Mora County 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys: Fighting for Truck Crash Victims Across Northern New Mexico

When 80,000 Pounds Changes Everything in Mora County

The mountain curves of I-25 through Mora County don’t forgive mistakes. When an 18-wheeler loses control on the steep grades near Watrous or brakes fail on the descent toward Mora, physics takes over—and lives change forever. If you’re reading this because a commercial truck accident shattered your family’s peace on a Mora County highway, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to face the trucking companies by yourself.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for accident victims across Texas and New Mexico. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has recovered multi-million dollar settlements for families devastated by catastrophic trucking accidents. We know the unique dangers of trucking in Mora County’s mountainous terrain, from the high-altitude passes that strain brake systems to the long stretches of I-25 where driver fatigue becomes deadly.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate help. We answer 24/7.

Why Mora County Truck Accidents Demand Specialized Legal Experience

Mora County sits at the crossroads of major freight corridors connecting Colorado to Albuquerque and beyond. I-25 cuts through the heart of the county, carrying everything from agricultural produce to industrial equipment across the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This isn’t flatland trucking—Mora County’s 7,000+ foot elevations, steep grades, and sudden weather changes create perfect conditions for catastrophic accidents.

We know these roads. We understand that a brake failure on the descent toward the Mora River valley isn’t just “bad luck”—it’s often the result of negligent maintenance, exhausted drivers pushing through hours-of-service violations, or trucking companies cutting corners on safety to meet delivery deadlines. When you hire Attorney911, you’re getting a team that includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for trucking insurers before joining our firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims—and now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.

Federal Regulations That Protect Mora County Drivers

Every 18-wheeler operating in Mora County must comply with strict Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations. These federal laws exist specifically to prevent the kinds of accidents we see too often on New Mexico’s mountain highways.

Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395)

Federal law limits commercial drivers to 11 hours of driving time after 10 consecutive hours off duty. They cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty, and they must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving.

In Mora County, these violations are particularly dangerous. A driver pushing through fatigue on the long stretch of I-25 between Las Vegas and Raton is a ticking time bomb. When drivers violate these regulations—and they often do—our attorneys use Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data to prove they were too tired to safely navigate mountain curves.

Vehicle Maintenance Requirements (49 CFR Parts 393 & 396)

Federal law requires trucking companies to systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all commercial vehicles. Drivers must conduct pre-trip inspections covering brakes, tires, steering mechanisms, and lighting. Annual inspections are mandatory under 49 CFR § 396.17.

This matters in Mora County because mountain driving destroys brake systems. The steep grades on I-25 near Exit 419 and the passes around Mora require constant braking, generating heat that leads to brake fade and failure. If a trucking company deferred maintenance to save money, or if a driver skipped their pre-trip inspection before hauling heavy loads down mountain grades, they’ve violated federal law—and they’re liable for the damage they cause.

Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR Part 391)

Trucking companies must verify that drivers are qualified to operate commercial vehicles in challenging terrain. This includes proper CDL credentials, medical certifications, and training specific to mountain driving.

Mora County’s high altitude and steep grades require specialized skills. A driver accustomed to flatland driving may be dangerously unqualified for mountain routes. When trucking companies put unqualified drivers behind the wheel on Mora County’s challenging highways, we hold them accountable through negligent hiring claims.

The 18-Wheeler Accident Types We Handle in Mora County

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake failures account for approximately 29% of large truck crashes nationwide, and the risk multiplies on Mora County’s mountain grades. When a 40-ton truck loses braking power descending toward the Mora Valley, the results are catastrophic.

We investigate maintenance records, brake adjustment logs, and post-trip inspection reports. Under 49 CFR § 393.40, all CMVs must have functioning service and parking brakes. When companies violate these standards to save on maintenance costs, we pursue punitive damages for their recklessness.

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknifes occur when the trailer swings perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic. On Mora County’s narrow mountain stretches of I-25, a jackknifed truck can force passenger vehicles off the road or into oncoming traffic.

These accidents typically result from improper braking on wet or icy roads, speeding on curves, or unbalanced cargo shifts. We analyze ECM data to prove exactly when and how the driver lost control.

