18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Alachua County, Florida

When 80,000 Pounds Changes Everything

The impact was catastrophic. One moment you’re driving through Alachua County on your way to work, to school, to pick up your kids. The next, an 80,000-pound commercial truck has jackknifed across three lanes, or blown through a red light, or drifted into your lane because the driver hasn’t slept in 18 hours.

In Alachua County, Florida, we’re at the crossroads of major freight corridors. Interstate 75 cuts through our county carrying thousands of commercial trucks daily between Florida and the rest of the Southeast. State Road 121, US Highway 441, and the numerous distribution centers serving Gainesville and surrounding communities create constant truck traffic. When these massive vehicles cause accidents, the results are devastating—and the legal complexity requires experienced attorneys who understand both Florida law and federal trucking regulations.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for trucking accident victims. 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 firm—now he uses that insider knowledge to fight against them. When you’re facing a trucking company in Alachua County, you need that level of experience on your side.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in Alachua County Are Different

The Physics Are Brutal

Your car weighs roughly 4,000 pounds. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh 80,000 pounds. That’s not a collision—it’s a demolition. The force of impact in a truck accident is approximately 20 times greater than a typical car crash, which explains why catastrophic injuries are the norm, not the exception.

In Alachua County, our mix of interstate highways, rural two-lane roads, and urban corridors like Archer Road and Newberry Road creates dangerous conditions where these massive vehicles interact with passenger traffic. The University of Florida brings additional congestion, and the distribution centers serving North Central Florida generate constant commercial truck movement through our communities.

The Legal Complexity Is Unmatched

A car accident involves two drivers and two insurance companies. An 18-wheeler accident can involve:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company (motor carrier)
• The cargo owner or shipper
• The company that loaded the cargo
• The truck or trailer manufacturer
• Parts manufacturers (brakes, tires, etc.)
• Third-party maintenance companies
• Freight brokers who arranged the shipment
• The truck owner (if different from carrier)
• Government entities responsible for road design

Each of these parties may carry separate insurance policies. Federal law requires minimum coverage of $750,000 for general freight, $1 million for oil and equipment, and $5 million for hazardous materials. Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more. This means there’s significantly more compensation available than in a typical car accident—but accessing it requires attorneys who know how to investigate, identify all liable parties, and pursue every available policy.

The Evidence Disappears Fast

Here’s what most people don’t know: trucking companies have rapid-response teams that deploy to accident scenes within hours. Their lawyers and investigators arrive before the ambulance leaves, gathering evidence to protect the company’s interests—not yours.

Meanwhile, critical evidence that could prove your case is being erased:

At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained. These formal legal notices put the trucking company on notice that they must preserve all evidence related to the accident. Destroying evidence after receiving our letter can result in serious legal consequences—including court sanctions and adverse inference instructions that tell the jury to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable to the trucking company.

FMCSA Regulations: The Rules Trucking Companies Break

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates all commercial motor vehicles operating in interstate commerce. These regulations, codified in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR), establish the safety standards that trucking companies and drivers must follow. When they violate these rules, they create the dangerous conditions that cause catastrophic accidents.

Part 391: Driver Qualification Standards

Before a driver can legally operate a commercial truck, they must meet strict federal qualifications. Under 49 CFR § 391.11, a person cannot drive a commercial motor vehicle unless they:

• Are at least 21 years old (for interstate commerce)
• Can read and speak English sufficiently to understand highway signs, respond to official inquiries, and make entries on reports and records
• Can safely operate the vehicle and cargo type
• Are physically qualified per § 391.41
• Hold a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL)
• Have completed a driver’s road test or equivalent
• Are not disqualified under § 391.15 for violations or suspensions
• Have completed required entry-level driver training

The Driver Qualification File: Motor carriers must maintain a complete file for every driver containing their employment application, motor vehicle record from the licensing state, road test certificate or equivalent, medical examiner’s certificate, annual driving record review, previous employer inquiries for the 3-year driving history, and drug and alcohol test records.

When trucking companies fail to maintain these files, fail to verify driver qualifications, or hire drivers with poor safety records, they can be held liable for negligent hiring. We subpoena these records in every trucking case.

Part 392: Driving Rules

This section establishes how commercial vehicles must be operated. Critical violations we frequently encounter include:

Ill or Fatigued Operators (§ 392.3): “No driver shall operate a commercial motor vehicle, and a motor carrier shall not require or permit a driver to operate a commercial motor vehicle, while the driver’s ability or alertness is so impaired, or so likely to become impaired, through fatigue, illness, or any other cause, as to make it unsafe for him/her to begin or continue to operate the commercial motor vehicle.”

This regulation makes both the driver AND the trucking company liable when a fatigued driver causes an accident.

Drugs and Other Substances (§ 392.4): Drivers cannot operate while under the influence of Schedule I substances, amphetamines, narcotics, or any substance rendering them incapable of safe driving.

