18-Wheeler & Trucking Accident Attorneys in Nassau County, Florida

When 80,000 Pounds Changes Everything: Your Fight Starts Here

The impact was catastrophic. One moment you’re driving through Nassau County—maybe on I-95 heading toward Jacksonville, or on US-17 through Yulee—and the next, an 80,000-pound truck has destroyed your life. At Attorney911, we understand what you’re facing because we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for trucking accident victims across Florida and beyond.

Ralph Manginello has been making trucking companies pay since 1998. Our firm has recovered multi-million dollar settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes—including $5 million for a traumatic brain injury victim, $3.8 million for an amputation case, and $2.5 million in truck crash recoveries. We don’t just handle cases; we treat you like family. As our client Chad Harris said, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. The trucking company already has lawyers. You need yours.

Why Nassau County 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different

Nassau County sits at a critical juncture of Florida’s freight network. I-95—the backbone of East Coast commerce—cuts through the county carrying thousands of commercial trucks daily between Jacksonville and Georgia. US-17 serves as a major north-south corridor connecting coastal communities. The Port of Fernandina handles breakbulk cargo and container traffic, generating significant truck movements through Nassau County roads.

This heavy commercial traffic creates unique dangers. Trucks entering and exiting I-95 at high speeds. Long-haul drivers pushing through fatigue on the final stretch to Jacksonville distribution centers. Port trucks navigating narrow county roads not designed for 80,000-pound vehicles. When these factors combine with driver negligence or company cost-cutting, catastrophic accidents result.

Our Nassau County trucking accident attorneys know these corridors intimately. We understand how the convergence of interstate commerce, port operations, and rural highway conditions creates specific accident risks. This local knowledge, combined with our deep expertise in federal trucking regulations, gives us an advantage in building your case.

The 15 Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents We Handle in Nassau 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. On Nassau County’s I-95 corridor, where trucks often travel at highway speeds through variable weather conditions, jackknifes can sweep across multiple lanes, causing multi-vehicle pileups.

These accidents typically result from sudden braking on wet roads, speed too fast for conditions, or improperly loaded trailers. Under 49 CFR § 393.100, cargo must be secured to prevent shifting that affects vehicle stability. When trucking companies violate these regulations, we hold them accountable.

Rollover Accidents

Nassau County’s mix of interstate highways and rural roads creates rollover risks. Trucks taking curves too quickly on US-17, or navigating the interchange ramps on I-95, can tip onto their sides or roofs. The 80,000-pound weight makes these accidents devastating.

Approximately 50% of rollovers result from failure to adjust speed on curves. Cargo shift is another major factor—liquid cargo “slosh” can dramatically change a truck’s center of gravity. We investigate loading records and driver training to prove negligence.

Underride Collisions

Among the most fatal trucking accidents, underrides occur when a smaller vehicle slides under a trailer. The trailer height often shears off the passenger compartment at windshield level. On Nassau County’s high-speed corridors, these accidents are often fatal.

Rear underride guards are required under 49 CFR § 393.86 for trailers manufactured after January 26, 1998. However, many guards fail in crashes, and NO federal requirement exists for side underride guards. We investigate guard compliance and pursue manufacturers when defective guards contribute to deaths.

Rear-End Collisions

An 18-wheeler at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields. When truck drivers follow too closely on I-95 through Nassau County, or fail to anticipate traffic slowdowns, catastrophic rear-end collisions result.

These accidents often involve driver distraction, fatigue, or brake failures. Under 49 CFR § 392.11, drivers must not follow more closely than is “reasonable and prudent.” We use ECM data to prove following distance violations and brake application timing.

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Trucks making right turns on Nassau County’s narrower roads—particularly in historic Fernandina Beach or downtown Yulee—must swing wide. This creates a dangerous gap that other vehicles enter, only to be crushed when the truck completes its turn.

These accidents often result from inadequate signaling, poor mirror checks, or driver inexperience. We investigate driver training records and company policies on turn procedures.

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)

18-wheelers have massive blind spots on all four sides. The right-side blind spot is particularly dangerous—extending from the cab door backward across multiple lanes. When truck drivers change lanes on I-95 without properly checking these “No-Zones,” sideswipe accidents result.

