Leon County 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys: Your Fight for Justice Starts Here

When 80,000 Pounds Changes Everything

The impact was catastrophic. One moment you’re driving through Leon County on your way to work, to pick up your kids, to live your life. The next, an 80,000-pound truck has slammed into your vehicle, and nothing will ever be the same.

Every 16 minutes, someone in America is injured in a commercial truck crash. In Leon County, Florida, the risk is even more pronounced. Our position at the crossroads of major freight corridors means heavy truck traffic flows through our communities daily. When that traffic turns deadly, victims need more than a lawyer—they need a fighter.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years making trucking companies pay for the devastation they cause. Ralph Manginello, our managing partner since 1998, has recovered multi-million dollar settlements for families just like yours. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working inside the insurance industry—now he uses that insider knowledge to fight against the very companies he used to defend. That’s your advantage.

Why Leon County 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different

Leon County sits in the Florida Panhandle, a region that serves as a critical junction for freight moving between the Gulf Coast, the Southeast, and the Midwest. Interstate 10 runs east-west through our county, carrying massive volumes of commercial truck traffic. U.S. Highway 27 and U.S. Highway 319 provide north-south corridors that feed into this interstate network.

This geographic reality means Leon County residents face unique risks:

Heavy Freight Volume: The Port of Tallahassee and regional distribution centers generate constant truck traffic. Major carriers including FedEx, UPS, and Amazon maintain significant operations serving our area.

Mixed Traffic Patterns: Leon County’s combination of interstate highways, rural roads, and urban streets creates complex driving environments where large trucks must navigate varying conditions.

Weather Challenges: Florida’s sudden thunderstorms, fog, and occasional winter ice create hazardous conditions that demand extra caution from truck drivers—caution that isn’t always exercised.

When trucking companies prioritize delivery schedules over safety, when drivers push beyond legal hours-of-service limits, when maintenance is deferred to save costs, accidents happen. And in Leon County, those accidents often involve our neighbors, our families, our community members.

The Devastating Physics of 18-Wheeler Collisions

Understanding why trucking accidents cause such catastrophic injuries requires grasping the fundamental physics at play.

The Weight Disparity: A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds under federal regulations. The average passenger vehicle weighs 3,500 to 4,000 pounds. That means the truck hitting you weighs 20 to 25 times what your vehicle does.

Kinetic Energy: The force of impact depends on mass and velocity. An 80,000-pound truck traveling at 65 mph carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a car moving at the same speed. When that energy transfers to your vehicle, the results are devastating.

Stopping Distance: At 65 mph, a passenger car needs roughly 300 feet to stop. An 18-wheeler needs approximately 525 feet—nearly two football fields. This 40% longer stopping distance means truck drivers cannot react as quickly to hazards, and when they fail to maintain safe following distances, rear-end collisions become inevitable.

These physical realities explain why trucking accidents so often result in catastrophic injuries or death for occupants of passenger vehicles, while truck drivers frequently walk away unharmed.

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Leon County

Jackknife Accidents

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

In Leon County, jackknife accidents frequently occur on I-10 during sudden thunderstorms when roads become slick. A truck driver traveling too fast for conditions who brakes suddenly can easily trigger a jackknife. The swinging trailer becomes a massive battering ram, striking vehicles in adjacent lanes with devastating force.

Jackknife accidents account for approximately 10% of all trucking-related deaths. They often result in multi-vehicle pileups when the trailer blocks multiple lanes. Once a jackknife begins, nearby drivers have almost no time to react and nowhere to go.

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

Under 49 CFR § 393.48, brake system malfunctions that contribute to jackknife accidents violate federal regulations. When we investigate these cases, we analyze skid marks to determine trailer angle, review brake inspection records, examine weather conditions, and download ECM data showing speed before braking.

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.

Leon County’s mix of interstate highways and rural roads creates rollover risks in multiple environments. On I-10, excessive speed through curves or sudden lane changes can trigger rollovers. On rural highways like U.S. 27 or U.S. 319, sharp curves combined with high speeds create dangerous conditions. Even in urban Tallahassee, rollover risks exist at highway interchanges and exit ramps.

