Austin Truck Accidents: What You Need to Know After a Crash on I-35 or Mopac

You were driving home from work on I-35, or picking up your kids from school near Mopac, or heading to a Longhorns game downtown. The road was familiar—you’ve driven it a thousand times. Then, in an instant, everything changed.

An 18-wheeler crossed into your lane. A tanker truck overturned in front of you. A delivery van from Amazon or FedEx ran a red light. The crash wasn’t just an accident. It was a collision with an 80,000-pound machine operating under federal rules most drivers never think about—until it’s too late.

Now, you’re facing medical bills you didn’t plan for. Your car is totaled. Your loved one is in the hospital at Dell Seton Medical Center, or worse. The trucking company’s insurance adjuster called within hours, offering a quick settlement—one that won’t come close to covering what you’ve lost.

We know how this works. We’ve handled hundreds of commercial vehicle cases in Travis County and across Central Texas. We know the corridors where these crashes happen most often: I-35 between Round Rock and Buda, Mopac’s elevated sections near the Domain, the SH-130 toll road where speed and fatigue collide, and the urban delivery routes through Mueller and South Congress where Amazon vans and UPS trucks make sudden stops in residential neighborhoods.

We also know the clock is already running. Texas law gives you two years from the date of the crash to file a claim—but the evidence you need to prove what happened disappears much faster. The truck’s black box data, the driver’s electronic logs, the dashcam footage—all of it can be erased or overwritten if you don’t act quickly.

Here’s what you need to know in the first 48 hours, and in the months ahead, to protect your family’s future.

The Reality of a Truck Crash in Austin

Austin’s roads aren’t just busy—they’re freight corridors. I-35 is one of the most heavily traveled trucking routes in the country, carrying everything from cross-border shipments from Laredo to Tesla components from the Gigafactory. Mopac and SH-45 are packed with last-mile delivery vehicles serving Amazon’s fulfillment centers in Pflugerville and Manor. Even residential streets in Mueller and Mueller aren’t immune: delivery vans, construction trucks, and service vehicles share the road with families walking to the park.

When a crash happens, it’s not just a fender-bender. It’s a high-impact collision with a vehicle that’s required by federal law to follow strict safety rules—and when those rules are broken, the consequences are devastating.

What We See Most Often in Austin Truck Crashes

1. Fatigue and Hours-of-Service Violations
   Federal regulations limit commercial drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, with a 14-hour on-duty window and a 60-hour/7-day or 70-hour/8-day cap. But in Austin, where drivers are under pressure to meet tight delivery windows or get back to the Permian Basin for another load, these rules are frequently ignored.

   We’ve seen drivers falsify logs, skip mandatory breaks, and push through exhaustion to meet deadlines. When fatigue leads to a crash, the trucking company’s own records—ELD data, dispatch logs, fuel receipts—often reveal the truth.

2. Distracted Driving
   Federal law prohibits commercial drivers from using handheld phones or texting while driving. But in Austin, where drivers are navigating unfamiliar routes or responding to last-minute dispatch changes, distraction is a constant risk.

   We’ve uncovered phone records showing drivers were on calls or texting at the time of the crash. Dashcam footage often reveals the moment of distraction—whether it’s a phone in hand, a GPS being adjusted, or a driver looking away from the road.

3. Improper Maintenance
   Trucks are required to undergo regular inspections, and drivers must perform pre-trip checks of brakes, tires, lights, and other critical systems. But in Austin, where trucks are on the road 24/7, maintenance is often deferred.

   We’ve seen cases where brake failures, tire blowouts, or faulty steering systems caused crashes—and where the trucking company’s own inspection records showed a pattern of neglect.

4. Unsecured Loads
   Cargo must be properly secured to prevent shifting or spilling. But in Austin, where trucks are hauling everything from construction materials to retail goods, unsecured loads are a common hazard.

   We’ve handled cases where steel beams, lumber, or even entire vehicles came loose on the road, causing catastrophic crashes. When this happens, the shipper, the loader, and the trucking company can all be held liable.

