18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys Serving Traverse County, Minnesota

When winter arrives in Traverse County, the already-dangerous job of hauling grain, equipment, and livestock across northwest Minnesota becomes deadly. An 80,000-pound tractor-trailer needs nearly two football fields to stop on dry pavement—on ice-covered US-75 or during a whiteout blizzard near Wheaton, that distance can double. If you or someone you love has been injured in a trucking accident anywhere in Traverse County, you need a legal team that understands both federal trucking regulations and the brutal reality of agricultural hauling on frozen prairie roads.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, has recovered multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against the largest trucking companies in America—including Fortune 500 giants like BP. Our firm includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years inside the system learning how carriers minimize claims; now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for victims like you. With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve clients across the United States, including the hardworking families of Traverse County who deserve justice when a negligent driver or careless trucking company changes their lives forever.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 right now for a free consultation. We advance all costs, and you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in Traverse County Demand Specialized Legal Experience

Traverse County sits in the heart of Minnesota’s Red River Valley, surrounded by some of the most productive agricultural land in the Upper Midwest. When harvest season hits, the narrow county highways around Wheaton, Browns Valley, and Dumont fill with massive combines, grain trucks, and 18-wheelers hauling soybeans, wheat, and sugar beets to market. Add in Minnesota’s brutal winters—where temperatures regularly plunge below zero and blizzards can white out US-75 in minutes—and you have a recipe for catastrophic trucking accidents.

But here’s what makes these cases different from a typical car wreck: When an 80,000-pound semi collides with a passenger vehicle on icy County Road 28, the damage isn’t just severe—it’s often fatal. And unlike standard auto accidents, commercial trucking cases involve multiple liable parties, federal safety regulations that most personal injury attorneys barely understand, and evidence that starts disappearing within days.

That’s why you need a firm that knows 49 CFR inside and out. Ralph Manginello has been handling commercial vehicle litigation since 1998. He’s admitted to federal court and understands how to navigate the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations that govern every aspect of trucking operations—from how long drivers can stay behind the wheel to how cargo must be secured when crossing frozen ground.

As client Chad Harris told us after we handled his trucking accident case: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” That’s the difference experience makes when you’re fighting for your future in Traverse County.

The Brutal Physics of Trucking Accidents on Traverse County Roads

Most folks driving through Traverse County on their way to Lake Traverse or the North Dakota border don’t realize how dangerous these rural highways become when fully loaded grain trucks start moving. The physics are simple but devastating:

• Weight disparity: A loaded 18-wheeler weighs up to 80,000 pounds—the legal maximum under 49 CFR § 658.17. Your average sedan weighs 3,500 pounds. In a collision, the truck wins every time.
• Stopping distances: On dry pavement at 65 mph, a truck needs 525 feet to stop. On the ice-glazed sections of MN-27 during a January storm, that distance can exceed 1,000 feet.
• Rollover risk: The high center of gravity in grain-hauling trucks makes them prone to tipping on the tight curves and soft shoulders common in Traverse County’s township roads.

We recently spoke with a client from nearby Roberts County who suffered catastrophic injuries when a grain truck rolled on a rural intersection. As Glenda Walker put it after we resolved her case: “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” That’s the level of advocacy you need when facing life-altering injuries.

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents Common in Traverse County

Jackknife Accidents on Icy Highways

When a truck driver brakes too hard on black ice along US-75 or County Road 6, the trailer can swing sideways, forming a 90-degree angle with the cab. These jackknife accidents often block both lanes of traffic, causing multi-vehicle pileups during whiteout conditions.

Under 49 CFR § 393.48, trucking companies must maintain brake systems to prevent exactly this type of failure. When they don’t—and when drivers exceed safe speeds for winter conditions—we hold them accountable.

Rollover Accidents on Soft Shoulders

Traverse County’s agricultural infrastructure means many heavy trucks travel narrow township roads with soft gravel shoulders. A fully loaded grain truck taking a corner too fast can easily roll, spilling tons of cargo and crushing anything in its path.

These accidents often involve cargo securement violations under 49 CFR § 393.100-136. Improperly loaded grain can shift dramatically during turns, creating an unstable center of gravity that even experienced drivers can’t correct.

Underride Collisions at Rural Intersections

Without the traffic lights and dedicated turn lanes found in Minneapolis, rural intersections in Traverse County rely on stop signs and right-of-way rules that truck drivers sometimes ignore. When a semi pulls out from a grain elevator onto MN-27 and misjudges oncoming traffic, passenger vehicles can slide underneath the trailer.

These underride accidents are among the deadliest. While 49 CFR § 393.86 mandates rear impact guards, many trailers have inadequate protection, and side underride guards remain unregulated despite known dangers.

Rear-End Collisions During Blizzard Conditions

Following too closely is dangerous everywhere. In Traverse County, where sudden ground blizzards can reduce visibility to near-zero in seconds, it’s deadly. Under 49 CFR § 392.11, truck drivers must maintain safe following distances appropriate for conditions—not just dry pavement.