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

Common causes include speeding on curves, ramps, or turns; taking turns too sharply at excessive speed; improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo; liquid cargo “slosh” that shifts the center of gravity; overcorrection after tire blowout or lane departure; driver fatigue causing delayed reaction; and road design defects with inadequate banking on curves.

Under 49 CFR § 393.100-136, cargo securement violations that contribute to rollovers are federal violations. We investigate by obtaining ECM data for speed through curves, reviewing cargo manifests and securement documentation, analyzing load distribution records, and examining driver training on rollover prevention.

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. Both rear underride and side underride are deadly, though side underride has no federal guard requirement.

In Leon County, underride accidents frequently occur on I-10 during traffic slowdowns. A truck driver who stops suddenly or fails to maintain adequate following distance can create conditions where following vehicles cannot stop in time. The smaller vehicle slides under the trailer, with the trailer edge striking at head level.

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.

Under 49 CFR § 393.86, rear impact guards are required on trailers manufactured after January 26, 1998. Guards must prevent underride at 30 mph impact. However, NO FEDERAL REQUIREMENT exists for side underride guards, though advocacy continues.

We investigate by examining underride guard inspection and maintenance records, reviewing rear lighting compliance documentation, analyzing crash dynamics showing underride depth, and examining guard installation and certification records.

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.

On Leon County’s highways, rear-end collisions frequently occur during rush hour traffic on I-10 or when traffic slows unexpectedly due to construction or accidents. Truck drivers following too closely or distracted by dispatch communications cannot react in time.

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.

Under 49 CFR § 392.11, following too closely violates federal regulations. We investigate by obtaining ECM data showing following distance and speed, reviewing ELD data for driver fatigue analysis, subpoenaing cell phone records for distraction evidence, and examining brake inspection and maintenance records.

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.

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

In Leon County, wide turn accidents frequently occur at intersections in Tallahassee and at highway interchanges where trucks transition between I-10 and local roads. Passenger vehicle drivers unfamiliar with truck turning patterns may enter the gap, not realizing the truck will swing back.

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

Under 49 CFR § 392.11, unsafe lane changes violate federal regulations. We investigate by obtaining turn signal activation data from ECM, examining mirror condition and adjustment records, reviewing driver training records on turning procedures, and analyzing intersection geometry.

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 Leon County’s I-10 corridor, blind spot accidents frequently occur when trucks attempt to change lanes in heavy traffic. Passenger vehicles lingering in the No-Zone become invisible to truck drivers, leading to devastating sideswipe collisions.

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.

Under 49 CFR § 393.80, mirrors must provide clear view to rear on both sides. Proper mirror adjustment is part of driver pre-trip inspection. We investigate by examining mirror condition and adjustment at time of crash, obtaining lane change data from ECM/telematics, reviewing turn signal activation records, and examining driver training on blind spot awareness.

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.

18-wheelers have 18 tires, each of which can fail. Steer tire (front) blowouts are especially dangerous—can cause immediate loss of control. “Road gators” (tire debris) cause thousands of accidents annually.

In Leon County, tire blowout accidents frequently occur on I-10 during summer months when extreme heat causes tire failures. The combination of high speeds, heavy loads, and hot pavement creates dangerous conditions. When a steer tire blows at highway speed, even experienced drivers struggle to maintain control.

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.

Under 49 CFR § 393.75, tire requirements specify tread depth and condition. Under 49 CFR § 396.13, pre-trip inspection must include tire check. Minimum tread depth is 4/32″ on steer tires, 2/32″ on other positions.

We investigate by obtaining tire maintenance and inspection records, documenting tire age and wear, reviewing tire inflation records and pressure checks, examining vehicle weight records from weigh stations, and analyzing failed tires for defect analysis.

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.

In Leon County, brake failure accidents frequently occur on I-10 exit ramps and at highway interchanges where sudden stops are required. The combination of high speeds and the need for rapid deceleration exposes brake system deficiencies. When brakes fail on a fully loaded truck descending an exit ramp, the results are catastrophic.

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.

Under 49 CFR § 393.40-55, brake system requirements are specified. Under 49 CFR § 396.3, systematic inspection and maintenance is required. Under 49 CFR § 396.11, driver post-trip report of brake condition is mandated. Air brake pushrod travel limits are specified.

