Tragedy on S. Loop 256: Elizabeth Paukstis Killed in UPS Truck Pedestrian Accident in Palestine, Texas

A Preventable Loss on Palestine’s Streets

The evening of February 17, 2026, turned tragic when 52-year-old Elizabeth Paukstis was struck and killed by a UPS truck while attempting to cross S. Loop 256 near Sycamore Street in Palestine, Texas. The accident occurred at approximately 7:53 p.m., forever changing the lives of her family, friends, and the entire community.

Elizabeth wasn’t just another statistic. She was an attorney from Washington D.C., in East Texas to assist inmates at the TDCJ Tennessee Colony Unit as part of the Wrongful Conviction Project. Her work fighting for justice made her death all the more poignant—and all the more infuriating when you consider how preventable this accident likely was.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen far too many cases like this. Pedestrian accidents involving commercial trucks are almost always the result of negligence—whether from the driver, the trucking company, or both. When an 80,000-pound vehicle collides with a person, the outcome is rarely anything but catastrophic. And when that vehicle belongs to a corporate giant like UPS, the questions about safety practices and accountability become even more urgent.

What Happened That Night: The Facts of the Case

Let’s break down exactly what we know about this incident:

• Location: S. Loop 256 near Sycamore Street, Palestine, Texas
• Time: Approximately 7:53 p.m. on February 17, 2026
• Victim: Elizabeth Paukstis, 52-year-old attorney from Washington D.C.
• Vehicle: Westbound UPS truck
• Pedestrian Movement: Paukstis was attempting to cross the loop northbound
• Traffic Signal: The UPS truck had a green light at the time of the accident
• Crosswalk Status: Paukstis was not in a crosswalk
• Clothing: Paukstis was wearing dark clothing
• Driver Response: The UPS driver stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators
• Injuries: Paukstis was taken to the hospital, where she later died
• Investigation: Police are investigating the accident

The Critical Questions That Need Answers

While the basic facts are clear, the circumstances surrounding this accident raise serious questions that demand thorough investigation:

1. Visibility Issues: With Paukstis wearing dark clothing at night and not in a crosswalk, was the UPS driver able to see her in time to react? Commercial truck drivers have significant blind spots, and pedestrians in dark clothing at night are notoriously difficult to spot.

2. Driver Training: Did the UPS driver receive proper training on pedestrian awareness, particularly in urban areas like Palestine where pedestrian traffic may be more common?

3. Vehicle Equipment: Was the UPS truck equipped with proper lighting and reflective materials to enhance visibility? Were all safety systems (like automatic emergency braking) functioning properly?

4. UPS Safety Culture: What is UPS’s track record on pedestrian safety? Do they have a history of similar incidents that might indicate systemic safety failures?

5. Intersection Safety: Is this intersection known to be dangerous for pedestrians? Are there adequate crosswalks, lighting, and signage to protect pedestrians?

6. Driver Fatigue: Was the UPS driver in compliance with federal hours-of-service regulations? Fatigue is a leading cause of commercial vehicle accidents.

7. Distraction: Was the UPS driver distracted by a cell phone, dispatch communications, or other factors that might have delayed their reaction time?

At Attorney911, these are exactly the kinds of questions we investigate in every pedestrian-truck accident case. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for accident victims for over 25 years. He knows that behind every tragic statistic like this one, there’s a story of corporate negligence, regulatory failures, and preventable loss.

The Legal Landscape: Holding UPS Accountable

When a pedestrian is killed by a commercial truck, multiple legal theories may apply to hold the responsible parties accountable. In this case, several factors create strong potential liability against UPS:

1. Negligence Per Se: FMCSA Violations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates commercial trucking operations under Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR). Violations of these regulations can establish negligence per se—meaning the violation itself proves negligence.

Potential FMCSA Violations in This Case:

Ralph Manginello has seen firsthand how FMCSA violations can make or break a case. “In trucking accident litigation, these regulations are our roadmap to proving negligence,” he explains. “When a company like UPS fails to follow federal safety rules, they’re not just breaking the law—they’re putting lives at risk. And when those failures lead to tragedy, they must be held accountable.”

