18-Wheeler & Trucking Accident Attorneys in Bulloch County, Georgia

When 80,000 Pounds Changes Everything

The impact was catastrophic. One moment you’re driving through Bulloch County on your way to work, to pick up your kids, to live your life. The next, an 80,000-pound commercial truck has jackknifed across three lanes, or blown through a red light, or lost control on a curve. In an instant, everything changes.

Every 16 minutes, someone in America is injured in a commercial truck crash. But here in Bulloch County, Georgia, the risk runs even higher. Our position at the crossroads of major freight corridors means heavy truck traffic passes through our communities daily. When that traffic turns dangerous, you need an attorney who understands both the local roads and the federal regulations that govern the trucking industry.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for trucking accident victims. Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against the largest trucking companies in America. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance companies before joining our firm—now he uses that insider knowledge to fight against them. That’s your advantage.

Why Bulloch County Trucking Accidents Are Different

Bulloch County sits at a critical junction in Georgia’s freight network. Interstate 16 runs east-west through our county, connecting Savannah’s bustling port to Macon and beyond. This corridor carries massive volumes of commercial truck traffic—container haulers from the Port of Savannah, distribution freight heading to Atlanta, and long-haul traffic crossing Georgia.

The statistics tell a sobering story. Georgia ranks among the top states for trucking accidents, with thousands of crashes annually involving commercial vehicles. In Bulloch County specifically, our location on I-16 and proximity to major distribution centers creates elevated risk. Trucks traveling at highway speeds through our communities have limited time to react to changing conditions—and when they can’t stop in time, the results are catastrophic.

Weather compounds the danger. Georgia’s summer thunderstorms can reduce visibility and create slick road surfaces in minutes. Winter ice storms, though less frequent, can paralyze our roadways and create conditions where even experienced truck drivers lose control. The long, straight stretches of I-16 through Bulloch County can lull drivers into complacency—until an emergency requires reaction times that physics simply don’t allow.

The Physics of Catastrophe: Why Truck Accidents Cause Devastating Injuries

Understanding why 18-wheeler accidents cause such catastrophic injuries requires grasping the fundamental physics at play. A fully loaded commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—twenty times the weight of an average passenger vehicle. When these masses collide, the energy transfer follows Newton’s laws with devastating consequences.

The kinetic energy of a moving vehicle equals half its mass times velocity squared. An 80,000-pound truck traveling at 65 mph carries approximately 80 times the kinetic energy of a 4,000-pound car at the same speed. In a collision, this energy doesn’t simply disappear—it transfers to the smaller vehicle and its occupants.

Stopping distance illustrates the danger practically. A passenger car traveling 65 mph needs approximately 300 feet to stop under ideal conditions. An 18-wheeler at the same speed requires 525 feet—nearly two football fields. This 40% longer stopping distance means truck drivers cannot avoid obstacles as quickly, and their delayed reactions have catastrophic consequences.

The height differential creates additional hazards. A truck’s bumper strikes a car’s passenger compartment rather than its reinforced frame. In underride collisions, the car slides beneath the trailer, shearing off the roof and decapitating occupants. The truck’s mass simply overwhelms the car’s safety systems—airbags, crumple zones, and seatbelts designed for collisions with similar-sized vehicles.

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Bulloch County

Jackknife Accidents

A jackknife occurs when the trailer and cab skid in opposite directions, with the trailer folding at an angle similar to a pocket knife. The trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often sweeping across multiple lanes of traffic. These accidents account for approximately 10% of all trucking-related deaths and frequently result in multi-vehicle pileups.

In Bulloch County, jackknife accidents commonly occur on I-16 during sudden weather changes. Summer thunderstorms can create slick surfaces in minutes, and drivers who fail to adjust their speed for conditions find their trailers swinging out of control. The long, straight stretches of highway through our rural areas can lull drivers into complacency—until an emergency requires braking that physics doesn’t allow.

Common causes include sudden or improper braking on wet or icy roads, speeding particularly on curves, empty or lightly loaded trailers that are more prone to swing, improperly loaded or unbalanced cargo, brake system failures, and driver inexperience with emergency maneuvers. FMCSA regulations violated in these accidents include 49 CFR § 393.48 (brake system malfunction), 49 CFR § 393.100 (improper cargo securement), and 49 CFR § 392.6 (speeding for conditions).

