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

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

The impact was catastrophic. One moment you’re driving through Orange County on I-4, heading past the Mall at Millenia or maybe catching the turnoff for Universal Orlando. The next, an 80,000-pound semi-truck is jackknifing across three lanes, or worse—it’s barreling through a red light at the intersection of Orange Blossom Trail and Sand Lake Road. In an instant, everything changes.

Every 16 minutes, someone in America is injured in a commercial truck crash. But here in Orange County, Florida, the risk runs even higher. We’re at the crossroads of major freight corridors—I-4 cutting east-west through the heart of our county, I-95 running the entire Atlantic coast just to our east, and the Florida Turnpike bringing massive truck traffic through our communities. The Port of Orlando and our proximity to Port Canaveral mean container trucks constantly move through Orange County, often on tight schedules that push drivers past safe limits.

If you’re reading this, you or someone you love may be one of those statistics. You didn’t ask for this. But now you have to fight for what you deserve. And you don’t have to do it alone.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for trucking accident victims. Ralph Manginello has been holding trucking companies accountable 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 a client who lost a limb, and $2.5 million in truck crash recoveries. We know what it takes to win against the largest trucking companies in America, and we bring that fight to every case we handle in Orange County and throughout Florida.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911. The consultation is free. You pay nothing unless we win.

Why Orange County, Florida 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different

Orange County isn’t just any Florida county. We’re the heart of Central Florida’s economy, home to Orlando’s world-famous attractions, and a critical logistics hub that attracts massive commercial truck traffic. This unique position creates specific dangers that make trucking accidents here particularly devastating.

The Orange County Freight Corridor Problem

Our county sits at the intersection of three major freight arteries:

I-4: The Deadliest Highway in America
The stretch of I-4 running through Orange County has been ranked the deadliest interstate in the country. For truck drivers, the combination of tourist traffic unfamiliar with the route, sudden congestion near Disney and Universal, and the ongoing I-4 Ultimate construction project creates a perfect storm for accidents. Trucks entering Orange County from the west face steep grades near the Lake County line, while the eastbound approach to the I-4/I-95 interchange requires complex lane changes that challenge even experienced drivers.

Florida’s Turnpike: The Speed Trap
The Turnpike cuts through western Orange County, carrying massive truck traffic between Miami and the northern states. The straight, flat stretches encourage excessive speed, while the limited access points mean trucks often enter at highway speeds without adequate merging distance. The Turnpike’s service plazas create additional hazards as fatigued drivers rush to meet delivery schedules.

State Road 50 (Colonial Drive): Urban Truck Nightmare
SR 50 serves as Orange County’s primary east-west commercial corridor, yet it’s completely unsuited for heavy truck traffic. The narrow lanes, frequent traffic signals, and dense commercial development create constant conflict points. Trucks making deliveries to the countless businesses along Colonial Drive must navigate tight turns, limited sight distances, and mixed traffic that includes pedestrians, cyclists, and distracted drivers.

The Port and Distribution Center Factor

Orange County’s economy depends on logistics. The region’s massive distribution centers—Amazon’s facilities near Orlando International Airport, the Walmart distribution complex, and countless smaller operations—generate constant truck traffic. These facilities often operate on just-in-time delivery schedules that pressure drivers to exceed safe driving hours.

The proximity to Port Canaveral adds cruise ship and cargo traffic to the mix. Container trucks moving between the port and inland distribution centers use Orange County roads, often during peak traffic hours when delivery schedules demand it.

Weather and Road Conditions

Florida’s weather creates unique trucking hazards that Orange County drivers face year-round:

Summer Thunderstorms: Afternoon storms reduce visibility to near zero and create hydroplaning conditions. Truck drivers unfamiliar with Florida’s sudden, intense rainfall may not adjust speed appropriately.

Hurricane Season: From June through November, evacuation traffic and emergency supply trucks create congestion and fatigue-related accidents.

Tourist Season: Winter months bring “snowbird” traffic unfamiliar with local roads, creating unpredictable driving patterns that challenge truck drivers.

The Human Cost in Orange County

These factors combine to create real tragedy. In recent years, Orange County has seen:

• Multiple fatalities on I-4 involving commercial trucks jackknifing across all lanes
• Pedestrian deaths at truck-heavy intersections along Orange Blossom Trail
• Wrongful death cases involving tourist vehicles struck by delivery trucks near International Drive
• Catastrophic injuries from underride accidents on the Florida Turnpike

Every one of these accidents represents a family whose lives changed forever. At Attorney911, we’ve represented Orange County families through these darkest moments. We know the local hospitals—Orlando Regional Medical Center, AdventHealth Orlando, Nemours Children’s Hospital—where truck accident victims receive trauma care. We know the Orange County courts where these cases are filed. And we know how to build cases that win against the trucking companies that operate on our roads.

If you’ve been hurt in a trucking accident anywhere in Orange County, call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. Our consultation is free, and you pay nothing unless we win your case.

The 10 Potentially Liable Parties in Your Orange County Trucking Accident

Most law firms look at a trucking accident and see one defendant: the driver. At Attorney911, we see what the trucking companies hope you’ll miss—a web of companies and individuals who all contributed to the dangerous conditions that caused your crash. Finding every liable party isn’t just thorough lawyering. It’s how we maximize your recovery.

Here’s who we investigate in every Orange County trucking accident case:

1. The Truck Driver

The person behind the wheel may bear direct responsibility for your injuries. We examine whether the driver was:

• Speeding or driving too fast for conditions — Orange County’s I-4 construction zones and tourist traffic require constant speed adjustment
• Distracted by cell phones, dispatch communications, or in-cab electronics — Florida law prohibits texting while driving, and FMCSA bans hand-held phone use
• Fatigued beyond federal limits — Hours of service violations are epidemic in the trucking industry
• Impaired by drugs, alcohol, or prescription medications — Post-accident testing is mandatory but time-sensitive
• Properly licensed and medically certified — Unqualified drivers are a growing problem

We subpoena the driver’s complete history: their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) record, medical certification, previous employers, accident history, and any criminal record. The driver who hit you may have been fired from previous jobs for safety violations—a fact their current employer should have discovered before hiring them.

2. The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

This is where the real money is—and where the real negligence often hides. Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million in insurance, making them the primary target for recovery. But they’re liable for more than just their driver’s mistakes.

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):
Under this doctrine, employers are responsible for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. If the driver was on the clock, making a delivery, or otherwise working, the company is liable.

Direct Negligence:
We also pursue direct claims against the company for:

• Negligent Hiring: Did they check the driver’s background? Did they know about previous accidents or violations? We subpoena their hiring procedures and compare them to industry standards.

• Negligent Training: Did the driver receive adequate safety training? Did they understand Orange County’s specific hazards—our construction zones, tourist traffic patterns, summer thunderstorms? Training records reveal whether the company invested in safety or just put drivers on the road.

• Negligent Supervision: Did the company monitor the driver’s hours of service? Did they respond to ELD alerts about HOS violations? Did they investigate customer complaints about unsafe driving? Supervision failures often reveal a culture that prioritizes delivery speed over safety.

• Negligent Maintenance: Did the company maintain the vehicle according to FMCSA standards? Maintenance records can show deferred repairs, ignored defects, and cost-cutting that put dangerous trucks on Orange County roads.

• Negligent Scheduling: Did dispatchers pressure drivers to violate hours of service to meet delivery deadlines? Dispatch records and communications often reveal this pressure explicitly.

We obtain the company’s FMCSA safety data—their CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores, inspection history, crash rates, and safety rating. A company with a history of violations can’t claim your accident was an isolated incident.

