expenses
– Lost income
– Pain and suffering
– Degree of defendant’s negligence
– Available insurance coverage

6. Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle out of court, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach creates leverage in settlement negotiations.

7. How long will my case take?

Simple cases may resolve in 6-12 months. Complex cases can take 2-3 years or more. We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

The Time to Act Is Now

If you or a loved one was injured in this Fallbrook truck crash, don’t wait. Critical evidence is disappearing every hour. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll:

  • Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
  • Begin investigating your case immediately
  • Deal with the insurance companies so you don’t have to
  • Fight for the maximum compensation you deserve

“When disaster strikes, you need a Legal Emergency Lawyer™ who fights like your future depends on it—because it does.” – Attorney911

Our Promise to You

At Attorney911, we treat our clients like family. When you call us, you’ll get:

  • Direct Access to Your Attorney: You’ll have Ralph Manginello’s cell phone number
  • Regular Updates: We’ll keep you informed every step of the way
  • Aggressive Representation: We’ll fight for every dollar you deserve
  • No Upfront Costs: You pay nothing unless we win your case
  • Compassionate Service: We understand what you’re going through

Don’t Let Them Get Away With It

The trucking company in this case made a series of negligent decisions that led to this crash:

  • They hired a driver who was unfit to operate a commercial vehicle
  • They allowed him to drive while impaired
  • They failed to properly maintain their equipment
  • They put profits over safety

Don’t let them get away with it. Hold them accountable. Get the compensation you deserve.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. The consultation is free. The call could change your life.

“Trucking companies think they can push people around. We push back harder.” – Ralph Manginello

Final Thoughts: Justice for Fallbrook, Safety for Abilene

This crash in Fallbrook serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by negligent trucking companies. While the specific incident occurred in California, the same risks exist on Abilene’s highways every day.

At Attorney911, we’re committed to:

  1. Holding Negligent Trucking Companies Accountable: We’ll fight for justice for the victims of this crash
  2. Protecting Abilene Families: We’ll work to make our local highways safer for everyone
  3. Educating the Public: We’ll continue to share information about trucking safety and legal rights
  4. Fighting for Maximum Compensation: We’ll pursue every dollar our clients deserve

If you or a loved one was injured in this crash, don’t wait. Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re available 24/7 to help.

“For 25+ years, Attorney911 has fought for trucking accident victims across Texas. 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. When you call us, you’re getting a team that knows how to win.” – Attorney911

Additional Resources

Learn more about trucking accidents and your legal rights:

Contact Attorney911 Now

If you or a loved one was injured in this Fallbrook truck crash, call us immediately:

📞 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. The consultation is free. You pay nothing unless we win your case.

“Don’t let the trucking company’s lawyers push you around. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 and get the representation you deserve.” – Ralph Manginello

The Bottom Line

This Fallbrook truck crash was preventable. The driver’s DUI, the company’s negligence, and the industry’s culture of cutting corners all contributed to this disaster. If you were injured, you deserve compensation. You deserve justice.

At Attorney911, we have the experience, resources, and determination to fight for you. We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims. We know how to win.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911. The consultation is free. The call could be the most important one you ever make.

Share this article:

Need Legal Help?

Free consultation. No fee unless we win your case.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911

Ready to Fight for Your Rights?

Free consultation. No upfront costs. We don't get paid unless we win your case.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911