Tragedy on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel: Holding Perdue Farms Accountable After Fatal Tractor-Trailer Accident

A Life Lost, Questions Unanswered: The Ronnie Andrews Case

The morning of February 15, 2026, began like any other for Ronnie Andrews, a 61-year-old man from Robersonville, North Carolina. By 6:40 am, he was driving a southbound tractor-trailer near the North Channel Bridge of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. What happened next would change everything.

According to Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel Police, Andrews’ vehicle went overboard on the west side of the bridge, south of Fisherman’s Island. The truck he was driving was owned by Perdue Farms, Inc. – one of America’s largest poultry producers with operations spanning multiple states, including Texas.

Crofton Diving of Portsmouth, Virginia recovered both the body and the truck. While officials have stated that weather was not a factor, the cause of this tragic accident remains undetermined.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen too many cases like this one. When a commercial vehicle goes over a bridge railing, it’s rarely just an “accident” – it’s usually the result of negligence somewhere in the chain of responsibility. Our 25+ years of experience handling trucking cases tells us this investigation needs to look at:

• Driver fatigue – Was Andrews complying with FMCSA hours-of-service regulations?
• Vehicle maintenance – Were there mechanical failures that contributed to the crash?
• Cargo securement – Was the load properly balanced and secured?
• Bridge safety – Are there adequate barriers and signage to prevent such tragedies?

For the Andrews family, this loss is immeasurable. For Perdue Farms, this tragedy demands accountability.

Why This Tragedy Matters to Abilene and Taylor County Drivers

While this incident occurred in Virginia, the same dangers exist right here on Texas highways. Abilene sits at the crossroads of major trucking corridors, with I-20 running east-west and US-83/84 connecting north-south traffic. The Permian Basin oil industry and agricultural operations mean our roads see heavy commercial traffic daily.

The factors that likely contributed to this Chesapeake Bay tragedy are present every day in West Texas:

• Fatigued drivers pushing beyond legal limits to meet delivery deadlines
• Poorly maintained vehicles operating on our highways
• Improperly secured cargo shifting during transport
• Inadequate safety measures on bridges and overpasses

When a truck goes over a bridge railing, it’s not just a tragedy – it’s a preventable failure of the trucking safety system. At Attorney911, we’ve seen these failures firsthand in cases across Texas, and we know how to hold corporations accountable.

The Perdue Farms Connection: Corporate Accountability in Trucking Accidents

Perdue Farms, Inc. is a major player in the poultry industry with operations that span multiple states. When one of their trucks is involved in a fatal accident, it raises serious questions about their safety culture and compliance with federal regulations.

Who Is Perdue Farms?

Founded in 1920, Perdue Farms has grown into one of America’s largest poultry producers. The company operates processing plants, distribution centers, and transportation networks across the country. With this scale comes significant responsibility – especially when it comes to the safety of their drivers and the communities they operate in.

Perdue’s trucking operations are subject to the same FMCSA regulations as every other commercial carrier. These regulations exist for one reason: to prevent tragedies like what happened to Ronnie Andrews.

Corporate Trucking Operations: A Web of Responsibility

When a Perdue Farms truck is involved in a fatal accident, multiple parties may share liability:

1. Perdue Farms, Inc. – The truck owner and likely employer of the driver
2. The driver – Ronnie Andrews, whose actions behind the wheel are under investigation
3. Maintenance providers – Any third-party companies responsible for vehicle upkeep
4. Cargo loaders – Those responsible for properly securing the load
5. Bridge authorities – For potential safety deficiencies in barrier design

At Attorney911, we’ve built our reputation on unraveling these complex liability webs. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has spent over 25 years holding corporations like Perdue Farms accountable when their negligence causes harm.

FMCSA Regulations: The Safety Rules Perdue Farms Must Follow

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes comprehensive regulations that govern every aspect of commercial trucking operations. These rules exist to prevent exactly the type of tragedy that befell Ronnie Andrews.

Hours of Service: Preventing Driver Fatigue

One of the most critical safety regulations is the Hours of Service (HOS) rule found in 49 CFR Part 395. These regulations limit how long commercial drivers can operate their vehicles:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Drivers may drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour On-Duty Window: Drivers cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• 30-Minute Break Requirement: Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: Drivers cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days

Why This Matters in the Andrews Case:
If Ronnie Andrews was fatigued at the time of the accident, Perdue Farms could be liable for:
– Pressuring drivers to meet unrealistic schedules
– Failing to monitor ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data
– Ignoring signs of driver fatigue
– Allowing or encouraging HOS violations

Learn more about hours of service violations in our video:
The Definitive Guide To Commercial Truck Accidents

Driver Qualification: Ensuring Competent Operators

49 CFR Part 391 establishes strict requirements for commercial drivers. Perdue Farms must maintain a Driver Qualification (DQ) File for every driver, including:

• Employment application with complete work history
• Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) from all states where licensed
• Road test certificate or equivalent
• Medical examiner’s certificate
• Annual driving record review
• Previous employer safety performance history (3 years)
• Drug and alcohol test results

Why This Matters:
If Perdue Farms failed to properly vet Ronnie Andrews or ignored red flags in his driving history, they could be liable for negligent hiring – a serious violation that courts treat harshly.

