Three Hospitalized After Tire-Related Crash on U.S. 77 Near Chilton: What Waco Families Need to Know

Every year, thousands of Texas families are devastated by 18-wheeler accidents on our highways. The recent crash on U.S. 77 near Chilton that sent three people to the hospital is a stark reminder of how quickly lives can change when mechanical failures and commercial trucks collide. At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for victims of trucking accidents across Texas, and we know the physical, emotional, and financial toll these crashes take on families.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Waco or anywhere in McLennan County, you need to understand your rights—and you need to act quickly. Evidence disappears fast in these cases, and the trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests. Let’s break down what happened in this incident, why it matters for Waco families, and what you should do if you find yourself in a similar situation.

The Chilton Crash: What We Know

On February 19, 2026, at approximately 4:45 p.m., a southbound Ford F-350 experienced a tire-related mechanical issue while traveling along U.S. 77 north of Chilton, Texas. According to Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) troopers investigating the crash:

• The apparent mechanical problem caused the truck to cross into the northbound lane of traffic
• An oncoming Chevrolet Silverado then struck the Ford after it entered the opposing lane
• The impact resulted in injuries to multiple occupants
• Authorities transported the driver and passenger of the Ford F-350, as well as the driver of the Chevrolet Silverado, to surrounding hospitals for medical treatment
• Officials have not yet released details regarding the severity of the injuries
• Texas DPS continues to actively investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash

This incident is still under investigation, but the preliminary facts raise serious questions about vehicle maintenance, tire safety, and the trucking industry’s responsibility to prevent mechanical failures that endanger public safety.

Why This Crash Matters for Waco and McLennan County

While this accident occurred near Chilton, the same dangers exist right here in Waco and across McLennan County. Our community sits at the crossroads of major trucking corridors:

• U.S. 77 runs directly through Waco, connecting to I-35 just north of the city
• I-35 is one of the busiest trucking routes in America, carrying freight between Mexico, Texas, and the Midwest
• State Highway 6 serves as a critical east-west connector for commercial traffic
• Loop 340 handles significant truck traffic serving local distribution centers

These routes see heavy commercial traffic from major carriers, local delivery trucks, and agricultural haulers. The Chilton crash highlights several risks that Waco families face every day:

1. The Danger of Mechanical Failures

Tire blowouts and other mechanical failures are a leading cause of trucking accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), tire-related issues contribute to approximately 11,000 truck crashes annually, resulting in 738 fatalities in 2017 alone.

In this incident, the Ford F-350 experienced a “tire-related issue” that caused it to cross into oncoming traffic. While we don’t yet know the specific nature of the tire problem, common causes include:

• Underinflation: Tires that aren’t properly inflated generate excessive heat, leading to blowouts
• Overloading: Exceeding a vehicle’s weight rating puts excessive stress on tires
• Worn tread: Bald tires have reduced traction and are more prone to failure
• Manufacturing defects: Defective tires can fail even when properly maintained
• Road debris: Punctures from nails, glass, or other road debris
• Age: Tires degrade over time, even with minimal use

FMCSA Regulations on Tire Safety:
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has strict regulations governing tire safety for commercial vehicles:

• 49 CFR § 393.75 requires that all tires have a tread depth of at least 4/32 of an inch on steer tires and 2/32 of an inch on all other tires
• 49 CFR § 396.13 mandates that drivers inspect their tires before every trip
• 49 CFR § 396.3 requires motor carriers to systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all vehicles under their control

When trucking companies or drivers fail to comply with these regulations, they create dangerous conditions that can lead to catastrophic accidents like the one on U.S. 77.

2. The Catastrophic Consequences of Lane Departures

The Chilton crash involved a vehicle crossing into oncoming traffic—a scenario that often results in head-on collisions, which are among the deadliest types of accidents. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), head-on collisions account for only 2% of crashes but 10% of fatalities.