Under 49 CFR § 393.80, mirrors must provide clear view to the rear on both sides. We investigate mirror condition, adjustment, and driver checking procedures.

Tire Blowout Accidents

Florida’s extreme heat and humidity create conditions for tire failures. When 18-wheeler tires blow on Nassau County highways, the resulting loss of control can cause jackknifes, rollovers, or multi-vehicle pileups.

Under 49 CFR § 393.75, tires must meet tread depth and condition requirements. Drivers must inspect tires during pre-trip inspections per § 396.13. We investigate maintenance records and tire age to prove negligence.

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake problems contribute to approximately 29% of large truck crashes. On Nassau County’s highways, where trucks descend from the Georgia border or approach Jacksonville, brake fade and failures cause devastating accidents.

Under 49 CFR §§ 393.40-55, brake systems must meet strict requirements. Systematic maintenance is required under § 396.3. We investigate inspection records, out-of-service orders, and deferred maintenance to prove company negligence.

Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents

Nassau County’s port traffic and agricultural shipments create cargo-related accident risks. When improperly secured loads shift during transit or spill onto roadways, the resulting instability or debris causes rollovers, jackknifes, and secondary crashes.

Under 49 CFR §§ 393.100-136, cargo must be secured to prevent shifting, falling, or leaking. Working load limits and tiedown requirements are specified. We investigate loading procedures, securement equipment, and company training.

Head-On Collisions

When fatigued or distracted truck drivers cross into oncoming traffic on Nassau County’s two-lane roads or highway ramps, head-on collisions result. These are among the deadliest accident types, with combined closing speeds often proving fatal.

These accidents typically involve hours of service violations (49 CFR Part 395), distracted driving (§ 392.82), or impairment (§§ 392.4-5). We investigate ELD data, cell phone records, and drug test results.

T-Bone/Intersection Accidents

Trucks running red lights or failing to yield at Nassau County intersections cause devastating broadside collisions. The height and weight of trucks make these impacts particularly dangerous for passenger vehicle occupants.

We investigate traffic signal timing, driver distraction, and company policies on intersection navigation.

Sideswipe Accidents

When trucks change lanes without proper clearance on I-95, sideswipe accidents result. These can cause loss of control, secondary crashes, and underride situations.

We investigate mirror use, turn signal activation, and driver training on lane changes.

All Liable Parties We Pursue in Nassau County Trucking Cases

Most law firms only sue the driver and trucking company. We investigate EVERY potentially liable party—because more defendants means more insurance coverage means higher compensation for you.

The Truck Driver

The driver who caused your accident may be personally liable for negligent conduct: speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, impairment, or traffic violations. We pursue their personal assets and insurance when available.

The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

This is often your primary recovery target. Under respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts. Additionally, trucking companies face direct liability for:

• Negligent hiring — failing to check driver backgrounds
• Negligent training — inadequate safety instruction
• Negligent supervision — failing to monitor driver behavior
• Negligent maintenance — poor vehicle upkeep
• Negligent scheduling — pressuring drivers to violate hours of service

With federal minimum insurance of $750,000 to $5,000,000, trucking companies carry far more coverage than individual drivers.

The Cargo Owner / Shipper

Companies that own shipped cargo may be liable for:

• Improper loading instructions
• Failure to disclose hazardous nature
• Requiring overweight loading
• Pressuring carriers to expedite unsafely

The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loaders who physically secure cargo may be liable for:

• Inadequate tiedowns per 49 CFR § 393.100-136
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
• Failure to use proper blocking and bracing

Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

Design or manufacturing defects in:

• Brake systems
• Stability control
• Fuel tank placement
• Safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

Parts Manufacturers

Defective components causing failures:

• Brakes and brake parts
• Tires
• Steering mechanisms
• Lighting components
• Coupling devices

Maintenance Companies

Third-party repair shops may be liable for:

• Negligent repairs
• Failure to identify critical safety issues
• Improper brake adjustments
• Using substandard parts

Freight Brokers

Brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

• Negligent carrier selection
• Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
• Ignoring poor carrier safety records

Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, separate owners may face:

• Negligent entrustment liability
• Failure to maintain owned equipment

Government Entities

Limited circumstances where road design or maintenance contributed:

• Dangerous road design
• Failure to maintain safe conditions
• Inadequate signage
• Improper work zone setup

The 48-Hour Evidence Crisis: Why You Must Act Immediately

Evidence in 18-wheeler accidents disappears faster than in any other type of case. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours—sometimes before the ambulance arrives. Every hour you wait, your case gets harder to prove.