Alcohol (§ 392.5): Drivers cannot use alcohol within 4 hours before going on duty, use alcohol while on duty, be under the influence (.04 BAC or higher), or possess alcohol while on duty.

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

Following Too Closely (§ 392.11): Drivers must not follow other vehicles more closely than is “reasonable and prudent” given speed, traffic, and road conditions.

Mobile Phone Use (§ 392.82): Drivers are prohibited from using hand-held mobile telephones while driving, reaching for phones in ways requiring leaving the seated position, and texting while driving (§ 392.80).

Part 393: Parts and Accessories for Safe Operation

This section covers equipment standards, with particular importance for cargo securement and brake systems.

Cargo Securement (§ 393.100-136): Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent leaking, spilling, blowing, or falling; shifting that affects vehicle stability or maneuverability; and blocking the driver’s view or interfering with operation.

Performance criteria require securement systems to withstand:

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

Tiedown requirements specify that aggregate working load limits must be at least 50% of cargo weight for loose cargo, with minimum tiedowns based on cargo length.

Brakes (§ 393.40-55): All CMVs must have properly functioning brake systems including service brakes on all wheels, parking/emergency brake systems, and air brake systems meeting specific requirements. Brake adjustment must be maintained within specifications.

Lighting (§ 393.11-26): Required lighting includes headlamps, tail lamps, stop lamps, clearance and side marker lamps, reflectors and retroreflective sheeting, and turn signal lamps.

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 (Most 18-Wheelers):

Sleeper Berth Provision (§ 395.1(g)): Drivers using sleeper berth may split their 10-hour off-duty period into at least 7 consecutive hours in the sleeper berth plus at least 2 consecutive hours off-duty (in berth or otherwise). Neither period counts against the 14-hour window.

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Mandate (§ 395.8): Since December 18, 2017, most CMV drivers must use ELDs that automatically record driving time, synchronize with the vehicle engine to record objective data, cannot be altered after the fact (unlike paper logs), and record GPS location, speed, and engine hours.

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. This objective data often contradicts driver claims and has led to multi-million dollar verdicts.

Part 396: Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

This section ensures CMVs are maintained in safe operating condition.

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. They must review the last driver vehicle inspection report if defects were noted.

Post-Trip Report (§ 396.11): After each day’s driving, drivers must prepare a written report on vehicle condition covering at minimum: 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 a comprehensive annual inspection covering 16+ systems. An inspection decal must be displayed, and records must be retained for 14 months.

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

Why This Matters: Brake failures cause approximately 29% of truck accidents. If the trucking company failed to maintain proper records or deferred maintenance to save costs, they are liable for negligence. We investigate every vehicle system when building your case.

Common 18-Wheeler Accident Types in Alachua County

Jackknife Accidents

A jackknife occurs when the trailer and cab skid in opposite directions, with the trailer folding at an angle similar to a pocket knife. The trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often sweeping across multiple lanes of traffic.

On I-75 through Alachua County, jackknife accidents are particularly dangerous given the high speeds and heavy traffic volume. The interstate’s mix of long-haul trucks and local traffic creates conditions where sudden braking or adverse weather can trigger these catastrophic events.

Jackknife accidents account for approximately 10% of all trucking-related deaths. They often result in multi-vehicle pileups when the trailer blocks multiple lanes—something we’ve seen on Alachua County highways during rush hour and bad weather.

Common causes include sudden or improper braking (especially on wet roads), speeding on curves, empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing), improperly loaded cargo, brake system failures, and driver inexperience with emergency maneuvers.

We gather skid mark analysis, brake inspection records, weather data, ELD speed records, ECM brake application timing, and cargo loading documentation to prove what happened.

Rollover Accidents

A rollover occurs when an 18-wheeler tips onto its side or roof. Due to the truck’s high center of gravity and massive weight, rollovers are among the most catastrophic trucking accidents.

Alachua County’s mix of interstate highways, rural roads, and urban corridors creates varied conditions where rollovers occur. The curved ramps connecting I-75 to local roads, the rural highways with soft shoulders, and the tight turns in commercial areas all present rollover risks.

Approximately 50% of rollover crashes result from failure to adjust speed on curves. Rollovers frequently lead to secondary crashes from debris and fuel spills, and they’re often fatal or cause catastrophic injuries to both truck occupants and other vehicles.

Common causes include speeding on curves, taking turns too sharply, improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo, liquid cargo “slosh” shifting the center of gravity, overcorrection after tire blowout or lane departure, driver fatigue causing delayed reaction, and road design defects.

We pursue ECM data for speed through curves, cargo manifest and securement documentation, load distribution records, driver training records on rollover prevention, road geometry analysis, and witness statements on truck speed.