When a commercial truck crosses into opposing lanes, the consequences are particularly severe due to:

• Massive weight disparity: A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—20-25 times more than a passenger vehicle
• High closing speeds: When two vehicles are moving toward each other, their speeds combine in the impact
• Limited maneuverability: Passenger vehicles have little chance to avoid a truck that suddenly enters their lane

The injuries in these crashes are often catastrophic:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Amputations
• Severe burns
• Internal organ damage
• Wrongful death

3. The Trucking Industry’s Rapid Response Teams

While the victims of the Chilton crash were being transported to hospitals, the trucking company involved was likely already activating their rapid-response team. These teams are trained to:

• Arrive at accident scenes quickly
• Document the scene in ways that protect the company’s interests
• Collect evidence that may be favorable to the company
• Begin building a defense strategy immediately

This is why it’s critical to contact an experienced trucking accident attorney as soon as possible after a crash. At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve critical evidence before it can be lost or destroyed.

The Legal Landscape: Who’s Responsible?

In trucking accident cases, multiple parties may share liability. The Chilton crash investigation will likely focus on several potential defendants:

1. The Driver of the Ford F-350

The driver may be liable if they:
– Failed to properly inspect the vehicle before the trip
– Continued driving with known mechanical issues
– Failed to maintain control of the vehicle after the tire issue occurred
– Were distracted, fatigued, or otherwise impaired

2. The Trucking Company or Employer

If the Ford F-350 was being operated in the course of business, the trucking company or employer may be liable under several legal theories:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):
Under this doctrine, employers are responsible for the negligent acts of their employees when those acts occur within the scope of employment.

Negligent Hiring:
If the company failed to properly vet the driver’s qualifications, they may be liable for negligent hiring. This includes:
– Failing to check the driver’s commercial driver’s license (CDL) status
– Not verifying the driver’s medical certification
– Ignoring the driver’s previous accident or violation history
– Failing to conduct proper background checks

Negligent Training:
Trucking companies must provide adequate training on:
– Vehicle inspection procedures
– Tire safety and maintenance
– Emergency maneuvers for mechanical failures
– Hours of service compliance

Negligent Supervision:
Companies must monitor their drivers’ performance and compliance with safety regulations. This includes:
– Reviewing hours of service logs
– Monitoring speed and other driving behaviors
– Ensuring compliance with maintenance schedules

Negligent Maintenance:
If the tire failure resulted from poor maintenance, the company may be directly liable. FMCSA regulations require:
– Systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance (49 CFR § 396.3)
– Driver pre-trip and post-trip inspections (49 CFR § 396.13)
– Annual inspections (49 CFR § 396.17)

3. The Tire Manufacturer

If the tire failure resulted from a manufacturing defect, the tire manufacturer may be liable under product liability laws. Common tire defects include:
– Design flaws that make tires prone to failure
– Manufacturing defects like weak belts or poor bonding
– Failure to warn about known risks

4. Maintenance Providers

If a third-party maintenance company serviced the vehicle, they may share liability if:
– They failed to identify and repair tire issues
– They used substandard or incorrect parts
– They performed repairs negligently

5. Cargo Loaders (If Applicable)

If the Ford F-350 was carrying cargo, the company responsible for loading may be liable if:
– The cargo was improperly secured
– The vehicle was overloaded
– The load distribution affected vehicle stability

The Investigation: What Evidence Matters?

In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears quickly. Here’s what investigators and attorneys will be looking for in the Chilton crash:

Electronic Data

Engine Control Module (ECM) / Black Box Data:
Most commercial vehicles are equipped with electronic control modules that record critical data, including:
– Vehicle speed before and during the crash
– Brake application timing and pressure
– Throttle position
– Engine RPM
– Cruise control status
– Fault codes indicating mechanical issues

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Data:
ELDs record driver hours of service, which can reveal:
– Whether the driver was fatigued
– Compliance with federal rest requirements
– GPS location history

Telematics Data:
Many fleets use telematics systems that track:
– Real-time vehicle location
– Speed and acceleration patterns
– Hard braking events
– Driver behavior metrics

Physical Evidence

The Vehicle Itself:
– Tire condition and tread depth
– Brake system functionality
– Steering components
– Lighting and visibility equipment
– Any mechanical defects

The Failed Tire:
– Tread wear patterns
– Signs of underinflation or overloading
– Manufacturing defects
– Age of the tire