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

Cargo Spill/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 center of gravity changes. Spilled cargo on highways causes secondary accidents.

In Leon County, cargo spill accidents frequently occur on I-10 and at the intersection of major freight routes. The combination of high-speed interstate traffic and the potential for improperly secured loads creates ongoing risk. When cargo spills across multiple lanes of I-10, secondary accidents are almost inevitable as drivers swerve to avoid debris.

Types of cargo accidents include cargo shift (load moves during transit, destabilizing 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 trip, and loose tarps allowing cargo shift.

Under 49 CFR § 393.100-136, complete cargo securement standards are specified. Working load limits for tiedowns are specified. Specific requirements by cargo type (logs, metal coils, machinery, etc.) are detailed.

We investigate by obtaining cargo securement inspection photos, reviewing bills of lading and cargo manifests, examining loading company records, analyzing tiedown specifications and condition, and reviewing 49 CFR 393 compliance documentation.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions occur when an 18-wheeler crosses into oncoming traffic and strikes vehicles traveling in the opposite direction.

Head-on collisions are among the deadliest accident types. Even at moderate combined speeds, the force is often fatal. They often occur on two-lane highways or from wrong-way entry.

In Leon County, head-on collisions frequently occur on rural highways like U.S. 27 and U.S. 319 where two-lane roads carry significant truck traffic. When a fatigued or distracted truck driver drifts across the centerline, or when a driver attempts to pass on a two-lane road without adequate visibility, the results are catastrophic. The combined closing speed of two vehicles traveling at highway speed creates impact forces that survival vehicles cannot withstand.

Common causes include driver fatigue causing lane departure, driver falling asleep at the wheel, driver distraction from phones, GPS, or dispatch communications, impaired driving from drugs or alcohol, medical emergency such as heart attack or seizure, overcorrection after running off road, passing on two-lane roads, and wrong-way entry onto divided highways.

Under 49 CFR § 395, hours of service violations that contribute to fatigue-related head-on collisions are federal violations. Under 49 CFR § 392.3, operating while fatigued is prohibited. Under 49 CFR § 392.4 and 392.5, drug and alcohol violations are prohibited. Under 49 CFR § 392.82, mobile phone use while driving is prohibited.

We investigate by obtaining ELD data for HOS compliance and fatigue analysis, downloading ECM data showing lane departure and steering, subpoenaing cell phone records for distraction evidence, reviewing driver medical records and certification, obtaining drug and alcohol test results, and examining route and dispatch records.

T-Bone/Intersection Accidents

T-bone or intersection accidents occur when a truck fails to yield or runs a red light, striking another vehicle broadside. These accidents are common at intersections with obstructed sightlines and result in catastrophic injuries, particularly to drivers and passengers on the struck side.

In Leon County, T-bone accidents frequently occur at major intersections along U.S. 27, U.S. 319, and at I-10 interchanges. The combination of heavy truck traffic, complex intersection geometry, and driver fatigue or distraction creates dangerous conditions. When a truck driver runs a red light or fails to yield while making a left turn, the side-impact collision transfers massive energy directly into the passenger compartment of the struck vehicle.

Sideswipe Accidents

Sideswipe accidents occur when a truck changes lanes into an occupied space, often resulting from blind spot failures. These accidents can cause loss of control and secondary crashes as the struck vehicle swerves to avoid impact or is forced off the road.

In Leon County, sideswipe accidents frequently occur on I-10 where heavy truck traffic mixes with passenger vehicles at highway speeds. When a truck driver fails to check blind spots before changing lanes, or when driver fatigue reduces situational awareness, vehicles in the No-Zone are at extreme risk. The force of a sideswipe from an 80,000-pound truck can push a passenger vehicle into adjacent lanes, off the roadway, or into oncoming traffic.

Override Accidents

Override accidents occur when a truck drives over a smaller vehicle in front, often when the truck fails to stop in time. Similar to rear-end collisions but with the vehicle passing under the truck, these accidents frequently result in catastrophic crushing injuries or death.