3. The Cargo Owner / Shipper

The company that owned the cargo being transported may share liability. This is especially relevant in Orange County, where our distribution centers and retail hubs generate massive freight volume.

Bases for Shipper Liability:

• Improper Loading Instructions: Did the shipper provide incorrect weight distribution guidance? Did they specify securement methods that were inadequate for the cargo type?

• Failure to Disclose Hazards: Did the shipper fail to inform the carrier that the cargo was hazardous? Did they misrepresent the nature of the materials?

• Overweight Loading: Did the shipper load cargo exceeding the truck’s weight ratings? Overweight trucks have longer stopping distances, reduced maneuverability, and increased rollover risk.

• Expedited Delivery Pressure: Did the shipper impose delivery deadlines that forced the carrier to violate hours of service or speed limits?

• Misrepresented Cargo Characteristics: Did the shipper understate the weight, overstate the stability, or otherwise mislead the carrier about cargo properties?

We examine shipping contracts, bills of lading, loading instructions, and communications between shipper and carrier. In Orange County’s logistics-heavy economy, these relationships often reveal shared responsibility for unsafe conditions.

4. The Cargo Loading Company

Often distinct from the shipper, third-party loading companies physically place cargo on trucks. Their negligence in securement is a leading cause of cargo shift accidents, rollovers, and spills.

Bases for Loading Company Liability:

• Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR 393): Did the loaders use adequate tiedowns? Did they follow FMCSA’s specific requirements for the cargo type? Did they verify working load limits?

• Unbalanced Load Distribution: Did they place heavy cargo too high? Did they create a top-heavy condition that increased rollover risk? Proper loading keeps the center of gravity low and centered.

• Exceeding Vehicle Weight Ratings: Did they load beyond the truck’s GVWR or axle ratings? Overloading stresses brakes, tires, and suspension systems.

• Failure to Use Blocking, Bracing, or Friction Mats: Did they use appropriate methods to prevent cargo movement? Different cargo types require different securement approaches.

• Inadequate Loader Training: Were the loaders trained on FMCSA securement requirements? Did they understand the physics of cargo movement during transport?

• Failure to Re-Inspect: Did they verify securement after loading was complete? Did they check for loose or damaged tiedowns?

We obtain loading company procedures, training records, and the specific securement equipment used. In Orange County, where distribution centers operate around the clock, loading companies often prioritize speed over safety—with catastrophic results.

5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

The companies that designed and built the truck, trailer, or major systems may be liable when defects cause accidents. Product liability claims can yield substantial recoveries and often reveal systemic safety failures.

Bases for Manufacturer Liability:

• Design Defects: Did the brake system design provide inadequate stopping power? Was the fuel tank placement prone to rupture in collisions? Did the cab structure fail to protect occupants in rollovers?

• Manufacturing Defects: Were there faulty welds in the frame? Were components improperly installed? Did quality control failures allow dangerous defects to reach consumers?

• Failure to Warn: Did the manufacturer know of dangers but fail to warn users? Were operating limitations inadequately communicated?

• Defective Safety Systems: Did anti-lock brakes (ABS) fail to activate? Did electronic stability control (ESC) malfunction? Did collision warning systems provide inadequate alerts?

We research recall notices, technical service bulletins, NHTSA complaint databases, and similar incident reports. Preserving the failed component for expert analysis is critical—and time-sensitive.

6. Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufactured specific components—brakes, tires, steering systems, lighting—may bear separate liability when their products fail catastrophically.

Bases for Parts Liability:

• Defective Brakes or Components: Did brake pads fail to provide adequate friction? Did air brake systems leak or malfunction? Did brake drums crack or fail?

• Defective Tires Causing Blowouts: Was there a manufacturing defect in the tire structure? Did the tire fail under normal operating conditions? Were there known defects the manufacturer failed to address?

• Defective Steering Mechanisms: Did steering components fail? Was there excessive play or sudden loss of control?

• Defective Lighting Components: Did brake lights fail to illuminate? Were turn signals non-functional? Did reflectors fail to provide adequate visibility?

• Defective Coupling Devices: Did the fifth wheel fail? Did trailer connections separate unexpectedly?

We obtain the failed components for expert metallurgical and engineering analysis. Component-level defects often reveal broader safety failures that affected multiple vehicles.

7. Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance providers who service trucking fleets may be liable when negligent repairs or inspections contribute to accidents. These companies often operate across multiple states, serving national carrier networks.

Bases for Maintenance Company Liability:

• Negligent Repairs: Did repairs fail to address the reported problem? Were substandard parts used? Was work performed by unqualified technicians?

• Failure to Identify Critical Safety Issues: Did inspections miss obvious defects? Were brake problems overlooked? Did technicians fail to recognize dangerous conditions?

• Improper Brake Adjustments: Were brakes adjusted incorrectly, creating uneven braking or inadequate stopping power? Did adjustments exceed manufacturer specifications?

• Use of Substandard or Wrong Parts: Did the maintenance company use non-OEM parts that failed? Were parts rated for inadequate loads or conditions?

• Returning Vehicles to Service with Known Defects: Did technicians document defects but release the vehicle anyway? Was there pressure to complete repairs quickly despite safety concerns?

We obtain maintenance work orders, technician qualifications, parts invoices, and inspection checklists. Maintenance company negligence often reveals systemic cost-cutting that prioritizes speed over safety.

8. Freight Broker

Freight brokers arrange transportation between shippers and carriers without owning trucks themselves. When they negligently select unsafe carriers, they may share liability for resulting accidents.

Bases for Broker Liability:

• Negligent Selection of Carrier: Did the broker hire a carrier with a poor safety record? Did they ignore FMCSA data showing the carrier’s violations?

• Failure to Verify Carrier Insurance and Authority: Did the broker confirm the carrier had adequate insurance? Did they verify operating authority was active and in good standing?

• Failure to Check Carrier CSA Scores: Did the broker review the carrier’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability scores? Did they ignore alerts about unsafe driving, hours of service violations, or maintenance problems?

• Selecting Cheapest Carrier Despite Safety Concerns: Did cost considerations override safety? Did the broker choose a carrier they knew was cutting corners?

We obtain broker-carrier agreements, carrier selection criteria, and FMCSA safety data available at the time of selection. Broker liability is often overlooked but can provide additional insurance coverage for catastrophic injuries.

9. Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the individual or entity that owns the truck may have separate liability from the carrier operating it. These arrangements are common in the trucking industry and create complex liability questions.

Bases for Owner Liability:

• Negligent Entrustment of Vehicle: Did the owner know the driver was unqualified, had a poor safety record, or was otherwise unfit to operate the vehicle?

• Failure to Maintain Owned Equipment: Did the owner have maintenance responsibilities they failed to fulfill? Did they defer repairs to save costs?

• Knowledge of Driver’s Unfitness: Did the owner know about the driver’s medical conditions, substance abuse problems, or safety violations?

We obtain lease agreements, maintenance responsibility allocations, and the owner’s knowledge of the driver’s history. Owner liability can provide additional insurance coverage beyond the carrier’s policy.

10. Government Entity

Federal, state, or local government agencies may bear liability when dangerous road conditions contribute to trucking accidents. These claims are complex due to sovereign immunity protections, but they can be pursued when government negligence is clear.

Bases for Government Liability:

• Dangerous Road Design: Did the road design create unnecessary hazards for large vehicles? Were grades too steep? Were curves inadequately banked? Were sight lines obstructed?

• Failure to Maintain Roads: Did potholes, debris, worn markings, or other maintenance failures contribute to the accident?

• Inadequate Signage for Known Hazards: Were warning signs missing, obscured, or insufficient for the hazard? Did the government know about repeated accidents at a location but fail to warn?

