18-Wheeler & Trucking Accident Attorneys in Clarke County, Georgia
When 80,000 Pounds Changes Everything: Your Fight Starts Here
The impact was catastrophic. One moment you’re driving through Clarke County on your way to work, to pick up your kids, to live your life. The next, an 80,000-pound truck is jackknifing across three lanes, or slamming into your vehicle from behind, or rolling over and crushing everything in its path.
If you’re reading this, you or someone you love has been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident in Clarke County, Georgia. You’re not alone—and you don’t have to fight this battle alone.
At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years standing up to trucking companies and winning. Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s admitted to federal court, has litigated against Fortune 500 corporations, and has recovered multi-million dollar settlements for families just like yours. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance companies—now he fights against them. That’s your advantage.
Every 16 minutes, someone in America is injured in a commercial truck crash. While the national average is one truck crash injury every 16 minutes, Clarke County’s position along major trucking corridors makes this area particularly vulnerable. The trucking company that hit you has already called their lawyers. Their insurance adjuster is already looking for ways to pay you less. What are you doing?
Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. Free consultation. 24/7 availability.
Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in Clarke County Are Different
The Physics of Devastation
An 18-wheeler isn’t just a big car. It’s a 20-25 ton missile traveling at highway speeds. The physics are brutal:
- Weight disparity: Your car weighs 4,000 pounds. The truck that hit you? 80,000 pounds. That’s not a fair fight.
- Stopping distance: An 80,000-pound truck traveling at 65 mph needs 525 feet to stop. That’s nearly two football fields. A car needs about 300 feet.
- Impact force: Force equals mass times acceleration. An 80,000-pound truck carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a car.
When that energy transfers to your vehicle, catastrophic injuries are the norm, not the exception.
Clarke County’s Trucking Landscape
Clarke County sits in northeast Georgia, part of the Athens-Clarke County unified government. The area is crisscrossed by major trucking corridors that bring massive commercial vehicle traffic through our community:
I-85 runs just south of Clarke County, serving as a primary north-south freight corridor connecting Atlanta to Charlotte and beyond. This interstate carries enormous volumes of truck traffic, including time-sensitive freight and hazardous materials.
I-20 passes through the region, providing east-west connectivity from Atlanta to Augusta and the South Carolina border. This corridor serves manufacturing distribution, retail logistics, and port traffic moving between the Port of Savannah and inland distribution centers.
US-78 and US-29 serve as significant arterial routes through Clarke County itself, connecting Athens to surrounding communities and carrying substantial commercial traffic. These routes see significant truck volume serving local industry, agriculture, and the University of Georgia.
Georgia State Route 10 Loop (Athens Perimeter) encircles the urban core, handling substantial commuter and commercial traffic. This loop experiences congestion that creates dangerous interactions between passenger vehicles and large trucks.
The convergence of these routes creates particular risk zones where truck traffic density increases accident probability. The Athens area’s growth as a logistics hub—serving the University of Georgia, regional healthcare facilities, and expanding retail distribution—has increased commercial vehicle presence on local roads.
Weather conditions in Clarke County also contribute to trucking hazards. Georgia’s humid subtropical climate brings heavy summer thunderstorms that reduce visibility and create hydroplaning risks. Winter ice storms, while less frequent, can paralyze roadways and create treacherous conditions for trucks unaccustomed to such weather. Spring and fall fog along river valleys and low-lying areas creates additional visibility challenges.
The combination of high truck volume, complex highway interchanges, variable weather, and the inherent dangers of 80,000-pound vehicles sharing roads with passenger cars makes Clarke County a high-risk area for catastrophic trucking accidents.
Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents We Handle in Clarke County
Jackknife Accidents
A jackknife occurs when the trailer and cab skid in opposite directions, with the trailer folding at an angle similar to a pocket knife. The trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often sweeping across multiple lanes of traffic.
Jackknife accidents account for approximately 10% of all trucking-related deaths. They often result in multi-vehicle pileups when the trailer blocks multiple lanes. Once a jackknife begins, it’s nearly impossible for nearby drivers to avoid.
Common causes include sudden or improper braking (especially on wet or icy roads), speeding on curves or in adverse conditions, empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing), improperly loaded or unbalanced cargo, brake system failures, driver inexperience with emergency maneuvers, and slippery road surfaces without speed reduction.
We gather skid mark analysis showing trailer angle, brake inspection records and maintenance logs, weather conditions at time of accident, ELD data showing speed before braking, ECM data for brake application timing, and cargo manifest and loading records.
FMCSA violations often present include 49 CFR § 393.48 (brake system malfunction), 49 CFR § 393.100 (improper cargo securement), and 49 CFR § 392.6 (speeding for conditions).
Multiple vehicle involvement often leads to TBI, spinal cord injuries, crushing injuries, and wrongful death. Vehicles struck by the swinging trailer experience catastrophic impact forces.
Rollover Accidents
A rollover occurs when an 18-wheeler tips onto its side or roof. Due to the truck’s high center of gravity and massive weight (up to 80,000 lbs), rollovers are among the most catastrophic trucking accidents.