Underride Collisions

An underride collision occurs when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of an 18-wheeler and slides underneath the trailer. The trailer height often causes the smaller vehicle’s passenger compartment to be sheared off at windshield level.

These are among the most fatal types of 18-wheeler accidents. Approximately 400-500 underride deaths occur annually in the United States. Rear underride and side underride are both deadly; side underride has no federal guard requirement.

On Alachua County roads, underride accidents often occur at intersections where trucks stop suddenly, during lane changes on I-75, or when trucks make wide turns across traffic. The mix of high-speed interstate traffic and local road intersections creates dangerous underride scenarios.

Common causes include inadequate or missing underride guards, worn or damaged rear impact guards, truck sudden stops without adequate warning, low visibility conditions, truck lane changes into blind spots, wide right turns cutting off traffic, and inadequate rear lighting or reflectors.

We demand underride guard inspection and maintenance records, rear lighting compliance documentation, crash dynamics showing underride depth, guard installation and certification records, visibility conditions at the accident scene, and post-crash guard deformation analysis.

Federal regulations require rear impact guards on trailers manufactured after January 26, 1998, under 49 CFR § 393.86. Guards must prevent underride at 30 mph impact. However, there is NO federal requirement for side underride guards—an ongoing safety advocacy issue.

Rear-End Collisions

A rear-end collision occurs when an 18-wheeler strikes the back of another vehicle or when a vehicle strikes the back of a truck. Due to the truck’s massive weight and longer stopping distances, these accidents cause devastating injuries.

18-wheelers require 20-40% more stopping distance than passenger vehicles. A fully loaded truck at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields. Rear-end collisions are the second most common type of large truck crash.

In Alachua County, rear-end truck accidents frequently occur on I-75 during heavy traffic, at red lights on major corridors like Archer Road and Newberry Road, and in construction zones where sudden stops are required. The university area’s unpredictable traffic patterns create additional rear-end risks.

Common causes include following too closely (tailgating), driver distraction from cell phones or dispatch communications, driver fatigue and delayed reaction, excessive speed for traffic conditions, brake failures from poor maintenance, failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns, and impaired driving.

We pursue ECM data showing following distance and speed, ELD data for driver fatigue analysis, cell phone records for distraction evidence, brake inspection and maintenance records, dashcam footage when available, and traffic conditions and speed limits.

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Wide turn accidents occur when an 18-wheeler swings wide (often to the left) before making a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing or striking the vehicle that entered the gap.

Trucks make wide turns because 18-wheelers need significant space to complete turns, the trailer tracks inside the path of the cab, and drivers must swing wide to avoid curbs, signs, or buildings.

These accidents are particularly common in Alachua County’s commercial areas, at intersections near the Oaks Mall, along Archer Road’s retail corridors, and in industrial areas where trucks make deliveries. The mix of truck traffic and passenger vehicles in these areas creates dangerous squeeze play scenarios.

Common causes include failure to properly signal turning intention, inadequate mirror checks before and during turns, improper turn technique (swinging too early or too wide), driver inexperience with trailer tracking, failure to yield right-of-way when completing turns, and poor intersection design forcing wide turns.

We gather turn signal activation data from ECM, mirror condition and adjustment records, driver training records on turning procedures, intersection geometry analysis, witness statements on turn execution, and surveillance camera footage from nearby businesses.

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)

Blind spot accidents occur when an 18-wheeler changes lanes or maneuvers without seeing a vehicle in one of its four major blind spots (No-Zones).

The four No-Zones are:

• Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab—driver cannot see low vehicles
• Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer—no rear-view mirror visibility
• Left Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward—smaller than right side
• Right Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward, much larger than left—MOST DANGEROUS

Right-side blind spot accidents are especially dangerous due to the larger blind spot area. Many blind spot accidents occur during lane changes on highways.

On I-75 through Alachua County, the high volume of truck traffic combined with frequent lane changes for exits and entrances creates constant blind spot risks. The mix of local drivers, university traffic, and long-haul trucks unfamiliar with the area compounds the danger.

Common causes include failure to check mirrors before lane changes, improperly adjusted or damaged mirrors, inadequate mirror checking during sustained maneuvers, driver distraction during lane changes, driver fatigue affecting situational awareness, and failure to use turn signals allowing other drivers to anticipate.

We pursue mirror condition and adjustment at the time of crash, lane change data from ECM/telematics, turn signal activation records, driver training on blind spot awareness, dashcam footage, and witness statements on truck behavior.

Federal regulations under 49 CFR § 393.80 require mirrors to provide a clear view to the rear on both sides, with proper mirror adjustment being part of the driver’s pre-trip inspection.

Tire Blowout Accidents

Tire blowout accidents occur when one or more tires on an 18-wheeler suddenly fail, causing the driver to lose control. Debris from the blown tire can also strike other vehicles.

