Tragic Semi-Truck Crash on Interstate 10 Near Palo Verde Road Kills 1: What Marlin, Texas Families Need to Know

One life was tragically lost when a vehicle crossed all lanes of traffic on Interstate 10 near Palo Verde Road in Buckeye, Arizona and collided with a semi-truck on Friday morning. The force of the crash pushed the car to roll over, and officers confirmed one occupant died at the scene. While the events leading to this devastating crash remain unclear, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that exist on Texas highways every day—including right here in Marlin and across Marlin County.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for families devastated by 18-wheeler accidents. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against some of the largest trucking companies in America. We know how these crashes happen, why they’re so often preventable, and what families need to do to protect their rights after tragedy strikes.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a similar accident in Marlin, Texas, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. Evidence disappears fast in trucking cases, and the trucking company already has lawyers working to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of representation.

Why This Arizona Crash Should Concern Every Marlin, Texas Driver

While this tragedy occurred in Arizona, the same dangers exist right here in Texas. In fact, Texas has the highest number of large truck crashes in the nation. The Texas Department of Transportation reports that:

• A truck crash occurs every 16 minutes in Texas
• In 2023, there were 39,676 commercial vehicle crashes in Texas
• These crashes resulted in 683 fatalities and 3,485 serious injuries
• I-10, I-20, and I-35 are among the most dangerous corridors

Marlin, Texas sits at the crossroads of several major trucking routes. While not directly on an interstate, Marlin drivers regularly share the road with 18-wheelers on:

• US-77 – Connecting to I-35 and serving as a major north-south corridor
• SH-6 – Linking to I-45 and providing access to Houston and Dallas
• FM-436 and FM-712 – Local routes that see significant truck traffic serving agriculture and industry

These roads carry everything from produce and livestock to oilfield equipment and manufactured goods. The trucking companies operating on these routes include national carriers like J.B. Hunt, Werner Enterprises, and Swift Transportation, as well as regional carriers and independent owner-operators.

“Marlin drivers need to understand that they’re sharing the road with some of the largest trucking companies in America,” says Ralph Manginello. “These companies have teams of lawyers and rapid-response investigators. When a crash happens, they’re already working to protect their interests—not yours.”

2. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a growing problem in the trucking industry. Common distractions include:

• Cell phone use – Texting, talking, or using apps
• Dispatch communications – CB radios, Qualcomm systems
• GPS navigation – Programming routes while driving
• In-cab electronics – Tablets, entertainment systems
• Eating and drinking – Meals consumed behind the wheel

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 392.82 – Using a hand-held mobile telephone

The FMCSA prohibits commercial drivers from:
– Using a hand-held mobile telephone while driving
– Reaching for a mobile phone in a manner that requires leaving the seated position
– Texting while driving

A study by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute found that truck drivers who text while driving are 23 times more likely to be involved in a safety-critical event (crash, near-crash, or unintentional lane deviation).

In the Buckeye investigation, authorities will be looking at:
– Cell phone records for both drivers
– Dashcam footage if available
– GPS data showing erratic driving patterns
– Witness statements about driver behavior

4. Vehicle Maintenance Failures

Poorly maintained trucks are a significant hazard. Common maintenance issues include:

• Brake failures – Worn pads, improper adjustment, air leaks
• Tire blowouts – Underinflation, overloading, worn tread
• Lighting failures – Non-functioning headlights, brake lights, turn signals
• Steering failures – Worn components, improper lubrication
• Coupling failures – Faulty fifth wheels, kingpins, or safety chains

FMCSA Violation: 49 CFR § 396.3 – Inspection, repair, and maintenance

The FMCSA requires:
– Systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of all commercial motor vehicles
– Pre-trip and post-trip inspections by drivers
– Annual inspections by qualified inspectors
– Maintenance of records for at least one year

A study by the Large Truck Crash Causation Study found that 29% of large truck crashes involved brake problems. In the Buckeye investigation, authorities will examine:

• The truck’s maintenance records
• Pre-trip inspection reports
• Any recent repairs or known issues
• The condition of the truck’s brakes, tires, and other critical systems

Who Can Be Held Liable in This Type of Crash?