Accident Scene Evidence:
– Skid marks showing braking and evasive maneuvers
– Debris patterns indicating point of impact
– Road conditions (wet, dry, debris)
– Visibility obstructions

Documentary Evidence

Driver Qualification File:
FMCSA requires motor carriers to maintain a file for each driver containing:
– Employment application
– Motor vehicle record
– Road test certificate
– Medical examiner’s certificate
– Annual driving record review
– Previous employer inquiries
– Drug and alcohol test records

Maintenance Records:
– Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports
– Repair orders and invoices
– Parts replacement records
– Annual inspection reports

Hours of Service Records:
– ELD logs
– Paper logs (if applicable)
– Dispatch records showing trip schedules

Cargo Documentation:
– Bills of lading
– Weight tickets
– Loading diagrams
– Securement records

Witness Evidence

Eyewitness Accounts:
– Statements from other drivers who witnessed the crash
– Accounts from passengers in either vehicle
– Observations from nearby residents or businesses

Expert Witnesses:
– Accident reconstruction experts
– Tire failure analysts
– Human factors experts (fatigue, distraction)
– Medical experts (injury causation)

The Human Cost: What the Chilton Victims Face

While officials haven’t released details about the severity of injuries in the Chilton crash, we know that trucking accidents often result in catastrophic harm. The victims may be facing:

Medical Challenges

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI):
TBI occurs when a sudden trauma damages the brain. Symptoms can include:
– Headaches and dizziness
– Memory problems and confusion
– Mood changes and personality shifts
– Sleep disturbances
– Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
– Speech difficulties
– Cognitive impairment

TBI can require:
– Emergency surgery
– Extended hospital stays
– Rehabilitation therapy
– Long-term care
– Cognitive therapy
– Psychological counseling

Spinal Cord Injuries:
Damage to the spinal cord can result in:
– Paraplegia (loss of function below the waist)
– Quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs)
– Loss of bladder and bowel control
– Chronic pain
– Respiratory problems (for high spinal injuries)

Orthopedic Injuries:
– Multiple fractures
– Crush injuries
– Amputations
– Severe lacerations

Internal Injuries:
– Organ damage (liver, spleen, kidneys)
– Internal bleeding
– Punctured lungs

Financial Burdens

The medical costs from trucking accidents can be staggering:
– Emergency room treatment: $5,000-$20,000
– Hospitalization: $10,000-$100,000+
– Surgery: $20,000-$200,000+
– Rehabilitation: $50,000-$500,000+
– Long-term care: $100,000-$5,000,000+

Beyond medical expenses, victims face:
– Lost wages from missed work
– Reduced earning capacity if unable to return to previous employment
– Property damage to vehicles
– Home modifications for disabilities
– Transportation costs for medical appointments
– Psychological counseling

Emotional Toll

The emotional impact of a trucking accident can be devastating:
– Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
– Depression and anxiety
– Loss of enjoyment of life
– Relationship strain
– Fear of driving or being on the road
– Grief and trauma for families of fatality victims

What Waco Families Should Do After a Trucking Accident

If you or a loved one is involved in a trucking accident in Waco or McLennan County, follow these critical steps:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if you feel fine, get checked out by a doctor. Many injuries, including TBI and internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. Medical records will also be crucial evidence for your case.

2. Document Everything at the Scene

If you’re able to do so safely:
– Call 911 and report the accident
– Take photos of all vehicles involved, including license plates
– Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, and any skid marks
– Get contact information from witnesses
– Note the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
– Document your injuries with photos

3. Don’t Give Statements to Insurance Adjusters

The trucking company’s insurance adjuster will contact you quickly. They’re trained to get you to say things that can be used to minimize your claim. Politely decline to give any recorded statements and refer them to your attorney.

4. Preserve Evidence

• Keep all medical records and bills
• Save all communication with insurance companies
• Don’t repair or dispose of your vehicle until it’s been inspected
• Keep a journal documenting your pain, symptoms, and how the injuries affect your daily life

5. Contact an Experienced Trucking Accident Attorney Immediately

Time is critical in trucking accident cases. Evidence disappears quickly, and the trucking company’s team is already working to protect their interests. At Attorney911, we:

• Send spoliation letters within hours to preserve critical evidence
• Obtain and analyze ECM, ELD, and telematics data
• Subpoena driver qualification files and maintenance records
• Work with accident reconstruction experts
• Handle all communication with insurance companies
• Fight for maximum compensation for your injuries

The Attorney911 Difference: Why Choose Us for Your Waco Trucking Accident Case

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes.