Rollover Accidents

A rollover occurs when an 18-wheeler tips onto its side or roof. Due to the truck’s high center of gravity and massive weight, rollovers are among the most catastrophic trucking accidents. Approximately 50% of rollover crashes result from failure to adjust speed on curves, and they frequently lead to secondary crashes from debris and fuel spills.

Bulloch County’s location on I-16 means trucks frequently travel through our area at highway speeds. The interstate’s curves, particularly at interchanges and ramps, require drivers to reduce speed significantly. When they don’t, the physics of a top-heavy vehicle taking a curve too fast becomes unforgiving. The cargo shifts, the center of gravity moves, and the truck simply tips over.

Common causes include speeding on curves, ramps, or turns; taking turns too sharply at excessive speed; improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo; liquid cargo “slosh” shifting the center of gravity; overcorrection after tire blowout or lane departure; and driver fatigue causing delayed reaction. FMCSA violations include 49 CFR § 393.100-136 (cargo securement violations), 49 CFR § 392.6 (exceeding safe speed), and 49 CFR § 392.3 (operating while fatigued).

Underride Collisions

An underride collision occurs when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of an 18-wheeler and slides underneath the trailer. The trailer height often causes the smaller vehicle’s passenger compartment to be sheared off at windshield level. These are among the most fatal types of 18-wheeler accidents, with approximately 400-500 underride deaths occurring annually in the United States.

In Bulloch County, underride accidents frequently occur on I-16 during sudden traffic slowdowns. A truck driver who fails to notice stopped traffic ahead cannot stop in time, and the vehicle behind has nowhere to go but under the trailer. The rear impact guards that are supposed to prevent this are often inadequate or damaged, and the result is catastrophic.

Common causes include inadequate or missing underride guards, worn or damaged rear impact guards, truck sudden stops without adequate warning, low visibility conditions, truck lane changes into blind spots, wide right turns cutting off traffic, and inadequate rear lighting or reflectors. FMCSA/NHTSA requirements include 49 CFR § 393.86 (rear impact guards required on trailers manufactured after 1/26/1998), with guards required to prevent underride at 30 mph impact. Notably, there is NO federal requirement for side underride guards.

Rear-End Collisions

A rear-end collision occurs when an 18-wheeler strikes the back of another vehicle or when a vehicle strikes the back of a truck. Due to the truck’s massive weight and longer stopping distances, these accidents cause devastating injuries. 18-wheelers require 20-40% more stopping distance than passenger vehicles, and a fully loaded truck at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to stop.

On I-16 through Bulloch County, rear-end collisions frequently occur during traffic slowdowns at interchanges or during weather events. A truck driver following too closely, distracted by dispatch communications, or simply unable to stop in time creates a devastating impact. The vehicle in front is crushed, pushed into other vehicles, or forced off the road.

Common causes include following too closely (tailgating), driver distraction, driver fatigue and delayed reaction, excessive speed for traffic conditions, brake failures from poor maintenance, failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns, and impaired driving. FMCSA violations include 49 CFR § 392.11 (following too closely), 49 CFR § 392.3 (operating while fatigued), 49 CFR § 392.82 (mobile phone use), and 49 CFR § 393.48 (brake system deficiencies).

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Wide turn accidents occur when an 18-wheeler swings wide (often to the left) before making a right turn, creating a gap that other vehicles enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing or striking the vehicle that entered the gap. These accidents are particularly dangerous in urban and suburban areas where traffic density is higher.

In Bulloch County, wide turn accidents occur at intersections along US-301 and at the I-16 interchanges where trucks exit to access local businesses. The combination of highway-speed traffic and tight turning radii creates dangerous conditions. Drivers unfamiliar with the area may not anticipate how much space a truck needs, and truck drivers under pressure to make deliveries may not take adequate precautions.