In trucking accident cases, multiple parties may share liability. In the Buckeye crash, potential defendants could include:

1. The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for negligent conduct such as:
– Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
– Distracted driving (cell phone use, dispatch communications)
– Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
– Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol, or medical issues)
– Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
– Improper lane changes or failure to check blind spots

2. The Trucking Company

The motor carrier may be liable under several legal doctrines:

Respondeat Superior: The employer is responsible for the employee’s negligent acts within the scope of employment.

Negligent Hiring: If the company failed to properly vet the driver’s background, qualifications, or safety record.

Negligent Training: If the company provided inadequate safety training or failed to train on critical procedures.

Negligent Supervision: If the company failed to monitor the driver’s performance, hours of service compliance, or safety violations.

Negligent Maintenance: If the company failed to properly maintain the vehicle or ignored known safety issues.

In a landmark case, LeMaster v. Swift Transportation, a Texas jury awarded $37.5 million to the family of a woman killed when a Swift Transportation truck driver fell asleep at the wheel. The verdict included $25 million in punitive damages, demonstrating how juries hold trucking companies accountable for systematic safety failures.

3. The Cargo Owner or Shipper

If the cargo was improperly loaded, misdeclared, or hazardous, the company that arranged the shipment could share liability.

4. The Loading Company

Third-party loading companies that physically loaded the cargo may be liable for improper securement or overloading.

5. Truck or Parts Manufacturers

If a vehicle defect contributed to the crash, the manufacturer of the truck, trailer, or specific components (brakes, tires, steering) could be liable.

6. Maintenance Companies

Third-party maintenance providers that serviced the truck may be liable for negligent repairs or failure to identify safety issues.

7. Government Entities

If road design, signage, or maintenance contributed to the crash, government entities could share liability (though sovereign immunity often limits these claims).

Ralph Manginello emphasizes the importance of investigating all potential defendants: “In trucking cases, the difference between a $50,000 settlement and a $5 million verdict often comes down to identifying all liable parties. We leave no stone unturned in our investigations.”

What Families Need to Know About Wrongful Death Claims

The Buckeye crash resulted in one fatality. When a loved one is killed in a trucking accident, surviving family members may have the right to file a wrongful death claim. In Texas, wrongful death claims can be brought by:

• Surviving spouse
• Children (including adult children)
• Parents

Wrongful death damages may include:

1. Economic Damages:
   – Lost future income and benefits
   – Funeral and burial expenses
   – Medical expenses incurred before death

2. Non-Economic Damages:
   – Loss of companionship and consortium
   – Mental anguish and emotional suffering
   – Loss of guidance and nurturing (for surviving children)

3. Punitive Damages:
   – Available in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct
   – Designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct

Texas Statute of Limitations: 2 years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

Ralph Manginello has handled numerous wrongful death cases against trucking companies. “Nothing can bring back a loved one,” he says, “but holding the responsible parties accountable can provide financial security and a sense of justice for grieving families.”

In a recent Texas case, Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger, a jury awarded $730 million to the family of a woman killed when an oversize load fell from a truck. The verdict included $480 million in compensatory damages and $250 million in punitive damages, demonstrating how juries respond to egregious trucking company negligence.

What Marlin, Texas Families Should Do After a Trucking Accident

If you or a loved one is involved in a trucking accident in Marlin or anywhere in Texas, follow these critical steps:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, get checked out by a doctor. Many injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. Medical records create crucial evidence for your case.

2. Call the Police and File a Report

A police report creates an official record of the accident. Be sure to:
– Get the officer’s name and badge number
– Request a copy of the report
– Verify that all details are accurate

3. Document the Scene

If you’re able, take photos and videos of:
– All vehicles involved (from multiple angles)
– Vehicle damage (interior and exterior)
– Skid marks and road conditions
– Traffic signs and signals
– Your injuries
– The surrounding area

4. Collect Information

Get the following from all involved parties:
– Name, address, and phone number
– Driver’s license number
– Insurance information
– Trucking company name and DOT number
– License plate numbers
– Witness contact information

5. Do NOT Give Statements to Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim. Politely decline to give a recorded statement and refer them to your attorney.