Critical Evidence Destruction Timelines

The Spoliation Letter: Your Evidence Shield

Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we send formal spoliation letters to:

• The trucking company and all related entities
• Their insurance carriers
• Any third-party maintenance or loading companies
• Vehicle and parts manufacturers

This letter puts them on legal notice that:

• Litigation is anticipated
• All evidence must be preserved
• Destruction constitutes spoliation
• Courts may impose sanctions, adverse inferences, or default judgment

Once our letter is received, any intentional destruction of evidence becomes a serious legal violation that can strengthen your case.

Electronic Data We Demand Preservation Of

Engine Control Module (ECM) / Electronic Control Unit (ECU):

• Engine performance data
• Speed before and during crash
• Brake application timing
• Throttle position
• Cruise control status
• Fault codes and warnings

Event Data Recorder (EDR):

• Pre-crash data triggered by sudden deceleration
• Airbag deployment timing
• Seatbelt usage
• Impact severity

Electronic Logging Device (ELD):

• Hours of service compliance
• Driving time vs. on-duty time
• Location history via GPS
• Rest break documentation
• Duty status changes

Telematics and Fleet Management:

• Real-time GPS tracking
• Speed history
• Route data
• Driver behavior scoring
• Communication logs

Dashcam and Video:

• Forward-facing road footage
• Cab-facing driver footage
• Surrounding vehicle cameras

Cell Phone and Communications:

• Driver’s call and text records
• Dispatch communications
• Qualcomm or similar messaging

Physical Evidence We Secure

• The truck and trailer themselves
• Failed components (brakes, tires, steering)
• Cargo and securement devices
• Maintenance records and work orders
• Driver qualification files
• Training materials and safety policies
• Insurance policies and coverage documents

FMCSA Regulations: The Rules Trucking Companies Break

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates all commercial trucking operations. When trucking companies violate these rules, they create the dangerous conditions that cause catastrophic accidents. Proving FMCSA violations is often the key to establishing negligence and securing maximum compensation.

Part 390: General Applicability

Establishes who must comply with federal trucking regulations. Applies to all motor carriers operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce, including all vehicles with GVWR over 10,001 lbs, vehicles designed to transport 16+ passengers, and vehicles transporting hazardous materials requiring placards.

Part 391: Driver Qualification Standards

Minimum Driver Qualifications (§ 391.11):

A person cannot 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 driver’s license (CDL)
• Have completed a driver’s road test or equivalent
• Are not disqualified under § 391.15

Driver Qualification File Requirements (§ 391.51):

Motor carriers MUST maintain a DQ File for EVERY driver containing:

• Employment application
• Motor vehicle record from state licensing authority
• Road test certificate or equivalent
• Medical examiner’s certificate (valid maximum 2 years)
• Annual driving record review
• Previous employer inquiries (3-year history)
• Drug and alcohol test records

Why This Matters For Your Case:

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.

Part 392: Driving of Commercial Motor Vehicles

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):

Prohibits operating while under the influence of Schedule I substances, amphetamines, narcotics, or any substance rendering the driver incapable of safe driving.

Alcohol (§ 392.5):

Prohibits alcohol use within 4 hours before going on duty, while on duty, or being under the influence (0.04 BAC or higher) while operating.

Speeding (§ 392.6):

Prohibits scheduling runs that would require speeds exceeding posted limits.

Following Too Closely (§ 392.11):

Requires drivers to maintain reasonable and prudent following distance.

Mobile Phone Use (§ 392.82):

Prohibits hand-held mobile telephone use and texting while driving.