Approximately 50% of rollover crashes result from failure to adjust speed on curves. Rollovers frequently lead to secondary crashes from debris and fuel spills. They’re often fatal or cause catastrophic injuries to both truck occupants and other vehicles.
Common causes include speeding on curves, ramps, or turns; taking turns too sharply at excessive speed; improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo; liquid cargo “slosh” shifting center of gravity; overcorrection after tire blowout or lane departure; driver fatigue causing delayed reaction; and road design defects (inadequate banking on curves).
We gather ECM data for speed through curve, cargo manifest and securement documentation, load distribution records, driver training records on rollover prevention, road geometry and signage analysis, and witness statements on truck speed.
FMCSA violations often present include 49 CFR § 393.100-136 (cargo securement violations), 49 CFR § 392.6 (exceeding safe speed), and 49 CFR § 392.3 (operating while fatigued).
Crushed vehicles beneath trailer, multiple vehicle involvement, fuel fires causing severe burns, TBI from impact, spinal cord injuries, and wrongful death are common injuries.
Underride Collisions
An underride collision occurs when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of an 18-wheeler and slides underneath the trailer. The trailer height often causes the smaller vehicle’s passenger compartment to be sheared off at windshield level.
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 include rear underride (vehicle strikes back of trailer, often at intersections or during sudden stops) and side underride (vehicle impacts side of trailer during lane changes, turns, or at intersections).
Common causes include 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, and inadequate rear lighting or reflectors.
We gather underride guard inspection and maintenance records, rear lighting compliance documentation, crash dynamics showing underride depth, guard installation and certification records, visibility conditions at accident scene, and post-crash guard deformation analysis.
FMCSA/NHTSA requirements include 49 CFR § 393.86 (rear impact guards required on trailers manufactured after 1/26/1998), guards must prevent underride at 30 mph impact, and NO FEDERAL REQUIREMENT for side underride guards (advocacy ongoing).
Decapitation, severe head and neck trauma, death of all vehicle occupants, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord severance are common. These accidents are almost always fatal or catastrophic.
Rear-End Collisions
A rear-end collision occurs when an 18-wheeler strikes the back of another vehicle or when a vehicle strikes the back of a truck. Due to the truck’s massive weight and longer stopping distances, these accidents cause devastating injuries.
18-wheelers require 20-40% more stopping distance than passenger vehicles. A fully loaded truck at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to stop (nearly two football fields). Rear-end collisions are the second most common type of large truck crash.
Common causes include 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, and impaired driving (drugs, alcohol).
We gather ECM data showing following distance and speed, ELD data for driver fatigue analysis, cell phone records for distraction evidence, brake inspection and maintenance records, dashcam footage (if available), and traffic conditions and speed limits.
FMCSA violations often present include 49 CFR § 392.11 (following too closely), 49 CFR § 392.3 (operating while fatigued), 49 CFR § 392.82 (mobile phone use), and 49 CFR § 393.48 (brake system deficiencies).
Whiplash, spinal cord injuries, TBI from impact, internal organ damage, crushing injuries when vehicle is pushed into other objects, and wrongful death are common injuries.
Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)
Wide turn accidents occur when an 18-wheeler swings wide (often to the left) before making a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing or striking the vehicle that entered the gap.
18-wheelers need significant space to complete turns. The trailer tracks inside the path of the cab. Drivers must swing wide to avoid curbs, signs, or buildings.
Common causes include failure to properly signal turning intention, inadequate mirror checks before and during turn, improper turn technique (swinging too early or too wide), driver inexperience with trailer tracking, failure to yield right-of-way when completing turn, and poor intersection design forcing wide turns.
We gather turn signal activation data from ECM, mirror condition and adjustment records, driver training records on turning procedures, intersection geometry analysis, witness statements on turn execution, and surveillance camera footage from nearby businesses.
FMCSA violations often present include 49 CFR § 392.11 (unsafe lane changes), 49 CFR § 392.2 (failure to obey traffic signals), and state traffic law violations for improper turns.
Crushing injuries from being caught between truck and curb/building, sideswipe injuries, pedestrian and cyclist fatalities, TBI, and amputations are common injuries.
Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)
Blind spot accidents occur when an 18-wheeler changes lanes or maneuvers without seeing a vehicle in one of its four major blind spots (No-Zones).
The Four No-Zones include: front No-Zone (20 feet directly in front of the cab – driver cannot see low vehicles), rear No-Zone (30 feet behind the trailer – no rear-view mirror visibility), left side No-Zone (extends from cab door backward – smaller than right side), and right side No-Zone (extends from cab door backward, much larger than left – MOST DANGEROUS).
Right-side blind spot accidents are especially dangerous due to larger blind spot area. Many blind spot accidents occur during lane changes on highways.
Common causes include failure to check mirrors before lane changes, improperly adjusted or damaged mirrors, inadequate mirror checking during sustained maneuvers, driver distraction during lane changes, driver fatigue affecting situational awareness, and failure to use turn signals allowing other drivers to anticipate.
