18-Wheeler & Trucking Accident Attorneys in Hinsdale County, Colorado

When 80,000 Pounds Changes Everything

The San Juan Mountains rise steep and unforgiving around Hinsdale County, where State Highway 149 winds through some of Colorado’s most challenging terrain. When an 18-wheeler loses control on these grades, there’s no margin for error. The physics are brutal: 80,000 pounds of steel and cargo against your 4,000-pound vehicle. That’s not an accident—it’s a catastrophe.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for trucking accident victims across Colorado and beyond. Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against the largest trucking companies in America. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance companies before joining our team—now he uses that insider knowledge to fight against them. That’s your advantage.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Hinsdale County, you need more than a lawyer. You need a fighter who understands federal trucking regulations, mountain driving hazards, and how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. We’re available 24/7.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in Hinsdale County Are Different

The Mountain Factor

Hinsdale County isn’t flat prairie or straight interstate. It’s the heart of the San Juan Mountains, where elevations exceed 11,000 feet and grades reach 7% or steeper. For 18-wheelers, this creates unique dangers:

• Brake fade on long descents: Continuous braking overheats brake drums, reducing effectiveness catastrophically
• Runaway truck ramps: The presence of these emergency ramps on Highway 149 proves the danger is real and recognized
• Reduced engine performance: High altitude reduces horsepower by 3% per 1,000 feet of elevation
• Weather volatility: Sudden snow, ice, and fog—even in summer months

When a trucking company sends an 80,000-pound vehicle into these conditions without proper equipment, training, or maintenance, they’re gambling with lives. When they lose that gamble, we make them pay.

The Isolation Factor

Hinsdale County is the most remote county in Colorado’s lower 48. Lake City, the county seat, sits nearly 50 miles from the nearest hospital with trauma capabilities. When an 18-wheeler accident occurs on Highway 149 or County Road 30:

• Emergency response times exceed 30 minutes
• Medical evacuation requires helicopter transport in many cases
• Evidence preservation becomes critical—there are no nearby businesses with surveillance cameras
• Witness availability is limited

This isolation makes immediate legal action even more crucial. The trucking company will have rapid-response investigators on scene within hours. You need someone fighting for you just as fast.

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents We Handle in Hinsdale County

Brake Failure & Runaway Truck Accidents

The most terrifying scenario on mountain highways: a truck’s brakes fail on a long descent, and the driver cannot stop. These accidents often result in:

• Multiple vehicle pileups at the base of grades
• Use of runaway truck ramps (when available and properly used)
• Catastrophic collisions with vehicles stopped at intersections
• Rollovers when drivers attempt emergency maneuvers

FMCSA Violations Often Present:

• 49 CFR § 396.3 – Failure to systematically inspect, repair, and maintain vehicles
• 49 CFR § 396.11 – Failure to conduct proper post-trip inspections
• 49 CFR § 393.40-55 – Brake system deficiencies

Why This Matters for Your Case:
Brake failures don’t happen randomly. They result from deferred maintenance, improper adjustments, or ignored warning signs. The trucking company’s maintenance records will reveal whether they prioritized profit over safety. We subpoena these records in every brake failure case.

Rollover Accidents

On Hinsdale County’s winding mountain roads, rollover accidents occur when:

• Drivers take curves too fast for conditions
• Cargo shifts, changing the center of gravity
• Drivers overcorrect and lose control
• Tire blowouts cause sudden directional changes

The San Juan Mountains’ sharp curves and steep grades make rollovers particularly dangerous. A truck that rolls on Highway 149 may block the only route through the area, creating secondary accidents and emergency response challenges.

FMCSA Violations Often Present:

• 49 CFR § 393.100-136 – Improper cargo securement
• 49 CFR § 392.6 – Speeding for conditions
• 49 CFR § 392.3 – Operating while fatigued

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknifes occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes. On narrow mountain highways like those in Hinsdale County, a jackknifed truck can:

• Completely block the only road through the area
• Create chain-reaction collisions as vehicles have nowhere to go
• Result in multi-vehicle pileups with catastrophic injuries

Common Causes:

• Sudden braking on wet or icy roads
• Improper brake balance between tractor and trailer
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing)
• Driver inexperience with mountain driving techniques

Underride Collisions

Among the most fatal trucking accidents, underride collisions occur when a smaller vehicle slides under the trailer. The trailer height often shears off the passenger compartment at windshield level.