2. Negligent Hiring and Training

UPS, like all motor carriers, has a legal obligation to hire qualified drivers and provide them with proper training. This includes:

• Driver Qualification File (49 CFR § 391.51): UPS must maintain a complete file for every driver, including employment application, driving record, medical certification, and training records.
• Background Checks: UPS must verify a driver’s employment history, driving record, and criminal background.
• Training Programs: UPS must provide comprehensive training on safe driving practices, including pedestrian awareness and nighttime driving.
• Ongoing Monitoring: UPS must regularly review driver performance and address any safety concerns.

If UPS failed to properly vet this driver, provide adequate training, or monitor their performance, they could be liable for negligent hiring, training, or supervision.

3. Vicarious Liability

Under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are responsible for the negligent acts of their employees when those acts occur within the scope of employment. Since the UPS driver was on duty and performing job-related tasks at the time of the accident, UPS would typically be vicariously liable for the driver’s negligence.

4. Negligent Maintenance

Commercial trucks must be maintained in safe operating condition. This includes:

• Regular inspections (49 CFR § 396.13)
• Prompt repairs of any defects (49 CFR § 396.3)
• Proper functioning of all safety systems (brakes, lights, reflectors, etc.)

If the UPS truck involved in this accident had any maintenance issues that contributed to the crash—such as faulty brakes, inadequate lighting, or malfunctioning safety systems—UPS could be directly liable for negligent maintenance.

5. Wrongful Death

Since Elizabeth Paukstis died as a result of this accident, her surviving family members may have a wrongful death claim against UPS. Under Texas law, wrongful death claims can seek compensation for:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred before death
• Pain and suffering experienced by the decedent before death

The Bigger Picture: Pedestrian Safety and Commercial Trucks

This tragedy in Palestine is not an isolated incident. Pedestrian accidents involving commercial trucks are a growing concern nationwide, and Texas is no exception. In fact, Texas consistently ranks among the states with the highest number of pedestrian fatalities.

The Alarming Statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

• In 2022, 7,522 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in the United States
• This represents a 13% increase from 2020
• Pedestrian deaths account for 17% of all traffic fatalities
• Texas had the second-highest number of pedestrian fatalities in 2022, with 834 deaths

When commercial trucks are involved in pedestrian accidents, the outcomes are particularly devastating due to the size and weight disparity:

• A fully loaded tractor-trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds
• The average pedestrian weighs about 175 pounds
• This means the truck is over 450 times heavier than the pedestrian
• The force of impact is catastrophic, often resulting in fatal injuries

Why These Accidents Happen

Pedestrian-truck accidents typically occur due to a combination of factors:

1. Blind Spots: Commercial trucks have significant blind spots, particularly on the right side and directly in front of the cab. Pedestrians in these areas may be invisible to the driver.

2. Limited Visibility: At night, pedestrians—especially those wearing dark clothing—are extremely difficult to see. This is particularly true for truck drivers who are higher off the ground and may have limited visibility of the area immediately around their vehicle.

3. Wide Turns: Trucks need to make wide turns, which can create dangerous situations for pedestrians in crosswalks or near intersections.

4. Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to driver fatigue, which impairs reaction time and decision-making.

5. Distracted Driving: Cell phone use, dispatch communications, and other distractions can prevent drivers from noticing pedestrians.

6. Inadequate Training: Many truck drivers receive insufficient training on pedestrian awareness and urban driving.

7. Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Faulty brakes, inadequate lighting, and other maintenance issues can contribute to accidents.

8. Corporate Pressure: Trucking companies often pressure drivers to meet tight delivery schedules, which can lead to speeding and other unsafe behaviors.

The Role of Corporate Culture

At Attorney911, we’ve seen how corporate culture plays a significant role in these accidents. Companies like UPS have a responsibility to prioritize safety over profits, but all too often, we see:

• Inadequate Training: Drivers receive minimal training on pedestrian safety, particularly in urban areas.
• Pressure to Meet Schedules: Drivers are pushed to make deliveries on tight schedules, leading to speeding and other unsafe behaviors.
• Poor Maintenance Practices: Maintenance is deferred to save costs, leading to unsafe vehicles on the road.
• Lax Hiring Standards: Companies hire drivers with poor safety records to meet staffing needs.
• Insufficient Supervision: Driver performance is not adequately monitored, allowing unsafe practices to continue.