Common causes include failure to properly signal turning intention, inadequate mirror checks before and during turn, improper turn technique, driver inexperience with trailer tracking, failure to yield right-of-way when completing turn, and poor intersection design forcing wide turns. FMCSA violations include 49 CFR § 392.11 (unsafe lane changes), 49 CFR § 392.2 (failure to obey traffic signals), and state traffic law violations for improper turns.

Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone”)

Blind spot accidents occur when an 18-wheeler changes lanes or maneuvers without seeing a vehicle in one of its four major blind spots (No-Zones). The four No-Zones are: the front No-Zone (20 feet directly in front where the driver cannot see low vehicles), the rear No-Zone (30 feet behind with no rear-view mirror visibility), the left side No-Zone (extending from cab door backward), and the right side No-Zone (much larger than left—MOST DANGEROUS).

On I-16 through Bulloch County, blind spot accidents frequently occur during lane changes in heavy traffic. The right-side blind spot is particularly dangerous because it’s larger and because drivers are more likely to be in it when trucks are entering or exiting the highway. A truck driver who fails to check mirrors, has improperly adjusted mirrors, or is distracted during a lane change creates a devastating sideswipe or crushing accident.

Common causes include failure to check mirrors before lane changes, improperly adjusted or damaged mirrors, inadequate mirror checking during sustained maneuvers, driver distraction during lane changes, driver fatigue affecting situational awareness, and failure to use turn signals allowing other drivers to anticipate. FMCSA requirements include 49 CFR § 393.80 (mirrors must provide clear view to rear on both sides), with proper mirror adjustment being part of driver pre-trip inspection.

Tire Blowout Accidents

Tire blowout accidents occur when one or more tires on an 18-wheeler suddenly fail, causing the driver to lose control. Debris from the blown tire can also strike other vehicles. With 18 tires on a typical 18-wheeler, each represents a potential failure point. Steer tire (front) blowouts are especially dangerous and can cause immediate loss of control. “Road gators” (tire debris) cause thousands of accidents annually.

In Bulloch County, tire blowouts frequently occur on I-16 during summer months when extreme heat builds pressure in underinflated tires. The long, straight stretches of highway encourage sustained high speeds that generate heat in tire casings. When a blowout occurs at 70 mph, the driver has fractions of a second to react—and an 80,000-pound vehicle with a blown steer tire is virtually uncontrollable.

Common causes include underinflated tires causing overheating, overloaded vehicles exceeding tire capacity, worn or aging tires not replaced, road debris punctures, manufacturing defects, improper tire matching on dual wheels, heat buildup on long hauls, and inadequate pre-trip tire inspections. FMCSA requirements include 49 CFR § 393.75 (tire requirements for tread depth and condition), 49 CFR § 396.13 (pre-trip inspection must include tire check), with minimum tread depth of 4/32″ on steer tires and 2/32″ on other positions.

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake failure accidents occur when an 18-wheeler’s braking system fails or underperforms, preventing the driver from stopping in time to avoid a collision. Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes, and brake system violations are among the most common FMCSA out-of-service violations. Complete brake failure is often the result of systematic maintenance neglect.

In Bulloch County, brake failure accidents frequently occur on the exit ramps and interchanges of I-16, where trucks must slow from highway speeds. The combination of sustained braking on long descents and the need for precise speed control at interchanges creates conditions where brake fade and failure become catastrophic. A truck that cannot stop at the end of an exit ramp careens into cross traffic with devastating force.

Common causes include worn brake pads or shoes not replaced, improper brake adjustment (too loose), air brake system leaks or failures, overheated brakes (brake fade) on long descents, contaminated brake fluid, defective brake components, failure to conduct pre-trip brake inspections, and deferred maintenance to save costs. FMCSA requirements include 49 CFR § 393.40-55 (brake system requirements), 49 CFR § 396.3 (systematic inspection and maintenance), 49 CFR § 396.11 (driver post-trip report of brake condition), with air brake pushrod travel limits specified.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Bulloch County Trucking Accident?

One of the most critical differences between car accidents and 18-wheeler accidents is the number of potentially liable parties. While a typical car crash might involve one or two drivers, trucking accidents often implicate a web of companies and individuals whose negligence contributed to the crash. At Attorney911, we investigate every possible defendant because more liable parties means more insurance coverage means higher compensation for you.