Types:

• Rear underride: Vehicle strikes back of trailer, often at intersections or during sudden stops
• Side underride: Vehicle impacts side of trailer during lane changes, turns, or at intersections

FMCSA/NHTSA Requirements:

• 49 CFR § 393.86 – Rear impact guards required on trailers manufactured after January 26, 1998
• Guards must prevent underride at 30 mph impact
• NO FEDERAL REQUIREMENT for side underride guards (advocacy ongoing)

Tire Blowout Accidents

The extreme temperature variations in Hinsdale County—hot summer days followed by cold mountain nights—accelerate tire degradation. When a truck tire blows at highway speed:

• The driver may lose control entirely
• Debris (“road gators”) can strike following vehicles
• The truck may jackknife or rollover

FMCSA Requirements:

• 49 CFR § 393.75 – Tire requirements (tread depth, condition)
• Minimum tread depth: 4/32″ on steer tires, 2/32″ on other positions
• 49 CFR § 396.13 – Pre-trip inspection must include tire check

Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents

Improperly secured cargo creates multiple hazards:

• Cargo shift: Load moves during transit, destabilizing the truck and potentially causing rollover
• Cargo spill: Load falls from truck onto roadway, creating obstacles and secondary accidents
• Hazmat spill: Hazardous materials leak or spill, creating additional dangers requiring specialized response

On remote highways like those in Hinsdale County, a cargo spill can block the only route through the area for hours, creating dangerous conditions for other motorists.

Who Can Be Held Liable in an 18-Wheeler Accident

The Truck Driver

The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable for negligent conduct including:

• Speeding or reckless driving for mountain conditions
• Distracted driving (cell phone, dispatch communications)
• Fatigued driving beyond federal limits
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
• Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
• Inadequate training for mountain driving techniques

The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

This is often the most important defendant because they carry the highest insurance limits and bear ultimate responsibility for safety. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment.

Direct negligence claims include:

• Negligent hiring: Failed to check driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications for mountain routes
• Negligent training: Inadequate training on cargo securement, hours of service, or mountain driving techniques
• Negligent supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance, ELD compliance, or safety violations
• Negligent maintenance: Failed to maintain vehicle in safe condition for demanding mountain routes
• Negligent scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations to meet delivery deadlines

The Cargo Owner / Shipper

Companies that own cargo and arrange shipment may be liable for:

• Providing improper loading instructions
• Failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
• Requiring overweight loading that exceeds safe limits
• Pressuring carrier to expedite beyond safe limits for mountain conditions
• Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics

The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement violating 49 CFR 393
• Unbalanced load distribution creating rollover risk
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
• Inadequate loader training on securement requirements

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

Manufacturers may be liable for:

• Design defects in brake systems, stability control, or fuel tank placement
• Manufacturing defects in critical components
• Failure to warn of known dangers specific to mountain operation
• Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

Parts Manufacturers

Companies manufacturing specific components may be liable for:

• Defective brakes or brake components
• Defective tires causing blowouts
• Defective steering mechanisms
• Defective lighting components
• Defective coupling devices

Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers may be liable for:

• Negligent repairs that failed to address safety issues
• Failure to identify critical defects during inspections
• Improper brake adjustments for mountain operation
• Using substandard or incorrect parts
• Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Freight Brokers

Brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

• Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
• Failure to verify carrier insurance and operating authority
• Failure to check carrier CSA safety scores
• Selecting cheapest carrier despite known safety concerns

Government Entities

Federal, state, or local government may bear liability for:

• Dangerous road design on mountain highways
• Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
• Inadequate signage for known hazards like steep grades
• Failure to install or maintain safety barriers
• Improper work zone setup

FMCSA Regulations That Protect You

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes mandatory safety standards that all commercial trucking operations must follow. When trucking companies violate these regulations, they create the dangerous conditions that cause catastrophic accidents.

49 CFR Part 390 — General Applicability

These regulations establish who must comply with federal trucking standards. Any vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating over 10,001 pounds, designed to transport 16 or more passengers, or carrying hazardous materials requiring placards falls under FMCSA jurisdiction.

Why This Matters: Most 18-wheelers operating on Hinsdale County’s highways are subject to comprehensive federal oversight. When they violate these standards, they breach a legal duty owed to every motorist sharing the road.