We gather mirror condition and adjustment at time of crash, lane change data from ECM/telematics, turn signal activation records, driver training on blind spot awareness, dashcam footage, and witness statements on truck behavior.
FMCSA requirements include 49 CFR § 393.80 (mirrors must provide clear view to rear on both sides) and proper mirror adjustment is part of driver pre-trip inspection.
Sideswipe injuries causing vehicle loss of control, rollover of passenger vehicle, crushing injuries, ejection from vehicle, TBI, and spinal injuries are common.
Tire Blowout Accidents
Tire blowout accidents occur when one or more tires on an 18-wheeler suddenly fail, causing the driver to lose control. Debris from the blown tire can also strike other vehicles.
18-wheelers have 18 tires, each of which can fail. Steer tire (front) blowouts are especially dangerous – can cause immediate loss of control. “Road gators” (tire debris) cause thousands of accidents annually.
Common causes include underinflated tires causing overheating, overloaded vehicles exceeding tire capacity, worn or aging tires not replaced, road debris punctures, manufacturing defects, improper tire matching on dual wheels, heat buildup on long hauls, and inadequate pre-trip tire inspections.
We gather tire maintenance and inspection records, tire age and wear documentation, tire inflation records and pressure checks, vehicle weight records (weigh station), tire manufacturer and purchase records, and failed tire for defect analysis.
FMCSA requirements include 49 CFR § 393.75 (tire requirements – tread depth, condition), 49 CFR § 396.13 (pre-trip inspection must include tire check), minimum tread depth of 4/32″ on steer tires and 2/32″ on other positions.
Vehicles struck by falling cargo, chain-reaction accidents from spilled loads, hazmat exposure injuries, and rollover injuries when cargo shifts are common injuries.
Brake Failure Accidents
Brake failure accidents occur when an 18-wheeler’s braking system fails or underperforms, preventing the driver from stopping in time to avoid a collision.
Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. Brake system violations are among the most common FMCSA out-of-service violations. Complete brake failure is often the result of systematic maintenance neglect.
Common causes include worn brake pads or shoes not replaced, improper brake adjustment (too loose), air brake system leaks or failures, overheated brakes (brake fade) on long descents, contaminated brake fluid, defective brake components, failure to conduct pre-trip brake inspections, and deferred maintenance to save costs.
We gather brake inspection and maintenance records, out-of-service inspection history, ECM data showing brake application and effectiveness, post-crash brake system analysis, driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs), and mechanic work orders and parts records.
FMCSA requirements include 49 CFR § 393.40-55 (brake system requirements), 49 CFR § 396.3 (systematic inspection and maintenance), 49 CFR § 396.11 (driver post-trip report of brake condition), and air brake pushrod travel limits specified.
Severe rear-end collision injuries, multi-vehicle pileups, TBI from high-speed impact, spinal cord injuries, wrongful death, and crushing injuries are common.
Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents
Cargo spill and shift accidents occur when improperly secured cargo falls from a truck, shifts during transport causing instability, or spills onto the roadway.
Cargo securement violations are among the top 10 most common FMCSA violations. Shifted cargo causes rollover accidents when center of gravity changes. Spilled cargo on highways causes secondary accidents.
Types include cargo shift (load moves during transit, destabilizing truck), cargo spill (load falls from truck onto roadway), and hazmat spill (hazardous materials leak or spill, creating additional dangers).
Common causes include inadequate tiedowns (insufficient number or strength), improper loading distribution, failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats, tiedown failure due to wear or damage, overloading beyond securement capacity, failure to re-inspect cargo during trip, and loose tarps allowing cargo shift.
We gather cargo securement inspection photos, bill of lading and cargo manifest, loading company records, tiedown specifications and condition, 49 CFR 393 compliance documentation, and driver training on cargo securement.
FMCSA requirements include 49 CFR § 393.100-136 (complete cargo securement standards), working load limits for tiedowns specified, and specific requirements by cargo type (logs, metal coils, machinery, etc.).
Vehicles struck by falling cargo, chain-reaction accidents from spilled loads, hazmat exposure injuries, and rollover injuries when cargo shifts are common injuries.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions occur when an 18-wheeler crosses into oncoming traffic and strikes vehicles traveling in the opposite direction.
Head-on collisions are among the deadliest accident types. Even at moderate combined speeds, the force is often fatal. They often occur on two-lane highways or from wrong-way entry.
Common causes include 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, and wrong-way entry onto divided highways.
We gather ELD data for HOS compliance and fatigue, ECM data showing lane departure and steering, cell phone records for distraction, driver medical records and certification, drug and alcohol test results, and route and dispatch records.
FMCSA violations often present include 49 CFR § 395 (hours of service violations), 49 CFR § 392.3 (operating while fatigued), 49 CFR § 392.4/5 (drug or alcohol violations), and 49 CFR § 392.82 (mobile phone use).
Catastrophic injuries or death are common. The closing speed combines both vehicles’ velocities. TBI, spinal cord injuries, internal organ damage, amputations, crushing injuries, and wrongful death result.
