Three Injured in Waco 18-Wheeler Crash on U.S. 77: What Texas Families Need to Know
Every year, thousands of Texans are injured in collisions with commercial trucks. But when an 18-wheeler veers into oncoming traffic and causes a head-on crash, the consequences can be catastrophic. That’s exactly what happened on February 22, 2026, when a Ford F-350 traveling southbound on U.S. 77 near County Road 430 experienced a tire issue, crossed into the northbound lane, and collided head-on with a Chevrolet Silverado.
Three people were injured and transported to local hospitals. While the investigation is ongoing, this incident raises critical questions about truck safety, tire maintenance, and the legal rights of accident victims in Texas.
At Attorney911, we’ve handled hundreds of trucking accident cases across Texas. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience fighting for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down:
- What we know about this specific Waco crash
- The most common causes of tire-related truck accidents
- How FMCSA regulations apply to this case
- Who may be liable for the victims’ injuries
- What evidence needs to be preserved immediately
- How Texas families can protect their rights after a trucking accident
If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial vehicle accident anywhere in Texas, call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies try to minimize claims—and we know how to fight back.
Tire Failures: A Leading Cause of Trucking Accidents
Tire blowouts and failures are among the most common—and most preventable—causes of 18-wheeler accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), tire-related issues contribute to thousands of truck crashes every year, resulting in hundreds of fatalities.
Why Are Tire Blowouts So Dangerous?
Commercial trucks like the Ford F-350 involved in this crash have multiple tires—each of which can fail. When a tire blows out:
- The driver may lose control of the vehicle
- The truck can swerve into other lanes, as happened in this Waco crash
- Debris from the tire can strike other vehicles
- The truck may roll over or jackknife, especially if it’s a rear tire
In this case, the Ford F-350 crossed into oncoming traffic after experiencing a tire issue. This suggests the driver may have lost steering control or been unable to correct the vehicle’s path after the failure.
Common Causes of Tire Failures in Commercial Trucks
Tire blowouts don’t happen by accident. They’re almost always the result of negligence—either by the driver, the trucking company, or the tire manufacturer. Here are the most common causes:
1. Underinflation
- Tires that are not properly inflated generate excessive heat, leading to blowouts
- Underinflation is the #1 cause of tire failure in commercial trucks
- FMCSA regulations require drivers to check tire pressure before every trip (49 CFR § 396.13)
2. Overloading
- Trucks carrying more weight than their tires can handle are at high risk for blowouts
- Overloaded tires overheat and fail under stress
- The Ford F-350 in this crash is a heavy-duty pickup, often used for commercial purposes—meaning it may have been carrying equipment, tools, or materials that exceeded its tire capacity
3. Worn or Aging Tires
- Tires have a limited lifespan, even if they have tread remaining
- Rubber degrades over time, becoming brittle and prone to failure
- FMCSA requires minimum tread depth (4/32” on steer tires, 2/32” on others) (49 CFR § 393.75)
- Many trucking companies delay tire replacement to save money
4. Manufacturing Defects
- Defective tires can fail without warning, even when properly maintained
- Common defects include separation of tread from the tire body, weak sidewalls, and improper bonding
- If the tire in this Waco crash had a manufacturing defect, the tire manufacturer could be liable
5. Road Debris and Hazards
- Nails, glass, metal, and other debris can puncture tires
- Potholes and rough road surfaces can damage tires over time
- While road debris isn’t always preventable, proper tire maintenance can reduce the risk of failure
6. Improper Tire Matching
- Dual tires (two tires side-by-side) must be matched in size, type, and wear
- Mismatched tires can cause uneven wear and stress, leading to blowouts
7. Failure to Inspect
- Drivers are required to inspect tires before every trip (49 CFR § 396.13)
- Trucking companies must maintain records of inspections and repairs
- If the Ford F-350 had a known tire issue that wasn’t addressed, both the driver and the company could be liable
Who Is Liable for the Waco Truck Crash?
