When an 80,000-pound truck changes your life on a Platte County highway, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a team that understands the stakes. We are Attorney911, and for over 25 years, Ralph Manginello has fought for trucking accident victims across Missouri and beyond. We know the I-29 corridor running through Platte County, the heavy freight traffic near Kansas City International Airport, and the agricultural trucks navigating our rural roads. More importantly, we know how to make trucking companies pay when their negligence causes catastrophic harm.
If you’re reading this after an 18-wheeler accident in Platte County, you’re likely facing medical bills that are piling up, income you’ve lost while recovering, and the overwhelming reality that the trucking company’s insurance team started building their defense before the ambulance even left the scene. That’s not fair—but it’s reality. And it’s exactly why you need someone fighting for you immediately.
The Devastating Reality of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Platte County
Every year, thousands of commercial trucks traverse Platte County’s highways, carrying goods along I-29, I-35, and the busy connectors serving Kansas City’s logistics hub. These aren’t just big cars—they’re 40-ton machines operated by drivers facing tight deadlines, often fighting fatigue, and sometimes pushing past federal safety limits.
The physics are brutal. When a fully loaded tractor-trailer collides with a passenger vehicle weighing 4,000 pounds, the energy transfer is catastrophic. It’s not a fair fight, and the occupants of the smaller vehicle almost always pay the price. In Missouri, pure comparative fault rules mean you can recover damages even if you were partially responsible—but the trucking companies and their insurers will do everything possible to shift blame onto you.
Here’s what makes these cases different from typical car accidents: trucking companies must follow Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations under 49 CFR Parts 390 through 399. These aren’t just guidelines—they’re federal law. When drivers violate hours-of-service rules under 49 CFR 395, or when companies fail to maintain brakes under 49 CFR 396, they’re not just negligent—they’re breaking federal statutes. That’s powerful leverage in your case, but only if your attorney knows how to use it.
Why Platte County Residents Choose Attorney911
Ralph Manginello has been practicing law since 1998, and in that time, he’s recovered millions for families devastated by commercial vehicle crashes. Our managing partner brings federal court experience—he’s admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas—and has taken on Fortune 500 companies in high-stakes litigation. When you hire Attorney911 for your Platte County trucking case, you’re getting a firm that treats you like family, not a file number.
As client Chad Harris told us after we resolved his case, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” That’s how we operate. We understand that behind every case is a person whose life has been upended, and we fight accordingly.
But we bring more than just compassion. We bring insider knowledge that other firms can’t match. Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working in insurance defense before joining Attorney911. He knows exactly how commercial trucking insurers evaluate claims, minimize payouts, and train their adjusters to deny legitimate claims. Now he uses that knowledge against them. When Lupe reviews your case, he’s predicting the defense’s next move before they make it—and countering it.
We also speak Spanish. If you’re more comfortable communicating in Spanish, Lupe Peña is fluent and provides direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.
Missouri Law Protects Platte County Trucking Accident Victims
Missouri offers significant advantages for injury victims compared to other states. First, you have five years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit—that’s longer than the two-year window in neighboring Kansas or the one-year limit in Tennessee. However, waiting is never wise. Evidence disappears fast in trucking cases. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses move away or forget details. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve critical evidence.
Missouri follows pure comparative fault rules, meaning you can recover damages even if you were 99% at fault for the accident—your recovery would simply be reduced by your percentage of fault. Compare that to Illinois or Texas, where being more than 50% at fault bars recovery entirely. This plaintiff-friendly approach means that even if you think you might have contributed to the crash, you should still call us for a free evaluation.
Importantly, Missouri struck down its punitive damage caps in 2012. That means if the trucking company acted with gross negligence—like knowingly keeping a dangerous driver on the road or falsifying hours-of-service logs to push drivers beyond safe limits—there’s no artificial ceiling on what a jury can award. We’ve seen verdicts across the country reach into the hundreds of millions when companies prioritize profits over safety.
Federal Regulations That Prove Negligence
Trucking companies don’t just owe you a duty of care—they owe you compliance with federal law. Under 49 CFR Part 390, trucking companies operating in interstate commerce must adhere to strict safety standards. When they cut corners, we use these violations to prove liability.
Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR 395):
Federal law limits property-carrying drivers to 11 hours of driving time after 10 consecutive hours off duty. They can’t drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty, and they must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving. Despite these rules, driver fatigue contributes to approximately 13% of commercial motor vehicle crashes. When we download Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data, we often find drivers who’ve pushed past these limits—sometimes at the direct pressure of their dispatchers.
