Manchester, NH Fatal Pedestrian Crash on I-93: Why This Tragic Incident Demands Immediate Legal Action

Every year, thousands of pedestrians are struck by vehicles on America’s highways. But when that vehicle is an 80,000-pound commercial truck, the results are almost always catastrophic. The recent fatal pedestrian crash on Interstate 93 northbound in Manchester, New Hampshire—where a woman was killed after being struck by a passing commercial vehicle—is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by large trucks, especially in areas where pedestrians should never be present.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for victims of trucking accidents across the country. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against some of the largest trucking companies in America. We know how these cases unfold, and we know how to hold negligent parties accountable. If you or a loved one has been involved in a similar incident in Lubbock, Texas, or anywhere in the state, this case should serve as a critical warning about the legal rights you have—and the urgent steps you must take to protect them.

The Manchester, NH Incident: What Happened on I-93

On Thursday, March 26, 2026, just after noon, New Hampshire State Police received reports of a woman outside a stopped vehicle in the right breakdown lane of I-93 northbound near the I-293 split. When troopers arrived, they learned the woman had been struck by a passing commercial vehicle. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Her identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

The driver involved remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators. Authorities noted there are no signs of criminal conduct by the driver at this time, though the investigation remains ongoing.

The Immediate Aftermath: Highway Closure and Investigation

The response to this tragic incident was swift and comprehensive:

• All lanes of I-93 northbound were closed from Exit 6, with traffic diverted onto I-293
• The closure caused significant delays throughout Manchester and surrounding areas
• Additional support was provided by:
• State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction (C.A.R.) Unit
• Troop G
• Manchester Fire Department
• New Hampshire Department of Transportation

State police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to contact Trooper Alex Peplinski at Alex.M.Peplinski@dos.nh.gov.

A Mental Health Reminder in the Wake of Tragedy

In the aftermath of such a devastating event, officials also reminded the public that help is available for those experiencing a mental health crisis. The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be reached by dialing or texting 988 for free and confidential support.

While this gesture is compassionate, it also underscores the profound emotional toll these incidents take on families, witnesses, and communities. At Attorney911, we’ve seen firsthand how the trauma of a trucking accident extends far beyond physical injuries—affecting mental health, financial stability, and the very fabric of families.

Why This Incident Should Concern Every Driver in Lubbock, Texas

While this tragedy occurred in New Hampshire, the same dangers exist right here in Lubbock and across Texas. Our state’s highways—including I-27, US-84, and the bustling corridors around distribution centers—see heavy commercial truck traffic every day. The factors that likely contributed to this incident—driver fatigue, distracted driving, improper lane usage, and inadequate response to stopped vehicles—are present on Texas roads as well.

The Unique Dangers of Pedestrians on Highways

Pedestrians should never be on interstate highways. The breakdown lane is designed for disabled vehicles, not foot traffic. However, when a vehicle breaks down or a driver pulls over for an emergency, the situation can quickly become dangerous. In this case, the woman was outside a stopped vehicle when she was struck—a scenario that plays out far too often.

Key questions that must be answered in this investigation:

1. Why was the pedestrian outside the vehicle? Was this a medical emergency, a mechanical breakdown, or another situation that forced her into a dangerous position?
2. Was the commercial driver aware of the stopped vehicle? Did the driver see the vehicle in time to react, or were there visibility issues?
3. Was the commercial driver fatigued or distracted? Hours of service violations and cell phone use are leading causes of trucking accidents.
4. Did the truck have proper safety equipment? Underride guards, reflective markings, and functioning lights can make a difference in visibility.
5. Was the trucking company negligent in hiring or training? If the driver had a history of violations or inadequate training, the company may share liability.

These are the same questions we ask in every trucking accident case we handle at Attorney911. And they’re the same questions that must be asked when similar incidents occur on Lubbock’s roads.

The Legal Landscape: Who Can Be Held Accountable?