When a fatigued trucker (violating 49 CFR § 395 Hours of Service rules) plows into stopped traffic during a whiteout, the results are catastrophic. We’ve seen cases where the ECM (electronic control module) data revealed the driver never even attempted to brake—often because they’d fallen asleep after driving beyond the 11-hour federal limit.

Tire Blowouts on Long Hauls

Extreme temperature fluctuations in northwest Minnesota—swinging from summer highs near 90°F to winter lows of -30°F—stress truck tires significantly. A blowout on US-75 at highway speeds creates an immediate loss of control.

49 CFR § 393.75 mandates minimum tread depths and tire conditions, yet we regularly find cases where trucking companies deferred maintenance to save costs, putting dangerous vehicles on Traverse County roads.

Lost Load Accidents During Harvest

From September through November, Traverse County roads fill with trucks hauling the harvest. When loaders fail to properly secure grain covers or heavy equipment, cargo spills create deadly obstacles for oncoming traffic.

These cases often involve multiple liable parties: the trucking company, the grain elevator that loaded the cargo, and sometimes the farm cooperative that set unrealistic delivery schedules pressuring drivers to rush.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Traverse County Trucking Accident?

Unlike a simple car accident where usually only one driver is at fault, 18-wheeler crashes involve complex webs of responsibility. We investigate every potentially liable party because more defendants means more insurance coverage—and better outcomes for our clients.

The Truck Driver

Driver negligence remains the primary cause of most accidents. We analyze:

• Hours of Service violations: Federal law limits driving to 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty (49 CFR § 395.3). ELD (electronic logging device) data often reveals violations.
• Distracted driving: 49 CFR § 392.82 prohibits hand-held mobile phone use while driving. Cell phone records can prove violations.
• Impairment: 49 CFR § 392.5 prohibits alcohol use within four hours of driving. Post-accident drug and alcohol testing is mandatory under 49 CFR § 382.303.
• Speeding for conditions: 49 CFR § 392.6 requires drivers to adjust speed for weather and road conditions—not just posted limits.

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million in liability coverage under federal law—far more than individual drivers. We pursue them under:

• Respondeat superior: Employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment.
• Negligent hiring: 49 CFR § 391 requires thorough background checks. We subpoena Driver Qualification Files to find failures.
• Negligent maintenance: 49 CFR § 396 mandates systematic inspection and repair programs. When companies skip brake inspections or defer tire replacements to save money, they pay.

The Cargo Owner and Loading Company

Traverse County’s economy runs on agriculture. When grain elevators or farm cooperatives overload trucks or fail to secure cargo properly, they become liable under 49 CFR § 393.100. We recently handled a case where improper loading caused a rollover that permanently disabled our client—securing a settlement in the millions.

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

Defective brakes, faulty steering systems, or tire manufacturing defects can cause accidents even when drivers operate responsibly. We work with mechanical engineers to identify product liability claims against manufacturers.

Freight Brokers

Companies that arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for negligent carrier selection—choosing trucking companies with poor safety records just to save a few dollars per mile.

Maintenance Companies

Third-party mechanics who perform negligent repairs or inspections can be held responsible when their failures cause crashes on I-29 or US-75.

The Evidence That Wins Traverse County Trucking Cases

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 within 24 hours of your accident. Here’s why the timeline matters:

• ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, throttle position, and fault codes. Can be overwritten in as little as 30 days.
• ELD Data: Proves Hours of Service violations. Required retention is only 6 months (49 CFR § 395.8).
• Dashcam Footage: Often deleted within 7-14 days if not preserved.
• Driver Qualification Files: Must be maintained for 3 years after employment ends (49 CFR § 391.51), but spoliation letters must be sent immediately to prevent destruction.

When you hire Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within hours—not weeks. We demand preservation of:

• All electronic data from the truck’s engine and cab
• Driver medical certifications and drug test results
• Maintenance and inspection records going back years
• Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
• Cell phone records proving distraction

As client Donald Wilcox told us: “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.” Other firms might drop complex trucking cases; we double down on the investigation.

Catastrophic Injuries and Your Future

Traverse County’s sparse population means trauma care requires airlift to Fargo or Sioux Falls—precious minutes that can mean the difference between recovery and permanent disability. The injuries we see from 18-wheeler accidents are life-changing:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

From concussions to severe diffuse axonal injury, brain trauma affects cognition, personality, and independence. Our firm has recovered $1.5 million to $9.8 million for TBI victims, accounting for lifetime care, lost earning capacity, and pain and suffering.

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

The force required to crush a passenger vehicle often fractures vertebrae, causing paraplegia or quadriplegia. These cases demand $4.7 million to $25.8 million settlements to cover wheelchairs, home modifications, and 24/7 care.

Amputations

When an underride collision or crushing injury requires limb removal, victims face prosthetics costs exceeding $50,000 per device, plus a lifetime of replacements. We’ve secured $1.9 million to $8.6 million for amputation clients.

