18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Henry County, Iowa

When 80,000 Pounds Changes Your Life Forever

The corn fields of Henry County stretch for miles along Interstate 80, but that pastoral view can turn deadly in an instant. When an 80,000-pound semi-truck collides with a 4,000-pound passenger vehicle on Iowa’s busy corridors, physics doesn’t negotiate—and neither should you.

Every year, thousands of Iowa families see their lives transformed by commercial truck accidents. Unlike typical car crashes, 18-wheeler accidents involve federal regulations, multiple liable parties, and insurance policies worth millions. At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years standing between trucking companies and the victims they harm. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has recovered multi-million dollar settlements for families just like yours across Iowa and beyond.

If you’re reading this from a hospital bed in Henry County—or if you’re searching for answers after losing a loved one to a trucking accident on I-80—you need more than a lawyer. You need a fighter who understands Iowa’s modified comparative negligence rules, who knows the difference between CRST International and TMC Transportation, and who can mobilize within hours to preserve black box data before it disappears.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer 24/7. Hablamos Español.

Why Henry County 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different

The Physics of Devastation

An average sedan weighs 4,000 pounds. A fully loaded semi-truck traveling through Henry County on I-80 can weigh 80,000 pounds—that’s twenty times heavier. When that mass collides with your vehicle at highway speeds, the force is catastrophic.

But the physics tell only part of the story. Trucking accidents in Henry County carry unique complications:

Agricultural Traffic Patterns: Henry County sits in the heart of Iowa’s agricultural belt. During harvest season, combines and grain trucks share rural roads with commercial semis hauling pork, ethanol, and corn to processing facilities. This mixing of farm equipment and interstate commerce creates deadly blind spots and rollover risks.

I-80 Corridor Risks: Interstate 80 serves as the primary transcontinental freight corridor through Iowa. Trucks traveling from Chicago to Des Moines to Council Bluffs pass through Henry County around the clock. Driver fatigue becomes a critical factor on this straight, monotonous stretch—especially during Iowa’s notorious winter whiteouts.

Weather Extremes: Iowa winters bring blizzards that create black ice on I-80. Spring floods swell the Skunk River and tributaries that cross under highways. Summer brings severe thunderstorms that can flip empty trailers. These conditions trigger specific types of accidents—jackknifes on ice, rollovers from wind shear, and multi-vehicle pileups in fog.

As client Kiimarii Yup told us after we handled his case: “I lost everything… my car was at a total loss, and because of Attorney Manginello and my case worker Leonor, 1 year later I have gained so much in return.” That’s the difference experience makes.

Iowa Law & Your Rights After a Trucking Accident

The Clock Is Ticking: Iowa’s Statute of Limitations

You have two years from the date of your trucking accident in Henry County to file a lawsuit. That’s hard stop under Iowa Code § 614.1. Wait longer, and you lose your right to compensation forever—no matter how catastrophic your injuries.

But waiting even weeks is dangerous. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Witnesses forget details. Trucking companies “lose” driver qualification files. We don’t just meet deadlines—we beat evidence expiration.

Iowa’s Modified Comparative Fault Rule

Iowa follows a 51% bar rule. This means you can recover damages if you’re 50% or less at fault for the accident. However, your award is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re found 20% at fault, you recover 80% of your damages.

Trucking companies and their insurers know this rule. They’ll try to shift blame to you—claiming you were speeding, didn’t signal, or failed to avoid the collision. That’s why we immediately download ECM data and ELD logs that objectively show what happened, not what the truck driver claims happened.

The 10 Potentially Liable Parties in Your Henry County Case

Most people think you can only sue the truck driver. That’s exactly what the trucking company hopes you believe. In reality, multiple parties may owe you compensation:

1. The Truck Driver

Direct negligence includes speeding, distracted driving, Hours of Service violations under 49 CFR § 395, or operating while fatigued. We’ll subpoena cell phone records and ELD data to prove misconduct.

2. The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

Under respondeat superior, employers are liable for their drivers’ negligence. Plus, trucking companies can be directly liable for negligent hiring—putting an unqualified driver behind the wheel. We demand Driver Qualification Files per 49 CFR § 391.51 to check if they verified the driver’s CDL and medical certification.

3. The Cargo Owner/Shipper

Henry County’s agricultural economy means many trucks haul grain, hog feed, or ethanol. If the shipper demanded overweight loading that caused a rollover, or failed to disclose hazardous materials, they share liability.

