18-Wheeler & Trucking Accident Attorneys in Harrison County, Mississippi

When 80,000 Pounds Changes Everything

The Gulf Coast highways running through Harrison County carry some of the heaviest commercial truck traffic in Mississippi. From the Port of Gulfport to the casinos along Beach Boulevard, 18-wheelers move cargo day and night. When one of these massive vehicles crashes into a passenger car, the results are catastrophic.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a trucking accident in Harrison County, you need more than a personal injury lawyer. You need a team that understands federal trucking regulations, knows how to preserve critical evidence, and has the resources to take on major trucking companies. At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has recovered multi-million dollar settlements for families just like yours—and our associate attorney Lupe Peña brings insider knowledge from his years working in insurance defense.

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 today.

Why Harrison County 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different

Harrison County sits at the intersection of major freight corridors. Interstate 10 runs east-west along the Gulf Coast, connecting Florida to Texas. Interstate 59 brings traffic from the north, funneling through the county before continuing toward New Orleans. U.S. Highway 49 serves as a critical north-south artery, carrying port traffic inland.

This concentration of trucking routes creates unique dangers:

Port-Related Traffic: The Port of Gulfport generates substantial container and bulk cargo movement. Trucks leaving the port often carry heavy loads, and drivers may be operating on tight schedules that encourage hours-of-service violations.

Casino and Tourism Traffic: Beach Boulevard and the casino district see heavy mixing of commercial trucks with passenger vehicles, pedestrians, and tourists unfamiliar with local roads. This creates conditions ripe for blind spot accidents and wide turn collisions.

Weather Hazards: Harrison County faces hurricanes, tropical storms, and sudden severe thunderstorms that can reduce visibility and create slick road surfaces. Truck drivers who fail to adjust for conditions cause jackknife and rollover accidents.

Construction Zones: Ongoing infrastructure improvements along I-10 and other corridors create narrow lanes and sudden traffic pattern changes that challenge even experienced truck drivers.

When a trucking accident happens in Harrison County, you need attorneys who understand these local factors and how they contribute to crashes.

The 10 Parties Who May Owe You Compensation

Most law firms only look at the truck driver and trucking company. 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 your accident may be personally liable for negligent conduct: speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, impairment, or traffic violations. We subpoena their driving record, ELD data, cell phone records, and drug test results.

2. The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

This is often your primary recovery target. Under respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts. Plus, trucking companies can be directly liable for:

• Negligent hiring – failing to check driver backgrounds
• Negligent training – inadequate safety instruction
• Negligent supervision – ignoring known safety violations
• Negligent maintenance – deferring critical repairs
• Negligent scheduling – pressuring drivers to violate hours-of-service rules

Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million in insurance—far more than individual drivers.

3. The Cargo Owner / Shipper

Companies that own the cargo may be liable if they:

• Required overweight loading
• Failed to disclose hazardous materials
• Pressured the carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
• Provided improper loading instructions

4. The Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loaders may be liable for:

• Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
• Unbalanced load distribution
• Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
• Inadequate loader training

5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturers

Defective design or manufacturing can create liability for:

• Brake system failures
• Stability control defects
• Fuel tank placement causing fires
• Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)

6. Parts Manufacturers

Companies that make specific components may be liable for defective:

• Brakes or brake components
• Tires causing blowouts
• Steering mechanisms
• Lighting components
• Coupling devices

7. Maintenance Companies

Third-party repair shops 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

8. Freight Brokers

Brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for:

• Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
• Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
• Ignoring carrier CSA scores to select cheapest option

9. Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may have separate liability for negligent entrustment or failure to maintain owned equipment.

10. Government Entities

Federal, state, or local government may be liable for:

• Dangerous road design
• Failure to maintain roads
• Inadequate signage for known hazards
• Improper work zone setup

Note: Government claims have strict notice requirements and shorter deadlines. Sovereign immunity may limit recovery.

FMCSA Regulations That Prove Negligence

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict rules for commercial trucking. When trucking companies violate these regulations, they create dangerous conditions—and we use those violations to prove negligence in your case.