Rollover Accidents

Mora County’s topography makes rollovers a constant threat. Tanker trucks carrying liquids face the additional danger of “slosh”—cargo shifting during turns, raising the center of gravity. When trucks take Mora County’s mountain curves too fast or encounter sudden crosswinds on exposed ridges, rollovers occur with devastating force.

These accidents often involve improper cargo securement violations under 49 CFR § 393.100. We subpoena loading manifests and securement documentation to prove negligence.

Underride Collisions

One of the deadliest accident types occurs when a smaller vehicle slides under the trailer of an 18-wheeler. Federal law requires rear impact guards under 49 CFR § 393.86, but many trucks operate with inadequate or damaged guards. Side underride guards are not federally mandated, making side impacts particularly deadly on Mora County’s two-lane highways.

Tire Blowouts

High altitude and temperature variations in Mora County create unique tire hazards. Underinflated tires overheat on long descents, leading to catastrophic blowouts. FMCSA requires minimum tread depths of 4/32″ on steer tires and 2/32″ on other positions under 49 CFR § 393.75. When trucking companies run worn tires to save money, they endanger everyone on the road.

All Parties Who May Be Liable For Your Mora County Accident

Unlike simple car accidents, 18-wheeler crashes involve multiple potentially liable parties. We investigate every angle to maximize your recovery.

The Truck Driver: Direct negligence including speeding for conditions, distracted driving, Hours of Service violations, or impairment.

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier): Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts. Additionally, we pursue direct negligence claims for negligent hiring (failing to verify mountain driving experience), negligent training, and negligent maintenance.

The Cargo Owner/Shipper: Companies loading agricultural products or equipment may be liable for overweight loads or improper securement that caused instability on Mora County’s mountain grades.

The Loading Company: Third-party loaders who failed to properly secure cargo under 49 CFR § 393.100-136.

Truck and Parts Manufacturers: Defective brake systems, tire blowouts from manufacturing defects, or inadequate stability control for mountain terrain.

Maintenance Companies: Third-party mechanics who performed negligent repairs or failed to identify critical safety issues before sending trucks onto dangerous mountain routes.

Freight Brokers: Companies who arranged transportation using carriers with poor safety records or inadequate insurance.

Truck Owner (if different from driver): In owner-operator arrangements, the owner may bear responsibility for equipment maintenance.

Government Entities: While rare, poor road design or inadequate signage on Mora County highways may create liability.

The Evidence We Preserve Within 48 Hours

In Mora County trucking accidents, evidence disappears fast. The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect their interests. You need someone doing the same for you.

We send spoliation letters immediately—within 24 hours of being retained—to demand preservation of:

• ECM/Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, throttle position, and fault codes. This data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days.
• ELD Records: Proves Hours of Service violations showing the driver was fatigued while traversing dangerous mountain terrain.
• Driver Qualification File: Employment application, background checks, medical certifications, and training records.
• Maintenance Records: Proof of deferred brake repairs or skipped inspections.
• Cargo Documentation: Bills of lading showing weight and securement methods.
• Dispatch Communications: Evidence of pressure to violate safety regulations to meet delivery deadlines.

As our client Chad Harris said, “You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” We treat your case with the urgency it deserves because we know what’s at stake.

Catastrophic Injuries Require Maximum Compensation

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents in Mora County—steep grades, high speeds, and mountainous terrain—create catastrophic injuries requiring lifelong care.

Traumatic Brain Injuries: Ranging from concussions to severe TBI requiring 24/7 care. We’ve recovered $1.5 million to $9.8 million for TBI victims.

Spinal Cord Injuries: Paraplegia and quadriplegia from crushing forces or ejection from vehicles. Lifetime care costs exceed $3.5 million. Our firm has secured $4.7 million to $25.8 million for spinal injury cases.

Amputations: Crushing injuries often require surgical amputation. We obtained $3.8 million for a client who suffered a partial leg amputation following a vehicle accident and subsequent medical complications.