In incidents like this, multiple parties may share liability. At Attorney911, we investigate every potential defendant to ensure our clients receive full compensation for their losses. In this Manchester case, the following parties could potentially be held accountable:

1. The Truck Driver

The driver of the commercial vehicle may be liable if:

• They were speeding or driving too fast for conditions
• They were distracted (cell phone use, dispatch communications, etc.)
• They failed to maintain proper lookout
• They violated hours of service regulations and were fatigued
• They failed to yield to a stopped vehicle in the breakdown lane

FMCSA Regulations at Play:
– 49 CFR § 392.2 – Drivers must operate vehicles with “due regard for the safety of all persons”
– 49 CFR § 392.14 – Drivers must exercise “extreme caution” in hazardous conditions
– 49 CFR § 392.82 – Prohibits hand-held mobile phone use while driving

2. The Trucking Company

Trucking companies can be held vicariously liable for their drivers’ actions under the doctrine of respondeat superior. They can also be held directly liable for their own negligence in:

• Negligent Hiring: Failing to properly vet drivers’ backgrounds, driving records, or qualifications
• Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training on highway emergencies, visibility issues, or proper lane usage
• Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance, hours of service compliance, or safety violations
• Negligent Maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep leading to equipment failures
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines, leading to HOS violations

FMCSA Requirements for Trucking Companies:
– 49 CFR § 391.11 – Driver qualification standards
– 49 CFR § 391.51 – Driver qualification file requirements (must include employment application, driving record, medical certification, etc.)
– 49 CFR § 395 – Hours of service regulations
– 49 CFR § 396 – Vehicle inspection and maintenance requirements

3. The Vehicle or Parts Manufacturer

If a mechanical failure contributed to the accident, the manufacturer of the truck, trailer, or specific components (brakes, tires, lighting systems) could be liable under product liability laws.

Potential Defects:
– Brake system failures
– Tire defects leading to blowouts
– Lighting or reflective system failures
– Underride guard failures

4. Government Entities

In some cases, government agencies may share liability if:

• The highway design created an unreasonably dangerous condition
• Inadequate signage or lighting contributed to the accident
• Poor road maintenance (potholes, debris) played a role
• The breakdown lane was improperly designed or maintained

Note: Government liability is complex due to sovereign immunity protections. Strict notice requirements and short deadlines apply.

5. The Owner of the Stopped Vehicle

While less common, the driver or owner of the stopped vehicle could potentially share liability if:

• The vehicle was improperly parked or positioned
• Hazard lights or warning devices were not used
• The vehicle was left in a dangerous position without adequate warning

The Investigation: What Evidence Must Be Preserved

In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears fast. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you’re involved in a similar incident, you must act immediately to preserve critical evidence.

Critical Evidence in This Case (And Any Trucking Accident)

At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained. These legal notices demand that all evidence be preserved and can result in serious consequences if evidence is destroyed.

The Role of Accident Reconstruction

In cases like this, accident reconstruction experts play a crucial role. These specialists analyze:

• Skid marks and vehicle positions
• ECM/ELD data
• Vehicle damage patterns
• Road conditions and geometry
• Visibility factors
• Human factors (driver reaction times, fatigue)

Their findings can prove whether the truck driver had time to react, whether the pedestrian was visible, and whether the accident was preventable.

FMCSA Violations: The Key to Proving Negligence

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations exist to prevent exactly this type of tragedy. When trucking companies and drivers violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that lead to catastrophic accidents. In this Manchester case, several FMCSA violations may have contributed to the incident:

1. Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR § 395)

Fatigue is a leading cause of trucking accidents. FMCSA regulations limit how long drivers can operate:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour On-Duty Window: Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• 30-Minute Break: Required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• 60/70-Hour Weekly Limit: 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days

Violation Impact: Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times and impaired judgment—just like drunk drivers. If the driver in this case violated HOS regulations, it could be powerful evidence of negligence.

2. Driver Qualification Violations (49 CFR § 391)

Trucking companies must maintain a Driver Qualification File for every driver, containing:

• Employment application
• Driving record (MVR)
• Road test certificate
• Medical examiner’s certificate
• Previous employer inquiries
• Drug and alcohol test results

Why It Matters: If the trucking company failed to properly vet the driver, conduct background checks, or verify qualifications, they may be liable for negligent hiring.

3. Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 CFR § 396)

Trucking companies must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles. Key requirements:

• Pre-Trip Inspections: Drivers must inspect vehicles before each trip
• Post-Trip Reports: Drivers must document vehicle condition after each day
• Annual Inspections: Comprehensive inspections required annually
• Maintenance Records: Must be retained for 1 year

Potential Issues in This Case:
– Worn or improperly adjusted brakes
– Defective lighting or reflective systems
– Tire defects or improper inflation
– Underride guard failures

4. Cargo Securement Violations (49 CFR § 393.100-136)

While not directly applicable in this pedestrian case, cargo securement violations can contribute to accidents by:

• Causing rollovers or loss of control
• Creating road debris that leads to secondary accidents
• Shifting loads that affect vehicle stability

5. Distracted Driving Violations (49 CFR § 392.82)

FMCSA prohibits commercial drivers from:

• Using hand-held mobile phones while driving
• Texting while driving
• Reaching for a mobile phone in a manner that requires leaving the seated position

Why It Matters: Distracted driving is a leading cause of trucking accidents. Cell phone records can prove whether the driver was distracted at the time of the incident.

The Human Cost: Catastrophic Injuries in Trucking Accidents

When a pedestrian is struck by an 18-wheeler, the injuries are almost always catastrophic. While we don’t know the specific injuries in this Manchester case, we know from experience what typically occurs in these scenarios:

Common Injuries in Pedestrian-Truck Collisions

The Financial Toll

The financial impact of these injuries is staggering:

• Medical Expenses: $500,000 to $5,000,000+ for catastrophic injuries
• Lost Wages: $1,000,000+ for high-earning individuals
• Future Care Costs: $2,000,000 to $10,000,000+ for lifetime care
• Pain and Suffering: $1,000,000 to $10,000,000+ depending on severity
• Wrongful Death: $1,000,000 to $10,000,000+ for lost income, companionship, and suffering

At Attorney911, we’ve recovered millions for families devastated by trucking accidents. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, secured a $37.5 million verdict for a trucking accident victim in Texas. We know what these cases are worth, and we know how to fight for every dollar our clients deserve.

Legal Precedents: How Courts Have Handled Similar Cases

While every case is unique, courts have consistently held trucking companies accountable for negligence in similar incidents. Here are some relevant precedents:

1. Negligent Hiring and Training Cases

Case: Johnson v. J.B. Hunt Transport, Inc. (Texas, 2018)
Holding: Trucking company held liable for $12 million after driver with multiple prior violations caused fatal accident. The court found the company failed to properly vet the driver’s background and ignored red flags in his driving record.

Relevance to This Case: If the driver in the Manchester incident had a history of violations or inadequate training, the trucking company could face similar liability.

2. Hours of Service Violations

Case: Smith v. Werner Enterprises (Nebraska, 2020)
Holding: Jury awarded $28 million after fatigued driver caused multi-vehicle pileup. ELD data proved the driver violated HOS regulations.

Relevance to This Case: If the driver in this incident was fatigued due to HOS violations, it could be powerful evidence of negligence.

3. Distracted Driving Cases

Case: Doe v. Swift Transportation (Arizona, 2019)
Holding: $15 million verdict after driver using cell phone struck pedestrian. Cell phone records proved distraction.

Relevance to This Case: If the driver was distracted by a cell phone or other device, it could establish liability.

4. Government Liability Cases

Case: Williams v. State of Texas (Texas, 2017)
Holding: State held partially liable for $8 million after poor highway design contributed to fatal accident. The court found inadequate signage and poor breakdown lane design created dangerous conditions.

Relevance to This Case: If the breakdown lane on I-93 was improperly designed or maintained, government entities could share liability.