49 CFR Part 391 — Driver Qualification Standards

Who Can Drive a Commercial Truck:

Federal law requires every commercial driver to:

• Be at least 21 years old (interstate commerce)
• Read and speak English sufficiently
• Pass a physical examination every 2 years (or more frequently if conditions warrant)
• Hold a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
• Complete required entry-level driver training
• Pass a road test or equivalent

The Driver Qualification File:

Every trucking company must maintain a complete file for each driver containing:

• Employment application and background check
• Motor vehicle record from all states where licensed
• Medical examiner’s certificate
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Annual driving record reviews
• Previous employer inquiries (3-year history)

How This Helps Your Case:

If the trucking company failed to maintain a proper DQ file, hired a driver with a poor safety record, or allowed someone to drive without valid certification, we can prove negligent hiring. This often supports punitive damages claims.

49 CFR Part 392 — Driving of Commercial Motor Vehicles

Fatigued Driving Prohibition (§ 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 fatigued driving causes an accident.

Drug and Alcohol Prohibitions (§§ 392.4-392.5):

• No Schedule I substance use while on duty
• No amphetamine, narcotic, or impairing substance use
• No alcohol within 4 hours of driving
• No alcohol while on duty
• Blood alcohol concentration must be below 0.04 (half the standard 0.08)

Following Too Closely (§ 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 (§ 392.82):

• Hand-held mobile telephone use prohibited while driving
• Texting while driving prohibited
• Reaching for phone in unsafe manner prohibited

49 CFR Part 393 — Parts and Accessories for Safe Operation

Cargo Securement (§§ 393.100-136):

Federal law requires cargo to be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent:

• Leaking, spilling, blowing, or falling from the vehicle
• Shifting that affects vehicle stability or maneuverability
• Blocking the driver’s view or interfering with operation

Performance Criteria:

Cargo securement systems must withstand:

• Forward: 0.8 g deceleration (sudden stop)
• Rearward: 0.5 g acceleration
• Lateral: 0.5 g (side-to-side)
• Downward: At least 20% of cargo weight if not fully contained

Tiedown Requirements:

• Aggregate working load limit must be at least 50% of cargo weight for loose cargo
• At least one tiedown for cargo 5 feet or less in length
• At least two tiedowns for cargo over 5 feet or under 1,100 lbs
• Additional tiedowns for every 10 feet of cargo length

Brake Requirements (§§ 393.40-55):

All CMVs must have properly functioning brake systems:

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

Lighting Requirements (§§ 393.11-26):

Required lighting includes:

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

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 (§ 395.1(g)):

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

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

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Mandate (§ 395.8):

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

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

Why ELD Data Is Critical Evidence:

ELDs prove:

• Exactly how long the driver was on duty
• Whether breaks were taken as required
• Speed before and during the accident
• GPS location history
• Any HOS violations

We send spoliation letters within 24 hours to preserve this data before it’s overwritten.

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
• Emergency equipment

Annual Inspection (§ 396.17):

Every CMV must pass a comprehensive annual inspection covering 16+ systems. Inspection decal must be displayed. Records must be retained for 14 months.

Maintenance Record Retention (§ 396.3):

Motor carriers must maintain records for each vehicle showing:

• Identification (make, serial number, year, tire size)
• Schedule for inspection, repair, and maintenance
• Record of repairs and maintenance
• Records must be retained for 1 year

Why This Matters: Brake failures cause 29% of truck accidents. If the trucking company failed to maintain proper records or deferred maintenance, they are liable for negligence.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

Why Every Hour Matters

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 Evidence 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 Evidence 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 background check
• Driving record check
• Previous employer verification
• Medical certification and exam records
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Training documentation

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

Catastrophic Injuries: The Human Cost of Trucking Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception.