Ralph Manginello has seen this pattern repeat itself across countless cases. “The trucking industry has made tremendous strides in safety over the years,” he acknowledges, “but there’s still a long way to go. Too many companies treat safety regulations as suggestions rather than requirements. And when that happens, innocent people pay the price.”

The Human Cost: Elizabeth Paukstis’s Story

While the legal and regulatory aspects of this case are important, we must never lose sight of the human tragedy at its core. Elizabeth Paukstis was more than just a name in a police report. She was a dedicated attorney who traveled from Washington D.C. to East Texas to help inmates at the TDCJ Tennessee Colony Unit as part of the Wrongful Conviction Project.

The Wrongful Conviction Project

The Wrongful Conviction Project is a noble initiative that works to identify and rectify wrongful convictions. These cases often involve:

• Eyewitness misidentification
• False confessions
• Prosecutorial misconduct
• Inadequate legal defense
• Misapplication of forensic science
• Racial bias

Elizabeth’s work with this project demonstrates her commitment to justice and her willingness to fight for those who have been failed by the system. That she lost her life while engaged in this important work makes her death all the more tragic.

The Impact on Her Family

While the article doesn’t provide details about Elizabeth’s family, we know that wrongful death cases like this have devastating ripple effects:

• Spouses lose their life partner, companion, and emotional support
• Children lose a parent’s love, guidance, and financial support
• Parents lose a child, which is a pain no parent should ever have to endure
• Siblings lose a brother or sister, altering family dynamics forever
• Friends and colleagues lose a valued member of their community

The emotional toll is immeasurable, and the financial impact can be overwhelming. Medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of future income can create significant hardship for grieving families.

What Comes Next: The Legal Process

For Elizabeth Paukstis’s family, the legal process is just beginning. Here’s what they can expect in the coming months and years:

1. Investigation

The first step is a thorough investigation to determine exactly what happened and who is responsible. This includes:

• Police Investigation: The Palestine Police Department will conduct an initial investigation, including interviewing witnesses, examining the scene, and reviewing any available video footage.
• Accident Reconstruction: Experts may be brought in to reconstruct the accident and determine factors like vehicle speed, braking distance, and visibility conditions.
• Vehicle Inspection: The UPS truck will be inspected for any mechanical issues that may have contributed to the accident.
• Driver Records: The UPS driver’s employment records, driving history, and training records will be reviewed.
• Company Records: UPS’s safety records, training programs, and maintenance practices will be examined.

At Attorney911, we conduct our own independent investigations in cases like this. “We don’t rely solely on the police report,” explains Ralph Manginello. “We dig deeper to uncover the full story and identify all potentially liable parties.”

2. Evidence Preservation

One of the most critical steps in any trucking accident case is preserving evidence. This is particularly important because:

• Electronic Data: Modern commercial trucks are equipped with electronic control modules (ECMs) and electronic logging devices (ELDs) that record critical data about the vehicle’s operation. This data can be overwritten or deleted if not preserved quickly.
• Physical Evidence: The truck itself, along with any failed components, must be preserved for inspection.
• Witness Statements: Witness memories fade quickly, so statements must be taken as soon as possible.
• Video Footage: Surveillance cameras from nearby businesses may have captured the accident, but this footage is often overwritten within days.

We send spoliation letters immediately in cases like this to demand that all evidence be preserved. “In trucking cases, evidence disappears fast,” warns Manginello. “We act quickly to make sure nothing is lost or destroyed.”

3. Identifying All Liable Parties

In trucking accident cases, multiple parties may share responsibility. In addition to the UPS driver and UPS itself, potential defendants could include:

• The Truck Manufacturer: If a vehicle defect contributed to the accident
• Parts Manufacturers: If a faulty component (like brakes or tires) failed
• Maintenance Companies: If inadequate maintenance contributed to the accident
• Cargo Loaders: If improper loading affected the truck’s stability
• Government Entities: If poor road design or inadequate signage contributed to the accident

4. Filing the Lawsuit

Once the investigation is complete and all liable parties have been identified, a wrongful death lawsuit will be filed. In Texas, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is two years from the date of death.