In Leon County, override accidents frequently occur on I-10 during sudden traffic slowdowns. When a truck driver is following too closely, distracted, or fatigued, they cannot stop their 80,000-pound vehicle in time to avoid a collision. The truck rides up and over the smaller vehicle, crushing the passenger compartment.

Lost Wheel/Detached Trailer Accidents

Lost wheel or detached trailer accidents occur when a wheel or trailer separates during operation, often due to maintenance and inspection failures. These components often strike oncoming vehicles with fatal results.

In Leon County, these accidents can occur anywhere trucks travel, but the high-speed environment of I-10 creates particularly dangerous conditions. When a wheel bearing fails or a trailer coupling separates, the loose component becomes a deadly projectile traveling at highway speed. Oncoming vehicles have no time to react.

Runaway Truck Accidents

Runaway truck accidents occur when brake fade on long descents causes loss of braking ability, often compounded by failure to use runaway ramps and driver inexperience with mountain driving.

While Leon County doesn’t have mountain passes, the long, gentle grades on I-10 and the heavy braking required at interchanges can create similar conditions. When truck drivers ride their brakes on long descents or fail to properly use engine braking, brake fade can occur. The truck becomes an unstoppable force barreling toward traffic ahead.

Who Can Be Held Liable in Your Leon County Trucking Accident

One of the most critical differences between car accidents and 18-wheeler accidents is the number of potentially liable parties. While a car crash typically involves just two drivers, trucking accidents can implicate a web of companies and individuals who all contributed to the dangerous conditions that caused your injuries.

At Attorney911, we investigate every possible defendant because more liable parties means more insurance coverage means higher compensation for you. Here’s who we look at:

The Truck Driver

The driver who caused your accident may be personally liable for negligent conduct including speeding, distracted driving, fatigued driving beyond legal limits, impaired driving, failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections, and violation of traffic laws.

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. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are responsible for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment.

We also pursue direct negligence claims including negligent hiring (failed to check driver’s background), negligent training (inadequate safety training), negligent supervision (failed to monitor driver performance), negligent maintenance (failed to maintain vehicle), and negligent scheduling (pressured drivers to violate hours-of-service regulations).

We subpoena the Driver Qualification File, hiring policies, training records, supervision practices, dispatch records showing schedule pressure, safety culture documentation, previous accident history, and CSA scores.

Cargo Owner / Shipper

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

We examine shipping contracts, bills of lading, loading instructions, 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 under 49 CFR 393, unbalanced load distribution, exceeding vehicle weight ratings, failure to use proper blocking and bracing, and inadequate loader training.

We examine 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 in brake systems or stability control, manufacturing defects like faulty welds or component failures, failure to warn of known dangers, and defective safety systems.

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

Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufacture specific parts—brakes, tires, steering components—may be liable for defective products that fail and cause accidents.

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

Maintenance Company

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

We examine maintenance work orders, mechanic qualifications and training, 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 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 examine lease agreements, maintenance responsibility allocations, and owner’s knowledge of driver history.

Government Entity

Federal, state, or local government may be liable for dangerous road design, failure to maintain roads, inadequate signage for known hazards, failure to install safety barriers, and improper work zone setup.

Special considerations apply: sovereign immunity limits government liability, strict notice requirements and short deadlines exist, and plaintiffs must often prove actual notice of dangerous condition.

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

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol: Why Time Is Your Enemy

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 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: It puts defendants on legal notice of their preservation obligation, creates serious consequences if evidence is destroyed, and courts can impose sanctions, adverse inferences, or even default judgment for spoliation. The sooner sent, the more weight it carries.

At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters 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
• Previous employer verification
• 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

ECM/Black Box Data: The Objective Truth

Commercial trucks have electronic systems that continuously record operational data—similar to an airplane’s black box but for trucks.

Types of Electronic Recording:

Critical Data Points:

• Speed Before Crash: Proves speeding or excessive speed for conditions
• Brake Application: Shows when and how hard brakes were applied
• Throttle Position: Reveals if driver was accelerating or coasting
• Following Distance: Calculated from speed and deceleration data
• Hours of Service: Proves fatigue and HOS violations
• GPS Location: Confirms route and timing
• Fault Codes: May reveal known mechanical issues driver ignored

This data is objective and tamper-resistant. It directly contradicts driver claims of “I wasn’t speeding” or “I hit my brakes immediately.” This data has led to multi-million dollar verdicts in trucking cases.