49 CFR Part 391 — Driver Qualification Standards

Before any driver can operate a commercial motor vehicle, they must meet strict qualification requirements:

• Minimum age of 21 for interstate commerce
• Valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with appropriate endorsements
• Medical certification from FMCSA-approved examiner (maximum 24 months)
• Clean driving record or documented rehabilitation
• Successful completion of road test or equivalent training
• Three-year employment and driving history verification

Driver Qualification File Requirements:

Motor carriers must maintain comprehensive files for every driver containing:

• Employment application and verification
• Annual motor vehicle record reviews
• Medical examiner’s certificates
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training documentation
• Previous employer safety performance inquiries

Why This Matters for Your Case:

If the trucking company failed to verify the driver’s qualifications, allowed an expired medical certificate, or hired someone with a history of safety violations, they committed negligent hiring. We subpoena these files in every case—and the violations we find often prove decisive.

49 CFR Part 392 — Driving of Commercial Motor Vehicles

These regulations govern how commercial vehicles must be operated:

Ill or Fatigued Operators (§ 392.3):
No driver shall operate a commercial motor vehicle while their ability or alertness is impaired through fatigue, illness, or any other cause. Motor carriers cannot require or permit such operation.

Drugs and Other Substances (§ 392.4):
Drivers are prohibited from being on duty or operating a CMV while under the influence of any Schedule I substance, amphetamines, narcotics, or any substance rendering them incapable of safe driving.

Alcohol (§ 392.5):
Drivers cannot use alcohol within four hours before going on duty, while on duty, or be under the influence (0.04 BAC or higher) while operating a CMV.

Speeding (§ 392.6):
Motor carriers cannot schedule runs or require operation in time periods that would necessitate speeds exceeding posted limits.

Following Distance (§ 392.11):
Drivers must maintain reasonable and prudent following distance based on speed, traffic, and road conditions.

Mobile Phone Use (§ 392.82):
Hand-held mobile telephone use and texting while driving are prohibited.

49 CFR Part 393 — Parts and Accessories for Safe Operation

These regulations establish equipment standards:

Cargo Securement (§ 393.100-136):

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

Performance Criteria:
Cargo securement systems must withstand:

• Forward: 0.8 g deceleration (sudden stop)
• Rearward: 0.5 g acceleration
• Lateral: 0.5 g (side-to-side)
• Downward: At least 20% of cargo weight if not fully contained

Brake Systems (§ 393.40-55):

All CMVs must have properly functioning:

• Service brakes on all wheels
• Parking/emergency brake system
• Air brake systems meeting specific requirements
• Brake adjustment maintained within specifications

Lighting (§ 393.11-26):

Required lighting includes headlamps, tail lamps, stop lamps, clearance and side marker lamps, reflectors, and turn signal lamps.

49 CFR Part 395 — Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations

These are the most commonly violated regulations in trucking accidents—and the most important for proving driver fatigue.

Property-Carrying Drivers:

Sleeper Berth Provision (§ 395.1(g)):

Drivers using sleeper berth may split 10-hour off-duty period into at least 7 consecutive hours in sleeper berth plus at least 2 consecutive hours off-duty.

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Mandate (§ 395.8):

Since December 18, 2017, most CMV drivers must use ELDs that automatically record driving time, synchronize with vehicle engine, and cannot be altered after the fact.

Why ELD Data Is Critical Evidence:

ELDs prove exactly how long the driver was on duty, whether breaks were taken as required, speed before and during the accident, GPS location history, and any HOS violations. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this data before it’s overwritten.

49 CFR Part 396 — Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

General Maintenance Requirement (§ 396.3):

“Every motor carrier and intermodal equipment provider must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain, or cause to be systematically inspected, repaired, and maintained, all motor vehicles and intermodal equipment subject to its control.”

Driver Inspection Requirements:

Pre-Trip Inspection (§ 396.13):
Before driving, drivers must be satisfied the CMV is in safe operating condition and must review last driver vehicle inspection report if defects were noted.

Post-Trip Report (§ 396.11):
After each day’s driving, drivers must prepare written report on vehicle condition covering: service brakes, parking brake, steering mechanism, lighting devices and reflectors, tires, horn, windshield wipers, rear vision mirrors, coupling devices, wheels and rims, and emergency equipment.