Here’s what sets us apart:

1. Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics

Our team includes former insurance defense attorneys who know exactly how trucking insurers operate. They’ve seen firsthand how adjusters are trained to minimize claims, and now they use that knowledge to fight for victims.

2. Immediate Evidence Preservation

We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve critical evidence before it can be lost or destroyed. In trucking cases, this includes:
– ECM/black box data
– ELD logs
– Maintenance records
– Driver qualification files
– Dashcam footage

3. Comprehensive Investigation

We leave no stone unturned in building your case:
– Obtaining and analyzing electronic data
– Working with accident reconstruction experts
– Subpoenaing all relevant records
– Identifying all potentially liable parties
– Documenting the full extent of your damages

4. Proven Track Record of Results

While every case is unique, our firm has a history of securing significant compensation for trucking accident victims:

• $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
• $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement
• $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

5. Personal Attention from Start to Finish

Unlike large firms where you’re just a case number, at Attorney911 you’re family. Ralph Manginello personally oversees every case, and our clients consistently praise our communication and compassion:

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

6. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on contingency, which means:
– You pay nothing upfront
– We advance all costs of investigation and litigation
– You only pay if we win your case
– Our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket

The Road Ahead: What to Expect in Your Trucking Accident Case

If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident in Waco, here’s what you can expect when you work with Attorney911:

Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)

• Free initial consultation to evaluate your case
• Immediate spoliation letters sent to preserve evidence
• Coordination with medical providers
• Initial investigation and evidence gathering

Phase 2: Comprehensive Investigation (Days 1-30)

• Obtaining and analyzing ECM/ELD data
• Subpoenaing driver qualification files
• Requesting maintenance and inspection records
• Interviewing witnesses
• Working with accident reconstruction experts
• Identifying all potentially liable parties

Phase 3: Medical Treatment and Documentation (Ongoing)

• Ensuring you receive proper medical care
• Documenting the full extent of your injuries
• Calculating past and future medical expenses
• Assessing impact on your ability to work

Phase 4: Demand and Negotiation

• Preparing a comprehensive demand package
• Negotiating with insurance companies
• Evaluating settlement offers
• Preparing for litigation if necessary

Phase 5: Litigation (If Needed)

• Filing a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires
• Conducting discovery (depositions, document requests)
• Retaining expert witnesses
• Preparing for trial
• Negotiating from a position of strength

Phase 6: Resolution

• Settlement negotiations
• Mediation
• Trial (if necessary)
• Collecting your compensation

Landmark Trucking Verdicts: What’s Possible in Your Case

While every case is unique, recent verdicts demonstrate what juries are willing to award when trucking companies are held accountable:

• $730 Million (2021, Texas) – Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger: Navy propeller oversize load killed 73-year-old woman; $480M compensatory + $250M punitive
• $462 Million (2024, Missouri) – Underride decapitation case
• $160 Million (2024, Alabama) – Street v. Daimler: Rollover left driver quadriplegic
• $150 Million (2022, Texas) – Werner Enterprises settlement: Two children killed on I-30
• $141.5 Million (2023, Florida) – Defunct carrier case

These verdicts show that when trucking companies act with gross negligence or reckless disregard for safety, juries are willing to award massive damages to punish the wrongdoer and compensate victims.

The FMCSA’s Role: Holding Trucking Companies Accountable

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the trucking industry through a system called Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA). This system tracks carriers’ safety performance in seven categories:

1. Unsafe Driving (speeding, reckless driving, improper lane changes)
2. Hours of Service Compliance (fatigue-related violations)
3. Driver Fitness (unqualified drivers, medical issues)
4. Controlled Substances/Alcohol (drug and alcohol violations)
5. Vehicle Maintenance (brake, tire, lighting violations)
6. Hazardous Materials Compliance (improper handling of hazmat)
7. Crash Indicator (crash history)

Carriers with poor CSA scores are more likely to be involved in accidents. At Attorney911, we obtain carriers’ CSA scores and inspection histories to build stronger cases for our clients.