FMCSA Record Retention Requirements

Understanding minimum retention periods helps us know what evidence should exist:

Once we send a preservation demand and litigation is anticipated, the duty to preserve extends beyond these minimum periods. Destroying evidence after receiving our letter can result in adverse inference instructions, sanctions, monetary penalties, default judgment in extreme cases, and punitive damages for intentional destruction.

Catastrophic Injuries: When Life Changes Forever

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. At Attorney911, we’ve spent 25 years helping victims of these devastating injuries rebuild their lives.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when 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 Levels:

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.

At Attorney911, we’ve recovered between $1,548,000 and $9,838,000 for traumatic brain injury victims. As client Glenda Walker told us after her case, “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:

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 to $5 million+ for quadriplegia—and these figures represent only direct medical costs, not lost wages, pain and suffering, or loss of quality of life.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen spinal cord injury settlements ranging from $4,770,000 to $25,880,000+.

Amputation

Amputation injuries in trucking accidents occur through two mechanisms: traumatic amputation (limb severed at the scene due to crash forces) and surgical amputation (limb so severely damaged it must be surgically removed).

Common causes in 18-wheeler accidents 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.

The impact on life is profound: 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.

At Attorney911, we’ve recovered between $1,945,000 and $8,630,000 for amputation victims.

Severe Burns

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

Burn classification matters enormously for prognosis:

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 from trucking accidents 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 often required. Organ removal affects long-term health.

Wrongful Death

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

Who can bring a claim varies by state law but typically includes surviving spouse, children (minor and adult), parents (especially if no spouse or children), and estate representative.

Types of claims include wrongful death action (compensation for survivors’ losses) and 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.

At Attorney911, we’ve recovered between $1,910,000 and $9,520,000+ in wrongful death trucking cases.

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 are codified in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR), Parts 300-399. When trucking companies and drivers violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that cause catastrophic accidents.

Part 390: General Applicability and Definitions

This part establishes who must comply with federal trucking regulations. It applies to all motor carriers operating commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce, all drivers of CMVs in interstate commerce, and all vehicles with GVWR over 10,001 lbs.

Key definitions include commercial motor vehicle (vehicle with GVWR 10,001+ lbs, designed for 16+ passengers, or transporting hazardous materials), motor carrier (person or company operating CMVs in interstate commerce), and interstate commerce (trade, traffic, or transportation crossing state lines).

Under 49 CFR § 390.3, “The rules in this subchapter are applicable to all employers, employees, and commercial motor vehicles that transport property or passengers in interstate commerce.”

Part 391: Driver Qualification Standards

This part establishes who is qualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle. Minimum driver qualifications under 49 CFR § 391.11 require that a person shall not drive a commercial motor vehicle unless they are at least 21 years old (interstate) or 18 years old (intrastate), can read and speak English sufficiently, can safely operate the CMV and cargo type, are physically qualified under § 391.41, have a valid commercial motor vehicle operator’s license (CDL), have completed a driver’s road test or equivalent, are not disqualified under § 391.15, and have completed required entry-level driver training.

Motor carriers MUST maintain a Driver Qualification (DQ) File for EVERY driver containing employment application completed per § 391.21, motor vehicle record from state licensing authority, road test certificate or equivalent documentation, medical examiner’s certificate (current, valid, max 2 years), annual driving record review, previous employer inquiries for 3-year driving history investigation, and drug and alcohol test records.

If the trucking company failed to maintain a proper DQ file, failed to check the driver’s background, or hired a driver with a poor safety record, they can be held liable for negligent hiring. We subpoena these records in every trucking case.

Physical qualification requirements under 49 CFR § 391.41 include no loss of foot, leg, hand, or arm without exemption, no established medical history of epilepsy or seizures, no mental, nervous, or psychiatric disorder likely to interfere with safe driving, no current clinical diagnosis of alcoholism, no use of Schedule I controlled substances, no use of non-Schedule I substances that impair driving ability, vision of at least 20/40 in each eye with or without correction, and hearing adequate to perceive forced whisper at 5 feet.