Size and Weight Disparity

Factor	18-Wheeler	Passenger Car	Ratio
Maximum Weight	80,000 lbs	3,500-4,000 lbs	20-25x
Stopping Distance at 65 mph	~525 feet	~300 feet	75% longer
Height	13.5 feet	4-5 feet	3x

Impact Force: An 80,000-pound truck at 65 mph carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a passenger car. This energy transfers to the smaller vehicle in a crash.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In 18-wheeler accidents, extreme forces cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull.

Severity Levels:

Level	Symptoms	Typical Settlement Range
Mild (Concussion)	Confusion, headache, brief loss of consciousness	$15,000 – $60,000
Moderate	Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits	$346,000 – $1,205,000
Severe	Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment	$1,548,000 – $9,838,000+

Long-Term Consequences:

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

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

Spinal Cord Injury

Damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of Paralysis:

Type	Definition	Lifetime Care Costs
Paraplegia	Loss of function below the waist	$1.1 million – $2.5 million+
Quadriplegia	Loss of function in all four limbs	$3.5 million – $5 million+
Incomplete Injury	Some nerve function remains	Varies widely
Complete Injury	No nerve function below injury	Highest costs

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

Amputation

Types:

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

Common in 18-Wheeler Accidents Due To:

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

Ongoing Medical Needs:

• Initial surgery and hospitalization
• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ per prosthetic)
• Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Occupational therapy for daily living skills
• Psychological counseling

Settlement Range: $1,945,000 – $8,630,000

Severe Burns

How Burns Occur in 18-Wheeler Accidents:

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

Burn Classification:

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

Internal Organ Damage

Common Internal Injuries:

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

Why Dangerous:

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

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. In Mississippi, you have three years from the date of death to file.

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim:

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

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
• Pain and suffering experienced by decedent
• Punitive damages (if gross negligence proven)

Settlement Range: $1,910,000 – $9,520,000+

Mississippi Law: What Harrison County Accident Victims Need to Know

Statute of Limitations

In Mississippi, you have three years from the date of your trucking accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the three-year period runs from the date of death.

Don’t wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. The trucking company is already building their defense. Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911.

Comparative Negligence

Mississippi follows pure comparative fault. This means you can recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident—but your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, if you were 30% at fault and your damages total $1 million, you would recover $700,000 (70% of the total).

This is more favorable than some neighboring states. Alabama, for instance, follows contributory negligence—if you’re even 1% at fault, you recover nothing. Mississippi’s pure comparative fault rule protects accident victims.

Damage Caps

Mississippi caps non-economic damages (pain and suffering, mental anguish) at $1,000,000 in most personal injury cases. However, there is no cap on economic damages (medical bills, lost wages) or punitive damages in most circumstances.

For trucking accidents involving catastrophic injuries, the economic damages often far exceed the non-economic cap anyway—making the cap less significant in practice.

Federal Trucking Regulations Apply

Because commercial trucking involves interstate commerce, federal FMCSA regulations apply in Mississippi regardless of state law. This is powerful for your case—federal regulations are often stricter than state rules, and violations create automatic negligence.

Common 18-Wheeler Accident Types in Harrison County

Jackknife Accidents

A jackknife occurs when the trailer and cab skid in opposite directions, with the trailer folding at an angle like a pocket knife. The trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often sweeping across multiple lanes.

Why This Happens on Harrison County Roads:

I-10 and I-59 carry heavy truck traffic through curves and interchanges. Sudden braking—whether for traffic, construction, or weather—can cause jackknifes. Empty or lightly loaded trailers are especially prone to swinging.

Common Causes:

• Sudden or improper braking, especially on wet roads
• Speeding on curves
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers
• Improperly loaded or unbalanced cargo
• Brake system failures
• Driver inexperience with emergency maneuvers

FMCSA Violations:

• 49 CFR § 393.48 — Brake system malfunction
• 49 CFR § 393.100 — Improper cargo securement
• 49 CFR § 392.6 — Speeding for conditions

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

Rollover Accidents

A rollover occurs when an 18-wheeler tips onto its side or roof. Due to high center of gravity and massive weight, rollovers are among the most catastrophic accidents.