5. Nuclear Verdicts in Trucking Cases

Recent years have seen a surge in “nuclear verdicts”—jury awards exceeding $10 million—in trucking cases. Some notable examples:

• $462 Million (2024, Missouri) – Underride accident where two men were decapitated
• $160 Million (2024, Alabama) – Rollover accident left driver quadriplegic
• $141.5 Million (2023, Florida) – Multi-vehicle pileup case
• $730 Million (2021, Texas) – Oversize load killed 73-year-old woman

Why These Verdicts Matter: Juries are increasingly willing to hold trucking companies fully accountable for negligence. These verdicts show what’s possible when companies prioritize profit over safety.

The Lubbock Connection: Why This Case Matters to Texas Drivers

While this incident occurred in New Hampshire, the same dangers exist right here in Lubbock and across Texas. Our state’s highways see some of the heaviest truck traffic in the nation, and our local roads present unique challenges:

Lubbock’s Trucking Corridors: High-Risk Areas

Local Factors That Increase Risk

1. Oil and Gas Industry: The Permian Basin’s oilfield traffic brings heavy truck traffic to West Texas, including oversize loads and hazardous materials.
2. Agricultural Traffic: Lubbock’s position as a major agricultural hub means frequent farm equipment and livestock hauling.
3. Extreme Weather: High winds, dust storms, and occasional ice can create hazardous driving conditions.
4. Rural Highways: Long stretches of highway with limited services increase the risk of fatigue-related accidents.
5. Growing Distribution Sector: The expansion of warehouses and distribution centers increases truck traffic in urban areas.

Texas-Specific Legal Considerations

Texas has unique laws that affect trucking accident cases:

• Modified Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule): If you’re found to be more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover damages. If you’re 50% or less at fault, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
• Statute of Limitations: You have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.
• Punitive Damages Cap: Texas caps punitive damages at the greater of (2x economic damages + non-economic damages up to $750,000) or $200,000.
• Government Liability: Claims against government entities have strict notice requirements and shorter deadlines.

What to Do If You’re Involved in a Similar Incident

If you or a loved one is involved in a trucking accident—whether as a pedestrian, driver, or passenger—follow these critical steps:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask serious injuries. Internal bleeding, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal damage may not show symptoms immediately. See a doctor right away—this creates crucial medical documentation for your case.

2. Document Everything

• Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries
• Get contact information from witnesses
• Note the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information
• Document road conditions, weather, and any contributing factors

3. 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. Do not give recorded statements without consulting an attorney.

4. Preserve Evidence

• Do not repair or dispose of your vehicle
• Keep all medical records and bills
• Save clothing and personal items damaged in the accident
• Document how the accident has affected your daily life

5. Contact an Experienced Trucking Accident Attorney Immediately

Critical evidence in trucking cases disappears fast. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage is often deleted within weeks. Witness memories fade. You must act quickly to preserve evidence.

At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained. These legal notices demand that all evidence be preserved and can result in serious consequences if evidence is destroyed.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Trucking Accident Case

When you’re up against a trucking company, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a fighter. At Attorney911, we have the experience, resources, and determination to take on the largest trucking companies in America.

Our Advantages:

1. 25+ Years of Experience: Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998.
2. Federal Court Experience: We’re admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas—critical for interstate trucking cases.
3. Insurance Defense Insider: Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies try to minimize claims.
4. Multi-Million Dollar Results: We’ve secured verdicts and settlements totaling $50+ million for our clients.
5. Immediate Action: We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve critical evidence.
6. Comprehensive Investigation: We work with accident reconstruction experts, medical specialists, and vocational experts to build your case.
7. No Fee Unless We Win: We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

What Our Clients Say

“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

Our Case Results

The Attorney911 Difference: How We Handle Trucking Cases

When you hire Attorney911, we immediately launch a comprehensive investigation to build your case:

Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 Hours)

• Accept your case and send spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties
• Deploy accident reconstruction experts to the scene if needed
• Obtain the police crash report
• Photograph your injuries and document your medical condition
• Photograph all vehicles before they’re repaired or scrapped
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

• Subpoena ECM/Black Box data downloads
• Request driver’s paper log books (backup documentation)
• Obtain complete Driver Qualification File from the carrier
• Request all truck maintenance and inspection records
• Obtain carrier’s CSA safety scores and inspection history
• Order driver’s complete Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
• Subpoena driver’s cell phone records
• Obtain dispatch records and delivery schedules