The lawsuit will typically include claims for:

• Negligence
• Negligent hiring, training, or supervision
• Negligent maintenance
• Wrongful death
• Survival action (for Elizabeth’s pain and suffering before death)

5. Discovery

During the discovery phase, both sides exchange information and evidence. This includes:

• Interrogatories: Written questions that must be answered under oath
• Requests for Production: Demands for documents, photos, videos, and other evidence
• Depositions: Sworn testimony taken under oath from witnesses, experts, and parties
• Expert Reports: Reports from accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and other specialists

6. Settlement Negotiations

Most cases settle before trial. Settlement negotiations may occur at any point in the process, but they often intensify after discovery is complete and both sides have a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the case.

7. Trial

If the case doesn’t settle, it will proceed to trial. A jury will hear the evidence and determine:

• Whether the defendants were negligent
• Whether that negligence caused Elizabeth’s death
• What damages should be awarded to her family

The Potential Value of This Case

While every case is unique, and we can’t predict the exact value of Elizabeth Paukstis’s wrongful death claim, we can look at similar cases and industry trends to understand the potential range.

Factors That Affect Case Value

Several factors will influence the value of this case:

1. Liability: The clearer the evidence of UPS’s negligence, the stronger the case.
2. Damages: The economic and non-economic losses suffered by Elizabeth’s family.
3. Insurance Coverage: UPS carries significant insurance coverage for its operations.
4. Punitive Damages: If UPS’s conduct was particularly egregious, punitive damages may be available.
5. Jury Attitudes: Local jury attitudes toward corporations and personal injury claims can affect outcomes.

Recent Trucking Verdicts and Settlements

Recent trucking accident cases provide some context for what might be possible in this case:

These nuclear verdicts demonstrate that juries are increasingly willing to hold trucking companies accountable for negligence. In Texas, where this accident occurred, juries have shown a particular willingness to award significant damages in cases involving corporate negligence.

Potential Damages in This Case

Based on the facts of this case and recent verdict trends, Elizabeth Paukstis’s family might be entitled to compensation for:

1. Economic Damages:
   – Medical expenses incurred before death
   – Funeral and burial expenses
   – Lost future income and benefits Elizabeth would have earned
   – Loss of household services Elizabeth would have provided

2. Non-Economic Damages:
   – Loss of companionship and consortium for her spouse
   – Loss of parental guidance for her children
   – Mental anguish and emotional suffering for her family
   – Elizabeth’s pain and suffering before death

3. Punitive Damages:
   – If UPS’s conduct was particularly reckless or showed a pattern of safety violations, punitive damages might be available to punish the company and deter future misconduct

Ralph Manginello has seen firsthand how these cases can unfold. “When a corporation’s negligence takes a life, the damages can be substantial,” he explains. “But more importantly, these cases send a message that safety must come first. Every verdict we win helps make the roads safer for everyone.”

What This Case Means for Palestine and East Texas

While this tragedy occurred in Palestine, the lessons from this case extend far beyond this small Texas town. East Texas faces unique transportation challenges that make accidents like this all too possible:

1. The Trucking Corridors of East Texas

East Texas is crisscrossed by major trucking routes that connect the Gulf Coast to the rest of the country:

• I-20: Connects Dallas to Shreveport and beyond
• I-30: Connects Dallas to Texarkana
• US-59/I-69: Connects Houston to the Arkansas border
• US-287: Connects Fort Worth to Beaumont
• US-69: Connects Beaumont to the Oklahoma border

These corridors see heavy truck traffic, including UPS and other commercial vehicles. The mix of local traffic, pedestrians, and commercial trucks creates dangerous conditions, particularly in smaller towns like Palestine where urban areas intersect with these major routes.

2. The Unique Challenges of Small-Town Trucking

Smaller towns like Palestine face unique challenges when it comes to truck safety:

• Urban-Rural Interface: Trucks traveling between major cities must navigate small-town streets with pedestrian traffic.
• Limited Infrastructure: Smaller towns may have less sophisticated traffic control systems, fewer crosswalks, and limited lighting.
• Driver Familiarity: Truck drivers may be less familiar with local roads and pedestrian patterns.
• Enforcement Challenges: Smaller police departments may have limited resources for traffic enforcement and accident investigation.