Driver Qualification Failures (49 CFR 391):
Commercial drivers must hold a valid CDL, pass a physical exam every two years, and maintain a clean driving record. Their employers must keep a Driver Qualification File verifying these requirements. We’ve seen cases where trucking companies hired drivers with multiple DUI convictions or failed to verify medical certifications. That’s negligent hiring, and it makes the company directly liable for putting an unqualified operator on Platte County roads.
Vehicle Maintenance Neglect (49 CFR 396):
Brake problems contribute to 29% of truck crashes. Federal law requires systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of all commercial vehicles. Drivers must conduct pre-trip inspections, and companies must keep maintenance records for at least one year. When brakes fail because a carrier deferred maintenance to save money, we subpoena those records to prove the violation.
Cargo Securement (49 CFR 393):
Cargo must be secured to withstand forces of 0.8g deceleration forward and 0.5g acceleration rearward. When improperly loaded livestock, agricultural equipment, or freight shifts during transit, it can cause rollovers or spills. We’ve handled cases where loading companies failed to properly secure loads, and we pursue them alongside the trucking company.
The 18-Wheeler Accidents We See in Platte County
Our Platte County office regularly sees several types of commercial vehicle accidents, each requiring different investigative approaches:
Jackknife Accidents on I-29:
When a truck’s trailer swings perpendicular to the cab, it creates a 90-degree obstruction across multiple lanes. These often happen when drivers brake suddenly on the interstate or when empty trailers (common in agricultural transport) lack the weight to maintain traction. We analyze ECM data to determine if the driver was speeding for conditions or if brake imbalance caused the skid.
Underride Collisions:
Perhaps the most horrific truck accidents involve smaller vehicles sliding beneath the trailer. Despite federal requirements under 49 CFR 393.86 for rear underride guards on trailers manufactured after 1998, many trucks still lack adequate side underride protection. When a car strikes the side of a trailer during a lane change or intersection collision, the roof can be sheared off at windshield level. These accidents are often fatal, and we pursue wrongful death claims against trucking companies that failed to install adequate guards.
Rollover Accidents on Rural Routes:
Platte County’s mix of interstate highways and rural roads creates unique rollover risks. High-profile loads, liquid cargo slosh, or simply taking curves too fast on Route 45 or Route 92 can cause a truck to tip. These accidents frequently spill cargo, create secondary collisions, and cause devastating crushing injuries to occupants of nearby vehicles.
Blind Spot (“No-Zone”) Collisions:
18-wheelers have massive blind spots extending 20 feet in front, 30 feet behind, and alongside both sides of the rig. When truckers change lanes on I-435 or I-635 without properly checking mirrors—or when their mirrors were improperly adjusted—we hold them accountable for the resulting sideswipe or crush accidents.
Wide Turn Accidents:
Trucks making right turns often swing left first to accommodate the trailer’s tracking. Unsuspecting drivers in Platte County shopping districts or near the airport sometimes get caught in the “squeeze play,” trapped between the truck and a curb, leading to crushing injuries. These accidents often involve failure to signal or inadequate mirror checking.
Tire Blowouts:
Missouri’s temperature extremes—hot summers and frigid winters—stress truck tires. When poorly maintained tires blow at highway speeds, debris scatters across lanes, and the driver may lose control. We examine tire maintenance records to determine if the company failed to meet 49 CFR 393.75 standards for tire condition and tread depth.
Brake Failure Accidents:
Given the frequent stops required around Kansas City’s urban sprawl and the long descents on some Platte County approaches, brake fade is a real danger. When carriers skip required inspections or adjust brakes improperly to save time, the results can be catastrophic rear-end collisions at traffic signals.
Every Liable Party Pays
Unlike a simple fender-bender where usually just one driver is at fault, 18-wheeler accidents often involve multiple liable parties. We investigate and pursue claims against:
- The Truck Driver: For speeding, distraction, fatigue, or impairment
- The Trucking Company: Under respondeat superior (let the master answer) for their employee’s negligence, plus direct negligence for hiring, training, or maintenance failures
- The Cargo Owner/Shipper: For improper loading instructions or overweight loads
- The Loading Company: For failing to secure cargo per 49 CFR 393
- The Truck Manufacturer: For defective design or manufacturing of brakes, tires, or stability systems
- Parts Manufacturers: For defective components that failed
- Maintenance Companies: For negligent repairs or inspections
- Freight Brokers: For negligently selecting carriers with poor safety records
- The Truck Owner: For negligent entrustment if different from the carrier
- Government Entities: For dangerous road design or inadequate signage (though sovereign immunity applies)
The more defendants we can name, the more insurance coverage is available for your recovery. Federal law requires motor carriers to carry at least $750,000 in liability coverage for non-hazardous freight, $1 million for oil and hazardous materials, and $5 million for certain passenger operations. Many carry excess policies on top of these minimums.