• Failure to Install Safety Barriers: Were guardrails missing or inadequate? Were median barriers needed but not installed?

• Improper Work Zone Setup: Did construction or maintenance zones create unexpected hazards? Were lane closures properly marked? Were speed reductions enforced?

Special Considerations for Government Claims:

Sovereign immunity limits government liability in many circumstances. Strict notice requirements and shortened deadlines often apply—sometimes requiring notice within months rather than years. We must often prove the government had actual notice of the dangerous condition.

We obtain road design specifications, maintenance records, prior accident history at the location, and citizen complaints about conditions. Government liability is challenging but can provide additional recovery when road conditions clearly contributed to catastrophic injuries.

The Evidence That Wins Orange County Trucking Cases: Our 48-Hour Preservation Protocol

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 may already be at the accident scene, gathering evidence to protect their interests.

What are you doing?

In 18-wheeler accident cases, evidence disappears fast. Critical data that could prove the trucking company’s negligence can be destroyed or overwritten within days—sometimes hours. If you don’t act immediately, you may lose the proof you need to win your case.

Critical Evidence Timelines

Evidence Type	Destruction Risk	Why It Matters
ECM/Black Box Data	Overwrites in 30 days or with new driving events	Proves speed, braking, throttle position before crash
ELD Data	May be retained only 6 months	Proves hours of service violations, driver fatigue
Dashcam Footage	Often deleted within 7-14 days	Shows driver’s behavior, road conditions, crash sequence
Surveillance Video	Business cameras typically overwrite in 7-30 days	Independent witness to accident from nearby businesses
Witness Memory	Fades significantly within weeks	Eyewitness testimony becomes less reliable over time
Physical Evidence	Vehicle may be repaired, sold, or scrapped	Damage patterns tell the story of impact forces
Drug/Alcohol Tests	Must be conducted within specific windows	FMCSA requires testing but delays can invalidate results

The Spoliation Letter: Your Legal Shield Against Evidence Destruction

The moment you hire Attorney911, we send a spoliation letter to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties. This formal legal notice puts them on notice that litigation is anticipated and demands preservation of all evidence related to your accident.

Why the spoliation letter matters:

• Legal obligation: Once defendants receive our letter, they have a legal duty to preserve evidence. Destroying evidence after this notice is spoliation—a serious legal violation.

• Serious consequences: Courts can impose sanctions, instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable, or even enter default judgment against spoliating defendants.

• Immediate weight: The sooner we send the letter, the more weight it carries. That’s why we don’t wait.

What Our Spoliation Letter Demands

Our preservation demands are comprehensive. We require defendants to maintain:

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 (pre-employment and random)
• 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 carry electronic systems that record operational data continuously—similar to airplane black boxes. This data is objective, tamper-resistant, and often directly contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What ECM/ELD data proves:

Data Point	What It Reveals
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 has led to multi-million dollar verdicts in trucking cases nationwide. But it can be overwritten in as little as 30 days. That’s why our immediate preservation protocol is critical.

The 48-Hour Rule: Why Immediate Action Is Essential

We tell every Orange County trucking accident client the same thing: The first 48 hours after your accident are the most critical for your case.

During this window:

• The trucking company’s rapid-response team is at the scene
• Their lawyers are advising the driver on what to say
• Their insurance adjuster is looking for ways to minimize your claim
• Critical electronic data is at risk of being overwritten
• Witness memories are fresh and should be recorded
• Physical evidence is undisturbed

While they’re building their defense, what are you doing?

Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer 24/7. We’ll send a preservation letter within hours. We’ll deploy investigators to the scene. We’ll start building your case while the trucking company is still figuring out how to minimize your claim.

The clock started the moment that truck hit you. Don’t let critical evidence disappear. Call now.

FMCSA Regulations: The Rules Trucking Companies Break

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates every commercial truck on American highways. These regulations are codified in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR), Parts 390-399. When trucking companies and drivers violate these rules, they create the dangerous conditions that cause catastrophic accidents.

At Attorney911, we know these regulations inside and out. Our managing partner Ralph Manginello has spent 25+ years using FMCSA violations to prove trucking company negligence. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña, who spent years working for insurance companies before joining our firm, knows exactly how carriers try to hide these violations—and how to expose them.

Here’s what the trucking company that hit you doesn’t want you to know about federal regulations:

49 CFR Part 390: General Applicability & Definitions

Purpose: Establishes who must comply with federal trucking regulations.

Applies To:

• All motor carriers operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce
• All drivers of CMVs in interstate commerce
• All vehicles with Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) over 10,001 lbs
• All vehicles designed to transport 16+ passengers (including driver)
• All vehicles transporting hazardous materials requiring placards

Key Definitions:

Term	Definition
Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV)	Vehicle with GVWR 10,001+ lbs, designed for 16+ passengers, or transporting hazardous materials
Motor Carrier	Person or company operating CMVs in interstate commerce
Driver	Any person who operates a CMV
Interstate Commerce	Trade, traffic, or transportation crossing state lines

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

Why This Matters for Your Case: The trucking company can’t claim federal regulations don’t apply. If they operated across state lines—or even if they operated entirely within Florida but carried goods that had moved in interstate commerce—they’re subject to FMCSA regulations. Violations prove negligence.

49 CFR Part 391: Driver Qualification Standards

Purpose: Establishes who is qualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle.

Minimum Driver Qualifications (49 CFR § 391.11):

A person shall not drive a commercial motor vehicle unless they:

1. Are at least 21 years old (interstate) or 18 years old (intrastate)
2. Can read and speak English sufficiently
3. Can safely operate the CMV and cargo type
4. Are physically qualified under § 391.41
5. Have a valid commercial motor vehicle operator’s license (CDL)
6. Have completed a driver’s road test or equivalent
7. Are not disqualified under § 391.15 (violations, suspensions)
8. Have completed required entry-level driver training

Driver Qualification File Requirements (49 CFR § 391.51):

Motor carriers MUST maintain a Driver Qualification (DQ) File for EVERY driver containing:

Document	Requirement
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	Must be conducted and documented
Previous Employer Inquiries	3-year driving history investigation
Drug & Alcohol Test Records	Pre-employment and random testing

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. Missing or incomplete files are smoking guns that prove the company cut corners on safety.

Physical Qualification Requirements (49 CFR § 391.41):

Drivers must be medically qualified to operate CMVs. Key requirements 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)
• Hearing adequate to perceive forced whisper at 5 feet

Medical conditions that affect Orange County drivers particularly—sleep apnea from our humid climate, cardiovascular stress from summer heat—must be properly managed. Failure to maintain medical certification is a serious violation.

49 CFR Part 392: Driving of Commercial Motor Vehicles

Purpose: Establishes rules for the safe operation of CMVs.

Ill or Fatigued Operators (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.”

Why This Matters: This regulation makes BOTH the driver AND the trucking company liable when a fatigued driver causes an accident. The company can’t claim they didn’t know—the regulation requires them to monitor and prevent fatigue.

Drugs and Other Substances (49 CFR § 392.4):

A driver shall not be on duty or operate a CMV while:

1. Under the influence of any Schedule I substance
2. Under the influence of an amphetamine, narcotic, or any substance that renders them incapable of safe driving
3. Possessing a Schedule I substance (unless prescription)

Alcohol (49 CFR § 392.5):

A driver shall not:

1. Use alcohol within 4 hours before going on duty or operating a CMV
2. Use alcohol while on duty or operating a CMV
3. Be under the influence of alcohol (.04 BAC or higher) while on duty
4. Possess any alcohol while on duty (with limited exceptions)

The .04 BAC limit for commercial drivers is half the .08 limit for regular drivers—reflecting the greater danger posed by impaired truck operation.