The Truck Driver

The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable for negligent conduct including speeding, distracted driving, fatigued driving beyond legal limits, impaired driving, failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections, and violation of traffic laws. We pursue the driver’s complete history including their driving record, ELD data showing hours of service, drug and alcohol test results, cell phone records, previous accident history, and training records.

The Trucking Company

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they carry the deepest insurance pockets. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are responsible for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for negligent hiring, negligent training, negligent supervision, negligent maintenance, and negligent scheduling that pressures drivers to violate hours of service regulations.

We subpoena the company’s Driver Qualification Files, hiring policies, training records, supervision practices, dispatch records showing schedule pressure, safety culture documentation, and CSA scores. Trucking companies carry between $750,000 and $5 million in insurance—far more than individual drivers—making them the primary recovery target.

Cargo Owner and Loading Company

The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable for providing improper loading instructions, failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo, requiring overweight loading, or pressuring carriers to expedite beyond safe limits. Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo may be liable for improper securement, unbalanced load distribution, exceeding vehicle weight ratings, or failure to use proper blocking, bracing, and tiedowns.

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

The companies that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for design defects, manufacturing defects, or failure to warn of known dangers. Parts manufacturers of brakes, tires, steering components, and other critical systems may be liable when their defective products cause accidents.

Maintenance Companies and Freight Brokers

Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets may be liable for negligent repairs, failure to identify critical safety issues, or returning vehicles to service with known defects. Freight brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records, failure to verify carrier insurance and authority, or selecting cheapest carriers despite safety concerns.

Government Entities

In limited circumstances, federal, state, or local government may be liable for dangerous road design, failure to maintain roads, inadequate signage for known hazards, or improper work zone setup. Special rules apply to government claims including shorter deadlines and notice requirements.

FMCSA Regulations That Protect Bulloch County Drivers

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates all commercial motor vehicles operating in interstate commerce. These regulations, codified in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR), Parts 300-399, establish minimum safety standards that trucking companies must follow. When they don’t, and someone gets hurt, those violations prove negligence.

Part 390: General Applicability

This part establishes who must comply with federal trucking regulations. It applies to all motor carriers operating commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce, all drivers of CMVs in interstate commerce, and all vehicles with GVWR over 10,001 pounds. The regulations define commercial motor vehicles, motor carriers, drivers, and interstate commerce—establishing the foundation for all other safety requirements.

Part 391: Driver Qualification Standards

This critical part establishes who is qualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle. Minimum qualifications include being at least 21 years old for interstate commerce, ability to read and speak English sufficiently, physical qualification under § 391.41, possession of a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), and completion of required entry-level driver training.

Motor carriers must maintain a Driver Qualification (DQ) File for every driver containing employment application, motor vehicle record from state licensing authority, road test certificate or equivalent, medical examiner’s certificate, annual driving record review, previous employer inquiries for 3-year driving history, and drug and alcohol test records. Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring—evidence we subpoena in every trucking case.

Part 392: Driving of Commercial Motor Vehicles

This part establishes rules for safe operation. Critical provisions include § 392.3 prohibiting operation while ability or alertness is impaired through fatigue, illness, or any other cause—making both driver and trucking company liable when fatigued driving causes accidents. Section 392.4 prohibits drug use, § 392.5 prohibits alcohol use within 4 hours before duty or while on duty, and § 392.82 prohibits hand-held mobile phone use while driving.

Part 393: Parts and Accessories for Safe Operation

This part establishes equipment and cargo securement standards. Cargo must be contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent leaking, spilling, blowing, or falling; shifting that affects vehicle stability; and blocking the driver’s view. Performance criteria require cargo securement systems to withstand 0.8 g deceleration forward, 0.5 g acceleration rearward, 0.5 g lateral, and at least 20% of cargo weight downward.

Brake requirements under §§ 393.40-55 mandate properly functioning service brakes on all wheels, parking/emergency brake system, and air brake systems meeting specific requirements. Lighting requirements under §§ 393.11-26 include headlamps, tail lamps, stop lamps, clearance and side marker lamps, reflectors, and turn signal lamps.