The 10 Parties Who May Owe You Compensation
Most law firms only sue the driver and trucking company. That’s a mistake. We investigate EVERY potentially liable party—because more defendants means more insurance coverage means higher compensation for you.
1. The Truck Driver
The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable for negligent conduct: speeding, distracted driving, fatigued driving beyond legal limits, impaired driving, failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections, and traffic law violations.
We pursue the driver’s driving record and history, ELD data showing hours of service, drug and alcohol test results, cell phone records, previous accident history, and training records.
2. The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier
The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets and most responsibility for safety.
Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior): When the driver was an employee acting within the scope of employment.
Direct Negligence:
- Negligent Hiring: Failed to check driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
- Negligent Training: Inadequate training on safety, cargo securement, hours of service
- Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance, ELD compliance
- Negligent Maintenance: Failed to maintain vehicle in safe condition
- Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations
We subpoena the Driver Qualification File, hiring policies and background check procedures, training records and curricula, supervision and monitoring practices, dispatch records showing schedule pressure, safety culture documentation, previous accident/violation history, and CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores.
Trucking companies carry MUCH higher insurance limits than individual drivers—often $750,000 to $5,000,000 or more—making them the primary recovery target.
3. Cargo Owner / Shipper
The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable for providing improper loading instructions, failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo, requiring overweight loading, pressuring carrier to expedite beyond safe limits, or misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics.
We pursue shipping contracts and bills of lading, loading instructions provided, hazmat disclosure documentation, and weight certification records.
4. Cargo Loading Company
Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo onto trucks may be liable for improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations), unbalanced load distribution, exceeding vehicle weight ratings, failure to use proper blocking, bracing, tiedowns, or not training loaders on securement requirements.
We pursue loading company securement procedures, loader training records, securement equipment used, and weight distribution documentation.
5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturer
The company that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for design defects (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement), manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures), failure to warn of known dangers, or defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning).
We pursue recall notices and technical service bulletins, similar defect complaints (NHTSA database), design specifications and testing records, and component failure analysis.
6. Parts Manufacturer
Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for defective brakes or brake components, defective tires causing blowouts, defective steering mechanisms, defective lighting components, or defective coupling devices.
We preserve failed components for expert analysis, research recall history for specific parts, identify similar failure patterns, and obtain manufacturing and quality control records.
7. Maintenance Company
Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets may be liable for negligent repairs that failed to fix problems, failure to identify critical safety issues, improper brake adjustments, using substandard or wrong parts, or returning vehicles to service with known defects.
We pursue maintenance work orders, mechanic qualifications and training, parts used in repairs, and inspection reports and recommendations.
8. Freight Broker
Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for negligent selection of carrier with poor safety record, failure to verify carrier insurance and authority, failure to check carrier CSA scores, or selecting cheapest carrier despite safety concerns.
We pursue broker-carrier agreements, carrier selection criteria, carrier safety record at time of selection, and broker’s due diligence procedures.
9. Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)
In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may have separate liability for negligent entrustment of vehicle, failure to maintain owned equipment, or knowledge of driver’s unfitness.
We pursue lease agreements, maintenance responsibility allocations, and owner’s knowledge of driver history.
10. Government Entity
Federal, state, or local government may be liable in limited circumstances for dangerous road design that contributed to accident, failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings), inadequate signage for known hazards, failure to install safety barriers, or improper work zone setup.
Special considerations include sovereign immunity limits on government liability, strict notice requirements and short deadlines, and the need to prove actual notice of dangerous condition in many cases.
We pursue road design specifications, maintenance records, prior accident history at location, and citizen complaints about condition.
FMCSA Regulations: The Rules Trucking Companies Break
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates ALL commercial motor vehicles operating in interstate commerce. These regulations are codified in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR), Parts 300-399.
When trucking companies and drivers violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that cause catastrophic accidents. Proving FMCSA violations is often the key to establishing negligence and securing maximum compensation.
The 6 Critical Parts of FMCSA Regulations
| Part | Title | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Part 390 | General Applicability | Definitions, who regulations apply to |
| Part 391 | Driver Qualification | Who can drive, medical requirements, training |
| Part 392 | Driving Rules | Safe operation, fatigue, drugs, alcohol |
| Part 393 | Vehicle Safety | Equipment, cargo securement, brakes, lights |
| Part 395 | Hours of Service | How long drivers can drive, required rest |
| Part 396 | Inspection & Maintenance | Vehicle upkeep, inspections, records |
49 CFR Part 391: Driver Qualification Standards
A person shall not drive a commercial motor vehicle unless they:
- Are at least 21 years old (interstate) or 18 years old (intrastate)
- Can read and speak English sufficiently
- Can safely operate the CMV and cargo type
- Are physically qualified under § 391.41
- Have a valid commercial motor vehicle operator’s license (CDL)
- Have completed a driver’s road test or equivalent
- Are not disqualified under § 391.15 (violations, suspensions)
- 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:
- 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)
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.
49 CFR Part 392: Driving of Commercial Motor Vehicles
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.”