Part 393: Parts and Accessories for Safe Operation

Cargo Securement (§§ 393.100-136):

Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent:

• Leaking, spilling, blowing, or falling from the vehicle
• Shifting that affects vehicle stability or maneuverability
• Blocking the driver’s view or interfering with operation

Performance Criteria (§ 393.102):

Cargo securement systems must 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

Brakes (§§ 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.

Lighting (§§ 393.11-26):

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

Part 395: Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations

THESE ARE THE MOST COMMONLY VIOLATED REGULATIONS IN TRUCKING ACCIDENTS.

Property-Carrying Drivers (Most 18-Wheelers):

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

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

WHY ELD DATA IS CRITICAL EVIDENCE:

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

Part 396: Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

General Maintenance Requirement (§ 396.3):

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

Driver Inspection Requirements:

• Pre-Trip Inspection (§ 396.13): Drivers must verify CMV is in safe operating condition before driving
• Post-Trip Report (§ 396.11): Written report required covering brakes, steering, lighting, tires, horn, wipers, mirrors, coupling devices, wheels, and emergency equipment
• Annual Inspection (§ 396.17): Comprehensive inspection required every 12 months with decal displayed

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

Catastrophic Injuries: The Human Cost of Trucking Negligence

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. An 80,000-pound truck is 20-25 times heavier than your 4,000-pound car. At 65 mph, a loaded truck needs 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields. When these forces collide with human bodies, the results are devastating.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when sudden trauma damages the brain. In 18-wheeler accidents, extreme forces cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull. Symptoms range from headaches and confusion to memory loss, personality changes, and permanent cognitive impairment.

Our firm has recovered $1.5 million to $9.8 million for TBI victims. These funds don’t erase what happened, but they provide resources for the best possible recovery—specialized medical care, rehabilitation, and support for families whose loved ones will never be the same.

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between brain and body, often resulting in paralysis. Higher injuries affect more body functions—C1-C4 injuries may require ventilators for breathing. Lower injuries affect legs but preserve arm function.

Lifetime care costs are staggering: $1.1 million to $5 million or more, representing direct medical costs only—not lost wages, pain and suffering, or loss of quality of life. Our firm has secured settlements ranging from $4.7 million to $25.8 million for spinal cord injury victims.

Amputation

Whether traumatic (severed at the scene) or surgical (damaged beyond repair), amputation permanently alters lives. Ongoing needs include prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000+ each, with replacements needed throughout life), physical and occupational therapy, psychological counseling, and home modifications.

Our amputation case settlements range from $1.9 million to $8.6 million. As client Glenda Walker told us after her case, “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”

Severe Burns

Fuel tank ruptures, hazmat spills, and electrical fires in trucking accidents cause devastating burns. Third and fourth-degree burns destroy full skin thickness and underlying tissue, requiring multiple skin grafts, reconstructive surgeries, and lifelong scar management.

Internal Organ Damage

Liver lacerations, spleen damage, kidney injury, lung contusions, and internal bleeding often require emergency surgery and can cause permanent impairment. These injuries may not show immediate symptoms, making prompt medical evaluation critical.

Wrongful Death

When trucking negligence kills, surviving family members can pursue wrongful death claims. Damages include lost future income, loss of companionship and guidance, mental anguish, funeral expenses, and in cases of gross negligence, punitive damages.

Our wrongful death settlements range from $1.9 million to $9.5 million. We are deeply sorry for your loss, and we fight to ensure your family receives justice.

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

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

But waiting is dangerous for another reason: evidence disappears. We recommend contacting an attorney within days, not months.

Comparative Negligence: Florida’s 51% Bar Rule

Florida follows modified comparative negligence 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

Example: If your damages are $1 million and you’re found 30% at fault, you recover $700,000. If you’re found 60% at fault, you recover $0.

This makes proving the trucking company’s negligence critical. The trucking company and their insurer will try to shift blame to you. Our job is to gather evidence that proves their fault.

Damage Caps: What Florida Limits

Florida does NOT cap economic damages (medical bills, lost wages) or non-economic damages (pain and suffering) in personal injury cases involving motor vehicles.