Part 395: Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations

These regulations prevent driver fatigue by limiting driving time and requiring rest. For property-carrying drivers, the 11-hour driving limit prohibits driving more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty. The 14-hour duty window prohibits driving beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty. The 30-minute break rule requires a break after 8 cumulative hours of driving. The 60/70-hour weekly limit prohibits driving after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days, with a 34-hour restart option.

Since December 18, 2017, most CMV drivers must use Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) that automatically record driving time, synchronize with vehicle engine, cannot be altered after the fact, and record GPS location, speed, and engine hours. This data proves exactly how long the driver was on duty, whether breaks were taken, speed before and during the accident, GPS location history, and any HOS violations. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this data before it’s overwritten.

Part 396: Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

This part ensures CMVs are maintained in safe operating condition. Section 396.3 requires systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance of all vehicles subject to carrier control. Drivers must conduct pre-trip inspections before driving and be satisfied the CMV is in safe operating condition, reviewing the last driver vehicle inspection report if defects were noted.

Post-trip reports under § 396.11 require written reports on vehicle condition covering service brakes, parking brake, steering mechanism, lighting devices and reflectors, tires, horn, windshield wipers, rear vision mirrors, coupling devices, wheels and rims, and emergency equipment. Annual inspections under § 396.17 require comprehensive inspection covering 16+ systems with inspection decal displayed and records retained for 14 months.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

In 18-wheeler accident cases, evidence disappears fast. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act quickly, critical evidence will be lost forever.

Critical Timelines

The Spoliation Letter

A spoliation letter is a formal legal notice sent to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties demanding preservation of all evidence related to the accident. This letter puts defendants on legal notice of their preservation obligation, creates serious consequences if evidence is destroyed, and can result in courts imposing sanctions, adverse inferences, or even default judgment for spoliation.

At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained. We don’t wait.

What Our Spoliation Letter Demands

Electronic Data: Engine Control Module (ECM) / Electronic Control Unit (ECU) data, Event Data Recorder (EDR) data, Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records, GPS and telematics data, dashcam and forward-facing camera footage, dispatch communications and messaging, cell phone records and text messages, and Qualcomm or fleet management system data.

Driver Records: Complete Driver Qualification File, employment application and resume, background check and driving record, medical certification and exam records, drug and alcohol test results, training records and certifications, previous accident and violation history, and performance reviews and disciplinary records.

Vehicle Records: Maintenance and repair records, inspection reports, out-of-service orders and repairs, tire records and replacement history, brake inspection and adjustment records, and parts purchase and installation records.

Company Records: Hours of service records for 6 months prior, dispatch logs and trip records, bills of lading and cargo documentation, insurance policies, safety policies and procedures, training curricula, and hiring and supervision policies.

Catastrophic Injuries from 18-Wheeler Accidents

The physics of 18-wheeler accidents make catastrophic injuries the norm, not the exception. At Attorney911, we’ve seen the devastating impact these injuries have on victims and their families. We’ve also seen how proper legal representation can secure the resources needed for the best possible recovery.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In 18-wheeler accidents, the extreme forces cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull. Severity ranges from mild concussion to severe injury with extended coma and permanent cognitive impairment.

Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, memory loss, confusion, difficulty concentrating, mood changes, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, sensory problems, and speech difficulties. Long-term consequences can include permanent cognitive impairment, inability to work, need for ongoing care and supervision, increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s, and depression and emotional disorders.

Our firm has recovered over $5 million for traumatic brain injury victims. These cases require extensive medical documentation, expert testimony, and careful calculation of lifetime care costs.

Spinal Cord Injury

Damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis. Types include paraplegia (loss of function below the waist), quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs), incomplete injury (some nerve function remains), and complete injury (no nerve function below injury).

Higher injuries affect more body functions, with C1-C4 injuries potentially requiring ventilator support. Lifetime care costs range from $1.1 million for paraplegia to $5 million or more for quadriplegia—and these figures represent direct medical costs only, not lost wages, pain and suffering, or loss of quality of life.

Amputation

Amputation injuries occur when limbs are severed at the scene due to crash forces or when damage is so severe that surgical removal is required. Common in 18-wheeler accidents due to crushing forces and entrapment requiring amputation for extraction.