The Evidence That Makes or Breaks Your Case
We cannot stress this enough: evidence disappears fast. Within 48 hours of your Platte County accident, critical data may be lost forever.
Electronic Control Module (ECM) Data:
Also called the “black box,” this records speed, brake application, throttle position, and fault codes. Some systems overwrite data within 30 days or after a certain number of ignition cycles. We send immediate preservation demands to prevent deletion.
Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs):
Since December 2017, federal law has required most trucks to have ELDs recording hours of service. These devices sync with the engine and GPS, creating tamper-resistant records of exactly when the driver was on duty, driving, and resting. When we find violations of the 11-hour driving limit or 14-hour duty window, we have proof of fatigue.
Driver Qualification Files:
These include employment applications, background checks, medical certifications, drug test results, and training records. Missing files or incomplete investigations into a driver’s history prove negligent hiring.
Maintenance Records:
Under 49 CFR 396.3, carriers must keep records showing systematic inspection and repair. When we find deferred brake repairs or ignored out-of-service violations, we prove the company chose profit over safety.
Cell Phone Records:
If the driver was texting or calling at the time of impact, that’s a violation of 49 CFR 392.80 and 392.82. We subpoena these records to prove distraction.
Dispatch Communications:
Sometimes the smoking gun is in writing: a dispatcher pressuring a driver to “make up time” or skip breaks to meet delivery windows. These messages prove the company culture encouraged violations.
As client Glenda Walker said after we resolved her case, “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” That’s only possible when we have the evidence to prove every penny of damages.
Catastrophic Injuries and Your Recovery
The injuries sustained in 18-wheeler accidents often change lives permanently. We have extensive experience handling:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI):
From mild concussions to severe diffuse axonal injuries, brain trauma can affect cognition, personality, and independence. We’ve recovered settlements ranging from $1.5 million to $9.8 million for TBI victims, accounting for lifetime care needs.
Spinal Cord Injuries:
Paraplegia and quadriplegia require wheelchairs, home modifications, and 24/7 care. Our spinal cord injury cases have resulted in recoveries between $4.7 million and $25.8 million, ensuring our clients have resources for the decades ahead.
Amputations:
Whether traumatic amputation at the scene or surgical removal due to crush injuries, losing a limb is life-altering. We’ve secured $1.9 million to $8.6 million for amputation victims, covering prosthetics, rehabilitation, and lost earning capacity.
Wrongful Death:
When negligence takes a loved one, Missouri law allows surviving spouses, children, and parents to recover damages for lost income, lost companionship, and mental anguish. While no amount brings them back, we’ve recovered $1.9 million to $9.5 million to provide financial security for grieving families.
As Ernest Cano, another satisfied client, noted: “Mr. Manginello and his firm are first class. Will fight tooth and nail for you.” When you’re facing these devastating injuries, you need someone who fights relentlessly.
What You Should Do Immediately After a Platte County Truck Accident
The steps you take in the hours and days following an 18-wheeler collision can significantly impact your case:
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Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even if you feel “fine,” adrenaline masks serious injuries. Traumatic brain injuries and internal bleeding may not show symptoms immediately. Documentation links your injuries to the crash.
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Call Law Enforcement: A police report creates an official record and may include the officer’s preliminary assessment of fault. In Missouri, accidents causing injury, death, or property damage over $500 must be reported.
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Document Everything: Use your phone to photograph vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signals, your injuries, and any visible cargo spills. Get contact information from witnesses—their testimony is invaluable before memories fade.
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Get the Trucking Company’s Information: Note the DOT number on the truck cab, the company name, driver name and CDL number, and insurance information. Take photos of all license plates.
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Do Not Give Recorded Statements: The trucking company’s insurance adjuster may call within hours. They are trained to get you to say things that minimize your claim. Politely decline to speak with them and refer them to your attorney.
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Call Attorney911 Immediately: The sooner we can send spoliation letters and preserve evidence, the stronger your case. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 or (888) 288-9911—our phones are answered 24/7.
Frequently Asked Questions for Platte County Truck Accident Victims
What if the trucking company offers me a settlement quickly?
Be extremely wary. Early offers are almost always “lowball” attempts to settle before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Once you accept, you waive your right to additional compensation. Never sign anything without legal review.
How long will my case take?
Simple cases with clear liability might resolve in 6-12 months. Complex litigation involving multiple defendants or catastrophic injuries can take 2-4 years. We work efficiently while ensuring you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
What if I was partially at fault?