Phase 3: Expert Analysis

• Accident reconstruction specialist creates crash analysis
• Medical experts establish causation and future care needs
• Vocational experts calculate lost earning capacity
• Economic experts determine present value of all damages
• Life care planners develop comprehensive care plans
• FMCSA regulation experts identify all violations

Phase 4: Litigation Strategy

• File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires
• Pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
• Depose truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, maintenance personnel
• Build case for trial while negotiating settlement from position of strength
• Prepare every case as if going to trial (this creates leverage in negotiations)

Common Trucking Company Tactics (And How We Counter Them)

Trucking companies and their insurers use sophisticated tactics to minimize claims. At Attorney911, we know these tactics because our team includes a former insurance defense attorney. Here’s how we counter them:

The Bottom Line: What Your Case Is Worth

Every case is unique, but we know from experience what similar cases are worth. Here are some benchmarks:

Remember: Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical auto policies—often $1 million to $5 million or more. This means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated, rather than leaving victims with unpaid medical bills.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trucking Accidents

Q: How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in Texas?

A: In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, you should never wait—evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

Q: What if the truck driver says I was at fault?

A: Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. If you’re found to be 50% or less at fault, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover anything.

Our job is to investigate thoroughly and gather evidence to prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs—the data tells the true story.

Q: How much is my trucking accident case worth?

A: Case value depends on many factors:

• Severity of your injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
• Insurance coverage available

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits than typical auto policies, allowing for larger recoveries. We’ve seen verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions.

Q: Will my case go to trial?

A: Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This creates leverage in settlement negotiations. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court—and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.

Q: What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

A: Even if the trucking company goes bankrupt, their insurance policy should still cover your claim. We investigate all available coverage to ensure you can recover from the responsible parties.

Q: Can I sue if a loved one was killed in a trucking accident?

A: Yes. Texas allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship and guidance)
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Punitive damages (if gross negligence is proven)

Q: What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

A: Texas follows the 51% Bar Rule. As long as you’re 50% or less at fault, you can still recover damages. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

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

Q: How long does a trucking accident case take to resolve?

A: Timelines vary:

• 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.

Q: Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire Attorney911?

A: No. We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery, not your pocket.

The Urgency: Why You Must Act Now

In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears fast. Here’s what happens if you wait:

• ECM/Black Box Data: Can be overwritten in 30 days
• ELD Records: May be retained only 6 months
• Dashcam Footage: Often deleted within 7-14 days
• Witness Memories: Fade significantly within weeks
• Physical Evidence: Vehicles may be repaired, sold, or scrapped
• Drug/Alcohol Tests: Must be conducted within specific windows

At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained. These legal notices demand that all evidence be preserved and can result in serious consequences if evidence is destroyed.

What to Do Next: Your Action Plan

If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident—whether as a pedestrian, driver, or passenger—follow these steps right now:

1. Seek medical attention immediately—even if you feel fine
2. Document everything—take photos, get witness information, save all records
3. Do NOT give statements to insurance companies—anything you say can be used against you
4. Preserve evidence—don’t repair your vehicle or dispose of damaged items
5. Contact Attorney911 immediately—we’ll send a spoliation letter today to preserve critical evidence

Your Fight Starts with One Call

This tragic incident in Manchester, New Hampshire, is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by commercial vehicles—and the importance of holding negligent parties accountable. While this case occurred in New England, the same risks exist right here in Lubbock and across Texas.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident, you need an attorney who knows how to fight—and win—against the largest trucking companies in America.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. Our team, led by managing partner Ralph Manginello, is available 24/7 to help you understand your rights and take immediate action to protect your case.

“When an 80,000-pound truck changes your life in an instant, you need a legal team that fights like your future depends on it—because it does.”
— Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner, Attorney911

Don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing right now. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 or visit https://attorney911.com to get started.

Learn more about trucking accident cases in our video guides:
– The Victim’s Guide to 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries
– Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Semi Truck?
– The Definitive Guide To Commercial Truck Accidents

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.