5. Aggressive Driving
   Speeding, tailgating, and unsafe lane changes are common on Austin’s congested roads. But for commercial drivers, these behaviors are especially dangerous—and often documented in the truck’s telematics data.

   We’ve used this data to prove that drivers were speeding, following too closely, or making reckless maneuvers in the moments before a crash.

The Legal Framework: What Texas Law Says About Truck Crashes

When a truck crash happens in Austin, the legal framework isn’t just about negligence—it’s about federal regulations, Texas statutes, and the specific duties that commercial carriers owe to the public. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR)

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets the rules that trucking companies and drivers must follow. These regulations cover everything from driver qualifications to vehicle maintenance to hours of service. When a carrier violates these rules, it can be held liable under a legal doctrine called negligence per se—meaning the violation itself is proof of negligence.

Key FMCSR violations we see in Austin cases:

• Hours-of-Service (HOS) Violations (49 C.F.R. Part 395): Drivers exceeding the 11-hour driving limit or falsifying logs.
• Driver Qualification Violations (49 C.F.R. Part 391): Companies hiring drivers with suspended licenses, prior DUIs, or falsified medical certifications.
• Vehicle Maintenance Violations (49 C.F.R. Part 396): Failure to inspect or repair brakes, tires, lights, or other critical systems.
• Cargo Securement Violations (49 C.F.R. Part 393): Improperly secured loads that shift or spill.
• Drug and Alcohol Testing Violations (49 C.F.R. Part 382): Drivers operating under the influence or companies failing to conduct required tests.

When we take a case, we subpoena the driver’s qualification file, the truck’s maintenance records, and the carrier’s safety history from the FMCSA’s Safety Measurement System (SMS). These records often reveal a pattern of violations that the company ignored.

2. Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code: Your Rights After a Crash

Texas law provides specific protections for victims of truck crashes. Here are the key statutes that apply to your case:

• Statute of Limitations (Section 16.003): You have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim. If you miss this deadline, you lose your right to compensation—no exceptions.
• Comparative Negligence (Chapter 33): Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can recover damages even if you were partly at fault—but only if your fault is 50% or less. If you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.
• Wrongful Death and Survival Actions (Chapter 71): If your loved one was killed in a truck crash, Texas law allows surviving family members to file a wrongful death claim (Section 71.004) and the estate to file a survival action (Section 71.021). These are separate claims with separate damages.
• Exemplary (Punitive) Damages (Chapter 41): If the trucking company’s conduct was grossly negligent—such as knowingly hiring an unsafe driver or falsifying records—you may be entitled to punitive damages in addition to compensatory damages. The cap on punitive damages in Texas is the greater of $200,000 or two times the amount of economic damages plus up to $750,000 in non-economic damages—but there is no cap if the conduct involved a felony, such as intoxication manslaughter.
• Stowers Doctrine: If the trucking company’s insurance carrier unreasonably refuses a settlement demand within policy limits, they can be held liable for the entire verdict, even if it exceeds the policy limits.

3. The Texas Tort Claims Act: When the Government Is at Fault

If the crash involved a government vehicle—such as a TxDOT truck, a Capital Metro bus, or an Austin Police Department vehicle—Texas law limits the government’s liability under the Texas Tort Claims Act (Chapter 101). Key rules:

• Notice Requirement (Section 101.101): You must provide written notice of your claim to the government entity within six months of the crash.
• Damages Caps (Section 101.023): For municipalities, the cap is $250,000 per person and $500,000 per occurrence. For state agencies, the caps are higher.

We’ve handled cases against government entities in Austin, including crashes involving Capital Metro buses and TxDOT maintenance vehicles. These cases require a different legal strategy—and a deep understanding of the notice and damages rules.