This regulation makes BOTH the driver AND the trucking company liable when a fatigued driver causes an accident.
Drugs and Other Substances (49 CFR § 392.4):
A driver shall not be on duty or operate a CMV while under the influence of any Schedule I substance, under the influence of an amphetamine, narcotic, or any substance that renders them incapable of safe driving, or possessing a Schedule I substance (unless prescription).
Alcohol (49 CFR § 392.5):
A driver shall not use alcohol within 4 hours before going on duty or operating a CMV, use alcohol while on duty or operating a CMV, be under the influence of alcohol (.04 BAC or higher) while on duty, or possess any alcohol while on duty (with limited exceptions).
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.”
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.”
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, and texting while driving (49 CFR § 392.80).
49 CFR Part 393: Parts and Accessories for Safe Operation
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; and 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), and 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 including service brakes on all wheels, parking/emergency brake system, air brake systems meeting specific requirements, and brake adjustment 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, and turn signal lamps.
Violations of cargo securement cause rollover, jackknife, and spill accidents. Brake failures cause rear-end collisions. We investigate every vehicle system when building your case.
49 CFR Part 395: Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations
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 |
| 14-Hour Duty Window | Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty | Driver exhaustion |
| 30-Minute Break | Must take 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving | Impaired alertness |
| 60/70-Hour Limit | Cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days | Cumulative fatigue |
| 34-Hour Restart | Can restart 60/70-hour clock with 34 consecutive hours off | Inadequate recovery |
| 10-Hour Off-Duty | Must have minimum 10 consecutive hours off duty before driving | Insufficient rest |
Sleeper Berth Provision (49 CFR § 395.1(g)):
Drivers using sleeper berth may split 10-hour off-duty period with at least 7 consecutive hours in sleeper berth plus at least 2 consecutive hours off-duty (in berth or otherwise). 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), and record GPS location, speed, and engine hours.
WHY ELD DATA IS CRITICAL EVIDENCE:
ELDs prove exactly how long the driver was on duty, whether breaks were taken as required, speed before and during the accident, GPS location history, and any HOS violations.
WE SEND SPOLIATION LETTERS IMMEDIATELY TO PRESERVE THIS DATA.
49 CFR Part 396: Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance
General Maintenance Requirement (§ 396.3):
“Every motor carrier and intermodal equipment provider must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain, or cause to be systematically inspected, repaired, and maintained, all motor vehicles and intermodal equipment subject to its control.”
Driver Inspection Requirements:
Pre-Trip Inspection (§ 396.13):
Before driving, drivers must be satisfied the CMV is in safe operating condition. 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, and 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, and record of repairs and maintenance. Records must be retained for 1 year.
Brake failures cause 29% of truck accidents. If the trucking company failed to maintain proper records or deferred maintenance, they are liable for negligence.
Catastrophic Injuries: The Human Cost of Trucking Negligence
The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception.
Size and Weight Disparity
- Fully loaded 18-wheeler: Up to 80,000 lbs
- Average passenger car: 3,500-4,000 lbs
- The truck is 20-25 TIMES heavier than your car
Impact Force
Force equals mass times acceleration. An 80,000 lb truck at 65 mph carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a car. This energy transfers to the smaller vehicle in a crash.
Stopping Distance
An 18-wheeler at 65 mph needs ~525 feet to stop (nearly 2 football fields). A car at 65 mph needs ~300 feet. This 40% longer stopping distance means trucks cannot avoid obstacles as quickly.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In 18-wheeler accidents, the extreme forces cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull.
Severity 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, and personality changes.
Long-Term Consequences:
Permanent cognitive impairment, inability to work, need for ongoing care and supervision, increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s, and depression and emotional disorders.
Lifetime Care Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity
We’ve recovered over $5 million for a traumatic brain injury victim struck by a falling log. Our firm has secured multi-million dollar settlements for TBI victims—settlements that provide resources for the best possible recovery, not because money erases what happened, but because it provides the resources for healing.
Spinal Cord Injury
Damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.
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.
Spinal cord injury cases in Clarke County require attorneys who understand both the medical complexity and the long-term financial implications. We’ve helped families secure the resources they need for lifetime care.
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, and 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, and psychological counseling.
Impact on Life:
Permanent disability, career limitations or total disability, phantom limb pain, body image and psychological trauma, need for home modifications, and dependency on others for daily activities.
In one case, we secured $3.8 million for a client who lost a limb after a car crash. The settlement covered not just immediate medical costs, but lifetime prosthetics, home modifications, and the income they would never earn.
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, and 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, and 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), and bowel and intestinal damage.
Why Dangerous:
May not show immediate symptoms, internal bleeding can be life-threatening, requires emergency surgery, and organ removal affects long-term health.
Wrongful Death
When a trucking accident kills, surviving family members can recover compensation through wrongful death claims.
Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim in Georgia:
Surviving spouse, children (minor and adult), parents (especially if no spouse or children), and 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, and punitive damages (if gross negligence).
Georgia Statute of Limitations: 2 years from date of death to file wrongful death lawsuit.