3. The Human Impact on Local Communities

When accidents like this occur in smaller communities, the impact is often more profound:

• Personal Connections: In small towns, victims are often known personally by first responders, medical staff, and community members.
• Community Grief: The loss of a community member affects everyone, not just the immediate family.
• Economic Impact: The loss of a professional like Elizabeth Paukstis affects the local economy and community services.
• Safety Awareness: High-profile accidents can raise awareness about local safety issues and lead to positive changes.

4. The Role of Local Institutions

Elizabeth’s work with the TDCJ Tennessee Colony Unit highlights the important role that local institutions play in our communities. When someone like Elizabeth is lost, the entire community feels the impact:

• Criminal Justice System: The Wrongful Conviction Project relies on dedicated professionals like Elizabeth to function.
• Legal Community: Local attorneys often collaborate on important cases and community initiatives.
• Non-Profit Sector: Many professionals like Elizabeth volunteer their time to important causes.
• Educational Institutions: Local colleges and universities often partner with professionals on research and community projects.

How to Prevent Future Tragedies

At Attorney911, we believe that every accident is an opportunity to learn and improve. The tragedy in Palestine should serve as a wake-up call for trucking companies, local governments, and pedestrians alike.

For Trucking Companies:

1. Enhance Pedestrian Safety Training:
   – Provide comprehensive training on pedestrian awareness, particularly in urban areas
   – Teach drivers about blind spots and how to check them effectively
   – Train drivers on proper procedures for navigating intersections and crosswalks

2. Improve Vehicle Safety Systems:
   – Equip trucks with advanced safety systems like automatic emergency braking
   – Ensure all lighting and reflective materials are properly maintained
   – Install side guards to prevent underride accidents

3. Address Driver Fatigue:
   – Strictly enforce hours-of-service regulations
   – Provide adequate rest breaks and encourage drivers to take them
   – Monitor driver performance for signs of fatigue

4. Eliminate Distracted Driving:
   – Enforce strict policies against cell phone use while driving
   – Provide hands-free communication systems for dispatch
   – Train drivers on the dangers of distraction

5. Maintain Vehicles Properly:
   – Conduct regular inspections and maintenance
   – Address any issues promptly
   – Keep detailed records of all maintenance and repairs

6. Foster a Culture of Safety:
   – Prioritize safety over delivery schedules
   – Reward safe driving practices
   – Address safety concerns promptly and thoroughly

For Local Governments:

1. Improve Pedestrian Infrastructure:
   – Install more crosswalks, particularly near busy intersections
   – Enhance lighting in areas with pedestrian traffic
   – Add pedestrian signals and countdown timers

2. Implement Traffic Calming Measures:
   – Reduce speed limits in areas with pedestrian traffic
   – Install speed bumps and other traffic calming devices
   – Create pedestrian islands in the middle of wide roads

3. Enhance Enforcement:
   – Increase traffic enforcement in areas with pedestrian traffic
   – Target speeding, distracted driving, and other unsafe behaviors
   – Work with trucking companies to address safety concerns

4. Improve Road Design:
   – Ensure roads are designed with pedestrian safety in mind
   – Create dedicated pedestrian paths where possible
   – Improve visibility at intersections

5. Educate the Public:
   – Conduct public awareness campaigns about pedestrian safety
   – Teach pedestrians about the dangers of crossing outside crosswalks
   – Educate drivers about pedestrian right-of-way laws

For Pedestrians:

1. Use Crosswalks:
   – Always cross at designated crosswalks
   – Never assume a driver sees you
   – Make eye contact with drivers before crossing

2. Increase Visibility:
   – Wear light-colored or reflective clothing at night
   – Carry a flashlight when walking in the dark
   – Avoid wearing headphones that might distract you from traffic sounds

3. Be Predictable:
   – Follow traffic signals and signs
   – Don’t dart out into traffic
   – Walk on sidewalks when available

4. Stay Alert:
   – Avoid distractions like cell phones while walking
   – Be particularly careful around commercial vehicles
   – Watch for turning trucks

5. Teach Children:
   – Educate children about pedestrian safety
   – Supervise young children near roads
   – Set a good example with your own behavior

The Attorney911 Difference: How We Fight for Justice

At Attorney911, we’ve built our practice on a simple principle: when corporations put profits over safety, we fight to hold them accountable. Our approach to cases like Elizabeth Paukstis’s is shaped by decades of experience and a deep understanding of the trucking industry.