With 18 tires on each truck, each of which can fail, the risk is constant. Steer tire (front) blowouts are especially dangerous and can cause immediate loss of control. “Road gators”—tire debris left on highways—cause thousands of accidents annually.

Florida’s extreme heat, particularly during Alachua County’s long summers, creates perfect conditions for tire blowouts. The combination of high temperatures, heavy loads, and long highway stretches on I-75 makes tire failures a constant threat.

Common causes include underinflated tires causing overheating, overloaded vehicles exceeding tire capacity, worn or aging tires not replaced, road debris punctures, manufacturing defects, improper tire matching on dual wheels, heat buildup on long hauls, and inadequate pre-trip tire inspections.

We demand tire maintenance and inspection records, tire age and wear documentation, tire inflation records and pressure checks, vehicle weight records from weigh stations, tire manufacturer and purchase records, and the failed tire itself for defect analysis.

Federal regulations under 49 CFR § 393.75 establish tire requirements including tread depth and condition, with 49 CFR § 396.13 requiring pre-trip inspections to include tire checks. Minimum tread depth is 4/32″ on steer tires and 2/32″ on other positions.

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake failure accidents occur when an 18-wheeler’s braking system fails or underperforms, preventing the driver from stopping in time to avoid a collision.

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. Brake system violations are among the most common FMCSA out-of-service violations. Complete brake failure is often the result of systematic maintenance neglect.

The long downhill stretches on I-75 approaching Gainesville, combined with Florida’s humidity and rain, create conditions where brake systems are stressed and failures are more likely. Trucks descending from the Paynes Prairie area or approaching the I-75/I-10 interchange face significant braking demands.

Common causes include worn brake pads or shoes not replaced, improper brake adjustment (too loose), air brake system leaks or failures, overheated brakes (brake fade) on long descents, contaminated brake fluid, defective brake components, failure to conduct pre-trip brake inspections, and deferred maintenance to save costs.

We pursue brake inspection and maintenance records, out-of-service inspection history, ECM data showing brake application and effectiveness, post-crash brake system analysis, driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs), and mechanic work orders and parts records.

Federal regulations under 49 CFR §§ 393.40-55 establish brake system requirements, with 49 CFR § 396.3 requiring systematic inspection and maintenance, 49 CFR § 396.11 requiring driver post-trip reports on brake condition, and specific air brake pushrod travel limits.

Cargo Spill and Shift Accidents

Cargo spill and shift accidents occur when improperly secured cargo falls from a truck, shifts during transport causing instability, or spills onto the roadway.

Cargo securement violations are among the top 10 most common FMCSA violations. Shifted cargo causes rollover accidents when the center of gravity changes. Spilled cargo on highways causes secondary accidents.

Alachua County’s position as a distribution hub for North Central Florida means significant cargo traffic. Trucks serving the University of Florida, the numerous warehouses along I-75, and the agricultural operations throughout the county carry diverse loads—many of which can become dangerous if improperly secured.

Types of cargo accidents include cargo shift (load moves during transit, destabilizing the truck), cargo spill (load falls from truck onto roadway), and hazmat spill (hazardous materials leak or spill, creating additional dangers).

Common causes include inadequate tiedowns (insufficient number or strength), improper loading distribution, failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats, tiedown failure due to wear or damage, overloading beyond securement capacity, failure to re-inspect cargo during the trip, and loose tarps allowing cargo shift.

We gather cargo securement inspection photos, bill of lading and cargo manifest, loading company records, tiedown specifications and condition, 49 CFR 393 compliance documentation, and driver training on cargo securement.

Federal regulations under 49 CFR §§ 393.100-136 establish complete cargo securement standards with specified working load limits for tiedowns and specific requirements by cargo type (logs, metal coils, machinery, etc.).

Catastrophic Injuries: The Human Cost

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In 18-wheeler accidents, the extreme forces cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull.

Severity ranges from mild (concussion with confusion, headache, brief loss of consciousness—usually recovers but may have lasting effects) to moderate (extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits—significant recovery possible with rehabilitation) to severe (extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment—lifelong disability, may require 24/7 care).

Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, memory loss, confusion, difficulty concentrating, mood changes, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, sensory problems, speech difficulties, and personality changes.

Long-term consequences include permanent cognitive impairment, inability to work, need for ongoing care and supervision, increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s, and depression and emotional disorders. Lifetime care costs range from $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity.

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

Spinal Cord Injury

Damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of paralysis include paraplegia (loss of function below the waist—cannot walk, may affect bladder/bowel control), quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs—cannot walk or use arms, may need breathing assistance), incomplete injury (some nerve function remains—variable, may have some sensation or movement), and complete injury (no nerve function below injury—total loss of sensation and movement).