In trucking accident cases, multiple parties can be held liable. Unlike car accidents, where usually only one driver is at fault, commercial vehicle crashes often involve a web of responsibility. In this Waco crash, the following parties could be liable:
1. The Driver of the Ford F-350
The driver may be personally liable if they were negligent in operating the vehicle. Potential issues include:
- Failure to inspect the tires before the trip (49 CFR § 396.13)
- Driving with a known tire defect
- Improperly securing cargo that may have affected vehicle stability
- Speeding or reckless driving that contributed to the crash
- Fatigue or impairment that slowed reaction time
Evidence We Would Pursue:
– Driver’s qualification file (if commercial)
– Driving record and history of violations
– Cell phone records to check for distraction
– Drug and alcohol test results
– ELD data (if applicable) to check for HOS violations
– Witness statements about the driver’s behavior before the crash
3. The Tire Manufacturer
If the tire failure was caused by a manufacturing defect, the tire manufacturer could be liable under product liability law. Common defects include:
- Tread separation (layers of the tire peel apart)
- Weak sidewalls that fail under stress
- Improper bonding of tire components
- Design flaws that make the tire prone to failure
Evidence We Would Pursue:
– The failed tire for expert analysis
– Recall notices for the tire model
– Similar complaints from other users (NHTSA database)
– Manufacturing and quality control records
5. The Maintenance Company
If a third-party maintenance company serviced the Ford F-350, they could be liable if:
- They failed to identify the tire issue during an inspection
- They used substandard or wrong parts in repairs
- They returned the vehicle to service with known defects
Evidence We Would Pursue:
– Maintenance work orders
– Mechanic qualifications and training
– Parts used in repairs
– Inspection reports and recommendations
Critical Evidence That Must Be Preserved Immediately
In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears fast. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of a crash. If you or a loved one was injured in this Waco crash—or any trucking accident—time is critical.
Here’s what needs to be preserved immediately:
1. Electronic Data
| Evidence Type | What It Shows | Preservation Window |
|---|---|---|
| ECM/Black Box Data | Speed, braking, throttle position, fault codes | 30 days (can be overwritten) |
| ELD Data | Hours of service, driving time, GPS location | 6 months (FMCSA requirement) |
| GPS/Telematics Data | Real-time location, speed, route | Varies by carrier |
| Cell Phone Records | Distraction (texts, calls, apps) | Requires subpoena |
| Dashcam Footage | Video of the crash and driver behavior | 7-14 days (often overwritten) |
Why This Matters:
ECM and ELD data can prove speeding, fatigue, or mechanical issues. Dashcam footage can show what the driver was doing before the crash. This evidence can disappear in days—we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve it.
2. Physical Evidence
| Evidence Type | What It Shows | Preservation Window |
|---|---|---|
| The Truck and Trailer | Damage patterns, mechanical condition | Days to weeks (may be repaired or scrapped) |
| Failed Tire | Defects, wear patterns, manufacturing issues | Days (often discarded) |
| Cargo and Securement Devices | Overloading, improper securement | Days (may be removed) |
| Skid Marks and Debris | Speed, braking, point of impact | Days (weather, traffic) |
Why This Matters:
The failed tire in this Waco crash could prove a manufacturing defect or poor maintenance. The truck’s damage can show how the crash happened. This evidence must be preserved before it’s lost forever.
3. Driver and Company Records
| Evidence Type | What It Shows | Preservation Window |
|---|---|---|
| Driver Qualification File | Hiring negligence, training gaps | 3 years (FMCSA requirement) |
| Maintenance Records | Deferred repairs, known defects | 1 year (FMCSA requirement) |
| Inspection Reports | Pre-existing violations | 1 year (FMCSA requirement) |
| Dispatch Records | Schedule pressure, HOS violations | 6 months (FMCSA requirement) |
| Drug and Alcohol Tests | Impairment at time of crash | 1-5 years (FMCSA requirement) |
Why This Matters:
These records can prove negligent hiring, training, or maintenance. Trucking companies often destroy or “lose” records after a crash—we subpoena them immediately to prevent this.
4. Witness Statements
| Evidence Type | What It Shows | Preservation Window |
|---|---|---|
| Eyewitness Accounts | What happened before and during the crash | Weeks (memories fade) |
| First Responder Reports | Initial observations, road conditions | Months (reports may be archived) |
| 911 Call Recordings | Driver statements, crash details | Months (may be deleted) |
Why This Matters:
Witnesses can corroborate your version of events. Their memories fade quickly—we interview them as soon as possible.