Vehicle Maintenance: Preventing Mechanical Failures

49 CFR Part 396 requires systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of all commercial vehicles. This includes:

• Pre-trip inspections: Drivers must inspect their vehicles before each trip
• Post-trip inspections: Drivers must prepare written reports of vehicle condition
• Annual inspections: Comprehensive inspections covering 16+ systems
• Maintenance records: Documentation of all repairs and maintenance

Why This Matters:
If mechanical failure contributed to this accident – brake failure, tire blowout, steering malfunction – Perdue Farms could be liable for:
– Deferred maintenance
– Inadequate inspections
– Failure to address known defects
– Using unqualified mechanics

Cargo Securement: Preventing Load Shifts

49 CFR Part 393.100-136 establishes strict cargo securement standards. Cargo must 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

Why This Matters:
If the Perdue Farms truck was carrying poultry products or other cargo, improper securement could have caused:
– Sudden weight shifts that destabilized the vehicle
– Cargo falling onto the roadway, creating hazards
– Reduced braking effectiveness due to improper weight distribution

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel: Unique Risks for Commercial Vehicles

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel presents unique challenges for commercial vehicles. This 23-mile facility includes bridges, tunnels, and man-made islands, creating a complex environment where trucking accidents can have catastrophic consequences.

Bridge Safety Concerns

When a tractor-trailer goes over a bridge railing, it raises serious questions about:

1. Barrier Design: Were the bridge barriers adequate to contain an 80,000-pound vehicle?
2. Signage and Warnings: Were there proper warnings about bridge conditions?
3. Speed Limits: Were commercial vehicles required to reduce speed on the bridge?
4. Weather Considerations: Even if weather wasn’t a factor in this incident, were there adequate protocols for adverse conditions?

Historical Safety Issues

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel has seen its share of trucking incidents:

• In 2017, a tractor-trailer caught fire in the tunnel, causing significant damage
• In 2011, a truck carrying chickens overturned, blocking traffic for hours
• Multiple incidents of trucks losing cargo on the bridge

These patterns suggest systemic issues that need to be addressed – not just by individual carriers like Perdue Farms, but by the bridge authorities themselves.

Legal Precedents: Holding Trucking Companies Accountable

At Attorney911, we’ve seen firsthand how courts hold trucking companies accountable when their negligence causes harm. Several landmark cases demonstrate the legal principles that could apply in the Ronnie Andrews case:

1. Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (2021) – $730 Million Verdict

In this Texas case, a Navy propeller being transported as an oversize load killed a 73-year-old woman. The jury awarded $480 million in compensatory damages and $250 million in punitive damages against Landstar Ranger.

Why It’s Relevant:
– Demonstrates how courts treat gross negligence in oversize load cases
– Shows the potential for massive punitive damages when companies prioritize profits over safety
– Establishes that trucking companies can be held fully accountable for catastrophic outcomes

2. Werner Enterprises Settlement (2022) – $150 Million

This Texas case involved two children killed in an I-30 crash. Werner Enterprises settled for $150 million – the largest 18-wheeler settlement in U.S. history at the time.

Why It’s Relevant:
– Shows that settlements can reach nine figures in wrongful death cases
– Demonstrates that trucking companies will pay massive sums when their negligence causes fatalities
– Establishes that families of victims can recover substantial compensation

3. Street v. Daimler (2024) – $160 Million Verdict

In this Alabama case, a rollover accident left the driver quadriplegic. The jury awarded $75 million in compensatory damages and $75 million in punitive damages.

Why It’s Relevant:
– Shows how courts handle rollover cases – a potential factor in the Andrews incident
– Demonstrates that punitive damages can equal compensatory damages in cases of gross negligence
– Establishes that truck manufacturers can share liability with carriers

4. St. Louis Underride Case (2024) – $462 Million Verdict

This Missouri case involved two men decapitated in an underride crash. The verdict included significant punitive damages against the manufacturer.