Higher injuries (cervical spine) affect more body functions. C1-C4 injuries may require ventilator support. Lower injuries (lumbar) affect legs but not arms.

Lifetime care costs range from $1.1 million+ for paraplegia (low) to $2.5 million+ (high), and from $3.5 million+ for quadriplegia (low) to $5 million+ (high). These figures represent direct medical costs only—not lost wages, pain and suffering, or loss of quality of life.

We’ve secured settlements ranging from $4.7 million to $25.8 million for spinal cord injury victims.

Amputation

Amputation in trucking accidents occurs either as traumatic amputation (limb severed at the scene due to crash forces) or surgical amputation (limb so severely damaged it must be surgically removed).

Common causes include crushing forces from truck impact, entrapment requiring amputation for extraction, severe burns requiring surgical removal, and infections from open wounds.

Ongoing medical needs include initial surgery and hospitalization, prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000+ per prosthetic), replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime, physical therapy and rehabilitation, occupational therapy for daily living skills, and psychological counseling.

Impact on life includes permanent disability, career limitations or total disability, phantom limb pain, body image and psychological trauma, need for home modifications, and dependency on others for daily activities.

We’ve recovered $1.9 million to $8.6 million for amputation victims, including a $3.8 million settlement for a client who lost a limb after a car crash followed by staph infection during treatment.

Severe Burns

Burns in 18-wheeler accidents occur through fuel tank rupture and fire, hazmat cargo spills and ignition, electrical fires from battery/wiring damage, friction burns from road contact, and chemical burns from hazmat exposure.

Classification ranges from first degree (epidermis only—minor, heals without scarring) to second degree (epidermis and dermis—may scar, may need grafting) to third degree (full thickness—requires skin grafts, permanent scarring) to fourth degree (through skin to muscle/bone—multiple surgeries, amputation may be required).

Long-term consequences include permanent scarring and disfigurement, multiple reconstructive surgeries, skin graft procedures, chronic pain, infection risks, and psychological trauma.

Internal Organ Damage

Common internal injuries include liver laceration or rupture, spleen damage requiring removal, kidney damage, lung contusion or collapse (pneumothorax), internal bleeding (hemorrhage), and bowel and intestinal damage.

These injuries are particularly dangerous because they may not show immediate symptoms, internal bleeding can be life-threatening, emergency surgery is required, and organ removal affects long-term health.

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills, wrongful death claims allow surviving family members to recover compensation. In Florida, the statute of limitations for wrongful death is 2 years from the date of death.

Who can bring a claim includes the surviving spouse, children (minor and adult), parents (especially if no spouse or children), and the estate representative.

Types of claims include the wrongful death action (compensation for survivors’ losses) and the survival action (compensation for decedent’s pain and suffering before death).

Damages available include lost future income and benefits, loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance), mental anguish and emotional suffering, funeral and burial expenses, medical expenses before death, and punitive damages if gross negligence is proven.

We’ve recovered $1.9 million to $9.5 million in wrongful death cases involving commercial trucks.

Who Can Be Held Liable in an Alachua County Trucking Accident

The Truck Driver

The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable for negligent conduct including speeding or reckless driving, distracted driving (cell phone, texting, dispatch communications), fatigued driving beyond legal limits, impaired driving (drugs, alcohol), failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections, violation of traffic laws, and failure to yield, improper lane changes, or running red lights.

We pursue the driver’s driving record and history, ELD data showing hours of service, drug and alcohol test results, cell phone records, previous accident history, and training records.

The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets and the most responsibility for safety.

Vicarious liability (respondeat superior) applies when the driver was an employee (not independent contractor), acting within the scope of employment, and performing job duties when the accident occurred.

Direct negligence includes negligent hiring (failed to check driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications), negligent training (inadequate training on safety, cargo securement, hours of service), negligent supervision (failed to monitor driver performance, ELD compliance), negligent maintenance (failed to maintain vehicle in safe condition), and negligent scheduling (pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations).

We subpoena the Driver Qualification File (or document its absence), hiring policies and background check procedures, training records and curricula, supervision and monitoring practices, dispatch records showing schedule pressure, safety culture documentation, previous accident/violation history, and CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores.

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than individual drivers—often $750,000 to $5,000,000 or more—making them the primary recovery target.

Cargo Owner / Shipper

The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable for providing improper loading instructions, failing to disclose the hazardous nature of cargo, requiring overweight loading, pressuring the carrier to expedite beyond safe limits, and misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics.

We examine shipping contracts and bills of lading, loading instructions provided, hazmat disclosure documentation, and weight certification records.

Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo onto trucks may be liable for improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations), unbalanced load distribution, exceeding vehicle weight ratings, failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns, and not training loaders on securement requirements.

We demand loading company securement procedures, loader training records, securement equipment used, and weight distribution documentation.

Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

The company that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for design defects (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement), manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures), failure to warn of known dangers, and defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning).

We research recall notices and technical service bulletins, similar defect complaints in the NHTSA database, design specifications and testing records, and component failure analysis.

Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for defective brakes or brake components, defective tires causing blowouts, defective steering mechanisms, defective lighting components, and defective coupling devices.

We preserve failed components for expert analysis, research recall history for specific parts, identify similar failure patterns, and obtain manufacturing and quality control records.

Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets may be liable for negligent repairs that failed to fix problems, failure to identify critical safety issues, improper brake adjustments, using substandard or wrong parts, and returning vehicles to service with known defects.

We obtain maintenance work orders, mechanic qualifications and training records, parts used in repairs, and inspection reports and recommendations.

Freight Broker

Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records, failure to verify carrier insurance and authority, failure to check carrier CSA scores, and selecting the cheapest carrier despite safety concerns.

We examine broker-carrier agreements, carrier selection criteria, carrier safety record at time of selection, and broker’s due diligence procedures.

Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may have separate liability for negligent entrustment of vehicle, failure to maintain owned equipment, and knowledge of driver’s unfitness.

We review lease agreements, maintenance responsibility allocations, and owner’s knowledge of driver history.

Government Entity

Federal, state, or local government may be liable in limited circumstances for dangerous road design that contributed to the accident, failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings), inadequate signage for known hazards, failure to install safety barriers, and improper work zone setup.

Special considerations include sovereign immunity limits on government liability, strict notice requirements and short deadlines, and the need to prove actual notice of dangerous condition in many cases.

We obtain road design specifications, maintenance records, prior accident history at the location, and citizen complaints about conditions.

Florida Law: What Alachua County Trucking Accident Victims Need to Know

Statute of Limitations

In Florida, you have 4 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit for a trucking accident. For wrongful death claims, the deadline is 2 years from the date of death.

However, waiting is dangerous. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

Comparative Negligence

Florida follows modified comparative negligence with a 51% bar rule. This means:

• If you are 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you are 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing

For example, if you’re found 30% at fault and your damages are $1 million, you would recover $700,000. But if you’re found 55% at fault, you recover $0.

This makes thorough investigation and strong evidence critical. The trucking company will try to blame you. We gather the ECM data, ELD logs, witness statements, and expert analysis to prove what really happened.

Damage Caps

Florida does NOT cap compensatory damages (economic and non-economic) in personal injury cases. This means your full damages are recoverable.

For punitive damages, Florida has a complex cap structure: generally limited to 3 times compensatory damages or $500,000, whichever is greater, with exceptions for intentional misconduct and other circumstances.

No-Fault Insurance

Florida is a no-fault state for car accidents, meaning your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance pays first, regardless of fault. However, trucking accidents often involve serious injuries that exceed PIP limits and allow you to step outside the no-fault system to pursue the at-fault trucking company directly.

The Attorney911 Advantage: Why Alachua County Victims Choose Us

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s admitted to federal court in the Southern District of Texas, has litigated against Fortune 500 corporations including BP in the Texas City refinery explosion, and has recovered multi-million dollar settlements for families devastated by trucking accidents.

When you hire Attorney911, you’re not getting a junior associate learning on your case. You’re getting decades of experience applied to your situation from day one.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Your Side

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working at a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how large insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. He watched adjusters minimize claims, saw how they train their people to lowball victims, and learned what makes them settle.

Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight FOR accident victims. As Lupe told ABC13 Houston in our $10 million University of hazing lawsuit coverage: “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

That same tenacity applies to every trucking case we handle.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our track record speaks for itself:

• $5+ million for a traumatic brain injury victim struck by a falling log
• $3.8+ million for a car accident victim who suffered partial leg amputation due to staph infection during treatment
• $2.5+ million for a commercial truck crash victim
• $2+ million for a maritime worker with a back injury
• Millions recovered for families in wrongful death trucking accidents

Currently, we’re litigating a $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi fraternity for hazing that caused rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure. This case has generated coverage from KHOU 11, ABC13, KPRC 2, the Houston Chronicle, and national media—demonstrating our willingness to take on powerful institutions and win.

24/7 Availability, Personal Attention

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you get a real person who understands you’re in crisis. Our 4.9-star Google rating with 251+ reviews reflects how we treat our clients. As Chad Harris said in his review: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”

We answer calls 24/7 because trucking accidents don’t happen on business hours. We offer free consultations because you shouldn’t have to pay to learn your rights. We work on contingency—33.33% pre-trial, 40% if trial is necessary—because you can’t afford to pay hourly while you’re out of work and facing medical bills.

And for our Spanish-speaking neighbors in Alachua County, hablamos español. Lupe Peña provides direct representation without interpreters. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

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

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

1. Call 911 and report the accident. Request police and emergency medical services. In Alachua County, the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office or Florida Highway Patrol will respond depending on location.