Who’s Really Responsible? The Defendants Beyond the Driver

When a truck crash happens, the driver is often just the first name on a long list of responsible parties. Here’s who else we investigate in Austin cases:

1. The Trucking Company

The company that employs the driver is often the deepest pocket. Under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for their employees’ negligence. But we don’t stop there. We also pursue claims for:

• Negligent Hiring: Did the company hire a driver with a history of DUIs, reckless driving, or prior crashes?
• Negligent Training: Did the company fail to properly train the driver on safety protocols, hours-of-service rules, or cargo securement?
• Negligent Supervision: Did the company ignore prior violations or pressure the driver to meet unrealistic deadlines?
• Negligent Retention: Did the company keep a driver on the road after multiple preventable crashes or violations?

We’ve seen cases where trucking companies hired drivers with suspended licenses, falsified medical certifications, or histories of drug and alcohol violations. When this happens, the company’s own records become the evidence we use to prove their negligence.

2. The Freight Broker

If the trucking company was hired through a broker (such as C.H. Robinson, Uber Freight, or Total Quality Logistics), the broker may also be liable for negligent selection. Under recent court rulings, brokers have a duty to vet the carriers they hire—and if they dispatch a load to a company with a poor safety record, they can be held responsible for the crash.

We’ve sued brokers in cases where they hired carriers with documented safety violations, including out-of-service orders from the FMCSA.

3. The Shipper

If the shipper directed the loading of the truck, set unrealistic delivery deadlines, or failed to properly secure the cargo, they can be held liable for the crash. We’ve seen cases where shippers overloaded trucks, improperly secured hazardous materials, or pressured drivers to meet impossible schedules—all of which contributed to the crash.

4. The Maintenance Provider

If the truck’s brakes, tires, or other critical systems failed, the company responsible for maintenance can be held liable. We’ve handled cases where maintenance providers falsified inspection records, failed to replace worn-out parts, or ignored safety recalls.

5. The Manufacturer

If a defective part—such as a faulty brake system, tire, or steering component—caused the crash, the manufacturer can be held liable under product liability laws. We’ve worked with engineers to prove that design defects, manufacturing defects, or failure-to-warn issues contributed to crashes.

6. The Government Entity

If the crash was caused by a dangerous road condition—such as a missing guardrail, poorly designed intersection, or inadequate signage—the government entity responsible for the road (such as TxDOT or the City of Austin) may be liable under the Texas Tort Claims Act.

We’ve handled cases where crashes were caused by:

• Missing or malfunctioning traffic signals
• Poorly maintained roads with potholes or debris
• Inadequate signage or lighting
• Dangerous intersection designs

What Your Case Is Worth: Damages in Texas Truck Crash Cases

Truck crashes often result in catastrophic injuries—traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, severe burns, and wrongful death. The damages in these cases can be significant, and they fall into several categories under Texas law:

1. Economic Damages

These are the tangible financial losses you’ve suffered:

• Past and Future Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, surgery costs, rehabilitation, physical therapy, medication, and any future medical care you’ll need.
• Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: The income you’ve lost due to your injuries, as well as the income you’ll lose in the future if you’re unable to work.
• Property Damage: The cost to repair or replace your vehicle and any other damaged property.

In Austin, where the cost of living is high and wages are competitive, these damages can add up quickly. We work with medical experts, vocational rehabilitation specialists, and economists to calculate the full extent of your losses.

2. Non-Economic Damages

These are the intangible losses that don’t have a dollar value but are just as real:

• Pain and Suffering: The physical pain and emotional distress you’ve endured due to your injuries.
• Mental Anguish: The psychological impact of the crash, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
• Physical Impairment: The loss of your ability to enjoy life’s activities, such as hobbies, sports, or spending time with family.
• Disfigurement: Scarring, burns, or other permanent physical changes.

In Texas, there’s no formula for calculating non-economic damages. Instead, juries consider factors such as the severity of your injuries, the impact on your daily life, and the long-term consequences.

3. Exemplary (Punitive) Damages

If the trucking company’s conduct was grossly negligent—such as knowingly hiring an unsafe driver, falsifying records, or ignoring safety violations—you may be entitled to punitive damages. These damages are meant to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct in the future.