Why It’s Relevant:
– Shows how bridge-related trucking accidents are treated in court
– Demonstrates that multiple defendants can share liability
– Establishes that safety equipment failures can lead to massive verdicts

These cases demonstrate a clear trend: juries are willing to hold trucking companies fully accountable when their negligence causes catastrophic harm. The Andrews family deserves the same opportunity for justice.

The Investigation: What Needs to Happen Now

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel Police are conducting the official investigation, but families affected by trucking accidents need their own independent investigation to protect their rights. At Attorney911, this is what we would pursue in a case like this:

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation

Critical Evidence That Must Be Preserved:

Why This Matters:
Perdue Farms and their insurers have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests immediately. Families need their own team working just as fast to preserve evidence before it’s lost or destroyed.

2. Driver History Investigation

We would thoroughly investigate Ronnie Andrews’ background, including:

• Driving record: Previous accidents, violations, license suspensions
• Employment history: Previous employers, reasons for leaving
• Medical history: Any conditions that could affect driving ability
• Training records: Compliance with FMCSA training requirements
• Drug/alcohol history: Previous violations, test results

Why This Matters:
If Perdue Farms hired a driver with a history of safety violations or failed to properly vet their drivers, they could be liable for negligent hiring – a serious violation that courts treat as evidence of corporate negligence.

3. Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance Review

A comprehensive vehicle inspection would examine:

• Brake system: Condition, adjustment, recent maintenance
• Tires: Tread depth, age, inflation records, blowout history
• Steering system: Condition, recent repairs, known issues
• Suspension: Condition, load capacity, recent maintenance
• Lighting: Functionality, compliance with regulations
• Cargo securement: Methods used, equipment condition

Why This Matters:
Mechanical failures cause approximately 29% of trucking accidents. If the Perdue Farms truck had known defects or deferred maintenance, the company could be liable for negligent maintenance.

4. Hours of Service Compliance Review

We would analyze:

• ELD data: Actual driving time, rest breaks, compliance with regulations
• Dispatch records: Scheduling pressure, delivery deadlines
• Company policies: Enforcement of HOS regulations
• Previous violations: Pattern of non-compliance

Why This Matters:
Fatigue is a factor in approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. If Ronnie Andrews was driving beyond legal limits or Perdue Farms pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations, the company could be liable for negligent scheduling.

5. Bridge Safety Analysis

A thorough bridge safety review would examine:

• Barrier design: Adequacy to contain commercial vehicles
• Signage: Visibility, clarity, placement
• Speed limits: Appropriateness for commercial vehicles
• Maintenance: Condition of barriers, road surface, signage
• Previous incidents: Pattern of similar accidents

Why This Matters:
If the bridge barriers were inadequate or there were known safety deficiencies, the bridge authorities could share liability for this tragedy.

Potential Causes: What Might Have Gone Wrong

While the official investigation is ongoing, our experience with similar cases suggests several potential causes that need to be explored:

1. Driver Fatigue

Signs of Fatigue-Related Accidents:
– No skid marks (driver fell asleep)
– Consistent speed before impact (cruise control engaged)
– No evasive maneuvers
– HOS violations in ELD data
– Dispatch records showing unrealistic schedules

Why This Is Likely:
The poultry industry is known for tight delivery schedules and pressure on drivers. Perdue Farms, like many carriers, may have a history of pushing drivers beyond legal limits.

2. Mechanical Failure

Common Mechanical Failures in Bridge Accidents:
– Brake failure: Inadequate stopping power on bridge approaches
– Tire blowout: Sudden loss of control
– Steering failure: Inability to correct course
– Suspension failure: Vehicle instability on bridge surface

Why This Is Likely:
Commercial vehicles traveling long distances between processing plants and distribution centers often have deferred maintenance issues. The cost-cutting pressures in the poultry industry make this a particular concern.

3. Cargo Shift

How Cargo Issues Cause Bridge Accidents:
– Sudden weight shift causes loss of control
– Improperly secured cargo falls onto roadway
– Overloaded vehicles have reduced braking capacity
– Liquid cargo (like poultry products) can slosh, affecting stability

Why This Is Likely:
Perdue Farms trucks transport various poultry products, including refrigerated items. Improper loading or securement could have contributed to this accident.

4. Bridge Design Deficiencies

Bridge Safety Issues That Contribute to Accidents:
– Inadequate barriers for commercial vehicles
– Poor signage warning of bridge conditions
– Insufficient transition zones between road and bridge
– Lack of runaway truck ramps
– Inadequate lighting or visibility

Why This Is Likely:
The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel has seen multiple trucking incidents over the years, suggesting potential systemic safety issues that need to be addressed.