Annual Inspection (§ 396.17):
Every CMV must pass comprehensive annual inspection covering 16+ systems. Inspection decal must be displayed. Records retained for 14 months.

Maintenance Record Retention (§ 396.3):
Motor carriers must maintain records for each vehicle showing identification, schedule for inspection/repair/maintenance, and record of repairs. Records retained for 1 year.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

Why Immediate Action Is Critical

In 18-wheeler accident cases, evidence disappears fast. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act quickly, critical evidence will be lost forever.

Critical Evidence Destruction Timelines:

The Spoliation Letter: Your Legal Shield

A spoliation letter is a formal legal notice sent to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence related to the accident.

Why It Matters:

• Puts defendants on legal notice of their preservation obligation
• Creates serious consequences if evidence is destroyed
• Courts can impose sanctions, adverse inferences, or even default judgment for spoliation
• The sooner sent, the more weight it carries

When We Send It: IMMEDIATELY—within 24-48 hours of being retained. We don’t wait.

What Our Spoliation Letter Demands

Electronic Data:

• Engine Control Module (ECM) / Electronic Control Unit (ECU) data
• Event Data Recorder (EDR) data
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
• GPS and telematics data
• Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
• Dispatch communications and messaging
• Cell phone records and text messages
• Qualcomm or fleet management system data

Driver Records:

• Complete Driver Qualification File
• Employment application and resume
• Background check and driving record
• Medical certification and exam records
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training records and certifications
• Previous accident and violation history
• Performance reviews and disciplinary records

Vehicle Records:

• Maintenance and repair records
• Inspection reports (pre-trip, post-trip, annual)
• Out-of-service orders and repairs
• Tire records and replacement history
• Brake inspection and adjustment records
• Parts purchase and installation records

Company Records:

• Hours of service records for 6 months prior
• Dispatch logs and trip records
• Bills of lading and cargo documentation
• Insurance policies
• Safety policies and procedures
• Training curricula
• Hiring and supervision policies

Physical Evidence:

• The truck and trailer themselves
• Failed or damaged components
• Cargo and securement devices
• Tire remnants if blowout involved

Catastrophic Injuries: The Human Cost

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

The forces in an 18-wheeler collision often cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull, resulting in traumatic brain injury. Even “mild” TBIs can have lasting effects.

Severity Levels:

Common Symptoms:

• Headaches, dizziness, nausea
• Memory loss, confusion, difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes, depression, anxiety
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
• Speech difficulties
• Personality changes

Lifetime Care Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity

At Attorney911, we’ve recovered $1.5 million to $9.8 million for TBI victims. As client Glenda Walker told us after her case, “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”

Spinal Cord Injury & Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis. The elevation changes and winding roads of Hinsdale County make ejection and rollover accidents particularly dangerous for spinal injuries.

Types of Paralysis:

Lifetime Care Costs:

• Paraplegia (low): $1.1 million+
• Paraplegia (high): $2.5 million+
• Quadriplegia (low): $3.5 million+
• Quadriplegia (high): $5 million+

These figures represent direct medical costs only—not lost wages, pain and suffering, or loss of quality of life.

Our firm has secured $4.7 million to $25.8 million for spinal cord injury victims. We understand the lifetime of care these injuries require, and we fight for every dollar needed.

Amputation

The crushing forces in 18-wheeler accidents often cause such severe damage that surgical amputation becomes necessary. In Hinsdale County’s remote location, delayed emergency response can worsen injuries that might otherwise be salvageable.

Types:

• Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the scene due to crash forces
• Surgical Amputation: Limb so severely damaged it must be surgically removed to save the patient’s life

Ongoing Medical Needs:

• Initial surgery and hospitalization
• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ per prosthetic)
• Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime (every 3-5 years typically)
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Occupational therapy for daily living skills
• Psychological counseling for body image and trauma
• Home modifications (ramps, bathroom accessibility)

Impact on Life:

• Permanent disability
• Career limitations or total disability
• Phantom limb pain
• Body image and psychological trauma
• Need for ongoing assistance with daily activities

We’ve recovered $1.9 million to $8.6 million for amputation victims. As client Kiimarii Yup shared after his case, “I lost everything… 1 year later I have gained so much in return.”

Severe Burns

Fuel tank ruptures, hazmat cargo spills, and post-collision fires cause devastating burn injuries. The remote location of Hinsdale County means fire response may be delayed, worsening outcomes.