Texas caps punitive damages at the greater of $200,000 or two times the amount of economic damages plus up to $750,000 in non-economic damages—but there is no cap if the conduct involved a felony, such as intoxication manslaughter.

4. Wrongful Death Damages

If your loved one was killed in a truck crash, Texas law allows surviving family members to recover damages for:

• Pecuniary Loss: The financial support the deceased would have provided.
• Loss of Companionship and Society: The emotional loss of the deceased’s love, guidance, and support.
• Mental Anguish: The emotional pain and suffering caused by the loss.
• Loss of Inheritance: The assets the deceased would have accumulated and left to their heirs.

The estate can also recover damages for the deceased’s pain and suffering before death, as well as funeral and burial expenses.

The Insurance Company’s Playbook—and How We Counter It

Insurance companies have a playbook for minimizing payouts in truck crash cases. Here’s what they’ll do—and how we counter it:

1. The Quick Lowball Offer

What they do: Within days of the crash, the adjuster will call with a quick settlement offer—one that’s far below what your case is worth. They’ll pressure you to accept it before you’ve had time to consult a lawyer or understand the full extent of your injuries.

How we counter it: We never advise clients to accept a settlement in the first 96 hours. We calculate the full value of your case—including future medical needs, lost wages, and pain and suffering—before responding to any offer.

2. The Recorded Statement Trap

What they do: The adjuster will ask for a “quick recorded statement” to “get your side of the story.” They’ll ask questions designed to make you minimize your injuries or admit fault.

How we counter it: We never let our clients give a recorded statement without us present. Anything you say can and will be used against you.

3. The Comparative Negligence Defense

What they do: They’ll argue that you were partly at fault—maybe you were speeding, didn’t signal, or weren’t wearing a seatbelt. Under Texas law, if you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.

How we counter it: We gather evidence to prove that the truck driver’s negligence was the primary cause of the crash. This includes witness statements, accident reconstruction reports, and data from the truck’s black box.

4. The Pre-Existing Condition Defense

What they do: They’ll argue that your injuries existed before the crash—maybe you had a bad back or a prior injury.

How we counter it: Under the eggshell skull doctrine, the defendant takes you as they find you. If the crash worsened a pre-existing condition, they’re liable for the aggravation.

5. The Delayed Treatment Defense

What they do: They’ll argue that if you didn’t see a doctor immediately, your injuries must not be serious.

How we counter it: Adrenaline masks pain. Traumatic brain injuries, whiplash, and other injuries can take days or weeks to surface. We work with medical experts to document the full extent of your injuries.

6. Spoliation (Evidence Destruction)

What they do: They won’t announce this—but they’ll “lose” or destroy evidence, such as ELD data, dashcam footage, or maintenance records.

How we counter it: We send spoliation letters within 24 hours of taking a case, putting the trucking company on notice that they must preserve all evidence. If they destroy it, we ask the court for an adverse inference instruction, which tells the jury they can assume the evidence would have been harmful to the company.

7. The IME Doctor

What they do: They’ll send you to an “independent medical examiner” (IME) who’s actually a doctor they hire to minimize your injuries.

How we counter it: Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, worked for years in insurance defense. He knows the IME doctors the companies use—and how to counter their reports with evidence from your treating physicians.

8. Surveillance

What they do: They’ll hire investigators to follow you and take photos or videos of you doing anything that looks “normal”—like carrying groceries or walking your dog.

How we counter it: As Lupe says, “Insurance companies take innocent activity out of context. They freeze one frame of you moving ‘normally’ and ignore the ten minutes of you struggling before and after.” We expose this tactic in court.

9. Delay Tactics

What they do: They’ll drag out the case, hoping you’ll run out of money or patience and accept a low settlement.

How we counter it: We file lawsuits early to force discovery. We set depositions. We make them carry the cost of delay.

What to Do in the First 48 Hours After a Truck Crash in Austin

The first 48 hours after a truck crash are critical. Evidence disappears quickly, and the trucking company’s lawyers are already working to protect their client. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Call 911 and Report the Crash

• Even if the crash seems minor, call 911. The police report will be a key piece of evidence.
• If you’re able, take photos and videos of the scene, the vehicles, and your injuries.

2. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

• Some injuries—like traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding—may not be immediately apparent.
• Go to the emergency room or see a doctor as soon as possible. Dell Seton Medical Center and St. David’s Medical Center are two of the top trauma centers in Central Texas.

3. Preserve Evidence

• Dashcam Footage: If you have a dashcam, save the footage immediately.
• Surveillance Video: Ask nearby businesses to preserve any surveillance footage of the crash.
• Witness Statements: Get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
• Truck’s Black Box Data: The truck’s electronic control module (ECM) records speed, braking, and other critical data. This data can be overwritten quickly, so we send a preservation letter to the trucking company within 24 hours.

4. Do NOT Give a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company

• The adjuster will call within hours, asking for a recorded statement. Do not give one without consulting a lawyer first.
• Anything you say can be used against you.

5. Call Attorney 911 at 1-888-ATTY-911

• We’ll send a preservation letter to the trucking company, demanding that they preserve all evidence.
• We’ll pull the driver’s Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP) record and the carrier’s Safety Measurement System (SMS) profile from the FMCSA.
• We’ll investigate the crash scene, interview witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts to determine what happened.

Why Choose Attorney 911 for Your Austin Truck Crash Case?

We’re not like other personal injury firms. Here’s what sets us apart:

1. We Know the Trucking Industry Inside and Out

• Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, has been representing truck crash victims since 1998. He’s admitted to federal court and has handled cases against some of the largest trucking companies in the country.
• Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, worked for years in insurance defense. He knows how insurance companies value claims—and how to counter their tactics.
• We’ve been involved in some of the most high-profile trucking cases in Texas, including the BP Texas City Refinery explosion litigation.

2. We Don’t Stop at the Driver—We Sue the Trucking Companies

Most personal injury firms only sue the driver. We go after the trucking companies, the brokers, the shippers, and anyone else who contributed to the crash.

We’ve sued:

• Amazon for crashes involving their Delivery Service Partner (DSP) contractors
• FedEx for crashes involving their independent contractors
• Walmart for crashes involving their private fleet
• Sysco for crashes involving their foodservice distribution network
• Halliburton and Schlumberger for crashes involving their oilfield service vehicles

3. We Have a Track Record of Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions of dollars for our clients, including:

• A $5+ million settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss when a log dropped on him at a logging company.
• A $3.8+ million settlement for a client whose leg was injured in a car accident, leading to a partial amputation due to staff infections.
• Millions of dollars for families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases.
• A $2+ million settlement for a client who injured his back while lifting cargo on a ship.

Every case is unique. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

4. We Speak Spanish and Understand Austin’s Diverse Community

Austin is a diverse city, and we’re proud to serve clients in both English and Spanish. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our staff includes bilingual team members who can assist you in your preferred language.

Para las familias hispanohablantes de Austin, sabemos que enfrentar el sistema legal después de un accidente catastrófico puede ser abrumador. Atendemos a las familias en español, desde la primera llamada hasta la última audiencia en el tribunal del condado.

5. We’re Available 24/7—Not Just During Business Hours

We know that truck crashes don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. That’s why we’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’ll speak to a real person—not an answering service.

Frequently Asked Questions About Austin Truck Crashes

1. How long do I have to file a claim after a truck crash in Austin?

Texas law gives you two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim. If you miss this deadline, you lose your right to compensation—no exceptions.

For government entities (such as TxDOT or Capital Metro), you must provide written notice of your claim within six months.

2. What if the truck driver was at fault but the trucking company is denying responsibility?

Trucking companies often try to avoid liability by claiming the driver was an independent contractor rather than an employee. But under federal law, if the company controls the driver’s schedule, routes, or working conditions, they can still be held liable.

We’ve successfully sued trucking companies for negligent hiring, training, supervision, and retention—even when the driver was technically an independent contractor.

3. Can I still recover damages if I was partly at fault for the crash?

Yes, but only if your fault is 50% or less. Under Texas’s modified comparative negligence rule, your damages are reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.