4. The Loading Company

Third parties who loaded the cargo may have failed to secure it properly under 49 CFR § 393.100. Shifting loads cause rollovers—particularly dangerous on I-80’s curves near the Henry County line.

5. Truck/Trailer Manufacturer

Defective brakes, steering systems, or underride guards can trigger product liability claims. We investigate recalls and failure patterns.

6. Parts Manufacturers

Brake components that fail under Iowa’s freeze-thaw cycles or tires rated for insufficient load capacity can create liability for manufacturers.

7. Maintenance Companies

Third-party mechanics who performed negligent brake adjustments or missed critical defects during inspections violate 49 CFR § 396.3.

8. Freight Brokers

Brokers who arrange transport but fail to verify carrier safety ratings or insurance may be liable for negligent selection.

9. Truck Owner (If Different)

In owner-operator arrangements, the entity that owns the equipment may have separate maintenance obligations.

10. Government Entities

If poor road design, inadequate signage, or failure to clear ice contributed to your Henry County accident, state or county entities may share liability—though Iowa’s sovereign immunity laws create strict deadlines for notice.

As client Donald Wilcox said after we took his rejected case: “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.” We investigate every possible defendant because more liable parties mean more insurance coverage for you.

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Henry County

Jackknife Accidents

When a driver brakes suddenly on Iowa’s icy I-80, the trailer swings perpendicular to the cab, sweeping across lanes. These accidents often violate 49 CFR § 393.48 (brake system requirements) or § 392.6 (speeding for conditions). Jackknifes frequently cause multi-vehicle pileups during Henry County blizzards.

Rollover Accidents

Speeding on curves—common near the interchange with I-35—or taking ramps too fast causes 18-wheelers to tip. Improperly distributed grain loads from Henry County elevators contribute to these disasters. Rollovers violate cargo securement rules under 49 CFR § 393.100-136.

Underride Collisions

When a smaller vehicle slides under the truck’s trailer, the roof is sheared off. While 49 CFR § 393.86 requires rear impact guards, many are inadequately maintained. Side underride—where cars slide under the trailer from the side during a lane change—remains unregulated federally but constitutes gross negligence in Iowa courts.

Rear-End Collisions

Trucks need 525 feet to stop from 65 mph—double what cars need. Following too closely under 49 CFR § 392.11, or driving fatigued in violation of § 395.3, causes devastating rear-end crashes near Henry County weigh stations.

Wide Turn Accidents

Trucks swinging left before right turns often trap passenger vehicles in the “squeeze play.” This is particularly dangerous at rural intersections where farm equipment and semis share tight turning radii.

Tire Blowouts

Iowa’s extreme temperature swings—80°F in summer to -20°F in winter—degrade tires. Under 49 CFR § 393.75, trucks must maintain adequate tread depth. Blowouts cause loss of control and debris fields on I-80.

Brake Failures

Approximately 29% of truck crashes involve brake problems. Violations of 49 CFR § 396.3 (systematic maintenance) or § 393.40 (brake requirements) create liability when trucks can’t stop in time.

Cargo Spills

Unsecured grain, ethanol, or livestock can spill onto Henry County highways, creating secondary accidents. Federal rules under 49 CFR § 393 require securement systems to withstand specific forces—forces that failed in your accident.

The Critical Evidence: 48 Hours to Preserve Your Case

Trucking companies don’t wait to protect themselves. Within hours of an accident in Henry County, they deploy rapid-response teams—lawyers and investigators working to minimize their exposure. You need to move just as fast.

Black Box Data (ECM/EDR): Records speed, braking, RPM, and fault codes. Overwrites in 30 days.

Electronic Logging Devices (ELD): Required under 49 CFR § 395.8, these devices track Hours of Service compliance. They prove if the driver exceeded the 11-hour driving limit or violated the 14-hour duty window. FMCSA only requires 6-month retention—after that, it’s gone.

Driver Qualification Files: Under 49 CFR § 391.51, trucking companies must maintain records of the driver’s medical certification, training, and previous employment. These files often reveal a history of violations the company ignored.

Maintenance Records: 49 CFR § 396.3 requires systematic inspection records. Deferred maintenance—especially brake adjustments—proves negligence.

Cell Phone Records: Prove distraction at the moment of impact.

Witness Statements: Memories fade. We canvas immediately for drivers who saw the truck swerving or speeding.

The moment you hire Attorney911, we send spoliation letters to every potential defendant. This legal notice creates a duty to preserve evidence—and consequences if they destroy it. As one client noted: “They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”

Catastrophic Injuries & Your Recovery

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

The force of a trucking accident causes the brain to strike the skull. Symptoms include headaches, confusion, mood changes, and memory loss. Settlement values: $1,548,000 – $9,838,000+.