Part 392: Driving of Commercial Motor Vehicles

This part establishes rules for the safe operation of CMVs. Under 49 CFR § 392.3, “No driver shall operate a commercial motor vehicle, and a motor carrier shall not require or permit a driver to operate a commercial motor vehicle, while the driver’s ability or alertness is so impaired, or so likely to become impaired, through fatigue, illness, or any other cause, as to make it unsafe for him/her to begin or continue to operate the commercial motor vehicle.”

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

Under 49 CFR § 392.4, drivers are prohibited from being on duty or operating a CMV while under the influence of any Schedule I substance, under the influence of an amphetamine, narcotic, or any substance that renders them incapable of safe driving, or possessing a Schedule I substance (unless prescription).

Under 49 CFR § 392.5, a driver shall not use alcohol within 4 hours before going on duty or operating a CMV, use alcohol while on duty or operating a CMV, be under the influence of alcohol (.04 BAC or higher) while on duty, or possess any alcohol while on duty (with limited exceptions).

Under 49 CFR § 392.6, “No motor carrier shall schedule a run, nor shall any such carrier permit or require the operation of any commercial motor vehicle, between points in such period of time as would require the commercial motor vehicle to be operated at speeds in excess of those prescribed by the jurisdictions in or through which the commercial motor vehicle is being operated.”

Under 49 CFR § 392.11, “The driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicle and the traffic upon, and conditions of, the highway.”

Under 49 CFR § 392.82, drivers are prohibited from using a hand-held mobile telephone while driving, reaching for mobile phone in manner requiring leaving seated position, and texting while driving (49 CFR § 392.80).

Part 393: Parts and Accessories for Safe Operation

This part establishes equipment and cargo securement standards. Under 49 CFR § 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; and blocking the driver’s view or interfering with operation.

Performance criteria under 49 CFR § 393.102 require cargo securement systems to withstand forward 0.8 g deceleration (sudden stop), rearward 0.5 g acceleration, lateral 0.5 g (side-to-side), and downward at least 20% of cargo weight if not fully contained.

Tiedown requirements specify that aggregate working load limit must be at least 50% of cargo weight for loose cargo, at least one tiedown for cargo 5 feet or less in length, at least two tiedowns for cargo over 5 feet or under 1,100 lbs, and additional tiedowns for every 10 feet of cargo length.

Under 49 CFR § 393.40-55, all CMVs must have properly functioning brake systems including service brakes on all wheels, parking/emergency brake system, and air brake systems meeting specific requirements with brake adjustment maintained within specifications.

Under 49 CFR § 393.11-26, required lighting includes headlamps, tail lamps, stop lamps, clearance and side marker lamps, reflectors and retroreflective sheeting, and turn signal lamps.

Violations of cargo securement cause rollover, jackknife, and spill accidents. Brake failures cause rear-end collisions. We investigate every vehicle system when building your case.

Part 395: Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations

This is the most commonly violated regulation in fatal trucking accidents. These rules prevent driver fatigue by limiting driving time and requiring rest.

For property-carrying drivers (most 18-wheelers):

Under 49 CFR § 395.1(g), drivers using sleeper berth may split 10-hour off-duty period with at least 7 consecutive hours in sleeper berth plus at least 2 consecutive hours off-duty (in berth or otherwise), with neither period counting against the 14-hour window.

Since December 18, 2017, under 49 CFR § 395.8, most CMV drivers must use Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) that automatically record driving time, synchronize with vehicle engine to record objective data, cannot be altered after the fact (unlike paper logs), and record GPS location, speed, and engine hours.

ELD data proves 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.

Part 396: Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

This part ensures CMVs are maintained in safe operating condition. Under 49 CFR § 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.”

Under 49 CFR § 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.

Under 49 CFR § 396.11, after each day’s driving, drivers must prepare 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.

Under 49 CFR § 396.17, every CMV must pass a comprehensive annual inspection covering 16+ systems. Inspection decal must be displayed. Records must be retained for 14 months.