We’ve recovered millions for Texas families in fatal 18-wheeler accidents. While every case is different, our experience means we know how to build the strongest possible case for maximum compensation.
The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol: Why Time Is Your Enemy
In 18-wheeler accident cases, EVIDENCE DISAPPEARS FAST. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act quickly, critical evidence will be lost forever.
Critical Timelines
| Evidence Type | Destruction Risk |
|---|---|
| ECM/Black Box Data | Overwrites in 30 days or with new driving events |
| ELD Data | May be retained only 6 months |
| Dashcam Footage | Often deleted within 7-14 days |
| Surveillance Video | Business cameras typically overwrite in 7-30 days |
| Witness Memory | Fades significantly within weeks |
| Physical Evidence | Vehicle may be repaired, sold, or scrapped |
| Drug/Alcohol Tests | Must be conducted within specific windows |
The Spoliation Letter: Your Legal Shield
A spoliation letter is a formal legal notice sent to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence related to the accident.
Why It Matters:
- Puts defendants on legal notice of their preservation obligation
- Creates serious consequences if evidence is destroyed
- Courts can impose sanctions, adverse inferences, or even default judgment for spoliation
- The sooner sent, the more weight it carries
When We Send It: IMMEDIATELY—within 24-48 hours of being retained. We don’t wait.
What Our Spoliation Letter Demands
Electronic Data:
- Engine Control Module (ECM) / Electronic Control Unit (ECU) data
- Event Data Recorder (EDR) data
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
- GPS and telematics data
- Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
- Dispatch communications and messaging
- Cell phone records and text messages
- Qualcomm or fleet management system data
Driver Records:
- Complete Driver Qualification File
- Employment application and resume
- Background check and driving record
- Previous employer verification
- Medical certification and exam records
- Drug and alcohol test results (pre-employment and random)
- Training documentation
- Previous accident and violation history
- Performance reviews and disciplinary records
Vehicle Records:
- Maintenance and repair records
- Inspection reports (pre-trip, post-trip, annual)
- Out-of-service orders and repairs
- Tire records and replacement history
- Brake inspection and adjustment records
- Parts purchase and installation records
Company Records:
- Hours of service records for 6 months prior
- Dispatch logs and trip records
- Bills of lading and cargo documentation
- Insurance policies
- Safety policies and procedures
- Training curricula
- Hiring and supervision policies
Physical Evidence:
- The truck and trailer themselves
- Failed or damaged components
- Cargo and securement devices
- Tire remnants if blowout involved
ECM/Black Box Data: The Objective Truth
Commercial trucks have electronic systems that continuously record operational data—similar to an airplane’s black box but for trucks.
Types of Electronic Recording:
| System | What It Records |
|---|---|
| ECM (Engine Control Module) | Engine performance, speed, throttle, RPM, cruise control, fault codes |
| EDR (Event Data Recorder) | Pre-crash data triggered by sudden deceleration or airbag deployment |
| ELD (Electronic Logging Device) | Driver hours, duty status, GPS location, driving time |
| Telematics | Real-time GPS tracking, speed, route, driver behavior |
| Dashcam | Video of road ahead, some record cab interior |
Critical Data Points:
- Speed Before Crash: Proves speeding or excessive speed for conditions
- Brake Application: Shows when and how hard brakes were applied
- Throttle Position: Reveals if driver was accelerating or coasting
- Following Distance: Calculated from speed and deceleration data
- Hours of Service: Proves fatigue and HOS violations
- GPS Location: Confirms route and timing
- Fault Codes: May reveal known mechanical issues driver ignored
Why This Data Wins Cases:
ECM/ELD data is objective and tamper-resistant. It directly contradicts driver claims of “I wasn’t speeding” or “I hit my brakes immediately.” This data has led to multi-million dollar verdicts in trucking cases.
FMCSA Record Retention Requirements
Minimum Retention Periods:
| Record Type | Retention Period |
|---|---|
| Driver Qualification Files | 3 years after termination |
| Hours of Service Records | 6 months |
| Vehicle Inspection Reports | 1 year |
| Maintenance Records | 1 year |
| Accident Register | 3 years |
| Drug Test Records (positive) | 5 years |
| Drug Test Records (negative) | 1 year |
Why Our Spoliation Letter Extends These:
Once we send a preservation demand and litigation is anticipated, the duty to preserve extends beyond these minimum periods. Destroying evidence after receiving our letter can result in:
- Adverse inference instructions (jury told to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable)
- Sanctions and monetary penalties
- Default judgment in extreme cases
- Punitive damages for intentional destruction
Georgia Law: What Clarke County Accident Victims Need to Know
Statute of Limitations
In Georgia, you have 2 years from the date of your trucking accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, you have 2 years from the date of death.
Don’t wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.
Comparative Negligence in Georgia
Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule with a 50% bar. This means:
- If you are 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault
- If you are more than 50% at fault, you recover nothing
Example: If you’re awarded $100,000 but found 30% at fault, you receive $70,000. If you’re found 51% at fault, you receive $0.
This makes thorough investigation and evidence preservation critical. The trucking company will try to blame you. We gather the evidence to prove what really happened.