Burn Classification:

Long-Term Consequences:

• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Multiple reconstructive surgeries
• Skin graft procedures
• Chronic pain and sensitivity
• Infection risks
• Psychological trauma and social isolation

Wrongful Death

When an 18-wheeler accident takes a loved one’s life, Colorado law allows surviving family members to pursue wrongful death claims. In Hinsdale County’s tight-knit communities, these losses ripple through entire families and social networks.

Who Can Bring a Claim (Colorado Law):

• Surviving spouse (first year after death)
• Surviving children (if no spouse, or after first year)
• Parents (if no spouse or children)
• Estate representative

Damages Available:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses before death
• Pain and suffering experienced by decedent
• Punitive damages (if gross negligence proven)

Colorado Statute of Limitations: Two years from date of death to file wrongful death lawsuit.

We’ve recovered $1.9 million to $9.5 million for families who lost loved ones in trucking accidents. We understand that no amount of money replaces your family member—but holding the responsible parties accountable can bring a measure of justice and financial security for the future.

Colorado Law: What You Need to Know

Statute of Limitations

In Colorado, you have two years from the date of your trucking accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the clock starts from the date of death, not the accident date.

Critical Warning: While two years may seem like plenty of time, waiting is dangerous. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and trucking companies are building their defense right now. We recommend contacting an attorney within days, not months.

Comparative Negligence: Colorado’s 50% Bar Rule

Colorado follows modified comparative negligence with a 50% bar. This means:

• If you are less than 50% at fault, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you are 50% or more at fault, you recover nothing

Example: If your damages are $500,000 and you are found 30% at fault, you recover $350,000 (70% of total). If you are found 50% at fault, you recover $0.

This makes thorough investigation and evidence preservation absolutely critical. The trucking company will try to shift blame to you. We fight to prove what really happened.

Damage Caps in Colorado

Colorado caps non-economic damages (pain and suffering) in personal injury cases:

• General cap: $300,000 (adjustable based on inflation)
• Can increase to $500,000 with clear and convincing evidence

Important: There is no cap on economic damages (medical bills, lost wages, future care). There is no cap on punitive damages in Colorado, though they require clear and convincing evidence of fraud, malice, or willful and wanton conduct.

Federal Trucking Regulations Apply in Colorado

While Colorado has its own laws, commercial trucking is primarily governed by federal FMCSA regulations that apply nationwide. This means:

• Hours of service limits are federal, not state
• Driver qualification standards are federal
• Vehicle maintenance requirements are federal
• Insurance minimums are federal

Our experience with federal trucking law gives us an advantage in Colorado cases. We know how to prove federal violations that establish negligence under Colorado law.

The Evidence That Wins Cases

Electronic Control Module (ECM) / “Black Box” Data

Commercial trucks record operational data continuously. This includes:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing and pressure
• Engine RPM and throttle position
• Cruise control engagement
• GPS location and route history
• Hard braking events and sudden deceleration

This objective data often contradicts driver claims. When a driver says “I wasn’t speeding” but the ECM shows 72 mph in a 55 zone, we have proof of negligence.

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Records

Since December 2017, most trucks must use ELDs that automatically record:

• Driving time vs. on-duty time vs. off-duty time
• Location at each duty status change
• Engine hours and vehicle miles
• Driver identification and authentication

ELD data proves whether drivers violated hours-of-service regulations. Fatigue causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. When we prove HOS violations, we prove negligence.

Driver Qualification Files

Federal law requires trucking companies to maintain comprehensive files on every driver. These files contain:

• Employment applications and background checks
• Driving records from all states
• Medical examiner’s certificates
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training records and certificates
• Previous employer safety verifications

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring. A driver with a history of safety violations who was hired without proper verification creates liability for the trucking company.

Maintenance and Inspection Records

Trucking companies must maintain records showing:

• Scheduled inspection and maintenance intervals
• All repairs performed and parts replaced
• Brake inspection and adjustment records
• Tire inspection and replacement history
• Out-of-service orders and corrective actions

Brake failures cause approximately 29% of truck accidents. When maintenance records show deferred repairs or ignored defects, we have proof of systemic negligence.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Hinsdale County

Immediate Steps (If You Are Able)

1. Call 911 immediately. Report all injuries and request emergency medical response. In Hinsdale County’s remote areas, emergency response may take 30+ minutes.