However, punitive damages are capped at the greater of:

• Three times the amount of compensatory damages, OR
• $500,000

Punitive damages are rare and require proving gross negligence or intentional misconduct—such as a trucking company knowingly putting a dangerous driver on the road.

Florida’s No-Fault Insurance System: How It Affects Trucking Cases

Florida is a no-fault state for automobile insurance. This means your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage pays for your medical bills and lost wages regardless of who caused the accident, up to your policy limits (typically $10,000).

However, trucking accidents often exceed PIP limits dramatically. When your injuries meet Florida’s “serious injury” threshold—permanent injury, significant scarring, disfigurement, or death—you can step outside the no-fault system and pursue the full tort claim against the trucking company.

This is critical in Nassau County trucking cases, where catastrophic injuries are common and PIP coverage is grossly inadequate.

The Evidence That Wins Nassau County Trucking Cases

Trucking companies don’t play fair. They have rapid-response teams, lawyers on retainer, and systems designed to minimize your claim. You need someone who fights back with equal force—and knows where to find the evidence they try to hide.

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

Commercial trucks record operational data continuously—similar to airplane black boxes. This data includes:

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing and force
• Engine RPM and throttle position
• Cruise control status
• Fault codes and warnings

This objective data often contradicts driver claims. “I wasn’t speeding” becomes disproven by ECM data showing 78 mph in a 65 zone. “I hit my brakes immediately” fails when data shows no brake application for 4.5 seconds before impact.

Critical: ECM data can be overwritten in 30 days. We send preservation demands immediately.

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Records

Since December 2017, federal law requires ELDs that automatically record driver hours. ELD data proves:

• Exactly how long the driver was on duty
• Whether required breaks were taken
• Any hours of service violations
• GPS location history

Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. ELD violations are smoking guns for negligence.

Driver Qualification File

Federal law requires trucking companies to maintain comprehensive files on every driver, including:

• Employment application and background check
• Driving record from all states
• Previous employer verification
• Medical certification and exam records
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training documentation

Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring. We subpoena these records in every case.

Maintenance and Inspection Records

Under 49 CFR § 396.3, carriers must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain vehicles. Required records include:

• Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
• Annual inspection documentation
• Brake inspection and adjustment records
• Tire replacement and condition logs
• Repair work orders and parts records

Deferred maintenance is profit-driven negligence. When brake failures or tire blowouts cause crashes, these records prove the company knew of dangers and failed to act.

Cell Phone and Dispatch Records

Distracted driving kills. We subpoena:

• Driver’s cell phone call and text records
• Dispatch communications and messaging
• Qualcomm or fleet management system data
• GPS location and speed data

These records prove when drivers were texting, talking, or receiving distracting communications instead of focusing on the road.

Drug and Alcohol Test Results

Federal law requires post-accident testing in many circumstances. Positive tests, or failure to test, prove impairment and automatic liability.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Nassau County Trucking Accident Case

25+ Years of Fighting Trucking Companies

Ralph Manginello has represented 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 explosion litigation, and has recovered multi-million dollar settlements for families just like yours.

The Insurance Defense Advantage

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—because he used to do it. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight FOR you, not against you.

As Lupe said in his ABC13 Houston interview about our $10 million University of hazing lawsuit: “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our documented recoveries include:

• $5+ million — Traumatic brain injury from falling log
• $3.8+ million — Partial leg amputation from car accident with medical complications
• $2.5+ million — Commercial truck crash recovery
• $2+ million — Maritime back injury under Jones Act
• Millions — Multiple wrongful death trucking cases

As client Glenda Walker said, “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”

Three Offices, Coast-to-Coast Reach

With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve trucking accident victims throughout Texas, Florida, and across the United States. Ralph Manginello’s dual licensure in Texas and New York, plus federal court admission, allows us to handle complex interstate cases.

24/7 Availability — Real People Answer

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 any time, day or night. We answer trucking accident calls immediately because we know evidence disappears fast and you need answers now.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on contingency—33.33% pre-trial, 40% if trial is necessary. You pay nothing upfront. We advance all investigation costs. You never receive a bill from us.