Ongoing medical needs include initial surgery and hospitalization, prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000+ per prosthetic), replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime, physical therapy and rehabilitation, occupational therapy, and psychological counseling. Impact on life includes permanent disability, career limitations, phantom limb pain, body image and psychological trauma, need for home modifications, and dependency on others.

Our firm secured $3.8 million for a client who suffered partial leg amputation after a car accident followed by medical complications. These cases require proving the full chain of causation and calculating lifetime prosthetic and care costs.

Severe Burns

Burns in 18-wheeler accidents result from fuel tank rupture and fire, hazmat cargo spills and ignition, electrical fires, friction burns from road contact, and chemical burns from hazmat exposure. Classification ranges from first degree (epidermis only) to fourth degree (through skin to muscle/bone).

Long-term consequences include permanent scarring and disfigurement, multiple reconstructive surgeries, skin graft procedures, chronic pain, infection risks, and psychological trauma.

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills, surviving family members may bring wrongful death claims. In Georgia, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of death. Potential damages include lost future income and benefits, loss of consortium, mental anguish and emotional suffering, funeral and burial expenses, medical expenses before death, and punitive damages for gross negligence.

Our firm has recovered millions for Texas families in fatal 18-wheeler accidents. These cases require immediate investigation to preserve evidence and build the strongest possible case.

Georgia Law: What Bulloch County Victims Need to Know

Statute of Limitations

In Georgia, you have two years from the date of your trucking accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the two-year period runs from the date of death. This is shorter than some states and longer than others, but the message is the same: waiting is dangerous.

Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. The trucking company is building their defense right now. We recommend contacting an attorney within days, not months.

Comparative Negligence

Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule with a 50% bar. This means you can recover damages as long as you are not 50% or more at fault for the accident. However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, if you are found 20% at fault and your damages total $500,000, you would recover $400,000 (80% of the total). But if you are found 50% at fault, you recover nothing. This makes thorough investigation and strong evidence critical—trucking companies will try to shift blame to minimize their exposure.

Damage Caps

Unlike some states, Georgia does not cap compensatory damages in personal injury cases. This means your full economic damages (medical bills, lost wages, future care) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, mental anguish) are recoverable without arbitrary limits.

However, Georgia does have a $250,000 cap on punitive damages in most personal injury cases, with exceptions for intentional conduct and certain other circumstances. Punitive damages are awarded to punish defendants for gross negligence or willful misconduct, not to compensate plaintiffs.

The Attorney911 Advantage: Why Bulloch County Victims Choose Us

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s admitted to federal court in the Southern District of Texas, has litigated against Fortune 500 corporations including BP in the Texas City Refinery explosion case, and has recovered multi-million dollar settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes. When an 80,000-pound truck changes your life forever, you need more than a lawyer—you need a fighter with proven results.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Your Side

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He watched adjusters minimize claims. He saw how they train their people to lowball victims. Now he exposes those tactics and uses his insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation. When you call Attorney911, you’re getting a team that includes someone who knows exactly how the trucking company’s insurance company will try to beat you—and exactly how to stop them.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our track record speaks for itself. We’ve recovered over $50 million for clients across all practice areas. Specific trucking and catastrophic injury results include:

• $5+ million for a traumatic brain injury victim struck by a falling log
• $3.8+ million for a client who suffered partial leg amputation after a car accident followed by medical complications
• $2.5+ million for a commercial truck crash recovery
• $2+ million for a maritime back injury under the Jones Act
• Millions recovered in multiple wrongful death trucking cases

We’re currently litigating a $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi fraternity for hazing injuries—demonstrating our willingness to take on powerful institutions and complex litigation.

Three Office Locations Serving Georgia and Beyond

With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas, we serve trucking accident victims throughout the Southeast and beyond. Our federal court admission means we can handle interstate trucking cases wherever they occur. For Bulloch County victims, we offer remote consultations and travel to Georgia for your case when needed. Distance is never a barrier to getting the representation you deserve.