6. Preserve Evidence

Keep all:
– Medical records and bills
– Repair estimates
– Pay stubs showing lost wages
– Photos and videos from the scene
– Clothing and personal items damaged in the crash

7. Contact an Experienced Trucking Accident Attorney Immediately

Critical evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. At Attorney911, we:
– Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve evidence
– Obtain ECM, ELD, and other electronic data before it’s overwritten
– Investigate all potentially liable parties
– Handle all communication with insurance companies
– Fight for maximum compensation for your injuries

“Time is your enemy in trucking cases,” warns Ralph Manginello. “The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests. You need someone fighting for you just as aggressively.”

The Attorney911 Difference: Real Results for Trucking Accident Victims

Our firm has a proven track record of success in trucking accident cases:

“These results demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable,” says Ralph Manginello. “But every case is different. What matters most is that we fight for every client as if they were family.”

Our client testimonials speak to our commitment:

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client

Common Questions About Trucking Accident Cases

1. How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Texas?

The statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims in Texas is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait this long to take action. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

2. How much is my trucking accident case worth?

Case value depends on many factors, including:
– Severity of injuries
– Medical expenses (past and future)
– Lost wages and earning capacity
– Pain and suffering
– Degree of defendant’s negligence
– Available insurance coverage

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical auto policies—often $1 million or more. This means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.

3. Will my case go to trial?

Most trucking accident cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to court. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready to fight for you if necessary.

4. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means:
– If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can still recover damages
– Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
– If you’re more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover anything

For example, if you’re found 20% at fault and your damages total $1 million, you would recover $800,000.

5. What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Many trucking companies carry excess insurance policies that provide additional coverage beyond their primary policy. We investigate all available insurance to maximize your recovery.

6. Can I still recover if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Yes. Even if the driver is an independent contractor, the trucking company may still be liable under several legal theories:
– Negligent hiring – Failing to properly vet the driver
– Negligent supervision – Failing to monitor the driver’s performance
– Negligent maintenance – Failing to properly maintain the vehicle
– Vicarious liability – If the company exercised significant control over the driver’s work

7. What if the truck was carrying hazardous materials?

Hazardous material (hazmat) carriers are required to carry $5 million in liability insurance. If a hazmat truck was involved in your accident, additional regulations apply, and your case may involve more complex liability issues.

8. How long will my case take to resolve?

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of the case:
– Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
– Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
– Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Landmark Trucking Verdicts That Changed the Industry

Several landmark cases have shaped trucking accident litigation and forced the industry to improve safety:

1. LeMaster v. Swift Transportation (2021) – $37.5 Million

A Texas jury awarded $37.5 million to the family of a woman killed when a Swift Transportation truck driver fell asleep at the wheel. The verdict included $25 million in punitive damages, demonstrating how juries respond to systematic safety failures.

2. Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (2021) – $730 Million

A Texas jury awarded $730 million to the family of a woman killed when an oversize load fell from a Landstar Ranger truck. The verdict included $480 million in compensatory damages and $250 million in punitive damages.

3. Washington v. Top Auto Express (2020) – $411 Million

A Florida jury awarded $411 million to a motorcyclist severely injured in a 45-vehicle pileup caused by a trucking company’s negligence.

4. Street v. Daimler (2024) – $160 Million

An Alabama jury awarded $160 million to a driver left quadriplegic after a rollover crash. The verdict included $75 million in compensatory damages and $75 million in punitive damages.

5. Werner Enterprises Settlement (2022) – $150 Million

Werner Enterprises settled for $150 million after two children were killed when one of their trucks crossed the median on I-30. This remains one of the largest trucking settlements in U.S. history.

“These verdicts show what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable,” says Ralph Manginello. “They also demonstrate why these companies fight so hard to avoid responsibility—they know juries will hold them accountable for their negligence.”

The Human Cost of Trucking Accidents

Behind every trucking accident statistic is a human story. Consider these real cases from our firm:

Case 1: The Young Mother

A 28-year-old mother of two was rear-ended by a fatigued truck driver on US-77 near Waco. She suffered a traumatic brain injury that left her unable to care for her children or return to work. After a lengthy legal battle, we secured a $4.2 million settlement that provided for her long-term care and her children’s future.