1. Immediate Action

We don’t wait to get involved in cases like this. Time is of the essence when it comes to preserving evidence and protecting our clients’ rights. Here’s what we do immediately:

• Send Spoliation Letters: We demand that all evidence be preserved, including electronic data, vehicle records, and maintenance logs.
• Conduct Independent Investigation: We don’t rely solely on the police report. We conduct our own investigation to uncover the full story.
• Preserve Critical Evidence: We take steps to ensure that evidence like surveillance footage, witness statements, and vehicle data is preserved.
• Protect Our Clients: We handle all communications with insurance companies and other parties to protect our clients from tactics designed to minimize their claims.

2. Comprehensive Investigation

Our investigations go far beyond what the police typically do. We dig deep to uncover all the factors that contributed to the accident:

• Accident Reconstruction: We work with expert accident reconstructionists to determine exactly what happened.
• Vehicle Inspection: We thoroughly inspect the truck and any failed components.
• Electronic Data Analysis: We obtain and analyze data from the truck’s electronic control module (ECM) and electronic logging device (ELD).
• Driver Background Check: We investigate the driver’s employment history, training records, and safety record.
• Company Safety Culture: We examine the trucking company’s safety policies, training programs, and maintenance practices.
• Regulatory Compliance: We review the company’s compliance with FMCSA regulations and other safety standards.

3. Identifying All Liable Parties

In trucking accident cases, multiple parties may share responsibility. We identify all potentially liable parties to maximize our clients’ recovery:

• The Driver: For negligent operation of the vehicle
• The Trucking Company: For negligent hiring, training, supervision, and maintenance
• Vehicle Manufacturers: For defective design or manufacturing
• Parts Manufacturers: For faulty components
• Maintenance Companies: For inadequate repairs
• Cargo Loaders: For improper loading
• Government Entities: For poor road design or inadequate signage

4. Building a Strong Case

We build our cases on a foundation of solid evidence and expert testimony:

• Medical Experts: To document the extent of injuries and future medical needs
• Economic Experts: To calculate lost wages and future earning capacity
• Accident Reconstructionists: To determine how the accident occurred
• Trucking Industry Experts: To evaluate the company’s safety practices
• Life Care Planners: To develop comprehensive care plans for catastrophic injuries

5. Aggressive Negotiation and Litigation

We don’t back down from insurance companies or corporate defendants. Our approach includes:

• Aggressive Negotiation: We demand full and fair compensation for our clients
• Willingness to Go to Trial: We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, which gives us leverage in negotiations
• Experience with Large Corporations: We’re not intimidated by corporate defendants like UPS
• Proven Track Record: Our history of successful verdicts and settlements speaks for itself

6. Compassionate Client Service

We understand that our clients are going through one of the most difficult times in their lives. We provide:

• Personal Attention: You’ll work directly with our attorneys, not just paralegals
• Regular Updates: We keep you informed every step of the way
• Emotional Support: We connect you with resources to help you cope with your loss
• Financial Guidance: We help you navigate medical bills, insurance claims, and other financial challenges

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Trucking Accident Case

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident, choosing the right attorney can make all the difference. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:

1. Decades of Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for accident victims since 1998. With over 25 years of experience, he’s handled countless trucking accident cases and knows exactly what it takes to win.

2. Insider Knowledge

Our team includes attorneys who previously worked in insurance defense. They know exactly how insurance companies evaluate claims and what tactics they use to minimize payouts. This insider knowledge gives us a significant advantage in negotiations and litigation.

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is crucial for trucking cases, which often involve interstate commerce and federal regulations.