24/7 Availability

Trucking accidents don’t happen on business hours. That’s why we’re available 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911. When you call, you get a real person who understands the urgency of your situation. We answer trucking accident calls immediately because we know that every hour matters for evidence preservation.

Contingency Fee—No Fee Unless We Win

You pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all investigation expenses. Zero upfront costs. Our standard contingency fee is 33.33% pre-trial and 40% if trial is necessary. This means you can afford the same quality of representation that the trucking company has—without any financial risk to you.

Hablamos Español

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. For Bulloch County’s Hispanic community, this means clear communication and cultural understanding throughout your case. Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in Bulloch County

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Bulloch County, take these steps immediately if you’re able:

Call 911 and report the accident. Emergency responders will document the scene and provide medical assistance. The police report will be crucial evidence in your case.

Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Bulloch County hospitals and trauma centers can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case.

Document the scene with photos and video if possible. Photograph all vehicles involved, damage close-ups, wide scene shots, street signs, traffic signals, road conditions, weather conditions, your injuries, and witnesses. Take more photos than you think you need—you can always delete extras later, but you can’t go back and photograph a scene that’s been cleared.

Get the trucking company name, DOT number, and driver information. The DOT number on the truck door is critical for identifying the carrier and accessing their safety record. Get the driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information.

Collect witness contact information. Independent witnesses can corroborate your version of events. Get names, phone numbers, and email addresses at the scene. Memories fade—independent witness testimony can be the key to proving your case.

Do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests.

Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately. Critical evidence in trucking cases disappears quickly. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. The trucking company is building their defense right now. At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained to preserve evidence before it’s lost forever.

Frequently Asked Questions About 18-Wheeler Accidents in Bulloch County

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Bulloch County?

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Bulloch County, call 911 and report the accident, seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor, document the scene with photos and video if possible, get the trucking company name DOT number and driver information, collect witness contact information, do NOT give recorded statements to any insurance company, and call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the trucking company is building their defense right now.

Should I go to the hospital after a truck accident even if I feel okay?

YES. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Bulloch County hospitals and trauma centers can identify injuries that will become critical evidence in your case. Delaying treatment also gives insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

What information should I collect at the truck accident scene in Bulloch County?

Document everything possible: truck and trailer license plates, DOT number on truck door, trucking company name and logo, driver’s name CDL number and contact info, photos of all vehicle damage, photos of accident scene road conditions and skid marks, photos of your injuries, witness names and phone numbers, and responding officer’s name and badge number.

Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?

NO. Do not give any recorded statements. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters are trained to protect the trucking company’s interests.

How quickly should I contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney in Bulloch County?

IMMEDIATELY—within 24-48 hours if possible. Critical evidence in trucking cases can be destroyed or overwritten quickly. We send spoliation letters within hours of being retained to preserve this evidence before it’s lost forever.

What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?

A spoliation letter is a formal legal notice demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the accident. This includes ECM/black box data, ELD logs, maintenance records, driver files, and more. Sending this letter immediately puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will result in serious legal consequences.

Who can I sue after an 18-wheeler accident in Bulloch County?

Multiple parties may be liable: the truck driver, the trucking company/motor carrier, the cargo owner or shipper, the company that loaded the cargo, truck or parts manufacturers, maintenance companies, freight brokers, the truck owner if different from carrier, and government entities for road defects. We investigate every possible defendant to maximize your recovery.

Is the trucking company responsible even if the driver caused the accident?

Usually YES. Under respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for negligent hiring, negligent training, negligent supervision, negligent maintenance, and negligent scheduling.

What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?

Georgia uses a modified comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation as long as you are not 50% or more at fault. Our job is to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence, and prove what really happened. Drivers often lie to protect their jobs—the data tells the true story.

What is a truck’s “black box” and how does it help my case?

Commercial trucks have Electronic Control Modules (ECM) and Event Data Recorders (EDR) that record operational data. This data shows speed before and during the crash, brake application timing, engine RPM and throttle position, whether cruise control was engaged, and GPS location. This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened.

What is an ELD and why is it important?

Electronic Logging Devices are federally mandated devices that record driver hours of service. ELD data proves whether the driver violated federal rest requirements and was driving while fatigued. Hours of service violations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents.