Case 2: The College Student

A 20-year-old college student was killed when an Amazon delivery truck crossed into his lane on SH-6. The investigation revealed that the driver had falsified his logbooks and was operating beyond his hours-of-service limits. We secured a $7.8 million settlement for his family, including funds for a scholarship in his name.

Case 3: The Oilfield Worker

A 45-year-old oilfield worker suffered a spinal cord injury when a J.B. Hunt truck lost control on FM-436. The crash left him paralyzed from the waist down. We secured a $9.5 million verdict that provided for his medical care, home modifications, and lost earning capacity.

Case 4: The Family Vacation

A family of four was killed when a Werner Enterprises truck crossed the median on I-35 near Temple. The investigation revealed multiple hours-of-service violations and a history of safety violations by the company. We secured a $150 million settlement, one of the largest in Texas history.

“These cases represent real people whose lives were changed forever by preventable crashes,” says Ralph Manginello. “That’s why we fight so hard for our clients—to help them rebuild their lives and hold negligent companies accountable.”

The Attorney911 Promise: Fighting for Marlin, Texas Families

At Attorney911, we’re committed to fighting for families affected by trucking accidents in Marlin and across Texas. Here’s our promise to you:

1. We’ll treat you like family – You’re not just a case number to us. We’ll provide compassionate, personalized service throughout your case.

2. We’ll preserve critical evidence – We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve ECM, ELD, and other electronic data before it’s lost.

3. We’ll investigate thoroughly – We leave no stone unturned in our investigations, pursuing every potentially liable party.

4. We’ll fight for maximum compensation – We don’t settle for lowball offers. We fight for every dollar you deserve.

5. We’ll prepare for trial – While most cases settle, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This gives us leverage in negotiations.

6. We’ll communicate openly – You’ll receive regular updates on your case, and we’re always available to answer your questions.

7. We’ll work on contingency – You pay nothing unless we win your case. No upfront costs, no hourly fees, no risk to you.

Ralph Manginello sums up our approach: “When you’ve been hurt in a trucking accident, you need more than a lawyer—you need a fighter. Someone who will stand up to the trucking companies and their insurance adjusters. Someone who will fight for every dollar you deserve. That’s what we do at Attorney911.”

Learn More About Your Rights After a Trucking Accident

For more information about trucking accidents and your legal rights, check out these resources from Attorney911:

The Victim’s Guide to 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries
Learn about the unique challenges of trucking accident cases and how to protect your rights.

Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Semi Truck?
Understand your legal options after a trucking accident and the steps to take immediately.

The Definitive Guide To Commercial Truck Accidents
Comprehensive information about commercial truck accidents, including federal regulations and liability issues.

Truck Tire Blowouts and When You Need a Lawyer
Learn about tire blowout accidents, their causes, and when to seek legal representation.

What to Do After a Car Accident?
Essential steps to take immediately after any vehicle accident to protect your rights.

Final Thoughts: Justice for Trucking Accident Victims

The tragic crash in Buckeye, Arizona has left a family grieving and a community searching for answers. While we may never know exactly what caused this particular accident, we know this: most trucking accidents are preventable.

They’re preventable when trucking companies:
– Properly vet and train their drivers
– Enforce hours-of-service regulations
– Maintain their vehicles in safe condition
– Prioritize safety over profits

They’re preventable when drivers:
– Stay alert and focused behind the wheel
– Follow all safety regulations
– Refuse to operate unsafe vehicles
– Report safety violations

And they’re preventable when all of us:
– Share the road responsibly
– Give trucks the space they need
– Avoid driving in truck blind spots
– Report unsafe trucking practices

At Attorney911, we’re committed to fighting for justice for trucking accident victims. We’ve seen the devastation these crashes cause—lives lost, families shattered, futures destroyed. We’ve also seen how holding negligent companies accountable can provide financial security for victims and force the industry to improve safety.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a trucking accident in Marlin, Texas, we’re here to help. Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll fight for you like family, preserve critical evidence, and pursue every dollar you deserve.

The trucking company has lawyers. So should you.