We work with accident reconstruction experts to prove that the truck driver’s negligence was the primary cause of the crash.

4. What if the trucking company’s insurance adjuster is pressuring me to settle quickly?

The first settlement offer is almost always a lowball offer designed to close the case before you know the full extent of your injuries. We never advise clients to accept a settlement in the first 96 hours.

We calculate the full value of your case—including future medical needs, lost wages, and pain and suffering—before responding to any offer.

5. How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer in Austin?

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we recover compensation for you. Our fee is 33.33% of the recovery if the case settles before trial and 40% if it goes to trial.

You may still be responsible for court costs and case expenses, but we’ll discuss this with you upfront.

6. What if the trucking company claims I’m exaggerating my injuries?

Insurance companies often hire independent medical examiners (IMEs) to minimize your injuries. But Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, worked in insurance defense for years. He knows the IME doctors the companies use—and how to counter their reports with evidence from your treating physicians.

We also work with medical experts to document the full extent of your injuries, including any long-term consequences.

7. Can I sue the trucking company if the driver was arrested for DUI?

Yes. If the driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the trucking company can be held liable for negligent hiring, training, or supervision. You may also be entitled to punitive damages if the company’s conduct was grossly negligent.

We’ve handled cases where trucking companies hired drivers with prior DUIs or failed to conduct required drug and alcohol tests.

8. What if the trucking company claims the crash was caused by a mechanical failure?

Trucking companies are required to inspect and maintain their vehicles under federal law. If a mechanical failure caused the crash, the company can be held liable for negligent maintenance.

We work with engineers and accident reconstruction experts to determine whether a mechanical failure contributed to the crash—and who’s responsible.

9. Can I sue the government if the crash was caused by a dangerous road condition?

Yes, but you must provide written notice of your claim within six months, and damages are capped under the Texas Tort Claims Act.

We’ve handled cases against TxDOT and the City of Austin for crashes caused by missing guardrails, poorly designed intersections, and inadequate signage.

10. What if the trucking company is based out of state?

It doesn’t matter where the trucking company is based. If the crash happened in Texas, we can sue them in Texas court.

We’ve handled cases against trucking companies from across the country, including some of the largest carriers in the industry.

Austin’s Most Dangerous Trucking Corridors—and How to Stay Safe

Austin’s roads are some of the busiest in Texas, and certain corridors see more truck crashes than others. Here are the most dangerous areas for truck crashes in Austin—and what you can do to stay safe:

1. I-35 Between Round Rock and Buda

• Why it’s dangerous: I-35 is one of the most heavily traveled trucking routes in the country, carrying everything from cross-border shipments to Tesla components. The stretch between Round Rock and Buda is particularly hazardous due to heavy congestion, frequent lane changes, and high speeds.
• Common crash types: Rear-end collisions, lane-change crashes, jackknifes.
• Safety tip: Maintain a safe following distance, avoid driving in a truck’s blind spots, and be extra cautious during rush hour.

2. Mopac Expressway (Loop 1)

• Why it’s dangerous: Mopac’s elevated sections and sharp curves make it a high-risk area for truck crashes, especially during wet weather. The stretch near the Domain is particularly congested, with delivery trucks and construction vehicles sharing the road with commuters.
• Common crash types: Rollovers, sideswipes, rear-end collisions.
• Safety tip: Slow down in wet weather, avoid sudden lane changes, and watch for trucks making wide turns.

3. SH-130 Toll Road

• Why it’s dangerous: SH-130 is designed for high-speed truck traffic, with a speed limit of 85 mph. But the combination of high speeds, fatigue, and sudden slowdowns makes it a hotspot for crashes.
• Common crash types: Rear-end collisions, rollovers, tire blowouts.
• Safety tip: Maintain a safe speed, avoid driving in a truck’s blind spots, and be prepared for sudden slowdowns.