Wrongful Death

When a Traverse County family loses a loved one to a negligent truck driver, Minnesota law allows recovery for lost income, loss of consortium, mental anguish, and funeral expenses. Our wrongful death settlements range from $1.9 million to $9.5 million, depending on the victim’s age and earning capacity.

Minnesota Law and Your Traverse County Case

Understanding local law is crucial:

Statute of Limitations: Under Minnesota Statutes § 541.05, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the statute is three years (Minnesota Statutes § 573.02).

Comparative Negligence: Minnesota follows a modified comparative fault rule with a 51% bar (Minnesota Statutes § 604.01). You can recover damages if you are 50% or less at fault, but your recovery is reduced by your fault percentage. At 51% or more, you recover nothing. This makes thorough investigation and evidence preservation critical.

Punitive Damages: Minnesota allows punitive damages for conscious disregard for safety (Minnesota Statutes § 549.20). No statutory caps limit these damages in trucking cases.

No-Fault Insurance: Minnesota is a no-fault state for auto accidents, meaning your own insurance pays initial medical bills regardless of fault. However, 18-wheeler accidents typically exceed no-fault thresholds immediately due to the severity of injuries, allowing direct claims against the trucking company.

Insurance Coverage in Commercial Trucking Cases

Federal law mandates minimum liability coverage far exceeding typical auto policies:

Most commercial carriers carry $1 million to $5 million in coverage. Unlike car accidents where policies might cap at $100,000, trucking accidents offer significant recovery potential—if you have an attorney who knows how to access these policies.

What to Do After a Trucking Accident in Traverse County

If you can safely do so immediately after the crash:

1. Call 911: Report all injuries. Request law enforcement and document the responding agencies.
2. Seek immediate medical care: Even if you feel fine—adrenaline masks serious injuries.
3. Document everything: Photograph the truck’s DOT number, license plates, company name, and all vehicle damage. Get witness names and contact information.
4. Do NOT give recorded statements: Insurance adjusters will call within hours. Politely decline until you speak with an attorney.
5. Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer 24/7. The sooner we start preserving evidence, the stronger your case.

Why Trucking Companies Fear Our Firm

We’re currently litigating a $10 million hazing lawsuit against the University of Houston and a major fraternity—demonstrating our willingness to take on powerful institutions. We’ve gone toe-to-toe with BP in the Texas City refinery explosion litigation, securing justice for workers injured in industrial disasters. And we have 251+ Google Reviews with a 4.9-star average because we treat clients like family, not case numbers.

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña brings something rare: insider knowledge from his years defending insurance companies. He knows every tactic adjusters use to minimize claims, and he uses that knowledge to maximize your recovery. Hablamos Español. For our Spanish-speaking clients in Traverse County’s agricultural community, Lupe provides direct representation without interpreters.

We work on contingency—33.33% pre-trial, 40% if trial is necessary. You pay nothing upfront. We advance all litigation costs. And with offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we have the resources to take on the largest trucking companies while providing personal attention you won’t find at big billboard firms.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traverse County Trucking Accidents

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Traverse County?

Two years from the accident date under Minnesota law. But waiting is dangerous—evidence disappears fast in trucking cases. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today.

Can I recover damages if I was partially at fault?

Yes, under Minnesota’s modified comparative negligence rule, you can recover if you were 50% or less at fault. However, your recovery is reduced by your fault percentage. At 51%, you recover nothing, so proving the truck driver’s negligence is critical.

What if the trucking company is from out of state?

We can still sue them in Minnesota federal court. Ralph Manginello’s federal court admission (Southern District of Texas) and multi-state experience means we can pursue defendants wherever they operate.

How much is my case worth?

Every case is unique. Factors include injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and insurance coverage. We’ve recovered millions for clients with catastrophic injuries, but we need to evaluate your specific situation.

Will my case go to trial?

Most settle, but we prepare every case for trial. Insurance companies know we’re willing to go to court—as evidenced by our multi-million dollar verdicts—which leads to better settlement offers.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

The trucking company may still be liable, or the driver may carry additional insurance. We investigate all potential coverage sources.

Do you handle cases where the trucking company destroyed evidence?

Yes. When companies violate spoliation letters or destroy ECM data, courts can impose sanctions, adverse inference instructions, or even default judgment. This can strengthen your case significantly.

Your Recovery Starts With One Call

Traverse County families work hard. When a negligent truck driver or careless trucking company destroys your health, your ability to work, or your family’s financial security through no fault of your own, you deserve justice. You deserve a team that will fight for “every dime” you deserve, as Glenda Walker experienced. You deserve attorneys who treat you like family, not a file number, as Chad Harris discovered.

You deserve Attorney911.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) right now. Free consultation. No fee unless we win. Available 24/7 for trucking accident emergencies.

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

Don’t let the trucking company win. Your fight starts now.