Speeding (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.”

This regulation targets the root cause of much speeding—unrealistic delivery schedules that force drivers to exceed safe speeds.

Following Too Closely (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.”

Given that 18-wheelers need 40% more stopping distance than passenger vehicles, following too closely is particularly dangerous—and particularly common when drivers are fatigued or distracted.

Mobile Phone Use (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
• Texting while driving (49 CFR § 392.80)

Violations carry substantial penalties and prove negligence in accident cases.

49 CFR Part 393: Parts and Accessories for Safe Operation

Purpose: Establishes equipment and cargo securement standards.

Cargo Securement (49 CFR § 393.100-136):

General Requirements (§ 393.100):
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 (sudden stop)
• Rearward: 0.5 g acceleration
• Lateral: 0.5 g (side-to-side)
• Downward: At least 20% of cargo weight if not fully contained

Tiedown Requirements:

• 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
• Additional tiedowns for every 10 feet of cargo length

Brakes (49 CFR § 393.40-55):

All CMVs must have properly functioning brake systems:

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

Lighting (49 CFR § 393.11-26):

Required lighting includes:

• Headlamps, tail lamps, stop lamps
• Clearance and side marker lamps
• Reflectors and retroreflective sheeting
• Turn signal lamps

Why This Matters for Your Case: Violations of cargo securement cause rollover, jackknife, and spill accidents. Brake failures cause rear-end collisions. Lighting failures contribute to nighttime accidents. We investigate every vehicle system when building your case—and we find violations that other firms miss.

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

Purpose: Prevents driver fatigue by limiting driving time and requiring rest.

THESE ARE THE MOST COMMONLY VIOLATED REGULATIONS IN TRUCKING ACCIDENTS.

PROPERTY-CARRYING DRIVERS (Most 18-Wheelers):

Rule	Requirement	Violation Consequence
11-Hour Driving Limit	Cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty	Fatigue-related accidents, impaired reaction time
14-Hour Duty Window	Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty	Driver exhaustion, microsleep episodes
30-Minute Break	Must take 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving	Impaired alertness, decreased vigilance
60/70-Hour Limit	Cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days	Cumulative fatigue, chronic sleep deprivation
34-Hour Restart	Can restart 60/70-hour clock with 34 consecutive hours off	Inadequate recovery, residual fatigue
10-Hour Off-Duty	Must have minimum 10 consecutive hours off duty before driving	Insufficient rest, circadian disruption

SLEEPER BERTH PROVISION (49 CFR § 395.1(g)):

Drivers using sleeper berth may split 10-hour off-duty period:

• At least 7 consecutive hours in sleeper berth
• Plus at least 2 consecutive hours off-duty (in berth or otherwise)
• Neither period counts against 14-hour window

ELECTRONIC LOGGING DEVICE (ELD) MANDATE (49 CFR § 395.8):

Since December 18, 2017, most CMV drivers must use ELDs that:

• Automatically record driving time
• Synchronize with vehicle engine to record objective data
• Cannot be altered after the fact (unlike paper logs)
• Record GPS location, speed, 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
• Any HOS violations

We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this data before it’s destroyed.

49 CFR Part 396: Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

Purpose: 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. Must review last driver vehicle inspection report if defects were noted.

Post-Trip Report (§ 396.11):
After each day’s driving, drivers must prepare written report on vehicle condition covering at minimum:

• Service brakes
• Parking brake
• Steering mechanism
• Lighting devices and reflectors
• Tires
• Horn
• Windshield wipers
• Rear vision mirrors
• Coupling devices
• Wheels and rims
• Emergency equipment

ANNUAL INSPECTION (§ 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.

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, and maintenance
• Record of repairs and maintenance
• Records must be retained for 1 year

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. We find these violations in case after case—and we use them to prove the company put profits over safety.

Catastrophic Injuries: When 18-Wheeler Accidents Destroy Lives

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a 4,000-pound passenger vehicle, the energy transfer is devastating. The truck is 20 times heavier. The force is approximately 80 times greater. The stopping distance is 40% longer. The survival gap is measured in milliseconds and millimeters.

At Attorney911, we’ve represented Orange County families through the darkest moments after trucking accidents. We know the local trauma centers where victims receive emergency care—Orlando Regional Medical Center’s Level I Trauma Center, AdventHealth Orlando, Nemours Children’s Hospital for our youngest victims. We know the long road of rehabilitation at facilities like Brooks Rehabilitation and Orlando Health Rehabilitation Institute. And we know how to build cases that secure the resources families need for that long road.

Here are the catastrophic injuries we see in Orange County 18-wheeler accidents—and what they mean for your case:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

What It Is:
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. The result can range from a mild concussion to severe, permanent brain damage.

Severity Levels:

Level	Symptoms	Prognosis
Mild (Concussion)	Confusion, headache, brief loss of consciousness	Usually recovers, but may have lasting effects
Moderate	Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits	Significant recovery possible with rehabilitation
Severe	Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment	Lifelong disability, may require 24/7 care

Common Symptoms:

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

Long-Term Consequences:

• Permanent cognitive impairment
• Inability to work
• Need for ongoing care and supervision
• Increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s
• Depression and emotional disorders

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

Settlement Range: Based on Attorney911’s experience, TBI settlements range from $1,548,000 to $9,838,000+ for moderate to severe cases.

Why TBI Cases Require Specialized Attorneys:
TBI cases are among the most complex personal injury claims. The full extent of brain damage may not be apparent for months. Insurance companies aggressively dispute TBI claims, arguing that symptoms are exaggerated or unrelated to the accident. You need attorneys who understand neuropsychological testing, can interpret MRI and CT findings, and have relationships with the medical experts who can prove your case.

At Attorney911, we’ve built a network of neurologists, neuropsychologists, and rehabilitation specialists who help us prove the full extent of TBI damages. We know how to counter insurance company tactics that minimize brain injuries. And we fight for the full compensation our clients need for lifelong care.

Spinal Cord Injury

What It Is:
Damage to the spinal cord that disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis. In 18-wheeler accidents, spinal injuries typically result from the massive forces of collision, rollover, or ejection.

Types of Paralysis:

Type	Definition	Impact
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
Complete Injury	No nerve function below injury	Total loss of sensation and movement

Level of Injury Matters:

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

Lifetime Care Costs:

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

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

Settlement Range: Spinal cord injury cases typically range from $4,770,000 to $25,880,000+, with paralysis cases commanding the highest settlements.

Amputation

Types of Amputation:

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

Common in 18-Wheeler Accidents Due To:

• Crushing forces from truck impact
• Entrapment requiring amputation for extraction
• Severe burns requiring surgical removal
• Infections from open wounds

Ongoing Medical Needs:

• 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
• Psychological counseling

Impact on Life:

• Permanent disability
• Career limitations or total disability
• Phantom limb pain
• Body image and psychological trauma
• Need for home modifications
• Dependency on others for daily activities

Settlement Range: Amputation cases typically range from $1,945,000 to $8,630,000, depending on the limb affected and the victim’s age and occupation.

Severe Burns

How Burns Occur in 18-Wheeler Accidents:

• Fuel tank rupture and fire
• Hazmat cargo spills and ignition
• Electrical fires from battery/wiring damage
• Friction burns from road contact
• Chemical burns from hazmat exposure

Burn Classification:

Degree	Depth	Treatment
First	Epidermis only	Minor, heals without scarring
Second	Epidermis and dermis	May scar, may need grafting
Third	Full thickness	Requires skin grafts, permanent scarring
Fourth	Through skin to muscle/bone	Multiple surgeries, amputation may be required

Long-Term Consequences:

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

Internal Organ Damage

Common Internal Injuries:

• Liver laceration or rupture
• Spleen damage requiring removal
• Kidney damage
• Lung contusion or collapse (pneumothorax)
• Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
• Bowel and intestinal damage

Why Dangerous:

• May not show immediate symptoms
• Internal bleeding can be life-threatening
• Requires emergency surgery
• Organ removal affects long-term health

Wrongful Death

When a Trucking Accident Kills:

Wrongful death claims allow surviving family members to recover compensation when a loved one is killed by another’s negligence.