2. Seek medical attention immediately. Even if you feel “fine,” adrenaline masks pain. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal damage may not show symptoms for hours or days. Alachua County has excellent trauma care at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville. Get checked out.

3. Document everything if you’re able. Photograph all vehicles, damage, the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signals, and your injuries. Get the truck’s DOT number (on the door), trucking company name, driver information, and witness contact details.

4. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company. The trucking company’s insurer will call quickly. They’re trained to get you to say things that minimize your claim. Politely decline and say your attorney will handle communications.

5. Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately. Evidence disappears fast. We need to send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve black box data, ELD logs, maintenance records, and other critical evidence.

The 48-Hour Critical Window

The first 48 hours after a trucking accident are crucial. Here’s what the trucking company is doing—and what we do to counter it:

What the trucking company does:

• Deploys rapid-response investigators to the scene
• Contacts their insurance carrier and defense attorneys
• Begins building their narrative of the accident
• Potentially “loses” or overwrites electronic data

What Attorney911 does:

• Sends spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties within 24 hours
• Deploys our own investigators to document the scene
• Subpoenas ECM/black box data, ELD logs, and maintenance records
• Identifies and interviews witnesses before memories fade
• Photographs all vehicles before they’re repaired or destroyed
• Retains accident reconstruction experts for complex cases

The difference between calling us immediately versus waiting a week can be the difference between winning and losing your case. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage often deletes automatically after 7-14 days. Witnesses forget details. Physical evidence disappears.

Don’t let the trucking company destroy your case before it begins. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now.

Florida Trucking Law: What Alachua County Victims Need to Know

Statute of Limitations

In Florida, you have 4 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit for a trucking accident. For wrongful death claims, the deadline is 2 years from the date of death.

These deadlines are absolute. Miss them, and you lose your right to compensation forever—no matter how serious your injuries or how clear the trucking company’s fault.

However, waiting is dangerous for reasons beyond the statute of limitations. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

Comparative Negligence: Florida’s 51% Bar Rule

Florida follows modified comparative negligence with a 51% bar rule. This means:

• If you are 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you are 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing

For example, if you’re found 30% at fault and your damages are $1 million, you would recover $700,000. But if you’re found 55% at fault, you recover $0.

This makes thorough investigation and strong evidence critical. The trucking company and their insurance carrier will try to blame you. They’ll claim you were speeding, distracted, or failed to yield. We gather the ECM data, ELD logs, witness statements, and expert analysis to prove what really happened.

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years defending insurance companies. He knows exactly how they try to shift blame to victims. Now he uses that knowledge to protect you.

Damage Caps: Florida’s Approach

Florida does NOT cap compensatory damages (economic and non-economic) in personal injury cases. This means your full damages are recoverable.

For punitive damages, Florida has a complex cap structure: generally limited to 3 times compensatory damages or $500,000, whichever is greater, with exceptions for intentional misconduct and other circumstances.

This matters because punitive damages are available when trucking companies act with gross negligence, willful misconduct, conscious indifference to safety, or fraud (such as falsifying logs or destroying evidence). The possibility of punitive damages creates significant leverage in settlement negotiations.

No-Fault Insurance and Trucking Accidents

Florida is a no-fault state for car accidents, meaning your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance pays first, regardless of fault. However, trucking accidents often involve serious injuries that exceed PIP limits and allow you to step outside the no-fault system to pursue the at-fault trucking company directly.

Given the catastrophic nature of most 18-wheeler accidents, PIP limits are quickly exhausted, and victims can pursue the full range of damages against the trucking company and other liable parties.

The Investigation: How We Build Your Case

Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)

• Accept case and send spoliation letters same day
• Deploy accident reconstruction expert to scene if needed
• Obtain police crash report from Alachua County Sheriff’s Office or Florida Highway Patrol
• Photograph client injuries with medical documentation
• Photograph all vehicles before they are repaired or scrapped
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

• Subpoena ELD/black box data downloads
• Request driver’s paper log books (backup documentation)
• Obtain complete Driver Qualification File from carrier
• Request all truck maintenance and inspection records
• Obtain carrier’s CSA safety scores and inspection history
• Order driver’s complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
• Subpoena driver’s cell phone records
• Obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules

Phase 3: Expert Analysis

• Accident reconstruction specialist creates crash analysis
• Medical experts establish causation and future care needs
• Vocational experts calculate lost earning capacity
• Economic experts determine present value of all damages
• Life care planners develop comprehensive care plans for catastrophic injuries
• FMCSA regulation experts identify all violations

Phase 4: Litigation Strategy

• File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires (4 years in Florida for personal injury, 2 years for wrongful death)
• Pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
• Depose truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, maintenance personnel
• Build case for trial while negotiating settlement from position of strength
• Prepare every case as if going to trial (creates leverage in negotiations)