5. Distracted Driving

Distraction Factors in Commercial Driving:
– Cell phone use (texting, calls, GPS)
– Dispatch communications
– In-cab electronics
– Eating or drinking while driving
– Fatigue-related distraction

Why This Is Likely:
Distracted driving is a growing problem in the trucking industry, with FMCSA regulations specifically prohibiting hand-held phone use while driving.

The Legal Process: What the Andrews Family Can Expect

If the Andrews family chooses to pursue legal action, here’s what the process would likely look like:

1. Initial Investigation (First 30 Days)

• Evidence preservation: Sending spoliation letters to Perdue Farms and other potential defendants
• Accident reconstruction: Hiring experts to analyze the crash dynamics
• Document collection: Obtaining police reports, medical records, and initial evidence
• Liability assessment: Determining all potentially responsible parties

2. Case Development (30-90 Days)

• Expert analysis: Accident reconstruction, medical evaluation, economic projections
• Defendant identification: Determining all parties that may share liability
• Insurance coverage review: Identifying all available insurance policies
• Damages assessment: Calculating economic and non-economic losses

3. Demand and Negotiation (3-6 Months)

• Demand package: Presenting evidence and settlement demand to defendants
• Negotiation: Engaging in settlement discussions with insurance companies
• Mediation: Potential court-ordered mediation to attempt settlement

4. Litigation (6-24 Months)

• Filing lawsuit: Initiating legal action before the statute of limitations expires
• Discovery: Exchanging information with defendants through interrogatories, depositions, and document requests
• Expert reports: Presenting detailed expert analyses of liability and damages
• Motion practice: Addressing legal issues through court motions

5. Trial or Settlement (12-36 Months)

• Settlement negotiations: Continued attempts to reach fair settlement
• Trial preparation: Preparing witnesses, exhibits, and legal arguments
• Trial: Presenting the case to a jury if settlement cannot be reached
• Appeal: Potential appeals process if either side challenges the verdict

Damages: What Compensation Might Be Available

In a wrongful death case like this, the Andrews family could potentially recover several types of damages:

Economic Damages

• Lost income: The financial support Ronnie Andrews would have provided
• Lost benefits: Pension, retirement, health insurance benefits
• Funeral expenses: Costs associated with burial and memorial services
• Medical expenses: Any medical treatment before death

Non-Economic Damages

• Loss of companionship: The emotional support and relationship lost
• Mental anguish: The emotional pain and suffering of surviving family
• Loss of guidance: The advice and mentorship Ronnie Andrews would have provided
• Pain and suffering: Any suffering experienced before death

Punitive Damages

If Perdue Farms or other defendants acted with gross negligence or willful misconduct, punitive damages might be available to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct.

Recent Verdict Trends:
– Average trucking verdict: $27.5 million (2020-2023)
– Median nuclear verdict: $36 million (2022)
– Verdicts over $10 million increasing 6.4% annually (2013-2022)

Why This Case Could Be Different: The Perdue Farms Factor

Perdue Farms is not just another trucking company – it’s a major corporation with significant resources. This creates both challenges and opportunities for the Andrews family:

Challenges

• Deep pockets: Perdue Farms can afford top legal teams to defend the case
• Corporate resources: They have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests immediately
• Industry influence: As a major poultry producer, they have significant political and industry connections

Opportunities

• Solvent defendant: Perdue Farms has the financial resources to pay substantial verdicts
• Pattern of conduct: Large corporations often have systemic safety issues that can be exposed
• Public pressure: High-profile cases can create public pressure for accountability
• Industry impact: A significant verdict against Perdue Farms could drive industry-wide safety improvements

At Attorney911, we’ve handled cases against major corporations like Walmart, Amazon, and Coca-Cola. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has the experience and resources to take on corporate defendants and win.

What Abilene and Taylor County Drivers Need to Know

While this tragedy occurred in Virginia, the same risks exist right here in West Texas. Here’s what local drivers need to know:

1. The Dangers Are Real on Our Highways

Abilene sits at the crossroads of major trucking corridors:

• I-20: Connects to the Permian Basin oil fields and beyond
• US-83/84: Major north-south route for agricultural and oilfield traffic
• Highway 351: Connects to local distribution centers and processing plants

These routes see heavy commercial traffic daily, creating significant risks for passenger vehicles.