Punitive Damages in Georgia
Georgia law caps punitive damages at $250,000 in most personal injury cases, with exceptions for:
- Intentional conduct
- Cases where defendant was under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Product liability cases
Punitive damages punish defendants for gross negligence, willful misconduct, or conscious indifference to safety. They’re rare but powerful when available.
Damage Caps in Georgia
Unlike some states, Georgia does NOT cap economic damages (medical bills, lost wages) or non-economic damages (pain and suffering) in most personal injury cases. The $250,000 punitive damages cap is the primary limitation.
This means catastrophic injury victims in Clarke County can potentially recover full compensation for all their losses—if they have attorneys who know how to build and present their case.
Commercial Truck Insurance: Why These Cases Are High Value
FMCSA Minimum Insurance Requirements
Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry minimum liability insurance far exceeding typical auto policies.
| 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 |
Unlike car accidents where insurance may be limited to $30,000-$100,000, trucking accidents typically have at least $750,000 available—and often much more. Many carriers carry $1-5 million in coverage.
This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.
Types of Damages Recoverable
Economic Damages (Calculable Losses):
| 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, or fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence).
Nuclear Verdicts: What Juries Are Awarding
The trucking industry is seeing unprecedented jury verdicts. The average award now exceeds $27 million, with nuclear verdicts—those over $10 million—becoming increasingly common.
Recent Major Trucking Verdicts (2024-2025)
| Amount | Year | Location | Case Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| $462 Million | 2024 | St. Louis, MO | Wabash National – two fatalities |
| $160 Million | 2024 | Alabama | Daimler – quadriplegic injury from rollover |
| $141.5 Million | 2024 | Florida | Defunct carrier crash |
| $90 Million | — | Houston, TX | Truck driver burned in explosion |
| $37.5 Million | 2024 | Texas | Trucking verdict |
| $35.5 Million | — | Texas | Family injured in truck accident |
| $35 Million | 2025 | Fort Worth, TX | Largest in Tarrant County |
Historic Landmark Verdicts
| Amount | Year | Case Details |
|---|---|---|
| $1 BILLION | 2021 | Florida – 18-year-old killed, negligent hiring. $100M compensatory + $900M punitive |
| $411 Million | 2020 | Florida – 45-vehicle pileup, motorcyclist severely injured |
Why Nuclear Verdicts Happen
Juries award massive verdicts when they find:
- Trucking company knowingly hired dangerous drivers
- Company ignored safety violations for profit
- Evidence was destroyed (spoliation)
- Falsified hours-of-service logs
- Pattern of similar violations
- Corporate culture prioritizing profit over safety
- Egregious disregard for human life
What This Means for Your Case
These verdicts show what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable. Insurance companies know juries are willing to award massive damages—which strengthens settlement negotiations.
In Georgia, we’ve seen significant verdicts including $47 million in Cherokee County for wrongful death and $21.6 million for an I-285 crash. While every case is different, these numbers show that Georgia juries take trucking safety seriously.
Frequently Asked Questions: Clarke County 18-Wheeler Accidents
Immediate After-Accident Questions
What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Clarke County?
If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Clarke 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; and call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately.
Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?
YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Clarke County hospitals and trauma centers 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 Clarke 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; and weather and road conditions.
Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?
NO. Do not give any recorded statements. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests.
How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney in Clarke County?
IMMEDIATELY—within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence in trucking cases (black box data, ELD records, dashcam footage) can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.
What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?
A spoliation letter is a legal notice demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. This includes ECM/black box data, ELD logs, maintenance records, driver files, and more. Sending this letter immediately puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.
Trucking Company & Driver Questions
Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Clarke 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); and government entities (for road defects). We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.
Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?
Usually YES. Under 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), and negligent scheduling (pressuring drivers to violate HOS regulations).
What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?
Georgia uses a modified comparative negligence system with a 50% bar. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation as long as you’re not more than 50% responsible. 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.
What is an owner-operator and does that affect my case?
An owner-operator is a driver who owns their own truck and contracts with trucking companies. This can complicate liability, but both the owner-operator and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.
How do I find out if the trucking company has a bad safety record?
FMCSA maintains public safety data at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. We obtain the carrier’s CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores, inspection history and out-of-service rates, crash history, and safety rating. A poor safety record can prove the company knew it was putting dangerous drivers on the road.
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, and 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.
What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?
We pursue ECM/Black box data, ELD records, Driver Qualification File, maintenance records, inspection reports, dispatch logs, drug and alcohol test results, training records, cell phone records, insurance policies, and the physical truck and trailer.
Can the trucking company destroy evidence?
Once they’re on notice of potential litigation, destroying evidence is spoliation—a serious legal violation. Courts can instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable, impose monetary sanctions, enter default judgment in extreme cases, and award punitive damages.
FMCSA Regulations Questions
What are hours of service regulations and how do violations cause accidents?
FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate: maximum 11 hours driving after 10 hours off; cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty; 30-minute break required after 8 hours driving; and 60/70 hour weekly limits. Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes. Drivers who violate these rules are too tired to react safely.