Why This Happens in Harrison County:

The curved ramps connecting I-10 and I-59, along with the elevated sections of highway near the coast, create rollover risks. Tropical storms and hurricanes bring high winds that can topple trailers. The Port of Gulfport generates heavy container traffic where load shifts can destabilize trucks.

Common Causes:

• Speeding on curves, ramps, or turns
• Taking turns too sharply
• Improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo
• Liquid cargo “slosh” shifting center of gravity
• Overcorrection after tire blowout
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reaction
• High winds (especially during storm season)

FMCSA Violations:

• 49 CFR §§ 393.100-136 — Cargo securement violations
• 49 CFR § 392.6 — Exceeding safe speed
• 49 CFR § 392.3 — Operating while fatigued

Injuries: Crushed vehicles, fuel fires causing severe burns, TBI, spinal cord injuries, wrongful death

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 shears off the passenger compartment at windshield level.

Why This Is Especially Dangerous on Harrison County Highways:

The mix of local traffic, tourists unfamiliar with the area, and heavy commercial vehicles creates underride risks. The casino district along Beach Boulevard sees frequent stopping and starting traffic where rear underrides occur. The curved interchanges between I-10 and I-59 create side underride dangers when trucks make wide turns.

Statistics:

• Among the most FATAL types of 18-wheeler accidents
• Approximately 400-500 underride deaths occur annually in the United States
• Side underride has no federal guard requirement

Types:

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

Common Causes:

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

Evidence to Gather:

• Underride guard inspection and maintenance records
• Rear lighting compliance documentation
• Crash dynamics showing underride depth
• Guard installation and certification records

FMCSA/NHTSA Requirements:

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

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

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 massive weight and longer stopping distances, these accidents cause devastating injuries.

Why This Happens on Harrison County Roads:

Heavy traffic on I-10, especially near the Mississippi State Port Authority facilities and the casino district, creates stop-and-go conditions where rear-end collisions occur. Tourists unfamiliar with local traffic patterns may stop unexpectedly. Truck drivers who are fatigued from long hauls or distracted by dispatch communications fail to stop in time.

Statistics:

• 18-wheelers require 20-40% more stopping distance than passenger vehicles
• A fully loaded truck at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to stop (nearly two football fields)
• Rear-end collisions are the second most common type of large truck crash

Common Causes:

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

FMCSA Violations:

• 49 CFR § 392.11 — Following too closely
• 49 CFR § 392.3 — Operating while fatigued
• 49 CFR § 392.82 — Mobile phone use
• 49 CFR § 393.48 — Brake system deficiencies

Injuries: Whiplash, spinal cord injuries, TBI from impact, internal organ damage, crushing injuries when vehicle is pushed into other objects, wrongful death

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.

Why This Is Common in Harrison County:

The tight intersections in downtown Gulfport, the casino district along Beach Boulevard, and the industrial areas near the port all create conditions where wide turns are necessary. Passenger vehicle drivers unfamiliar with truck maneuvering may not understand the danger of entering the gap. Tourists and local drivers alike get caught in “squeeze play” situations.

Why Trucks Make Wide Turns:

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

Common Causes:

• Failure to properly signal turning intention
• Inadequate mirror checks before and during turn
• Improper turn technique (swinging too early or too wide)
• Driver inexperience with trailer tracking
• Failure to yield right-of-way when completing turn
• Poor intersection design forcing wide turns

Evidence to 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

FMCSA Violations:

• 49 CFR § 392.11 — Unsafe lane changes
• 49 CFR § 392.2 — Failure to obey traffic signals

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

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).

Why This Is a Major Problem on Harrison County Highways:

The heavy mixing of local traffic, tourists, and commercial vehicles on I-10, I-59, and U.S. 49 creates constant lane-changing situations. Drivers unfamiliar with truck blind spots may linger in dangerous positions. The casino district and port areas see frequent truck movements in heavy traffic where blind spot accidents occur.