Why This Waco Crash Is a Warning for All Texas Drivers
While this crash occurred in Waco, the same dangers exist on Texas highways every day. Consider these facts:
- Texas has the highest number of trucking accidents in the U.S.—over 35,000 crashes involving large trucks in 2023 alone
- I-35, I-10, and I-45 are among the most dangerous trucking corridors in the country
- Tire blowouts are a leading cause of trucking accidents in Texas, especially in hot weather (which causes underinflation and blowouts)
- Many Texas trucking companies cut corners on maintenance, training, and safety to save money
How Texas Drivers Can Protect Themselves
-
Give Trucks Plenty of Space
– Trucks need more room to stop—never cut in front of them
– Stay out of blind spots (No-Zones)—if you can’t see the driver’s mirrors, they can’t see you -
Be Extra Cautious Around Trucks with Tire Issues
– If you see a truck with a wobbling trailer, shredded tire, or visible damage, slow down and give it space
– Never drive alongside a truck—if a tire blows, debris can strike your vehicle -
Avoid Distractions
– Trucks can’t stop quickly—always be prepared for sudden stops
– Put your phone away—distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents -
Report Unsafe Trucks
– If you see a truck with visible tire issues, unsecured cargo, or other safety violations, report it to the Texas Department of Public Safety or FMCSA -
Know What to Do If You’re in a Crash
– Call 911 and report the accident
– Seek medical attention immediately
– Document everything—photos, witness info, police reports
– Call an attorney before speaking to any insurance company
What Compensation Are the Waco Victims Entitled To?
If you or a loved one was injured in this Waco crash, you may be entitled to compensation for:
1. Economic Damages (Calculable Losses)
| Damage Type | What It Covers |
|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | Hospital bills, surgery, rehabilitation, future medical care |
| Lost Wages | Income lost due to time off work |
| Lost Earning Capacity | Reduction in future earning ability due to injuries |
| Property Damage | Repair or replacement of your vehicle |
| Out-of-Pocket Expenses | Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications |
2. Non-Economic Damages (Quality of Life)
| Damage Type | What It Covers |
|---|---|
| Pain and Suffering | Physical pain from injuries |
| Mental Anguish | Psychological trauma, anxiety, depression |
| Loss of Enjoyment | Inability to participate in activities you love |
| Disfigurement | Scarring, visible injuries |
| Loss of Consortium | Impact on marriage and family relationships |
| Physical Impairment | Reduced physical capabilities |
3. Punitive Damages (Punishment for Gross Negligence)
Punitive damages may be available if the trucking company or driver acted with:
– Gross negligence (reckless disregard for safety)
– Willful misconduct (intentional violations)
– Fraud (falsifying logs, destroying evidence)
Texas caps punitive damages at the greater of:
– $200,000, or
– Two times economic damages plus non-economic damages (up to $750,000)
However, no cap applies if the defendant acted with malice or intentional harm.
What to Expect When You Call Attorney911
When you call us at 1-888-ATTY-911, here’s what happens:
-
Free Consultation
– We’ll review your case at no cost
– We’ll explain your legal rights and options
– We’ll answer all your questions -
Immediate Evidence Preservation
– We’ll send spoliation letters to preserve critical evidence
– We’ll subpoena records before they’re destroyed
– We’ll hire experts to investigate the crash -
Medical Care Coordination
– We’ll help you get the treatment you need
– We’ll work with doctors who understand trucking injuries
– We’ll ensure your medical records document your injuries properly -
Aggressive Negotiation
– We’ll demand fair compensation from the insurance company
– We’ll reject lowball offers and fight for what you deserve
– We’ll prepare for trial if necessary -
Maximum Recovery
– We’ll pursue every liable party to maximize your compensation
– We’ll fight for every dollar you’re entitled to
– We’ll handle all the legal work so you can focus on recovery
Final Thoughts: Justice for the Waco Victims
The Waco crash on U.S. 77 is a tragic reminder of how quickly lives can change when negligence meets the road. While the investigation is ongoing, one thing is clear: someone failed.
Whether it was:
– A trucking company that cut corners on maintenance
– A driver who didn’t inspect their tires
– A tire manufacturer that sold a defective product
– A cargo owner that overloaded the vehicle
The victims deserve answers. They deserve justice. They deserve compensation.
At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years holding negligent trucking companies accountable. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and a track record of multi-million dollar verdicts. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows every trick the trucking companies use—and how to counter them.
If you or a loved one was injured in this Waco crash—or any trucking accident—you don’t have to fight alone. We’re here to help.
Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and fight for the justice you deserve.
📞 24/7 Emergency Legal Help
Toll-Free: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct Houston: (713) 528-9070
Email: ralph@atty911.com
Website: https://attorney911.com
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💡 Why Choose Attorney911?
✅ 25+ years of experience fighting for trucking accident victims
✅ Former insurance defense attorney on staff—we know their tactics
✅ Multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for Texas families
✅ Federal court admission—we can handle complex cases
✅ Offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont—we’re never far from you
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Don’t let the trucking company win. Fight back with Attorney911.
Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. The sooner you call, the stronger your case will be.