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim in Florida:

• Surviving spouse
• Children (minor and adult)
• Parents (especially if no spouse or children)
• Estate representative

Types of Claims:

• Wrongful Death Action: Compensation for survivors’ losses
• Survival Action: Compensation for decedent’s pain/suffering before death

Damages Available:

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

Settlement Range: Wrongful death cases in trucking accidents typically range from $1,910,000 to $9,520,000+, with higher awards for younger victims with dependents and for cases involving egregious negligence.

Florida’s Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations: Two years from the date of death. But waiting is dangerous—evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and the trucking company builds its defense. Contact us immediately if you’ve lost a loved one in an Orange County trucking accident.

Insurance Coverage: Why Trucking Cases Are Worth More

Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance far exceeding typical auto policies. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills and financial ruin.

But accessing these policies requires knowing how trucking law works. That’s where 25 years of experience matters.

Federal Minimum Liability Limits

Cargo Type	Minimum Coverage
Non-Hazardous Freight (10,001+ lbs GVWR)	$750,000
Oil/Petroleum (10,001+ lbs GVWR)	$1,000,000
Large Equipment (10,001+ lbs GVWR)	$1,000,000
Hazardous Materials (All)	$5,000,000
Passengers (16+ passengers)	$5,000,000
Passengers (15 or fewer)	$1,500,000

Why This Matters for Your Orange County Case

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, and some carry excess policies above those limits.

This higher coverage means:

• Catastrophic injuries can be fully compensated
• Lifetime care costs can be covered
• Families who’ve lost breadwinners can recover lost future income
• Punitive damages may be available in egregious cases

But insurance companies don’t pay these limits willingly. They hire adjusters trained to minimize claims, delay settlements, and deny coverage whenever possible. They hope you don’t know what your case is worth—or that you’ll accept a quick settlement before you understand the full extent of your injuries.

That’s why you need Attorney911. Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years INSIDE the system. He watched adjusters minimize claims. He saw how they train their people to lowball victims. Now he exposes those tactics and uses his insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation.

We know every trick insurance companies play. We know when they’re bluffing and when they’ll pay. And we know how to build cases that force them to offer fair settlements—or face us in court.

Types of Damages Recoverable

Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):

Category	What’s Included
Medical Expenses	Past, present, and future medical costs
Lost Wages	Income lost due to injury and recovery
Lost Earning Capacity	Reduction in future earning ability
Property Damage	Vehicle repair or replacement
Out-of-Pocket Expenses	Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications
Life Care Costs	Ongoing care for catastrophic injuries

Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life):

Category	What’s Included
Pain and Suffering	Physical pain from injuries
Mental Anguish	Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression
Loss of Enjoyment	Inability to participate in activities
Disfigurement	Scarring, visible injuries
Loss of Consortium	Impact on marriage/family relationships
Physical Impairment	Reduced physical capabilities

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
• Fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence)

Florida’s Approach to Damages:

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

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

Florida has NO cap on compensatory damages for personal injury cases, including trucking accidents. This means your full economic and non-economic damages are recoverable without arbitrary limits.

Florida does have a punitive damages cap: the greater of three times compensatory damages or $500,000. However, this cap does not apply in cases of intentional misconduct or when the defendant was motivated by unreasonable financial gain.

Florida’s Statute of Limitations:

• Personal injury: 4 years from the date of accident (longer than most states)
• Wrongful death: 2 years from the date of death

But waiting is dangerous. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and the trucking company builds its defense. Contact us immediately to protect your rights.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Orange County Trucking Accident Case

You’ve been hurt. You’re facing medical bills, lost income, and an uncertain future. The trucking company has teams of lawyers protecting them. You need someone protecting you.

Here’s why Orange County families choose Attorney911:

25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Ralph Manginello has been holding trucking companies accountable since 1998. He’s seen every tactic they use. He knows how they hide evidence, pressure victims, and minimize claims. And he knows how to beat them.

Ralph is admitted to federal court in the Southern District of Texas, giving him the ability to handle complex interstate trucking cases that require federal jurisdiction. He’s litigated against Fortune 500 corporations, including BP in the Texas City refinery explosion litigation that killed 15 workers and injured 170 more. That experience—taking on the world’s largest corporations and winning—translates directly to your trucking accident case.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Your Side

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working at a national insurance defense firm. He watched adjusters minimize claims. He saw how they train their people to lowball victims. He learned their formulas, their tactics, their pressure points.

Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight FOR you, not against you. He knows when the insurance company is bluffing and when they’ll pay. He recognizes their manipulation tactics immediately. And he counters every strategy they use against you.

This is your unfair advantage. While other firms are learning the insurance playbook, we’ve got someone who wrote it.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

We don’t just talk about results—we deliver them. Our documented settlements include:

Case Type	Settlement	Details
Traumatic Brain Injury	$5+ Million	Logging accident, falling log
Car Accident + Amputation	$3.8+ Million	Staph infection during treatment
Maritime Back Injury	$2+ Million	Lifting cargo on vessel
Commercial Truck Crash	$2.5+ Million	Truck crash recovery
Multiple Wrongful Death Cases	Millions	Fatal 18-wheeler accidents

Total firm recoveries: $50+ million for Texas and Florida families.

These aren’t just numbers. They represent lives rebuilt, families supported, and justice secured. They represent the resources our clients need for medical care, rehabilitation, and dignified lives after catastrophic injury.

4.9-Star Client Satisfaction

Our clients’ words matter more than ours. Here’s what they say:

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

“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.” — Donald Wilcox

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” — Glenda Walker

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

“I lost everything… 1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.” — Kiimarii Yup

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

251+ Google reviews. 4.9-star average. These aren’t just numbers—they’re families whose lives we helped rebuild.

Three Office Locations, Serving Orange County and Beyond

With offices in Houston (main), Austin, and Beaumont, we serve trucking accident victims across Texas and Florida. For Orange County clients, we offer:

• Remote consultations via phone and video
• Travel to Orange County for case investigation and client meetings
• Coordination with local medical providers and experts
• Full federal court capability for interstate cases

Distance is never a barrier to getting the representation you deserve.

Contingency Fee: No Fee Unless We Win

We work on contingency. You pay nothing upfront. We advance all investigation costs, expert fees, and litigation expenses. You never receive a bill from us. Our fee—standard 33.33% pre-trial, 40% if trial is necessary—comes only from your recovery, not your pocket.

If we don’t win, you owe us nothing. This is our commitment to making justice accessible to every Orange County family, regardless of financial circumstances.

Hablamos Español: Lupe Peña, Fluent Spanish Representation

Orange County’s Hispanic community deserves direct legal representation without language barriers. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation—no interpreters needed, no meaning lost in translation.

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

The 15 Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents: What Orange County Drivers Face

Not all trucking accidents are the same. Each type involves different causes, different liable parties, and different legal strategies. At Attorney911, we’ve handled them all. Here’s what you need to know about each accident type—and why Orange County’s unique geography makes certain accidents more likely.

1. Jackknife Accidents

What It Is: 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.