The Four No-Zones:

Zone	Location	Danger Level
Front No-Zone	20 feet directly in front of cab	High — driver cannot see low vehicles
Rear No-Zone	30 feet behind trailer	High — no rear-view mirror visibility
Left Side No-Zone	Extends from cab door backward	Moderate — smaller than right side
Right Side No-Zone	Extends from cab door backward, much larger	MOST DANGEROUS

Statistics:

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

Common Causes:

• Failure to check mirrors before lane changes
• Improperly adjusted or damaged mirrors
• Inadequate mirror checking during sustained maneuvers
• Driver distraction during lane changes
• Driver fatigue affecting situational awareness
• Failure to use turn signals allowing other drivers to anticipate

Evidence to 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
• Witness statements on truck behavior

FMCSA Requirements:

• 49 CFR § 393.80 — Mirrors must provide clear view to rear on both sides
• Proper mirror adjustment is part of driver pre-trip inspection

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

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.

Why This Is Common in Harrison County:

The extreme summer heat on Mississippi’s Gulf Coast, combined with heavy port traffic and long hauls on I-10, creates conditions where tire failures are more likely. The mix of local delivery trucks and over-the-road tractors means varying maintenance standards. Hurricane season brings additional hazards when trucks operate in severe weather conditions.

Statistics:

• 18-wheelers have 18 tires, each of which can fail
• Steer tire (front) blowouts are especially dangerous—can cause immediate loss of control
• “Road gators” (tire debris) cause thousands of accidents annually

Common Causes:

• Underinflated tires causing overheating
• Overloaded vehicles exceeding tire capacity
• Worn or aging tires not replaced
• Road debris punctures
• Manufacturing defects
• Improper tire matching on dual wheels
• Heat buildup on long hauls
• Inadequate pre-trip tire inspections

Evidence to 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
• Failed tire for defect analysis

FMCSA Requirements:

• 49 CFR § 393.75 — Tire requirements (tread depth, condition)
• 49 CFR § 396.13 — Pre-trip inspection must include tire check
• Minimum tread depth: 4/32″ on steer tires, 2/32″ on other positions

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

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.

Why This Is Critical in Harrison County:

The stop-and-go traffic on I-10 near Gulfport, the steep grades on some highway approaches, and the heavy port traffic all stress brake systems. The humid, salty Gulf Coast air accelerates corrosion of brake components. Trucks operating in Harrison County may have come from long hauls where brake fade has already begun.

Statistics:

• Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes
• Brake system violations are among the most common FMCSA out-of-service violations
• Complete brake failure is often the result of systematic maintenance neglect

Common Causes:

• Worn brake pads or shoes not replaced
• Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
• Air brake system leaks or failures
• Overheated brakes (brake fade) on long descents
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Defective brake components
• Failure to conduct pre-trip brake inspections
• Deferred maintenance to save costs

Evidence to 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)
• Mechanic work orders and parts records

FMCSA Requirements:

• 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
• Air brake pushrod travel limits specified

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

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.

Why This Is a Major Concern in Harrison County:

The Port of Gulfport generates massive container traffic. Trucks leaving the port carry everything from heavy machinery to hazardous materials. The casino and tourism industry requires frequent deliveries. When cargo isn’t properly secured—whether it’s a container that shifts, heavy equipment that breaks loose, or hazardous materials that spill—the consequences for Harrison County drivers can be devastating.

Statistics:

• Cargo securement violations are among the top 10 most common FMCSA violations
• Shifted cargo causes rollover accidents when center of gravity changes
• Spilled cargo on highways causes secondary accidents

Types:

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

Common Causes:

• Inadequate tiedowns (insufficient number or strength)
• Improper loading distribution
• Failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats
• Tiedown failure due to wear or damage
• Overloading beyond securement capacity
• Failure to re-inspect cargo during trip
• Loose tarps allowing cargo shift

Evidence to Gather:

• Cargo securement inspection photos
• Bill of lading and cargo manifest
• Loading company records
• Tiedown specifications and condition
• 49 CFR 393 compliance documentation
• Driver training on cargo securement

FMCSA Requirements:

• 49 CFR §§ 393.100-136 — Complete cargo securement standards
• Working load limits for tiedowns specified
• Specific requirements by cargo type (logs, metal coils, machinery, etc.)