2. Seek medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor, get evaluated. Adrenaline masks pain, and internal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days.

3. Document everything. If you can do so safely:

   • Photograph all vehicles, damage, and the accident scene
   • Photograph road conditions, skid marks, and debris
   • Photograph your injuries
   • Get the truck’s DOT number, license plates, and company name
   • Get the driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
   • Collect witness names and phone numbers

4. Do not give statements. Do not speak with the trucking company’s insurance adjuster or give any recorded statements. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim.

5. Call an attorney immediately. The trucking company has lawyers working right now. You need someone fighting for you just as fast.

Why Hinsdale County’s Location Makes Immediate Action Critical

Hinsdale County’s remoteness creates unique challenges for accident victims:

• Limited medical facilities: The nearest Level I trauma center is hours away. Serious injuries require air medical evacuation.
• Limited law enforcement: Colorado State Patrol and Hinsdale County Sheriff’s Office have small staffs covering vast territory. Accident investigation may be delayed.
• Weather can close roads: A serious accident on Highway 149 can strand victims and witnesses for hours.
• No nearby businesses: Unlike urban accidents, there are no convenience stores or gas stations with surveillance cameras to capture footage.

This makes your own documentation—and immediate attorney involvement—even more critical.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Hinsdale County Trucking Accident Case

25+ Years of Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s admitted to federal court in the Southern District of Texas, giving him the ability to handle complex interstate trucking cases. He’s gone toe-to-toe with Fortune 500 corporations, including BP in the Texas City refinery explosion litigation that resulted in over $2.1 billion in total industry settlements.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Your Side

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. 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.

As we tell every client: “Our firm includes an attorney who used to work for insurance companies—now he fights against them. He knows their playbook.”

Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our track record speaks for itself:

• $5+ million for traumatic brain injury (falling log case)
• $3.8+ million for partial leg amputation (car accident with medical complications)
• $2.5+ million for commercial truck crash recovery
• $2+ million for maritime back injury (Jones Act)
• $10 million lawsuit currently active against University of Houston for hazing injuries

We’ve recovered over $50 million for Texas families across all practice areas.

Three Office Locations Serving Colorado and Beyond

With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve trucking accident victims throughout Texas and beyond. For Hinsdale County cases, we offer:

• Remote consultations via video conference
• Travel to Colorado for case investigation and client meetings
• Coordination with local medical providers and experts
• Federal court capability for interstate cases

24/7 Availability

Trucking accidents don’t happen on business hours. That’s why we’re available 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911. When you call, you talk to a real person who can start helping immediately.

Contingency Fee—No Fee Unless We Win

You pay nothing unless we win your case. Zero upfront costs. We advance all investigation expenses. Our standard fee is 33.33% if settled before trial, 40% if trial is necessary. You never receive a bill from us.

Hablamos Español

Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. For Spanish-speaking clients in Hinsdale County and throughout our service area: “Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.”

Client Testimonials: What Our Clients Say

We don’t just talk about results—our clients do too.

Chad Harris: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”

Donald Wilcox: “One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”

Glenda Walker: “They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”

Kiimarii Yup: “I lost everything… my car was at a total loss, and because of Attorney Manginello and my case worker Leonor, 1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.”

Ernest Cano: “Mr. Manginello and his firm are first class. Will fight tooth and nail for you.”

Angel Walle: “They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”

Frequently Asked Questions: 18-Wheeler Accidents in Hinsdale County

Immediate After-Accident Questions

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Hinsdale County?

If you’re able, call 911 immediately—emergency response may take 30+ minutes in this remote area. Seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor. Document everything: photograph all vehicles, damage, road conditions, and your injuries. Get the truck’s DOT number, company name, and driver information. Collect witness contacts. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company. Call an attorney immediately.

Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?

Absolutely. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Given Hinsdale County’s distance from major trauma centers, getting evaluated promptly is critical. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

What information should I collect at the truck accident scene?

Document the truck and trailer license plates, DOT number on the truck door, trucking company name and logo, driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info. Photograph all vehicle damage, the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks, and your injuries. Get witness names and phone numbers. Note the responding officer’s name and badge number.

Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

Never. Do not give any recorded statements. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests.

How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney?

Immediately—within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence in trucking cases disappears fast. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Trucking companies in Hinsdale County and nationwide hire rapid-response teams to protect their interests. You need someone fighting for you just as fast.