Common Trucking Industry Tactics (And How We Counter Them)

Trucking companies and their insurers use several tactics to minimize claims. Here’s how we counter them:

The Statute of Limitations: Don’t Wait Too Long

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is 2 years from the date of the accident. This means you have two years to file a lawsuit, or you lose your right to seek compensation forever.

However, you should never wait that long. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

What This Means for Waco Families

The Chilton crash on U.S. 77 is a sobering reminder of the dangers Waco families face every day on our highways. While this incident occurred north of Chilton, the same risks exist right here in McLennan County:

• Mechanical failures can happen to any commercial vehicle on I-35, Highway 6, or Loop 340
• Tire blowouts are a constant threat, especially in Texas heat
• Lane departures can occur on any of our busy trucking corridors
• The trucking industry’s rapid-response teams are active in Waco, working to protect their interests after every crash

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Waco, you need to act quickly. Evidence disappears fast, and the trucking company’s team is already working to minimize your claim.

Frequently Asked Questions About Waco Trucking Accidents

1. What should I do immediately after a trucking accident in Waco?

If you’re able to do so safely:
– Call 911 and report the accident
– Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine
– Document the scene with photos and video
– Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
– Collect witness contact information
– Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
– Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal assistance

2. Who can I sue after a trucking accident in Waco?

Multiple parties may be liable, including:
– 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 the carrier)

3. How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Texas?

The statute of limitations in Texas is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait that long. Evidence disappears quickly, and the sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

4. What evidence is important in a trucking accident case?

Critical evidence includes:
– ECM/black box data
– ELD records
– Driver qualification files
– Maintenance records
– Inspection reports
– Drug and alcohol test results
– Cell phone records
– GPS/telematics data
– Dashcam footage
– Accident scene photos
– Witness statements
– Medical records

5. What are common causes of trucking accidents in Waco?

Common causes include:
– Driver fatigue (hours of service violations)
– Distracted driving (cell phone use, in-cab electronics)
– Speeding
– Mechanical failures (brake, tire, lighting issues)
– Improper cargo securement
– Driver impairment (drugs, alcohol)
– Inadequate training
– Poor maintenance
– Overloaded vehicles
– Road conditions (wet, debris, poor visibility)

6. What injuries are common in trucking accidents?

Due to the massive size and weight of commercial trucks, injuries are often catastrophic:
– Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
– Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
– Amputations
– Severe burns
– Internal organ damage
– Multiple fractures
– Crush injuries
– Wrongful death

7. How much is my trucking accident case worth?

Case value depends on many factors:
– Severity of injuries
– Medical expenses (past and future)
– Lost wages and earning capacity
– Pain and suffering
– Degree of defendant’s negligence
– Available insurance coverage

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits than typical auto policies, often $750,000 to $5,000,000 or more. This allows for larger recoveries in catastrophic injury cases.

8. Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court—and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.

9. How long will my case 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.

10. Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire Attorney911?

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.

The Bottom Line: You Don’t Have to Face This Alone

The Chilton crash on U.S. 77 is a tragic reminder of how quickly lives can change when mechanical failures and commercial trucks collide. If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Waco or anywhere in McLennan County, you need experienced legal representation to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years holding trucking companies accountable for their negligence. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and a track record of securing multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for trucking accident victims. Our team includes former insurance defense attorneys who know exactly how the other side operates—and how to beat them.

We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on families. That’s why we treat every client like family, providing compassionate, personalized representation from start to finish.

Don’t wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking accident cases. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests. You need someone fighting for you.

Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you take the first steps toward justice and recovery.

“When an 18-wheeler changes your family’s life forever, y’all need a lawyer who treats you like family.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

Additional Resources

Learn more about trucking accidents and your rights:

• The Victim’s Guide to 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries
• Truck Tire Blowouts and When You Need a Lawyer
• The Definitive Guide To Commercial Truck Accidents
• What to Do After a Car Accident?
• I’ve Had an Accident — What Should I Do First?

Remember: Evidence disappears fast. If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident in Waco, call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. Our team is standing by to help you protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.