Spinal Cord Injury

Paralysis from spinal damage requires lifelong care. Costs exceed $3.5 million for quadriplegia. These cases demand compensation for lifetime nursing care and home modifications.

Amputation

Crushing injuries from underride or override accidents may require limb removal. Prosthetics cost $50,000+ and require replacement every few years. Settlement values: $1,945,000 – $8,630,000.

Severe Burns

Fuel fires from ruptured tanks or hazmat spills cause third-degree burns requiring skin grafts and reconstructive surgery.

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident takes a loved one in Henry County, surviving family members can recover lost income, loss of consortium, and mental anguish. Settlement values: $1,910,000 – $9,520,000.

As client Glenda Walker shared: “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” We calculate every future cost—medical, vocational, economic—to ensure you receive full compensation.

Iowa Trucking Insurance Requirements

Federal law requires commercial carriers to carry:

• $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
• $1,000,000 for oil and large equipment
• $5,000,000 for hazardous materials

Many Iowa carriers carry $1-5 million in coverage. But accessing these funds requires proving negligence under FMCSA regulations. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize your claim. Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows their playbook—now he works against them for you.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Henry County Case

Ralph Manginello: 25+ Years Fighting for Victims

Since 1998, Ralph has stood up to Fortune 500 companies. He litigated against BP in the Texas City Refinery explosion ($2.1 billion in total settlements). He’s currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against the University of Houston. He’s admitted to federal court (Southern District of Texas), critical for interstate trucking cases.

Lupe Peña: The Insurance Defense Advantage

Our associate attorney spent years inside a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how adjusters evaluate claims, what software they use (Colossus), and when they’re bluffing. That insider knowledge becomes your advantage when negotiating your settlement.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our documented recoveries include:

• $5+ Million for traumatic brain injury (logging accident)
• $3.8+ Million for partial leg amputation (car accident complications)
• $2.5+ Million for truck crash recovery
• $2+ Million for maritime back injury

Three Offices, Iowa Focus

With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve truck accident victims nationwide, including throughout the Midwest. We understand the unique aspects of Iowa’s agricultural trucking industry and winter weather accidents.

Spanish Language Services

Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish. If you or your family speaks Spanish as a primary language, we provide direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Contingency Fee Promise

You pay nothing unless we win. No upfront costs. We advance all investigation expenses, including accident reconstruction and expert witnesses.

FAQ: Henry County 18-Wheeler Accidents

How long do I have to file a lawsuit in Iowa?
Two years from the accident date under Iowa Code § 614.1. But evidence disappears much sooner—call immediately.

Can I recover if I was partially at fault?
Yes, under Iowa’s modified comparative negligence (51% bar rule). If you were 50% or less at fault, you recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault.

What is a spoliation letter?
A legal notice sent within 24-48 hours of retention demanding preservation of ECM data, ELD logs, maintenance records, and driver files. It prevents the trucking company from “losing” critical evidence.

Who can sue for wrongful death in Iowa?
The spouse, children, or parents of the deceased may bring wrongful death actions under Iowa law.

How much is my case worth?
Values depend on injury severity, medical costs, lost earning capacity, and insurance coverage. Trucking cases typically carry $750K-$5M in available coverage.

Will my case go to trial?
Most settle, but we prepare every case for trial. Insurance companies offer better settlements when they know your attorney will go the distance.

The Attorney911 Immediate Response Protocol

When you call 1-888-288-9911 within 24 hours of your Henry County trucking accident:

1. We send preservation letters to trucking companies, insurers, and maintenance providers
2. We subpoena ECM/ELD data before it overwrites
3. We investigate the driver’s Hours of Service compliance under 49 CFR § 395
4. We analyze the trucking company’s CSA scores and violation history
5. We retain accident reconstruction experts specific to Iowa’s I-80 corridor
6. We handle all communications with insurance adjusters
7. We ensure you receive medical care regardless of insurance status

Call Now. Evidence Is Disappearing.

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?

At Attorney911, we treat you like family, not a case number. As client Chad Harris said: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”

If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Henry County, Iowa—whether on I-80 near Mount Pleasant or on a rural road during harvest season—call us now.

1-888-ATTY-911
1-888-288-9911
(713) 528-9070

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

Hablamos Español. Lupe Peña está disponible para ayudarle.

Don’t let the trucking company win. Let’s fight back together.