4. Proven Track Record

We’ve recovered millions of dollars for our clients in trucking accident cases. Our track record includes:

• Multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injury victims
• Significant recoveries for families in wrongful death cases
• Successful verdicts against major trucking companies
• Landmark cases that have helped shape trucking safety laws

5. Comprehensive Resources

We have the resources to take on even the largest corporate defendants:

• Access to top expert witnesses
• Advanced accident reconstruction technology
• Comprehensive medical and economic analysis
• A dedicated team of attorneys, paralegals, and support staff

6. Contingency Fee Basis

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means:

• You pay nothing upfront
• We advance all costs of litigation
• You only pay if we win your case
• Our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket

7. Personalized Service

At Attorney911, you’re not just another case number. We treat our clients like family, providing:

• Direct access to your attorney
• Regular case updates
• Compassionate support throughout the process
• A commitment to fighting for the best possible outcome

8. Local Knowledge

With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we have deep knowledge of Texas roads, courts, and juries. We understand the unique challenges of trucking accidents in East Texas and throughout the state.

9. Bilingual Services

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, is fluent in Spanish. We provide direct representation to Spanish-speaking clients without the need for interpreters.

10. Commitment to Justice

We’re not just in this for the money. We’re committed to holding negligent trucking companies accountable and making the roads safer for everyone.

What to Do If You’ve Been Involved in a Trucking Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident, time is of the essence. Here’s what you should do:

1. Seek Medical Attention

Your health is the top priority. Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.

2. Report the Accident

Call the police and file an accident report. This creates an official record of what happened and can be crucial evidence in your case.

3. Document the Scene

If you’re able, take photos and videos of:

• The accident scene
• Vehicle damage
• Your injuries
• Road conditions
• Traffic signs and signals
• Any other relevant details

4. Collect Information

Get the following information from all parties involved:

• Names and contact information
• Driver’s license numbers
• Insurance information
• Vehicle information (make, model, license plate)
• Trucking company information
• Witness contact information

5. Don’t Give Statements

Do not give recorded statements to insurance companies or sign any documents without consulting an attorney first. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize claims, and anything you say can be used against you.

6. Preserve Evidence

Keep any evidence related to the accident, including:

• Medical records
• Repair estimates
• Photos and videos
• Clothing and personal items damaged in the accident
• Any communications with insurance companies

7. Contact an Attorney

The sooner you contact an experienced trucking accident attorney, the better. We can:

• Protect your rights
• Preserve critical evidence
• Handle communications with insurance companies
• Investigate the accident thoroughly
• Build a strong case for maximum compensation

The Time to Act Is Now

If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident, or if you’ve lost a loved one in a crash like the one that took Elizabeth Paukstis’s life, don’t wait to seek legal help. Evidence disappears quickly, and there are strict deadlines for filing claims.

At Attorney911, we’re ready to fight for you. We’ll investigate your case thoroughly, identify all liable parties, and demand the full compensation you deserve. And we’ll do it all on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win.

Ralph Manginello and our entire team are committed to holding negligent trucking companies accountable. We’ve seen the devastation these accidents cause, and we’re determined to make the roads safer for everyone.

Don’t let the trucking company’s insurance adjusters push you around. Don’t accept a lowball settlement that doesn’t cover your losses. And don’t try to handle this on your own.

Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re available 24/7 to take your call and start fighting for the justice you deserve.

Final Thoughts: Justice for Elizabeth Paukstis

The death of Elizabeth Paukstis is a tragedy that should never have happened. As an attorney dedicated to fighting for justice, she understood better than most how important it is to hold negligent parties accountable. Now, it’s up to her family, her colleagues, and the legal community to ensure that her death was not in vain.

At Attorney911, we’re committed to doing just that. We’ll fight to uncover the truth about what happened that night in Palestine. We’ll hold UPS accountable for any negligence that contributed to this tragedy. And we’ll demand justice for Elizabeth and her family.

But our work doesn’t stop there. Every case we handle is an opportunity to make the roads safer for everyone. By holding negligent trucking companies accountable, we send a message that safety must come first. We force companies to improve their practices. And we help prevent future tragedies.

If you’ve been affected by a trucking accident, we’re here to help. Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 to schedule your free consultation. Together, we can fight for justice and make our roads safer for everyone.

The time to act is now. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911.