Why It Happens in Orange County: I-4’s construction zones create sudden braking situations. The combination of tourist traffic unfamiliar with lane shifts, wet afternoon thunderstorms, and trucks entering from on-ramps with inadequate merging distance creates jackknife conditions. The I-4/I-95 interchange is particularly dangerous, with trucks often braking suddenly for congested traffic.

Common Causes:

• Sudden or improper braking, especially on wet roads
• Speeding, particularly on curves or in adverse conditions
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing)
• Improperly loaded or unbalanced cargo
• Brake system failures or worn brakes
• Driver inexperience with emergency maneuvers

FMCSA Violations: 49 CFR § 393.48 (brake system malfunction), § 393.100 (improper cargo securement), § 392.6 (speeding for conditions)

Injuries: Multi-vehicle pileups, TBI, spinal cord injuries, crushing injuries, fatalities

2. Rollover Accidents

What It Is: 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.

Why It Happens in Orange County: The ramps and interchanges throughout Orange County—particularly the I-4 Ultimate construction zone with its temporary, narrow lanes—create rollover risks. Trucks taking the curved ramps between I-4 and the Florida Turnpike often travel too fast for the banked curves. Tanker trucks carrying fuel or chemicals to and from Port Canaveral face particular rollover risks from liquid cargo “slosh” that shifts the center of gravity.

Common Causes:

• Speeding on curves, ramps, or turns
• Taking turns too sharply at excessive speed
• Improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo
• Liquid cargo “slosh” shifting center of gravity
• Overcorrection after tire blowout or lane departure
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reaction

FMCSA Violations: 49 CFR § 393.100-136 (cargo securement violations), § 392.6 (exceeding safe speed), § 392.3 (operating while fatigued)

Injuries: Crushing injuries, multi-vehicle involvement, fuel fires causing severe burns, TBI, spinal cord injuries, fatalities

3. Underride Collisions

What It Is: 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.

Why It Happens in Orange County: The dense traffic on I-4 and the Florida Turnpike creates constant stop-and-go conditions where rear underride accidents occur. Side underride accidents happen frequently at the complex interchanges where trucks make wide turns across multiple lanes—particularly dangerous for smaller vehicles in the truck’s extensive blind spots. The lack of mandatory side underride guards means these accidents remain devastatingly common.

Statistics:

• 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

Types:

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

Common Causes:

• Inadequate or missing underride guards
• Worn or damaged rear impact guards
• Truck sudden stops without adequate warning
• Low visibility conditions (night, fog, rain)
• Truck lane changes into blind spots
• Wide right turns cutting off traffic
• Inadequate rear lighting or reflectors

FMCSA/NHTSA Requirements:

• 49 CFR § 393.86 – Rear impact guards required on trailers manufactured after 1/26/1998
• Guards must prevent underride at 30 mph impact
• NO FEDERAL REQUIREMENT for side underride guards (advocacy ongoing)

Injuries: Decapitation, severe head and neck trauma, death of all vehicle occupants, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord severance. These accidents are almost always fatal or catastrophic.

4. Rear-End Collisions

What It Is: An 18-wheeler strikes the back of another vehicle or a vehicle strikes the back of a truck. Due to the truck’s massive weight and longer stopping distances, these accidents cause devastating injuries.

Why It Happens in Orange County: The stop-and-go traffic on I-4 through downtown Orlando, the sudden braking for tourist traffic near the attractions, and the congestion at the I-4/I-95 interchange create constant rear-end collision risks. Trucks following too closely on the Florida Turnpike—where speed limits are higher and traffic moves faster—often can’t stop in time when traffic suddenly slows.

Statistics:

• 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

Common Causes:

• Following too closely (tailgating)
• Driver distraction (cell phone, dispatch communications)
• Driver fatigue and delayed reaction
• Excessive speed for traffic conditions
• Brake failures from poor maintenance
• Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)

FMCSA Violations: 49 CFR § 392.11 (following too closely), § 392.3 (operating while fatigued), § 392.82 (mobile phone use), § 393.48 (brake system deficiencies)

Injuries: Severe rear-end collision injuries, multi-vehicle pileups, TBI from high-speed impact, spinal cord injuries, wrongful death, crushing injuries

5. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

What It Is: 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.

Why It Happens in Orange County: The tight intersections throughout Orange County’s commercial districts—particularly along International Drive, Orange Blossom Trail, and the numerous shopping centers—force trucks to make wide turns in confined spaces. Tourists unfamiliar with truck maneuvering patterns often don’t recognize the danger of entering the gap. The mix of local delivery trucks, long-haul semis, and passenger vehicles creates constant conflict points.

Why Trucks Make Wide Turns:

• 18-wheelers need significant space to complete turns
• Trailer tracks inside the path of the cab
• Drivers must swing wide to avoid curbs, signs, or buildings

Common Causes:

• 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
• Poor intersection design forcing wide turns

FMCSA Violations: 49 CFR § 392.11 (unsafe lane changes), § 392.2 (failure to obey traffic signals), state traffic law violations for improper turns

Injuries: Crushing injuries from being caught between truck and curb/building, sideswipe injuries, pedestrian and cyclist fatalities, TBI, amputations

6. Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)

What It Is: A truck changes lanes or maneuvers without seeing a vehicle in one of its four major blind spots (No-Zones).

Why It Happens in Orange County: The dense, multi-lane traffic on I-4 and the Florida Turnpike requires constant lane changes. Trucks moving between the numerous exits and entrances along these corridors—particularly near the attractions, the airport, and the distribution centers—must navigate through streams of smaller vehicles. The right-side blind spot, largest and most dangerous, is particularly hazardous when trucks exit to service the commercial areas along International Drive or Orange Blossom Trail.

The Four No-Zones:

Zone	Location	Danger Level
Front No-Zone	20 feet directly in front of cab	Driver cannot see low vehicles
Rear No-Zone	30 feet behind 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	MOST DANGEROUS

Statistics:

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

Common Causes:

• 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
• Failure to use turn signals allowing other drivers to anticipate

FMCSA Requirements: 49 CFR § 393.80 – Mirrors must provide clear view to rear on both sides; proper mirror adjustment is part of driver pre-trip inspection

Injuries: Sideswipe injuries causing vehicle loss of control, rollover of passenger vehicle, crushing injuries, ejection from vehicle, TBI, spinal injuries

7. Tire Blowout Accidents

What It Is: 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.

Why It Happens in Orange County: Florida’s extreme summer heat—regularly exceeding 95°F with high humidity—creates perfect conditions for tire failure. The heat buildup on long stretches of I-4 and the Florida Turnpike, combined with heavy tourist traffic that forces constant braking, stresses tires beyond their limits. The numerous distribution centers in Orange County mean trucks are often fully loaded, putting maximum weight on tires that may be improperly maintained.

Statistics:

• 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

Common Causes:

• 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
• Inadequate pre-trip tire inspections

FMCSA Requirements: 49 CFR § 393.75 (tire requirements—tread depth, condition), § 396.13 (pre-trip inspection must include tire check); minimum tread depth: 4/32″ on steer tires, 2/32″ on other positions

Injuries: Resulting jackknife or rollover causes catastrophic injuries; tire debris strikes following vehicles causing windshield impacts, loss of control; TBI, facial trauma, wrongful death

8. Brake Failure Accidents

What It Is: An 18-wheeler’s braking system fails or underperforms, preventing the driver from stopping in time to avoid a collision.

Why It Happens in Orange County: The combination of flat terrain and heavy traffic creates unique brake stress. Drivers on I-4 face constant stop-and-go conditions that heat brakes repeatedly. The long, straight stretches of the Florida Turnpike encourage excessive speeds, requiring harder braking when traffic suddenly slows. Summer thunderstorms create sudden wet conditions where poorly maintained brakes fail completely. And the pressure to meet delivery schedules at Orange County’s numerous distribution centers leads to deferred maintenance that puts dangerous trucks on the road.