How long does the trucking company keep black box and ELD data?

ECM data can be overwritten within 30 days or with new driving events. FMCSA only requires 6 months retention for ELD data. This is why we send spoliation letters immediately—once we notify them of litigation, they must preserve everything.

What records should my attorney get from the trucking company?

We pursue ECM/black box data, ELD records, Driver Qualification File, maintenance records, inspection reports, dispatch logs, drug and alcohol test results, training records, cell phone records, insurance policies, and the physical truck and trailer.

Can the trucking company destroy evidence?

Once they’re on notice of potential litigation, destroying evidence is spoliation—a serious legal violation. Courts can instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable, impose monetary sanctions, or even enter default judgment in extreme cases.

What are hours of service regulations and how do violations cause accidents?

FMCSA regulations limit how long truck drivers can operate: maximum 11 hours driving after 10 hours off, cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty, 30-minute break required after 8 hours driving, and 60/70 hour weekly limits. Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes.

What FMCSA regulations are most commonly violated in accidents?

The top violations we find are hours of service violations, false log entries, brake system deficiencies, cargo securement failures, unqualified drivers, drug and alcohol violations, mobile phone use, failure to inspect vehicles, improper lighting, and negligent hiring.

What is a Driver Qualification File and why does it matter?

FMCSA requires trucking companies to maintain a file for every driver containing employment application, driving record check, previous employer verification, medical certification, drug test results, and training documentation. Missing or incomplete files prove negligent hiring.

How do pre-trip inspections relate to my accident case?

Drivers must inspect their trucks before every trip. If they failed to conduct inspections or ignored known defects—bad brakes, worn tires, lighting problems—both the driver and company may be liable for negligence.

What injuries are common in 18-wheeler accidents in Bulloch County?

Due to the massive size and weight disparity, trucking accidents often cause catastrophic injuries: traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injuries and paralysis, amputations, severe burns, internal organ damage, multiple fractures, and wrongful death.

How much are 18-wheeler accident cases worth in Bulloch County?

Case values depend on severity of injuries, medical expenses past and future, lost income and earning capacity, pain and suffering, degree of defendant’s negligence, and insurance coverage available. Trucking companies carry higher insurance ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.

What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident in Bulloch County?

Georgia allows wrongful death claims by surviving family members. You may recover lost future income, loss of companionship and guidance, mental anguish, funeral expenses, and punitive damages if gross negligence. Time limits apply—contact us immediately to protect your rights.

How long do I have to file an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit in Bulloch County?

The statute of limitations in Georgia is two years from the date of your accident. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.

How long do trucking accident cases take to resolve?

Timelines vary: simple cases with clear liability may resolve in 6-12 months, complex cases with multiple parties in 1-3 years, and cases that go to trial in 2-4 years. We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

Will my trucking accident case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court—and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys. We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way if necessary.

Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?

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.

How much insurance do trucking companies carry?

Federal law requires minimum liability coverage of $750,000 for non-hazardous freight, $1,000,000 for oil and large equipment, and $5,000,000 for hazardous materials. Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.

What if multiple insurance policies apply to my accident?

Trucking cases often involve multiple policies: motor carrier’s liability policy, trailer interchange coverage, cargo insurance, owner-operator’s policy, and excess/umbrella coverage. We identify all available coverage to maximize your recovery.

Will the trucking company’s insurance try to settle quickly?

Often yes—and that’s a red flag. Quick settlement offers are designed to pay you far less than your case is worth before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

Call Attorney911 Today: Your Fight Starts Now

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Bulloch County, Georgia, you don’t have to face the trucking company alone. You don’t have to accept their lowball settlement. You don’t have to let them destroy evidence and build a defense while you struggle to recover.

At Attorney911, we fight for trucking accident victims. Ralph Manginello has spent over 25 years taking on trucking companies and winning. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows their playbook. We’ve recovered multi-million dollar settlements for families just like yours.

The clock is already ticking. Evidence in your case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget. The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect them. What are you doing?

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. Free consultation. No fee unless we win. 24/7 availability. One number to remember: 1-888-ATTY-911.

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

Your fight starts with one call. We answer. We fight. We win.