Hablamos Español

Lupe Peña provides fluent Spanish representation without interpreters. For our Nassau County Hispanic community, this means direct communication, cultural understanding, and no barriers to justice. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

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

Immediate Steps (If You’re Able)

1. Call 911 — Report the accident and request emergency medical response
2. Seek medical attention — Even if injuries seem minor; adrenaline masks pain
3. Document the scene — Take photos and video of everything: vehicles, damage, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signals, weather
4. Get truck information — Trucking company name, DOT number, driver name and CDL number, license plates
5. Collect witness information — Names, phone numbers, email addresses
6. Do NOT give recorded statements — To any insurance company, including your own
7. Call Attorney911 immediately — 1-888-ATTY-911

Why Medical Attention Matters Immediately

Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal damage may not show symptoms for hours or days. Prompt medical evaluation:

• Identifies hidden injuries before they become critical
• Creates documentation linking injuries to the accident
• Prevents insurance companies from claiming injuries were “pre-existing” or unrelated

Nassau County’s medical facilities, including Baptist Medical Center Nassau and UF Health Jacksonville for severe trauma, can provide the care you need while creating the medical records your case requires.

Why You Shouldn’t Talk to Insurance Adjusters

Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. They are trained to:

• Get you to say things that minimize your claim
• Record statements and use your words against you
• Offer quick, low settlements before you know your full damages
• Delay until evidence disappears or you become desperate

Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows every tactic they’ll use. Let us handle all communications while you focus on healing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nassau County 18-Wheeler Accidents

How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Nassau County, Florida?

You have 4 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the deadline is 2 years from the date of death. However, waiting is dangerous—evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and trucking companies build their defenses. Contact an attorney within days, not months.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Florida follows modified comparative negligence with a 51% bar. If you are 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage. If you are 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing. This makes proving the trucking company’s negligence critical—we gather evidence to minimize your attributed fault.

How much is my Nassau County trucking accident case worth?

Case values depend on injury severity, medical expenses (past and future), lost income and earning capacity, pain and suffering, degree of defendant negligence, and available insurance. Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million or more in coverage—far more than typical car accidents. We’ve recovered settlements from hundreds of thousands to multi-millions.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Owner-operators complicate liability, but both the driver and contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies. The contracting company may still be vicariously liable or directly negligent for carrier selection and supervision.

How do you prove the driver was fatigued?

We subpoena ELD records showing hours of service violations, ECM data showing erratic driving patterns, dispatch records showing schedule pressure, and driver cell phone records showing late-night activity. Fatigue causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes.

What is a spoliation letter and why does it matter?

A spoliation letter is a legal notice demanding preservation of all accident-related evidence. We send these within 24-48 hours of being retained. Once received, intentional destruction of evidence becomes spoliation—a serious violation that can result in sanctions, adverse jury instructions, or default judgment.

Will my case go to trial?

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

How much does it cost to hire Attorney911?

Nothing upfront. We work on contingency—33.33% pre-trial, 40% if trial is necessary. We advance all investigation costs. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

Do you handle cases in Spanish?

Sí. Hablamos Español. Lupe Peña provides fluent Spanish representation without interpreters. For Nassau County’s Hispanic community, this means direct communication, cultural understanding, and no barriers to justice. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Your Next Step: Call Attorney911 Today

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

What are you doing?

Every hour you wait, evidence disappears. Black box data overwrites. Dashcam footage deletes. Witnesses forget. The trucking company builds their defense while you struggle to heal.

At Attorney911, we fight back immediately. Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we send spoliation letters to preserve every piece of evidence. We subpoena ELD records, driver qualification files, and maintenance logs. We deploy accident reconstruction experts to the scene. We build your case for maximum recovery while you focus on healing.

Ralph Manginello has spent 25 years making trucking companies pay. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows their playbook. We’ve recovered $50 million for families across Texas, Florida, and beyond. We treat you like family—not a case number.

The consultation is free. The call is confidential. And you pay nothing unless we win.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. 24/7. We answer.

Attorney911 / The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC
Houston • Austin • Beaumont
Serving Nassau County, Florida and nationwide

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