Wrongful Death: When trucking negligence takes a loved one in Mora County, we pursue full compensation including lost future income, loss of consortium, and punitive damages when companies acted recklessly. Our wrongful death recoveries range from $1.9 million to $9.5 million.

Under New Mexico law, you have three years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, waiting is dangerous. The sooner we intervene, the more evidence we preserve, and the stronger your case becomes.

Insurance Coverage in Mora County Trucking Cases

Federal law requires commercial carriers to carry minimum liability insurance far exceeding typical auto policies:

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

Mora County’s position along major freight corridors means we regularly see trucks carrying hazardous materials through the I-25 corridor. When these trucks crash, the insurance coverage is substantial—but accessing it requires attorneys who understand trucking law.

New Mexico’s Pure Comparative Fault Rule: Unlike some states that bar recovery if you’re partially at fault, New Mexico allows you to recover damages even if you were up to 99% at fault (though your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault). Don’t assume you don’t have a case—call us for a free evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions: Mora County 18-Wheeler Accidents

What should I do immediately after a truck accident on I-25 in Mora County?

Call 911 immediately. Request medical attention even if injuries seem minor—adrenaline masks pain. Photograph everything: vehicle damage, the truck’s DOT number, road conditions, and any skid marks. Get the driver’s CDL information and the trucking company’s insurance details. Then call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 before speaking with any insurance adjusters.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit in New Mexico?

Three years from the accident date for personal injury claims. However, critical evidence like black box data may be overwritten in 30 days. Contact us immediately to preserve your rights.

Who pays for my medical bills while my case is pending?

We can help arrange medical treatment under a Letter of Protection, meaning doctors provide care now and are paid from your settlement later. You focus on healing; we handle the legal fight.

What if the truck driver was alone at fault?

We’ll still investigate the trucking company. Under 49 CFR Part 391, carriers must verify driver qualifications. If they hired an unqualified driver or failed to train them for mountain driving, the company is directly liable for negligent hiring.

Can I still recover if I was partially at fault?

Yes. New Mexico follows “pure comparative fault.” You can recover damages even if you were 50% or 75% at fault, though your award is reduced by your percentage of responsibility.

What if the trucking company is from out of state?

We handle interstate trucking cases regularly. Ralph Manginello is admitted to federal court, allowing us to pursue cases against out-of-state carriers under federal jurisdiction.

Will my case settle or go to trial?

Most cases settle, 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 those firms. We’ve taken on Fortune 500 companies and won.

Why Mora County Families Choose Attorney911

25+ Years of Experience: Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s admitted to federal court and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against the largest corporations in the world, including BP in the Texas City Refinery explosion litigation.

Insider Insurance Knowledge: Our associate attorney Lupe Peña used to work for insurance companies. He knows their tactics—their lowball offers, their delay strategies, their attempts to blame victims. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

Multi-Million Dollar Results: We’ve recovered over $50 million for our clients, including $5 million for a traumatic brain injury, $3.8 million for an amputation case, and $2.5 million in a truck crash settlement.

4.9-Star Rating: With over 251 Google reviews, clients consistently mention our family treatment. As Glenda Walker told us, “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”

Hablamos Español: Lupe Peña provides fluent Spanish representation for Mora County’s Hispanic community. No interpreters needed—just direct communication with your attorney.

Three Offices, Serving Mora County: While our main office is in Houston, with additional locations in Austin and Beaumont, we handle cases throughout New Mexico. We travel to meet clients and have the resources to take on major trucking companies wherever they operate.

Call Now Before Evidence Disappears

The trucking company that hit you has already called their lawyers. Their insurance adjuster is already looking for ways to minimize your claim. Black box data is being overwritten. Maintenance records are being “reorganized.” Witnesses’ memories are fading.

You need someone fighting for you right now.

At Attorney911, we work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win. We advance all investigation costs. The consultation is free, and we’re available 24/7.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) right now.

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Don’t let the trucking company win. Your family deserves justice. Your future deserves protection. We’ve spent 25 years making trucking companies pay for the devastation they cause on highways like I-25 through Mora County. Let us fight for you.

Attorney911: When trucking companies strike, we strike back.