Statistics:

• 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

Common Causes:

• 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
• Deferred maintenance to save costs

FMCSA Requirements: 49 CFR § 393.40-55 (brake system requirements), § 396.3 (systematic inspection and maintenance), § 396.11 (driver post-trip report of brake condition); air brake pushrod travel limits specified

Injuries: Severe rear-end collision injuries, multi-vehicle pileups, TBI from high-speed impact, spinal cord injuries, wrongful death, crushing injuries

9. Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents

What It Is: Improperly secured cargo falls from a truck, shifts during transport causing instability, or spills onto the roadway.

Why It Happens in Orange County: Our county’s economy depends on moving goods. The massive distribution centers—Amazon’s facilities near Orlando International Airport, Walmart’s regional complex, the countless smaller operations—generate constant truck traffic carrying every type of cargo. Container trucks from Port Canaveral carry loads that may have been secured by workers unfamiliar with Florida’s specific requirements. The pressure to meet delivery windows at theme parks, hotels, and retail operations leads to rushed loading. And Florida’s sudden thunderstorms can turn a marginally secured load into a deadly projectile.

Statistics:

• 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

Types:

• Cargo Shift: Load moves during transit, destabilizing truck
• Cargo Spill: Load falls from truck onto roadway
• Hazmat Spill: Hazardous materials leak or spill, creating additional dangers

Common Causes:

• 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
• Loose tarps allowing cargo shift

FMCSA Requirements: 49 CFR § 393.100-136 (complete cargo securement standards); working load limits for tiedowns specified; specific requirements by cargo type (logs, metal coils, machinery, etc.)

Injuries: Vehicles struck by falling cargo, chain-reaction accidents from spilled loads, hazmat exposure injuries, rollover injuries when cargo shifts

10. Head-On Collisions

What It Is: An 18-wheeler crosses into oncoming traffic and strikes vehicles traveling in the opposite direction.

Why It Happens in Orange County: The divided highways throughout Orange County—I-4, the Florida Turnpike, State Road 408—create high-speed, high-consequence environments where head-on collisions are devastating. Driver fatigue from long hauls ending in our distribution centers, distraction from GPS navigation in unfamiliar territory, and medical emergencies in our heat all contribute to lane departures. The concrete barriers in many construction zones leave no room for error—when a truck crosses the centerline, collision is inevitable.

Statistics:

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

Common Causes:

• Driver fatigue causing lane departure
• Driver falling asleep at the wheel
• Driver distraction (phone, GPS, dispatch)
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
• Medical emergency (heart attack, seizure)
• Overcorrection after running off road
• Passing on two-lane roads
• Wrong-way entry onto divided highways

FMCSA Violations: 49 CFR § 395 (hours of service violations), § 392.3 (operating while fatigued), § 392.4/5 (drug or alcohol violations), § 392.82 (mobile phone use)

Injuries: Catastrophic injuries or death are common. The closing speed combines both vehicles’ velocities. TBI, spinal cord injuries, internal organ damage, amputations, crushing injuries, wrongful death.

11. T-Bone/Intersection Accidents

What It Is: A truck fails to yield or runs a red light, striking another vehicle broadside.

Why It Happens in Orange County: Orange County’s major commercial corridors—International Drive, Orange Blossom Trail, Sand Lake Road, Kirkman Road—feature dozens of high-volume intersections where trucks and passenger vehicles conflict. The pressure to meet delivery schedules at our hotels, theme parks, and distribution centers leads to red-light running. The size of trucks creates “blocking the box” situations where trucks are trapped in intersections when lights change, creating T-bone risks for cross traffic. And the complexity of turn lanes at major intersections—particularly near the Mall at Millenia and the Orlando International Premium Outlets—creates confusion that leads to failure-to-yield accidents.

Common Causes:

• Running red lights to meet delivery schedules
• Failure to yield on left turns
• “Blocking the box”—truck trapped in intersection
• Obstructed sightlines at complex intersections
• Driver distraction or fatigue
• Inadequate signal timing for truck clearance

FMCSA Violations: 49 CFR § 392.2 (failure to obey traffic control devices), § 392.3 (fatigue), § 392.82 (distraction)

Injuries: Side-impact injuries to drivers and passengers, TBI from lateral impact, spinal injuries, internal organ damage from door intrusion, fatalities

12. Sideswipe Accidents

What It Is: A truck changes lanes into occupied space, striking another vehicle.

Why It Happens in Orange County: The multi-lane highways throughout Orange County—I-4’s six to eight lanes, the Florida Turnpike’s wide corridors—create constant lane-changing environments. Trucks moving between the numerous exits serving our attractions, hotels, and distribution centers must navigate through streams of passenger vehicles. The right-side blind spot—largest and most dangerous—creates particular risk when trucks move right to exit for destinations like Disney Springs, Universal Orlando, or the Orange County Convention Center. Tourist traffic unfamiliar with local patterns, rental car drivers distracted by GPS navigation, and the general density of our roads create the perfect environment for sideswipe accidents.

Common Causes:

• 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
• Failure to use turn signals allowing other drivers to anticipate

FMCSA Requirements: 49 CFR § 393.80 – Mirrors must provide clear view to rear on both sides; proper mirror adjustment is part of driver pre-trip inspection

Injuries: Sideswipe injuries causing vehicle loss of control, rollover of passenger vehicle, crushing injuries, ejection from vehicle, TBI, spinal injuries

13. Override Accidents

What It Is: A truck drives over a smaller vehicle in front, often occurring when the truck fails to stop in time.

Why It Happens in Orange County: The high-speed, high-density traffic on Orange County’s major highways creates constant override risks. When traffic suddenly slows on I-4 near the attractions, on the Florida Turnpike approaching toll plazas, or on State Road 408 near downtown Orlando, trucks that are following too closely or traveling too fast cannot stop in time. The flat terrain that makes our region attractive for distribution also means trucks can maintain higher speeds, increasing the energy of override collisions. And the prevalence of smaller vehicles—compact cars popular with tourists, motorcycles enjoying Florida’s weather—means the vehicles being overridden offer little protection.

Common Causes:

• Following too closely for truck’s stopping distance
• Excessive speed for traffic conditions
• Driver fatigue slowing reaction time
• Distracted driving missing traffic slowdown
• Brake failure or inadequate braking
• Impaired driving

FMCSA Violations: 49 CFR § 392.11 (following too closely), § 392.3 (fatigue), § 392.82 (distraction), § 393.48 (brake failure)

Injuries: Catastrophic crushing injuries, decapitation, severe head trauma, spinal cord severance, immediate death

14. Lost Wheel/Detached Trailer Accidents

What It Is: A wheel or trailer separates from the truck during operation, often striking other vehicles with fatal results.

Why It Happens in Orange County: The combination of high-speed highways and dense traffic creates devastating consequences when wheels or trailers detach. The vibration from Florida’s concrete highways, the heat stress on components in our summer temperatures, and the constant stop-and-go of our congested roads all contribute to mechanical failures. The prevalence of older trucks in some segments of our logistics industry—vehicles that may have deferred maintenance—increases the risk. And when a wheel or trailer comes loose on I-4 at 70 mph, or on the Florida Turnpike with traffic in all lanes, there’s nowhere for other drivers to go.

Common Causes:

• Wheel bearing failure from inadequate maintenance
• Improper wheel installation or torque
• Trailer coupling failure
• Frame or suspension cracks
• Inadequate inspection procedures
• Use of worn or damaged components

FMCSA Violations: 49 CFR § 396.3 (systematic maintenance), § 396.11 (inspection requirements), § 393.75 (wheel requirements)

Injuries: Catastrophic impact injuries, multi-vehicle pileups, fatalities, severe trauma from debris

15. Runaway Truck Accidents

What It Is: Brake fade on long descents causes loss of braking ability, or the driver fails to use runaway truck ramps.