What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?
The top violations we find: hours of service violations (driving too long), false log entries (lying about driving time), brake system deficiencies, cargo securement failures, drug and alcohol violations, unqualified drivers (no valid CDL or medical certificate), and failure to inspect vehicles.
What is a Driver Qualification File and why does it matter?
FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a file for every driver containing employment application, driving record check, previous employer verification, medical certification, drug test results, and training documentation. Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.
How do pre-trip inspections relate to my accident case?
Drivers must inspect their trucks before every trip. If they failed to conduct inspections or ignored known defects (bad brakes, worn tires, lighting problems), both the driver and company may be liable for negligence.
Injury & Medical Questions
What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in Clarke County?
Due to the massive size and weight disparity, trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries: traumatic brain injury (TBI), spinal cord injuries and paralysis, amputations, severe burns, internal organ damage, multiple fractures, and wrongful death.
How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Clarke County?
Case values depend on many factors: severity of injuries; medical expenses (past and future); lost income and earning capacity; pain and suffering; degree of defendant’s negligence; and insurance coverage available.
Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents. We’ve seen verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions.
What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in Clarke County?
Georgia allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover lost future income, loss of companionship and guidance, mental anguish, funeral expenses, and punitive damages if gross negligence. Time limits apply—contact us immediately to protect your rights.
Legal Process Questions
How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Clarke County?
The statute of limitations in Georgia is 2 years from the date of your trucking accident to file a lawsuit. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.
How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?
Timelines vary: simple cases with clear liability may resolve in 6-12 months; complex cases with multiple parties may take 1-3 years; cases that go to trial may take 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.
Insurance Questions
How much insurance do trucking companies carry?
Federal law requires minimum liability coverage of $750,000 for non-hazardous freight, $1,000,000 for oil and large equipment, and $5,000,000 for hazardous materials. Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.
What if multiple insurance policies apply to my accident?
Trucking cases often involve multiple policies: motor carrier’s liability policy, trailer interchange coverage, cargo insurance, owner-operator’s policy, and excess/umbrella coverage. We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.
Will the trucking company’s insurance try to settle quickly?
Often yes—and that’s a red flag. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Clarke County Trucking Accident Case
25+ Years of Experience Fighting for Victims
Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s admitted to federal court, has litigated against Fortune 500 corporations like BP, and has recovered multi-million dollar settlements for families just like yours.
Our firm has recovered over $50 million for Texas families across all practice areas. We’ve gone toe-to-toe with the world’s largest corporations, including BP in the Texas City Refinery explosion litigation that resulted in $2.1 billion in total settlements industry-wide.
The Insurance Defense Advantage
Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance companies—now he fights against them. That’s your advantage.
Lupe knows:
- How insurance companies VALUE claims (he knows their formulas)
- How adjusters are TRAINED (he recognizes their manipulation tactics immediately)
- What makes them SETTLE (he knows when they’re bluffing)
- How they MINIMIZE payouts (he counters every tactic)
- How they DENY claims (he knows how to fight wrongful denials)
- Claims valuation software (Colossus, etc.)—he understands how algorithms undervalue your suffering
Multi-Million Dollar Results
Our documented case results include:
- $5+ Million – Traumatic Brain Injury + Vision Loss (falling log at logging company)
- $3.8+ Million – Partial Leg Amputation (car accident followed by staph infection)
- $2+ Million – Back Injury (lifting cargo on vessel – Jones Act)
- $2.5+ Million – Truck Crash Recovery
- Millions – Multiple Wrongful Death cases
- $10 Million+ Lawsuit – Currently litigating against University of Houston for hazing injuries
Client Satisfaction: 4.9 Stars, 251+ Reviews
Our clients say it best:
“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
Three Office Locations, Serving Clarke County and Beyond
| Location | Address |
|---|---|
| Houston (Main) | 1177 West Loop S, Suite 1600, Houston, TX 77027 |
| Austin | 316 West 12th Street, Suite 311, Austin, TX 78701-1844 |
| Beaumont | Available for client meetings |
With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve trucking accident victims across Texas and beyond. For Clarke County clients, we offer remote consultations and travel to you for your case.
Contingency Fee: No Fee Unless We Win
- Standard 33.33% pre-trial
- 40% if trial required
You pay nothing unless we win. Zero upfront costs. We advance all investigation expenses.
Hablamos Español
Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español. 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. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Evidence is disappearing while you read this.
What are you doing?
Call Attorney911 NOW: 1-888-ATTY-911
Free consultation. 24/7 availability. No fee unless we win.
Ralph Manginello has made trucking companies pay—millions of times over. Our team includes an attorney who used to work for insurance companies. Now he works against them. That’s your advantage.
Don’t let the trucking company win. Don’t settle for less than you deserve. Don’t wait until the evidence is gone.
Your fight starts with one call: 1-888-ATTY-911
We answer. We fight. We win.
Attorney911 | The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC
25+ years fighting for trucking accident victims
Multi-million dollar results | 4.9★ Google rating | Hablamos Español