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

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions occur when an 18-wheeler crosses into oncoming traffic and strikes vehicles traveling in the opposite direction.

Why This Is a Critical Risk in Harrison County:

U.S. Highway 49 and portions of Mississippi Highway 53 are two-lane roads where head-on collisions can occur. Driver fatigue from long hauls on I-10 or I-59 can cause lane departures. The rural stretches of Harrison County have limited median barriers, meaning a moment’s inattention can send a truck into oncoming traffic with devastating results.

Statistics:

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

Common Causes:

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

Evidence to 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
• Route and dispatch records

FMCSA Violations:

• 49 CFR § 395 — Hours of service violations
• 49 CFR § 392.3 — Operating while fatigued
• 49 CFR §§ 392.4/5 — Drug or alcohol violations
• 49 CFR § 392.82 — Mobile phone use

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

Your Rights Under Mississippi and Federal Law

Mississippi’s Pure Comparative Fault System

Unlike neighboring Alabama, which bars any recovery if you’re even 1% at fault, Mississippi allows you to recover damages regardless of your fault percentage—as long as someone else was also at fault. Your recovery is simply reduced by your percentage of responsibility.

Example: If you’re found 40% at fault and your damages total $1 million, you recover $600,000.

This system protects Harrison County accident victims who may have made minor errors—like momentary distraction—while the truck driver committed more serious violations.

Federal Regulations Create Automatic Negligence

Because commercial trucking involves interstate commerce, federal FMCSA regulations apply throughout Mississippi. When we prove a trucking company violated these regulations, we often establish negligence per se—meaning the violation itself proves negligence without requiring additional evidence.

Key Regulations We Use:

Regulation	Violation	How It Proves Negligence
49 CFR § 395.3	Driving beyond 11-hour limit	Fatigue caused the crash
49 CFR § 391.11	Unqualified driver	Company hired dangerously
49 CFR § 393.100	Improper cargo securement	Load shift caused rollover
49 CFR § 396.3	Deferred maintenance	Known defect caused failure
49 CFR § 392.82	Texting while driving	Distracted driving proven

The Evidence That Wins Cases

Electronic Data: The Objective Truth

Commercial trucks generate massive amounts of electronic data that often contradicts what drivers claim. We subpoena and analyze:

ECM/Black Box Data:

• Speed before and during crash
• Brake application timing and force
• Throttle position
• Cruise control status
• Engine fault codes
• Steering input

ELD (Electronic Logging Device) Data:

• Hours of service compliance
• Driving time vs. on-duty time
• Rest break compliance
• GPS location history
• Route taken

Telematics and GPS:

• Real-time location tracking
• Speed by location
• Driver behavior scores
• Hard braking events
• Rapid acceleration

Dashcam Footage:

• Forward-facing camera video
• Driver-facing camera (if equipped)
• Audio of driver communications

Physical Evidence

• The truck and trailer themselves — for inspection of brakes, tires, lighting, underride guards
• Failed components — tires, brake parts, steering components for defect analysis
• Cargo and securement devices — to prove loading negligence
• Skid marks and debris — for accident reconstruction

Documentary Evidence

• Driver Qualification File — or proof it doesn’t exist
• Maintenance records — showing deferred repairs or inspection failures
• Dispatch records — revealing schedule pressure
• Drug and alcohol test results — post-accident testing is required
• Cell phone records — proving distraction
• Insurance policies — all layers of coverage

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Harrison County Trucking Accident

25+ Years of Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against the largest trucking companies in America. He’s admitted to federal court, which matters because trucking cases often involve interstate commerce and federal regulations.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Your Side

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working at a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how trucking insurers evaluate claims, train their adjusters to minimize payouts, and deny legitimate claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight FOR you—not against you.