4. I-10 Between Austin and San Antonio

• Why it’s dangerous: I-10 is a major freight corridor, carrying trucks from the Port of Houston to San Antonio and beyond. The stretch between Austin and San Antonio is particularly hazardous due to heavy truck traffic, fatigue, and aggressive driving.
• Common crash types: Rear-end collisions, lane-change crashes, jackknifes.
• Safety tip: Avoid driving in a truck’s blind spots, maintain a safe following distance, and be extra cautious at night.

5. Urban Delivery Routes (Mueller, South Congress, The Domain)

• Why it’s dangerous: Delivery vans from Amazon, FedEx, and UPS make frequent stops in residential neighborhoods, creating hazards for pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers.
• Common crash types: Pedestrian strikes, rear-end collisions, dooring cyclists.
• Safety tip: Be extra cautious in residential areas, watch for delivery trucks making sudden stops, and yield to pedestrians and cyclists.

What to Expect When You Call Attorney 911

When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, here’s what happens:

1. A Free Case Evaluation

• We’ll listen to your story and ask questions about the crash, your injuries, and the trucking company involved.
• We’ll give you an honest assessment of your case and explain your legal options.

2. Immediate Evidence Preservation

• We’ll send a preservation letter to the trucking company, demanding that they preserve all evidence, including:
  • The truck’s black box data (ECM)
  • The driver’s electronic logs (ELD)
  • Dashcam footage
  • Maintenance records
  • Driver qualification files
  • Dispatch records
• We’ll also pull the carrier’s Safety Measurement System (SMS) profile from the FMCSA to check for prior violations.

3. A Thorough Investigation

• We’ll visit the crash scene, interview witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts to determine what happened.
• We’ll obtain the police report, medical records, and any other evidence related to the crash.
• We’ll identify all potentially liable parties, including the trucking company, the broker, the shipper, and any maintenance providers.

4. Aggressive Negotiation or Litigation

• We’ll negotiate with the insurance company to get you the compensation you deserve.
• If they refuse to offer a fair settlement, we’ll file a lawsuit and take your case to trial.

5. Regular Updates and Support

• We’ll keep you updated on the progress of your case and answer any questions you have.
• We’ll handle all the paperwork, phone calls, and legal filings so you can focus on your recovery.

Don’t Wait—Call 1-888-ATTY-911 Today

The clock is already running. Texas law gives you two years from the date of the crash to file a claim—but the evidence you need to prove your case disappears much faster.

When you call Attorney 911, we’ll:

• Send a preservation letter to the trucking company within 24 hours.
• Pull the driver’s Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP) record and the carrier’s Safety Measurement System (SMS) profile from the FMCSA.
• Investigate the crash scene, interview witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts.
• Handle all negotiations with the insurance company so you don’t have to.

We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 or contact us online for a free case evaluation.

Client Testimonials: What Our Clients Say About Us

“Melanie was excellent. She kept me informed and when she said she would call me back, she did. I got to speak with Ralph Manginello once and knew quickly the way his Firm was ran.” — Brian Butchee

“When I felt I had no hope or direction, Leonor reached out to me…She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.” — Stephanie Hernandez

“Special thank you to my attorney, Mr. Pena, for your kindness and patience with my repeated questions.” — Chelsea Martinez

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer…Ralph reached out personally.” — Dame Haskett

“I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.” — Ambur Hamilton

“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.” — Chad Harris

“They went above and beyond! Special thank you to Ralph and Leanor.” — Diane Smith

“One of Houston’s Great Men Trae Tha Truth has recommended this law firm. So if he is vouching for them then I know they do good work.” — Jacqueline Johnson

“You know if TraeAbn tells you it’s the right way to go best attorney out here you can’t go wrong.” — Erica Perales

We Fight for Austin Families—Because We’re Part of This Community

We live in Austin. We drive these roads. We know the corridors where truck crashes happen most often, and we know the families who are affected by them.

When an unsafe truck threatens our community, it’s personal. We don’t just represent victims—we fight for them, because we know what’s at stake.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck crash in Austin, don’t wait. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today for a free case evaluation. We’re here to help.