Why Alachua County Victims Choose Attorney911

We Know Alachua County

We’re not an out-of-state law firm with an 800 number. We understand Alachua County’s unique trucking landscape:

• I-75 corridor: The primary north-south freight route carrying thousands of trucks daily
• State Road 121 and US 441: Major truck routes connecting to rural and agricultural areas
• University of Florida area: Unique congestion patterns and delivery truck traffic
• Distribution centers: Warehousing and logistics facilities generating constant truck movement
• Agricultural operations: Seasonal harvest trucking creating peak traffic periods
• Rural road network: Two-lane highways with limited visibility and narrow shoulders

We know the local courts, the judges who handle trucking cases, and the defense attorneys who represent trucking companies in Alachua County. That local knowledge translates to better results for our clients.

We Have the Resources to Win

Trucking companies have teams of lawyers, rapid-response investigators, and millions in insurance. You need a firm with the resources to fight back.

Attorney911 has:

• Federal court admission: We can handle interstate trucking cases in federal court when advantageous
• Expert witness network: Accident reconstructionists, medical experts, vocational specialists, economists
• Investigation capabilities: Immediate deployment to accident scenes, evidence preservation, witness interviews
• Trial experience: We prepare every case for trial, creating settlement leverage
• Multi-state capability: Ralph Manginello is licensed in both Texas and New York, allowing us to handle complex jurisdictional issues

We Treat You Like Family

Our 4.9-star Google rating with 251+ reviews reflects how we treat our clients. We’re not a case mill where you’re a number. We’re a firm where:

• Ralph Manginello personally involves himself in your case
• You get direct attorney access, not just paralegals
• We return calls promptly and keep you informed
• We fight for every dollar you’re owed

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

As client Donald Wilcox told us: “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.”

We take cases other firms reject. We win when others say it’s impossible.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on contingency:

• 33.33% if settled before trial
• 40% if trial is necessary

You pay nothing upfront. We advance all investigation costs. You never receive a bill from us. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.

This means anyone can afford top-tier legal representation, regardless of financial circumstances. The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect them. You deserve the same level of representation.

Frequently Asked Questions About 18-Wheeler Accidents in Alachua County

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

Call 911, seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor, document the scene with photos and video if possible, get the trucking company name and DOT number, collect witness contact information, do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company, and call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately.

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

Yes. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Alachua County has excellent trauma care at UF Health Shands Hospital. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

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

Florida gives you 4 years from the accident date for personal injury claims, and 2 years from the date of death for wrongful death claims. But waiting is dangerous—evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and trucking companies build their defense. Contact us within days, not months.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident?

Multiple parties may be liable: the truck driver, the trucking company/motor carrier, the cargo owner or shipper, the loading company, truck or parts manufacturers, maintenance companies, freight brokers, the truck owner (if different from carrier), and government entities for road defects. We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?

Usually yes. Under respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for negligent hiring, negligent training, negligent supervision, and negligent maintenance.

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 record operational data—speed before and during the crash, brake application timing, engine RPM and throttle position, whether cruise control was engaged, and GPS location. This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices 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 much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth?

Case values depend on injury severity, medical expenses (past and future), lost income and earning capacity, pain and suffering, degree of defendant’s negligence, and available insurance coverage. Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents. We’ve seen verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions.

What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident?

Florida allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover lost future income, loss of companionship and guidance, mental anguish, funeral expenses, and punitive damages if gross negligence is proven. Time limits apply—contact us immediately to protect your rights.

Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?

No. We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

Call Attorney911 Today: Your Alachua County 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys

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 gathering evidence to protect them—not you.

What are you doing?

Every hour you wait, evidence disappears. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted automatically. Witnesses forget what they saw. The trucking company is building their defense while you’re trying to heal.

We stop that. We send spoliation letters within 24 hours. We preserve the evidence that proves your case. We investigate every liable party—not just the driver, but the company that hired them, the broker that arranged the load, the manufacturer of failed parts, and everyone else who contributed to your injuries.

Ralph Manginello has been fighting trucking companies since 1998. He’s recovered millions for families just like yours. Lupe Peña knows every trick the insurance companies use—because he used to work for them. Our team has the experience, resources, and determination to win.

We treat you like family. We communicate constantly. We fight for every dollar you deserve. And we don’t get paid unless you win.

If you’ve been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident in Alachua County, call Attorney911 now:

1-888-ATTY-911

(888) 288-9911

24/7 availability. Free consultation. No fee unless we win.

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Your fight starts with one call. We’re ready when you are.

Attorney911 / The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC
Serving Alachua County and all of Florida
25+ years of experience. Multi-million dollar results.
Former insurance defense attorney on your side.