2. Common Trucking Hazards in Our Area

Local Factors That Increase Risk:

3. What to Do If You’re in a Trucking Accident

If you’re involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle in Abilene or Taylor County:

1. Call 911 immediately – Report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Document everything – Take photos of vehicles, injuries, road conditions, and license plates
3. Get witness information – Collect names and contact information from witnesses
4. Identify the trucking company – Note the company name, DOT number, and driver information
5. Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, get checked out immediately
6. Don’t give statements – Avoid talking to insurance adjusters without legal representation
7. Contact an attorney – Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate assistance

Learn more about what to do after a trucking accident:
I’ve Had an Accident — What Should I Do First?

4. How to Protect Yourself on the Road

Safety Tips for Driving Near Commercial Vehicles:

• Avoid blind spots: If you can’t see the truck’s mirrors, the driver can’t see you
• Pass quickly: Don’t linger in a truck’s blind spot when passing
• Give space: Maintain at least 4 seconds of following distance
• Watch for wide turns: Trucks need extra space to turn – don’t try to squeeze by
• Be visible: Use your headlights, especially in low visibility conditions
• Anticipate stops: Trucks need more distance to stop – don’t cut in front
• Report unsafe drivers: If you see a truck swerving or speeding, report it to authorities

The Attorney911 Difference: Why Choose Our Firm

When you’re facing a corporation like Perdue Farms after a catastrophic trucking accident, you need more than just a lawyer – you need a team with the experience, resources, and determination to win. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:

1. Ralph Manginello’s 25+ Years of Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. His experience includes:

• Multi-million dollar verdicts against major corporations
• Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• BP explosion litigation involvement against multinational corporations
• Insider knowledge of commercial trucking insurance company tactics

Ralph’s track record speaks for itself – he knows how to hold corporations accountable when their negligence causes harm.

2. Our Insurance Defense Advantage

Our team includes attorneys who previously worked in insurance defense. This gives us unique insight into how trucking companies and their insurers operate:

• We know how they evaluate claims
• We understand their negotiation tactics
• We can anticipate their defenses
• We know when they’re bluffing about settlement offers

This insider knowledge gives our clients a significant advantage in settlement negotiations and at trial.

3. Immediate Evidence Preservation

We act fast to preserve critical evidence before it’s lost or destroyed:

• Spoliation letters sent within 24-48 hours
• ECM/Black Box data secured before it’s overwritten
• ELD records preserved to prove HOS violations
• Maintenance records obtained before they’re altered
• Witness statements collected before memories fade

Our rapid-response team ensures that critical evidence is preserved to build the strongest possible case.

4. Comprehensive Investigation

We leave no stone unturned in our investigations:

• Accident reconstruction by top experts
• Vehicle inspections to identify mechanical failures
• Driver background checks to uncover negligent hiring
• Company safety record review to identify patterns of negligence
• Bridge safety analysis to determine infrastructure deficiencies

Our thorough approach ensures that all responsible parties are held accountable.

5. Trial-Ready Representation

While most cases settle, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach:

• Creates leverage in settlement negotiations
• Forces insurance companies to take our demands seriously
• Demonstrates our willingness to fight for maximum compensation
• Positions us to win at trial if settlement cannot be reached

Our trial experience and reputation make insurance companies more likely to offer fair settlements.

6. Compassionate Client Care

We understand that trucking accidents cause more than just physical injuries – they create emotional and financial hardship for families. Our approach includes:

• 24/7 availability to answer your questions
• Regular case updates so you’re never in the dark
• Compassionate support throughout the legal process
• No upfront costs – we only get paid if we win your case

The Time to Act Is Now

If you or a loved one has been affected by a trucking accident – whether it’s this Perdue Farms tragedy or any other commercial vehicle incident – time is not on your side.

Critical Deadlines You Need to Know:

• Evidence preservation: Black box data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days
• Witness memories: Fade significantly within weeks of the accident
• Statute of limitations: In Virginia, you typically have 2 years to file a lawsuit
• Insurance deadlines: Quick settlement offers often come within days

At Attorney911, we’ve seen too many families lose their right to compensation because they waited too long to take action. Don’t let that happen to you.

Call Attorney911 Today

If you’ve been affected by a trucking accident – whether it’s this Perdue Farms tragedy or any other commercial vehicle incident – we’re here to help.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free, confidential consultation.

Our team is available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you understand your rights. We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Remember:
– The trucking company has lawyers working to protect them – you deserve the same protection
– Evidence disappears quickly – we act fast to preserve critical information
– Insurance companies will try to minimize your claim – we know how to fight back
– You don’t have to face this alone – we’re here to help

Don’t wait – call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911).

Learn more about trucking accident cases:
The Victim’s Guide to 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries
Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Semi Truck?

For Spanish-speaking clients: Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.

The choice is clear: You can let Perdue Farms and their insurance company dictate what happens next, or you can fight back with Attorney911 on your side. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now – we answer 24/7.