Under 49 CFR § 396.3, motor carriers must maintain records for each vehicle showing identification (make, serial number, year, tire size), schedule for inspection, repair, and maintenance, and record of repairs and maintenance, with records retained for 1 year.

Brake failures cause 29% of truck accidents. If the trucking company failed to maintain proper records or deferred maintenance, they are liable for negligence.

Insurance Coverage: Why Trucking Cases Are Different

Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance far exceeding typical auto policies.

Federal Minimum Liability Limits

Unlike car accidents where insurance may be limited to $30,000-$100,000, trucking accidents typically have at least $750,000 available—and often much more. Many carriers carry $1-5 million in coverage.

This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.

Types of Damages Recoverable

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life):

Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence):

Punitive damages may be available when the trucking company or driver acted with gross negligence, willful misconduct, conscious indifference to safety, or fraud such as falsifying logs or destroying evidence.

Florida Law: What Leon County Victims Need to Know

Understanding Florida’s specific legal framework is essential for Leon County trucking accident victims.

Statute of Limitations

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

These deadlines are longer than many states, but waiting is still dangerous. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and trucking companies build their defenses. We recommend contacting an attorney within days, not years.

Comparative Negligence

Florida follows a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar. 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

This 2023 change from Florida’s previous pure comparative negligence system makes it more critical than ever to have experienced attorneys who can minimize any attribution of fault to you.

Damage Caps

Florida does not cap economic damages in personal injury cases. Non-economic damages are also generally uncapped for most personal injury cases, though there are caps in certain contexts like medical malpractice.

Punitive damages are capped at the greater of three times compensatory damages or $500,000, though this cap does not apply in certain circumstances involving intentional misconduct.

Insurance Requirements

Florida requires all drivers to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, which provides $10,000 in medical and disability benefits regardless of fault. However, for serious injuries that exceed PIP limits or meet the “serious injury” threshold, victims can pursue claims against at-fault parties.

Commercial trucking companies operating in Florida must comply with federal minimum insurance requirements of $750,000 to $5,000,000 depending on cargo type, and many carry significantly more.

Your Next Steps: Protecting Your Rights in Leon County

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Leon County, time is critical. The trucking company has already begun building its defense. Evidence is disappearing. You need someone fighting for you now.

What to Do Immediately

1. Seek medical attention—even if injuries seem minor, adrenaline masks pain and internal injuries may not be immediately apparent
2. Document everything—photograph the scene, vehicles, your injuries, and any evidence
3. Gather information—trucking company name, DOT number, driver information, witness contacts
4. Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company without legal counsel
5. Contact Attorney911 immediately—we send spoliation letters within 24 hours to preserve critical evidence

Why Choose Attorney911

25+ Years of Experience: Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s admitted to federal court and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against the largest trucking companies in America.

Insider Knowledge: Our associate attorney Lupe Peña used to work for insurance companies. Now he fights against them. He knows their playbook, their tactics, and exactly how they try to minimize your claim. That’s your advantage.

Proven Results: We’ve recovered over $50 million for Texas families. Our documented settlements include $5+ million for traumatic brain injury, $3.8+ million for amputation, $2.5+ million for truck crashes, and $2+ million for maritime injuries.

Family Treatment: As client Chad Harris said, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” We treat every client with the personal attention they deserve.

Spanish Language Services: Hablamos Español. Lupe Peña provides fluent Spanish representation without interpreters. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on contingency. You pay absolutely nothing unless we win your case. We advance all investigation costs. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

24/7 Availability

Trucking accidents don’t happen on business hours. We’re available around the clock to respond to your emergency. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 anytime, day or night.

Call Attorney911 Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

If you’ve been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident in Leon County, don’t wait. The trucking company is already building their defense. Evidence is disappearing. Every hour you delay makes your case harder to prove.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911). Our Leon County trucking accident attorneys offer free consultations and work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win.

With 25+ years of experience, federal court admission, and a former insurance defense attorney on our team, we have the expertise and resources to take on the largest trucking companies and win. We’ve recovered over $50 million for our clients, and we’re ready to fight for you.

Don’t let the trucking company get away with it. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today.

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.

Attorney911 / The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC
25+ Years Fighting for Trucking Accident Victims
Offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont
Serving Leon County and All of Florida