Legal Process Questions

How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Colorado?

Colorado’s statute of limitations gives you two years from the date of your trucking accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the clock starts from the date of death, not the accident date.

But waiting is dangerous. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and trucking companies are building their defense right now. We recommend contacting an attorney within days, not months.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Colorado follows modified comparative negligence with a 50% bar rule. This means:

• If you are less than 50% at fault, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you are 50% or more at fault, you recover nothing

For example, if your damages are $500,000 and you are found 30% at fault, you recover $350,000 (70% of total). If you are found 50% at fault, you recover $0.

This makes thorough investigation absolutely critical. The trucking company will try to shift blame to you. We fight to prove what really happened using ECM data, ELD records, and expert reconstruction.

How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?

Timelines vary based on complexity:

• Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
• Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
• Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery. Serious injuries require time to reach maximum medical improvement before we can accurately value your claim.

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court—and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys. We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way if necessary.

Insurance & Compensation Questions

How much insurance do trucking companies carry?

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage far exceeding typical auto policies:

Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.

What damages can I recover?

Economic Damages (calculable losses):

• Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
• Lost wages and lost earning capacity
• Property damage
• Out-of-pocket expenses
• Life care costs for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages (quality of life):

• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement
• Loss of consortium
• Physical impairment

Punitive Damages (punishment for gross negligence):
Available when the trucking company or driver acted with gross negligence, willful misconduct, or conscious indifference to safety. Colorado has no cap on punitive damages, though they require clear and convincing evidence.

Colorado’s Non-Economic Damage Cap:
Colorado caps non-economic damages at $300,000 (adjustable), which can increase to $500,000 with clear and convincing evidence. However, there is no cap on economic damages, and the cap does not apply to wrongful death cases or cases involving permanent physical impairment.

Evidence & Investigation Questions

What is a truck’s “black box” and how does it help my case?

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that continuously record operational data—similar to airplane black boxes. This data shows:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing and pressure
• Engine RPM and throttle position
• Whether cruise control was engaged
• GPS location history
• Hard braking events and sudden deceleration

This objective data often contradicts driver claims. When a driver says “I wasn’t speeding” but the ECM shows 72 mph in a 55 zone, we have proof of negligence.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices (ELD) are federally mandated devices that record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued. Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents.

How long does the trucking company keep black box and ELD data?

ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention for ELD data. This is why we send spoliation letters immediately—once we notify them of litigation, they must preserve everything.

Your Next Step: Call Attorney911 Today

The trucking company that hit you has already called their lawyers. Their insurance adjuster is already looking for ways to pay you less. Their rapid-response team is already at the scene.

What are you doing?

Every hour you wait, evidence in your Hinsdale County trucking accident case disappears. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. The trucking company is building their defense while you’re trying to heal.

At Attorney911, we don’t wait. We send spoliation letters within 24 hours of being retained. We deploy investigators to preserve evidence. We subpoena records before they can be destroyed. We’ve been doing this for 25 years, and we know every tactic the trucking companies use.

Our managing partner Ralph Manginello has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against the largest trucking companies in America. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña used to work for insurance companies—now he fights against them. That’s your advantage.

We work on contingency. You pay nothing unless we win. Zero upfront costs. We advance all investigation expenses. You never receive a bill from us.

Hablamos Español. Lupe Peña provides direct Spanish-language representation without interpreters.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Hinsdale County, Colorado, call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911). We’re available 24/7. Your consultation is free. Your future may depend on what you do next.

Don’t let the trucking company win. Fight back with Attorney911.

About Attorney911 | The Manginello Law Firm

Attorney911, also known as The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. Founded by Ralph P. Manginello, the firm has recovered over $50 million for clients across Texas and beyond.

Our Offices:

• Houston (Main): 1177 West Loop S, Suite 1600, Houston, TX 77027
• Houston (Secondary): 1635 Dunlavy Street, Houston, TX 77006
• Austin: 316 West 12th Street, Suite 311, Austin, TX 78701
• Beaumont: Available for client meetings

Contact Information:

• Toll-Free: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• Direct Houston: (713) 528-9070
• Email: ralph@atty911.com
• Website: https://attorney911.com

Available: 24/7 for trucking accident emergencies

This content is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique. Contact Attorney911 directly to discuss your specific situation.