Under Missouri’s pure comparative fault system, you can still recover, though your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Even if you were 50% responsible, you can recover 50% of your damages. Don’t let the trucking company convince you that you have no case.
Can I afford an attorney?
Yes. We work on contingency—our standard fee is 33.33% if settled before trial and 40% if we go to trial. You pay nothing upfront. We advance all litigation costs. If we don’t win, you don’t pay attorney fees. That means zero risk to you.
What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?
Trucking companies often claim drivers are independent contractors to avoid liability. However, under federal regulations and Missouri law, if the company controls the details of the driver’s work (routes, schedules, equipment), they may still be vicariously liable. We investigate the actual employment relationship.
Do I really need a lawyer, or can I handle this myself?
You can technically represent yourself, but we strongly advise against it. As client Angel Walle told us, “They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.” Trucking companies have teams of lawyers and adjusters. You need someone who knows the FMCSA regulations, understands Missouri personal injury law, and isn’t intimidated by corporate defense attorneys.
What is a spoliation letter?
It’s a formal legal notice sent to trucking companies demanding preservation of all evidence related to the crash—ELD data, maintenance records, driver files, etc. Once they receive it, destroying evidence becomes a serious legal violation that can result in court sanctions.
Will my case go to trial?
Most personal injury cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which attorneys are willing to go to court—and they offer better settlements to clients represented by trial-ready firms. With Ralph Manginello’s 25+ years of experience and Lupe Peña’s insider knowledge of insurance defense, we’re prepared to take your case all the way if necessary.
What makes Attorney911 different from the big billboard firms?
We treat you like family, not a case number. When Dame Haskett worked with us, she noted: “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer… Ralph reached out personally.” Our firm is small enough to give personal attention but experienced enough to take on the largest trucking companies—like the time we litigated against BP in the Texas City Refinery explosion or the current $10 million lawsuit we’re handling against the University of Houston.
Do you handle cases other than 18-wheeler accidents?
Yes. While we specialize in trucking litigation, Attorney911 handles all personal injury matters, including car accidents, motorcycle crashes, wrongful death, offshore injuries under the Jones Act, refinery accidents, and construction site injuries. Whatever type of injury you’ve suffered in Platte County due to someone else’s negligence, we can help.
Why Time Is Critical
Missouri’s five-year statute of limitations might seem generous, but in trucking cases, waiting even a few weeks can be disastrous. The truck’s black box data—the objective record of speed, braking, and engine performance—can be overwritten. The truck itself may be repaired or sold, destroying physical evidence of brake failure or tire defects. Witnesses’ memories fade. Surveillance video from nearby businesses gets deleted.
When you call 888-ATTY-911 or reach us at 1-888-288-9911, we immediately begin our 48-hour evidence preservation protocol. We send spoliation letters to the trucking company, their insurer, and any third parties. We deploy investigators to photograph the scene before skid marks fade or debris is cleared. We secure the truck’s ECM before it can be erased.
As client Mongo Slade told us after we resolved his rear-end collision case, “I was rear-ended and the team got right to work… I also got a very nice settlement.” That result came from fast action and thorough investigation.
Serving Platte County and Beyond
Attorney911 maintains offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, but we handle 18-wheeler cases throughout the United States, including Platte County, Missouri. Our federal court admissions allow us to practice in Missouri’s federal courts when necessary, and we associate with local counsel when needed to ensure full compliance with state-specific procedures. Whether your accident occurred on I-29 near Platte City, on the loop highways around Kansas City, or on the rural roads carrying agricultural freight, we have the resources to represent you effectively.
We understand the unique challenges of Platte County trucking accidents—the mix of urban commuter traffic and heavy freight, the weather conditions that can make I-35 treacherous in winter, and the specific courts serving Platte County residents. We’re familiar with the local trauma centers where you’re likely receiving treatment and understand the economic impact these injuries have on our community.
Call Attorney911 Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Platte County, every day you delay gives the trucking company more time to hide evidence and build their defense. You need someone fighting for you immediately.
Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 or (888) 288-9911. Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña are standing by 24/7 to discuss your case. The consultation is free, and you pay nothing unless we win.
Don’t let the trucking company push you around. With 25+ years of experience, federal court credentials, insider insurance knowledge, and a track record of multi-million dollar recoveries including a $5 million brain injury settlement, a $3.8 million amputation case, and a $2.5 million truck crash recovery, Attorney911 has the experience and determination to fight for every dollar you deserve.
Remember what client Greg Garcia said: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.” Other firms may turn you away or settle for quick, small checks. We fight for maximum compensation.
Call 888-ATTY-911 today. Hablamos Español. Your recovery starts with one conversation.