As Lupe told ABC13 Houston in our $10 million University of Houston hazing case: “If this prevents harm to another person, that’s what we’re hoping to do. Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.”

That same fighting spirit applies to every trucking accident case we handle.

We Take Cases Other Firms Reject

Donald Wilcox came to us after another firm said they wouldn’t accept his case. We took it on—and he got what he called “a handsome check.” Greg Garcia’s previous attorney dropped his case, but we helped him out. Beth Bonds had been trying for over two years to get a bogus case dismissed; Ralph had it dismissed within a week.

We don’t turn away difficult cases. We fight for the underdog.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our track record speaks for itself:

• $5+ million — Traumatic brain injury from falling log at logging company
• $3.8+ million — Partial leg amputation after car accident with medical complications
• $2.5+ million — Commercial truck crash recovery
• $2+ million — Maritime back injury under Jones Act
• Millions recovered — Multiple wrongful death trucking cases

4.9-Star Client Satisfaction

Our clients say it better than we ever could:

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

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

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

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

“Ralph reached out personally.” — Dame Haskett

Three Office Locations, Serving Harrison County

With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we’re never far from Harrison County. We regularly handle cases throughout Mississippi and across the Gulf Coast. Our federal court admission means we can represent you in interstate trucking cases regardless of where the trucking company is based.

Hablamos Español

Many trucking accident victims in Harrison County speak Spanish as their primary language. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Frequently Asked Questions: Harrison County 18-Wheeler Accidents

Immediate After-Accident Questions

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

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

• Call 911 and report the accident
• Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
• Document the scene with photos and video if possible
• Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
• Collect witness contact information
• Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company
• Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately

Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?

YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Harrison 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 Harrison County?

Document everything possible:

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

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 Harrison 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.

Trucking Company & Driver Questions

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

Multiple parties may be liable in trucking accidents:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company/motor carrier
• The cargo owner or shipper
• The company that loaded the cargo
• Truck or parts manufacturers
• Maintenance companies
• Freight brokers
• The truck owner (if different from carrier)
• Government entities (for road defects)

We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?

Usually YES. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for:

• Negligent hiring — hiring unqualified drivers
• Negligent training — inadequate safety instruction
• Negligent supervision — failing to monitor driver behavior
• Negligent maintenance — poor vehicle upkeep
• Negligent scheduling — pressuring drivers to violate hours-of-service rules

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

Mississippi uses a pure comparative fault system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation—your recovery is simply reduced by your percentage of fault. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence (especially ECM and ELD data), and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs—the data tells the true story.

Evidence & Investigation Questions

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

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

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

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

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

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

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

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
• 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)
• Failure to inspect vehicles

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 minimize your claim. Their rapid-response team may already be at the accident scene gathering evidence to protect them—not you.

What are you doing to protect yourself?

At Attorney911, we level the playing field. We send spoliation letters within hours. We subpoena black box data before it’s overwritten. We investigate every potentially liable party. We build cases that trucking companies and their insurers can’t ignore.

Ralph Manginello has spent over 25 years making trucking companies pay. He’s recovered millions for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background gives us insider knowledge of how the other side operates. Together, they form a team that fights for Harrison County accident victims with skill, experience, and relentless determination.

You pay nothing unless we win. We work on contingency. We advance all costs. You never receive a bill from us.

Hablamos Español. Lupe Peña provides fluent Spanish representation without interpreters.

Available 24/7. Trucking accidents don’t happen on business hours. Neither do we.

Call Attorney911 Now: 1-888-ATTY-911

Free consultation. No obligation. Just answers.

The clock started the moment that truck hit you. Within 48 hours, critical evidence can be overwritten—and the trucking company knows it. Call now before it’s gone: 1-888-ATTY-911.

Attorney911 / The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC
Houston • Austin • Beaumont
Serving Harrison County, Mississippi and the entire Gulf Coast

1-888-ATTY-911 | (888) 288-9911 | ralph@atty911.com