Why It Happens in Orange County: While Orange County’s terrain is generally flat, the approach to the Lake County line on I-4 westbound features a significant downgrade that surprises drivers unfamiliar with the route. Trucks descending this grade with hot brakes from Orlando traffic face brake fade risks. More significantly, trucks entering Orange County from northern routes—having descended grades in Georgia or the Carolins—may arrive with already-compromised braking systems. The flat terrain that follows can give drivers false confidence, leading them to skip inspection stops and miss warning signs of brake problems.

Common Causes:

• Brake overheating from prolonged braking
• Inadequate use of engine braking
• Failure to downshift appropriately
• Overloading beyond brake capacity
• Inadequate driver training on mountain/grade driving
• Failure to use runaway truck ramps when available

FMCSA Violations: 49 CFR § 392.6 (speeding for conditions), § 393.40-55 (brake system requirements), § 396.3 (maintenance)

Injuries: High-speed collisions at bottom of grades, multi-vehicle pileups, fatalities, catastrophic trauma

Your Rights Under Florida Law: What Orange County Trucking Accident Victims Need to Know

Florida law provides important protections for trucking accident victims, but it also imposes strict deadlines and rules that can bar recovery if not followed. At Attorney911, we ensure our Orange County clients understand their rights and meet every legal requirement.

Florida’s Statute of Limitations

Personal Injury: 4 years from the date of accident

This is longer than most states—Texas, for example, allows only 2 years. But waiting is still dangerous. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and the trucking company builds its defense.

Wrongful Death: 2 years from the date of death

This shorter deadline applies when a trucking accident kills a loved one. The clock starts at death, not the accident date—important when victims survive initially but later succumb to injuries.

Government Claims: Special rules apply

If a government entity contributed to your accident—dangerous road design, inadequate signage, failure to maintain roads—you may face notice requirements as short as 6 months. These claims are complex and require immediate attention.

Florida’s Comparative Negligence System

Florida recently changed its negligence law. As of 2023, Florida follows a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar.

What This Means:

Your Fault Percentage	Your Recovery
0%	100% of damages
25%	75% of damages
50%	50% of damages
51% or more	$0—you recover nothing

Practical Impact:

If you’re found 20% at fault for an accident with $1 million in damages, you recover $800,000. But if you’re found 51% at fault, you recover nothing—even if the trucking company was clearly negligent.

This makes proving the trucking company’s fault critical. The trucking company and their insurance will try to shift blame to you. We fight back with evidence: ECM data, ELD logs, witness statements, and accident reconstruction.

Florida’s Damage Caps (or Lack Thereof)

Good News: No Cap on Compensatory Damages

Florida does NOT limit the economic and non-economic damages you can recover in a trucking accident case. Your full medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life are all recoverable without arbitrary caps.

Punitive Damages: Limited But Available

Florida caps punitive damages at the greater of:

• Three times compensatory damages, OR
• $500,000

However, this cap does NOT apply if:

• The defendant was motivated by unreasonable financial gain (putting profits over safety)
• The defendant intended to cause harm

In trucking cases, we often find evidence that companies knowingly put dangerous drivers on the road, ignored maintenance problems, or falsified hours of service records to meet delivery deadlines. This can support punitive damages that punish the company and deter future misconduct.

Florida-Specific Trucking Regulations

Beyond federal FMCSA regulations, Florida imposes additional requirements on commercial trucks:

Weight Limits: Florida strictly enforces weight limits on its highways. Overweight trucks cause excessive road damage and are more prone to accidents. The Florida Department of Transportation operates weigh stations, but trucks often bypass these or operate overweight between inspections.

Hazmat Routes: Florida designates specific routes for hazardous materials transportation. Violations of these route restrictions can create liability when hazmat accidents occur in prohibited areas.

Toll Violations: Florida’s extensive toll system creates unique issues. Trucks that violate toll requirements may be operating outside authorized routes, creating additional liability.

At Attorney911, we understand both federal and Florida-specific regulations. We know how to use violations of either to prove negligence and maximize your recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions: Orange County 18-Wheeler Accident Victims

Immediate After-Accident Questions

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

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Orange County, take these steps immediately if you’re able:

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
• Document the scene with photos and video if possible
• Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
• Collect witness contact information
• Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
• 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. Orange County hospitals and trauma centers—Orlando Regional Medical Center, AdventHealth Orlando, Nemours Children’s Hospital—can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

What information should I collect at the truck accident scene in Orange County?

Document everything possible:

• Truck and trailer license plates
• DOT number (on truck door)
• Trucking company name and logo
• Driver’s name, CDL number, and contact info
• Photos of all vehicle damage
• Photos of the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks
• Photos of your injuries
• Witness names and phone numbers
• Responding officer’s name and badge number
• Weather and road conditions

Trucking Company & Driver Questions

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Orange County?

Multiple parties may be liable in trucking accidents:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company/motor carrier
• The cargo owner or shipper
• The company that loaded the cargo
• Truck or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers
• The truck owner (if different from carrier)
• 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 the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for:

• Negligent hiring (hiring unqualified drivers)
• Negligent training (inadequate safety training)
• Negligent supervision (failing to monitor driver behavior)
• Negligent maintenance (poor vehicle upkeep)

What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?

Florida uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation—as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs—the data tells the true story.

Evidence & Investigation Questions

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

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

• Speed before and during the crash
• Brake application timing
• Engine RPM and throttle position
• Whether cruise control was engaged
• GPS location

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

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

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

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

Legal Process Questions

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

Florida gives you 4 years from the date of accident to file a personal injury lawsuit—longer than most states. For wrongful death, you have 2 years from the date of death. But waiting is dangerous. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and the trucking company builds its defense. We recommend contacting an attorney within days, not months.

How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

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

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

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

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 Now: Your Orange County Trucking 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 may already be at the accident scene, gathering evidence to protect their interests.

What are you doing?

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

We move faster. When you call Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within hours to preserve critical evidence. We deploy investigators to the scene. We start building your case immediately—because we know the trucking company is already building theirs.

The Attorney911 Advantage

What We Bring	What It Means for You
25+ years experience	Ralph Manginello has seen every trucking company tactic and knows how to counter it
Former insurance defense attorney	Lupe Peña knows how adjusters evaluate claims—now he uses that knowledge for you
Multi-million dollar results	We’ve recovered $50+ million for families—documented, verifiable results
Federal court experience	We can handle complex interstate cases that require federal jurisdiction
24/7 availability	Trucking accidents don’t wait for business hours—neither do we
Contingency fee	You pay nothing unless we win—zero risk to you
Spanish services	Lupe Peña provides fluent Spanish representation—no interpreters needed

What Our Clients Say

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

“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.” — Donald Wilcox

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” — Glenda Walker

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

Call Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

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

The trucking company has lawyers. So should you. Don’t let them push you around. Don’t let them minimize your claim. Don’t let them get away with putting dangerous drivers and dangerous trucks on Orange County roads.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. Or reach us at (713) 528-9070. Email ralph@atty911.com. Visit attorney911.com.

Your fight starts with one call. We answer. We fight. We win.

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

Attorney911 / The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC
Managing Partner: Ralph P. Manginello, 25+ years experience
Associate Attorney: Lupe E. Peña, former insurance defense
Offices: Houston (main), Austin, Beaumont
Serving Orange County, Florida and nationwide
1-888-ATTY-911 | ralph@atty911.com | attorney911.com